Rome City Schools
High School Handbook
ATTENDANCE
Regular attendance is necessary for success in school. Chronic absenteeism and excessive tardies will be harmful to a student’s academic and social progress at Rome High School (RHS). We are preparing students for college and work. Excellent attendance habits are necessary in both realms to be successful.
NOTE: Failure to follow the attendance procedures can result in disciplinary actions set by the administration. Excessive absences and tardies will also be turned over to the Rome City Schools (RCS) social worker for investigation. See Tardy to School section. Also see the Skipping Class section.
Excused absences are for the following reasons: personal illness, death or illness in the immediate family (immediate family is interpreted to mean parents, siblings, children, grandparents, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, or legal guardian), religious holidays, government-mandated absences, conditions which render attendance impossible or hazardous to health and safety, military service tests and physical examination, Georgia General Assembly page service, and participation in educational activities outlined below: Educational trips must meet the following five criteria: student accompanied by parent or guardian; written plan showing educational merit submitted to the principal five days in advance; list of educational activities, objectives, and project description to be turned in to the principal upon return to school; limit of five days; all work to be made up. No educational absences are granted immediately prior to or during exams. Educational absence forms may be picked up in the front office and must be submitted to the principal five days in advance of desired absence(s) date(s).
Parent and/or Physicians’ notes should be turned in within three days after an absence—preferably, the first day a student returns to school so that teachers will have approval to assign make-up work.
A student returning to school after an absence is to bring a written excuse signed by a parent/guardian telling why the student was absent and listing a phone number for verification. Students are to turn in excuses to the attendance clerk.
It is the student’s responsibility to arrange with each teacher for make-up of work missed during an absence. Upon returning, students have 3 school days to make arrangements to complete missing work. A student whose parent or legal guardian is in military service in the U.S. armed forces or National Guard and such parent has been called to duty for or is on leave from overseas deployment to a combat zone or combat support posting will be granted up to five days of excused absences per school year to visit with his or her parent prior to the parent’s deployment or during the parent’s leave.
According to Georgia State Law (40-5-22; 20-2-701) (Attendance and Driver’s License):
ACCIDENTS
In case of an accident, report the incident immediately to the teacher or coach if the injury occurs in the classroom or athletic program. If medical attention is required, parents will be notified as soon as possible. Staff members are to fill out an accident report the day an accident occurs. The school cannot assume any liabilities for injuries.
ACTIVITIES
Activities and sports events are for the benefit of students enrolled at RHS. Any student participating in any school activity must be in attendance one-half of the school day on the day of the activity (verified medical appointments excluded). One-half day is the equivalent of two blocks. Students who are enrolled at the Rome Transitional Academy (RTA), who have dropped out of school, or who are (OSS) suspended or placed in in-school suspension (ISS) cannot attend RHS-sponsored activities.
AFTER SCHOOL
Students who are waiting for buses/cars should report to the designated area. Students involved in after-school activities are to stay in the designated area with supervision when in the building and leave the campus as soon as they are dismissed.
ASSEMBLIES AND PEP RALLIES
At all times behavior should be refined and courteous—no whistling, shouting, or unusual noises. “Booing” will NOT be tolerated at RHS pep rallies and assemblies. Teachers will assign detention for inappropriate behavior during assemblies/pep rallies, etc. Never leave valuables in classrooms during any type of program—the school is not responsible for lost or stolen articles.
ARRIVAL TO SCHOOL
Students should not arrive on campus before 7:30 a.m. unless a teacher or sponsor has a planned activity and issued an activity pass. Students are not allowed to sit in their vehicle, leave or walk around once they arrive on campus. Students should exit the building by 3:30 p.m. each day unless under the direct supervision of a staff member. Students should leave campus within 15 minutes of their last supervised activity of the day. Students are expected to be in class before 8: 30 a.m. The morning tardy warning bell rings at 8:25 a.m. each morning. During morning a.m. entry, all students must enter the building through the Commons/Gym entrance and go through the Evolv system. Any student entering school after 8:30 a.m. is considered tardy and must have a pass from administration from 8:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m. Any student arriving after 9:00 a.m. must report to the front office to sign in and receive a pass to class.AUTOMOBILES/PARKING
The campus speed limit is 10 mph. Students must have valid parking tags on any vehicle parked on campus and must park in assigned reserved spaces. Parking tags will be reserved online during the summer and paid for at the Back to School Extravaganza. After the summer, parking tags can be purchased in the designated office for $50 for the school year. Students may purchase parking tags from 8:00 a.m. - 8:25 a.m. If a car is parked in your space, write down the tag number and description and turn this information into the SRO or an administrator. Cars parked illegally, or in another’s parking space, are subject to be towed or booted. Students are to leave vehicles immediately upon arrival on the school’s campus and report to designated areas.
No one is to enter the parking lot at any time without permission from an administrator. The privilege of parking on school property may be revoked at the discretion of school authorities. Certain discipline infractions such as tardies, leaving campus without permission, remaining in a vehicle before school, excessive absences, excessive discipline referrals, and/or being in the parking lot without permission could result in the loss of parking privileges. All cars on campus are subject to routine, unannounced inspections as a condition of permitting the car to be on campus. Speeding and/or reckless driving will result in loss of parking privileges and/or a traffic citation from Rome City Police. Once students arrive on campus, they are under the jurisdiction of RHS Code of Conduct and may not leave campus for any reason without following proper check-out procedures. RHS is not liable for any damages to cars parked on school property.
No one is to have a car on campus illegally without proper authorization under any circumstances between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Unauthorized vehicles will be towed at the owner's expense.
BEFORE SCHOOL
Students are NOT to be in the halls prior to the first bell, unless they have a pass from their teacher. Faculty members are on duty in the gym, commons, and hallways - there is to be no loitering in the building. Students must have a teacher’s written permission slip to go to classrooms of the media center - exceptions must be approved by the teacher on duty in the commons. No food is allowed to leave the commons area. Food will not be taken out of the cafeteria. We are reducing the amount of spills and trash in our hallways.
BULLYING
Any student, parent, or guardian should immediately report incidents of bullying to the principal or designee. Any teacher or other school employee who believes he or she has reliable information that would lead a reasonable person to suspect that someone is a target of bullying should immediately report it to the school principal or designee.
Individuals can rely on staff to promptly investigate each complaint of bullying in a timely and confidential manner in order to determine if bullying has occurred.
BUS BEHAVIOR AND BUS PASSES
Students are to remain seated at all times; no eating or drinking; or other electronic devices without the bus driver’s permission; no loud noise, shouting, etc. Windows are to remain closed at all times. The bus drivers have the authority to take whatever action necessary to maintain safety and control on the bus including assigning seats and writing disciplinary referrals. All school rules apply on school buses and at school bus stops. Surveillance cameras are recording student behavior at all times.
All RHS students who ride a bus to and/or from school will be required to have and show school I.D. for the current school year.
Students who need to ride a different bus than the one assigned must bring in a parent/guardian note to the assistant principal’s office before school or during lunch. Calls or texts to the student’s cell phone will not be acceptable permission. Parents/guardians may call the school for emergency changes, but we will not call a parent/guardian based on a student’s request. Students will not be allowed out of class to make bus changes.
PERSONAL ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Students and faculty are allowed to bring to school and use their own electronic devices according to BOE policies and regulations. Use of electronic devices is a privilege subject to the discretion of the teacher and school administration. Before use is permitted, students and faculty must sign an Acceptable Use Agreement.
ROME USAGE PROCEDURES
When approved by the administration, students are allowed to use their own electronic devices before school prior to the first bell. Students may also use personal devices during class change, during lunch, and after school in the Commons and Media Center.
When students enter the classroom, no cell phones will be used. All devices (including headphones, earbuds, and other accessories) are to be turned off or on silent, are to be put away out of sight, and are not to be used during the class.
CHECKING IN OR OUT OF SCHOOL
Students are to check-in at the attendance office, which is located in the front office when arriving at school any time after 9:00 a.m. Except in cases of doctors’ appointments or court appearances, late arrivals will be treated as tardies. A student will only be allowed to be checked out by a parent, or guardian. Checking in or out for unexcused reasons results in a referral to administration. If checking out for medical reasons, students are to bring a doctor’s note when they return to school. Altered or forged notes of any kind will result in disciplinary action.
CODE OF CONDUCT
The Rome City Schools Code of Conduct can be found on the Rome High School website at www.romehighwolves.net and toward the front of this agenda.
COLLEGE VISITATION DAYS
Juniors and seniors may visit a college if the College Day Form (available in the counseling office) is completed and approved three school days in advance by the principal or designee. This will count as an excused absence. College visits are limited to two days as stated in Rome City Schools Board Policy (JB); all work must be made up. We encourage students to visit colleges on teacher in-service days and student holidays. College days may not be taken in May.
CONDUCT IN THE HALLS
Students should walk on the right side of the halls. No running; no loud talking; no pushing; no loitering between classes; no congregating in the halls during class change. No public displays of affection at school; students should demonstrate respect and courtesy to others and themselves.
COUNSELING
The school counseling program is designed to help each individual student achieve his/her highest growth mentally, emotionally, and socially. School counselors help new students adjust to teachers and friends in a different setting; schedule individual conferences whenever a student, parent, teacher, or administrator deems it necessary; students must have written permission from their classroom teacher to go to the counseling office during class time. Parents may make appointments to see the counselors or schedule conferences with teachers by contacting the counseling office at (706) 235-9653.
DANCE RULES
DELIVERIES
No flowers, balloons, gifts, or food will be accepted by RHS for delivery to students at any time. This includes food delivery companies such as DoorDash and Uber Eats. Any food ordered and delivered to the school will be confiscated and thrown away. If a student is found picking up food outside of the school, the student will be punished for being in an unauthorized area.
DRESS CODE
The purpose of the Rome High School Dress Code is:
In order to promote a positive and safe learning environment, all students need to follow these guidelines:
ALL CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES:
Shirts:
Pants, Shorts, and Skirts:
All bottoms must be mid-thigh or below in length when standing. All bottoms must be worn at the waist level without exposing undergarments.
Headwear:
Shoes:
Enforcement Procedures:
DRIVER’S/LEARNER’S LICENSE
A certificate of attendance is required for all students under the age of 18 in order to get a learner’s and/ or driver’s license. Confirmation that a student has successfully completed the Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program (ADAP) is also required for a student to receive his/her driver’s license. Each form requires a 24-hour turnaround time and can be requested in the counseling office. The certificates of attendance are good for only 30 days from the date they are notarized and cost $5.00.
DUAL ENROLLMENT PROGRAM (DE)
Student could receive both postsecondary credit from an eligible institution and high school Carnegie unit for
approved courses.
Enrollment/Scheduling Procedures
Check with your high school and postsecondary institution for deadlines each semester.
For more information see your school counselor, student support coordinator, and/or gafutures.org
EARLY GRADUATES
The Rome City Board of Education authorizes Rome High School students (including those at the Phoenix Learning Center) to graduate early when certain conditions are met. In order to graduate early, a student must fulfill the following requirements:
Students and parents should also review the notifications on the Early Graduation Application and consult with the appropriate counselor, administrator, college and others before making this decision.
The Superintendent or designee is authorized to develop any administrative regulations or procedures that may be needed to implement this policy.
EMERGENCY DRILLS
Emergency drills are held monthly. Instructions are posted in each classroom indicating how to leave the building; listen to teachers’ instructions and the intercom. Walk quietly and quickly to designated areas.
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Students may participate in extracurricular activities governed by the Georgia High School Association if they pass two and a half credit courses the previous semester and are on track for graduation. Coach Chris Boden is the school’s gender equity representative.
FEES OR FINES
RCS retains the right to charge students reasonable fees for lost, damaged, or abused school system property; sanctions permitted by law for failure to pay include withholding report cards, diplomas, or certificates of progress. This does not affect legal property rights of students; meetings to discuss fines and payment arrangements are welcomed. All fees must be paid before a student is allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony. If fees are not paid for a week before graduation practice, the student will not be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony.
GEORGIA ALTERNATE DIPLOMA
The Alternate Diploma is the document awarded to students with the most significant cognitive disabilities who were assessed using the alternate assessment aligned to alternate academic achievement standards. While this diploma is standards-based and aligned with the state requirements for the Regular High School Diploma, it is not a Regular High School Diploma. Therefore, an Alternate Diploma does not terminate Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP). The requirements for the Alternate Diploma are the same requirements these students currently meet to obtain a Regular Diploma. o For postsecondary and transition opportunities, many of those institutions will still allow it for transition opportunities and, like with the Regular Diploma, there would be admissions criteria for postsecondary institutions.
For more information visit
https://www.gadoe.org/External-Affairs-and-Policy/communications/Documents/ESSA%20Alternate%20Diploma%20%E2%80%93%20Frequently%20Asked%20Questions.pdf
GRADING POLICY
Grades are determined solely on the basis of achievement of stated learning objectives and performance in the subject. The criteria for evaluation include but are not limited to, written and oral classroom performance, homework assignments, scores achieved on tests, and completion of assignments for enrichment, acceleration, exploration, research, or extra practice. Learning objectives may legitimately include such things as following directions, proper format, and other procedural considerations.
The grading scale is as follows:
A = 90 - 100
B = 80 - 89
C = 70 - 79
F = 69 and below
Course Final Grade | Regular Education Courses | All Courses Designated As “Honors”, Including Dual-Enrollment Courses Taking Place At Rome High School Or At Post-Secondary Institutions That Appear On Student Transcripts | All Courses Designated As “Ap” Including Those With Co-Dual Enrollment Titles |
90-100 (A) | 4.0 GPA Points | 4.5 GPA Points | 5.0 GPA Points |
80-89 (B) | 3.0 GPA Points | 3.5 GPA Points | 4.0 GPA Points |
70-79 (C) | 2.0 GPA Points | 2.5 GPA Points | 3.0 GPA Points |
0-69 (F) | 0 GPA Points | 0 GPA Points | 0 GPA Points |
These calculations will be used for class ranking purposes only, the “weighted” GPA calculations will not count towards HOPE, NCAA or other purposes.
If a student has incomplete work at the end of the semester, a zero will be given for the work and the final average will be computed. If prior administrative approval was given for the incomplete work, the grade will be changed when and if the work is completed (must be made up within 10 school days).
HOMECOMING AND PROM CANDIDATES
In order to be considered as a candidate for either the homecoming court or Prom King/Queen, students must meet the following criteria:
Academic: Student can have no failures on the previous report card/progress report and meet eligibility requirements as set forth by the Georgia High School Association.
Attendance: Student must be in compliance with Rome City School Board Policy JB regarding school attendance.
Discipline: Student can have no serious discipline infractions during their entire high school career. Freshmen students can have no serious discipline infraction during their 8th-grade year.
HONOR GRADUATES
RHS honor graduates will be those who have maintained a 3.5 or above grade point average (GPA) in a regular education diploma program in grades 9-12 and have met all other requirements for a regular education diploma. A GPA will not be rounded up to achieve a 3.5 average. Honor graduates are determined in January of the graduating year.
IDs
Each student will be required to wear an ID around their neck. The first ID is at no cost to students. These IDs must be worn at all times and to ride the bus. Students who lose their IDs must purchase a replacement. These IDs enable students the ability to scan at lunch, ride the bus, and enter our school in relation to RHS’s safety procedures.
ILLNESS AT SCHOOL
If students become ill after they have come to school, they should get permission from their teacher to go to the nurse. The nurse will determine if the student needs to go home and contact the parent.
IMMUNIZATIONS
Georgia law requires that students have an immunization form from the county health department stating that shots are up to date. If this form is not filed with the office by the required deadline, students cannot continue to attend school.
INSURANCE
School insurance is available to all students at a nominal price. School day and 24-hour coverages are available. All students participating in any extracurricular activity governed by the Georgia High School Association must be covered by school insurance, or a signed waiver must be on file stating that the parent has an insurance policy that covers the student and releases the school of all responsibility in case of accident or injury.
LOCKERS
Lockers with locks are available and may be rented for $10 for the school year. This fee covers the cost of changing the combinations each year for security reasons. Lockers may be rented from administration or administrative assistant if students did not get a locker during orientation. Students are not permitted to share lockers because they are not designed to accommodate more than one student’s belongings. Students will be held responsible for the repair cost of the lockers if they are damaged. The school reserves the right to open and inspect any of the school lockers at any time. Make sure the lock and door of your locker are operating properly. If they are not, notify the office as soon as possible. Exercise care in sharing your locker combination with other students. RHS will not assume responsibility for items stolen from lockers. We cannot assure students that stolen items will be found or replaced.
LUNCH PROGRAM
Our lunchroom staff prepares delicious and nutritious meals for our students each school day. All students may eat breakfast free in the commons area. Students may eat a school lunch or bring a lunch from home; both, however, should be eaten in the commons. Restaurant food or fast food is not allowed in the school. This includes any food delivered by a food delivery service.
MEDIA
Students are encouraged to use the media center for reference work and for other media businesses. Students must present a media center pass from a teacher when coming from class. Media center hours are from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. each school day. No food or drinks are to be taken into the media center. Books can be checked out for two weeks, and reference and reserve books can be checked out overnight. Overdue fines will be assessed for items turned in late.
MEDICINE
Prescription medicine with a doctor’s note and over-the-counter medicines with a parent note should be dispensed by the nurse. Students are not to give other students medicine of any kind (this includes ALL over-the-counter medications). All medications will be properly discarded at the end of the school year if the student and/or parent have not picked up the medication by the last day of class.
MORNING PROCEDURE
All students are encouraged to participate in the morning ceremony which includes the National Anthem or the Alma Mater, a moment of silence, and the Pledge of Allegiance.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY (NHS)
To be eligible for induction into the RHS chapter of NHS, a student will be considered for membership based on the four traits of NHS: scholarship, service, leadership, and character. To initially qualify for membership, the student must be in at least the 10th grade, must have obtained a minimum GPA of 93, and must be on track to earn a college preparatory diploma. Chronic ISS/OSS are grounds for dismissal or refusal of entry. Lastly, students sent to RTA since entering high school are ineligible. Eligible students will then complete NHS applications to be reviewed by the NHS Faculty Council. The Faculty Council will evaluate eligible students based on service, leadership, and character. The Faculty Council, along with the NHS adviser, makes the final selection for NHS members.
PROMOTION REQUIREMENTS
Specific course requirements are outlined in the RHS Diploma Requirements Handbook. Ask your school counselor about graduation requirements. A unit is equivalent to successful completion of one full year in a course or a combination of two-semester courses. Rome High’s promotion requirements are as follows:
9th to 10th Grade Five (5) Carnegie units required
10th to 11th Grade Eleven (11) Carnegie units required
11th to 12th Grade Seventeen (17) Carnegie units required and the ability to graduate at the end of
the school year, based on previous coursework
Graduation Twenty-three (23) Carnegie units for freshmen entering the 2008-2009 school
year and thereafter
Beginning with the graduating class of 2011, only students who meet all state and local requirements and are awarded either a regular education or Georgia Alternate diploma will be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony.
PROGRESS REPORTS AND REPORT CARDS
Progress reports are issued every 4 ½ weeks. Students receive report cards at the end of each nine weeks. The final grade report will be available to parents and students digitally via the Infinite Campus website (Parent Portal) or application. Those who wish to have a printed report may pick one up from the RHS front office.
SCHEDULE CHANGES
Schedule changes will not be allowed unless a scheduling error has been made. Counselors will review schedules and request corrections when necessary.
SEARCH AND SEIZURE
According to Georgia laws and Board of Education policy, schools have access to student lockers, automobiles, and personal belongings while on the school campus when there is reason to suspect that the welfare of students and other personnel may be threatened. The search shall be made in the presence of at least one witness, except in emergency situations or if dangerous or illegal materials are in plain view. Discovery of dangerous or illegal materials shall be reported to the proper authorities. Delegated search officials are the principal, assistant principals, school resource officer (during school hours and/or any function under school jurisdiction), and certified employees who are responsible for students who are away from school before, during, or after regular school hours.
SELECTIVE SERVICE REGISTRATION
The law requires that all males age 18 register for the Selective Service. Information on how to register may be obtained in the guidance offices.
SOCIAL EVENTS
Social events are primarily for the benefit of RHS. The school reserves the right to refuse admittance to any school event. Students who wish to invite non-students to dances and other social events at RHS must sign up the date with the sponsoring advisor two weeks before the event. All dates must adhere to RHS policies.
STUDENT DISAGREEMENTS
Students are to confer with a counselor or behavioral specialist and attempt to use peer mediation to resolve differences before they escalate into more serious situations. Students may also contact the assistant principals or the school resource officer.
STUDENT WELFARE/CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT/HOMELESSNESS
Georgia law requires that school personnel report all cases of suspected child abuse to the Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS). The law requires the reporting of injuries or neglect of minors, provides immunity for those reporting in good faith, and provides a penalty for violation of the law. Suspected cases are referred to the counselor who will contact DFCS.
Students experiencing homelessness enrolled in high school classes shall still be awarded full or partial credit on course work satisfactorily completed while attending a prior school when attendance/enrollment in the school was disrupted due to their homeless status. Students experiencing homelessness shall not be deprived of equal access to support services or coursework credit due to any presented barriers related to their homelessness.
TARDY TO SCHOOL
A student who is tardy to school after 9:00 a.m. must report to the front office, sign in, and obtain an office pass. Teachers will not admit students who are late to their first class of the day without a pass from administration or front office. Tardy students who present a written note from a parent MUST include a phone number so that parents can be contacted. ONLY THREE (3) PARENT EXCUSES FOR TARDINESS MAY BE ACCEPTED IN A SEMESTER.
Excused tardies are determined using the same guidelines set by the State Board of Education for absences. Car problems, oversleeping, and other personal reasons WILL NOT be accepted as excused.
CONSEQUENCES FOR TARDIES TO SCHOOL
Teachers and the attendance clerk will designate in IC if the tardy is excused or unexcused. Unexcused tardies to school in a semester per course period will be handled as follows:
1st Tardy: Warning
2nd Tardy: Warning and Parent contact by the teacher
3rd Tardy: Parent contact and Counselor referral
4th Tardy: Administrative Conference/Tardy intervention, Parent Conference, Loss of Privilege Stage 1
5th Tardy: ½ Day Success Center and Social Work Referral completed by Counselor
6th Tardy: Warning with Administrator Conference
7th Tardy: 1 Full Day ISS and Loss of Privilege Stage 2
8th Tardy: 1 Full Day ISS and Loss of Privilege Stage 3
9th Tardy: 1 Day OSS
10th Tardy: Administrative Action
TUITION STUDENTS
All students who live outside the city of Rome and have been approved to attend RHS must pay tuition. Poor academic performance or failure to adhere to the RHS disciplinary code could result in the loss of the right to attend RHS.
VALEDICTORIAN/SALUTATORIAN
Valedictorian and Salutatorian will be determined by RCS Board policy which states:
In order to be eligible to be named valedictorian or salutatorian of his or her graduating class, a student must attend classes at Rome High School for at least two (2) semesters of high school and must be enrolled at Rome High School for four (4) consecutive semesters his or her junior and senior years.
The valedictorian shall be the candidate for graduation with the highest cumulative grade average earned (as defined above) from accredited schools beginning in ninth grade and culminating with the completion of all coursework and tests required for graduation or at the end of the first semester, whichever comes first. The salutatorian shall be the candidate for graduation with the next highest cumulative grade average earned from accredited schools beginning in ninth grade and culminating with the completion of all coursework and tests required for graduation or at the end of the first semester, whichever comes first. Grades earned in middle school, even if awarded high school credit, and grades earned in remedial or developmental classes shall not be included when computing numerical averages for academic honors. In addition, both candidates must have a grade point average (GPA) of at least a 3.7; must score at least 1200 on the math and verbal sections combined of the SAT or score at least 26 on the ACT; must earn at least four credits in either advanced math, science, or foreign language, Advanced Placement classes, or core classes at a University System institution; and must be enrolled in the school for a minimum of two semesters prior to the calculation of the cumulative grade average.
In the event of a tie for valedictorian, students shall be awarded the designation of co-valedictorian and there shall be no salutatorian. In the event of a tie for salutatorian, students shall be awarded the designation of co-salutatorian. For purposes of awarding the Zell Miller Valedictorian designation, overall averages for final course grades will be used as a tie-breaker in the event there are co-valedictorians.
VANDALISM
Any acts of vandalism or pranks resulting in destruction of RHS property will be dealt with by filing charges with the police department. Students are never to be on campus during unauthorized times without faculty supervision. Disciplinary action may include ISS, OSS, placing of “holds” on school records (diplomas, transcripts, etc.) until restitution is made, loss of privilege to participate in graduation activities, and recommendation to the RCS Disciplinary Tribunal for long-term suspension or referral to the RTA.
VISITORS
All visitors are to see the secretary in the front office, who will issue a visitor’s pass and allow you to pass through the secure system with a valid ID. The visitor must wear the pass and have it visible in the building at all times. The secretary will decide based on protocol given to her by the Principal, if there is a legitimate reason to be on campus. Students are not allowed to have visitors at school at any time. Students from other schools are not allowed to visit unless their parents have had a conference with an administrator with the intention of enrolling their children at RHS. Parents are always welcome at RHS and are encouraged to make appointments with a counselor to see a teacher. Conferences are usually scheduled during teachers’ planning periods or after school and should be arranged at least a day in advance.
VOTER REGISTRATION
All students who are at least 18 years old may register to vote. Students who are nearing their 18th birthday can complete the registration form early if they wish, but they cannot vote until their 18th birthday. Registration forms are available in the counseling office to fill out and mail to the Floyd County registrar’s office which verifies eligibility.
POSSIBLE DISCIPLINE OFFENSES FOR OFFICE REFERRALS
1. Class disruptions and failure to follow classroom directions
2. Fighting
3. Pushing/shoving/threatening to fight/bullying/harassing/taunting
4. Stealing/vandalism
5. Possession of tobacco and/or lighter
6. Smoking
7. Profanity
8. Rude and defiance toward a teacher
9. Cutting/skipping classes
10. Physical insult (spitting, touching in inappropriate places, throwing dangerous objects at a student, etc.)
11. Threatening school personnel or their property
12. Throwing food
13. D-hall no-shows
14. Bus referrals
15. Ride bus when removed by an administrator
16. Refusal to identify oneself
17. Academic misconduct
18. Drugs and alcohol
19. Gambling
20. Off-limit areas
21. Radio and electronic equipment
22. Forgery/false statements
23. No hall pass
24. Dress code violations
25. Gang-related activities – zero-tolerance policy
26. Unauthorized presence in mechanical rooms and service areas
27. Misuse of computer/electronics
28. Not coming to school or leaving campus
29. Removed from ISS for disciplinary reasons
30. Not wearing student ID
Rome City Schools
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”)
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”) Notice Revised June 2020
(i) Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or the student’s parent;
(ii) Mental or psychological problems of the student or the student’s family;
(iii) Sex behavior or attitudes;
(iv) Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior;
(v) Critical appraisals of other individuals with whom respondents have close family relationships; (vi) Legally recognized privileged or analogous relationships, such as those of lawyers, physicians, and ministers;
(vii) Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; or
(viii) Income (other than that required by law to determine eligibility for participation in a program or for receiving financial assistance under such program), without prior written consent of the parent or eligible student.
NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
Rome City Schools prohibits discrimination, harassment, intimidation, abusive conduct or bullying on the basis of any protected category by the by the Constitution of the United States, the Constitution of the State of Illinois, and applicable federal, state or local laws or ordinances, including but not limited to Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII), Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA), Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX), the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504), including, but not limited to, actual or perceived race or ethnicity, gender/sex (includes gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and pregnancy-related medical conditions), sexual orientation, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, immigration status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, military and veteran status, marital status, registered domestic partner status, age (40 and above), genetic information, political belief or affiliation (unless union related), a person’s association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics in the educational programs or activities the District operates or in the District’s employment.
Any student, employee, applicant for employment, parent or other individual who believes he or she has been subjected to harassment or discrimination by other students or employees of the District based upon any of the factors listed above should promptly report the same to the principal of the school. You may also contact the District’s Equity Compliance Officer/Title IX Coordinator:
John Fricks
508 East 2nd Street
Rome, GA 30161
706-236-5050
The District prohibits retaliation against any person who files a complaint or an appeal, reports instances of noncompliance, discrimination, harassment, intimidation, abusive conduct or bullying, or who participates in the complaint-filing or investigation process. Questions regarding discrimination may alternatively be addressed to either U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, depending on the status of the complainant.
Georgia’s compulsory attendance law requires that every parent, guardian, or other person residing within the State having control or charge of any child or children between their sixth and sixteenth birthdays shall enroll and send such child or children to a State approved education program. (O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690.1).
Excused Absences
Positive Benefits of School Attendance
Consequences of Failure to Comply with the Compulsory Attendance Law
Penalties for Failure to Comply with the Compulsory Attendance Law
Parent and Student Sign-off page is at the front of Student Handbook.
Rome City Schools is committed to enhancing teaching and learning through the use of electronic communications and computing devices (ECCDs). We continue to allow students to enhance their learning through district-owned computers and devices through our 1-to-1 initiative. In addition, we allow students to Bring Your Own Technology (BYOT) to any school in the district that participates in the BYOT program. The use of ECCDs in schools increases student productivity in and outside the classroom, encourages individual leadership in learning, expands access to learning resources, and helps develop digital citizenship within a structured environment. The 1-to-1 initiative remains the priority of Rome City Schools for the use of technology in the classroom. BYOT is a privilege, not a right, and is only utilized under certain circumstances enacted by the schools individually.
Rome City Schools 1-to-1 Initiative Statement
The Rome City Schools 1-to-1 Initiative will:
Definition of Electronic Communications and Computing Devices
Electronic communications and computing devices (ECCDs) include all privately owned or school-owned wireless, wired, portable, wearable, or stationary electronic devices. This includes, but is not limited to, computers, cell phones, smartphones, smart watches, other smart technologies, mobile communication devices, tablets, laptops, portable internet devices, personal digital assistants, pagers, hand-held entertainment systems, or portable information systems that can be used for word processing, wired or wireless internet access, image capturing or recording, sound recording, and information transmitting/receiving/storing, etc.
Internet Access Methods
Only the internet gateway provided by the school through wireless (Wi-Fi) or campus wired networks may be accessed while on campus. Personal internet connection devices, such as, but not limited to, cell phones, mobile hotspots(including school-issued), tethering, or cell network adaptors are not permitted to be used to access outside internet sources at any time while on campus.
Student Network and Cloud Access Accounts (Student handbook)
Rome City Schools provides access to controlled resources for the facilitation of in-class and off-campus classwork, homework, and collaboration. These resources include email accounts, online productivity software applications, and online learning management environments. Email communications for kindergarten through eighth grade are restricted to internal communications only (with other students and Rome City Schools teachers and administrators). Exceptions do apply for the ability to access further online resources. Email accounts for grades nine through twelve have the ability to communicate outside of the Rome City Schools network.
Rome City Schools currently provides an email account to all students through Google Workspace for Education immediately upon enrollment. All student accounts are deactivated upon withdrawal. Graduating senior accounts will remain active for one year from the date of graduation to allow for the transfer of personal school data out of their Rome City Schools account.
All emails, images, videos, and other general data in cloud accounts provided by Rome City Schools are tracked and logged for all students in the district.
All email communications can and will be reviewed and/or recorded without consent or notification in the event that such information is valuable to an active investigation resulting from disciplinary or law enforcement action.
Students are expected to follow the guidelines presented below:
educational communications;
appropriate language for school situations and communications;
etiquette; and
I understand that I have no right to privacy when I use the Internet at school, and I consent to staff monitoring of my communications.
I also understand that any conduct that is in conflict with these responsibilities is inappropriate and may result in the termination of internet access and possible disciplinary action.
(Signed and understood in conjunction with the INTERNET ACCESS AGREEMENT and ROME CITY SCHOOLS TECHNOLOGY RESOURCE USAGE AGREEMENT)
Due to the nature of the Internet, it is neither practical nor possible for the Rome City Schools Board of Education to enforce compliance with user rules at all times. Accordingly, parents and students must recognize that students will be required to make independent decisions and use good judgment in their use of the Internet. Therefore, parents must participate in the decision of whether to allow their student access to the Internet and must communicate their own expectations to their student regarding its use.
As a parent/guardian of a Rome City Schools student, I have read the Student Internet Acceptable Use policy and administrative procedure and this Internet Access Agreement.
I understand that internet access is provided for educational purposes and that the school will
attempt to discourage access to objectionable material and communications that are intended to exploit, harass, or abuse students. However, I recognize it is impossible for the school district to restrict access to all objectionable material, and I will not hold the school district responsible for materials acquired or contacts made on the Internet.
I understand that a variety of inappropriate and offensive materials are available over the Internet and that it may be possible for my child to access these materials if he/she chooses to behave irresponsibly or try to circumvent in-place filters and controls. I also understand that it is possible for undesirable or ill-intended individuals to communicate with my child over the Internet, that there are no practical means for the school to prevent this from happening at all times, and that my child must take responsibility to avoid such communications if they are initiated. While I authorize administrators to monitor any communications to or from my child on the Internet, I recognize that it is not possible for the school or district to monitor all such communications. I have determined that the benefits of my child having access to the Internet outweigh the potential risks. I understand that any conduct by my child that is in conflict with these responsibilities is inappropriate, and such behavior may result in the termination of access and other possible disciplinary action.
I have reviewed these responsibilities with my child and I hereby grant permission to the school to provide internet access.
I agree to compensate the school district for any expenses or costs incurred as a result of my child’s violation of the Internet policy or administrative procedure.
I accept responsibility to abide by the Rome City Schools Board of Education Internet Acceptable Use Policy (IFBG) and procedures as stated in this agreement. I understand that the use of the Internet and access to it is a privilege, not a right.
I agree:
purposes and research;
designated school staff;
situations;
services or equipment. (This includes but is not limited to tampering with computer hardware or software, vandalizing data, invoking computer viruses, attempting to gain access to restricted or unauthorized network services, or violating copyright laws);
I understand that I have no right to privacy when I use the Internet at school, and I consent to administrators' monitoring of my communications.
PURPOSE
Rome City Schools (RCS) provides students access to Chromebooks and other computing devices at all grade levels, as a means to promote achievement, personalize learning, and provide diverse opportunities during the educational experience. This document also describes the possible financial responsibilities that the student, parent, or guardian assumes by signing this agreement.
TERMS OF THE TECHNOLOGY RESOURCE USAGE AGREEMENT
In conjunction with the Rome City Schools Chromebook Policy (see attached), parents/guardians will be responsible for the proper treatment and care of the Chromebook or other device issued to them by the school district.
INCIDENT FEES
There are three categories of financial responsibility; damage, lost, and stolen/not returned. Should repair be required due to a system failure, no fault of the student (i.e., hard drive failure, system board failure), the device will be repaired at no cost.
DAMAGE
Should repair be required due to malicious or exceptional damage of a take-home device or damages deemed to be malicious for a device that is used solely in school, a pricing list has been supplied for various situations under the section “Repaithe rs” of the RCS 1-to-1 Computing Device Policy (included in this agreement).
LOST
Should a Chromebook or any other device or any related parts be lost, the full cost of the replacement will be required*
STOLEN/NOT RETURNED
Should a Chromebook or any other device be stolen, Rome City Schools will require that a police report be submitted in cases of theft or the cost of replacement will be required.
* Fraudulent reporting of theft will be turned over to the police for prosecution. A student making a false report will also be subject to disciplinary action as outlined by the school discipline code. If a Chromebook and/ or its accessories are not returned when requested, the full cost of the replacement will be required* or Rome City Schools will file a police report as the Chromebook will be deemed stolen.
*Please see LOST OR DAMAGED CHROMEBOOKS AND/OR CHARGERS section of RCS 1-to-1 Computing Device Policy (BELOW) for repair and replacement costs.
1-TO-1 COMPUTING DEVICE POLICY
The mission of the 1-to-1 program in the Rome City School district is to create a collaborative learning environment for all learners. This environment will enable and support students and teachers to implement transformative uses of technology while enhancing students’ engagement with content and promoting the development of self-directed, responsible lifelong learners and users. Students will transition from consumers of information to creative producers and owners of knowledge. We believe technology in schools increases student productivity in and outside the classroom, encourages individual leadership in learning, expands access to learning resources, and helps develop digital citizenship within a structured environment. Technology immersion does not diminish the vital role of the teacher. On the contrary, it transforms the teacher from a director of learning to a facilitator of learning. The School Board, district staff, and community members will all play a key role in the development of effective and high-quality educational experiences.
DEVICE PURPOSE
The Rome City School District is supplying students with a Chromebook device. This device is the property of the Rome City Schools. The supplied instructional device will function to provide each student access to the required educational materials needed in order to be successful.
The Chromebook allows student access to Google Apps for Education, Gmail, educational web-based tools, as well as many other useful sites. The supplied device is an educational tool not intended for gaming, social networking or high-end computing.
The policies, procedures, and information within this document apply to all Chromebooks used at Rome City Schools by students, staff, or guests including any other device considered by the Administration to fall under this policy. Teachers may set additional requirements for Chromebook use in their classrooms.
RECEIVING YOUR CHROMEBOOK
Chromebooks will be distributed each fall during the first or second week of school. Parents & Students must sign and return the Chromebook Policy Sign-off before the Chromebook can be issued to their child.
TAKE-HOME POLICY
The decision to take an assigned device home for academic use shall be authorized by school-level administrators only. This privilege may be revoked at any time without notice or explanation.
STUDENT-OWNED DEVICES (BYOT)
In special circumstances, student-owned laptops, notebook, or tablet computing devices will be allowed (outside purchase instead of a district-supplied device). The Rome City School District is not responsible for damage, loss, theft, or IT issues of student-owned laptops or devices. Students who choose to bring their own personal laptop or device do not rescind the district’s right to inspect the laptop or device at any time while on school district property nor do they rescind the district’s Internet Usage Policy. Student BYOT privileges may be revoked at any time without notice or explanation.
TRAINING
Students will be trained on how to use the Chrome book by their teachers. Training documents and videos will be available online for students to refer to when needed.
RETURN
Student Chromebooks and chargers will be collected at the end of each school year for maintenance over summer vacation. Any student who transfers out of Rome City Schools will be required to return their Chromebook and accessories. If a Chromebook and accessories are not returned, the parent/ guardian will be held responsible for payment in full or Rome City Schools will file a police report as the Chromebook will be deemed stolen.
TAKING CARE OF YOUR CHROMEBOOK
Students are responsible for the general care of the Chromebook that they have been issued by the school. Chromebooks that are broken or fail to work properly must be taken to the Media Center. If a loaner Chromebook is needed, one will be issued to the student until their Chromebook can be repaired or replaced if one is available. Students are responsible for reporting any notable wear and tear involving their checked-out Chromebook prior to leaving the media center.
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
CARRYING THE CHROMEBOOK
The protective case, shell, and edges of the Chromebook will only provide basic protection from everyday use. It is not designed to prevent damage from excessive drops or abusive handling. Carrying the Chromebook in a padded backpack or padded book bag is acceptable provided the backpack or bookbag is handled with care. For example, you shouldn’t toss the bag or drop the bag if your Chromebook is inside.
SCREEN CARE
The Chromebook screen can be damaged if subjected to rough treatment. The screens are particularly sensitive to damage from excessive pressure on the screen.
USING YOUR CHROMEBOOK
AT SCHOOL
The Chromebook is intended for use at school every day. In addition to teacher expectations for Chromebook use, school messages, announcements, calendars, academic handbooks, student handbooks, and schedules will be accessed using the Chromebook. Students must be responsible for bringing their Chromebook to all classes, unless specifically advised not to do so by their teacher.
AT HOME
If authorized for home use by your school administrators, Chromebooks must be brought to school each day in a fully charged condition. Students need to charge their Chromebooks each evening. If students leave their Chromebook at home, they must immediately phone their parents to bring the Chromebook to school. Repeated violations of this policy will result in referral to administration and possible disciplinary action. It is recommended that students not carry the AC Adapter power cord (charger) to school. If fully charged at home, the battery will last throughout the day.
SOUND
Sound must be muted at all times unless permission is obtained from the teacher for instructional purposes. It's recommended that students bring personal headsets or ‘earbuds’ for any audio projects they work on.
PRINTING
At School: Chromebooks are not set up for printing at school other than USB printing if available. Students may sign in to their Google account on a media center or classroom computer if they need to print a document. Printing fees may apply. Teaching strategies will facilitate digital copies of homework.
At Home: Chromebooks will support a physical USB printer connection.
MANAGING YOUR FILES AND SAVING YOUR WORK
Students may save documents to their Google Drive, or they may save to an external memory device such as a miniSD card or USB flash drive. Saving to Google Drive will make the file accessible from any computer with internet access. Students using Google Drive to work on their documents will not need to save their work, as Drive will save each keystroke as the work is being completed. It will be the responsibility of the student to maintain the integrity of their files and keep proper backups. Students will be trained on proper file management procedures.
PERSONALIZING THE CHROMEBOOK
Chromebooks must remain free of any writing, drawing, or stickers including the outer protective case. An identification label with the student’s name is acceptable on the Chromebooks using blue tape commonly referred to as painting tape. Spot checks for compliance will be done by the administration and Rome City Schools technicians at any time. Students may add appropriate music, photos, and videos to their Chromebook. Personalized media are subject to inspection and must follow the Rome City Schools’ acceptable use policy.
CHROMEBOOK SCREEN MONITORING
All Chromebook screen activities and web browsing histories are subject to any-time monitoring by classroom teachers. There is no requirement that teachers notify students when such monitoring may take place. Monitoring through the use of the Chromebook webcam is not possible and will not occur.
SOFTWARE ON CHROMEBOOKS
ORIGINALLY INSTALLED SOFTWARE
Chromebook software is delivered via the Chrome Web Store. These are web-based applications that do not require installation space on a hard drive. Some applications, such as Google Drive, are available for offline use. The software originally installed on the Chromebook must remain on the Chromebook in usable condition and easily accessible at all times. All Chromebooks are supplied with the latest build of Google Chrome Operating System (OS), and many other applications useful in an educational
environment. The Chrome OS will automatically install updates when the computer is shut down and restarted. From time to time the school may add software applications for use in a particular course. This process will be automatic with virtually no impact on students. Applications that are no longer needed will automatically be removed by the school as well. Virus protection is unnecessary on the Chromebook due to the unique nature of its design.
ADDITIONAL SOFTWARE
Students are unable to install additional software on their Chromebook other than what has been approved by Rome City Schools.
INSPECTION
Students may be selected at random to provide their Chromebook for inspection. The purpose for inspection will be to check for proper care and maintenance as well as inappropriate material being carried into the school.
PROCEDURE FOR RESTORING THE CHROME OS
If technical difficulties occur, technical support staff will use the “5-minute” rule. If the problem cannot be fixed in 5 minutes, the Chromebook will be restored to factory defaults. In a 1-to-1 environment it is impossible for support staff to maintain a working environment for all if too much time is spent fixing every glitch that may arise. Restoring the Chrome OS will restore the device to the state in which the user originally received it. All students created files stored on an external mini SD card, USB flash drive, or Google Drive will be intact after the operating system is restored. All files saved on the Chromebook that have been synced to Google Drive will be intact. However, all other data (music, photos, documents) stored on internal memory that has NOT been synced will not be restored unless the student requests that an attempt be made to salvage it. (There is not a guarantee that this is possible in all situations.)
PROTECTING & STORING YOUR CHROMEBOOK
CHROMEBOOK IDENTIFICATION
Chromebooks will be labeled in the manner specified by the school. Chromebooks can be identified in the following ways:
Under no circumstances are students to modify, remove, or destroy identification labels.
STORING YOUR CHROMEBOOK
When students are not monitoring their Chrome book, they should be stored in a secure place or in their lockers with the lock securely fastened. Nothing should be placed on top of the Chromebook, when stored in the locker. Students need to take their Chromebook home with them every night.
STORING CHROMEBOOKS AT EXTRACURRICULAR EVENTS
Students are responsible for securely storing their Chromebook during extra-curricular events.
CHROMEBOOKS LEFT IN UNSUPERVISED / UNSECURED AREAS
Under no circumstance should a Chromebook be stored in unsupervised areas. Unsupervised areas include the school grounds and campus, the cafeteria, unlocked classrooms, library, locker rooms, dressing rooms, hallways, bathrooms, extra-curricular bus, in a car, or any other entity that is not securely locked or in which there is no supervision. Unsupervised Chromebooks will be confiscated by staff and taken to the Principal’s office. Disciplinary action may be taken for leaving a Chromebook in an unsupervised location.
REPAIRS
CHROMEBOOKS UNDERGOING REPAIR
Loaner Chromebooks may be issued to students when they leave their Chromebook for repair at the Media Center. If repair is needed due to malicious damage, the school may refuse to provide a loaner Chromebook.
Repaired Chromebooks will end up with the original factory image as first received. It is important that students keep their school data synced to their Google Drive so documents and class projects will not be lost. Personal information that cannot be replaced should be kept at home on an external storage device. Students and parents will be charged for Chromebook damage that is a result of misuse or abusive handling. Parents will be billed for parts and labor.
LOST OR DAMAGED CHROMEBOOKS AND/OR CHARGERS
A Chromebook or any of its accessories that are lost (whereabouts unknown) or intentionally damaged is the responsibility of the student and parent involved in the loss of property. The replacement costs are listed below. The user will not be given another device or accessory to use until the replacement cost of the lost/damaged device or accessory is paid to the school.
CHROMEBOOK TECHNICAL SUPPORT
The Media Center at your school will be the first point of contact for the repair of the Chromebooks. Services provided by the Media Center or the Technology Services Department include:
RCS INTERNET HOTSPOTS / MOBILE WIFI HOTSPOTS
USAGE
Under certain circumstances, a student may check out a cellular-based internet hotspot also known as a “jetpack” or a “MiFi” box. This device is to be used by RCS devices only for school-based internet usage. These devices may or may not have content filters in place to prevent access to inappropriate websites. However, RCS-provided Chromebooks do have this feature in place.
REPLACEMENT
In the case of a lost hotspot device, the replacement cost is $50.
ROME CITY SCHOOLS
The Rome City School District’s primary goal is to educate, not to discipline. However, when the behavior of an individual student conflicts with the rights of others or interferes with the educational setting, corrective actions may be necessary for the benefit of the individual and the school as a whole.
The purpose of this code is to provide the District’s students with an effective and safe learning environment. While the following is an outline of expected behaviors and the consequences relating to various violations, it is not intended to include all offenses for which disciplinary action may be taken since it is not possible to identify every behavior which might result in disciplinary consequences.
Standards of Behavior:
• Respect constitutional authority, including teachers, administrators, bus drivers, and other school employees. This shall include compliance with school rules and regulations and applicable provisions of law;
• Attend school daily, except when excused, and be on time for all classes and other school-day functions;
• Pursue and attempt to complete the course of study prescribed by school authorities;
• Protect and take care of the school’s property and the property of others;
• Dress and groom to meet fair standards of health and common standards of decency;
• Avoid the use of indecent or obscene language, both written and oral;
• Avoid conduct that will demean or slander others; and • Demonstrate respect for self and others.
Scope of the Student Code: The code provisions contained herein shall apply to offenses that students commit while: (1) On school property at any time; (2) Off school grounds while participating in or attending a school-sponsored event, function, or activity; (3) At a bus stop or while traveling on a bus or other vehicle to/from school or used in connection with school-sponsored event, function, or activity; (4) When either the alleged perpetrator or the alleged victim is en route to and/or from school, or to/from a school-sponsored event, function, or activity; (5) Off school grounds when the behavior is in accordance with O.C.G.A. 20-2-751.5(c); (6) Off school grounds when the misconduct is directed at a school employee and is related to the victim’s school affiliation; or (7) While using a school technology resource.
Confiscation of Property: Students who have unauthorized materials/objects/contraband will have the items confiscated and returned at the discretion of the administrator. The District assumes no liability for the theft, loss, or damage of items possessed by students on school property or held by school staff during the confiscation period.
District employees will not be responsible for searching for lost or stolen student property.
PART I: AGE APPROPRIATE/PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE
The Student Code of Conduct addresses two aspects of creating a positive school learning environment: (1) proactively guiding students to positive behavior, and (2) correcting, redirecting, and rendering consequences as needed to respond to misconduct.
Proactive Guidance for Positive Behavior
Proactive guidance focuses on preventing problems by providing students with meaningful, positive feedback to enhance motivation, engagement, and performance, and teaching expectations at the beginning of each year, reviewing expectations as necessary, and treating minor misbehavior as a learning opportunity.
Teaching desired behaviors to minimize misconduct is based on three principles: (1) All behavior is learned; (2) Any repeated behavior is serving a purpose for the student; and (3) Student behavior can be changed.
Schools proactively teach, reinforce, correct, and supervise student behavior. Proactively teaching and reinforcing positive behaviors greatly reduces the number of subsequent mis conducts, and modeling for students how they are expected to interact and perform in an educational setting improves learning and engagement. Whether guiding, correcting, or rendering consequences for behavior, all staff should: (a) Have high expectations for student success; (b) Build positive relationships with students; (c) Create consistent, predictable school and class routines; (d) Teach students how to behave successfully in all school settings; (e) Provide frequent, positive feedback for appropriate behavior; and (f) Correct misbehavior in a calm, consistent, and logical manner.
School-Level Intervention and Support Process
The Rome City Board of Education supports a framework of tiered interventions for students experiencing behavioral challenges. Students not displaying behaviors designated in the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) matrix will be provided tiered interventions in accordance with the Rome City Schools Pyramid of interventions. Each school has a Pyramid of Interventions that is based on the system framework. All students are provided Tier 1 interventions. However, students that experience behavioral challenges after Tier 1 interventions have been implemented with fidelity are provided Tier 2 interventions. If Tier 1 and Tier 2 interventions and consequences are not successful in decreasing students’ behavior that disrupts the educational progress of the student and others, Tier 3 interventions are then implemented.
Each school shall send within one school day written notification to the student’s parents/guardians of the behavior support services provided in response to a disciplinary action, including how the student’s parents/guardians may contact the principal or principal’s designee.
Progressive Discipline
The progressive discipline philosophy is designed to create the expectation that the degree interventions and consequences imposed will be in proportion to the severity
of the behavior of the student, its impact on the school environment, the student’s age and grade level, the previous discipline history of the student, and other relevant factors while ensuring that each student receives the due process mandated by law. Code of Conduct offenses have been divided into three levels with each level representing
progressively more serious misbehavior and consequences:
A. Level 1 Discipline: This level is used for minor acts of misconduct which interfere with orderly school procedures, school functions, extracurricular programs, approved transportation, or student learning. Following appropriate teacher intervention, the student may be referred to an administrator.
School Level | Range of Consequences |
Elementary (Pre-K to 5th) | Administrative conference to five (5) days of In-School Suspension (ISS). |
Middle/High (6th to 12th) | Administrative conference to one (1) day of Out-of-School Suspension (OSS). |
B. Level 2 Discipline: This level is for intermediate acts of misconduct that require administrative intervention. These acts include, but are not limited to, significantly interfering with the good order of the school and/or the well-being of others and/or minor damage to property, but which do not seriously endanger the health, safety, or well-being of others.
School Level | Range of Consequences |
Elementary (Pre-K to 5th) | One (1) day In-School Suspension (ISS) to five (5) days of Out-of-School Suspension (OSS). |
Middle/High (6th to 12th) | One (1) day In-School Suspension (ISS) to five (5) days of Out-of-School Suspension (OSS). |
C. Level 3 Discipline: This level is for major acts of misconduct including, but not limited to, repeated misbehavior that is similar in nature, serious disruptions of the school environment, threats to health, safety, or property, and other acts of serious misconduct. These offenses must be reported to the administrator and require parent/guardian participation in a conference with the administrator.
School Level | Range of Consequences |
Elementary (Pre-K to 5th) | Three (3) days of Out-of-School Suspension (OSS) to ten (10) days of Out-of-School Suspension. |
Middle/High (6th to 12th) | Three (3) days of Out-of-School (6th to 12th) Suspension (OSS) to ten (10) days of Out-of-School Suspension. |
A Level 3 discipline response may include a referral to a disciplinary tribunal. The tribunal panel may impose consequences which include long-term suspension, expulsion, permanent expulsion, or assignment to an alternative education program (when such a program is available). The student may also be referred for possible criminal charges pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 20-2-1184. | |
Administrators will also refer to the District’s Discipline Guidelines when determining the appropriate discipline level to use. In case of disciplinary violations not covered by this code, the administrator may impose corrective measures which he/ she believes to be in best the interest of the student and the school. Restitution to the victim may be ordered where there has been damage to property and/or injuries to a person.
The school discipline process should include appropriate consideration of support processes to help students resolve issues that may be contributing to violations to the student code of conduct. These resources may include, but are not limited to, Student Support Team, positive behavioral supports, restorative practices, counseling with a school counselor, school social worker intervention, behavior, attendance and academic contracts and plans, peer mediation, and prevention programs.
NOTE: Any disciplinary action taken against students with disabilities shall be subject to and conducted pursuant to the provisions and protections set forth in Georgia Administrative Procedures Act Rule 160-4-7-.10 et. seq., as amended.
Discipline of Students in Pre-K Through Third Grade
Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 20-2-742, students in Pre-K through 3rd grade will not be expelled or suspended from school for more than five consecutive or cumulative days during a school year without first receiving a multi-tiered system of supports (“MTSS”), such as response to intervention. If such a student is receiving or has received MTSS, the District has met these requirements. This requirement does not apply if: (1) the student possessed a dangerous weapon/ firearm/hazardous objects as defined in O.C.G.A. § 20-2-751; or (2) the student’s behavior endangers the physical safety of other students or school staff.
Special Education Students
Nothing in this Policy shall be interpreted to infringe on any right provided to students by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, or the Americans with Disabilities Act.
PART II - SUBSTANTIVE RULES
RULE 1. DISRUPTION AND INTERFERENCE WITH SCHOOL
1.1 School and Class Disruption: No student shall, in any manner, by the use of violence, force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, passive resistance, or any other conduct, intentionally cause or contribute to the disruption of any lawful mission, process, or function of the school, including a teacher’s ability to conduct a class or activity or a stu dent’s ability to learn, or engage in any such conduct for the purpose of causing the disruption or obstruction of any such lawful mission, process, or function. No student shall, except under the direct instruction of the principal, block normal pedestrian or vehicular traffic on school campus or adjacent grounds. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
1.2 Possession of Unapproved Items: No student shall be in possession of any item that does, or has the
potential to, disrupt the school environment or affect school safety. Items violating this rule do not include those which meet the definition of Rule 7 (“Weapons and Hazardous Objects”) or those that are prohibited under Rule 2 (“Harmful and Illicit Substances”).
(Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
1.3 Gambling: No student shall participate in any type of gambling activity, as defined by Georgia law, or activity involving the wagering or betting of services, money, or other items. Students may not possess objects to be used in gambling (e.g., dice, cards) without the approval of school staff. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
1.4 Gang-Related Activity: Student shall not knowingly engage in gang activity on school grounds. No student shall hold himself/herself out as being affiliated with a gang, including displaying gang tattoos or gang symbols. A “gang” is defined as any group or association of three or more persons, whether formal or informal, which encourages, solicits, promotes, urges, counsels, furthers, advocates, condones, assists, causes, advises, procures, or abets any illegal or disruptive activity or behavior of any kind, whether on or off school campuses or school property. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
1.5 False Reports: No student shall knowingly and willfully make false reports or statements whether orally or in writing; falsely accuse other students of wrong actions; falsely accuse school staff of wrong action or inappropriate conduct; falsify school records; or forge signatures. No student shall knowingly make or cause a false call to emergency services to be made, including a false fire alarm. (Elem/MS/ HS Level 1-3)
1.6 Parties to the Offense: No student shall incite,
urge, encourage, counsel, further, promote, assist, cause, advise, procure, or abet any other student(s) to violate any section or paragraph of this Code of
Conduct. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
RULE 2. HARMFUL AND ILLICIT SUBSTANCES
2.1 Tobacco: Rome City Schools is a Tobacco Free School Sys tem and RCS students shall not, or attempt to, use, possess, buy, sell, or distribute tobacco, tobacco paraphernalia, or tobacco product substitutes in any form. No student shall, or attempt to, use, possess, buy, sell, or distribute any substance under the pretense that it is a prohibited substance as described in this rule. An electronic smoking device (vapor izers/e-cigarettes/hookahs/etc.) and any electronic smoking-related product or liquid will be classified as a tobacco product regardless of contents, unless said device or product contains, or is suspected to contain, an illicit drug as set forth in Rule 2.3 of this Part. (Elem Level 1-3; MS/HS Level 2-3)
2.2 Alcohol: No student shall, or attempt to, consume, possess, buy, sell, or distribute alcoholic beverages (including related products such as “near” beer, non-alcoholic beer, and non-alcoholic wine coolers). No student shall, or attempt to, consume, possess, buy, sell, or distribute any substance under the pretense that it is a prohibited substance as described in this rule. Legal intoxication is not required for violation of this rule. (Elem/MS/HS Level 2-3)
2.3 Drugs: No student shall, or attempt to, use, consume, possess, buy, sell, or distribute any illicit drugs, narcotics, marijuana, or any substance listed under the Georgia Controlled Substances Act, or any chemical(s) intended to bring about a state of exhilaration or euphoria or of otherwise altering one’s mood or behavior. No student shall, or attempt to, use, consume, possess, buy, sell, or distribute any substance under the pretense that it is a prohibited substance as described in this rule. Legal intoxication is not required for violation of this rule. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
This rule shall not apply to proper possession and or use of a drug as authorized by a medical prescription from a registered physician. Possession of all such medication, including over-the-counter medication, on school property must be in compliance with Policy JGCD. The misuse or unauthorized possession of a prescription drug or over-the-counter drug shall be considered a violation of this rule.
Students who demonstrate a substance abuse problem will be referred to a community substance abuse resource service. Available resources for information, counseling, and treatment can be found at Highland Rivers Health
Services at (706) 233-9023, Floyd Medical Center at (706) 509-5000, Georgia Crisis and Access Line at 1-800-715-4225, and through private physicians, counselors, and therapists. Additional information can be obtained from each school counselor.
2.4 Drug Paraphernalia: No student shall possess, transmit, store, buy, sell, distribute, or possess with intent to sell any drug-related paraphernalia. Examples of drug paraphernalia include, but are not limited to, bongs, pipes, grinders, scales, plastic baggies, and needles. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
RULE 3. HARASSMENT, THREATS, AND BULLYING
3.1 Harassment and Threats: No student shall engage in harassment, intimidation, stalking, hazing, or abuse toward any other student(s), school employees, or other adults for any reason. This includes, but is not limited to, offending conduct which is directed toward individuals based on actual or perceived race, creed, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or a physical characteristic.
No student shall threaten to harm any other person, to release any hazardous substance, or to burn or damage property with the purpose of (a) terrorizing another; (b) causing the evacuation of a building (whole or part) /bus/place of assembly; (c) causing a serious public inconvenience; or when the threat is made in reckless disregard of causing (a), (b), or (c). (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
3.2 Bullying: No student shall bully another student. (Elem/ MS/HS Level 1-3).
Bullying behavior is defined in accordance with Policy JCDAG and O.C.G.A. § 20-2-751.4 as:
1. Any willful attempt or threat to inflict injury on another person, when accompanied by an apparent present ability to do so;
2. Any intentional display of force such as would give the victim reason to fear or expect immediate bodily harm; or
3. Any intentional written, verbal, or physical act which a reasonable person would perceive as being intended to threaten, harass, or intimidate, that:
a. Causes substantial physical harm or bodily harm capable of being perceived by a person other than the victim and may include, but is not limited to, substantially blackened eyes, substantially swollen lips or other facial or body parts, or substantial bruises to body parts;
b. Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education;
c. Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it
creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or
d. Has the effect of substantially disrupting the
orderly operation of the school.
Bullying also includes cyberbullying which can occur through the use of electronic communication, whether or not such electronic act originated on school property or with school equipment, if the electronic communication:
1. Is directed specifically at students or school staff,
2. Is maliciously intended for the purpose of threatening the safety of those specified or substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school, and
3. Creates a reasonable fear of harm to the students’ or school staff’s person or property or has a high likelihood of succeeding in that purpose.
NOTE: No person who reports bullying behavior will be retaliated against by RCS or any school staff members. Students who retaliate against others for reports of bullying behavior are subject to discipline which may include enhanced consequences. Students who knowingly file a false report of bullying will also be disciplined.
RULE 4. PHYSICAL OFFENSES
4.1 Assault: A student commits the offense of assault when he or she attempts to cause physical injury to another OR commits an act which places a person in reasonable apprehension of immediately receiving physical injury, but no physical contact is made.
(Elem/MS/HS Level 2-3)
4.2 Fighting: No student shall participate in any type of fighting. “Fighting” is defined as two (2) or more individuals mutually participating in a physical altercation where there is no one main offender. (Elem/MS/HS Level 2-3)
4.3 Battery: A student commits the offense of battery when he or she either: (a) intentionally makes physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with the person of another; or (b) intentionally causes physical harm to another. (Elem/ MS/HS Level 2-3)
4.4 Physical Violence Against School Employees:
A student shall not commit an act of physical violence against a school employee. Students charged with committing an offense as detailed herein shall be suspended and referred to a disciplinary hearing held before a Tribunal of School Officials. (Elem/MS/HS Level 3)
a. The term “physical violence” means:
i. Intentionally making physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with the person of another; or;
ii. Intentionally making physical contact which causes physical harm to another unless such physical contacts or physical harms were in defense of himself, or herself, as provided in O.C.G.A. § 16-3-21.
NOTE: Any student found by the Tribunal of School Officials to have committed an offense as defined in Paragraph a(i) of Rule 4.4 may be disciplined by short-term suspension, long-term suspension, expulsion, or assignment to an alternative education program (when such a program is available).
Any student found by Tribunal of School Officials to have committed an offense as defined in Paragraph a(ii) of Rule 4.4 shall be expelled from Rome City Schools for the remainder of the student’s eligibility to attend public school. The Tribunal of School Officials shall include a recommendation as to whether the student may return to RCS and, if return is recommended, a recommended time for the student’s return to RCS. At the Board’s discretion, the student may attend an alternative education program for the period of the student’s expulsion.
If the student committing an act of physical violence as defined in Paragraph a(ii) of Rule 4.4 is in kindergarten through grade 8, the Rome City School Board, at its
discretion and on the recommendation of the Tribunal, may permit such a student to re-enroll in the regular pub lic-school program for grades 9 through 12. If Rome City Schools does not operate an alternative education program for students in kindergarten through grade 8, the Rome City School Board may, at its discretion, permit such a student to reenroll in the public school system.
Any student who is found by the Tribunal of School Officials to have committed an offense as defined in Paragraph a(ii) of Rule 4.4 shall also be referred to Juvenile Court with a request for a petition alleging delinquent behavior.
4.5 Reckless Behavior: Students shall not engage in rough or boisterous physical behavior. Though often playful and not intended to cause harm, this behavior presents a reasonable risk of harm and/or threatens the safety of others or property. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1)
RULE 5. SEXUAL OFFENSES
5.1 Sexual Misconduct: Students shall not willingly engage in any form of sexual activity or inappropriate sexually based behavior. This includes, but is not limited to, lewd statements or gestures, amorous kissing and other inordinate displays of affection, indecent exposure (such as “mooning”), inappropriate bodily contact or touching (both consensual and non-consensual), or consensual sexual activity. Sexual misconduct does not include a student making intentional and non-consensual physical contact with the intimate parts of another person, as defined in Rule 5.3. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
5.2 Sexual Harassment: Student shall not engage in sexual harassment towards another student or a school employee. Sexual Harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature which is so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies another student’s equal access to the District’s educational programs and activities or which unreasonably interferes with a school employee’s work performance. Sexual harassment also includes sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking. (Elem/MS/HS Level 2-3)
5.3 Sexual Battery: A student commits the offense of sexual battery when he/she intentionally makes physical contact with the intimate parts of the body of another person without the consent of that person. Intimate body parts include the primary genital area, anus, groin, inner thighs, or buttocks of a male or female and the breasts of a female. (Elem Level 2-3; MS/HS Level 3)
RULE 6. PROPERTY RELATED OFFENSES
6.1 Trespassing: A student may not enter, or remain, on school property after hours or while a school is not operational without express authorization or invitation. A student shall not be present in an unauthorized area of a school without administrator authorization. During school hours or while a school is operational, a student is not allowed to be on the premises of a school in which they are not enrolled without permission from an administrator of the school to be visited. Students may not return to their previous/home school or attend any school function while on suspension, expulsion, or when assigned to an alternative school. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
6.2 Vandalism: No student shall cause, or attempt to cause, damage or defacement to property belonging to the school or any other person/entity. (Elem/MS/HS Level 2-3)
6.3 Theft/Robbery: No student shall take, or attempt to take, or use the property of another with the intent to of depriving the owner of its use or benefit. No student shall possess stolen property while on school property. (Elem/ MS/HS Level 1-3)
RULE 7. WEAPONS AND HAZARDOUS OBJECTS
A student shall not possess, handle, transmit, or cause to be transmitted; use or threaten to use; sell, attempt to sell, or conspire to sell a weapon, either concealed or open to view, on school property. A weapon includes a dangerous weapon, firearm or hazardous object, as further defined below. All weapons shall be confiscated and given to school administrators or law enforcement agencies as appropriate. The disposition of confiscated weapons shall be determined by the Superintendent or his/her designee, in conjunction with law enforcement. There is no exception for students who have a valid legal license to carry a weapon. The definition of “weapon” for purposes of this Code of Conduct is one that includes, but is not limited to, the following items:
7.1 Dangerous Weapon or Firearm (Loaded or Unloaded): “Dangerous weapon” means any weapon which fires explosive or non-explosive rockets or weapon which is designed to explode to injure, kill, destroy armor, or similar weapon used for such purpose as defined in O.C.G.A. § 16-11-121. The term shall also mean a weapon commonly known as a “grenade” or other similar weapon which is designed to explode and injure personnel or similar weapon used for such purpose. “Firearm” means a handgun, rifle, shotgun, or other weapon which will or can be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or electrical charge. (Elem/MS/ HS Level 3)
7.2 Weapon – Hazardous Object: Any pellet gun, paint pellet gun, or BB gun, nonlethal air gun, stun gun, taser or any sim ilar weapon that does not meet the definition of a weapon under 7.1 “Dangerous Weapon or Firearm”; any Bowie, Dirk, machete, switchblade knife, ballistics knife, any other knife having a blade of two (2) or more inches; any razor blade (e.g., straight, regular, retractable, etc.); box cutter; any blud geon (e.g. billy club, night stick, club); any firearm muffler or firearm suppressor; “look-alike” bomb; any “martial arts” device or flailing instrument consisting of two or more rigid parts connected in such a manner as to allow them to swing freely (e.g., nunchakus, or fighting chain, etc.); any disc of whatever configuration with at least two points or pointed blades which is designed to be thrown or propelled (e.g., oriental dart, throwing star, etc.); miscellaneous devices such as swords, sword/knife canes, ice picks, chains, bow and arrows, knuckles made of metal, thermoplastic, wood or other similar material, objects placed on fingers, in hands, or on fists or knuckles to provide a “loaded fist,” etc., or any tool or instrument which the school administration could reason ably conclude as being used as a weapon or intended by the student to be used as a weapon and thus a violation of the intent of this Code of Conduct. (Elem/MS/HS Level 2-3)
7.3 Other Weapons: Any knife or instrument having a blade of less than two (2) inches, any “look-alike” firearm, toy guns, or plastic disposable razor or slingshot. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3).
Note: Please use Rule 1.2 (Possession of Unapproved Items) for items such as pepper spray, smoke bombs, stink bombs, fireworks, cigarette lighters, matches, or similar devices.
NOTE: The Gun-Free School Act of 1994 (20 USC 3351) requires school systems to expel students for NOT LESS THAN ONE YEAR for possession of a firearm. The Superintendent may modify this requirement only on a case-by-case basis.
RULE 8. BUS BEHAVIOR
While riding on a school bus or other school-provided transportation, students are prohibited from making noise, using lights or reflective devices, or acting in any other manner so as to interfere with the bus driver’s ability to operate the vehicle. No student shall interfere with another student’s ability to safely ride the bus and without harassing or loud distractions. Students shall not use any electronic device during the operation of a school bus without the use of headphones or earbuds. Any electronic device that is distracting to the bus operator or may interfere with the operation of the bus is prohibited. Students must keep all body parts inside the bus at all times and are prohibited from throwing items into, within, out of, or at a bus. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3 and/or suspension from the bus for a specified time).
If a student, while riding on a school bus or other school-provided transportation commits an offense which is a violation of any other Rule under this Part, then they may receive additional penalties as specified under the applicable rule. If a student has been found to have engaged in battery, acts of physical violence, bullying, or physical threats on the school bus, a meeting of the parent or guardian of the student and appropriate school staff is required to execute a bus behavior contract for the student. The contract must provide for progressive age-appropriate discipline, penalties, and restrictions for student misconduct on the bus.
RULE 9. STUDENT INCIVILITY
9.1 Offensive Language and Materials: No student shall use any type of profane, vulgar, obscene, disrespectful, or ethnically/culturally offensive language (written or oral) or gestures. No student shall possess or distribute profane, vulgar, pornographic, obscene, disrespectful, or ethnically/ culturally offensive materials. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
9.2 Insubordination: Students shall comply with all reasonable directions or commands of school staff
members. This may include, but is not limited to, the directions of a school staff member for the student(s) to go to a location or remove themselves therefrom. No Student shall refuse to identify his/herself to school staff members. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
9.3 Academic Dishonesty: Cheating, plagiarism, and other acts of academic dishonesty are strictly prohibited. No student shall cheat, or attempt to cheat, in any form, whether
using the ideas, knowledge, words, or visual images of another individual. Violation of this rule will also result in loss of credit for the work involved in the violation. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-2)
9.4 Attendance: No student shall be late, absent, or skip from school or from any class or other required school function during required school hours unless said student has a valid excuse. All students must comply with Georgia’s attendance requirements under O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690.1 and RCS Policy JB. (Elem Level 1; MS/HS Level 1-2; Possible referral to Truancy Treatment Team for all grades)
9.5 Dress and Grooming: A student shall not dress, groom, or wear or use emblems, insignias, badges, or other symbols where the effect thereof is to distract unreasonably the attention of other students or otherwise to cause disruption or interference with the operation of the school. The principal or other duly authorized school official shall determine whether any particular mode of dress, apparel, grooming, or use of emblems, insignias, badges or other symbols results in such interference or disruption as to violate this rule, and shall give notice of such interference or disruption, and its cause, to all students by announcement or posting at the school. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-2)
RULE 10. TECHNOLOGY OFFENSES
10.1 Recording: Students shall not use audio or visual recording devices without first obtaining the permission of a school employee. This includes, but is not limited to, using devices to photograph, or record misbehaviors or to violate or harass the rights and privacy of others. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-2)
10.2 Hacking: Students will not attempt to alter, destroy, waste, or disable RCS technology resources including, but not limited to, computers and related equipment, school data, the data of others, or other networks connected to the RCS’s computer systems. Hacking also includes the attempt to access or circumvent passwords or other security-related information of RCS, students, or school staff. Actual or attempted hacking is strictly prohibited. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
10.3 Piracy: Students shall not copy computer programs, software, or other technology provided by RCS. Downloading unauthorized files and installing pirated software on RCS computer(s) is also prohibited. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
10.4 Inappropriate Material: Students will not use any technology resources to access, distribute, or display any inappropriate material. “Inappropriate material” does not serve an instructional or educational purpose and includes, but is not limited to, material that is profane, vulgar, sexually explicit, advocates violence or illegal acts, contains knowingly false or defamatory information, or is otherwise harmful to minors as defined by the Children’s Internet Protection Act. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
NOTE: Students shall not violate policies, rules, or agreements signed by the student or the student’s parent or legal guardian regarding the use of technology resources.
RULE 11. OFF-CAMPUS BEHAVIOR
Any off-campus behavior of a student which could result in the student being criminally charged with a felony and which makes the student’s continued presence at the school a potential danger to persons or property at the school or which disrupts the educational process. (Elem/MS/HS Level 2-3)
RULE 12. BEHAVIOR NOT COVERED ABOVE
The school system reserves the right to punish behavior which is illegal or subversive to good order and discipline in the schools, even though such behavior is not specified in the preceding written rules. (Elem/MS/HS Level 1-3)
PART III: RULES FOR DISCIPLINARY CONSEQUENCES
Section 1. Investigations and Searches: In order to maintain a safe and orderly environment, the principal or designee of each school in the District is authorized, pursuant to Poli cy JCAB, to conduct reasonable interviews, interrogations, and searches of students in order to properly investigate and address student misconduct. Principals or designees may interview or interrogate students without prior notice or permission of parents/guardians. If a series of offenses occur and/or discovered at a given time, all offenses should be investigated and addressed simultaneously in the course of an investigation. Students who may have been witnesses to misconduct may be asked to provide oral or written statements regarding what they know about the event being investigated without prior notice or permission of parents/ guardians. Principals or designees are not required to conduct an investigation before suspending the student when he/she reasonably believes that immediate removal of the student is necessary to restore order or to protect persons on the school grounds.
The principal or designee of each school may search the person or property (including vehicles) of a student, with or without the student’s consent, whenever the principal or designee reasonably believes that the search is required to discover evidence of a violation of law or of school rules. The extent of the search will be governed by the seriousness of the alleged infraction and the student’s age. This authorization to search shall also apply to all situations in which the student is under the jurisdiction of the Board. In the event that a search of student’s person, personal possessions, school-provided storage space, or vehicle reveals that the student is concealing material, the possession of which is prohibited by the Student Code of Conduct or by federal, state, or local law, school staff may confiscate said material and may notify law enforcement authorities or other agencies. Confiscated contraband including, but not limited to, suspected illegal drugs, weapons, or other harmful items shall be forwarded to law enforcement.
Section 2. Sending a Suspended Student Home During the School Day: When a student is suspended, the principal or designee shall attempt to reach the student’s parent/legal guardian to inform them of the school’s action and to request that they come pick up their child. If the parent/guardian is unable to come for their child, or if the principal cannot reach the parent/guardian, the student must remain on school property until the close of the school day. High school students who drove to school that day may be immediately released.
Notwithstanding this requirement, the principal or designee may remove a student from school property when he/she reasonably believes that immediate removal of the student is necessary to restore order or to protect persons on the school grounds. The removal of a student from class by the teacher, principal, or designee for the remainder of the subject period or school day shall be considered a temporary dismissal and not the first day of suspension.
Section 3. Limitation on Principal’s Power to Suspend: If the principal or designee investigates a student’s alleged misconduct and decides to take disciplinary action, they must investigate and take action on all alleged misconduct known to them at that time. Consequently, the most serious action that the principal or designee can take on his/her own authority for any and all misconduct by a particular student, known to him/her at any one time, is to give a ten (10) day out-of-school suspension with a referral to the Tribunal of School Officials.
Section 4. Detention: Teachers and/or school administrators may assign detention (D-Hall) as a consequence of inappropriate student behavior. D-Hall is held outside of normal school hours and a student assigned detention must make his/her own arrangements for transportation. When a student is assigned D-Hall, parents shall be notified in advance by school authorities.
Section 5. In-School Suspension: In-School Suspension (“ISS”) is a disciplinary measure that permits the student to attend school but prohibits him/her from attending his/her regular classes. Students assigned to ISS are not permitted to participate in or attend any school-sponsored event, function, or activity on the date(s) of their ISS assignment. Classwork assignments are sent to the student by his/her teachers. If the parent/guardian objects to a student’s ISS placement, other disciplinary consequences, including out-of-school suspension, may be assigned. Assignment of ISS shall be in accordance with District Policy JDD.
Section 6. Short-Term Suspension and Long-Term Suspensions: A student is suspended when he/she is denied the right to attend school. A suspension for not more than ten (10) consecutive school days is a Short-Term Suspension. A suspension for more than ten (10) consecutive school days is a Long-Term Suspension. The assignment of short-term suspension shall be in accordance with District Policy JDD and the provisions of this code. The assignment of long-term suspension shall be in accordance with District Policy JCEB and the provisions of this code. As a supplement and/or alternative to long-term suspension, the principal or designee may refer the student for placement at an alternative education program when such a program is available. Such a referral must be in accordance with District Policy JCEB and Part IV of this code.
While suspended, the student may not be on District property nor may the student be allowed to participate or attend any school-sponsored event, function, activity, or graduation.
During the time of the suspension, if school is not in session due to inclement weather or other reasons, the suspension time will be extended to cover any days missed. If a student’s suspension carries over the summer from one academic year to the next, the student must request permission from the principal in order to participate in any school-sponsored summer activities. Even if permission is given by the Principal, if the activity is a Georgia High School Association (GHSA) sanctioned event then GHSA by-laws will apply. Students who commit additional offenses during the summer are subject to additional penalties.
Section 7. Expulsion: A student is expelled when he/she is removed from all District property, activities, and events for a definite or indefinite period of time. Students who are expelled are withdrawn from the District on the date of the expulsion and they may not turn in make-up work or earn school credits. The expulsion of a student shall be in accordance with District Policy JCEB and the provisions of this code.
PART IV - STUDENT DISCIPLINARY TRIBUNALS
The Rome City Schools Board of Education has authorized the creation of a Tribunal of School Officials who will convene to conduct a hearing when a student is alleged to have committed: (a) An alleged assault or battery by a student upon a teacher or other school official or employee; (b) An alleged act of bullying has occurred for the third time in a school year; or (c) A Code of Conduct violation for which the student’s principal or designee recommends long-term suspension, expulsion, or placement in an Alternative Education Program.
Disciplinary tribunals are governed by District Policy JCEB and O.C.G.A. § 20-2-750 et seq. Tribunal hearings must be held no later than ten (10) school days after the beginning of the suspension unless the school system and the student’s parent/ guardian/attorney mutually agree to an extension. Both the District and the student are afforded an opportunity to present and respond to evidence, to examine and cross-examine witnesses, and have the right to be represented by legal counsel. While all tribunal hearings are electronically recorded, they are confidential and are not open to the public.
The Tribunal of School Officials (“Tribunal Panel”) will determine whether the student was in violation of the Student Code of Conduct. The burden of proof is by preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not) and shall be on the District. If the student is found to have violated the code, the Tribunal Panel shall then determine the appropriate punishment to be imposed they may consider the student’s entire student record and other evidence received at the hearing in support of, or in opposition to, the District’s recommended punishment. All decisions of the Tribunal Panel shall be determined by a 2/3 majority, but the individual votes of the officials are not disclosed.
The decision of the Tribunal Panel shall be final unless either party should appeal the decision to the Rome City Schools Board of Education within twenty (20) calendar days from the date the decision is rendered. The Board will consider the appeal in executive session and no new evidence and no oral argument may be presented to the Board on appeal. All consideration will be confined to the record of the proceedings at the tribunal hearing and the written appellate arguments, if any, filed by the parties. Any party may appeal the decision of the Rome City Schools Board of Education to the State Board of Education pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 20-2-1160 (b) through (f).
In the event, the student (18 years or older)/parent/guardian does not wish to contest the alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct for which a disciplinary hearing has been requested, the Student, by and through the parent/guardian if applicable, may voluntarily accept the consequences prescribed by the school by signing a Waiver of Disciplinary Hearing form. The waiver must be signed by the student, by and through the parent/guardian if applicable, and a school administrator and shall be approved by the Superintendent or designee. The decision to waive the hearing shall be final and cannot be appealed by the school or the student.
PART V: REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
Teachers are required to report, in accordance with O.C.G.A. § 20-2-737 and District Policy JDF, any student’s violation of the Student Code of Conduct which repeatedly or substantially interferes with the teacher’s ability to communicate effectively with the students in his/her class or with the ability of the students in his/her class to learn. Teachers shall report any such incidents to the principal or the principal’s designee within one school day of the most recent occurrence of such behavior. Such report shall not exceed one page and shall describe the behavior. The principal or the principal’s designee shall, within one day of receiving such report, send to the student’s parents or guardians a copy of the report, and information regarding how the principal or the principal’s designee may be contacted.
In addition to discipline of students by the District, student conduct may be reported to appropriate law enforcement authorities pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 20-2-1184. Some Student Code of Conduct violations may also result in criminal charges. School disciplinary action will be independent of any criminal or juvenile court decisions.
PART VI: REMOVAL OF DISRUPTIVE STUDENTS
Teachers have the authority to remove from the class a student who repeatedly or substantially interferes with the teacher’s ability to communicate effectively with the students in the class or with the ability of the student’s classmates to learn, where the student’s behavior is in violation of the Student Code of Conduct, provided that the teacher has previously filed a report pursuant to the Reporting Requirements section of this Code, or determines that such behavior of the student poses an immediate threat to the safety of the student’s classmates or the teacher. Principals will implement the District’s removal process in Policy JDF (Teacher Authority to Remove Students from the Classroom) and will fully support the authority of every teacher in his/her school to remove a student from the classroom pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 20-2-738.
PART VII: PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT PROCESS
Parental involvement processes are designed to enable parents, guardians, teachers, and school administrators to work together to improve and enhance student behavior and academic performance. These processes are aided when parents and guardians inform their children of the consequences, including potential criminal penalties, of underage sexual conduct and crimes for which a minor can be tried as an adult.
The student code of conduct shall be distributed to each student and the student’s parents or guardians during the first week of school and upon enrollment of each new student. The parents shall be requested to sign an acknowledgment of the receipt of the code of conduct and return promptly the acknowledgment to the school. The student code of conduct shall be available in the school office and each classroom.
PART VIII: CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
The names of student clubs and organizations, the mission or purpose of such clubs or organizations, the names of the club’s or organization’s contacts or faculty advisors, and a description of past or planned activities will be available in school provided information and/or on school websites for each school. This information is updated periodically throughout the year.
PART IX: GLOSSARY
Alternative Education Program / Alternative School – An educational setting for students who have exhibited chronic disciplinary behaviors, violated the student behavior code, or transitioned from a detention setting. This program is offered virtually until further notice.
Board – Rome City Schools Board of Education.
Bus Suspension - Removal or suspension from the bus for a specified period of time by the local school administrator. The student is expected to attend school, but the parents are responsible for providing transportation to school.
Code / Code of Conduct – The District’s Policy JCDA (Student Code of Conduct).
Detention (D-Hall) – A work/study session outside of regular school hours. Student makes arrangements for transportation.
Disciplinary Tribunal / Tribunal of School Officials - A three-member panel composed of three administrators which hears evidence presented by the school system, the student, and parents when a student is referred by the local school principal or his/her designee. The tribunal panel has the authority to make decisions ranging from returning the student to the local school to permanent expulsion of the student.
District – Rome City School District (RCS).
Expulsion – The removal from all District property, activities, and events for a definite or indefinite period of time. Schoolwork may not be made up or credit given.
In-School Suspension (ISS) – A disciplinary measure that permits the student to attend school, but prohibits him/her from attending his/her regular classes. Students assigned to ISS are not permitted to participate in extracurricular activities on the date of their ISS assignment. Classwork assignments are sent to the student by the teachers.
Long-Term Suspension - A suspension for more than ten (10) consecutive school days.
Non-Prescription Drug – Over-the-counter drug not authorized by a registered physician and not prescribed for the student. Student use is prohibited except in accordance with local school handbook.
Possession: – Having an article under one’s control at school, to and from school, or at school functions. Possession may be accomplished by having an article in one’s car, locker, clothing, bookbag, or having the article in the aforementioned.
Prescription Drug – A drug (medication) authorized by a registered physician and prescribed for the student. Student or parent should inform the school of the use of medically prescribed drug.
School Staff / School Employee – The terms include any person employed or otherwise authorized by Rome City Schools including, but not limited to, a teacher, student teacher, administrator, school bus driver, resources officer, or
other school official or employee, wherever he or she may be found. This term shall also include volunteers.
Short-Term Suspension – A suspension for not more than ten (10) consecutive school days.
Suspension (OSS) – A denial to a student of the right to attend school and to take part in any school function for a definite period of time.
Transmission – The act of passing any substance, article, or weapon prohibited by this discipline policy.
ROME CITY SCHOOLS STUDENT HANDBOOK
ADDRESSES and PHONE NUMBERS
It is imperative that the school office have a parent’s/ guardian’s current address and telephone number at all times. This is particularly important in cases of emergency. Please notify the school immediately when changing an address, telephone number, or place of employment. It is essential to have your home number, work number, and emergency telephone number of someone we can contact about a child, if we cannot reach the parents.
If we find that this procedure is not followed, then a referral will be made to the Rome City Schools Social Services Director.
ATTENDANCE (GENERAL)
Consistent attendance each day, all day, is necessary for progress in school. Something important is missed whenever a child is absent. A written excuse explaining the reason is required for each absence and each tardy. If a child is tardy, a parent must send a note or come into the office in person. Parents should not request that a child be excused unless it is absolutely necessary. If possible, medical, dental, and other appointments should be made for non-school hours and during school breaks.
Parents should not take their children out of school before the regular dismissal time except in cases of extreme importance. A written request for early dismissal from the parent to the teacher will greatly aid in planning your child’s activities for the day.
A student who is taken out of school before dismissal time is considered tardy.
A student will not be permitted to leave school premises during the school day unless called for at the office by a parent or guardian. If someone other than a parent or guardian is to take the child out of school prior to dismissal, the parent must write a note to the teacher or school office specifying who has been given this responsibility. The persons indicated on the registration sheet may also pick up children.
ATTENDANCE — GEORGIA STATE COMPULSORY ATTENDANCE LAW
Georgia’s compulsory attendance law requires that every parent, guardian, or other person residing within the State having control or charge of any child or children between their sixth and sixteenth birthdays shall enroll and send such child or children to a State
approved education program. (O.C.G.A. § 20-2-690.1).
Excused Absences
• Parent/Guardian notes will be accepted within 3 days of a student’s return to school.
• Parent/Guardian notes will be accepted for a maximum of 5 days.
• Absences beyond 5 days require medical notes or other acceptable documentation.
Positive Benefits of School Attendance
• The student becomes a part of the educational and social learning process.
• The student will have the opportunity to develop his/her own areas of interest for life skills.
• The student will be provided opportunities to make career choices.
Consequences of Failure to Comply with the Compulsory Attendance Law
• The student becomes deficient in developing life-long learning skills.
• The student will be referred to the Rome City/Floyd County Truancy Treatment Team to assist the family in developing a plan to comply with the compulsory attendance law. • The student is subject to failure.
Penalties for Failure to Comply with the Compulsory Attendance Law
• The student and parents/guardians may be referred to the Floyd County Department of Family Children Services (DFCS) on the grounds of educational neglect.
• The student and parents/guardians will be referred to the school Truancy Team and when necessary, to the Floyd County Juvenile Court for truancy.
• The parents/guardians will be subject to fines ($25 to $100 per unexcused absence), imprisonment (maximum 30 days per unexcused absence), and/or community service for each day if found to be in violation.
BEHAVIOR – STUDENT
The school will provide a safe and secure environment for every child. Every child will enjoy an environment which is conducive for learning. No child will infringe on another child’s right to learn. No exceptions will be made. In order for these expectations to be met, there are certain rules that students must follow.
Please refer to the Rome Board of Education policies including the Student Code of Conduct which is printed in this handbook.
BULLYING
The physical or emotional intimidation of one student to another will not be tolerated. Every child has the right to come to school without being harassed. Threats of any kind will be taken seriously. Students will be disciplined if they bully another student on the way to school, on campus, on the bus, or on the way home from school. Disciplinary action may also be necessary if off-campus behavior results in a disruption to the school environment. Bullying incident report forms are available at each school and the district office.
BUS TRANSPORTATION/PRIVILEGES
Bus transportation will be provided to the students to the school for the district they live. Rome City Schools provides transportation at no cost to the students. Extreme care must be taken to provide safe transportation for children.
During the school year, your child will be taught a bus safety unit that was developed by the Georgia Department of Education transportation department. This will include activities such as videos, PowerPoints, and other safety ideas. Students are encouraged to ride the bus. Students who come to school on the bus should return home on the bus unless a note from the parent is brought to school by the student with instructions for alternative transportation home.
Students are responsible for their behavior on the bus. School rules and Board Policies are in effect while students are riding the bus. Students who misbehave on the bus will be disciplined as if they were misbehaving in the classroom. Students may additionally be suspended from riding the bus for a period of time.
Please remember that the bus driver is in charge of the bus. Any misconduct on the part of a student will be reported to school officials.
CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT REPORTING
The State of Georgia requires that any principal, teacher, staff member or school official report all cases of suspected child abuse or neglect of children under the age of 18. The law also requires the reporting of injuries or neglect of minors and provides immunity for those reporting in good faith and provides a penalty for violation of the law.
CHILD FIND
Rome City Schools has an obligation under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to identify, locate, and evaluate all children from birth through the age of 21 who reside within the school district and are suspected of having disabilities that may result in the need of special education and related services. Rome City Schools serves children from ages 3 through 21 with identified special education needs. Children from birth to age 3 will be referred to the appropriate agencies for services. For more information concerning eligibility criteria and referral procedures, contact the Rome City Schools Special Education office at 706-236-5050.
COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH EDUCATION INSTRUCTION Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 20-2-143) and the Georgia Department of Education mandate that “Each local board of education shall prescribe a course of study in sex education and AIDS prevention instruction.” The Rome Board of Education has elected to place this instruction, as appropriate, within the context of its biology, health, character education, and guidance curricula.
In accordance with the current law requiring sex education in Georgia public schools, the State Board rule allows any parent or guardian of a child to whom a course of study in sex education is to be taught to elect, in writing, that the child did not receive the instruction. This letter should be received by the principal by September 30, 2019. Sex education materials approved by the health advisory committee will be available for review at the school, by appointment, beginning September 19, 2019.
DROP-OUTS
When a student desires to drop out of school after the age of sixteen, he/she must have the written permission of his/ her parents or guardian if under the age of eighteen prior to withdrawing. Prior to accepting such permission, a school administrator will have a conference with the student and parent/legal guardian within two school days of receiving notice of the intent of the student to withdraw. The purpose of the conference is to share with the student and parent/ guardian educational options available and the consequences of not earning a high school diploma.
FIELD TRIPS
Throughout the year, students leave school on field trips with particular learning objectives which correlate with classroom instruction.
Students are encouraged to eat a school sack lunch on all field trips.
Parental Permission for Field Trips
The parent will receive, well in advance, an outline of the trip with the purpose, time, and place clearly explained. It is the responsibility of the student to take the note home, have it signed by the parent or guardian, and to return it to the school in advance of the trip. Without a signed permission slip, the student cannot leave for a trip. Permission by telephone cannot be granted.
Field trips are an extracurricular activity. Students may lose the privilege of participating if they have had discipline concerns. A student may lose the privilege of going on the field trip up until the actual departure time. Misbehavior on a trip may result in the child missing future trips.
Parents Accompanying Students on Field Trips
Parents wishing to accompany students on any field trip must have participated in the Rome City Schools Volunteer Training prior to the field trip and provide their own transportation. These sessions are offered numerous times throughout the school year. Certification remains active for 3 years and must be renewed.
GIFTED PROGRAM
Students, grades kindergarten through twelve, in the Rome City Schools who demonstrate a high degree of intellectual, motivation and/or creative abilities, and/or excel in specific academic fields may be provided with special instructional
services. Eligibility criteria for placement in this program are determined by the Georgia Board of Education. Referrals for consideration for eligibility for gifted services may be made
by teachers, counselors, administrators, parents or guardians, peers, self and other individuals with thorough knowledge of the student’s abilities. For a summary of eligibility criteria or for further information about Rome City Schools Program for Gifted Students, please contact the Gifted Program teacher at your child’s school or visit the district website.
GRADING SCALE (ROME CITY SCHOOLS)
A = 90 - 100
B = 80 - 89
C = 70 - 79
F = 69 and below
GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING SERVICES
The guidance counselor works with students, parents and the school staff to help students achieve maximum growth mentally, emotionally, and socially. Students may contact the counsel or. The counselor sees students on an individual basis and in small groups and conducts classroom guidance activities.
HEAD LICE MANAGEMENT
Schools will take an active role in education about head lice and its prevention. The following procedures have been developed for dealing with the head lice problem.
1. Children showing active symptoms will be checked by the school nurse or his/her designee.
2. The parent will be asked to pick up any student who has nits/ lice present. An information sheet can be provided to inform parents about how to get rid of the infestation. The child having head lice will be excluded from class until he or she is picked up, treated, and lice/nit free. Students will be excused for that one day.
3. When the hair has been properly treated and the nits/lice removed, parents must bring the child to school with evidence of treatment used to be rechecked by the school nurse or school staff. Please note that students cannot ride the bus until they have been checked and cleared for return to class. If no head lice/ nits are found, the child will be readmitted to class. If the school nurse determines that an infestation remains, the parent must continue treatment at home until the nurse clears the child to return to class.
4. Per Rome City Schools attendance policy, a maximum of 3 days per school year are excusable due to nit/ head lice. Chronic or recurring cases that result in excessive absences will be referred to the attendance officer and/or school social worker.
JUVENILE COURT COLLABORATION
The success of a student’s educational experience is directly related to the quality of the teaching provided by the school system while the student is on campus; that is the responsibility of the school.
But the student’s educational success is also directly related to the involvement of the parent insuring that the student’s educational needs are met both while the student is at home and while the student is at school. The parent thus has a responsibility to their child to ensure coordination of the school’s educational plan for the student with efforts made at home to entitle the child to an effective education. Any parent who fails to meet this responsibility is depriving the child of his/ her right to an education.
Under certain circumstances the student’s teacher or school may find it necessary to request a school conference with the parent in order to coordinate the teacher’s efforts at school with that of the parent’s effort at home. These conferences are deemed necessary to ensure that the student benefits from the school’s educational plan for that student.
Every child has a right to an education, and under the law, is a deprived child if that education is not provided. It is the position of the Rome City Schools that parents have a responsibility to ensure that their child receives an effective education. To that end, it is the further position of Rome City Schools that school conferences with parents are necessary to ensure the student’s right to an education. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the parent to attend all requested school conferences. It is also the parent’s responsibility to participate in such conferences and to perform such actions as are listed in the plan to ensure the success of the child’s educational experience.The failure of the parent to attend school conferences or the failure of the parent to participate in, or cooperate with the educational plan developed at such conferences will result in a referral to the Floyd County Juvenile Court or DFCS for action against the parent(s) for educational deprivation of their child.
MEDICINE
Prescription Medication at School
The parent or guardian is responsible for transporting medication to the school office in its original container clearly labeled with student’s name. It must be in the most recent prescription bottle. The parent or guardian is responsible for completing any needed paperwork for medication to be given at school. Medication in an unlabeled container, an old prescription bottle, a bottle that has a name other than the student’s or expired medication will not be accepted.
Medications should all be stored in a school clinic or in an office in a locked cabinet as designated by the principal. Exceptions to this would be inhalers, epi-pens, or diabetes medication that has a physician order requiring the student to keep medication with them. The school must have a copy of this physician's order on file.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter medications (such as Tylenol, Advil, Dimetapp, etc.) will need to be provided by the parent if needed by a student while at school. It should be brought to the office by parent or guardian. It will need to be accompanied with a note from a physician stating what medication is for, dosage and frequency, and a note from the parent. Over-the-counter medication will also be kept in nurse’s clinic or an office in a locked cabinet as determined by the principal. Medication must be brought in the original labeled bottle. We will not accept expired medication.
MULTI-TIERED SYSTEM OF SUPPORT
Rome City Schools (RCS) is a Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) system. MTSS is an organizational and prevention framework that guides the RCS implementation of multi-level supports to achieve academic and behavioral success for all students. MTSS is data-driven, allowing for the use of Screenings and Progress Monitoring to identify and predict students who may be at risk for poor learning outcomes or who experience social/emotional needs, and/or behavioral concerns that impact learning.
MTSS is implemented in all RCS schools for academics and for behavior. Schools are encouraged to stay up-to-date with best practices through professional learning and success stories from across the RCS district. The MTSS elements of high-quality instructions, balanced assessment, and collaboration, are embedded with culturally responsive practices and are supported by RCS leadership. MTSS also provides the framework and structure for system initiatives, programs, and tools to be implemented within a school. The RCS initiatives of Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), social-emotional learning, restorative practices, TBRI and trauma-sensitive schools, mental health, and culturally responsive teaching are all supported within this framework.
MTSS AND MULTI-LEVEL SYSTEM OF SUPPORT
Within the MTSS framework, MTSS allows systematically providing student support along a continuum of intensity levels. The level of intensity is based on student understanding of instruction and intervention both academically and behaviorally. Within RCS, the multi-level system of support is a three-tiered structure designed to maximize student achievement in the general education setting. All students are supported through the RCS MTSS structure of support and instruction.
Tier 1: Whole Group
Tier 1 is high-quality, standards-based, differentiated instruction that ALL students receive from the general education teacher.
Tier 2: Provided to students needing additional support
Tier 2 includes academic interventions in addition to core instruction. General education teachers provide individualized targeted interventions for at-risk students. Teachers and school support staff including school psychologists, school social workers, and school counselors typically provide tier 2 behavioral (PBIS) interventions.
Tier 3: Intense interventions
In addition to high quality, standards-based, differentiated instruction, students receive targeted interventions with increased duration and intensity, frequent progress monitoring, with clearly defined goals provided by general education teachers or other trained teachers. Tier 3 interventions support students whose performance (academic or behavioral) as supported by Tier 2 progress monitoring data reinforce the need for Tier 3.
PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES
Conferences are held twice a year. It is the responsibility of the parents to attend these scheduled conferences and any other conferences necessary for the success of the student.
We must protect instructional time. Therefore, all conferences must be scheduled. Drop-in meetings will not be allowed. Teachers will not be interrupted during class time to take phone calls from parents or to meet with parents who were not previously scheduled. Teacher planning times will be made available. You may call the school at any time to arrange a phone conference or to schedule a meeting.
PBIS
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a decision-making framework that guides the selection, integration, and implementation of research-based behavioral practices and interventions. PBIS is a process for creating safer and more effective schools. It is a systems approach to enhancing the capacity of schools to educate all children by developing research-based, school-wide, and classroom behavior support systems. The process focuses on improving a school’s ability to teach and support positive behavior for all students. Rather than a prescribed program, PBIS provides systems for schools to design, implement, and evaluate effective school-wide, classroom, non-classroom, and student-specific plans. PBIS is a team-based process for systematic problem-solving, planning, and evaluation.
The Georgia Department of Education recognizes Rome City Schools as a successful PBIS School District as all schools within the RCS district meet criteria to be named a PBIS school and all have received advanced PBIS ratings from the GaDOE.
PROMOTION AND RETENTION
Refer to Grading and Promotion Criteria page at the back of the student agenda and Board Policy IHE (Promotion and Retention) found on the district website.
SCHOOL CLOSINGS (EMERGENCY)
When inclement weather occurs, district administrators will decide early if school will open. This decision should be broadcast on the local radio stations and Atlanta TV stations. Information will also be posted on our website, Facebook, Twitter, and Infinite Campus. Please do not call the school or Central Office. Those phone lines must be kept open to contact those who may live out of range of our local radio stations.
SCHOOL NUTRITION PROGRAM
Rome City Schools offers breakfast and lunch at no cost to all of Rome City students regardless of their income.
Each school offers a nutritious hot breakfast daily. Students are also offered cereal, 100% juice, fresh fruit, and milk daily. Start your child’s day off right with a nutritious meal at no cost to you.
Although we encourage all students to consume a cafeteria lunch, your child may bring his/her lunch. If so, we encourage you to pack nutritional meals and minimize “junk” food. Children are not allowed to bring cans or bottles of soda (Coke, etc.). No chewing gum is allowed at school.
Students (and parents/visitors) may not bring or have delivered “fast food” from McDonald’s, Burger King, Pizza Hut, etc. Please don’t ask for exceptions to this policy.
SECTION 504
Section 504 prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. On September 25, 2008, the President signed the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADA AA). The Act, effective January 1, 2009, emphasizes that the definition of disability should be construed in favor of broad coverage of individuals to the maximum extent permitted by the terms of the ADA. This ensures that the child with a disability has equal access to an education and allows the child to receive accommodations and modifications if needed.
Under Section 504, a student must be determined to: (1) have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities; or (2) have a record of such impairment; or (3) be regarded as having such impairment. Students’ eligibility for a 504 plan depends on whether or not their physical or mental disability severely impacts major life activities that can include but is not limited to:
• Breathing
• Self-care
• Hearing, seeing, or speaking
• Eating or sleeping
• Lifting or bending
• Thinking, concentrating, or learning
• Walking or standing
SEVERE WEATHER & SAFETY DRILLS
Rome City Schools is entrusted to provide a safe and secure learning for approximately 6,500 students. Due to this task, the school system works diligently to collaborate with local government and community partners to take necessary steps while planning for potential emergencies through the creation of our Emergency Operations Plan (both system-wide and school specific). Rome City Schools is focused on being prepared for man-made, natural, and technological hazards and threats. The school system’s preparedness is based on prevention, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery.
As part of the mitigation process, Rome City Schools schedules routine emergency exercises. This is in order to help students, faculty, and staff become accustomed to the different actions necessary to eliminate or reduce the threat of injuries or loss of life and lessen the possibility of property damage in the
event of an actual emergency. Fire drills, severe weather drills, civil threat drills, and medical emergency drills are examples of exercises that are practiced throughout the school system on a regular basis.
Emergency exercises serve an important purpose. The more our schools are trained on their Emergency Operations Plan, the more effectively they will be able to act before, during, and after an emergency to lessen the impact on life and property. Exercises also provide opportunities to practice with our local government and community partners (e.g., first responders, local emergency management personnel). It is a priority of Rome City Schools to provide a safe and secure learning environment for each of our students. This priority will continue to drive our system to develop effective and practical methods of safety and security for our educational environment.
STUDENT ILLNESSES
District policy reflects the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control for controlling the spread of flu and other communicable diseases.
If a student has a fever of 100 degrees or more during the school day, a parent or guardian will be required to pick up the student.
School clinics are not equipped to keep an ill student for a prolonged period of time. If a parent is unable to pick up a child, another adult may be authorized to do so in emergencies by notifying the School Nurse or the Attendance Office.
Please remember that students must be fever‐free for 24 hours before returning to school, without the aid of fever‐reducing medications (i.e., Tylenol, Advil, cold medications containing acetaminophen). The CDC defines fever as 100 degrees or more. Thus, a student who has a temperature of 100 or more in the evening should not attend school the next day.
TESTING
Administrators, testing coordinators, test examiners, and proctors have gone through extensive training on test security, distribution and collection of testing materials, administration of the test, and professional ethics. If there is a breach of testing security, professional ethics, improper handling of materials, or improper administration of the tests, the state has provided procedures that will be followed. The procedures include an investigation and protocol for reporting to the state department.
For more information regarding testing security, please contact the district’s testing office at 706-236-5050.
For more information regarding testing, including our district calendar and state parent resources, please visit our district website. For specific information about testing in your school, please contact your child’s school.
TITLE I
Title I is a federally-funded program for elementary,
middle, and high schools. Through Title I, money is given to school districts around the country based on the number of low-income families in each district. Each district uses its Title I money for extra educational services for children most in need of educational help. The focus of the Title I program is on helping all students meet the same high standards expected of all children. The following schools are Title I Schoolwide program schools:
The Rome City School District is constantly striving to improve the educational program for our students. Your feedback and input are vital in continuous school improvement. Parents are invited to share their thoughts, comments, questions, and concerns regarding each of the following important items:
You may provide your feedback at any time by contacting your school principal, the district Title I office at 706-236-5050, or by filling out a feedback form located in each school office, the district office, or on the school and district websites. These forms may be returned to your school office. Additionally, please be sure to fill out the parent survey annually in January. This survey will be sent home on paper and will be available electronically. We take pride in hiring excellent teachers in Rome City Schools. We strive to ensure all of our teachers and paraprofessionals are professionally qualified. If a school has hired a teacher who has been assigned or has taught for four or more consecutive weeks without the applicable state certification or licensure requirements including local professional qualifications, the school must notify parents in a timely manner. You have a right to request information regarding your child’s teacher’s professional qualifications. In compliance with the requirements of the Every Student Succeeds Act, the Rome City School District would like to inform you that you may request information about the professional qualifications of your student’s teacher(s) and/or paraprofessional(s).
The following information may be requested.
• Whether the student’s teacher -
• has met State qualifications and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction;
• is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which State qualifications or licensing criteria have been waived; and
• is teaching in the field of discipline of the certification of the teacher.
• Whether the child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.
If you wish to request information concerning your child’s teacher’s and/or paraprofessional’s qualifications, please contact your school principal or the district Title I office at 706- 236-5050.
If you have a question, concern, comment, or complaint regarding Title I, you may fill out a complaint form located in each school office, the district office, or available on the school and district websites. This form may be turned in to the school or district office. Please contact the Title I office at 706-236-5050. Information regarding complaint procedures can be found on the district’s website.
VISITORS
You are encouraged to visit and volunteer at your child’s school. However, all visitors must receive permission from the school office and complete the RCS Classroom Observer Confidentiality Agreement before going to any other part of the building or school grounds and wear a visitor’s badge while in the building. Visitors must check into the school office before going to a classroom.
VOLUNTEERS
Each year, many parents and community residents assist in the instructional program not only by volunteering their time to work in the library, clinic, and with special area teachers, but also by sharing their special areas of expertise in the classroom. Please contact the school if you are interested in serving as a volunteer - either regularly or on special occasions.
We do require all volunteers to participate in the Rome City Schools Volunteer Training prior to volunteering at the school. These sessions are offered numerous times throughout the school year.
WATER SAFETY AND SWIMMING LESSONS
Water safety and swimming skills are crucial life-saving abilities that every individual, especially children, should acquire. Drowning is a significant cause of accidental deaths, and being prepared in and around water can prevent tragic incidents.
Rome City Schools is dedicated to promoting water safety. Here are some places where you can enroll your child swimming lessons:
Remember, it's never too early or too late to learn how to swim. Whether you are a parent looking to enroll your child or an adult seeking to enhance your swimming skills, taking swimming lessons can be a life-changing decision that ensures safety and enjoyment around water.
WITHDRAWING A STUDENT
When withdrawing a student from school, please notify the school office several days in advance. This will enable teachers to complete all records prior to the student’s last day in school.
We will provide you with a “transfer form” sheet. This form should be hand carried to your child’s new school so proper placement may be made. Your new school will then request your child’s record.
Parent and Student Sign-off page is at the front of Student Handbook.
The Rome Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, or disability in education programs, activities, or employment. Persons seeking information regarding Section 504/ADA, Title IX, or related issues should contact: Superintendent, Rome City Schools, 508 E. Second St., Rome, Georgia 30161.
For Elementary Schools:
1. In KINDERGARTEN, because the skills are developmental in nature, to be promoted a kindergarten student must meet or master the performance standards on the majority of the elements that are assessed by the Georgia Kindergarten Inventory of Developing Skills (GKIDS) by the end of the school year.
2. In GRADES 1 and 2, a student must pass English/ language arts/reading and mathematics to be considered for promotion.
3. In GRADES 3, 4, 5, and 6, a student must pass mathematics, English language arts/reading, and either science or social studies to be considered for promotion.
For Rome Middle School:
1. Students will receive a grade each nine weeks in all courses. The two nine-week grades will be a record to determine the semester grade. Then the semester grades will be averaged to determine a grade for the year.
2. For a student to be promoted to the next grade level, he/she must pass:
3. According to RCS Board Policy JBC (4) unit credit shall be awarded for courses successfully completed in the middle grades that meet 9-12 state requirements under the following conditions:
shall not be used in the calculation of school grade point averages, class rankings, Honor Student status, Valedictorian, and Salutatorian standings. These grades may not be included in HOPE GPA calculations per state rules.
For Rome High School:
1. To be promoted to the 10th grade, a student must have earned five (5) Units.
2. To be promoted to the 11th grade, a student must have earned eleven (11) Units.
3. To be promoted to the 12th grade, a student must have earned seventeen (17) Units and the ability to graduate at the end of the year, based on previous coursework.
All students entering high school in 2011 or after must meet graduation requirements as specified in Rome Board of Education Policy IHF AND are required to take all End of Course (EOC) assessments. All EOCs will count as 20% of the overall grade in each course. If the combined course grade and EOC grade result in an overall failing grade, the student must retake the course AND the EOC assessment associated with the course to obtain an overall passing grade.
The Rome City Schools Board of Education considers regular school attendance essential for educational progress. A student must maintain regular school attendance in compliance with Board Policy (JB) to be considered for promotion.
JULY 1-5: District Closed
JULY 4: Independence Day
JULY 22-25: New Teacher Orientation
JULY 26-31: Pre-Planning
AUGUST 1: Pre-Planning
AUGUST 2: First Day of School
AUGUST 30: Independent Learning Day
SEPTEMBER 2: Labor Day / School District Closed
SEPTEMBER 5: Progress Reports
OCTOBER 4: End of First Nine Weeks
OCTOBER 7-11: Fall Break / Schools Closed
OCTOBER 14: Flexible Learning Day / Parent Conferences
OCTOBER 17: Report Cards
NOVEMBER 14: Progress Reports
NOVEMBER 25-29: Thanksgiving Holidays / Schools Closed
NOVEMBER 28-29: School District Closed
DECEMBER 20: End of Second Nine Weeks
DECEMBER 20: Independent Learning Day
DECEMBER 23-31: Winter Holidays / School District Closed
JANUARY 1: New Year’s Day / School District Closed
JANUARY 2-3: Teacher In-Service / Schools Closed
JANUARY 6: Report Cards
JANUARY 6: Resume Classes
JANUARY 20: MLK, Jr. Observance / School District Closed
FEBRUARY 6: Progress Reports
FEBRUARY 14: Independent Learning Day
FEBRUARY 17: Presidents Day / School District Closed
MARCH 11: End of Third Nine Weeks
MARCH 14: Teacher In-Service / Schools Closed
MARCH 17: Independent Learning Day
MARCH 18: Flexible Learning Day / Parent Conferences
MARCH 20: Report Cards
APRIL 7-11: Spring Break / School District Closed
APRIL 17: Progress Reports
MAY 21: Last Day of School
MAY 21: End of Fourth Nine Weeks
MAY 22-23: Post-Planning
MAY 24: Rome High School Graduation
MAY 26: Memorial Day / School District Closed
JUNE 19: Juneteenth / School District Closed