SECONDARY ROUND ROCK ISD
Student-Parent Handbook
2017-2018
Round Rock ISD Secondary Schools Cedar Ridge High School CD Fulkes Middle School Ridgeview Middle School Success High School
McNeil High School Deerpark Middle School Pearson Ranch Middle School
Round Rock High School Cedar Valley Middle School Chisholm Trail Middle School GOALS Walsh Middle School
Stony Point High School Early College High School Hernandez Middle School Hopewell Middle School
Westwood High School Canyon Vista Middle School Grisham Middle School Round Rock Opp. Center
Steve Flores, Ph.D. Superintendent of Schools
August 2017 Dear Parents and Guardians, We are excited to start another fantastic school year. Thank you for choosing Round Rock ISD for your child(ren) this school year. Our team of effective educators works to meet the needs of every student that enters our school doors. We understand that education is most effective in partnership with our families. With that in mind, we ask that you partner with us, as we build a destination school district for the state and nation. When we speak about world class schools in Round Rock ISD, we refer to our standard in this district of providing educational excellence where students can exceed at a national and global level. We are fortunate to have talented students, schools and staff that have already reached state and national recognition: ● ● ● ●
RRISD campuses earned 115 Distinction Designations by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) in 2016. Westwood High School Associate Principal Kim Hodge was named the recipient of the 2017 College Board Advanced Placement (AP) Award for Administrators for the Southwest region. Sixty students were named a National Merit Scholarship finalist, which recognizes exceptional academic achievement. Round Rock ISD graduates for the 2016 - 2017 school year earned a collective $32,917,467 in scholarships from colleges around the nation.
We have amazing students, dedicated staff members, supportive parents, and outstanding community members who contribute to the success of our students and schools. Due to our committed stakeholders, our students and staff compete with the best schools in the state and nation, putting Round Rock ISD in a position to move from a first class school district to a world class school district for every child. This Student-Parent Handbook will help you learn more about the programs and resources that are available to you and your child. An important section is the Student Code of Conduct, which outlines the rules that are necessary to provide a secure, safe, and orderly learning environment. Discussing these resources and regulations with your student(s) is a great step toward assuring they will get the most out of their school year. I also encourage you to stay up-to-date on district and campus news. Please check the district’s website regularly, www.roundrockisd.org, follow district and school news on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, and sign up for the district and your campus e-News to receive important and timely information.
Thank you for choosing Round Rock ISD to educate your child. Respectfully,
Steve Flores, Ph. D. Superintendent of Schools
Round Rock Independent School District 2017-2018 Student-Parent Handbook
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Round Rock Independent School District Administration (512) 464-5000 Board of Trustees Diane M. Cox, President Nikki Gonzales, Vice President Suzi J. David, Secretary Charles “Chad” Chadwell Edward L. Hanna Mason Moses TBD Dr. Steve Flores Superintendent of Schools (512) 464-5022
Regularly scheduled school board meetings are held the third Thursday of each month at the Round Rock High School Lecture Hall,300 Lake Creek Drive, or other designated locations as announced in the board agenda. Board meetings held at the Round Rock High School Lecture Hall are broadcast on Time Warner Communications Round Rock Cable Channel 10.
Round Rock Independent School District 2017-2018 Student-Parent Handbook
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Pearson Ranch Middle School
Ridgeview Middle School
Voigt Elem School
Gattis Elem School
Forest Creek Elem School
Sommer Elem School
Old Town Elem School
Great Oaks Elem School
Fern Bluff Elem School
Deep Wood Elem School
Cactus Ranch Elem School
www.roundrockisd.org
Round Rock ISD ONE FAMILY
Wells Branch Elem School
Pond Springs Elem School
Live Oak Elem School
Joe Lee Johnson Elem School
Jollyville Elem School
Forest North Elem School
England Elem School
Bluebonnet Elem School
Elementary DAEP
Blackland Prairie Elem School
Callison Elem School
Chandler Oaks Elem School
Brushy Creek Elem School
Walsh Middle School
GOALS
Chisholm Trail Middle School
Cedar Valley Middle School
Heidi Flynn
Area Director of Academics
Berkman Elem School
Success High School
Deerpark Middle School
CD Fulkes Middle School
Lisa Roberts
Area Director of Academics
Union Hill Elem School
Teravista Elem School
Robertson Elem School
Herrington Elem School
Double File Elem School
Caldwell Heights Elem School
Hopewell Middle School
Hernandez Middle School
Early College High School
Sunny Wren
Area Director of Academics
Round Rock High School
McNeil High School
Cedar Ridge High School
Area Director of Academics Sania Ali
Natalie Nichols
Carla Amacher
John Yonker
Dr. Nancy Guerrero Stony Point High School
A REA S UP ERI N TE N D E N T O F STONY POI NT LEA RN I N G C O M M UN I TY
AREA SUPERI NT ENDENT OF ROUND ROCK L EARNI NG COM M UNI T Y
AR E A S U PE R I N T E N D E N T O F M CN E IL LE AR N I N G C OM M U NI TY
AR E A S U PE RI N T E N D E N T O F C E DA R R ID G E L E A RN IN G C O M M U N IT Y
Spicewood Elem School
Purple Sage Elem School
Laurel Mountain Elem School
Caraway Elem School
Canyon Creek Elem School
Anderson Mill Elem School
Round Rock Opp. Center
Grisham Middle School
Canyon Vista Middle School
Efrain Olivio
Area Director of Academics
Westwood High School
Becky Donald
AR EA S U PER INTEND ENT O F WES TWO O D LEAR NING CO MMU NITY
Laurie Lanier - Cedar Ridge and Westwood 464-5092 Gabriele Miller - Stony Point and McNeil 464-5031 Stephanie Cheatham - Round Rock 464-5131
Dr. Steve Flores Superintendent of Schools Dr. Daniel Presley Senior Chief of Schools and Innovation
Round Rock ISD Learning Communities
For more information about the Round Rock ISD Learning Communities please contact:
Executive Director of Special Education/504
Laura Segers
Executive Director of State and Federal
Director of Bilingual / ESL Maria Green
Director of Title I and Prekindergarten Margo Vogelphol
Marie Gonzales
Area Director of Special Education Westwood LC Kelli McAnally Area Director of Special Education Stony Point LC Steven Teter Area Director of Special Education, Round Rock LC Melinda Bracamontez Area Director of Special Education, Cedar Ridge LC Angela Solis Area Director of Special Education, McNeil LC Julie Johnston
For more information about the Round Rock ISD Learning Communities please contact:
Executive Assistant, Chief of Teaching and Learning Angie Rodriguez 512-464-5033 Executive Assistant, Teaching and Learning Sara Marks 512-464-5986 Executive Assistant, Future Readiness Margie Davis 512-464-5967 Executive Assistant, State and Federal Yolanda Dutton 512-464-5072 Executive Assistant, Special Education LeAnn Llewelyn 512-464-5140
Cedar Ridge High School Instructional Coaches
Sania Ali
Cedar Ridge Area Director of Academics
McNeil High School Instructional Coaches
Lisa Roberts
McNeil Area Director of Academics
Round Rock High School Instructional Coaches
Heidi Flynn
Round Rock Area Director of Academics
Stony Point High School Instructional Coaches
Sunny Wren
Stony Point Area Director of Academics
Westwood High School Instructional Coaches
Dr. Efrain Olivo
Westwood Area Director of Academics
Dr. Steve Flores Superintendent of Schools Mandy Estes Chief of Teaching and Learning
Round Rock ISD Learning Communities
Director of Curriculum Darrell Emanuel
Ryan Smith
Executive Director Executive Director of Future of Teaching and Readiness Learning
Dr. Lora Darden
Director of Counselor Services Dr. Christina Wiswell Director of Instructional Technology Jeff Uselman
Director of Professional Development Edie Binns
(vertically aligned by campus)
ITS
Director of Career Technical Education Sheri Bonds Director of Advanced Academics Michelle Swain Director of Community Education Lisa Greinert Director of RtI Kimberly Berry-Corie Director of Library Services Ami Uselman
www.roundrockisd.org
Round Rock ISD ONE FAMILY
Round Rock Independent School District Graduate Profile The following characteristics are expected of a Round Rock ISD graduate: Seeks Knowledge and Understanding ● Initiates own learning ● Has a foundation in core academic areas ● Knows of and appreciates the arts and humanities ● Uses effective learning techniques to acquire and apply knowledge ● Applies numerical reasoning strategies to problems ● Understands world issues and current events ● Takes intellectual risks in learning ● Exhibits enthusiasm for learning in life Thinks Critically and Solves Problems ● Defines problems, hypothesizes, and becomes actively involved in creative problem solving ● Organizes and processes information productively ● Generates new ideas ● Analyzes and adapts to changing environments ● Makes decisions based on facts Listens and Communicates Effectively ● Exchanges ideas and information in writing, verbally, and visually ● Communicates effectively in a second language Uses Technology as a Tool ● Selects appropriate tools and procedures to accomplish tasks and create products ● Uses technology to access, analyze, organize, and process information ● Consistently applies technical reasoning skills Interacts Effectively with Others ● Develops and maintains positive relationships with others ● Works successfully in teams ● Leads by communicating ideas and motivating others ● Works collaboratively with persons of different beliefs, interests and backgrounds to build consensus ● Plans and acts as a systems thinker ● Knows and appreciates cultural and linguistic diversity Exhibits Strong Personal Qualities ● Demonstrates initiative and perseverance ● Identifies personal goals ● Accepts responsibility for his/her own actions ● Maintains wellness and balance in life ● Recognizes and responds to societal needs ● Values and participates in the democratic process ● Has an interest in issues of social justice and equity
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PREFACE The Round Rock Independent School District is an outstanding school District where children truly come first. Our District has thirty-three elementary schools, ten middle schools, five high schools, and alternative elementary and secondary schools. Our teachers and administrators are dedicated professionals who are committed to providing your children the best possible education. We are proud of our students and their efforts throughout their school careers. The RRISD STUDENT-PARENT HANDBOOK and CODE OF CONDUCT contain information needed by both students and parents during the school year. The Student-Parent Handbook contains information about the school with which you should be familiar. Information in this book is based upon campus or District policy or procedures, Texas Education Agency regulations, or state law. The RRISD Student Code of Conduct is the District’s discipline management plan required by TEA. This section contains the consequences for wrong or inappropriate behavior and is intended to promote school safety. Information in this section is either required by state law or has been approved by the RRISD Board of Trustees. If the information in the Student-Parent Handbook conflicts with information in the Student Code of Conduct, the latter shall take precedence. More information about the high school may be obtained from the High School Course Catalog and other sources of information. Policy changes will be made as necessary; students are asked to note such changes in their handbook. Information, rules, and clear expectations are the foundation for harmony and good human relations. Students and parents must be familiar with this Handbook, Code of Conduct, and other school information. Furthermore, students and parents are encouraged to ask questions and make constructive suggestions relevant to their school. The purpose of this handbook is to provide information about school procedures and practices in the Round Rock Independent School District. We hope this information will be useful to you and your family during the school year.
PLEASE NOTE We strongly recommend that students and parents review the contents of this Handbook/Code of Conduct and keep it as a reference during the school year. Please sign the form on the back of the booklet. The signed form must be returned to the classroom teacher within 10 days from the receipt of the handbook. Any changes in the handbook or Student Code of Conduct as a result of interpretation of recent legislation will replace any existing information and will be provided for students and parents to view at the District’s website.
Reviewed by the Round Rock Independent School District Board of Trustees August 2017
Round Rock Independent School District 2017-2018 Student-Parent Handbook
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Round Rock Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, gender or disability in employment or in providing education services, activities, and programs, including CTE programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, Title XI of the Educational Amendments of 1972, and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA),as amended, which incorporates and expands upon the requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. The following district representatives/departments have been designated to coordinate compliance with these legal requirements: Title IX Coordinator for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of gender: Lindsey McPheeters at (512) 464-5451. All concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of disability should be addressed to the District’s Department of Special Education/504 Services at (512) 464-5140. All other concerns regarding discrimination should be addressed to Cathy Malerba, Executive Director of Assessment & Audit at (512) 464-5109.
District Policies The Policy-On-Line service of the Round Rock Independent School District’s Board Policy Manual is provided for the convenience of persons interested in the school district. The manual includes policies adopted by the RRISD Board of Trustees, administrative regulations, and/or exhibits prepared by the administrative staff and reviewed by the Policy Committee. The Internet address for the District’s home page is www.roundrockisd.org. Since Board policy is subject to change, you may request a copy of the most current Policy(s) text by calling the District’s Department of Governmental Relations at (512) 464-5036.
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2017- 2018 RRISD SCHOOL DIRECTORY HIGH SCHOOLS HIGH SCHOOLS Cedar Ridge 2801 Gattis School Rd. Round Rock, TX 78664 512-704-0100 Fax: 512-704-0280 Lynette Thomas, Principal Early College High School ACC Round Rock Campus 4400 College Park Drive Round Rock, TX 78665 512-704-1650 Fax: 512-704-1690 Clarissa Rodriguez, Principal McNeil 5720 McNeil Rd. Austin, TX 78729 512-464-6300 Fax: 512-464-6550 Courtney Acosta, Principal Round Rock 300 Lake Creek Dr. Round Rock, TX 78681 512-464-6000 Fax: 512-464-6190 TBD, Principal
Westwood 12400 Mellow Meadow Dr. Austin, TX 78750 512-464-4000 Fax: 512-464-4020 Mario Acosta, Principal
MIDDLE SCHOOLS C. D. Fulkes 300 West Anderson Ave. Round Rock, TX 78664 512-428-3100 Fax: 512-428-3240 TBD, Principal Canyon Vista 8455 Spicewood Springs Austin, TX 78759 512-464-8100 Fax: 512-464-8210 Nicole Hagerty, Principal Cedar Valley 8139 Racine Trail Austin, TX 78717 512-428-2300 Fax: 512-428-2420 Matt Groff, Principal
Round Rock Opportunity Center 931 Luther Peterson Pl. Round Rock, TX 78664 512-428-2900 Fax: 512-428-2943 René Posey, Principal
Chisholm Trail 500 Oakridge Round Rock, TX 78681 512-428-2500 Fax: 512-428-2629 Steven Swain, Principal
Stony Point 1801 Bowman Rd. Round Rock, TX 78664 512-428-7000 Fax: 512-428-7280 Anthony Watson, Principal
Deerpark 8849 Anderson Mill Rd. Austin, TX 78729 512-464-6600 Fax: 512-464-6740 Jonathan Smith, Principal
Success High School 500 Gattis School Road Round Rock, TX 78664 512-704-1300 Fax: 512-704-1390 Thomasine Stewart, Principal
Grisham 10805 School House Lane Austin, TX 78750 512-428-2650 Fax: 512-428-2790 Paige Hadziselimovic, Principal
Hernandez 1901 Sunrise Rd. Round Rock, TX 78664 512-424-8000 Fax: 512-424-8440 Nachelle Scott, Principal Hopewell 1535 Gulf Way Round Rock, TX 78664 512-464-5200 Fax: 512-464-5349 Lynda Garinger, Principal Ridgeview 1400 Via Sonoma Trail Round Rock, TX 78664 512-424-8400 Fax: 512-424-8540 Travis Mutscher, Principal Pearson Ranch 8510 Pearson Ranch Road Austin, TX 78717 512-704-1500 Fax: 512-704-1590 Kim Winters, Principal Walsh 3850 Walsh Ranch Blvd. Round Rock, TX 78681 512-704-0800 Fax: 512-704-0890 Dr. Brenda Agnew, Principal
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
Round Rock Independent School District 2017-2018 Student-Parent Handbook
Anderson Mill 10610 Salt Mill Hollow Austin, TX 78750 512-428-3700 Fax: 512-428-3790 Trana Allen, Principal Berkman 400 West Anderson Ave. Round Rock, TX 78664 512-464-8250 Fax: 512-464-8315 Kathy Cawthorn, Principal
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Blackland Prairie 2005 Via Sonoma Trail Round Rock, TX 78664 512-424-8600 Fax: 512-424-8690 Sue Hildebrand, Principal
Chandler Oaks 3800 Stone Oak Dr. Round Rock, TX 78681 512-704-0400 Fax: 512-704-0690 Kelley Hirt, Principal
Great Oaks 16455 Great Oaks Dr. Round Rock, TX 78681 512-464-6850 Fax: 512-464-6930 Heath Frazer, Principal
Bluebonnet 1010 Chisholm Valley Dr. Round Rock, TX 78681 512-428-7700 Fax: 512-428-7790 Sharon Wilkes, Principal
Deep Wood 705 St. Williams Dr. Round Rock, TX 78681 512-464-4400 Fax: 512-464-4494 Reba Mussey, Principal
Herrington 2850 Paloma Lake Blvd. Round Rock, TX 78665 512-704-1900 Fax: 512-704-1990 Julie Nelson, Principal
Brushy Creek 3800 Stonebridge Round Rock, TX 78681 512-428-3000 Fax: 512-428-3080 Valerie Tidwell, Principal
Double File Trail 2400 Chandler Creek Blvd. Round Rock, TX 78664 512-428-7400 Fax: 512-428-7490 Abby Duffy, Principal
Joe Lee Johnson 2800 Sauls Drive Austin, TX 78728 512-704-1400 Fax: 512-704-1490 Gabi Nino, Principal
Cactus Ranch 3201 Golden Oak Circle Round Rock, TX 78681 512-424-8000 Fax: 512-424-8090 Vicki Crain, Principal
Elsa England 8801 Pearson Ranch Road Austin, TX 78717 512-704-1200 Fax: 512-704-1290 Jana Stowe, Principal
Jollyville 6720 Corpus Christi Austin, TX 78729 512-428-2200 Fax: 512-428-2299 Scott Morgan, Principal
Caldwell Heights 4010 Eagles Nest St. Round Rock, TX 78664 512-428-7300 Fax: 512-428-7390 Barbara Bergman, Principal
Fern Bluff 17815 Park Valley Round Rock, TX 78681 512-428-2100 Fax: 512-428-2160 Elizabeth Wilson, Principal
Laurel Mountain 10111 D K Ranch Rd. Austin, TX 78759 512-464-4300 Fax: 512-464-4390 Jan Richards, Principal
Callison 1750 Thompson Trail Round Rock, TX 78664 512-704-0700 Fax: 512-704-0790 Krista Kuwamura, Principal
Forest Creek 3505 Forest Creek Dr. Round Rock, TX 78664 512-464-5350 Fax: 512-464-5430 Denise Sharp, Principal
Live Oak 8607 Anderson Mill Rd. Austin, TX 78729 512-428-3800 Fax: 512-428-3890 Katie Holding, Principal
Canyon Creek 10210 Ember Glen Dr. Austin, TX 78726 512-428-2800 Fax: 512-428-2890 April Crawford, Principal
Forest North 13414 Broadmeade Austin, TX 78729 512-464-6750 Fax: 512-464-6794 Amy Jacobs, Principal
2200 Chaparral Dr. Round Rock, TX 78681 512-428-7600 Fax: 512-428-7690 Leah Ionnotti, Principal
Caraway 11104 Oak View Dr. Austin, TX 78759 512-464-5500 Fax: 512-464-5590 Katrina Bailey, Principal
Gattis 2920 Round Rock Ranch Round Rock, TX 78664 512-428-2000 Fax: 512-428-2065 Jennifer Lucas, Principal
Round Rock Independent School District 2017-2018 Student-Parent Handbook
Pond Springs 7825 Elk Horn Mountain Tr. Austin, TX 78729 512-464-4200 Fax: 512-464-4290 Brooke Elarms, Principal
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Purple Sage 11801 Tanglebriar Trail Austin, TX 78750 512-428-3500 Fax: 512-428-3590 Sara Nelson, Principal
Spicewood 11601 Olson Austin, TX 78750 512-428-3600 Fax: 512-428-3690 Jiae Kim, Principal
Xenia Voigt 1201 Cushing Dr. Round Rock, TX 78664 512-428-7500 Fax: 512-428-7590 Cheryl Hester, Principal
Robertson 1415 Bayland Round Rock, TX 78664 512-428-3300 Fax: 512-428-3370 Patricia Ephlin, Principal
Teravista 4418 Teravista Club Dr. Round Rock, TX 78665 512-704-0500 Fax: 512-704-0590 Michael Wakefield, Principal
Wells Branch 14650 Merriltown Dr. Austin, TX 78728 512-428-3400 Fax: 512-428-3490 Belinda Cini, Principal
Sommer 16200 Avery Ranch Blvd. Austin, TX 78717 512-704-0600 Fax: 512-704-0690 Nancy Varljen, Principal
Union Hill 1511 Gulf Way Round Rock, TX 78664 512-424-8700 Fax: 512-424-8790 Kimberly Connelly, Principal
Elementary DAEP 8801 Pearson Ranch Road Austin, TX 78717 512-464-0961 Fax: 512-464-5922 Barry Ryan, Principal
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2017-2018
Student Holiday/Staff Development/Teacher Work Day
ACADEMIC CALENDAR
Student and Staff Holiday First/Last Day of Classes
Round Rock Independent School District l roundrockisd.org
Elementary School Hours 7:40 - 2:55 Middle School Hours 8:20 - 3:35 High School Hours 9:05 - 4:20
*BASED ON 435 MINUTE DAY
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APRIL
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AUGUST 10-21......................................Staff Development/Preparation 22 ........................................First Day of School for Students SEPTEMBER 4....................................Labor Day/Student and Staff Holiday OCTOBER 9-10......................Student Holiday/Staff Development Day NOVEMBER 20-24........................................................Thanksgiving Holiday
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DECEMBER 21.......................Last Day of Classes/First Semester Ends 22................................................................Teacher Work Day 25-29.....................Winter Break/Student and Staff Holiday JANUARY 1-5..........................Winter Break/Student and Staff Holiday 8............................Student Holiday/Staff Development Day 9.......................................Classes Begin for Second Semester 15................Martin Luther King, Jr. Day/Student and Staff Holiday
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MARCH 12-16 ....................Spring Break/Student and Staff Holiday 30 ...........................................................Student/Staff Holiday MAY 25................................................................Last Day of Classes 28..................................................Memorial Day/Staff Holiday 29......................Bad Weather Days #1/Teacher Work Day 30.......................Bad Weather Days #2/Staff Development 31...................................................................Staff Development
FEBRUARY 19-20....................Student Holiday/Staff Development Day
Calendar Subject to Change
ROUND ROCK INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT STUDENT HOLIDAYS & IMPORTANT DATES (* Indicates student holidays) First Day of School Labor Day Columbus Day/Secondary Staff Development Thanksgiving Holiday Staff Prep Day/Student Holiday Winter Break January Staff Prep Day/Student Holiday Martin Luther King Day Staff Development/Student Holiday Spring Break Student and Staff Holiday Last Day of School High School Graduations Staff Holiday Staff Development/Prep Day/Bad Weather Day #1/#2
August 22 September 4* October 9-10* November 20-24* December 22* December 25-Jan 5* January 8* January 15* February 19-20* March 12-16* March 30* May 25 May 25-26 May 28 May 29-31*
2017-2018 SCHOOL CALENDAR FIRST SEMESTER (80 Instructional Days)
SECOND SEMESTER (88 Instructional Days)
1 Six Weeks – August 22– September 29
4 Six Weeks – January 9 – February 23
st
nd
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Six Weeks – October 2– November 10
rd
3 Six Weeks – November 13 – December 21
Round Rock Independent School District 2017-2018 Student-Parent Handbook
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5 Six Weeks – February 26 – April 13 th
6 Six Weeks – April 16 – May 25
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Table of Contents Welcome Letter ...........................................................................................................................1 Board of Trustees .......................................................................................................................2 Administration .............................................................................................................................3 Graduate Profile ..........................................................................................................................5 Preface .......................................................................................................................................6 District Policies............................................................................................................................7 School Directory..........................................................................................................................8 District Calendar .......................................................................................................................11 Student Holidays and Important Dates .....................................................................................12 Academics Academic Awards .....................................................................................................................19 Academic Dishonesty/Cheating/Plagiarism ...............................................................................19 Activities Eligibility/Waivers (No Pass-No Play) .........................................................................19 Career and Technical Education ...............................................................................................20 College Credit Opportunities .....................................................................................................21 Conferences .............................................................................................................................21 Distance Learning Courses .......................................................................................................22 UT/Texas Tech Classes ................................................................................................22 Texas Virtual School Network ........................................................................................22 Dual or Concurrent Credit Student and the Texas Success Initiative.........................................22 Examination for Credit...............................................................................................................23 Examination for Acceleration (Without Prior Instruction) ...............................................23 Credit by Examination with Prior Formal Instruction.......................................................23 Examination for Acceleration for World Langauages .....................................................23 Exemptions from Instruction ......................................................................................................24 Grading .....................................................................................................................................24 Grade Point Average (GPA) ..........................................................................................24 Rank in Class (RIC) .......................................................................................................24 Top 10% Rule................................................................................................................25 Top 7% for UT Austin ....................................................................................................25 Grading and Credit ........................................................................................................25 Assignment Grading Policy............................................................................................26 Credit Class Load ..........................................................................................................26 Promotion/Placement/Retention-High School ................................................................26 Credit Repair .................................................................................................................27 Graduation ................................................................................................................................27 Early Graduation ...........................................................................................................27 Commencement Activities and Cermonies Participation ................................................27 Invocations/Benedictions ...............................................................................................27 Requirements ................................................................................................................27 Available Help ...............................................................................................................28 Valedictorian, Salutatorian and Honor Graduates ..........................................................28 Graduation Requirements for Students Receiving Special Education Services .........................28
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Human Sexuality Instruction......................................................................................................29 Middle School ................................................................................................................30 High School ...................................................................................................................30 National Honor Society National Junior Honor Society ..............................................................30 Physical Activity for Students ....................................................................................................31 Doctor’s Note to Excuse from Participating in PE Due to Illness or Injury ......................31 Fitness Testing ..............................................................................................................31 Middle School Off-Campus PE ......................................................................................31 Program Placement Criteria ......................................................................................................32 Progress Reports ......................................................................................................................32 Promotion/Placement/Retention – Middle School......................................................................32 Student Success Initiative (SSI).....................................................................................32 Reading Assignments/Selections ..............................................................................................33 Report Cards ............................................................................................................................34 Schedule Changes....................................................................................................................34 Technology ...............................................................................................................................35 Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) ....................................................................................35 G Suite for Education (GAFE) ......................................................................................35 Optional Access and Publication of Student Photograph and Work at Parent Discretion ......................................................................................................................................36 Personal Telecommunication Devices ...........................................................................36 Standards and Expectations for All Users......................................................................37 Testing .....................................................................................................................................37 Instructional Materials (Textbooks), Electronic Instructional Materials, and Technological Equipment.................................................................................................................................38 Tutorials ....................................................................................................................................38 Activities Approval and Scheduling of Student Activities ..........................................................................39 Clubs and Organizations - Types Permitted ..............................................................................39 Clubs, Gangs, and Organizations - Types Not Permitted ..........................................................39 Code of Conduct in Extracurricular Activities .............................................................................39 Elections ...................................................................................................................................40 Fees..........................................................................................................................................40 Art Class Fee.................................................................................................................40 Band, Choir, Dance, Orchestra, Piano and Theatre Fees ..............................................40 Instrument Usage Fees .................................................................................................40 Waiver of Fees [Board Policy FP (Local)] ......................................................................40 Forfeiture of Honors, Offices, and Membership .........................................................................40 Fund-Raising Projects ...............................................................................................................41 Gifts ..........................................................................................................................................41 Students ........................................................................................................................41 Community Service .......................................................................................................41 Organization and Club Funds (Activity Fund) ............................................................................41 School Spirit and Sportsmanship ..............................................................................................42
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School Sponsored Trips ............................................................................................................42 Student Council.........................................................................................................................42 University Interscholastic League (UIL) Contests ......................................................................42 Attendance Absences/Attendance ...............................................................................................................43 Compulsory Attendance ................................................................................................43 Compulsory Attendance Exemptions .............................................................................43 Failure to Comply with Compulsory Attendance ........................................................................44 Between Ages 6 to 19 ...............................................................................................................44 Attendance for Credit ................................................................................................................44 Examples of Extenuating Circumstances ..................................................................................45 Absence Due to School-Related Activities ................................................................................47 Absences – Excused.................................................................................................................47 Absences – Unexcused ............................................................................................................47 Absences – Parent’s Note after an Absence .............................................................................47 Appointments – Health Care Professional .................................................................................47 Attendance Committee Appeals ................................................................................................48 College Visits ............................................................................................................................48 Drivers License Attendance Verification (VOE) .........................................................................48 Exemptions from Semester Exams ...........................................................................................48 Make-Up Work ..........................................................................................................................49 Notification by Parent to School ................................................................................................49 Notification to Parent by School ................................................................................................49 Participation in Activities ...........................................................................................................50 Tardy Slips ................................................................................................................................50 Tardies/Late arrivals to Class ....................................................................................................50 Truancy .....................................................................................................................................50 Withdrawing from School ..........................................................................................................51 Behavior Expectations Bullying .....................................................................................................................................52 Dress Code ...............................................................................................................................53 Harassment ..............................................................................................................................54 Discrimination ................................................................................................................54 Harassment ...................................................................................................................54 Sexual Harassment .......................................................................................................55 Gender-Based Harassment ...........................................................................................55 Dating Violence .............................................................................................................56 Retaliation .....................................................................................................................56 Reporting Procedure .................................................................................................................56 Investigation of Report ..............................................................................................................56 Child Abuse and Neglect...........................................................................................................57 Law Enforcement ......................................................................................................................58 Questioning of Students ................................................................................................58 Students Taken Into Custody ........................................................................................58
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Notification of Law Violations .........................................................................................58 School Resources Officers ............................................................................................59 Leaving the Campus .................................................................................................................59 Searches - Use of Trained Dogs, Metal Detectors, Students’ Desks and Lockers, Vehicles on Campus ....................................................................................................................................60 Operating Procedures Accommodations for Children of Military Families .....................................................................61 Announcements ........................................................................................................................61 Backpacks ................................................................................................................................61 Bicycles.....................................................................................................................................61 Bulletin Boards ..........................................................................................................................61 Care of Building ........................................................................................................................61 Cars/Vehicles ............................................................................................................................61 Change of Home Address, Telephone Number, or Electronic Mail Address ..............................62 Check Policy .............................................................................................................................62 Collectibles ...............................................................................................................................62 Complaints- Parents/Students...................................................................................................62 Directory Information .................................................................................................................62 Toys and other Miscellaneous Devices .....................................................................................63 Hall Pass/Permits......................................................................................................................63 Home Access Center (HAC) .....................................................................................................63 Home Schooling........................................................................................................................63 Identification Cards-Students ....................................................................................................64 Lock and Lockers ......................................................................................................................64 Lost and Found .........................................................................................................................64 Office Business Hours...............................................................................................................64 Parent Expectations, Involvement, Responsibilities, and Rights................................................64 Permanent Records ..................................................................................................................65 Pledge of Allegiance, Recitations, and A Minute of Silence .......................................................65 Publications .............................................................................................................................65 School Materials ............................................................................................................65 Non-School Materials from Students .............................................................................65 Non-School Materials from Others.................................................................................66 Restitution .................................................................................................................................66 School Dances ..........................................................................................................................66 School-Issued Property .............................................................................................................66 Scooters, Skateboards, Roller Blades, Wheeled Footwear .......................................................67 Site-Based Advisory Committee ................................................................................................67 Student Records .......................................................................................................................67 Student Speakers .....................................................................................................................67 Substitute Teachers ..................................................................................................................68 Teacher & Staff Professional Qualifications ..............................................................................68 Telephones ...............................................................................................................................68 Transfers...................................................................................................................................68
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Videotaping/Recording ..............................................................................................................71 Safety and Security Asbestos ...................................................................................................................................73 Drills – Fire, Tornado, and Other Emergencies .........................................................................73 Emergency Procedures.............................................................................................................73 School Closing While Classes Not in Session ...............................................................73 School Closing While Classes in Session ......................................................................73 In Case of Evacuation ...................................................................................................74 In Case of Tornado/Severe Weather .............................................................................74 In Case of Lockdown Situation ......................................................................................74 In Case of Reverse Evacuation .....................................................................................74 Gun Free Zone ..............................................................................................................74 General Safety ..........................................................................................................................75 Mold in Buildings .......................................................................................................................75 Pest Management Plan .............................................................................................................75 Visitors & Volunteers .................................................................................................................75 Visitors ..........................................................................................................................76 Volunteers .....................................................................................................................76 Services Food Services ...........................................................................................................................77 A La Carte Items ...........................................................................................................77 Outside Foods in Cafeteria ............................................................................................77 Refunds .........................................................................................................................77 Counseling Services .................................................................................................................77 Academic Planning ...................................................................................................................78 Social Emotional Learning (SEL) ..............................................................................................78 Personal Counseling ................................................................................................................78 Health Services .........................................................................................................................78 Required Information Regarding Meningitis ...................................................................79 Illness and Fever ...........................................................................................................80 Head Lice ......................................................................................................................80 Emergency Care ...........................................................................................................80 Emergency Medical Treatment .....................................................................................80 Food Allergies ...............................................................................................................80 Health Clinic ..................................................................................................................80 Medication Procedures ..................................................................................................81 State Mandated Health Screenings ...............................................................................82 Immunizations ...............................................................................................................82 Documentation ..............................................................................................................82 Exemptions ...................................................................................................................82 Provisional Enrollment ...................................................................................................83 School Health Advisory Council .....................................................................................83 Learning Support Services ........................................................................................................83 Dyslexia .........................................................................................................................83
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English as a Second Language (ESL) ...........................................................................84 Families in Transition Program ......................................................................................84 Migrant Education .........................................................................................................84 Parent/Family Resource and Opportunity Centers ........................................................84 S.T.A.R. Center .............................................................................................................84 Title I Parent Involvement Policy....................................................................................85 Teen Parenting Program ...............................................................................................85 Library Services ........................................................................................................................85 Students with Disabilities ..........................................................................................................86 Special Education Services ...........................................................................................86 Providing Assistance to Students Who Have Learning Difficulties or Need Special Education Services ........................................................................................................87 Section 504 Services .....................................................................................................87 Student Insurance .....................................................................................................................88 Talented and Gifted (TAG) Services .........................................................................................88 Transportation ...........................................................................................................................88 General Information .......................................................................................................88 Bus Rules ......................................................................................................................89 Vending Machines ....................................................................................................................90 Appendix UIL Eligibility Calendar ..............................................................................................................92 High School Graduation Requirements Chart for Students Entering 9th Grade Before Fall 2014 .................................................................................................................................................93 Foundation High School Program Graduation Plans .................................................................94 Rights of Parents and Students.................................................................................................95 Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) .............................................................95 Education Code 25.095 - Warning Notices ....................................................................95 Notification of Rights under FERPA ...............................................................................96 Permissions Information and Form Notice to Parents: Directory Information ...................................................................................97 Internet Access Agreement .......................................................................................................97 Bring Your Own Device/Technology (BYOD) ............................................................................98 G Suite for Education ................................................................................................................98 Publicity Release Options .........................................................................................................99 Receipt of the Handbook .........................................................................................................100 Permission Forms to be Returned to Campus .........................................................................100
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ACADEMICS Academic Awards At high school, academic awards are given in the spring of each year based on the cumulative average of the first semester of the current year and all previous years (9-11). Awards will be granted on the basis of a student having a 4.0 average for all core courses plus other languages.
Academic Dishonesty/Cheating/Plagiarism Copying another person’s work, such as homework, class work, or a test, is a form of cheating. Plagiarism is also a form of cheating. Plagiarism is defined as using another person’s original ideas or writing, without giving credit to the true author, as use of one’s own work. Students guilty of cheating, plagiarism or other forms of academic dishonesty will be subject to academic and/or administrative disciplinary action that may include loss of credit for the work in question. The determination that a student has engaged in academic dishonesty shall be based on the judgment of the classroom teacher or another supervising professional employee, taking into consideration written materials, observation, or information from students. See EIA (Local).
Activities Eligibility and Waivers (No Pass-No Play) A student whose recorded six weeks grade average in a course is lower than 70 at the end of the six weeks grading period shall be suspended from participation in any extra-curricular competition or extracurricular public performance. (Note that many non-competitive fine arts performances are indeed curricular and are actually part of the curriculum. These will be identified as such, and students will not be barred from participation.) If during the succeeding three weeks, the student achieves a course grade average of at least 70 in each course, the student regains eligibility. An “I” (Incomplete) grade counts as an “F” for eligibility purposes until the teacher resolves it to a passing grade of 70 or above and has recorded that grade with the registrar’s office. A high school student may be eligible for a waiver to allow participation in any extra-curricular activity sponsored or sanctioned by the District or UIL after a six-weeks grading period in which a student received a grade lower than a “70,” but no lower than “60” in an “advanced” class. The first semester exemption will not be transferable to the second semester. This one-time-a-semester waiver for “advanced” classes may also be used at the three weeks progress report time to restore eligibility. However, parents and students should be advised that the waiver is good only for the remainder of the three weeks if used then, whereas, if the waiver is used at the end of a six weeks grading period, the waiver is good for the entire six weeks. Courses considered “advanced” for these purposes in Board Policy FM (Local) are listed below: 1. Advanced Placement (AP), Pre-AP, Pre-AP Tag, and AP TAG courses. 2. International Baccalaureate (IB), Pre-IB, Pre-IB TAG, and IB TAG courses. 3. High school/college concurrent enrollment classes included in Part One of the Community College General Academic Course Guide manual in the following subject areas: a. English Language Arts b. Mathematics c. Science d. Social Studies e. Economics f. Languages other than English
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The following criteria are the basis for the approval or disapproval of the request for an eligibility waiver: 1. Student initiation of the waiver request. 2. Parent and sponsor approval of the request. 3. Teacher information regarding the student’s satisfactory participation in class activities, and attendance at tutoring. 4. The student’s grade in an advanced class is lower than a “70”, but not lower than a “60.” The principal will make the final determination on the approval or disapproval of a waiver request. The principal’s signature must be on the waiver prior to participation. TEC Subchapter D, Section 33.081 EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES (c) A student who is enrolled in a school district in this state or who participates in a University Interscholastic League competition shall be suspended from participation in any extracurricular activity sponsored or sanctioned by the school district or the University Interscholastic League after a grade evaluation period in which the student received a grade lower than the equivalent of 70 on a scale of 100 in any academic class other than an identified honors or advanced class. A suspension continues for at least three weeks and is not removed during the school year until the conditions of Subsection (d) are met. A suspension does not last beyond the end of a school year. For purposes of the subsection, “grade evaluation period” means: (1) the six-week grade reporting period; or (2) the first six-weeks of a semester and each grade reporting period thereafter, in the case of a district with a grade reporting period longer than six weeks. (d) Until the suspension is removed under this subsection or the school year ends, a school district shall review the grades of a student suspended under Subsection © at the end of each three-week period following the date on which the suspension began. At the time of a review, the suspension is removed if the student’s grade in each class, other than an identified honors or advanced class, is equal to or greater than the equivalent of 70 on a scale of 100. the principal and each of the student’s teachers shall make the determination concerning the student’s grades. (e) Suspension of a student with a disability that significantly interferes with the student’s ability to meet regular academic standards must be based on the student’s failure to meet the requirements of the student’s individualized education program. The determination of whether a disability significantly interferes with a student’s ability to meet regular academic standards must be made by the student’s admission, review, and dismissal committee. For purposes of this subsection, “student with a disability” means a student who is eligible for a district’s special education program under Section 29.003(b). (f) A student suspended under this section may practice or rehearse with other students for an extracurricular activity but may not participate in a competition or other public performance.
NOTE: A chart of important dates for UIL eligibility is located in the Appendix of this handbook.
Career and Technical Education Round Rock ISD Public Notification of Nondiscrimination in Career and Technical Education Programs The Round Rock Independent School District offers Career and Technical Education Programs in Agricultural Science, Architecture & Construction, Arts & A/V, Business, Education & Training, Finance, Health Science, Hospitality & Tourism, Human Services, Information Technology, Law, Marketing, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics), and Transportation. Admission to these programs is based on interests and aptitude, age appropriateness, and available class space. It is the policy of Round Rock ISD not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or handicap in its vocational programs, services or activities as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. The Round Rock Independent School District operates all educational programs without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or any other basis prohibited by
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law. The District complies with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Americans with Disabilities Act, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Round Rock Independent School District will take steps to assure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participation in all educational and vocational programs. For information about your rights or grievance procedures, contact the Title IX Coordinator, Lindsey McPheeters, at 1311 Round Rock Avenue, Round Rock, TX 78681 (Telephone 512-464-5451), and/ or the Section 504 Coordinator, Steven Teter, at 1311 Round Rock Avenue, Round Rock, TX 78681 (Telephone 512-464-5140).
College Credit Opportunities Round Rock ISD offers many opportunities for students to earn college credit while enrolled in the district including the Advanced Placement (AP), Austin Community College Dual Credit, UT OnRamps Dual Enrollment, International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, and articulated courses through Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs. The AP and CTE programs are open enrollment and participation is based on the prerequisites of the course. The student is responsible for transportation. The Advanced Placement program is in cooperation with The College Board. Additional information can be obtained from The College Board web site, www.collegeboard.com. The Dual Credit program is in cooperation with Austin Community College (ACC). The institution contact information for Dual Credit is ACC, 512-223-7355 or
[email protected]. The web address is www.austincc.edu/dual. The Dual Enrollment program is in cooperation with UT – Austin. Additional information can be obtained from the UT OnRamps website, https://onramps.utexas.edu/. The IB Diploma Programme is offered in cooperation with the IB Organization. Additional information can be obtained from the IB web site, www.ibo.org. The IB Diploma Programme is offered at Westwood and Stony Point High Schools. The CTE articulated credit programs are in cooperation with Austin Community College, and Central Texas College. Austin Community College’s contact information for CTE articulations is 512-223-7013,
[email protected], and Central Texas College contact information is 254-526-1154,
[email protected]. For additional information about these programs, contact your campus counselor. You may also contact Michelle Swain at 512-464-5023 or
[email protected] with questions regarding Advanced Placement, Dual Credit, Dual Enrollment or IB. You may contact Peggy Mica at (512) 4645077 or
[email protected] with questions regarding CTE articulated courses. It is important to keep in mind that not all colleges and universities accept credit earned in all AP, Dual Credit, Dual Enrollment or IB courses taken in high school for college credit. Students and parents should check with the prospective college or university to determine if a particular course will count toward the student’s desired degree plan.
Conferences Parents/legal guardians and teachers are encouraged to establish and maintain frequent communication about student progress. A student or parent/legal guardian who wants information or has a question or concern should talk or meet with the appropriate teacher. A teacher shall request a conference with a student’s parents at the end of each progress reporting period if the student’s grade falls below 70. Conferences may be requested by a teacher or parent as needed according to policy EIA (Local).
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Distance Learning Courses UT/Texas Tech Classes Students may choose to take Distance Learning courses outside of the school day at their own expense. Distance Learning courses are available through the high school programs at the University of Austin UT High School and Texas Tech Independent School District. A complete list of eligible courses can be found at the following sites: https://www.depts.ttu.edu/ttuisd/cbe.php and https://highschool.utexas.edu/credit_by_exam Please consult your school counselor for further information.
Texas Virtual School Network The Texas Virtual School Network (TxVSN) has been established as one method of distance learning, which may be taken during or after the school day and is available to RRISD students. A student has the option, with certain limitations, to enroll in a course offered through the TxVSN to earn course credit for graduation. If the campus offers a “substantially similar course”, the cost of the TxVSN course is the responsibility of the student. If the campus does not offer such a course, the district will pay for the course if it is part of the student’s graduation plan. Depending on the course in which a student enrolls, the course may be subject to the “no pass, no play” rules. See Activities Eligibility and Waivers (No Pass No Play) section in this handbook. www.txvsn.org.
Dual or Concurrent Credit Students and the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) High school students may be eligible to earn college credit while they are still in high school by enrolling in dual credit, dual enrollment or concurrent credit courses. Dual credit, dual enrollment courses are college courses that also count toward high school requirements. To receive high school credit, the grade in the course must be a C or better. If all conditions are met, credit is given for the course but is not used to determine the student’s grade point average or class rank. Concurrent courses are college courses taken by a student outside of high school hours which do not count as high school credit. Prior to enrolling in either dual or concurrent courses, students must satisfy Texas Success Initiative (TSI) requirements. How Can the TSI requirements be satisfied? High school students wishing to enroll in college-level courses are required by law to be assessed for basic reading, writing, and mathematics skills prior to enrolling in college coursework using the state-mandated TSI assessment. High school students may take college-level courses related to the area(s) of the test they pass. High school students may be exempt from the state-mandated TSI assessment if they meet the qualifying standards for college readiness. Students are considered “College Ready” if they meet one of the bulleted areas: ● ACT scores: a composite score of 23 or above AND a minimum of 19 on both the English and math subtests (scores are valid for five years) ● SAT scores: 1070 combined critical reading and math scores AND a minimum of 500 on both the critical reading and math sections (scores are valid for five years) Keep in mind that these exemptions excuse students from having to take a state-mandated TSI assessment only. They may still have to meet institutional prerequisites or testing requirements.
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Examinations for Credit Examination for Acceleration (Without Prior Instruction) To more appropriately challenge students, Board Policy EHDC (Local) allows students who, without prior instruction, have already mastered content and skills in a particular course to advance to the next level. Students may qualify to move ahead one course by scoring 80% or higher on a district sanctioned test. The actual test score is entered on the student’s transcript but is not included in either the Grade Point Average (GPA) or Class Rank. Tests are administered multiple times a year at District cost. If parents choose not to wait until the next district testing date, they may contact the University of Texas at Austin UT High School or Texas Tech ISD, which has developed the tests used by the District, and pay the fees to have the tests administered at their convenience. Please note that policy indicates, “If as student fails to achieve the designated score on an applicable examination for a subject before the beginning of the school year in which the student would ordinarily be required to enroll in a course in that subject in accordance with the District’s prescribed course sequence, the student must satisfactorily complete the course to receive credit for the course.” Students or parents interested in more information concerning the tests, eligibility, or qualifications for credit should contact the campus counselor for additional information and registration forms. Testing is conducted on the home campus during the designated district testing dates. Testing conducted outside the district testing windows may be taken on the campus or at The University of Texas testing center.
Quarter July 1-September 30 October 1-December 31 January 1-March 31 April 1-June 30
Registration Deadline August 10 November 1 February 1 May 1
Exam Return Date September 1 December 1 March 1 June 1
Additional testing options for course credit include AAPPL, College Board Advanced Placement and CLEP exams.
Credit by Examination with Prior Formal Instruction A student who has had sufficient prior formal instruction as determined by the District on the basis of a review of the student’s educational records may be eligible to regain credit by examination. A student may not use this examination to regain eligibility to participate in extracurricular activities. The attendance committee may allow a student with excessive absences to receive credit for a course by passing an examination. Students are responsible for the cost of the examination. Students must score 70% or better on each test taken. [Board Policy EEJA (Local)] The score will be entered on the transcript, although it is not used to determine the student’s grade point average (GPA) or class rank.
Examination for Acceleration for World Languages The AAPPL Measure (ACTFL Assessment of Performance toward Proficiency in Languages) is an online test used for middle and high school students to evaluate their proficiency in the following languages: Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish and English as a Second Language. Depending on their score on this evaluation, students may be awarded high school LOTE credit. Students wishing to test for Korean or Japanese will continue to test using the University of Texas
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exams. Testing for additional languages may be available as tests are developed. Questions regarding world language credit should be directed to Marie Douglass at 512-464-5490.
Exemptions from Instruction Parents may provide written authorization for removal of a student from a class or activity if the parent believes it conflicts with the parent’s religious or moral beliefs. This right does not extend to avoiding tests or preventing a student from taking a subject for an entire semester, nor does it exempt a student from grade level or graduation requirements. Requests should be made in writing to the campus administrator (Texas Education Code §26.010).
Grading Grade Point Average Total GPA is calculated for each student using an unweighted four point system (commonly used by colleges and universities). Grade points are awarded based on the grading system used in RRISD: 90 - 100 80 - 89 70 - 79 Less than 69
= = = =
A B C F
= = = =
4.0 3.0 2.0 0.0
A student’s cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) begins at the end of the first semester of the Freshman year. A student’s GPA does not change until the end of each semester since only the semester grade has grade points attached to it. The semester grade is the average of each of the three six week grades and the semester exam grade. The exception occurs when a grade is corrected or summer school is accumulated into the grade average. NOTE: The reported GPA does not necessarily predict class rank. A student may have a lower GPA but a higher class rank than other students due to the weighted grades used for class rank. Some courses are not calculated in GPA, see Correspondence & Internet Courses.
Rank in Class (RIC) Academic Average RIC is figured by computing the overall Academic Average for each student using a graduated five point system and a graduated six point system for AP, IB, Pre AP, Pre IB, and TAG courses. This Academic Average includes all semester grades earned in core courses (English, math, science, and social studies) and languages other than English. All students shall be ranked for academic purposes on the school-of-record campus. Class rank is determined by a computer listing that begins with the #1 place awarded to the student with the highest cumulative Academic Average that semester. The Academic Average is then ranked in descending order for all students in the class. For two school years following his or her graduation, a district student who graduates in the top ten percent of his or her class is eligible for automatic admission into four-year public universities and colleges in Texas if the student: 1. Completes the Recommended or Distinguished Achievement Program; or 2. Completes the Distinguished Level of Achievement Program with Endorsements; or 3. Satisfies the ACT College Readiness Benchmarks or earns at least a 1500 out of 2400 on the SAT.
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Students and parents should contact his or her counselor for further information about the application process and deadlines. A class ranking is computed at the end of each semester after the ninth grade. Class rank cards are provided to students in the fall of the sophomore year, fall and spring of the junior and senior years, and a final class rank is determined at the end of the fifth six weeks of the senior year. Final transcripts will reflect the final Grade Point Average GPA and class rank from the end of the fifth six weeks. Students should be aware that the second semester grades will be on the “Final Transcript” which must be sent to colleges. College acceptance is based on proof of graduation and completion of courses required by those institutions for admissions. Therefore, all second semester grades will be important. High school credits earned through ACC, Texas Virtual School Network, correspondence courses, middle school course, etc., will not be included in the GPA or Academic Average for class rank The number of grade points included in any average for both GPA and Academic Average is cumulative from ninth grade and is carried out to five decimal places, i.e., 4.12345. See also GPA.
Top 10% Rule The Texas public college or university of the student’s choice shall admit an applicant if: ● The applicant graduated with an academic class rank that places the student in the top 10 percent of his/her high school class; ● The student applies no later than two years after graduating from a Texas high school; and ● The student submits a completed application before the expiration of any filing deadline established by the college. Senate Bill 175, passed by the 81st Legislature, modified the Top 10% automatic admission program at the University of Texas at Austin. Under the law, the University is to admit automatically enough students to fill 75% of available spaces set aside for Texas residents in an entering freshman class. Top 7% for University of Texas, at Austin Under Senate Bill 175, the University of Texas, at Austin, is to admit automatically enough high school students to fill 75% of available space set aside for Texas residents in an entering freshmen class beginning with the 2012 freshmen summer/fall class. Using data from recent years, the University of Texas, at Austin, has determined that admitting Class of 2017 and 2018 students in the top 7% of their high school graduating class to the summer or Fall 2017 and Spring 2018 freshmen class will fill 75% of available spaces. The University of Texas at Austin will automatically admit all Class of 2015 and 2016 students in the top 8% of their high school class to the summer or fall 2016 and spring 2017. The remaining spaces will be filled through holistic review. (Texas Education Code §51.803).
Grading and Credit 90 - 100 80 - 89 70 - 79 Less than 69
= = = =
A B C F
= = = =
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Assignment Grading Policy [See EIA (Regulation)] The grade book will be a teacher’s record and/or file of evidence to support grades reported on the report card. Grades will be logical, justifiable, and sufficient in number to assure that the report card grade is an accurate measure of the student’s progress and achievement. In order to be awarded a grade of “70” in a course or subject, a student must demonstrate 70 percent mastery of the District’s curriculum objectives in any recording period. Teachers will provide a sufficient number of grades to allow multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate mastery. Teachers will be required to have and record at least one grade per week beginning the first full week of school. For the purpose of determining six-week averages, campus administration and departments or course levels will establish guidelines that govern assessments or grades. When calculating a six-week average, no single assignment/assessment grade will count more than 30 percent of the total average and no two assignment/assessment grades will count more than 50 percent of the total average regardless of the grade category. Major projects may comprise more than one assignment. Final exams will be weighted 16% at high school and 10% for middle school. A minimum grade shall not be required of a teacher for an assignment. The assignment’s grade shall reflect the quality of the student’s work. Consistent with campus grading guidelines, a classroom teacher shall provide students a reasonable and fair opportunity to retake/redo failing work according to the policy developed for their campus course/grade level. See Policy EIA (Local).
Credit Class Load Students in grades 9 and 10 must be enrolled for eight scheduled credit class periods. Dependent on credit earned and passing status on state assessments, 11th and 12th graders may be considered for enrollment in a minimum of six scheduled credit bearing class periods.
Promotion/Placement/Retention – High School Freshman: A student must have been promoted from the 8th grade. Sophomore: A student must have satisfactorily completed 6 credits and one year of high school. Junior: A student must have satisfactorily completed 12 credits and two years of high school or completed 12 credits and have an Early Graduation Plan on file. Senior: A student must have satisfactorily completed 18 credits and three years of high school or have completed 18 credits and have an Early Graduation Plan on file. These classifications are based on the number of credits actually completed prior to the first day of the school year. Students are not re-classified during the school year except for: 1. Fourth year juniors who have 21 credits and are on track for May graduation will be re-classified as seniors. 2. Third year sophomores, who have at least 14 credits and have passed the four core area classes during the fall semester, will be reclassified as juniors to allow them to adequately prepare for their senior year.
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A correspondence course is not considered completed until the final grade is recorded in the registrar’s office. See Round Rock ISD Policy FM (Legal) for further clarification regarding extracurricular eligibility requirements.
Credit Repair Credit repair via digital curriculum provides an opportunity at the end of a six week grading period for a high school (grades 9-12) student to be re-taught and retested. Digital curriculum may also be used as an intervention tool at any time during a marking period to address specific learning gaps. A student is eligible to participate in Credit Repair via digital curriculum if: a. He/she has failed a six-week grading period of a course; or b. He/she demonstrates learning gaps during a six-week grading period Credit Repair is not an option for AP or Pre-AP courses since the digital curriculum is not approved by the College Board who sponsors the AP curriculum.
Graduation Early Graduation A RRISD student may choose to graduate from high school in fewer than four years. To pursue early graduation, a student must complete the “RRISD Early Graduation Credit Check” form, which may be obtained from the high school counseling office. Early graduation requirements include meeting all requirements for the recommended plan, parent approval and a meeting with the counselor to file a written early graduation plan.
Commencement Activities and Ceremonies Participation Students who have satisfactorily completed all coursework requirements for graduation but have failed to meet state exit-level testing requirements are not allowed to participate in commencement activities and ceremonies. [Board Policy FMH (Local)] The fact that academic requirements for graduation have been met does not guarantee participation in the graduation ceremony. Final authority rests with the campus principal regarding a student’s participation in the graduation ceremony. Participation is a privilege, not a right. Students will be required to wear proper graduation attire.
Invocations/Benedictions School officials shall not direct the performance of a formal religious exercise at promotional and graduation ceremonies. Lee, et al. v. Weisman, 505 U.S. 577, 112 S. Ct. 2649 (1992) (addressing prayer by clergy at graduation). See Policy FMH (Legal).
Requirements In addition to the credits necessary to meet RRISD graduation requirements (See the High School Graduation Requirements Chart in the Appendix), students must meet all mandated state testing requirements. Ninth graders are required to pursue the Distinguished Level of Achievement Foundation Graduation Plan (DLA). Please refer to the district course catalog for specific details. According to the Board of Trustees policy EIC (LOCAL), any student enrolling fewer than 15 days prior to commencement shall not be included in rank in class (RIC).
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In addition to the credits necessary to meet RRISD graduation requirements, students must meet all mandated state testing requirements in order to participate in graduation commencement exercises.. Students must pass the STAAR End-of-Course (EOC) assessments in ELA I, ELA II, Algebra I, Biology, and US History. If the student does not pass one or more of these tests, the student will be provided accelerated instruction in the appropriate subject area and will be given several opportunities to pass all assessments prior to graduation. According to Texas Administrative Code Subchapter CC §101.3022, a student who has failed the EOC assessment graduation requirements for no more than two courses may receive a Texas high school diploma if the student has qualified to graduate by means of an individual graduation committee (IGC). In certain situations according to Texas Administrative Code Subchapter DD §101.4002,, students may be able to use a substitute assessment to satisfy their EOC assessment requirement. Qualifying tests include AP, IB, SAT, ACT, and TSI. Students must achieve a specific passing score established by the Texas Education Agency. Please contact the high school campus counselor for additional details about the graduation requirements, RIC, EOCs, IGC, and the substitute assessment criteria, in addition to other information related to high school and post-secondary success.
Available Help Students who experience difficulty passing the tests are eligible for remedial programs. Student needs may be addressed through a variety of interventions, such as special remedial classes and/or tutorial programs. Counselors and administrators will work with students to develop a program that is appropriate to meet the needs of each student.
Valedictorian, Salutatorian and Honor Graduates The valedictorian and salutatorian will be determined by rank in class (RIC) not grade point average (GPA). Only students who have been enrolled in the District for the last four semesters prior to graduation and who have completed one of the two highest graduation plans will be eligible to be valedictorian or salutatorian. In case of a tie, the following factors, in descending order, will determine the valedictorian: 1. The student who has taken the greater number of classes counted toward RIC. 2. The student who has been in the District longer. The top ten percent of the class (except for the valedictorian and salutatorian) will be based on RIC, regardless of graduation plan. In order to be ranked as an honor graduate, a student must be enrolled a minimum of the last semester prior to graduation. All incoming students’ GPA will be converted to the system used by the Round Rock Independent School District to determine both RIC and GPA.
Graduation Requirements for Students Receiving Special Education Services The secondary program of a student receiving special education services shall terminate either with graduation or when the student no longer meets the age requirement for eligibility in the Texas Education Code. A student receiving special education services who has not reached his or her 22nd birthday on September 1 of a scholastic year shall be eligible for services through the end of that scholastic year or until graduation.
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1. Graduation with a regular high school diploma terminates a student's eligibility for special education services. In addition, as provided in Texas Education Code, graduation with a regular high school diploma under subsection (b) or (d) of this section terminates a student's entitlement to the benefits of the Foundation School Program. 2. A student receiving special education services may graduate and be awarded a regular high school diploma if: a) the student has satisfactorily completed the state's or district's (whichever is greater) minimum curriculum and credit requirements for graduation applicable to students in general education, including satisfactory performance on the exit level assessment instrument; or b) the student has satisfactorily completed the state's or district's (whichever is greater) minimum curriculum and credit requirements for graduation applicable to students in general education, including participation in required state assessments. The student's admission, review, and dismissal (ARD) committee shall determine whether satisfactory performance on a required state assessment shall also be required for graduation. 3. A student receiving special education services may also graduate and receive a regular high school diploma when the student's ARD committee has determined that the student has successfully completed: a) the student's individualized education program (IEP); b) one of the following conditions, consistent with the student's IEP: i full-time employment, based on the student's abilities and local employment opportunities, in addition to sufficient self-help skills to enable the student to maintain the employment without direct and ongoing educational support of the local school district; ii demonstrated mastery of specific employability skills and self-help skills which do not require direct ongoing educational support of the local school district; or iii access to services which are not within the legal responsibility of public education, or employment or educational options for which the student has been prepared by the academic program; c) the state's or district's (whichever is greater) minimum credit requirements for students without disabilities; and d) the state's or district's minimum curriculum requirements to the extent possible with modifications/substitutions only when it is determined necessary by the ARD committee for the student to receive an appropriate education. 4. A student receiving special education services may also graduate and receive a regular high school diploma upon the ARD committee determining that the student no longer meets age eligibility requirements and has completed the requirements specified in the IEP. 5. All students graduating under this section shall be provided with a summary of academic achievement and functional performance. This summary shall consider, as appropriate, the views of the parent and student and written recommendations from adult service agencies on how to assist the student in meeting postsecondary goals. An evaluation as required as part of the summary for a student graduating under section 3 above. 6. Students who participate in graduation ceremonies but who are not graduating under section 3 and who will remain in school to complete their education do not have to be evaluated. 7. Employability and self-help skills referenced under section 3 are those skills directly related to the preparation of students for employment, including general skills necessary to obtain or retain employment. 8. For students who receive a diploma according to section 3, the ARD committee shall determine needed educational services upon the request of the student or parent to resume services, as long as the student meets the age eligibility requirements.
Human Sexuality Instruction As a part of the district’s curriculum, students receive instruction related to human sexuality. The School Health Advisory Council (SHAC) is involved with the selection of course materials for such instruction.
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State law requires that any instruction related to human sexuality, sexually transmitted diseases, or human immunodeficiency virus or acquired immune deficiency syndrome must: ● Present abstinence from sexual activity as the preferred choice of behavior in relationship to all sexual activity for unmarried persons of school age;
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Devote more attention to abstinence from sexual activity than to any other behavior;
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Emphasize that abstinence is the only method that is 100 percent effective in preventing pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and the emotional trauma associated with adolescent sexual activity;
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Direct adolescents to a standard of behavior in which abstinence from sexual activity before marriage is the most effective way to prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases; and
In accordance with state law, below is a summary of the district’s curriculum regarding human sexuality instruction:
Middle School Round Rock ISD administrators and parents, teachers and Board members have adopted the Scott and White Sex Education Program, which meets the requirements of Texas law requiring that sex education programs in the state be abstinence-only curricula. "Worth the Wait" is a 10 lesson program based on the medical and legal facts regarding teen sexuality activity. This includes information regarding puberty, sexual reproduction, sexually transmitted diseases and making healthy decisions. The curriculum is aligned to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for science and health.
High School Austin LifeGuard’s high school presentation is a 270-minute program delivered in the classroom setting that promotes character and sexual health. The program is culturally and developmentally appropriate. Through the use of various methods including discussions, videos, games, and more, Austin LifeGuard seeks to prevent new STDs and unexpected pregnancies. The program also seeks to delay sexual initiation among Central Texas teens, increase abstinence, and promote healthy relationships. As a parent, you are entitled to review the curriculum materials. In addition, you may remove your child from any part of the human sexuality instruction with no academic, disciplinary, or other penalties. You may also choose to become more involved with the development of curriculum used for this purpose by becoming a member of the district’s SHAC. Please see the campus principal for additional information.
National Honor Society /National Junior Honor Society The National Honor Society (NHS) and National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) are the nation’s premier organizations established to recognize outstanding high school and middle level students respectively. More than just an honor roll, NHS and NJHS serve to honor those students who demonstrated excellence in the areas of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character (and Citizenship for NJHS). National Honor Society membership is not based solely on academic achievement. Specific criteria and information are available through the chapter advisors at each school. High school students who have maintained a minimum of 4.0 Rank in Class (RIC) during their high school career are eligible for nomination to the school’s local chapter of the National Honor Society. Students seeking admission should contact the sponsor for admission guidelines. The student must have been enrolled in the current school for at least one semester. Selection for membership is based upon a student’s evidence of scholarship, service, citizenship, leadership, and character. Selection will be made by a faculty council comprised of five faculty members appointed by the principal. Discipline referrals and excessive absences will constitute evidence of deficiencies in character and leadership. Service
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contributions are determined by completion of a service form by the nominee and scored by the faculty council. Induction is held only once during each academic year. Middle school students who have a cumulative grade point average of that meets the local school’s Faculty Council eligibility requirements or equivalent standard of excellence, or a higher cumulative average set by the local school's Faculty Council, meet the scholarship requirement for membership. These students are then eligible for consideration on the basis of service, leadership, citizenship, and character.
Physical Activity for Students The District will ensure that students in middle school engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day for at least four semesters during 6th, 7th and 8th grades as part of the district’s physical education curriculum. Students in 6th grade are required to take physical education. Students in 7th and 8th grade must acquire at least two additional semesters of physical education curriculum to meet the requirements. For additional information on the District’s programs regarding middle school student physical activity requirements, please see the school administrator. Doctor's Note to Excuse from Participating in PE Due to Illness or Injury If a student is ill or injured, a parent must provide a note to excuse their student from participation in physical education. After three consecutive days, a doctor's note is required with a date noted for return to participation. Fitness Testing The District will annually assess 3rd-12th grade students in all physical education courses and physical education substitute courses by order of the Commissioner of Educations rules, included in 19 TAC, Chapter 103, Subchapter AA. In accordance with the §103.1001 and the Texas Education Agency, all districts are mandated to use the FitnessGram ® to conduct the fitness testing. For additional information about the use of FitnessGram ®, please see www.fitnessgram.net. At the end of the school year, a parent may submit a written request to obtain the results of his or her child’s physical fitness assessment conducted during the school year. Middle School Off-Campus PE Middle School students can apply for Off-Campus PE if they meet the Category I criteria. Students would be allowed to gain the PE credit but can only leave campus the last period of the day. If the student’s academic schedule is in conflict with the off-block, the academic class will need to be taken on campus and an off block would not be available. Programs wishing to participate in this program would be verified by the Athletic Department. The programs meeting the criteria are not endorsed by RRISD but meet the state requirements. Safety of the program and the employees are the responsibility of the parent/guardian. Definition of Category 1 from TEA: Category 1: Athletic Training Program for State, National, or Professional Rankings or Olympic Competition Release time Allowed: Minimum of fifteen (15) hours per week of highly intense, professional, supervised training that includes national or Olympic level competitions. Students qualifying and participating at this level may be dismissed from (1) class period per day which may be scheduled at the beginning or end of the school day.
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Program Placement Criteria Screening for placement in TAG, advanced, and regular courses is subject to the criteria as set forth in the RRISD High School Course Catalog available in the registrar’s office.
Progress Reports Interim Progress Reports are issued in the middle of each six-week grading period to students who are borderline or failing a class unless the student is enrolled in a dual credit course. The student is responsible for delivery of the progress report to the parent or guardian. The lack of receipt of a progress report is not justification for an automatic passing grade; students whose grades drop to failing during the last part of the six-week grading period may receive an “F” without having received a progress report. Parents wishing to obtain student grades may do so by requesting grades from the appropriate administrator. Students and parents are responsible for being aware of a student’s progress in class at all other times [See Home Access Center (HAC)].
Promotion/Placement/Retention – Middle School The following guidelines will determine the middle school student’s placement for the following year: 1. In grades 6-8, promotion to the next grade level shall be based on an overall average of 70, on a scale of 100, based upon course level/grade level standards for all subject areas, and a grade of 70 or above in both math and language arts, and either science or social studies. 2. Texas Education Code §28.0211 states that a student may not be promoted to ninth grade if the student does not perform satisfactorily on the eighth grade reading and math STAAR test. 3. Grades in physical education and elective courses will affect promotion and retention. 4. Teacher input, student case history, and student needs will receive close attention in determining a student’s grade placement. 5. With the exception of Student Success Initiative (see below) the building principal has final authority over promotion and retention.
Student Success Initiative (SSI) The Student Success Initiative (SSI) was created by the Texas Legislature to ensure that all students receive the instruction and support they need to be academically successful in reading and mathematics. Under the Student Success Initiative grade advancement requirements, students are given three opportunities to meet the required passing standard on the Grade 5 and Grade 8 STAAR (State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness) reading and mathematics tests, in order to be promoted to sixth and ninth grade, respectively. Accelerated instruction in the applicable subject area must be provided each time a student fails to perform satisfactorily on the assessment. After a student fails to perform satisfactorily on the second assessment administration, a grade placement committee (principal or designee, parent/guardian, and the subject area teacher) shall prescribe the accelerated instruction to be provided. The District shall notify the student’s parent or guardian of the student’s failure to perform satisfactorily on the assessment, the accelerated instruction program to which the student is assigned, and the possibility that the student might be retained. If after three attempts the student fails to perform satisfactorily on the assessment and is retained, the student’s parent or guardian may appeal the student’s retention by submitting a request to the grade placement committee. A unanimous decision by this committee may decide in favor of a student’s promotion if it is determined that if promoted and given accelerated instruction, the student is likely to perform at grade level. The grade placement committee decision is final and may not be appealed.
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For all students who fail to perform satisfactorily on the assessment after three attempts, accelerated instruction must be provided during the next school year, regardless of whether the student has been promoted or retained. During the school year, the student shall be monitored to ensure the student is progressing according to the student’s education plan to perform at the appropriate grade level at the conclusion of the school year. The District shall administer to the student the assessment for the grade level in which the student is enrolled at the time the District regularly administers the assessment instruments for that school year. A student in Grade 5 or 8 may not be denied promotion to the next grade level on the basis of failure to perform satisfactorily on a reading or math assessment instrument intended for use above the student’s grade level.
Reading Assignments/Selections In Secondary Language Arts classes, multiple reading selections may be assigned. Language Arts teachers will provide parents/guardians with a list of possible titles their students may read either at the beginning of the school year or at the beginning of each semester. For additional information about these titles, parents/guardians may refer to the on-line Round Rock ISD Secondary Reading List. This list contains links to critical reviews and work overviews. Parents/guardians are asked to complete a form to indicate any titles from the teacher’s list that they do not want their student to read. Parents/guardians may request an alternate assignment for their student. The teacher will then provide another reading selection. Regardless of the selections read, secondary language arts students will still be held accountable for mastery of the State Language Arts Standards. Some reading assignments will use literacy library materials or electronic, web-based reading tutorial programs designed to provide reading intervention for students who need additional reading instruction. These materials are seldom reviewed in literary journals due to their instructional application, and they will not appear on the Round Rock Secondary Reading List. Parents/guardians who have questions concerning these reading materials should contact their student’s teacher. The Secondary English Language Arts web page includes the link to the RRISD middle and high school reading lists: Middle School Reading List: https://www.roundrockisd.org/departments/curriculum-professionaldevelopment/language-artsreading/secondary-english-language-arts/middle-school-reading-list/ High School Reading List: https://www.roundrockisd.org/departments/curriculum-professionaldevelopment/language-artsreading/secondary-english-language-arts/high-school-reading-list/ Parents/guardians have the right to determine some assigned and/or self-selected reading, viewing, and listening materials for their own children. This includes the right to monitor their child’s library materials using the District union catalog (e-Library) and, if desired, to work with the campus librarian to restrict their child’s access to materials specified by the parent/guardian. The RRISD Parent Internet Links web page lists links of useful resources for parents/guardians, including the American Library Association’s list of frequently challenged books. Parent Internet Links Web Page: (https://roundrockisd.org/departments/library-services/parent-internet-links/)
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Report Cards Report cards will be issued at the end of each six-week period. The student is responsible for delivery of the report card to the parent unless the card is mailed. Students must return signed report cards to the school when issued to students. When report cards are mailed home, they do not need to be signed and returned. The final report card at the end of second semester is mailed. Each student will have a password to access his/her own data. Parents will receive a password for each of their students. Instructions for obtaining the passwords are posted on HAC page on the District’s website: www.roundrockisd.org.
Schedule Changes Students select courses in the spring prior to the next school year. Careful, thoughtful decisions must be made during this process. Course verification sheets are provided to the students in the spring so each student can confirm ad indicated by parent approval that the correct choices have been input into the computer database. Each campus will set a final date for course request corrections to be submitted for review and processing which will be no later than June 1. For students with disabilities, special education courses are determined by the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee. Students’ schedules must coincide with ARD recommendations. Master schedules and teacher hiring are based on student requests; therefore, only schedule change requests based upon the list below will be considered. Schedule changes will be considered during the first 10 days of school (first 5 class days) for the following reasons only: A. Student is a senior not scheduled in a course needed for graduation. B. Student has already earned credit for a course in which he/she is currently scheduled. C. Student does not have the prerequisite(s) for a class listed on his/her schedule. D. Student has previously failed a course with the same teacher. E. Student has been dismissed from a program where approval must be granted for placement. F. Student does not have a full schedule. G. Data entry error (no lunch, class listed twice, free period, etc.) has occurred. H. Student needs remedial coursework for TAKS/STAAR graduation requirements.
Course Level Changes: Course level changes will be considered only at the end of the first three weeks grading period for each course that offers a different level of the same course. To be considered for a transfer from a PAP or AP course, the student must have made a sincere effort to succeed by attending a minimum of 6 tutorials, completing his/her work, and by attending a conference with his/her teacher and parent. The parent must conference with the teacher before a course level change will be considered. If these conditions are met and the student is earning less than a grade of 75, then the student will be considered for a schedule change. Space availability in the receiving course will be a consideration for a course level change. Students who receive special permission to change a class schedule are subject to limitations. When a student moves from one level to another level, the actual grade earned in the previous class transfers with him/her to the new class, regardless of the level. This grade will be calculated into the proper grading period (nine weeks and semester). The student assumes all responsibility for the requirements in the course entered. Course level changes must be approved by the principal or designee.
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Technology Expectations and Guidelines for Digital Citizenship, Acceptable/Responsible Use of District Resources, and Personal (BYOD) Technology Resources Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Round Rock ISD provides students the opportunity to bring a personal electronic device to school for instructional use. This opportunity is optional and at the discretion of the student's parent(s) / guardian(s). RRISD is not responsible for lost, loaned, damaged, or stolen devices. A student shall follow campus expectations on when to access personal devices for on-campus instructional purposes. Students will be expected to connect to the district's secure and monitored wireless network to ensure access to the best online resources. The student shall also acknowledge receipt and understanding of applicable policy and guidelines and shall sign the appropriate user agreements. Students in violation of policy or school expectations shall be subject to confiscation of the device and other disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. Reference Policy CQ (Local) http://pol.tasb.org/Policy/Download/1245?filename=CQ(LOCAL).pdf Reference Policy FNCE (Local) http://pol.tasb.org/Policy/Download/1245?filename=FNCE(LOCAL).pdf. ● ● ● ● ●
Students may not use devices (including cameras) to record, transmit or post-photographic images or video of a person, or persons on campus or during school related activities for noninstructional purposes. School leaders may develop campus expectations, in accordance with district policy and guidelines, in order to meet specific campus priorities, goals, and technology infrastructures. Each student is responsible for his/her own device: setup, maintenance, and charging. District employees are not required/permitted to store, diagnose, repair, or service a student's personal device. Use or possession of personal devices will not be permitted during administration of any state assessment. Violations shall be subject to confiscation of the device and other disciplinary consequences in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. A student who violates this policy may have his or her test results invalidated. Additional recommendations and best practices should be reviewed from the Instructional Technology Web Site at https://insttech.roundrockisd.org/byod-bring-your-own-device/
G Suite for Education (Google) The District has standardized on G Suite for Education (Google) for all teachers and students in grades Kinder – 12 as a suite of web-based programs providing email, word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, calendaring, research, and collaboration tools for students and teachers. The effective use of these tools will help prepare and engage our 21st century learners. We believe that the tools provided by the G Suite for Education closely align with international standards for technology integration as well as with our State and District standards. For instructional and administrative purposes, students are automatically given access to G Suite for Education accounts on the first day of school. In RRISD, G Suite for Education runs on an Internet domain owned by RRISD and is intended for educational use only. All student email and the contents of student created Google documents in Google Drive are actively monitored by RRISD staff and third-party contracted services. As a cloud-based suite, G Suite for Education will be available at school and at home via the web. RRISD uses a robust content filter, but, with all online activity, there is always a chance students could be exposed to inappropriate content. School staff will monitor students’ use of Apps when students are at school. Parents are responsible for monitoring their child when accessing programs from home. RRISD internet filters DO NOT filter or restrict internet traffic when not at school. Students are responsible for their own behavior at all times and their strict adherence to RRISD’s Code of Conduct is
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expected. RRISD monitors all student email and the contents of student created Google Documents in Google Drive. Communications are not considered confidential. RRISD reserves the right to access and review content in the G Suite for Education system at any time. RRISD complies with all state and federal privacy laws. The District provides the opportunity for parents to opt out of student participation in G Suite for Education via the Permission form in Section III. Note: parents must submit an updated permission form each year. No personal information is collected for commercial purposes in our G Suite for Education domain. Student Data Privacy RRISD complies with all state and federal privacy laws. In order for a teacher to use an online tool with student records or other information that could be personally identifiable, the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) requires that we obtain parent consent. Certain personal information is provided to the web site operator, and under the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), these websites must provide parental notification and obtain parental consent before collecting personal information from children under the age of 13. Examples of personal information may include, but is not limited to: Full name, Email address, Student identification number, School, Date of birth, Login name, screen name, Password. Schools are permitted to consent to the collection of personal information on behalf of parents of students, thereby limiting the need for individual parental consent given directly to the web site operator. Staff may provide a list of apps for instruction and give the opportunity to opt out for students. The school district may act as an agent for parents in the collection of information within the school context. Additional permission may be requested by schools and classroom teachers.
Optional Access and Publication of Student Photograph and Work at Parent Discretion Instructional activities in the District increasingly rely on student access to web-based (internet) resources. However, the District provides the opportunity for parents to opt out of district provided internet access and/or electronic publication of student’s photographs and schoolwork. Notice of this decision is given in writing to the campus student records processor by way of a signed and returned permission form. Reference Part III Permission Form.
Personal Telecommunication Devices Electronic devices may be used in the classroom for instructional purposes and must follow the District’s Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Guidelines. Violations resulting from electronic devices brought to school by a student for other than educational purposes will be handled as follows: 1. Confiscation of the electronic communication devices; and 2. Notification to the parents that they may retrieve the electronic communication device; and 3. Charge to the owner of the device or to the student’s parent an administrative fee of 4. $15 before the administrator releases the device (Education Code 37.082); and 5. In the event the student is uncooperative and/or disrespectful, assignment of disciplinary action.
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Standards and Acceptable Use for All Users ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Technology is to be used for administrative and educational purposes only. All copyright laws and federal and state laws regarding electronic data transfer or communication will be strictly enforced for use of software, electronic resources, and equipment. You may not use technology for any illegal purposes. You may not use technology for selling products or services, or for lobbying. You may not use another user’s ID or password. You may not upload or download programs, apps or extensions without proper supervision. You may not read, delete, copy, or change the email of other system users or interfere with their ability to receive/send email. You are prohibited from pretending to be someone else; accessing or transmitting obscene messages or pictures; revealing personal addresses or telephone numbers, either their own or another person’s; or using the network in a way that would disrupt use by others. You may not harm, misuse, or destroy any technology, software, or programs. Any such harm or misuse is subject to disciplinary action and/or criminal prosecution. If you identify or know of a security problem on the system, you must notify a teacher and you must not demonstrate the security problem to other users. You must follow proper etiquette when using this system. Exemplary behavior is expected on “virtual” field trips, video conferences, or screen-sharing communication sessions. Each student will be held financially responsible for any damage to RRISD equipment caused by that student. The Round Rock Independent School District is not responsible for any inaccurate or objectionable material that users may access. The Round Rock Independent School District does not guarantee the authenticity or accuracy of any information found online. All students will comply with all statements in the Student Code of Conduct (Handbook Part II) relating to “Misuse of Computers and the Internet.”
Unacceptable and Inappropriate Use of Technology Resources Students are prohibited from possessing, sending, forwarding, posting, accessing, or displaying electronic messages that are abusive, obscene, sexually oriented, threatening, harassing, damaging to another’s reputation, or illegal. This prohibition also applies to conduct off school property, whether the equipment used to send such messages is district-owned or personally owned, if it results in a substantial disruption to the educational environment. ● Any person taking, disseminating, transferring, possessing, or sharing obscene, sexually oriented, lewd or otherwise illegal images or other content, commonly referred to as “sexting,” will be disciplined according to the Student Code of Conduct, may be required to complete an educational program related to the dangers of this type of behavior, and, in certain circumstances, may be reported to law enforcement. Because engaging in this type of behavior can lead to bullying or harassment, as well as possibly impede future endeavors of a student, we encourage you to review with your child http://beforeyoutext.com, a state-developed program that addresses the consequences of engaging in inappropriate behavior using technology.
Testing In addition to routine testing and other ongoing assessment of student progress, students at certain grade levels will take appropriate state-required assessments: 1. State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) – Reading and mathematics tests are administered to all students in grades six, seven, and eight. Writing is administered in grade seven and science and social studies are administered in grade eight. 2. STAAR EOC (End-of-Course) exams are administered to students enrolled in courses for high school credit for which an end of course exam exists. STAAR EOC exams are administered
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in Algebra I, Biology, English I, English II, and US History. 3. STAAR Alternate 2 is an assessment for special education students for whom the STAAR is not appropriate. These tests are administered at the same grade levels and subjects as the STAAR test. 4. Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System (TELPAS) measures English proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening for students who are designated as Limited English Proficient (LEP). Students who do not pass a grade-level STAAR or STAAR EOC exam will be provided with accelerated instruction in the subject area tested. Test results will be reported to parents. Certain students, such as students with disabilities and students with limited English proficiency, are eligible for accommodations. For more information, see the administrator, counselor, or special education director.
Instructional Materials (Textbooks, workbooks, and supplementary materials), Electronic Instructional Materials (software, magnetic media, DVD, CD-ROM), and Technological Equipment Instructional materials, selected for use in the public schools shall be furnished without cost to students attending those schools. Instructional materials may be either issued individually or used as a class set. Each student, or the student's parent or guardian, is responsible for all instructional materials and technological equipment not returned in an acceptable condition by the student. A student who fails to return in an acceptable condition all instructional materials and technological equipment forfeits the right to free instructional materials and technological equipment until all instructional materials and technological equipment previously issued but not returned in an acceptable condition are paid for by the student, parent, or guardian. As provided by policy of the board of trustees or governing body, a school district or open-enrollment charter school may waive or reduce the payment requirement if the student is from a low-income family. The district or school shall allow the student to use instructional materials and technological equipment at school during each school day. If instructional materials or technological equipment is not returned in an acceptable condition or paid for, the district or school may withhold the student's records. Texas Education Code §31.104(d)
Tutorials Teachers offer tutorials as an intervention for students who are failing or who may need extra help. Any student who has a grade lower than 70, may be required to attend tutorials during the school day. Students should consult their teachers or counselors for tutorial information and schedules. It is the student’s responsibility to attend tutorial sessions.
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ACTIVITIES Approval and Scheduling of Student Activities All student activities must be submitted by the appropriate sponsor to the principal or designee. All school-sponsored activities must have a school sponsor present. To avoid conflicts in scheduling activities, a school calendar of events should be consulted before a definite date for an activity has been approved and the date has been set. The administrator will put the activity on the school calendar. Normally, no student activities will be held the last week of school or during scheduled state standardized testing. Student activities will not be scheduled the week prior to semester exams.
Clubs and Organizations – Types Permitted Clubs and organizations such as athletics, cheerleading, dance, art, theatre, orchestra, band, and choir, may establish codes of conduct and consequences for misbehavior that are stricter than those for students in general. With administrative approval, RRISD high schools and middle schools sponsor many clubs and organizations such as Foreign Language, Literary, Math, Multi-Cultural, Business, Fine arts, Honor Societies, Science, Service, Social Studies, Student Council, and Career and Technology. Each member of a school organization must adhere to school rules and regulations as well as club rules on and off campus when participating in school or organizational activities. Infraction of rules may result in disciplinary action and/or dismissal from the club. If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the consequences specified by the Student Code of Conduct will apply in addition to any consequences specified by the organization. All organizations must have a teacher sponsor approved by the principal. A constitution is required and must be approved by the administration and be on file in the principal’s office. Hazing and initiation are not allowed.
Clubs, Gangs, and Organizations – Types Not Permitted “Fraternity” or “Sorority” type clubs, where the club selects its members rather than membership being open to all students, are forbidden. Secret societies and “gangs” are also forbidden. Texas Education Code § 37.121 (d) A “public school fraternity, sorority, secret society, or ‘gang’ means an organization composed wholly or in parts of students of public primary or secondary schools that seeks to perpetuate itself by taking in additional members from the student enrolled in school on the basis of the decision of its membership rather than on the free choice of a student in the school who is qualified by the rules of the school to fill the special aims of the organization.” The term does not include an agency for public welfare, scholarship societies, or other similar education organizations sponsored by state or national education authorities. Texas Education Code § 37.121 (d) Gang type insignia, marking, dress, membership, and other activities are strictly prohibited. Any student who is a member of, pledges to become a member of, joins or solicits another person to join or pledge to become a member of a public school fraternity, sorority, secret society, or gang shall be recommended for placement in an alternative education setting. Texas Education Code § 37.121 (a)(b)
Conduct in Extracurricular Activities Sponsors, directors, and coaches of student clubs and performing groups such as the band, choir, cheerleading, drill and athletic teams may establish standards of behavior—including consequences for misbehavior—that are stricter than those for students in general. All students involved in extra-curricular activities are subject to the standards of conduct described in the RRISD extra-curricular Code of
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Conduct. If a violation is also a violation of school rules, the consequences specified by the Student Code of Conduct or by local policy will apply in addition to any consequences specified by the organization. Students and parents are expected to be knowledgeable of these requirements for membership and participation. Students should understand that participation in extracurricular activities/programs is a privilege and not a right, and certain behavior standards will apply to those who desire to be a part of them.
Elections Only those students who are currently enrolled in a RRISD school may try out for, campaign for, or be elected to positions for the following academic year. This policy includes club officers, cheerleaders, and others elected in the spring to serve for the following academic year. Students who violate school rules, regulations, or policies, or who are guilty of flagrant or serious violations may be required to forfeit the privilege of campaigning for or holding school office, positions of honor or any elected office or position.
Fees As stated in the Course Catalog, supply fees to purchase attire might be assessed for some fine arts classes.
Art Class Fees Fees will be assessed for participation in art classes to cover supplies and other consumable items. The fee shall be no more than $30.
Band, Choir, Dance, Orchestra, Piano and Theatre Fees Fees will be assessed for participation in choir, dance and theatre to cover supplies and other items. If these fees pose a hardship for the family, students and parent may discuss options with the school counselor. Some waivers of fees are available for those in financial need.
Instrument Usage Fees Students who use school owned instruments will be charged an annual usage fee of $50.00 ($25.00 per semester). Students who share an instrument are charged one-half of this amount. Students qualifying for free/reduced price lunch and students who change from a privately-owned instrument to a school-owned instrument at the director’s request are exempted from paying the fee for the remainder of the year. [Board Policy FP (Regulation)] Note: Percussionists are charged $25 for the year. Sixth grade percussionists are not charged this fee.
Waiver of Fees [Board Policy FP (Local)] Fees shall be waived for district students enrolled in the free and reduced lunch program or for those who show that they qualify for the free and reduced lunch program.
Forfeiture of Honors, Offices, and Membership Any student who withdraws from school or school activities for any period of time forfeits claims to offices, honors, membership, or any other situation for which student status is necessary. All school activities are based on their contributions to educational objectives. The privilege of participation or of holding offices or positions of honor shall require maintaining high standards of conduct and strict observance rules, regulations, and policies. Circumstances of the violation, the welfare of the individual involved, and the effect on the other participants who have conscientiously observed the rules, standards, and policies, will be considered in any punishment or suspension. All students holding
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offices or positions of honor must meet eligibility requirements as stated in the organization’s constitution/by-laws.
Fundraising Projects Each class or club is allowed two fund-raising projects with vendors during the school year to obtain money for class or club needs. These fund-raising projects must be approved by the appropriate sponsor and by the administrator and central office designee. Students may not be involved in any door-to-door or “can shake” solicitation. Parent groups may be permitted to organize fund-raising drives but must obtain permission well in advance from the administrator and the District. At no time are parents or students permitted to hire companies to raise funds for them or to solicit via phone. Fund-raising is not permitted on the campus except as approved by the administrator and the District. Sales or delivery of food products by campus or outside organizations must be in compliance with guidelines established by the USDA Nutrition Standards for All Foods Sold in Schools and local wellness policy.
Gifts Gifts – Students Students are asked to discourage organizations or groups within the community from presenting them, as individuals, with gifts of value. Students engaged in UIL activities shall not accept gifts except as provided by UIL Constitution and Contest Rules, Subchapter O, Section 480. This provision is not intended to discourage acts of generosity to students in unusual situations or gifts of value to the school for use by all students; however, all gifts must be approved by the Superintendent.
Gifts – Community Service The Board realizes that community service is an integral part of the instruction process. An established student organization may adopt a community project with an entity qualified under federal tax law to receive donations for charitable purchases. These organizations must file a copy of their approved 501c3 status with the Financial Services Department prior to the start of the fund-raising activity. Adopted projects shall not benefit an individual or an organization without a 501c3 status. [Board Policy FJ (Regulation)]. As outlined in Board Policy DBD, employees shall not accept any gift, favor, service or other benefit that could reasonably be construed to influence the employee’s discharge of assigned duties and responsibilities.
Organization and Club Funds (Activity Fund) Each campus will maintain a unique account to manage activity funds. All funds relating to the campus and any associated school organization shall be deposited to the activity fund account in the same form as they are received. Only organization sponsors are authorized to make purchases from the activity accounts upon approval by the campus administrator. These purchases may not exceed the account balance and must follow established policies and procedures as prescribed in the Financial Information Resource Manual (FIRM) online. At no time shall purchases be made from collected cash on hand. Students and parents are not allowed to make purchases in the name of the school.
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All financial actions of clubs/organizations must be reflected in the minutes of meetings. Organizational records and financial documentation must be maintained by the sponsor for a period of five years and may be audited at any time by the District’s Internal Audit staff.
School Spirit and Sportsmanship Courtesy must be given to teachers, fellow students, and the officials involved in all school activities Spirit and cheering at competitive school events should be positive for the school’s team and never be negative against officials or opponents. Booing is never acceptable. Noisemakers are NOT allowed at any school event. Posters/signs must have prior approval from the appropriate administrator before they can be displayed. Student spectators are not allowed on the court/field or to cross to the other side of the playing field unless specifically permitted.
School Sponsored Trips Many trips are arranged for students during the school year, either curricular, or extra-curricular. Students making a school trip are expected to travel by bus or school-endorsed transportation. RRISD field trip permission forms are required for all school trips. All District and school rules are in effect on school trips. Eligibility for all school field trips will be determined by the school administrator. Students who participate in school-sponsored trips shall be required to ride in transportation provided or arranged by the school to and from the event. An exception may be made if the student’s parent or guardian formally requests that the student be allowed to ride with the parent, guardian, or stated adult designee. A written request must be made to the principal the day before the scheduled trip and state that the student be allowed to ride with the adult stated on the request. The District shall not be liable for any injuries that occur to students riding in vehicles not provided by the school. [Board Policy FMG (Local)]
Student Council The Student Council is the representative group of the school body. Care should be taken to elect wellqualified students to the council. Requirements for eligibility of officers are set forth in the constitution of the council. During the spring, high school candidates are elected for the following year. Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors have the opportunity to vote in the election. In middle school, elections should be held before October with all students having the opportunity to vote in the election.
University Interscholastic League (UIL) Contests All students who meet the necessary requirements are encouraged to participate in UIL contests. Students should contact the coaches, directors, or sponsors if they are interested in participating. Generally, all school-related activities will operate by UIL guidelines whenever possible, whether or not the UIL sanctions them. Examples of UIL activities include: band, choir, orchestra, football, basketball, baseball, golf, soccer, volleyball, track & field, tennis, swimming, softball, cross country, wrestling, keyboarding, number sense, science, informative speaking, debate, poetry interpretation, one-act play, prose reading, persuasive speaking, computer science, current events, journalism, calculator applications, spelling and vocabulary, literary criticism, ready writing, mathematics, accounting, computer applications, and orchestra. Other events may be added in the future. Students who are interested in participating in one or more of these activities should meet the following eligibility criteria: 1. Age Limit—Students 19 years of age or older as of September 1st preceding the contest are ineligible to participate. Students becoming 19 after September 1st remain eligible throughout the season. 2. Scholarship—See Activities Eligibility and Waivers (No Pass-No Play), in this handbook.
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ATTENDANCE Absences/Attendance Regular school attendance is essential for a student to make the most of his or her education—to benefit from teacher-led and school activities, to build each day’s learning on the previous day’s, and to grow as an individual. Absences from class may result in serious disruption of a student’s mastery of the instructional materials; therefore, the student and parent should make every effort to avoid unnecessary absences. Two state laws, one dealing with compulsory attendance, the other with attendance for course credit, are of special interest to students and parents. They are discussed below.
Compulsory Attendance State law requires that a student between the ages of six and 19 attend school, as well as any applicable accelerated instruction program, extended year program, or tutorial session, unless the student is otherwise excused from attendance or legally exempt. A student who voluntarily attends or enrolls after his/her 19th birthday is required to attend each school day until the end of the school year. If a student 19 or older has more than five unexcused absences in a semester the District may revoke the student’s enrollment. The student’s presence on school property thereafter would be unauthorized and may be considered trespassing (see Board Policy FEA). Prompt and strict action will be taken against truant students. Appropriate action may include contact with the home by the District community liaison officer. Students who are truant from school will be required to make up missed time by serving Saturday detention.
Compulsory Attendance Exemptions State law allows exemptions to the compulsory attendance requirements for several types of absences if the student makes up all work. These include the following activities and events: 1. Religious holy days; 2. Required court appearances; 3. Activities related to obtaining United States citizenship; 4. Service as an election clerk; 5. Sounding “TAPS” at a military honors funeral; and 6. Documented health-care appointments, including absences for recognized services for students diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. A note from the health-care provider must be submitted upon the student’s return to campus. In addition, a junior or senior student’s absences of up to two days related to visiting a college or university will be considered an exemption, provided the student receives approval from the campus principal, follows the campus procedures to verify such a visit, and makes up any work missed. In addition, absences related to a student visiting with his or her parent related to leave or deployment activities may be excused by the district. The district will permit no more than three excused absences per year for this purpose. Additional information may be found at http://ritter.tea.state.tx.us/mil/.
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Failure to Comply with Compulsory Attendance When a student between ages 6 and 19 incurs unexcused absences for three or more days or parts of days within a four-week period, the school will send a notice to the student’s parent, as required by law, to remind the parent that it is the parent’s duty to monitor his or her child’s attendance and to require the student to come to school. The notice will also inform the parent that the district will initiate truancy prevention measures and request a conference between school administrators and the parent. These measures will include a behavior improvement plan, school-based community service, or referrals to either in-school or out-of-school counseling or other social services. Any other measures considered appropriate by the district will also be initiated. Failure to Comply with Compulsory Attendance - Between Ages 6 and 19 When a student between ages 6 and 19 incurs unexcused absences for three or more days or parts of days within a four-week period, the school will send a notice to the student’s parent, as required by law, to remind the parent that it is the parent’s duty to monitor his or her child’s attendance and to require the student to come to school. The notice will also inform the parent that the district will initiate truancy prevention measures and request a conference between school administrators and the parent. These measures will include a behavior improvement plan, school-based community service, or referrals to either in-school or out-of-school counseling or other social services. Any other measures considered appropriate by the district will also be initiated. The truancy prevention facilitator for the district is Thomasine Stewart. If you have questions about your student and the effect of his or her absences from school, please contact the facilitator or any other campus administrator. A court of law may also impose penalties against a student’s parent if a school-aged student is deliberately not attending school. A complaint against the parent may be filed in court if the student is absent without excuse from school on ten or more days or parts of days within a sixmonth period in the same school year. If a student ages 12 through 18 incurs unexcused absences on ten or more days or parts of days within a six-month period in the same school year, the district, in most circumstances, will refer the student to truancy court. [See policy FEA(LEGAL).] School employees must investigate and report violations of the state compulsory attendance law. A student absent without permission from school; from any class; from required special programs, such as additional special instruction (termed “accelerated instruction” by the state) assigned by a grade placement committee and basic skills for ninth graders; or from required tutorials will be considered in violation of the compulsory attendance law and subject to disciplinary action. If a student age 12 through age 17 violates the compulsory attendance law, both the parent and student could be charged with a criminal offense. [See policy FEA (LEGAL).]
Attendance for Credit To receive credit in a class, a student must attend at least 90 percent of the days the class is offered. A student who attends at least 75 percent but fewer than 90 percent of the days the class is offered may receive credit for the class if he or she completes a plan, approved by the principal that allows the student to fulfill the instructional requirements for the class. If a student is involved in a criminal or juvenile court proceeding, the approval of the judge presiding over the case will also be required before the student receives credit for the class.
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If a student attends less than 75 percent of the days a class is offered or has not completed a plan approved by the principal, then the student will be referred to the attendance review committee to determine whether there are extenuating circumstances for the absences and how the student can regain credit, if appropriate (see Board Policy FEC). In determining whether there were extenuating circumstances for the absences, the attendance committee will use the following guidelines (see guidelines at Board Policy FEC): 1. All absences will be considered in determining whether a student has attended the required percentage of days. If makeup work is completed satisfactorily, absences for the reasons listed above at Compulsory Attendance Exemptions will be considered days of attendance for this purpose. 2. A transfer or migrant student begins to accumulate absences only after he or she has enrolled in the district. For a student transferring into the district after school begins, including a migrant student, only those absences after enrollment will be considered. 3. In reaching a decision about a student’s absences, the committee will attempt to ensure that it is in the best interest of the student. 4. The committee will consider the acceptability and authenticity of documented reasons for the student’s absences. 5. The committee will consider whether the absences were for reasons over which the student or the student’s parent could exercise any control. 6. The committee will consider the extent to which the student has completed all assignments, mastered the essential knowledge and skills, and maintained passing grades in the course or subject. 7. The student or parent will be given an opportunity to present any information to the committee about the absences and to talk about ways to earn or regain credit. The student or parent may appeal the committee’s decision to the board of trustees by filing a written request with the superintendent in accordance with policy FNG(LOCAL). The actual number of days a student must be in attendance in order to receive credit will depend on whether the class is for a full semester or for a full year.
Examples of Extenuating Circumstances 1. An excused absence 2. Days of suspension. If a student is suspended, the absences shall be considered as excused absences if the student satisfactorily completes the assignments for the period of suspension within a reasonable time determined by the District. 3. Days of suspension. If a student is suspended, the absences shall be considered as excused absences if the student satisfactorily completes the assignments for the period of suspension within a reasonable time determined by the District. 4. A student who has been referred to a juvenile court for delinquent conduct or conduct indicating a need for supervision shall receive an excused absence for any missed class when: ▪ The assigned juvenile judge or probation officer has detained the student or required the student to participate in activities related to the student’s referral; ▪ Detention or participation in such activities resulted in absence from class;
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▪
The probation officer communicates the cause of the absence in writing to District personnel; and ▪ The student successfully completes all missed assignments. 5. Late enrollment or early withdrawal of a migrant student as defined by 34 DFR 201.3 6. Days missed as a runaway as defined by Family Code 51.03(b)(3). 7. Late enrollment or early withdrawal of a student placed in or having resided in a community care home by the Texas Youth Commission (TYC). 8. Absences of a teen parent due to caring for his or her child. 9. Participation in a substance abuse rehabilitation program. 10. Homelessness, as defined in federal law. 11. A student who has been referred to the Texas Department of Human Services or a county or local welfare unit on the basis that he or she has been abused or neglected shall be excused when: ▪ The assigned caseworker has required the student to participate in activities related to the student’s referral; ▪ Participation in such activities resulted in an absence from class; ▪ The caseworker communicates the cause of the absence in writing to District personnel; and ▪ The student successfully completes all missed assignments. 12. Extracurricular Activities: Students who are participating in an extracurricular activity approved by the Board and under the direction of a professional staff member shall not be counted absent from school. 13. Special Education Students: For students who receive special education services, the ARD committee shall determine absences due to the student’s handicapping condition as extenuating circumstances and shall determine any modifications necessary regarding make-up work. (Texas Education Code §25.086) The student or parent may appeal the committee’s decision to the board of trustees by filing a written request with the superintendent in accordance with policy FNG (LOCAL). The actual number of days a student must be in attendance in order to receive credit, will depend on whether the class is for a full semester or for a full year. A student and the student’s parent or guardian shall be given written notice prior to and at such time when a student’s attendance in any class drops below 90 percent of the days the class is offered. Students whose excess absences warrant the loss of credit as noted above may only regain the lost credit by fulfilling the requirements established by the campus attendance committee in accordance with Board Policy FEC (Local). The attendance committee may use any of the following options as ways to allow students to regain credit lost for lack of attendance: tutorials, additional assignments, research projects, individual papers or oral reports, library activity, laboratory activity, computer-assisted instruction, peer tutoring, assessment of classroom objectives, daily or Saturday guided study, alternative education assignment, study hall, community or campus service, summer school, examinations to earn credit in accordance with Board Policy EEJA (Local). In all cases, the student must also earn a passing grade in order to receive credit. Students who are required by the attendance committee to attend Saturday School to receive attendance credit are required to remit a $20.00 attendance fee to the campus business office prior to attendance at a Saturday School session. Fees shall be waived for district students enrolled in the free and reduced lunch program or for those who show that they qualify for the free and reduced lunch program. The campus principal may waive fees for Saturday School.
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Students denied credit due to excessive absences should contact their grade level principal if they desire to appeal the denial of credit. This legislative requirement of minimum attendance should not be construed as allowing a certain number of days of absence. Students should be in school every day possible. RRISD students should be aware that the City of Austin and Round Rock enforces a daytime teen curfew for children under 17 to be in effect from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on weekdays when school is in session. The evening curfew is from midnight to 6 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Williamson County has a curfew from midnight to 6 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and 1 to 6 a.m. Friday and Saturday.
Absence Due to School-Related Activities State law and RRISD Board Policy FM (Local) stipulates that students may not miss school for extracurricular activities more than ten days during the school year. Students are required to make up work missed during school-related activities. All absences due to school-related activities must meet eligibility requirements.
Absences – Excused The only excused absences are personal illness, death in the immediate family (parent, sibling, grandparent or a member of the immediate household), or school-related absence.
Absences – Unexcused A student absent from school for any reason other than personal illness, death in the immediate family, or a school-related absence will be assigned an unexcused absence. There is no academic penalty for an unexcused absence unless the unexcused absence is due to truancy. Excessive absences can result in loss of credit.
Absence - Parent’s Note after an Absence When a student is absent, s/he must bring a note from a parent or guardian stating the reason s/he was absent. If a student is absent due to illness for five consecutive days or more, a doctor’s note is required. A student should present the note to the campus designee/attendance clerk before class on the first day of his/her return following the absence. An “Admittance Slip” will be issued showing the date(s) absent. Even though parental notes are required, a call on the day of absence will be appreciated. See HOME ACCESS CENTER (HAC). See also Education Code 25.095 – Warning Notice in the Appendix.
Appointments – Health Care Professional Although every effort should be made to schedule appointments with health care professionals at times other than school hours, if a student returns to school the same day or attends part of the day prior to the doctor’s appointment and then presents a doctor’s note verifying the appointment, the absence is excused and the student is counted present. In order for a student to be released for a medical appointment, the student must be picked up by the parent or guardian at the appropriate campus administrator/attendance clerk’s office or the parent may send a note to have the student released to go to the medical appointment. Middle school students leaving school early should be picked up in the main office. Students will not be permitted to wait outside for their ride. If it becomes necessary to leave school for an appointment, the student must present a parent note before school on the day of the appointment. The campus administrator/attendance clerk will issue a slip to allow the student to be dismissed from class. The student should be at the campus administrator/attendance clerk’s office at the specified time.
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Students arriving at school late or returning from an appointment are to sign in at the attendance desk in the campus designee/attendance clerk’s office. If a student begins classes and/or returns to school on the same day of a documented appointment with a health care provider during the regular school hours, the absence will be coded as a medical visit. The appointment must be supported by an original document signed by the health care professional. Students excused under this provision shall be allowed a reasonable time to make up school work missed on those days. If the student satisfactorily completes the homework, the days of absence shall be counted as days of compulsory attendance. A student whose absence is excused for an appointment with a health care professional shall not be penalized for the absence. Education Code 25.087; 19 TAC 129.01 Campus staff may verify health care professional appointment. Students found guilty of forgery or other falsification of parent notes, health care professional notes, or other documents will be disciplined and the absence classified as unexcused.
Attendance Committee Appeals Attendance committees will be established during the school year to hear appeals with regard to absences, which do not allow a student to attend the required number of days. If the attendance committee finds that there are no extenuating circumstances for absences, or if the student does not meet the conditions to regain credit, the student will not receive credit for that class. If that student has established a questionable pattern of absences, the attendance committee may require a physician’s or clinic’s statement of illness after a single day’s absence as a condition of classifying the absence as one for which there are extenuating circumstances. A list of sample extenuating circumstances of absences will be considered. Parents and students must provide all documentation prior to the appeal process. The Attendance Committee may require the student to perform certain activities approved by the Board in order to retain credit. Documentation of these activities shall be the responsibility of the student and parent and shall be a major criterion in the determination of credit(s) awarded or denied by the Attendance Committee.
College Visits Seniors and juniors may have an excused absence from school for the purpose of visiting colleges/universities for a total of two days per year. Upon return from the visit, the student must give the appropriate administrator documentation from a college official. The two sanctioned college visits will not count against exam exemptions.
Driver’s License Attendance Verification (VOE) To obtain a driver’s license, a student under the age of 18 must annually provide to the Texas Department of Public Safety a form obtained from the school verifying that the student has met the 90 percent attendance requirement for the semester preceding the date of application. The student should request this form at their campus prior to the last week of school. VOE forms are valid for 30 days after issuance in the spring and fall semesters and for 90 days during the summer.
Exemptions from Semester Exams Students may be exempted from three semester exams for classes in which they have a semester average of 85 or above and have no more than two absences that semester from that class, and are present on the exam days when attendance is taken. Students in EOC tested courses (Algebra I, English I, English II, Biology, and U.S. History) will be required to take the mid-semester exams in the fall; however they will not be required to take a spring semester final in the EOC tested subjects.
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The second semester courses exempted shall not be the same courses exempted the first semester. For exemption purposes only, three tardies count as an absence no matter where they occur across the schedule. Seniors and juniors may have up to four absences when two of those absences are the excused absences allowed for visiting colleges and universities. Only two days for college visits are allowed per year (see College Visits).
Make-Up Work 1. It is the responsibility of the student on the day s/he returns to school to contact each teacher regarding make-up work and to appear at the time scheduled for any make-up work. 2. If a student misses more than two consecutive days, s/he will have the same number of days to complete the make-up work as the number of days s/he was absent. 3. Different tests may be administered to students who miss the regularly scheduled tests. Written assignments may be requested over and above what was done in class. 4. At least 24 hours in advance of the event, parents need to contact an administrator for approval of an impending absence for a purpose other than for illness and/or death in the family. Students who miss class for a previously approved absence may be required to submit class work beforehand. 5. Parents wishing to request make-up assignments due to a student’s absence should contact the attendance office on the second day of the absence. Teachers are allowed 24 hours after the request to provide this make-up work.
Notification by Parent to School Since attendance has a direct relationship to learning, there should be a close partnership between the school and home. If a student is absent, the parent should call the appropriate administrator’s secretary/attendance office clerk in the morning to explain why the student is absent. If the parent has not called, the school will attempt to call the parent at home or at work to determine the reason for the absence. Should the parent know where the student is and the reason for the absence is not illness, death in the family, or a rare, serious extenuating circumstance, the absence is unapproved. Should the parent not know the student is absent, the student is considered to be truant and a note from the parent requesting an approved absence will not be accepted. Students who want to be excused from school in order to attend a religious retreat must provide verification of the event and organization. Within 48 hours following an absence, a student must present a note from his/her parent/guardian to the designated attendance person explaining why he/she was absent. Note: A note signed by a student who is under 18 years of age, even with the parent’s permission, will be considered a forgery and the student will be disciplined. If the student is absent five or more consecutive school days, he/she will be required to provide a doctor’s or dentist’s note as verification of illness. Failure to present this note will result in the days missed being counted as unexcused. To be classified as chronically ill, a student must present to the administrator a written notice from his/her physician stating the nature of his/her illness.
Notification to Parent by School The school will make good effort to contact parents regarding their student’s absence. All notification to parents concerning student absences is a courtesy to the parent non-notification is not a factor in determining required attendance for course credit. A total of five absences from any class, approved or unapproved, may result in a required conference with the parent and student and possible loss of credit.
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Participation in Activities Students may not be allowed to participate in school activities on days they are absent from school for any length of time, except with the special permission of the principal. Students who are absent without school approval and permission to prepare for school activities will not be allowed to participate in those activities. (Example: Missing school for a hair appointment to go to the prom.) This policy is in effect even if parents have given students permission to be absent from school. Students may not participate in any school activity on days they skip any part of the day, or on weekends or holidays following any school day of which they skipped any part. Similarly, students who are suspended from school may not participate in activities during the term of their suspension; furthermore, if the suspension includes the day before a weekend or holiday, the student may not participate in any activity until the school day he is eligible to return to school from the suspension. (Example: A student receives a two-day suspension on a Thursday morning; the suspension is for Thursday and Friday. The student is to return to school Monday morning. The student may not participate in any activity until 12:01 a.m. Monday.)
Tardy Slips Students are responsible for getting to school and to class on time. Tardy slips will be written in the office for students tardy to first period class or coming to school for the first time during the day. At all other times, students should report directly to their class with permission to enter the class from the teacher who kept them late.
Tardies / Late Arrivals to Class A tardy signifies that a student arrives after class begins and does not provide an acceptable explanation. The beginning of class is identified through an indicator (such as a bell or music) that is sounded at the end of the passing period. Teachers are responsible for marking students tardy on the attendance system, and the school office references this information to maintain records of the number of times a student is late for class. Consequences for late arrivals are assessed, and excessive, persistent tardies are considered a serious offense. For example, a student is marked absent if he/she arrives ten or more minutes after the indicator has sounded. Even more, three tardies count as one absence for exam exemption purposes regardless of where they occur across the schedule. Other consequences are established, posted, and enforced by each campus. Any error in marked absences or tardies must be reported to the attendance clerk and teacher within ten days of the student’s knowledge of the error or within ten days of receipt of the student’s report card. Corrections may not be made after this time. Moreover, parents should maintain accurate records of the date and reason for each absence of the student.
Truancy A student absent from school without approval of school officials and parents will be considered truant and subject to disciplinary action. Truancy is a serious infraction of school policy. Prompt and strict action will be taken against truant students. Appropriate action may include contact with the home by the District community liaison officer. Students who are truant from school will be required to make up missed time by serving Saturday detention. (See Making Up Missed Work.) Truancy may also result in assessment of penalties by a court of law against both the student and his or her parents. A complaint against the parent may be filed in the appropriate court if the student:
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1. Is absent from school on ten or more days or parts of days within a six-month period in the same school year, or 2. Is absent on three or more days or parts of days within a four-week period. See the Education Code 25.095 – Warning Notices in the Appendix.
Withdrawing From School Students withdrawing from school will proceed as follows: 1. Report to the office for a “withdrawal form” which should be signed by parent/legal guardian. 2. Turn in all books and equipment to the office. 3. Report to each teacher to obtain a grade and get a clearance signature. 4. Have the librarian clear library records. (All fines and books must be clear.) 5. Take the form back to the office. If all records are cleared, the administrator will sign the withdrawal form. 6. No student will be issued a report card or transcript until the student has paid all fees and is officially withdrawn. A student under 18 may be withdrawn from school only by a parent/legal guardian. The school requests notice from the parent/legal guardian at least three days in advance so that records and documents may be prepared. The parent/legal guardian may obtain a withdrawal form from the principal’s office. On the student’s last day, the withdrawal form must be presented to each teacher for current grade averages and book and equipment clearance; to the librarian to ensure a clear library record; to the clinic for health records; to the counselor for the last report card and course clearance; and finally, to the principal. A copy of the withdrawal form will be given to the student, and a copy will be placed in the student’s permanent record. A student who is 18 or older, who is married, or who has been declared by a court to be an emancipated minor may withdraw from school without parental/legal guardianship signature.
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BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS Bullying Bullying is written or verbal expression, expressions through electronic means, or physical conduct that occurs on school property, at a school-sponsored or school-related activity, or in a vehicle operated by the district that a school District’s Board of Trustees or the Board’s designee determines: 1. Has the effect or will have the effect of physically harming a student, damaging a student’s property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s person or of damage to the student’s property; or 2. Is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive to create an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for a student. 3. Exploits an imbalance of power between the student perpetrator and the student victim through written or verbal expression or physical conduct; and 4. Interferes with a student’s education or substantially disrupts the operation of the school. Bullying may include hazing, threats, taunting, teasing, assault, demands for money, confinement, destruction of property, theft of valued possessions, name-calling, rumor-spreading, or ostracism. Bullying can be considered a form of Harassment if the behavior is based on race, color, religion, gender, gender-identity, sexual-orientation, national origin, or disability and is so severe, persistent or pervasive that the conduct; 1. Affects a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity, or creates an intimidating, threatening, hostile, or offensive educational environment; 2. Has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with the student’s academic performance; or 3. Otherwise adversely affects the student’s educational opportunities. Bullying that can occur through electronic methods is called “cyberbullying.” Cyberbullying is defined as willful and repeated harm inflicted through the use of electronic communication. Electronic communication includes but is not limited to email, instant messaging, text messages, blogs, mobile phones, pagers, online games, and web sites, whether or not this conduct originated on school property or with school equipment so long as: 1. A reasonable person should know, under the circumstances, that the act will have the effect of harming a student or damaging the student’s property, or placing a student in reasonable fear of harm to his or her person or damage to his or her property; and has the effect of insulting or demeaning any student or group of students in such a way as to cause substantial disruption in, or substantial interference with, the orderly operation of the school; or 2. The act is directed specifically at students and intended for the purpose of disrupting school, and has a high likelihood of succeeding in that purpose. Although most cyberbullying is created on devices that are not owned by the district or not located on school property, cyberbullying can still interfere with a student’s education or substantially disrupt the operation of the school If a student believes that he or she has experienced bullying, it is important for the student or parent to notify a teacher, counselor, principal, or another district employee. The administration will investigate any allegations of bullying and will take appropriate disciplinary action if an investigation indicates that bullying has occurred.
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The Board of Trustees has established policies and procedures to prohibit bullying and to respond to
reports of bullying [See FFI (Local)]. Dress Policy There is a close relationship between high standards of dignity and pride and proper grooming which all contribute to an appropriate learning environment. Modesty will be the dominant feature in all clothes. Attire shall be clean and inoffensive. The student and parent share in responsibility for proper grooming of the student; however, the campus administrators are charged with enforcing the dress code. The campus administrators/District have the interpretative authority as to what dress or grooming is inappropriate or disruptive at school or any time a student is representing Round Rock ISD.
Unacceptable Clothing and Accessories General Information:
● No clothing featuring pictures, emblems, writings, or slogans that are lewd, offensive risqué, vulgar, obscene, provocative, or that convey hate messages or racially, religiously, or ethnically demeaning message may be worn (including jewelry or accessories). ● No apparel or accessories shall depict tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, drugs or any other dangerous, prohibited, or controlled substance ● No attire or grooming that identifies, condones, depicts, or promotes a student as part of an unauthorized group, such as a gang. ● No clothing or accessories that promote violence, weapons, bombs, illegal acts, or anything that could be construed as provocative or offensive or otherwise distract from the learning environment, as determined by the administrators. ● No bedroom attire (pajamas, slippers, etc.) ● No clothing that is too tight such as spandex/lycra unless worn with a dress, skirt, or tunic (using the standards that are applied to shorts, skirts, and skorts) ● No holes in apparel that expose any areas that are not allowed by this dress code
Pants, Jeans: ●
●
Shorts, skirts, and skorts must be at finger-tip or mid-thigh length as measured with relaxed shoulders Pants, jeans, shorts, skirts, and skorts must be worn at the hip and cover undergarments
Shirts, Blouses, Sweatshirts, Sweaters, Vests, Jackets, Coats: ● ● ● ● ●
No strapless tops, spaghetti-strap tops, backless, halters, large armholes, or off-the-shoulder tops No low necklines (which reveal cleavage) No see-through or mesh shirts, when shirt worn underneath does not meet this dress code Tops must meet the beltline and must not reveal undergarments or skin No full-length jackets and coats such as those commonly referred to as “trench coats” or “dusters”
Eyewear and Accessories: ● ●
● ●
Sunglasses shall not be worn in the building No metal-studded collars, choker chains, armbands, wristbands, chains, or other metal-studded accessories are permitted Piercings/accessories that pose a safety concern or are distracting (i.e. chain from nose piercing to ear) are prohibited No wheeled footwear
Headgear: ●
Hats, caps, sweatbands, scarves, bandanas, doo-rags, hoods, and other headgear shall not be worn inside campus buildings without administrative approval
The administrator in cooperation with the sponsor, coach, or other person in charge of extracurricular activity (or curricular activity such as a concert), may regulate the dress and grooming of students who participate in the activity.
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If the principal determines that a student’s grooming or clothing violates the school’s dress code, the student will be given an opportunity to correct the problem at school. If not corrected, an appropriate consequence will be assigned, until the problem is corrected, or until a parent or designee brings an acceptable change of clothing to the school. Repeated offenses may result in more serious disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.
Harassment The District believes that all students learn best in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, dating violence, and retaliation and that their welfare is best served when they are free from this prohibited conduct while attending school. The term “prohibited conduct” when used below, includes discrimination, harassment, dating violence, and retaliation as defined, even if the behavior does not rise to the level of unlawful conduct. Students are expected to treat other students and district employees with courtesy and respect; to avoid behaviors known to be offensive; and to stop those behaviors when asked or told to stop. District employees are expected to treat students with courtesy and respect. RRISD prohibits discrimination and harassment involving District students. RRISD policy also prohibits retaliation against any person, including a victim, a witness, or another person, who in good faith provides information concerning an incident of discrimination or harassment. No student shall be subjected to prohibited conduct in any RRISD facility: 1. During any education program or activity; or 2. While in school, on school equipment or property, in school vehicles, on school buses, at designated school bus stops, at school-sponsored activities, at school-sanctioned events; or 3. Through the use of data, telephone or computer software that is accessed through a computer, computer system, or computer network of any RRISD campus
Discrimination Discrimination is defined as any conduct directed at a student on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law, which negatively affects the student.
Harassment Harassment of a student is defined as physical, verbal, or nonverbal conduct based on the student’s race, color, religion, gender, national origin, disability, or any other basis prohibited by law that is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that the conduct: 1. Affects a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity, or creates an intimidating, threatening, hostile, or offensive educational environment; 2. Has the purpose of effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with the student’s academic performance; or 3. Otherwise adversely affects the student’s educational opportunities. Harassment includes sexual harassment, gender based harassment and dating violence (FFH Local). A copy of the District’s policy is available in the principal’s office and in the superintendent’s office or at www.roundrockisd.org. Examples of harassment may include, but are not limited to, offensive or derogatory language directed at a person’s religious beliefs or practices, accent, skin color, or need for accommodation; threatening, intimidating or humiliating conduct; offensive jokes, name-calling, slurs, or rumors; physical aggression or assault; display of graffiti or printed material promoting
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racial, ethnic, or other negative stereotypes; or other kinds of aggressive conduct such as theft or damage to property. This also includes cyber-bullying or any types of harassment via social media using the internet, cell phones, or other technologies.
Sexual Harassment Sexual harassment of a student by an employee or volunteer does not include necessary or permissible physical contact not reasonably construed as sexual in nature. However, romantic and other inappropriate social relationships, as well as all sexual relationships, between students and district employees are prohibited, even if consensual. Examples of prohibited sexual harassment may include, but not be limited to, touching private body parts or coercing physical contact that is sexual in nature; sexual advances; jokes or conversations of a sexual nature; and other sexually motivated conduct, communications, or contact. Examples of harassing conduct that may not meet the definition of sexual harassment but that may subject a student to disciplinary action include, but are not limited to the following: 1. Touching (arm, breast, buttock, or other parts of the body) 2. Verbal comments of offensive nature 3. Name-calling, including racial or sexual epithets 4. Spreading sexual rumors 5. Leers, stares, howling, catcalls, whistles, making kissing sounds or smacking sounds, licking the lips suggestively, facial expressions (winking, kissing) 6. Sexual or “dirty” jokes 7. Cartoons, pictures, and pornography 8. Using technology to leave sexual messages 9. Sheared pants that are revealing above mid thigh 10. Pressure for sexual activity 11. Cornering, blocking, standing too close, following, stalking, etc. 12. Conversations that are too personal 13. “Rating” an individual on a scale from 1 to 10 14. Obscene T-shirts, hats, pins 15. “Wedgies” (pulling underwear up at the waist so it goes in between the buttocks) 16. Sexual assault and attempted sexual assault 17. Rape 18. Massaging the neck, massaging the shoulders 19. Touching oneself sexually in front of others 20. Graffiti 21. Repeatedly asking someone out when he or she is not interested 22. “Spiking”/ “Pantsing” (pulling down someone’s pants) 23. “Slam books” (lists of student names with derogatory sexual comments written about them by other students) 24. “Making out” in the hallway 25. Bullying with words or actions
Gender- Based Harassment Gender-based harassment includes physical, verbal, or nonverbal conduct based on the student’s gender, the student’s expression of characteristics perceived as stereotypical for the student’s gender, or the student’s failure to conform to stereotypical notions of masculinity or femininity. Gender-based harassment is considered prohibited harassment if the conduct is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that the conduct affects a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity, or creates an intimidating, threatening, hostile, or
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offensive educational environment; has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with the student’s academic performance; or otherwise adversely affects the student’s educational opportunities. Examples of gender-based harassment directed against a student, regardless of the student’s or the harasser’s actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity, may include offensive jokes, name-calling, slurs, or rumors; physical aggression or assault; threatening or intimidating conduct; or other kinds of aggressive conduct such as theft or damage to property.
Dating Violence Dating violence occurs when a person in a current or past dating relationship uses physical, sexual, verbal, or emotional abuse to harm, threaten, intimidate, or control the other person in the relationship. Dating violence also occurs when a person commits these acts against a person in a dating relationship with the individual who is or was once in a dating relationship with the person committing the offense. Dating violence is considered prohibited harassment if the conduct is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that the conduct affects a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity, or creates an intimidating, threatening, hostile, or offensive educational environment; has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with the student’s academic performance; or otherwise adversely affects the student’s educational opportunities. Examples of dating violence against a student may include physical or sexual assaults; namecalling; put-downs; or threats directed at the student, the student’s family members, or members of the student’s household. Additional examples may include destroying property belonging to the student, threatening to commit suicide or homicide if the student ends the relationship, attempting to isolate the student from friends and family, stalking, threatening a student’s spouse or current dating partner, or encouraging others to engage in these behaviors.
Retaliation Retaliation against a person who makes a good faith report of discrimination or harassment, including dating violence, is prohibited. Retaliation against a person who is participating in an investigation of alleged discrimination or harassment is also prohibited. A person who makes a false claim or offers false statements or refuses to cooperate with a district investigation, however, may be subject to appropriate discipline. Retaliation against a student might occur when a student receives threats from another student or an employee or when an employee imposes an unjustified punishment or unwarranted grade reduction. Retaliation does not include petty slights and annoyances from other students or comments from a teacher that are justified by a student’s poor academic performance in the classroom.
Reporting Procedures Any student who believes that he or she has experienced any of the above prohibited conduct should immediately report the problem to a teacher, counselor, principal, or other district employee. The report may be made by the student’s parent. See policy FFH (LOCAL) for the appropriate districts officials to whom to make a report.
Investigation of Report To the extent possible, the district will respect the privacy of the student; however, limited disclosures may be necessary to conduct a thorough investigation and to comply with law. Allegations of prohibited conduct, which includes dating violence, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, will be promptly
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investigated. The district will notify the parents of any student alleged to have experienced prohibited conduct involving an adult associated with the district. In the event prohibited conduct involves another student, the district will notify the parents of the student alleged to have experienced the prohibited conduct when the allegations, if proven, would constitute a violation as defined by policy. During the course of an investigation, the district may take interim action to address the alleged prohibited conduct. If the district’s investigation indicates that prohibited conduct occurred, appropriate disciplinary or corrective action will be taken to address the conduct. The district may take disciplinary action even if the conduct that is the subject of the complaint was not unlawful. A student or parent who is dissatisfied with the outcome of the investigation may appeal in accordance with policy FNG (LOCAL). Sex discrimination in public education, including sexual harassment, is prohibited under Title IX of the Federal Education Act. RRISD’s Title IX Coordinator is Lindsey McPheeters. Complaints under Title IX should be directed to the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights, 1999 Bryan Street, Suite 1620, Dallas, TX, 75201 or 214-661-9600. Filing deadlines may be applicable. Retaliation for filing a Title IX complaint is prohibited by law.
Child Abuse and Neglect The district has established a plan for addressing child abuse and neglect, which may be accessed at www.roundrockisd.org. Child abuse may be physical, sexual, emotional/psychological, or labor/sex trafficking. As a parent, it is important for you to be aware of warning signs that could indicate a child may have been or is being abused. Abuse in the Texas Family Code is defined as any conduct harmful to a child’s mental, emotional, or physical welfare as well as a failure to make a reasonable effort to prevent such conduct to a child. Neglect in the Texas Family Code is defined as improper supervision of a child or failure to obtain or administer necessary medical treatment that could result in substantial harm, failure to provide necessary food, shelter, and clothing to maintain a healthy lifestyle, or abandonment or refusal to accept parental/guardian responsibilities. Anyone who suspects that a child has been or may be abused or neglected has a legal responsibility, under state law, for reporting the suspected abuse or neglect to law enforcement or to Child Protective Services (CPS). As a parent, if your child is a victim of abuse, the campus counselor or principal may provide information regarding counseling options for you and your child available in your area. The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (TDFPS) also offers early intervention counseling programs. To find out what services may be available in your county, see http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Prevention_and_Early_Intervention/Programs_Available_In_Your_County/def ault.asp. The following Web sites provide additional information: https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/cvs/what-we-can-do-about-child-abuse-1 https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/cvs/what-we-can-do-about-child-abuse-2 Reports may be made to: The Child Protective Services (CPS) division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (1-800-252-5400) or on the Web at (http://www.txabusehotline.org).
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Law Enforcement Questioning of Students When law enforcement officers or other lawful authorities wish to question or interview a student at school: 1. The principal will verify and record the identity of the officer or other authority and ask for an explanation of the need to question or interview the student at school. 2. The principal ordinarily will make reasonable efforts to notify the parents unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection. 3. The principal ordinarily will be present unless the interviewer raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection. 4. The principal will cooperate fully regarding the conditions of the interview, if the questioning or interview is part of a child abuse investigation. Refer to RRISD Board Policy GRA (Local).
Students Taken Into Custody State law requires the District to permit a student to be taken into legal custody: 1. To comply with an order of the juvenile court. 2. To comply with the laws of arrest. 3. By a law enforcement officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has engaged in delinquent conduct or conduct in need of supervision. 4. By a probation officer if there is probable cause to believe the student has violated a condition of probation imposed by the juvenile court. 5. To comply with a properly issued directive to take a student into custody. 6. By an authorized representative of Child Protective Services, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, a law enforcement officer, or a juvenile probation officer, without a court order, under the conditions set out in the Family Code relating to the student’s physical health or safety. Refer to RRISD Board Policy GRA (Legal and Local). Before a student is released to a law enforcement officer or other legally authorized person, the principal will verify the officer’s identity and, to the best of his or her ability, will verify the official’s authority to take custody of the student.
Notification of Law Violations The principal will ordinarily attempt to notify the parent unless the officer or other authorized person raises what the principal considers to be a valid objection to notifying the parents. Because the principal does not have the authority to prevent or delay a student’s release to a law enforcement officer, notification will most likely be after the fact. Refer to Board Policy GRA (Local). The District is also required by state law to notify: 1. All instructional and support personnel who have responsibility for supervising a student who has been arrested or referred to the juvenile courts for any felony offense or for certain misdemeanors. 2. All instructional and support personnel who have regular contact with a student who is thought to have committed certain offenses or who has been convicted, received deferred prosecution, received deferred adjudication, or was adjudicated for delinquent conduct for any felony offense or certain misdemeanors. 3. All appropriate district personnel in regards to a student who is required to register as a sex offender.
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School Resource Officers Through an agreement between the District and the Round Rock Police Department and Williamson County Sheriff’s Department, secondary schools are served by School Resource Officers (SRO). SROs are stationed on campuses to provide assistance in maintaining safety and security for students and staff. Additionally, they provide classroom instruction on issues such as peer pressure, chemical abuse, conflict resolution and gang involvement alternatives. When it becomes necessary for the SRO to investigate a suspected criminal act, which occurs either on or off campus, school officials will make good effort to contact a parent or guardian regarding the questioning of a student. Situations of an emergency nature which could affect the health or safety of other students will be considered exceptions. Should parents or students wish to question the actions of the SRO or arresting officer, they may do so by contacting the appropriate law enforcement agency. See Board Policy GRA for additional information on SROs.
Leaving the Campus Once a student arrives at school, he/she is not permitted to leave campus at any time during the school day without administrative permission, except students classified as seniors who may leave during their respective lunch periods, or students who have completed their school day. Students who are enrolled in a work cooperative program may leave campus when their instruction day is completed. Seniors departing and returning from lunch must be prepared to wear or show their ID’s while doing so and when requested while off campus. Senior privilege of leaving campus for lunch may be revoked (for individuals or for the entire senior class) for any violation of closed campus rules. Should any student need to leave the campus for any reason, he/she must have the permission of an administrator and MUST SIGN OUT IN THE OFFICE AND MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS SHOULD WAIT IN THE OFFICE TO BE PICKED UP. Failure to obtain such permission and/or failure to sign out will result in an unexcused and/or truancy absence. STUDENTS SHOULD NOT ASK to leave the campus during the school day to get materials. Students may not sign themselves out and go home alone. All RRISD schools are closed campuses except for seniors who are allowed to leave campus for lunch. Seniors must show their Senior ID to leave campus for their lunch periods. If they do not have a valid Senior ID, they will not be permitted to leave the campus. If a senior attempts to take an underclassman off campus, he or she may lose his or her off-campus rights for the rest of the school year and may be subject to other disciplinary actions deemed appropriate by the campus principal or principal designee. All freshmen, sophomores, and juniors must remain on campus for lunch. Eating or drinking outside of the designated eating area will result in disciplinary action. Students in grades 9-11 who violate closed campus rules during their underclassmen years may lose their off-campus privilege as a senior. Seniors who leave campus during their lunch periods and fail to return and who have not signed out shall be counted as having an unexcused absence unless the parent/legal guardian notifies the school office or the student’s administrator before 4:00 p.m. of the afternoon of the absence. For safety reasons, seniors should plan to leave the campus only once and return to the campus only once during their lunch periods; there should be no unnecessary movement “back-and-forth” into and across streets. Theft from the school cafeteria will result in disciplinary consequences and may include notification to law enforcement.
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Searches - Use of Trained Dogs, Metal Detectors, Students’ Desks and Lockers, Vehicles on Campus The district will use trained dogs to alert school officials to the presence of prohibited or illegal items, including drugs and alcohol. At any time, trained dogs may be used around lockers and the areas around vehicles parked on school property. Searches of classrooms, common areas, or student belongings may also be conducted by trained dogs when students are not present. An item in a classroom, a locker, or a vehicle to which a trained dog alerts may be searched by school officials. Students will be subject to search by an administrator with a metal detector if there exists a reasonable suspicion that the student possesses a prohibited weapon. This search will be done in accordance with Board Policy FNF (Local). Student desks and lockers are school property and remain under the control and jurisdiction of the school even when assigned to an individual student. Students are fully responsible for the security and contents of the assigned desks and lockers. Students must be certain that the locker is locked, and that the combination is not available to others. Searches of desks or lockers may be conducted at any time there is reasonable cause to believe that they contain articles or materials prohibited by district policy, whether or not a student is present. Vehicles parked on school property are under the jurisdiction of the school. School officials may search any vehicle any time there is reasonable cause to do so, with or without the presence of the student. A student has full responsibility for the security and content of his or her vehicle and must make certain that it is locked and that the keys are not given to others. The parent will be notified if any prohibited items are found on a student or in the student’s desk, locker, or vehicle.
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OPERATING PROCEDURES Accommodations for Children of Military Families Children of military families will be provided flexibility regarding certain district requirements, including: ● Immunization requirements. ● Grade level, course, or educational program placement. ● Eligibility requirements for participation in extracurricular activities. ● Graduation requirements. In addition, absences related to a student visiting with his or her parent related to leave or deployment activities may be excused by the district. The district will permit no more than three excused absences per year for this purpose. Additional information may be found at http://tea.texas.gov/index2.aspx?id=7995.
Announcements All high school student announcements to be made over the public address system should be written in the form in which they are to be made and given to the high school administrator no later than 9:00 a.m. each day. Announcements will be made at a school designated time.
Backpacks Backpacks may be used to transport necessary school items to and from school and from class to class. If the backpack is too large due to hallway/classroom congestion, the school may require the student to store the backpack in their school issued locker.
Bicycles A bicycle rack is provided for bicycle storage during the school day, and each student is responsible for the security of his/her bicycle. Once students arrive on campus, they should dismount and walk their bikes to the bicycle rack. Students should always remember to pick up their bicycles later, should they leave school early due to illness. Bicycles should not be left at school overnight. The school is not responsible for damaged or stolen bicycles. Student
Bulletin Boards Before placing a notice on the bulletin boards in any of the classrooms or hallways, permission should be obtained from the teacher in charge of the bulletin board or from an administrator if the bulletin board is in a hall. Notices should never be attached to glass or surfaces that may be damaged by tape or tacks.
Care of Building The building is kept as clean and attractive as possible at all times and students are asked to cooperate in maintaining this standard. There are a number of wastebaskets conveniently placed throughout the campus, so it is not necessary to throw waste material on the floor or the school grounds. The desktops have a hard, smooth finish to provide a good writing surface. Writing or marking on any school property will not be tolerated. In instances where school property is marked on, broken, or otherwise abused, responsible students will be expected to pay replacement or repair costs. In addition, vandalism may be reported to local law enforcement.
Cars/Vehicles All high school students who are permitted to park cars/vehicles on campus must purchase a parking permit decal/tag from the administrator’s office. This decal/tag shall be displayed as specified in the school parking policy. School personnel who issue decals will distribute individual campus parking
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guidelines when decals/permits are purchased. Towing of vehicles, fines, and/or disciplinary action will be enforced for vehicle violations. Students may return to their cars only with prior permission from the appropriate administrator.
Change of Home Address, Telephone Number, or Electronic Mail Address Students who change home address, telephone number, or email address must inform the school registrar’s office in writing within three school days of the change. Failure on the part of parents/legal guardians to notify the school of a change of address and/or telephone number will prevent the school from communicating with parents/guardians. If a change of address is outside RRISD, the student shall be permitted to remain in attendance for the remainder of the school year upon receipt on an Application for Non-Resident Student transfer agreement, provided attendance, behavior, and academic expectations are met. Non-resident students shall follow all rules and regulations of the District, including, but not limited to, District policies and regulations, the Student Code of Conduct, and attendance requirements. Failure to fulfill any of these responsibilities will result in the immediate revocation of the transfer agreement. The District reserves the right to discontinue this practice should it be determined that it is no longer economically feasible or that space is no longer available. Using or giving a false address is against Texas law and can result in legal action against an adult and/or disciplinary action against a student.
Check Policy Checks written to the school or any school organization must include on the front of the check the name(s) of the student(s) involved in the transaction, drivers license number, and contact phone number. Post-dated checks are not accepted. In the event that a check written to any RRISD campus, club or organization is returned unpaid by your bank, RRISD or its agent will redeposit your check electronically. Additionally, RRISD may electronically collect a returned check fee of $30.00 plus applicable sales tax. The use of a check for payment is your ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND ACCEPTANCE of this policy and its terms.
Collectibles Collectibles and other valuable items should only be brought to school for a special purpose and with the permission of the teacher or an administrator. If brought to school the items will remain the responsibility of the student.
Complaints – Parents/Students When concerns arise between parents/students and the campus, all parties are encouraged to work with a good faith effort to resolve those concerns. If there is no resolution, Board Policy FNG (Local and Legal) provides a more formal process to follow. This process has required timelines which must be followed. There is a 15 working day period during which the parent must inform the principal of the concern and attempt an informal resolution. If there is no resolution, no later than the 15th working day from the day the parent knew or should have known of the concern, the Level I form must be filed. Complaint forms may be found at the Legal Services Department link to the RRISD Home Page (www.roundrockisd.org), at each campus or at the Legal Services Department in the central administration building. For more information refer to policy FNG (Local).
Directory Information RRISD recognizes students’ inherent right to privacy. The District adheres to all requirements of the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) and State and Federal open records laws. (See the Appendix in this handbook.) Parents of students have the right to file formal complaints concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of these laws.
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Under the FERPA, the term “directory information” means information contained in an education record of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. Directory information includes, but is not limited to, the student’s name, address, telephone listing, email address, photographs, date and place of birth, dates of attendance, grade level, enrollment status, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, honors and awards received, and the most recent educational agency attended. A student’s parent or guardian’s name, address, and telephone listing will be considered as directory information. Directory information is considered to be public information and may be released without consent; however, parents of students have the right to refuse the release of directory information. Notice of this refusal should be given to the campus registrar in writing on the form provided on the back of this handbook within ten school days of receipt of the handbook. Categories of directory information, such as name, address and telephone number, are included in the campus student directories unless parents refuse the release of this information. Once information is published in the campus student directory, the information becomes public and may be obtained by parties both inside and outside the school environment.
Toys and Other Miscellaneous Devices Electronics, games/toys, cameras/equipment, video cameras, radios, audio recording devices, laser pointers, and portable electronic music devices will not be permitted on campus except for instructional purposes with teacher permission and supervision. Any of the above items brought to school by a student for other than educational purposes will be kept in the school office and may be picked up by a parent/legal guardian. Items may be held in the school office until the conclusion of the school year. Replicas, fakes, and/or look-a-like weapons are prohibited on any campus.
Hall Pass/Permits Class time is important to teaching and learning time. Students should be present in class from the opening bell to the closing bell. Only students with an emergency situation may be excused from class to use the water fountains and/or restrooms; students must have an official written hall pass/permit from the classroom teacher. Students should have hall pass/permit visible at all times outside a classroom. The student must use facilities nearest the classroom from which he/she is excused. Students with medical problems necessitating frequent bathroom use should present a doctor’s note. Students will move through the hallways in an orderly fashion.
Home Access Center (HAC) The Home Access Center is an online browser-based student information system that allows parents/guardians and middle and high school students to view student information such as demographics, attendance data, class schedules, discipline incidents, student progress, and report card grades. In addition, the Home Access Center allows the student, parent, and counselor at the secondary level, to monitor progress on the student’s four-year high school plan. Each student will have a password to access his/her own data. Parents will receive a password for each of their students. Instructions for obtaining the passwords are posted on HAC page on the District’s website: www.roundrockisd.org.
Home Schooling When the District becomes aware that a student is being or will be home schooled, the Superintendent or designee may request in writing a letter of notification from the parents of their intention to home school using a curriculum designed to meet basic education goals of reading, spelling, grammar, mathematics, and a study of good citizenship. [Board Policy FEA (Local)]
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If the parents refuse to submit the letter of notification or if the District has evidence that the school-age child is not being home schooled within legal requirements, the District may investigate further and if warranted, shall pursue legal action to enforce the compulsory attendance law. [Board Policy FEA (Local)]
Identification Cards – Students Each student is provided an ID free of charge upon enrollment at an RRISD school. A fee is charged for replacement IDs. While on school property, students must have a current ID in their possession and furnish it to all district employees and any law enforcement officer upon request in accordance with Texas law. A campus may require students to display their student ID’s. Failure to produce or display a current student ID may result in disciplinary action. Failure to provide identification to a school official is against Texas law.
Locks and Lockers Every effort will be made to assign each student an individual locker and lock; however, in case of a shortage of lockers, some students may be assigned to share a locker and lock. Combinations for the lockers will be given to students when school begins. Lockers should be kept locked at all times. Students are not to share lockers or combinations with other students unless school authorized personnel give students permission to share lockers. The school may require an annual deposit and/or fee for locks. Only school-furnished locks will be allowed on school lockers. Any problems with lockers, combinations, or other related concerns should be reported to the office. Students must not write on lockers, place stickers in or on lockers, or decorate the front of lockers except with permission from the administrator for special events. Students shall not place, keep, or maintain any article or material in lockers that is prohibited by District policy. Students are responsible for any prohibited items found in their locker. Students are responsible for damage to the locker and will be assessed fines. Any item found in a locker that is prohibited by District policy is subject to confiscation. All lockers and locks are the property of the Round Rock Independent School District and are loaned to students for use. Students may lose locker privileges. Authorized school personnel have access to lockers at any time.
Lost and Found Any student wishing to search through the lost and found box should check in with office personnel first. Any valuable items turned in are kept in the office. The school is not responsible for any lost/found items. All unclaimed items will be donated to a charity periodically throughout the year.
Office Business Hours Normal office hours at middle school are from 7:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and at High school from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Students going to the office should be courteous and polite when conducting business. Students are expected to conduct their business in a prompt, mature manner and leave once they have finished.
Parent Expectations, Involvement, Responsibilities, and Rights Parents are expected to be role models for students while on campus and at all school events. Parents must check in with the main office upon entering a building prior to visiting with a teacher or team. If a parent chooses to observe a classroom, a request to observe must be made at least 24 hours in advance.
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Education works best when there is a strong partnership between home and school, a partnership that thrives on communication. Parents are partners with teachers, administrators, and the Board and are encouraged to: 1. Put a high priority on education and commit to making the most of the educational opportunities the school provides for their child/children. 2. Attend Board meetings to learn more about district operations, including the procedure for addressing the Board when appropriate. 3. Review the information in the Student Handbook (including the attached Student Code of Conduct) with their student; and sign and return the acknowledgment form(s). Parents with questions are encouraged to contact the administrator. 4. Become familiar with all of their student’s school activities and with the academic programs offered in the District. Discuss with the counselor any questions, such as concerns about placement, assignment, or early graduation, and the options available to their child/children. Monitor their child’s academic progress and contact teachers as needed.
Permanent Records Permanent records compiled in high school include the student’s grades, test scores, courses taken, rank in class, and overall average. These records are important in decisions made by colleges, employers, and military officials. A student and his/her parents may review the student’s record by appointment. Information not considered part of the permanent record includes discipline referrals, tardies, and notes from home.
Pledge of Allegiance, Recitations, and a Minute of Silence Texas law requires the school to lead the students in the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas flag each day. Parents may submit a written request to the principal to excuse their child from reciting a pledge. You may request that your child be excused from recitation of a portion of the Declaration of Independence. State law requires students in social studies classes in grades 3-12 to recite a portion of the text of the Declaration of Independence during Celebrate Freedom Week unless: 1. You provide a written statement requesting that your child be excused, or 2. The district determines that your child has a conscientious objection to the recitation, or 3. You are a representative of a foreign government to whom the United States government extends diplomatic immunity [Policy EHBK (Legal).] A minute of silence will follow recitation of the pledges. The student may choose to reflect, pray, meditate, or engage in any other silent activity so long as the silent activity does not interfere with or disturb others.
Publications School Materials Publications prepared by and for the school may be posted or distributed, with the prior approval of the principal, sponsor, or teacher. Such items may include school posters, brochures, flyers, etc. All school publications are under the supervision of a teacher, sponsor, and the principal.
Non-School Materials from Students Students must obtain prior approval from the principal before posting, circulating, or distributing written materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, petitions, films, tapes, posters, or other visual or auditory materials that were not developed under the oversight of the school. To be
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considered, any non-school material must include the name of the sponsoring person or organization. The decision regarding approval will be made within five school days. A student may appeal a principal’s decision in accordance with policy FNG (Local). Any student who posts non-school material without prior approval from the principal will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. Materials displayed without the principal’s approval will be removed.
Non-school Materials from Others Written or printed materials, handbills, photographs, pictures, films, tapes or other visual or auditory materials not sponsored by the district or by a district-affiliated school-support organization will not be sold, circulated, distributed, or posted on any district premises by any district employee or by persons or groups not associated with the district, except as permitted by policies at GKDA. To be considered for distribution, any non-school materials must meet the limitations on content established in the policy, include the name of the sponsoring person or organization, and be submitted to the principal for prior review. The principal will approve or reject the materials within five school days of the time the materials are received. The requestor may appeal a rejection in accordance with the appropriate district complaint policy. [See polices at DGBA, FNG, or GF.] Prior review will not be required for: ● Distribution of materials by an attendee to other attendees of a school-sponsored meeting intended for adults and held after school hours. ● Distribution of materials by an attendee to other attendees of a community group meeting held after school hours in accordance with policy GKD (Local) or a noncurriculum related student group meeting held in accordance with FNAB (Local). ● Distribution for electioneering purposes during the time a school facility is being used as a polling place, in accordance with state law. All nonschool materials distributed under these circumstances must be removed from district property immediately following the event at which the materials are distributed.
Restitution The school is responsible for disciplinary action as a result of vandalism to any personal property located at school. It is the parent’s responsibility to seek monetary restitution for their student’s vandalized property either privately or through the appropriate law enforcement agency. If property belonging to an employee is vandalized, the employee may seek monetary restitution from the student or his/her family. If school property is vandalized, both disciplinary action and monetary restitution may be levied by school officials.
School Dances – Middle School At middle school, only students from the sponsoring school are allowed to attend. Middle schools have set standards for attending dances. See your campus for their specific rules and requirements. A parent/legal guardian permission form may be required in order for a student to attend dances.
School-Issued Property Students are responsible for all school-issued property, including, but not limited to, athletic equipment, music instruments, textbooks, printed music, uniforms, and calculators. In some cases, an equipment usage fee or cleaning fee is charged.
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Skateboards, Roller Blades, and Wheeled Footwear Scooters, skateboards, roller blades (includes shoes with skates built in) and roller skates will not be permitted on campus at any time. Parents/legal guardians may be required to pick up these items from the office. The school is not responsible for items left in the office.
Site-Based Advisory Committee Each campus must have a site-based advisory committee. The site-based advisory committee serves exclusively in an advisory role to assist the administrator in implementing planning processes and sitebased decision making in accordance with Board policy and administrative procedures. The committee shall be chaired by the principal/designee. [Policy BQB (Local)]. Guidelines for site-based advisory committees are available at each campus in the District.
Student Records The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), gives both parents, whether married, separated, or divorced, access to their under 18 years of age, children’s education records. A parent whose rights have been legally terminated will be denied access to the records if the school is given a copy of the court order terminating these rights. Unless prior arrangements are made, the school will mail all communications to the address provided at the time the student is registered. Student records are the property of the school and must be reviewed in the presence of a RRISD employee. A fee may be charged for copies of education records that are made for parents or students. The same fees may be charged to other parties who have written permission to access student or other school records. Standard size paper copies are ten cents per page. These charges do not automatically apply to every document requested. The original copy of the record or any document contained in the cumulative record shall not be removed from the school. The following is a summary of charges for copies of student and public information as adopted by the General Services Commission, Chapter 70.3 of the Texas Administrative Code: Services Rendered 1. Transcript 2. Birth Certificate Additional Services 3. Standard-size paper copy 4. Postage and shipping charge 5. Fax charge a. Local b. Long distance, same area code Different area code 6. Personnel charge 7. Other costs
Charge $3.00 $1.00
$.10 per page Actual cost $ .10 per page $ .50 per page $1.00 per page $15.00 per hour Actual Cost
Student Speakers The District provides students the opportunity to introduce the following school events: elementary morning announcements, secondary morning announcements, National Honor Society, ROTC banquets, and FFA banquets. Students are eligible to introduce these events if they are in the highest two grade levels of the school, volunteer, and are not in a disciplinary placement at the time of the speaking event.
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Substitute Teachers The school is fortunate to have capable people to help whenever regular teachers are ill or are attending conferences. A substitute teacher is an important visitor whose impressions of the school will be carried into the community. Students should be as polite, helpful, and considerate as they would be to any teacher of record. Substitute teachers operate with the authority of the teacher of record.
Teacher and Staff Professional Qualifications You may request information regarding the professional qualifications of your child’s teachers, including whether a teacher has met state qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction; whether the teacher has an emergency permit or other provisional status for which state requirements have been waived; and undergraduate and graduate degree majors, graduate certifications, and the field of study of the certification or degree. You also have the right to request information about the qualifications of any paraprofessional who may provide services to your child.
Telephones The school has a telephone system in the office and classrooms. The office and classroom phones will be made available to students only for emergency calls. Parents are invited to call the school any time they feel there is a need. Class will not be interrupted to deliver phone messages unless the message is from a parent and pertains to an emergency and/or is approved by an administrator.
Transfers – In-District and Classroom Assignments (FDB Regulation) To obtain an in-District transfer, an in-District transfer form must be completed by the parents. The form should be sent to the principal of the sending school, who will then be responsible for sending it to the principal of the receiving school. Both the sending and receiving principals will confer before a recommendation is made. The form will then be sent to the assistant superintendent for elementary/secondary education, who will notify the parents whether the transfer has been granted or denied. If a parent chooses to challenge the decision, the parent should complete and file a Transfer Appeal form and send it to the assistant superintendent for elementary/secondary education, who will determine whether to grant or deny the requested in-District transfer. Forms for transfers and appeals may be accessed at www.roundrockisd.org. If the appeal is denied, the parent may appeal further through policy FNG (LOCAL) beginning with Level Two. A copy of FNG (LOCAL) along with the appeal forms may be accessed at www.roundrockisd.org. In-District transfer forms will be available at each campus, in the District office, and online on the District’s Web site.
Guidelines for Consideration General guidelines for consideration of in-District transfer requests include: 1. Day care situations for elementary children. 2. Needs of employees’ children. 3. Students temporarily living outside that school’s attendance zone. 4. Completion of the last grade level at the student’s school (i.e. grade 5, 8, or 12). 5. Access to a specific program/academy offered at a campus other than the home campus.
Non-Partner School Consideration Academy transfers will be considered on case-by-case basis when a non-partnered school is geographically closer to the student’s permanent home address, as determined by Round Rock ISD personnel. The parents and students requesting a transfer must agree to abide by the school’s standards for academic progress, attendance, discipline, and parental cooperation. Transfers will be revoked if
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problems with attendance, academic effort, or behavior occur. A transfer will be revoked for an academy student if the student fails to enroll in or drops all academy classes. Beginning with the 2007–08 school year, siblings of high school students on an approved inDistrict transfer will not be automatically granted an in-District transfer. Each student will be required to meet the established criteria. Once a student attends a school on a transfer basis, the student may not return to the home campus during the school year for which the transfer was granted unless the transfer is revoked or both principals agree to an earlier return. Transfers are granted for one year only and must be reviewed each year in order to be continued. Special education students must satisfy the conditions under which transfers may be allowed pursuant to this regulation.
Timelines Transfer time lines will include but not be limited to the following: 1. February 1 – April 1 Current RRISD students may submit transfer requests. Transfers submitted by April 1 will be considered timely and processed by April 30. Transfers submitted after April 2 will be processed starting June 1. 2. June 1 – 30 Students new to RRISD for the 2014-2015 school year may submit transfer requests. All students who are new to the district must register at their home campus before submitting a transfer request.
IB Programme Student Transfers • • • • • •
Enrollment in or transfers to the IB Programme are subject to the following: Current students must apply for the IB Programme during the spring of their grade 8 year. Students in grade 9 or 10 enrolling for the first time in the District may enter the IB Programme at their home campus or submit a transfer request to their IB Programme partnered campus as appropriate. Transfers are granted for one year only and must be re-viewed each year in order to be continued. A transfer will be revoked for a student in the IB Programme if the student fails to comply with general transfer guidelines or fails to enroll in or drops IB Programme classes. Students who transfer for the IB programme will not lose a year of varsity eligibility as long as they stay in the IB programme.
Safety Transfers/Assignments As a parent, you may: ●
Request the transfer of your child to another classroom or campus if your child has been determined by the district to have been a victim of bullying as the term is defined by Education Code 37.0832. Transportation is not provided for a transfer to another campus.
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Consult with district administrators if your child has been determined by the district to have engaged in bullying and the board decides to transfer your child to another classroom or campus. Transportation is not provided for a transfer to another campus. [See Bullying, policy FDB (LOCAL) and policy FFI (LOCAL).]
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Request the transfer of your child to attend a safe public school in the district if your child attends school at a campus identified by TEA as persistently dangerous or if your child has been a victim of a violent criminal offense while at school or on school grounds. [See policy FDE.]
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Request the transfer of your child to another district campus if your child has been the victim of a sexual assault by another student assigned to the same campus, whether the assault occurred on or off campus, and that student has been convicted of or placed on deferred adjudication for that assault. If the victim does not wish to transfer, the district will transfer the assailant in accordance with policy FDE.
Transfers Within the District—UIL The legal residence of a student and his or her parent(s) or legal guardian establishes the high school in which the student is eligible for competition in school-sponsored athletic contests. The legal residence requires that the parent(s) or legal guardian actually live in the attendance area, receive mail at the residence, and plan to continue to live there. A high school student who transfers will be ineligible for varsity competition in UIL schoolsponsored athletics in the receiving high school for one year from the date of entry into the receiving school. A high school student who, with his or her parent(s) or legal guardian, moves to another high school attendance area within the District will be ineligible for varsity competition in UIL schoolsponsored athletics in the receiving high school for one year from the date of entry into the receiving school. If a student on an approved transfer, who has met the one-year waiting period in order to be eligible for varsity athletics, chooses to transfer again or to return to his or her home campus, the student will be ineligible to participate in varsity athletics for one year from the date of transfer. If the student’s transfer is revoked for academic, attendance, or behavioral purposes, he or she will lose UIL eligibility for varsity athletics for one calendar year from the date of transfer.
Transportation For In-District transfers, transportation will be the responsibility of the parent(s)/guardian(s).
Transfers – Out of District (FDA Local) Transfer Requests for Nonresident Students Nonresident students shall be permitted to attend District schools as outlined below. If a nonresident family has leased, purchased, or contracted to build a residence in the District, with the intent to move to the District within 60 days, the District shall allow the children to enroll. A resident student who becomes a nonresident during the course of the school year shall be permitted to continue in attendance for the remainder of the year provided that attendance, behavior, and academic expectations are met. A senior who has completed his or her junior year as a resident of the District and who has met the attendance, behavior, and academic expectations shall be permitted to enroll and to complete his or her senior year in the District. A nonresident student who attended the District on an out-of-district transfer as of May 31, 2007, may remain a student of the school attended until the student reaches the highest grade offered by that campus, provided the student maintains continuous enrollment.
Nonresident Employee A nonresident employee may enroll his or her child in District schools with no tuition charge, according to the following stipulations: 1. Annually, the District shall assign the student to the school of the employee’s choice based on space availability. In addition to serving those students who reside in the campus attendance zone, space availability is defined as accommodating additional students at a particular campus and grade level, without incurring additional costs in the
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form of personnel or portable facilities. Campuses with enrollment of 125 percent shall be closed. 2.
In the event of a lack of available space at the campus preferred by the employee, the District shall assign the student to a campus with available space nearest the preferred campus.
This policy shall be reviewed annually to ensure it is economically feasible to continue this practice.
Athletic Participation A high school student on an approved transfer who resides outside District boundaries shall be ineligible for varsity athletic competition for one year from the date of enrollment.
Revocation A transfer student shall be notified in the written transfer agreement that he or she must follow all rules and regulations of the District, including, but not limited to, District policies and regulations, the Student Code of Conduct, and academic and attendance requirements. The transfer student shall also be notified that failure to fulfill any of these responsibilities will result in the revocation of the transfer agreement. Written notification of any transfer revocation shall be sent to the school district of residence.
Tuition If the District charges tuition, the amount shall be set by the Board, within statutory limits. The decision regarding whether to charge tuition shall be made annually.
Waivers The Board may waive tuition for a student based on financial hardship upon written application by the student, parent, or guardian. [See FP]
Nonpayment The District may initiate withdrawal of students whose tuition payments are delinquent.
Appeals Any appeals shall be made in accordance with FNG (LOCAL) and GF (LOCAL), as appropriate.
Video/Audio Recording The school district is not required to obtain parent consent before making or authorize the making of a video/audio recording of a student incident if the video/audio recording is to be used for the following: 1. Purposes of safety, including the maintenance of order and discipline in common areas of the school or on school buses; 2. A purpose related to an extra-curricular activity. 3. A purpose related to regular classroom instruction; or 4. Media coverage of the school. (TEC 26.009) Video/audio equipment shall be used for safety and security purposes to monitor student behavior on buses and in common areas on district controlled property. Students and parents shall be notified regarding the use of video cameras on school buses and on campuses. Signs stating that persons, including students, may be videotaped shall be posted in Districtcontrolled buildings and on buses. Students may assume that equipment is always in use.
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A student found to be in violation of the District’s Student Code of Conduct based on an investigation using electronic media shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary and/or criminal consequences.
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SAFETY AND SECURITY Asbestos Per mandated federal regulations adopted under the authority of the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986 (AHERA), the RRISD has adopted an ongoing management plan to inspect buildings and respond appropriately. A copy of the plan is available on each campus, in the administration office. If parents have questions regarding the plan or the federally mandated program, they should contact the RRISD Environmental Department at (512) 464-5000.
Drills – Fire, Tornado, and Other Emergencies Students, teachers, and other district employees will participate in drills of emergency procedures. When the alarm is sounded, students should follow the direction of teachers quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner. Order rather than speed will be stressed. Instructions for vacating will be posted in each room, and students should familiarize themselves with these instructions.
Emergency Procedures In Case of Inclement Weather School Closing While Classes Not in Session In the event of bad weather or emergency conditions necessitating the closing of schools before or after the school day, the media will broadcast the information; parents and students should tune to local radio and television stations to receive this information. Local TV and radio stations will be notified by 6:30 a.m. The information will also be placed on the district’s Web site, www.roundrockisd.org, and sent out via E-News to all E-News subscribers when technology is available. An attempt will be made to send a recorded phone message to the emergency phone number provided by the parent/guardian to update emergency situation information and instructions. Since school personnel usually receive emergency closing information from the media and the district’s Web site at the same time as everyone else, parents and students should not call the schools, the District office, administrators, or teachers. Such calls tie up these telephones and hinder school personnel from receiving important closing information. During inclement weather conditions, parents may check the district website or call the RRISD Administration at (512) 464- 5000 to hear an updated message regarding school closings or delays. If the District must cancel school for a day, the first (in calendar year order) “bad weather day” designated on the RRISD School Year Calendar will become an instructional day. If the District must subsequently cancel school for another day, the second “bad weather day” designated on the calendar will also become an instructional day. If school is canceled for more than two days, the District will either add days at the end of the school year or follow directives from the Texas Education Agency.
School Closing While Classes in Session If schools are closed during emergency situations while students are at school, the announcement of the closing will be made to the media as quickly as possible; instructions will be provided as to what arrangements parents should make to pick up their students or provide for their students’ security when buses reach home. The information will also be placed on the district’s Web site, www.roundrockisd.org, and sent out via E-News to all E-News subscribers when technology is available. An attempt will be made to send a recorded phone message to the
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emergency phone number provided by the parent/guardian to update emergency situation information and instructions.
In Case of Evacuation 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Sound alarm. Students will be moved to designated evacuation areas. Alarm monitoring company will notify emergency services. The administrator or office personnel will the RRISD district office. All students and school personnel will remain outside the building. The all-clear signal will sound when appropriate.
In Case of Tornado/Severe Weather 1. Sound alarm – Administrator or designee announces severe weather alarm over the school public address system or through another appropriate method established by the school. 2. Students will be moved to zones designated as safer. 3. Students will sit facing the interior wall. When danger is imminent, they will assume a protective posture, kneeling with head down to protect the back of the head and neck. 4. Students will not leave the area until instructed to move. 5. All students in portable buildings will be sheltered in the main building. 6. The all-clear signal will sound when appropriate.
In Case of Lockdown Situation 1. Sound alarm – Administrator or designee will announce lock-down situation over the public address system or through another appropriate method established by the school. 2. Students will be moved to classrooms and other secured areas. 3. Exterior and interior doors will be locked. 4. Non emergency personnel will not be allowed in or out of the building until the allclear signal is given.
In Case of Reverse Evacuation 1. Students who are outside will be moved into a building. 2. Lock-down procedures will be followed until emergency responders determine conditions are safe to resume normal operations.
Gun Free Zone Texas Penal Code Sec. 46.03. PLACES WEAPONS PROHIBITED “a person commits an offense if the person intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly possesses or goes with a firearm, illegal knife, club, or prohibited weapon listed in Section 46.05(a): (1) on the physical premises of a school or educational institution, any grounds or building on which an activity sponsored by a school or educational institution is being conducted, or a passenger transportation vehicle of a school or educational institution, whether the school or educational institution is public or private, unless pursuant to written regulations or written authorization of the institution;” Texas Penal Code Sec. 30.07. TRESPASS BY LICENSE HOLDER WITH AN OPENLY CARRIED HANDGUN per HB 910. "Pursuant to Section 30.07, Penal Code (trespass by license holder with an openly carried handgun), a person licensed under Subchapter H, Chapter 411, Government Code (handgun licensing law), may not enter this property with a handgun that is carried openly."
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General Safety Student safety on campus or at school-related events is a high priority of the District. With safety in mind, the District has implemented safety procedures. However, the District can address only part of the challenge; the essential remaining part is the cooperation of students, including: 1. Avoiding conduct that is likely to put the student or other students at risk. 2. Following the Student Code of Conduct and any additional rules for behavior and safety set by the administrator or teachers. 3. Remaining alert to and promptly reporting safety hazards, such as intruders on campus. 4. Knowing emergency evacuation routes and signals. 5. Following immediately the instructions of teachers, bus drivers, and other district employees overseeing the welfare of students. Parents can assist by keeping emergency care information up to date (name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, allergies to medications, etc.) and by teaching their children safety rules. Please contact the school health care worker to update any information. Having current information will be of critical importance should an accident or injury occur that requires medical attention. Should it become necessary to call EMS, the expense will be incurred by the parent, guardian or managing conservator.
Mold in Buildings The District addresses and prevents mold in our facilities by controlling relative humidity in the building and by eliminating sources of water intrusion. Water leaks, roofing problems and mechanical breakdowns are handled with a high priority. Campus personnel are trained to respond to all water intrusion or mechanical problems to control and limit exposures, and all maintenance actions are coordinated with the campus administrator. When appropriate, an outside consulting firm specializing in Indoor Air Quality is contracted by the Environmental Department to investigate air quality concerns and to recommend possible solutions. The campus is informed of the recommended actions (if any) and a timeline for corrective action is established. The report is then made available in the campus office. All mold is removed either by in-house or contracted services, with the type of mold found dictating how it is removed. Some molds are very common to the environment (and harmless to people) while other types are more toxic and must be dealt with accordingly. In every case, the District uses trained professionals to abate and/or remove mold.
Pest Management Plan The district is required to follow integrated pest management (IPM) procedures to control pests on school grounds. Although the district strives to use the safest and most effective methods to manage pests, including a variety of non-chemical control measures, pesticide use is sometimes necessary to maintain adequate pest control and ensure a safe, pest-free school environment. All pesticides used are registered for their intended use by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and are applied only by certified pesticide applicators. Except in an emergency, signs will be posted 48 hours before indoor application. All outdoor applications will be posted at the time of treatment, and signs will remain until it is safe to enter the area. Parents who have further questions or who want to be notified prior to pesticide application inside their child’s school assignment area may contact the IPM Coordinator for further information at (512) 464-8340.
Visitors & Volunteers For safety and security purposes, all guests on campus must wear a badge. RRISD uses the V-Soft Raptor visitor management system (commonly called Raptor) to produce Visitor and Volunteer badges.
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Before producing a badge, Raptor electronically scans all guests against registered sexual offender databases. The goal of this system is to better control access to all RRISD schools; thus providing enhanced protection for our students and staff.
Visitors All visitors should be prepared to present photo identification when visiting a school for the first time, and check in and out using Raptor each subsequent time they visit the campus. Parents are always welcome; however we request that they make an appointment to see a teacher, administrator, or to visit a classroom. Such visits shall not be permitted if their duration or frequency interferes with the delivery of instruction or disrupts the normal school environment. Due to supervision and safety concerns during school hours, please do not bring students’ siblings or other young children when visiting the classrooms, on field trips, class parties or other school functions unless specifically invited, or without prior approval. Students are not allowed to bring unauthorized visitors to school.
Volunteers As an added measure to improve student safety, RRISD requires any person wishing to volunteer agree to a name-based Criminal History Check each school year in addition to the security check by Raptor. If you regularly volunteer and your efforts meet any of the following criteria, please complete the online application at: https://roundrockisd.org/departments/community-partnerships/volunteer-application/ ● ● ● ●
You plan to chaperone any events or participate in WatchDOGS. You are a Parent or non-Parent volunteer and may be unaccompanied at any time by an RRISD employee. (i.e. Mentors, WatchDOGS, classroom, cafeteria, library and field-day volunteers, dance and field trip chaperones, etc.) You are not a parent, grandparent or guardian of a student enrolled on the campus where you will be volunteering. An RRISD Administrator requests you complete a volunteer application.
Any questions regarding the volunteer program or volunteer requirements should be directed to the Community Partnerships Department at (512) 464-5049.
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SERVICES Food Services RRISD serves nutritious meals each school day in accordance with the Texas Department of Agriculture and the United States Department of Agriculture. Students may purchase breakfast, lunches, and a la carte snacks at prices that are set by the Board of Trustees. The District participates in the National School Lunch Program and offers free and reduced-priced meals at both breakfast and lunch, based on the income level of the household. A student’s prior year status will remain with them for a temporary period of 30 days in to the next school year. Once a new application is submitted, the food service is given ten days to process the application. If the student has a full price status, the student will be responsible for meal payment until the application has been processed. All students will receive a Free/Reduced Application on the first day of school or may fill out an application online at any time at www.schoollunchapp.com. If you have any questions or need help in completing the application form, please contact the Application Processor at (512)464-8382 or come by the Food Service office at 16255 Great Oaks Dr., Suite 100, Round Rock, TX 78681. RRISD also has a charging policy. If a student does not have lunch money available, up to $10 may be charged. Should unpaid charges accumulate past the $10, the students entrée will be replaced with a cheese sandwich at no charge as long as the student takes a fruit or vegetable. Students may not charge a la carte or snack items if they do not have funds on their account. Notes will be sent home when a student reaches a low balance or negative balance. All parents are encouraged to use MySchoolBucks at www.myschoolbucks.com to set up an email reminder and monitor students purchases free of charge. The online service may also be utilized to add funds or set up automatic deposits to a student’s account for a small fee. Cash, check, or money order may be sent to the campus cafeteria to be placed on the student’s account. All charges should be paid before the end of the school year.
A La Carte Items: Round Rock ISD offers snacks that may be purchased in addition to the student’s meal. The snack menu may be found on the district website. All snacks abide by the USDA Standards for All Foods Sold in Schools(Smart Snacks) and along with state and local policies. Parents may monitor student’s al a carte purchases through use of the MySchoolBucks at www.myschoolbucks.com online meal payment system. Parents may put limits on their students account for snack purchases by contacting their student’s cafeteria manager. Outside Foods in Cafeteria: Parents/guardians may provide food for his/her student during lunch periods but are not permitted to provide food for any other students. Parents must adhere to campus policies for delivery of food to their student. Refunds: If a student leaves the district, refunds of meal account funds or transfers between sibling accounts may be requested by e-mailing
[email protected]. Please include the student name, ID number, parent/guardian name, and address. Please allow 6 weeks to process the refund. Refunds less than $5 can be made in the school cafeteria.
Counseling Services The Round Rock Counseling Services program is based on TEA’s Comprehensive Guidance Program for Texas Public Schools, the ASCA (American School Counselor Association) National Model, and the
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Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills. The Counseling and Guidance Plan design is to encourage optimum development of each student in the areas of academic, career, and personal/social development. The developmental guidance program is provided to all students and includes four components: 1. Guidance curriculum in the areas of self-knowledge and acceptance, interpersonal and communication skills/appreciation of diversity, responsible behavior/personal safety, conflict resolution, decision making/problem solving, motivation to achieve, and goal setting/career planning; 2. Responsive services for the immediate needs of students, usually through individual or group counseling; 3. Individual planning in the development of academic and career plans; and 4. System support for program management and parent/community support activities.
Academic Planning Students and their parents are encouraged to talk with a school counselor, teacher, or principal to learn more about course offerings, graduation requirements, and early graduation procedures. Each spring students in grades 5 through 12 are provided information on anticipated course offerings for the next school year and other information that will help them make the most of academic and CTE (Career and Technology Education) opportunities. To plan for the future, each student should work closely with the counselor in order to enroll in the courses that best prepare him or her for post-secondary opportunities. Each student in high school has an annual individual conference with the counselor to review progress towards the student’s goals. The counselor can also provide information about entrance exams and application deadlines, as well as information about automatic admission to state colleges and universities, financial aid, housing, and scholarships. Parents are invited to this meeting and are strongly urged to attend.
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) RRISD counselors provide social-emotional learning (SEL) guidance for all K-12 students. The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (www.casel.org) identifies five SEL competency clusters: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. At the elementary level, counselors regularly conduct classroom guidance sessions that instruct students in these areas. At the secondary level, these skills are reinforced in a variety of ways through practical applications in showing respect for self and others, getting along with peers, determining personal career goals, planning for post-secondary opportunities, and more.
Personal Counseling The school counselor is available to assist students with a wide range of personal concerns, including such areas as social adjustment, family concerns, emotional issues, and substance abuse. The counselor may also make available information about community resources to address these concerns. A parent who wishes to meet with the counselor may call their campus to make an appointment or make an appointment in person at the school counseling office. Appointments are not needed in emergency situations. As needed, the counselor may provide the parent with available resources in the community. The Counseling Services Program is staffed by certified school counselors or social workers at each campus. Questions regarding the specific program on your child’s campus should be referred to the school counselor or the campus administrator. Questions regarding the overall program may be referred to District Counseling Services staff.
Health Services It is requested that parents notify the campus nurse if a student is diagnosed with a communicable disease. A note is required from a parent or health care worker (physician, local health authority, advanced practice nurse or physician’s assistant) for re-admission to school when a student is excluded from attendance for a communicable disease.
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Required Information Regarding Meningitis: There are two types of meningitis, bacterial and viral. Meningitis is an inflammation of the covering of the brain and spinal cord. Viral meningitis is the most common and the least serious type of meningitis. Bacterial meningitis is a serious bacterial infection with the potential for serious, long-term complications. It is an uncommon disease, but requires urgent treatment with antibiotics to prevent permanent damage or death. Someone with meningitis will become very ill. The illness may develop over one or two days, but it can also rapidly progress in a matter of hours. Not everyone with meningitis will have the same symptoms. Children (over one year old) and adults with meningitis may have a severe headache, high temperature, vomiting, sensitivity to bright lights, neck stiffness or joint pains, and drowsiness or confusion. In both children and adults, there may be a rash of tiny, redpurple spots. These can occur anywhere on the body. The diagnosis of bacterial meningitis is based on a combination of symptoms and laboratory results. Bacterial meningitis is serious. If it is diagnosed early and treated promptly, the majority of people make a complete recovery. In some cases it can be fatal or a person may be left with a permanent disability. Fortunately, none of the bacteria that cause meningitis are as contagious as diseases like the common cold or the flu, and they are not spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air where a person with meningitis has been. The germs live naturally in the back of our noses and throats, but they do not live for long outside the body. They are spread when people exchange saliva (such as by kissing, sharing drinking containers, or utensils). The germ does not cause meningitis in most people. Instead, most people become carriers of the germ for days, weeks or even months. Usually, the body’s immune system controls the bacteria and prevents meningitis or another serious illness from developing. Bacterial meningitis can be prevented by not sharing food, drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, or cigarettes and by limiting the number of people kissed. The meningococcal vaccine is required for all students grade 7-12 as well as all college students. The vaccine is safe and effective (85-90% of the time). It can cause mild side effects, such as redness and pain at the injection site lasting up to two days. Immunity develops within seven to ten days after the vaccine is given and lasts for up to five years. If you think you or a friend might have bacterial meningitis, seek prompt medical attention. For more information contact your campus nurse, family doctor, or the staff at your local or regional health department. These offices are excellent sources for information on all communicable diseases. Additional information may also be found at the web site for the Center for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov and the Texas Department of State Health Services: www.dshs.state.tx.us.
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Illness and Fever
Students with a temperature of 100˚ or above (orally) will be sent home. To prevent the spread of a contagious disease, ill students must be symptom free from vomiting, diarrhea, etc and fever free without the use of temperature reducing medications for 24 hours before returning to school.
Head Lice Head lice are one of the nuisances that parents of students occasionally find themselves dealing with. RRISD follows the Texas Department of State Health Services recommendations. Individual head checks are performed on an as needed basis. Mass screenings will not be conducted. Parents are encouraged to periodically check their student’s head for lice. If a student is found to have live lice while at school a parent or guardian will be contacted and the student will be sent home for treatment. For lice treatment recommendations and RRISD lice protocol, please contact your school nurse.
Emergency Care Should a students’ or adults’ condition warrant, the Emergency Medical System will be initiated. Every effort will be made to contact the parent or legal guardian in a timely manner to determine their preferences for treatment.
Emergency Medical Treatment If a student has a medical emergency at school or a school related activity, the school may have to rely on written parental consent to obtain emergency medical treatment if the parent/guardian cannot be reached. Each year parents/guardians are asked to complete an emergency care form that includes a place for parental consent for school officials to obtain medical treatment for the student, as permitted by law. Parents/guardians should keep emergency information up-todate with emergency numbers and pertinent medical information. Please contact the campus nurse to update any information that the nurse will need to know. Should it become necessary to call EMS, the expense will be incurred by the parent, guardian or managing conservator.
Food Allergies The district has developed and annually reviews a food allergy management plan, which addresses employee training, dealing with common food allergens, and specific strategies for dealing with students diagnosed with severe food allergies. When the district receives information that a student has a food allergy that puts the student at risk for anaphylaxis, individual care plans will be developed to assist the student in safely accessing the school environment. The district’s food allergy management plan can be accessed at www.roundrockisd.org.
Health Clinic Round Rock ISD is committed to providing quality health care for all of our students. Students who become ill or injured will be evaluated to determine further treatment. Parents should provide written notification to the campus Nurse or Health Assistant if their child has specific or chronic health problems. Parents should also provide a note from a physician if the student needs to use crutches or a wheel chair due to an injury. If a student becomes ill during the school day, s/he should ask the teacher for a pass and report immediately to the campus health clinic for evaluation. If it is necessary for the student to leave school, a parent or guardian will be contacted. The student must be signed out and escorted by parent/guardian or person designated by parent or guardian.
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Medication Procedures Prescription and over the counter medication may be administered at school if the following apply: 1.
Approved authorization forms are on file for medication to be administered.
2. Medication must be provided by the parent or guardian. No medication is provided by the school except for Benadryl and/or epinephrine in case of a possible anaphylactic reaction. 3. Medication must be kept in the school clinic and administered by the school nurse, health assistant or school employee. 4. No medication will be sent home with a student. Parents/Guardians must pick up all medications whether prescription or over-the-counter. 5. Over-the-counter medication must be in the original bottle or box with the label intact and non-expired. Dispensing directions regarding age, dose and frequency will be strictly adhered to. Request to alter the standard dosage or frequency on over-the-counter medication must be accompanied by a physician’s written note and signature. 6. Prescription medication must be in the original container and non-expired. All prescription medications must be properly labeled in a prescription bottle/box with the student’s name, medication name, and directions for dispensing the drug and written and signed by a physician licensed to practice in the United States. A physician’s signature is required for any dosage or medication change on prescription medication. All prescription medications will need a physician’s signature; this includes daily, as needed and short term meds. NO PRESCRIPTION DRUG WILL BE GIVEN WITHOUT A PARENT/GUARDIAN AND PHYSICIAN SIGNATURE. 7. Medications (controlled substances) will be counted by the school nurse or the health assistant upon arrival at school and documented as to the number of pills received. Medications must be delivered by the parents/guardians. 8. Medications prescribed or requested to be given three times a day or less will not be given at school unless a specific time of administration during school hours is prescribed by a physician. 9. A student may be allowed to self-administer inhaled asthma medication, an Epi-pen, or diabetes treatment ONLY if the following conditions have been complied with: a. Written permission from the physician allowing the student to self-medicate or treat b. The nurse has counseled the parent and the student on the school’s inability to monitor the student’s health condition during the school day while self-medicating or treating. c. The student complies with all campus safety policies. 10. No district employee will administer herbal substances, anabolic steroids or dietary supplements except as provided in RRISD Policy: FFAC (local). Herbal substances or dietary supplements may be administered as prescribed by a physician if it is required by the IEP or Section 504 plan of a student with a disability. Medication must be provided by student’s parent or guardian. Reliable information must be given by the physician regarding the safe use of the product including side effects, toxicity, drug interactions and adverse effects.
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***In accordance with the Nurse Practice Act; Texas Administrative Code, Section 217.11, the Registered Nurse and the Licensed Vocational Nurse have the responsibility and authority to refuse to administer medications that, in the nurse’s judgment, are contra-indicated for administration to the student.***
State Mandated Health Screenings Schools are required to screen for the following: 1. Vision and Hearing – All four year olds, all students new to Texas schools, and K, 1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th grades 2. Spinal – 6th and 9th grades, as well as any 7th or 8th grades new to Texas schools 3. Acanthosis Nigricans – 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 7th grades, as well as any 1st-7th grades new to Texas schools If a parent does not want their child screened at school, he/she must notify the campus nurse in writing prior to the screening procedure. It is necessary to provide the campus nurse with an affidavit stating the objections to the screening and a physician’s verification that the child has been evaluated for and is receiving treatment, if needed.
Immunizations Many diseases are preventable by vaccine. Schools are required to have an immunization record on file for each child enrolled to ensure that each child has received their age-appropriate immunizations. State law allows medical or conscientious objection exemptions in lieu of immunizations. The proper forms must be kept at the campus. See Immunization and Exemption requirements at http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/immunize/default.shtm Note: This reference guide is subject to change depending on immunization requirement changes made by the Department of State and Health Services after the revision date. Documentation Since many types of personal immunization records are in use, any document will be acceptable provided a physician or public health personnel has validated it. The month, day, and year that the vaccination was received must be recorded on all school immunization records created or updated after September 1, 1991.
Exemptions Conscientious exemptions can be requested on-line at: https://webds.dshs.state.tx.us/immco/affidavit.shtm Exemptions can also be requested by mail at the following address: Immunization Branch Department of State Health Services Immunization Branch (MC 1946) P.O. Box 149347 Austin, TX 78714-9347 Conscientious exemptions will be valid for only two years. These students will be excluded from school in times of emergency or epidemics declared by the commissioner of public health. The original exemption affidavit must be completed and submitted to the school nurse in order to be in compliance.
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Medical exemptions must be written by a DO or MD who is properly licensed and in good standing in any state in the United States who has examined the student.. In the statement it must state that the required vaccine is medically contraindicated or poses a significant risk to the well being of the child or any member of the child’s household. Unless it is written in the statement that a lifelong condition exists, the exemption is valid for only one year, from the date signed by the physician, not the date the school receives it.
Provisional Enrollment All immunizations should be completed by the first date of attendance. The law requires that students be fully vaccinated against the specified diseases or provide a medical or conscientious exemption. A student may be enrolled provisionally if the student has an immunization record that indicates the student has received at least one dose of each specified age-appropriate vaccine required by this rule. To remain enrolled, the student must complete the required subsequent doses in each vaccine series on schedule and as rapidly as is medically feasible and provide acceptable evidence of vaccination to the school. A school nurse or school administrator shall review the immunization status of a provisionally enrolled student every 30 days to ensure continued compliance in completing the required doses of vaccination. If, at the end of the 30-day period, a student has not received a subsequent dose of vaccine, the student is not in compliance and the school shall exclude the student from school attendance until the required dose is administered. Students whose parents/guardians are military will be allowed 30 days to comply with immunization requirements. Homeless students and those coming from another Texas school will also be allowed 30 days to comply. All others must be in compliance on the first day of attendance.
School Health Advisory Council During the preceding school year, the District’s School Health Advisory Council held five meetings. For additional information regarding the District’s School Health Advisory Council, contact the Athletics/Physical Education department at (512)464-5480. The duties of the SHAC range from recommending curriculum to developing strategies for integrating curriculum into a coordinated school health program encompassing school health services, counseling services, a safe and healthy school environment, recess recommendations, and employee wellness. See policies at BDF and EHAA.
Learning Support Services The District provides learning support services for students who are gifted and talented, bilingual and students in the English as a Second Language (ESL) Program, students with dyslexia, and students in need of additional academic support, and for those with disabilities. These services shall modify the method of instruction, pacing, or materials, as appropriate, to provide full opportunity for learning the prescribed curriculum. A student or parent with questions about these services should contact the teacher, counselor, or administrator who can answer questions about eligibility requirements and programs and services offered in the District or by other organizations.
Dyslexia Students identified as having characteristics of dyslexia and who meet Round Rock ISD’s criteria for dyslexia, are eligible for services at their home campus. These services will be provided by an interventionist trained in dyslexia or related disorders, utilizing an instructional program targeted to meet the student’s needs.
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English as a Second Language (ESL) Upon the recommendation of the Language Proficiency Assessment Committee (LPAC), students may be placed in English as a Second Language (ESL) program. The LPAC committee will recommend language supports related to language instruction, local assessments and state mandated assessments. Eligible students will be served at their respective campus. Core content courses are supported with sheltered instruction strategies targeted to increase the student’s English language proficiency.
Families in Transition Program The Families in Transition Program (FiT) supports the McKinney-Vento Act. This act protects the rights of homeless children and youth to receive a free and appropriate public education. Homeless children and youth are defined as individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. Eligible students may qualify for help with enrollment, free meals, and transportation to and from their school of origin. Unaccompanied youth are also protected by this right and include youth in homeless situations who are not in physical custody of a parent or guardian. This right is protected even though the student may lack having a permanent address, does not live with a parent or guardian, have a previous address in another town/state or does not have school records. A student or parent with questions regarding homelessness should contact the District’s Homeless Liaison at (512) 464-5185 or their campus administrator.
Migrant Education The term “migratory child” means a child who is, or whose parents obtain temporary or seasonal employment in agricultural or related fields. The District assures that high-quality and comprehensive educational programs for migratory children exist to help reduce the educational disruptions and other problems that result from repeated moves. The programs ensure that migratory children are provided appropriate educational services (including supportive services) that address their special needs in a coordinated and efficient manner so that they successfully meet the same challenging State academic achievement standards that all children are expected to meet. For more information, please contact your campus migrant contact or call the District’s Migrant Coordinator at (512) 464-5024.
Parent/Family Resource Centers The district’s Family Resource Center is located in portable 020 at 1311 Round Rock Avenue, Round Rock, Texas, next to the Central Administration building. This center is staffed by a Parent Liaison and offers a wide variety of parent engagement and learning opportunities. For additional information, please contact the district’s Parent Liaison at 512-464-5983. Parent Resource Centers are located at every Title I campus. The centers provide an environment that fosters a strong commitment to parent and family involvement while establishing a partnership with the entire campus community. The centers are staffed with a part time Parent Community Specialist that collaborates with all stakeholders to enhance positive school relationships and increase parental involvement. At the centers, parents may acquire access to educational resources, obtain schedules regarding campus programs or district events and have opportunities to attend information sessions sponsored by campus, district or community organizations. Additional information is located on your campus website or can be obtained by contacting the District’s Coordinator of Title I Parent Programs at (512) 428-7984.
S.T.A.R. Center The Student Testing and Receiving Center is an assessment office for immigrant students new to the country and to the school district. The center is located at 1311 Round Rock Avenue, Round Rock, Texas 78681, Portable 097. Families of students are referred to the center through their
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home schools, other families and/or community organizations. For more information please call (512) 464-5123.
Title I Parent Involvement Policy The faculty, parents, staff, and community members of Round Rock ISD developed and agreed upon the following written policy for parental involvement during the annual Parent Advisory Committee meeting. During the first six weeks of school, all Title I campuses will: ● Distribute this policy to parents in a format and language that parents can understand. ● Establish effective, understandable communication with parents regarding their child’s academic progress, school curriculum, and assessment tools. ● Hold an annual meeting with parents to discuss Title I school-wide programs. Throughout the school year, opportunities will be provided to parents for: ●
Involvement at the campus and district level including volunteering and training designed to provide parents with tools to be partners in their children’s academic success.
●
Participation on parent advisory and site-based committees.
Annually, the district will solicit the input of parents regarding the effectiveness and/or barriers of parental involvement through a survey distributed on Title I campuses. The results will be used in the annual parental involvement policy review and the development/review of the District Improvement Plan.
Teen Parenting Program The Teen Parenting Program is a comprehensive program to help the pregnant and/or parenting student successfully graduate from high school and pursue post-secondary opportunities. It consists of five components: social work services, health services, child care, homebound instruction, and parenting education. Supplemental academic support services are available to assist the student to meet the same challenging State academic content and student academic achievement standards that other students are expected to meet. For more information, you may contact the student’s school campus.
Library Services RRISD librarians work with teachers and students to problem-solve, to research curricular topics, to document resources, to respect intellectual ownership of copyrighted materials, and to learn the acceptable use of electronic resources (Internet). Libraries have technology-rich environments that facilitate instruction. Library programs promote reading with sustained silent reading, recommended reading lists, student book reviews, storyteller and author visits, and celebrations such as Teen Read Week and National Library Week. The RRISD Parent Internet Links page (https://roundrockisd.org/departments/library-services/parentinternet-links/) - lists useful resources for parents/guardians, including the American Library Association’s list of frequently challenged books.
RRISD libraries provide up-to-date materials in a welcoming setting. Students may search the District union catalog, e-Library, both at school and from home. This online catalog indexes all District library
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resources. Students may checkout a variety of resources and may request items from other District campuses. Parents/guardians may also borrow library materials. Parents/guardians have the right to determine reading, viewing, and listening materials for their own students. Parents/guardians who wish to monitor their students’ library reading materials may use e-Library and work with the campus librarian to address concerns, if any. Students who do not return items in a timely fashion will be subject to disciplinary action deemed appropriate by their campus administrator. Charges will be assessed for any lost or damaged library materials. Students have access to many electronic resources, including online subscription databases (Research Resources) and e-books that complement the curriculum. Encyclopedias, magazines, newspapers, almanacs, maps, primary source documents, news transcripts and other reference materials are included in these electronic resources. Home/remote access information is available from the campus library. This login information provides 24/7 access to RRISD virtual library resources. Check the campus web site for library hours or call the campus library. The Library Services Program maximizes student achievement and contributes to the development of a community of life-long learners by providing a real-world library experience that prepares students to enter the workforce and /or higher education.
Students with Disabilities Special Education Services The District has the responsibility of identifying, locating, and evaluating individuals with disabilities who are 0-21 years of age and who fall within the District’s jurisdiction. If you know or suspect your child has a disability, please contact the school’s counselor or the RRISD Special Education Department for information about special education services. Special education services are specially designed to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. These services are provided in a special education or general education setting with modifications, accommodations, special education support, supplementary aids, and other special arrangements. When appropriate, students receiving special education services: 1. Remain in the general education program with special education support, supplementary aids, or other special arrangements, if needed; 2. Are educated to the maximum extent appropriate with students who are not receiving special education services; 3. Are placed in an instructional arrangement as close as possible to the student’s home; 4. Are provided opportunities to participate in school activities on the same basis as students who are not receiving special education services; and 5. Are offered an opportunity for interaction on a regular basis with students who are not receiving special education services. Each student who receives special education services has an individual education plan (IEP) which is developed by the student’s Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) committee. A student receiving special education services is subject to the school’s Student Code of Conduct unless otherwise stated in the Individual Education Plan (IEP). If a student is receiving special education services at a campus outside his or her attendance zone, the parent or guardian may request that any other student residing in the household be
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transferred to the same campus, if the appropriate grade level for the transferring student is offered on that campus. [Policy FDB (Legal)] The Notice of Procedural Safeguards, Rights of Parents of Students with Disabilities can be obtained from the Special Education Director or at the TEA Special Education Website: http://www.tea.state.tx.us/special.ed/. For further information, please contact the RRISD Special Education Department at (512) 464-5140.
Providing Assistance to Students Who Have Learning Difficulties or Need Special Education Services If a child is experiencing learning difficulties, the parent may contact the person listed below to learn about the district’s overall general education referral or screening system for support services. This system links students to a variety of support options, including referral for a special education evaluation. Students having difficulty in the regular classroom should be considered for tutorial, compensatory, and other academic or behavior support services that are available to all students including a process based on Response to Intervention (RtI). The implementation of RtI has the potential to have a positive impact on the ability of districts to meet the needs of all struggling students. At any time, a parent is entitled to request an evaluation for special education services. Within 15 school days, the district must decide if the evaluation is needed. If the evaluation is needed, the parent will be notified and asked to provide informed written consent for the evaluation. The district must complete the evaluation and the report within 45 school days of the date the district receives the written consent. The district must give a copy of the evaluation report to the parent. If the district determines that the evaluation is not needed, the district will provide the parent with prior written notice that explains why the child will not be evaluated. This written notice will include a statement that informs the parents of their rights, if they disagree with the district. The district is required to give parents the Notice of Procedural Safeguards – Rights of Parents of Students with Disabilities. Additional information regarding the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) is available from the school district in a companion document A Guide to the Admission, Review, and Dismissal Process. The following websites provide information to those who are seeking information and resources specific to students with disabilities and their families: ● Texas Project First (information available in Spanish and English) ● Partners Resource Network The designated person to contact regarding options for a child experiencing learning difficulties or a referral for evaluation for special education services is: RRISD Contact Person: Executive Director of Special Education Services Phone Number: (512 )464-5140
Section 504 Services Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of a disability and assures that students with disabilities have educational opportunities equal to those provided to non-disabled students. Students are eligible if they have a physical or mental impairment, a record of a physical or mental impairment, or are regarded as having a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Major life activities include such functions as learning, self-care, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, working, and performing manual tasks. If a parent, teacher, or administrator suspects a student may be in need of Section 504 services, they should contact the campus Section 504 administrator for information regarding referral procedures for 504 services.
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Student Insurance The District is not responsible for medical costs associated with a student’s injury. School districts, by law, have governmental immunity against liability resulting from accidents within the confines of the school. Therefore, the school assumes no liability, either for the injury or the subsequent negotiations with any insurance company. The District does make available optional low-cost student accident insurance programs to assist parents in meeting medical expenses. A parent who desires coverage for his or her child will be responsible for paying the insurance premium and submitting any claims directly with the insurance carrier. At the start of each school year, each campus administration office will distribute student insurance letters with information on how parents can purchase voluntary student accident insurance. Groups of students that make one or more trips away from school are encouraged to have student insurance coverage. These groups include athletes (girls and boys), band, choir, forensics, orchestra, ROTC, FFA, FCCLA, and other groups or organizations that will make a trip away from the campus during the year. All students, regardless of whether or not they belong to a group, are encouraged to take advantage of this insurance coverage. For participation in athletics, proof of insurance or a waiver stating the parents will pay for all medical bills is required. The parent or guardian is responsible for all doctor or hospital bills above the insurance limit.
Talented and Gifted (TAG) Services TAG services are designed to meet the unique needs of each identified student by providing curriculum and instruction, which coordinates those needs with appropriate learning experiences. By providing a stimulating and challenging environment which assures interaction with intellectual peers, the services develop students’ skills, creativity, and intellectual abilities so that learning outcomes require high levels of cognition and production. Contact the campus TAG testing coordinator for specific information, including referral deadlines. Round Rock ISD students, K-12, will have the opportunity to be tested for Round Rock ISD gifted services in January. Students transferring to Round Rock ISD from another school district who have already been identified for gifted services will be tested for Round Rock ISD gifted services within 30 school days of enrollment in the District. Students entering Round Rock ISD after the January testing, who were not identified as gifted in their previous district, may be tested for Round Rock ISD gifted services in the summer.
Transportation General Information Students riding a bus should become familiar with the following bus rules, as safety is extremely important on a bus. While on a bus, students are directly supervised by the bus driver. Students who violate bus rules may be deprived of the privilege of riding the school bus. Students should be at the bus stop five minutes before the scheduled pick up time in a visible location. Buses will load at schools for seven minutes after the designated dismissal time. Once the buses have shut their loading doors to leave the school, students should not approach the buses due to the potential of buses striking students. Students who request to ride a bus different than their own, or to use a different bus stop must obtain a Bus Rider Permit from an administrator. A note signed by the parent or guardian requesting a change must be attached to the completed Bus Rider Permit and be pre-approved
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by an administrator. Permits must be given to the bus driver upon entering the bus. Buses scheduled as “full” may refuse to accept additional students even though a Bus Rider Permit has been issued.
Bus Rules For the safety of students, drivers and other persons, the following rules are to be enforced by the bus driver. Student riders are expected to obey these rules for their welfare.
Meeting the Bus ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪
Parents, guardians, or other adults are not permitted to enter or ride the bus with their student(s), except as an assigned sponsor of a campus field trip. Passengers must be on time and visible at the bus stop. It is recommended that students be at their bus stop five (5) minutes before pick-up time. Passengers must not stand on the traveled portion of the roadway while waiting for the bus. Passengers who must cross the roadway before entering or after leaving the school bus shall cross the roadway ten feet to the front of the bus and only at the direction of the bus driver. Passengers must not approach a moving bus until it stops. Once the bus has stopped, and the driver has signaled, passengers may walk toward the bus to board. Passengers must enter the bus carefully and in an orderly manner as instructed. Once on the bus, passengers must go directly to their seat and be seated properly so the bus may continue the route.
Safety ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪
Passengers shall remain seated in an orderly manner while the bus is in motion and until the bus comes to a complete stop. Passengers shall keep arms, legs, heads, and all personal effects inside the bus and out of the aisle. The driver is authorized to assign seats. Students must sit in their assigned seats at all times. Passengers shall not tamper with emergency equipment, or emergency exits. Emergency doors and exits will be used in the event of a declared emergency or evacuation drill. Observe the same conduct level as is expected in the classroom. Passengers shall not mark or deface the bus and/or its equipment. Any damage done to the bus is chargeable to the parent of the student responsible for the damage. Do not litter or damage the bus in any way. No student shall take or remove from another passenger personal effects of any kind. Passengers shall use appropriate language while on the bus and shall not engage in conversation or activities considered to be vulgar, abusive or demeaning. Profanity and obscene gestures are not allowed. Do not eat or drink on the bus except for water in a closed plastic bottle. Fighting, horseplay, and throwing objects are prohibited. All items prohibited at school are also prohibited on the bus. No school bus shall transport firearms, flammable materials, explosives, harmful drugs, chemicals, or other prohibited weapons (replica or look-alike weapons) or any other items that might endanger the life or health of the
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▪ ▪
▪
passengers. Glass containers that would cause injury to passengers if broken should be enclosed in another protective container. No animals (living or dead) are allowed on the bus, with the exception of service animals allowed by law. Large, bulky items that cannot fit under the seat or in the lap of the student are not allowed on the bus. Arrangements must be made for the parent to transport these items. This includes large band instruments and school projects. Passengers shall wear classroom acceptable attire while on the bus.
Departing the Bus ▪ ▪ ▪
When getting off of the bus, students should move quickly but safely away from the unloading area. The emergency door at the rear of the bus is to be used in emergency situations only. It is not to be used for boarding or departing the bus. Students are allowed to board and depart the bus at designated bus stops ONLY!
Disciplinary Consequences Misbehavior on the school bus will result in the student being referred to his/her administrator for appropriate disciplinary measures, which may include being deprived of the privilege of riding the school bus. In the event a video monitoring system is used on the bus, the film may be used as a basis for determining disciplinary action. When a student’s behavior poses a threat to the safety of themselves and the other students on the bus, the following is a recommended guide for disciplinary action steps to be taken: 1st Report 2nd Report 3rd Report 4th Report
Student will be given a warning by their Principal * Student may be removed from transportation for up to three (3) days. * Student will be removed from transportation for ten (10) days. * Student will be removed from transportation for a length of time up to the remainder of the semester. * 5th Report Student may be removed from transportation for the remainder of the school year. *
Severe Clause: If a bus safety incident is deemed severe enough, the progressive discipline steps may be bypassed and the student may be removed from transportation for a length of time as deemed appropriate by the school administrator. *Restitution for any damages incurred must be made before student may return to riding the bus.
Vending Machines The District has adopted policies and implemented procedures to comply with state and federal food service guidelines for restricting student access to vending machines. For more information regarding these policies and guidelines, please visit the Round Rock ISD Food Service Department website.
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APPENDIX
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Round Rock ISD UIL Eligibility Calendar 2017-2018 SEPTEMBER 29
END OF 6 WEEKS GRADING PERIOD
OCTOBER 6
ELIGIBILITY CHECK GAIN OR LOSE (GAIN BY CREDITS ONLY)
OCTOBER 20
IPR GRADE CHECK DATE
OCTOBER 27
ELIGIBILITY CHECK GAIN ONLY
NOVEMBER 10
END OF 6 WEEKS GRADING PERIOD
NOVEMBER 17
ELIGIBILITY CHECK GAIN OR LOSE
DECEMBER 8
IPR GRADE CHECK DATE
DECEMBER 15
ELIGIBILITY CHECK GAIN ONLY
DECEMBER 22
END OF 6 WEEKS GRADING PERIOD
JANUARY 16
ELIGIBILITY CHECK GAIN OR LOSE
JANUARY 30
IPR GRADE CHECK DATE
FEBRUARY 6
ELIGIBILITY CHECK GAIN ONLY
FEBRUARY 23
END OF 6 WEEKS GRADING PERIOD
MARCH 2
ELIGIBILITY CHECK GAIN OR LOSE
MARCH 29
ELIGIBILITY CHECK GAIN ONLY
APRIL 13
END OF 6 WEEKS GRADING PERIOD
APRIL 20
ELIGIBILITY CHECK GAIN OR LOSE
MAY 4
IPR GRADE CHECK DATE
MAY 11
ELIGIBILITY CHECK GAIN ONLY
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Graduation Requirement for Students Entering 9th Grade Before Fall of 2014 SUBJECT AREAS
RRISD RECOMMENDED HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM
English /Language Arts
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Physical Education
English I, II, III, & IV are required for all plans except: English I & II for Speakers of other Languages may be substituted for English I & II only for immigrant students with limited English proficiency (LEP). 4 credits including: Algebra I & II, Geometry, and one additional advanced math course required. (See list below of approved additional math courses.) Note: Mathematical Models with Applications is an approved fourth math course only if it is taken before Algebra II. High School Program: 3 credits including: Algebra I, Geometry and a third math course. 4 credits: 1 credit from the following area: Biology, Pre-AP Biology, AP Biology, or IB Biology. 2 credits from the following areas (not more than one credit may be chosen from each of the areas to satisfy this requirement): (a) Integrated Physics & Chemistry (IPC) (b) Chemistry, PreAP Chemistry, AP Chemistry, or IB Chemistry (c) Physics, Principles of Technology, Pre-AP Physics, AP Physics . 1 credit from the following: IB Chemistry, AP Chemistry, IB Physics, AP Physics B, AP Physics C, IB Biology, AP Biology, Astronomy, Aquatic Science, Environmental Systems, AP Environmental Science, IB Environmental Systems, Earth and Space Science, Scientific Research & Design, Anatomy & Physiology of Human Systems, Medical Microbiology & Pathophysiology, Principles of Technology I, Engineering Design and Problem Solving, approved concurrent enrollment in approved science college courses. All plans require completion of World Geography, World History, United States History, United States Government, and Economics. Students are required to earn one and onehalf credit for graduation including one-half credit in Foundations of Personal Fitness. Dance I can substitute for 1.0 PE credit. All plans require either Health Education or Principles of Health Science
Credit
4
RRISD MAGNA CUM LAUDE DAP
Credit
English I, II, III, & IV are required for all plans except: English I & II for Speakers of other Languages may be substituted for English I & II only for immigrant students with limited English proficiency (LEP). 4 credits including: Algebra I & II, Geometry, and one additional advanced math course required. (See list below of approved additional math courses.)
4
4
4 credits: 1 credit from the following: Biology, Pre-AP Biology, AP Biology or IB Biology. 2 credits from the following areas (not more than one credit may be chosen from each of the areas to satisfy this requirement): (a) Chemistry, Pre-AP Chemistry, AP Chemistry, or IB Chemistry (b) Physics, PreAP Physics, AP Physics. 1 credit from the following: IB Chemistry, AP Chemistry, IB Physics, AP Physics B, AP Physics C, IB Biology, AP Biology, Astronomy, Aquatic Science, Environmental Systems, AP Environmental Science, IB Environmental Systems, Earth and Space Science, Scientific Research & Design, Anatomy & Physiology of Human Systems, Engineering Design and Problem Solving, approved concurrent enrollment in approved science college courses.
4
All plans require completion of World Geography, World History, United States History, United States Government, and Economics. Students are required to earn one and one-half credit for graduation including one-half credit in Foundations of Personal Fitness. Dance I can substitute for 1.0 PE credit All plans require either Health Education or Principals of Health Science
4
1.5
.5
RRISD SUMMA CUM LAUDE PROGRAM DAP
Credit
English I, II, III, & IV are required for all plans except: English I & II for Speakers of other Languages may be substituted for English I & II only for immigrant students with limited English proficiency (LEP). 5 credits including: Algebra I & II, Geometry, and two additional advanced math course required. (See list below of approved additional math courses.)
4
4
5 credits: 1 credit from the following: Biology, Pre-AP Biology, AP Biology or IB Biology. 2 credits from the following areas (not more than one credit may be chosen from each of the areas to satisfy this requirement): (a) Chemistry, Pre-AP Chemistry, AP Chemistry, or IB Chemistry (b) Physics, Pre-AP Physics, AP Physics. 2 credits from the following: IB Chemistry, AP Chemistry, IB Physics, AP Physics B, AP Physics C, IB Biology, AP Biology, Astronomy, Aquatic Science, Environmental Systems, AP Environmental Science, IB Environmental Systems, Earth and Space Science, Scientific Research & Design, Anatomy & Physiology of Human Systems, Engineering Design and Problem Solving, approved concurrent enrollment in approved science college courses.
5
4
All plans require completion of World Geography, World History, United States History, United States Government, and Economics. Students are required to earn one and one-half credit for graduation including one-half credit in Foundations of Personal Fitness. Dance I can substitute for 1.0 PE credit All plans require either Health Education or Principals of Health Science.
4
4
1.5
.5
5
1.5
.5
Health
Technology Application
Languages other than English
Fine Arts
Computer science I/II, Printing and Imaging Technology, Business Information Management, Web Technologies, Animation, Introduction to Engineering Design, Digital and Interactive Media, Graphic Design and Illustration, Desktop Publishing The credits must be in the same language.
1
Computer science I/II, Printing and Imaging Technology, Business Information Management, Web Technologies, Animation, Introduction to Engineering Design, Digital and Interactive Media, Graphic Design and Illustration, Desktop Publishing
1
Computer science I/II, Printing and Imaging Technology, Business Information Management, Web Technologies, Animation, Introduction to Engineering Design, Digital and Interactive Media, Graphic Design and Illustration, Desktop Publishing
1
2
The credits must be in the same language.
3
The credits must be in the same language.
3
Most courses listed in the Fine Arts section of this catalog can be used. See each course description for clarification. All plans require Communication Applications.
1
Most courses listed in the Fine Arts section of this catalog can be used. See each course description for clarification. All plans require Communication Applications.
1
Most courses listed in the Fine Arts section of this catalog can be used. See each course description for clarification. All plans require Communication Applications.
1
.5
.5
.5
Speech (Com. Apps.) Students are expected to select rigorous electives that provide advanced training in selected educational/career fields as reflected on the 4-year plan in effect at the time of the course selection.
Electives
3.5
26
Total Credits
Students are expected to select rigorous electives that provide advanced training in selected educational/career fields as reflected on the 4-year plan in effect at the time of the course selection. PLUS ADVANCED MEASURES
4.5
28
6.5
Students are expected to select rigorous electives that provide advanced training in selected educational/career fields as reflected on the 4-year plan in effect at the time of the course selection. PLUS ADVANCED MEASURES
32
Note: Contact your campus school counselor for more information on the Minimum High School Plan.
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ROUND ROCK ISD FOUNDATION HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM (FHSP) GRADUATION PLANS
Foundation Plan
English I, II, III, & an Advanced English Course (4 credits) Note: RRISD strongly recommends for ELA IV: English IV, Dual Credit English IV, AP English Literature, or College Prep English (TSI). Algebra I, Geometry, & an Advanced Math Course (3 credits) Note: RRISD recommends for Advanced Math: Algebra II or Math Models. Biology, IPC or an Advanced Science Course, & an Advanced Science Course (3 credits) World Geography and/or World History, and RRISD approved Social Studies course, U.S. History, U.S. Government (.5 ) & Economics (.5) (4 credits) Languages Other Than English (LOTE) (2 credits in the same language, computer programming language, or other allowable exceptions) Fine Arts (1 credit) Physical Education (1 credit) Electives (5 credits)
Foundation Course Requirements (See notes following for clarification of course selection options)
Endorsements Note: A student may earn an endorsement by successfully completing: ● Curriculum requirements for the endorsement, ● Four credits in mathematics, ● Four credits in science, and ● Two additional elective credits. Total Credits Required
(No Endorsement)
23
Foundation Plan w/ Endorsements
Distinguished Level of Achievement (DLA) Note: The DLA is required to qualify for automatic college admission under the Texas Top 10% provisions. RRISD strongly recommends the DLA.
English I, II, III, & an Advanced English Course (4 credits) Note: RRISD strongly recommends for ELA IV: English IV, Dual Credit English IV, AP English Literature, or College Prep English (TSI).
English I, II, III, & an Advanced English Course (4 credits) Note: RRISD strongly recommends for ELA IV: English IV, Dual Credit English IV, AP English Literature, or College Prep English (TSI).
Algebra I, Geometry, & two Advanced Math Courses (4 credits) Note: RRISD recommends for Advanced Math: Algebra II or Math Models. Biology, IPC or an Advanced Science Course, & two Advanced Science Courses (4 credits) World Geography and/or World History, and RRISD approved Social Studies course, U.S. History, U.S. Government (.5 credit), & Economics (.5 credit) (4 credits) Languages Other Than English (LOTE) (2 credits in the same language, computer programming language, or other allowable exceptions) Fine Arts (1 credit) Physical Education (1 credit) Electives (7 credits) Note: See detailed resources on requirements for each endorsement. ● STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math) ● Business & Industry ● Arts & Humanities ● Public Service ● Multidisciplinary
Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, & an additional Math Course (4 credits)
Biology, IPC or an Advanced Science Course, & two Advanced Science Courses (4 credits) World Geography and/or World History, and RRISD approved Social Studies course, U.S. History, U.S. Government (.5 credit), & Economics (.5 credit) (4 credits) Languages Other Than English (LOTE) (2 credits in the same language, computer programming language, or other allowable exceptions) Fine Arts (1 credit) Physical Education (1 credit) Electives (7 credits)
Note: See detailed resources on requirements for each endorsement. ● STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math) ● Business & Industry ● Arts & Humanities ● Public Service ● Multidisciplinary
27
27
Please refer to the Course Catalogue for more detailed information regarding graduation plans.
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Notification of Rights Under the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA) PPRA affords parents and students who are 18 or emancipated minors (“eligible students”) certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the right to: A. Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas(“protected information survey”) if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U.S. Department of Education (ED) — 1. Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; 2. Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family; 3. Sex behavior or attitudes; 4. Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior; 5. Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships; 6. Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers; 7. Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or 8. Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility and receipt of financial assistance. You will be able to inspect the survey or other instrument and any instructional materials used in connection with such a survey, analysis, or evaluation. B. Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of — 1. Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding; 2. Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings, or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and 3. Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others. Individual campuses will notify parents of approximate or specific dates of surveys or screenings pertaining to the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment. These rights transfer from the parents to a student who is 18 years old or an emancipated minor under state law. Parents who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with: Family Policy Compliance Office US Department of Education 400 Maryland Ave, SW Washington, DC 20202-8520
Education Code 25.095—Warning Notices (a) A school district or open-enrollment charter school shall notify a student’s parent in writing at the beginning of the school year that if the student is absent from school on 10 or more days or parts of days within a six-month period in the same school year or on three or more days or parts of days within a four-week period: (1) the student’s parent is subject to prosecution under Section 25.093; and (2) the student is subject to prosecution under Section 25.094 or to referral to a juvenile court in a county with a population of less than 100,000 for conduct that violates that section. (b) A school district shall notify a student’s parent if the student has been absent from school, without excuse under Section 25.087, on three days or parts of days within a four-week period. The notice must: (1) inform the parent that: (A) it is the parent’s duty to monitor the student’s school attendance and require the student to attend school; and (B) the parent is subject to prosecution under Section 25.093; and (2) request a conference between school officials and the parent to discuss the absences. (c) The fact that a parent did not receive a notice under Subsection (a) or (b) does not create a defense to prosecution under Section 25.093 or 25.094. (d) In this section, “parent” includes a person standing in parental relation.
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Notification of Rights under FERPA for Elementary and Secondary Schools The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records. These rights are: (1) The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the School receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the School principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The School official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. Copies of records are available, payable in advance, at a rate as published annually by the Texas Building and Procurement Commission. Parents may be denied copies of records after their children reach the age of 18 and are no longer dependent, or if they fail to follow proper procedure and pay the copying charge. (2) The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Parents or eligible students who wish to ask the School to amend a record should write the School principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the School decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the School will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing. (3) The right to privacy of personally identifiable information in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the School as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the School has outsourced services or functions it would otherwise use its own employees to perform (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee; or a parent, student, or other volunteer assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the School discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll, or is already enrolled if the disclosure is for purposes of the student’s enrollment or transfer. (4) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the School to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are: Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202-8520 [NOTE: In addition, a school may want to include its directory information public notice, as required by § 99.37 of the regulations, with its annual notification of rights under FERPA.]
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Information Regarding Permissions Form (Please print clearly in blue or black ink.)
Información Acerca del Formulario de Permisos (Por favor escriba claramente con tinta azul o negra.)
1. Directory Information/Publicity Release: Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and Publicity Release: The primary purpose of directory information is to allow RRISD to include information from your child’s records in district publications and announcements. Directory information includes the following: student name; address; telephone listing; electronic mail address; photograph; date and place of birth; honors and awards received; dates of attendance; grade level; most recent educational institution attended; enrollment status; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; weight and height of members of athletic teams; student's parent's or guardian's name, address, telephone listing, electronic mail address; and similar information defined as "directory information" by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. Parents shall have the option to allow release of directory information for school-sponsored purposes only. The Texas Education Code, Sec. 26.009, allows videotaping of a student for the purposes of safety or discipline, instruction, media coverage, co-curricular or extracurricular activity (such as athletics, band or PTA programs), without parental consent. RRISD staff may photograph, videotape, or audiotape students in our schools for purposes other than those stated directly in the code and publish that content on RRISD web properties and publications. Información del Directorio/Publicidad: Notificación de la Ley de Privacidad y Derechos Educativos de la Familia (FERPA, siglas en inglés) y Autorización de Publicidad en los Medios. El propósito principal de la información del directorio es permitir a RRISD de incluir información del expediente educativo de los estudiantes en las publicaciones y anuncios del distrito. La información del directorio incluye lo siguiente: nombre; dirección; número de teléfono; correos electrónicos; fotografías; fecha y lugar de nacimiento del estudiante; honores y premios recibidos; fechas de asistencia; grado escolar; la más reciente institución educativa atendida; estatus de inscripción; participación en actividades o deportes oficialmente reconocidos; peso y altura de miembros de equipos atléticos; nombre; dirección y teléfonos de los padres o tutores legales del estudiante; e información similar definida como “información del directorio” por la Ley de Privacidad y Derechos Educativos de la Familia. Los padres tienen la opción de permitir que proporcione información del directorio para solamente propósitos patrocinados por la escuela. El Código de Educación de Texas, Sec. 26.009, permite grabar en video a un estudiante para el propósito de seguridad o disciplina, instrucción, cobertura de prensa, o actividades curriculares o extracurriculares (como atletismo, banda o programas de PTA), sin el consentimiento de los padres. El personal de RRISD puede fotografiar, grabar en video y audio a estudiantes en nuestras escuelas para fines distintos a los establecidos directamente en el código y publicar dicho contenido en publicaciones y propiedades de la red de RRISD. 2. Internet Access Agreement Students are given access to databases, libraries, and other online resources. They must follow the Appropriate Use Policy. If they violate the Terms and Conditions, they may lose access privileges on the RRISD network and may be subject to school disciplinary action. El Acuerdo al Acceso a Internet Los estudiantes tienen acceso a bases de datos, bibliotecas y otros recursos en línea. Deberán seguir la Política de Uso Apropiado. Si violan los Términos y Condiciones, podrían perder privilegios de acceso a la red de RRISD y podrían estar sujetos a acción disciplinaria por parte de la escuela.
3. Bring Your Own Device /Technology (BYOD) The use of personal devices by students is optional and students who do not participate will not be penalized. Alternative modes of participation will be available. Traer su Propio Aparato de Tecnología (BYOD, siglas en inglés) La participación en el uso de aparatos personales por parte de los estudiantes es opcional y los estudiantes que no participen no serán penalizados. Modos alternativos de participación estarán disponibles.
4. Google Apps for Education By providing these online tools, Round Rock ISD equips students with the electronic communication and digital citizenship skills necessary for success in post secondary education and the work place. Students in grades KG-12 are given access to selected Google Apps tools. Google Apps para la Educación Al proporcionar estas herramientas en línea, Round Rock ISD prepara a los estudiantes con las destrezas necesarias para la comunicación electrónica y el respeto digital para el éxito en la educación superior y en el lugar de trabajo. Los estudiantes de kinder a doceavo grados se les da acceso a ciertas Google Apps como herramientas.
5. Handbook The Round Rock ISD Parent-Student Handbook and Student Code of Conduct are available online at www.roundrockisd.org. A paper copy is also available upon request. Manual El Manual para Padres y Estudiantes y el Código de Conducta Estudiantil de Round Rock ISD están disponibles en línea en www.roundrockisd.org. También puede solicitar una copia en papel.
Please keep for your records. Por favor, guárdelos en sus archivos.
Student’s Last Name/: _____________________________ Student’s First Name/: ___________________________ Apellido del Estudiante Nombre del Estudiante Student ID#/Número de Identificación: _________________________ Grade Level/Grado: ___________________
Permissions Form (Please print clearly in blue or black ink.)
Formulario de Permisos (Por favor escriba claramente con tinta azul o negra.)
1. Directory Information/Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) Notice: Información del Directorio/Notificación de la Ley de Privacidad y Derechos Educativos de la Familia (FERPA, siglas en inglés): A. I give RRISD permission to release directory information as listed in the “Information Regarding Permission Forms” section to only school and district sponsored purposes. (Selecting “No” indicates your child will not appear in any school or district publications, including the campus and district websites.) Doy permiso a RRISD que proporcione información del directorio que se enumeran en la sección “Información Acerca del Formulario de Permisos” para solamente propósitos patrocinados por las escuelas y el distrito. (Si selecciona “No” indica que su hijo(a) no aparecerá en ninguna publicación de la escuela o del distrito, incluyendo los sitios web de la escuela y del distrito.) YES/SI NO B. I give RRISD permission to include and identify my student in student publications such as yearbook, newspaper, news website (secondary schools only), and campus broadcast. Please note that marking "NO" will mean that your student cannot be included in the yearbook. Doy permiso a RRISD de incluir e identificar a mi estudiante en publicaciones estudiantiles tales como anuario, periódico, sitio web de noticias (escuelas secundarias solamente), y transmisión en la escuela. Por favor, tome en cuenta que si marca “No” indicará que su estudiante no puede ser incluido en el anuario. YES/SI
NO
C. I give RRISD permission to release directory information as listed in the “Information Regarding Permission Forms” section to any requester outside of Round Rock ISD. This includes military recruiters. Doy permiso a RRISD que proporcione información del directorio que se enumeran en la sección “Información Acerca del Formulario de Permisos” para cualquier solicitante fuera de Round Rock ISD. Esto incluye los reclutadores militares e instituciones de educación superior. YES/SI NO 2. Internet Access Agreement: I have read, understand, and agree to the requirements and guidelines in regards to my student accessing the Internet as described in the Parent-Student Handbook. I also understand that any violation may result in the loss of my student’s network and/or device privileges as well as other disciplinary action. *For instructional and administrative purposes, students are automatically given access to Google Apps for Education accounts and the internet on the first day of school. Administrative time is required to intake and process forms; therefore, if you prefer this access be denied prior to form processing, please contact the school office.
El Acuerdo para Acceso al Internet: He leído, entiendo y estoy de acuerdo con los requisitos y directrices en lo que respecta a que mi hijo/a tenga acceso a internet como se describe en el Manual para Padres y Estudiantes. También entiendo que cualquier violación por parte de mi hijo/a no sería buena ética y podría resultar en la pérdida de privilegios al uso de aparatos y/o de la red, así como otras medidas disciplinarias. *Para propósitos educativos y administrativos, los estudiantes se les da automáticamente el acceso a cuentas de Google Apps para la Educación y el internet en el primer día de clases. Se requiere tiempo administrativo para el proceso de admisión y formularios; por lo tanto, si usted prefiere que no tenga acceso antes del procesamiento del formulario, por favor comuníquese con la oficina de la escuela.
I give my student permission for Internet access. Doy permiso para que mi hijo/a tenga acceso al internet.
YES/SI
NO
3. Bring Your Own Device/Technology (BYOD): I have read and understand the requirements and guidelines for using technology as described in the Parent-Student Handbook. I also understand that any violation may result in the loss of my student’s network and/or device privileges as well as other disciplinary action. Traer su Propio Aparato de Tecnología (BYOD, siglas en inglés): He leído y entiendo los requisitos y directrices para el uso de tecnología como se describe en el Manual para Padres y Estudiantes.También entiendo que cualquier violación por parte de mi hijo/a podría resultar en la pérdida de los privilegios de usar la red y/o dispositivos, así como otras medidas disciplinarias. YES/SI NO* 4. Google Apps for Education: I have read and understand the requirements and guidelines for using Google Apps for Education as described in the Parent-Student Handbook. I also understand that any violation may result in the loss of my student’s network and/or device privileges as well as other disciplinary action. Google Apps para la Educación: He leído y entiendo los requisitos y directrices para el uso de Google Apps para la Educación como se describe en el Manual para Padres y Estudiantes. También entiendo que cualquier violación por parte de mi hijo/a podría resultar en la pérdida de los privilegios de usar la red y/o dispositivos, así como otras medidas disciplinarias. I give my student permission to participate in Google Apps for Education. Doy permiso para que mi hijo/a participe en Google Apps para la Educación.
YES/SI
NO
5. Handbook: Please check one of the following options I accept responsibility for accessing the Parent-Student Handbook and Student Code of Conduct by visiting the Web address listed above. I would like to receive a paper copy of the Parent-Student Handbook and Student Code of Conduct Manual: Por favor, marque una de las siguientes opciones Acepto la responsabilidad de obtener acceso al Manual para Padres y Estudiantes y el Código de Conducta Estudiantil visitando la página Web que aparece arriba. Quiero recibir una copia en papel del Manual para Padres y Estudiantes y el Código de Conducta Estudiantil.
Failure to return this form within 10 days of receipt will be considered permission for all options listed. By signing this form, you acknowledge you have read the Parent-Student Handbook.
Print Name of Parent: _______________________________________________ Date: ______________________
Signature of Parent: _____________________________________________________________________________ Si no devuelve este formulario dentro de los 10 días escolares después de haberlo recibido, se considerará que da su permiso a todas las opciones enumeradas. Al firmar este formulario, usted reconoce haber leído el Manual para Padres y Estudiantes.
Escriba el Nombre del Padre/Tutor Legal: _________________________________________________________
Firma del Padre/Tutor Legal: _____________________________________________ Fecha: _________________
**Must be returned to the campus within 10 days.** Deben ser devueltos a la escuela dentro de 10 días Rev. SY 17-18
