TAR RIVER ACADEMY
STUDENT HANDBOOK
2015 – 2016
John F. Milliner-Williams
Principal
224 South Pearl Street
Rocky Mount, NC
27803
252-451-2851
252-985-4336 FAX
http://nrms.schoolwires.net/tra
Welcome to Tar River Academy!
Vision Statement
The staff at Tar River Academy believes that the most important people on our campus are our
students. The motto “Students First” means that our students are our purpose and our mission.
We constantly strive to develop a child-centered environment where all decisions are based on
the best interests of our students and not what is the most convenient for adults.
Mission Statement
Tar River Academy is dedicated and committed to helping every student become an educated
and productive citizen and we pledge to work with all students and their families to achieve this
goal.
We believe:
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All students can learn.
Partnerships between the school, families, and the community are essential to the success
of students.
Graduation is an integral step in the pathway to lifelong learning.
A safe and orderly school environment promotes learning.
Student involvement in extracurricular activities builds character and promotes healthy
self esteem.
Students who are actively engaged in learning will experience success.
Second chances are opportunities for self-improvement.
Teachers should be reflective practitioners, lifelong learners, and take advantage of
opportunities for professional improvement.
A strong professional learning community improves student achievement.
Positive recognition supports positive results.
At TRA we BELIEVE in second chances?
Rise like a Phoenix and make it a great year!
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SCHOOL CALENDAR 2015-2016
AUGUST
25 – First Day of School
SEPTEMBER
1 – Holiday
9 – Early Release
OCTOBER
13 - Teacher Workday/Student Holiday
28 – End of grading period
NOVEMBER
4 – Report Cards Issued
11 – Veterans Day Holiday
26 - Teacher Workday/Student Holiday
27-28 – Thanksgiving Holidays
DECEMBER
22-23 - Teacher Workday/Student Holiday
24-Jan.2 – Winter Break
JANUARY
1 – New Year’s Holiday
5 - Students Return
16 – Early Release/End of Grading Period
19 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday
20 – Teacher Workday/Student Holiday
27 – Report Cards Issued
FEBRUARY
16 – Student Holiday
MARCH
6 – Teacher Workday/Student Holiday
7 – Early Release
26 – End of Grading Period
APRIL
1 – Report Cards Issued
3-10 – Spring Break
MAY
25 – Memorial Day Holiday
JUNE
8 –Early Release
9 – End of Grading Period/Last Day for Students
13 – Graduation
Make-Up Days due to bad weather or other circumstances may be on the first appropriate workday or Student Holiday at the
school board’s discretion.
*Progress report dates:
September 25
December 3
February 23
May 7
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REGULAR BELL SCHEDULE
Middle School
09:00-10:10
10:15-11:15
11:20-12:45
12:00-12:20
12:50- 1:50
1:55- 2:55
3:00- 4:00
Block 1
Block 2
Block 3
LUNCH
Block 4
Block 5
Block 6
(MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS WILL EAT BREAKFAST IN THEIR CLASSROOMS)
(NOTE: THE BELLS WILL ONLY RING FOR Grades 9th-12th)
High School/Academy
09:10-10:40
09:45- 12:15
12:25- 2:25
2:20 - 4:00
Block 1
Block 2
Block 3
Block 4
FIRST LUNCH
12:30-12:50 PM
SECOND LUNCH
12:55-1:15 PM
DUE TO THE LIMITED NUMBER OF STUDENTS AND ADDITIONAL ADULT
SUPERVISION, OUR 9TH-12TH GRADERS WISHING NOT TO EAT
BREAKFAST
WILL
REMAIN IN THE CAFETERIA UNTIL CLASS BEGINS AT 09:00AM.
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1- Hour Delay
Middle School
10:00-10:10 -Announcements
10:10-11:00 -1st period
11:05-11:55 -2nd period
12:00-1:10 -3rd period (lunch from 12:00-12:20)
1:15-2:05
-4th period
2:10-3:00
-5th period
3:05-4:00
-6th period
High School
10:00-10:10 -Announcements
10:10-11:30 -1st Period
11:35-1:20 -2nd Period (lunch for 12:30-12:50 or 12:55-1:15)
1:25- 2:40 -3rd Period
2:25- 4:00 -4th Period
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2 - Hour Delay
Middle School
11:00-11:10 -Announcements
11:10-11:50 -1st period
11:55-1:00
-2nd period (lunch from 12:00-12:20)
1:05-1:45
-3rd period
1:50-2:30
-4th period
2:35-3:15
-5th period
3:20-4:00
-6th period
High School
11:00-11:10 -Announcements
11:10-12:15 -1st Period
12:20-1:45
-2nd Period (lunch for 12:30-12:50 or 12:55-1:15)
1:50- 2:45
-3rd Period
2:50- 4:00
-4th Period
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TRA
Early Release Schedule
9:00 Starts Homeroom/ First period
9:10 - 10:00
1st Period
10:05 - 10:45
2nd Period
10:50 - 11:45
3rd Period
11:00 - 11:20 Lunch
11:50 - 12:25
4th Period
12:30 - 1:10
5th Period
1:15 - 2:00
6th Period
HS Early Dismissal Schedule
9:00 - 10:00
1st Period
10:05 – 11:05
2nd Period
11:10 - 12:40
3rd Period
Lunch 11:25 - 11:40
11:45 - 12:05
12:45 - 1:45(2:00)
4th Period
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Tar River Academy student body consists of approximately one hundred thirty students residing in every corner of
the Nash-Rocky Mount School District. We service students from in the sixth, seventh, eight, ninth, tenth, eleventh,
and twelfth grades.
DISCRIMINATION
The Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, sex, age,
disability, or national origin in admission to, access to, and treatment in its programs and activities. Students and
parents are encouraged to submit any complaints of unlawful discrimination, harassment, or bullying, through the
grievance procedure established in Policy Code 1740/4010, Student and Parent Grievance Procedure in Nash-Rocky
Mount Public Schools Policy Manual.
Title IX Coordinator: Secondary Education Specialist Section 504 Coordinator: Director of Exceptional Children,
Nash/Rocky Mount Schools, 930 Eastern Avenue, Nashville, NC 27856.
HOMEWORK
The need for homework varies according to the content and levels of courses. Its value lies in practicing skills and
doing research. Parents are to encourage regular, organized study, to show interest in assignments, to expect
satisfactory performance, and to provide the proper conditions for home study.
LIBRARY-MEDIA CENTER INFORMATION
The library/media center is open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily. Students who wish to visit the library/media
center during the day must obtain a hall pass from a teacher. All students must sign in when they enter the library.
Students may check out books, magazines, certain reference books, and/or Kindles from the library. A student may
check out no more than two items at any one time. Books may be checked out for 14 days and renewed for another
two weeks. Magazines may be checked out overnight, but are due back in the library/media center before school
ends the next day. The fine for overdue items is $.05 per day.
All fines must be paid before additional materials can be checked out. Unfulfilled financial obligations will become
Senior Debts.
In addition to printed materials, various electronic resources are available to students. Students may search the
computerized card catalog as well as periodical indexes, encyclopedias, dictionaries, atlases, and other digital
reference sources.
The Internet is available to students for curriculum-related assignments on all library/media center computers.
Students must have a signed copy of the Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools Internet Acceptable Use Policy on file
in the library/media center before they can use the Internet and other online references.
Students may print from computers at a cost of $.10 per page. Students may also print using the color printers in the
library/media center at a cost of $.25 per page. Students may also have photocopies made in the library/media
center at a cost of $.10 per page. A library printing card must be purchased and used for printing or copying needs.
The library/media center represents the single most important resource center in the school. Students are encouraged
to use the library for reading, study, research, and personal growth. In order for the library to provide quality
services to everyone, students who visit the library must be quiet and orderly at all times.
NO food or beverages are allowed in the library/media center.
LOCKERS
Tar River Academy does not have lockers.
FERPA: RIGHTS OF ACCESS TO STUDENT RECORDS
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age
(“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s education record.
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Parents of students or 18-year-old students have the right to inspect and review the student’s education records
within 45 days of the day the principal receives a request for access. Parents and eligible students may have a copy
of the records for a standard copying fee of 10 cents per page.
Parents of students or 18-year-old students have the right to request the amendment of the student’s records. If
parents or adult students believe something in the records is inaccurate or misleading, they should submit to the
school principal a written request that clearly identifies the part of the record they want changed and specify why it
is inaccurate or misleading.
If the school system decides not to amend the record as requested, the school system will notify the parent or eligible
student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional
information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the
right to a hearing.
Parents of students or 18-year-old students have the right to consent to disclosure of personally identifiable
information contained in the student’s records, except to the extent FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
Records will not be released to most persons or agencies without the written consent of the parent or eligible
student, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational
interests. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an educational record
in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. A school official is a person employed by the school system
as an administrator, supervisor, instructor or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law
enforcement personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the school system
has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant or therapist); or a parent or
student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school
official in performing his or her tasks.
It is the policy of the Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools Administrative Unit to forward school records, without
consent, to school officials in another unit to which a student seeks or intends to enroll. This is to facilitate the
prompt placement of the student in the new school. However, parents may request a copy of the record. Similarly,
without consent, the unit forwards transcripts, or other information requested by high school students, to colleges
and other educational institutions to which the students are applying.
Parents of students or 18-year-old students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education
concerning alleged failure by this school system to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address
of the office that administers FERPA are:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Ave. SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605
It is the policy of the Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools Administrative Unit to destroy information of a sensitive
nature (e.g., exceptional children’s records) five years after a student graduates or one year after a non-graduate
reaches 21 years of age. However, parents may request that such sensitive information be destroyed immediately
after it is determined that a student is no longer in need of special services. In rare instances, these records may be
needed by the student or the parents for Social Security benefits or other similar purposes. Especially in these
situations, the parents or the students may wish to secure a copy of these records for their files.
Also, federal law permits a school unit to identify certain information as “directory information” which may be
publicly released without permission of the parents. The Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools Administrative Unit
identifies this information as the following: name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of
study, participation in activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance,
diplomas and awards received and most recent previous school attended. In addition, in compliance with North
Carolina General Statute GS 20-11(n) and 20-13.2(c1), we will also include as directory information student
performance determining eligibility for a driver’s permit. Any parent or eligible student who objects to the release
of any or all of this information without consent must make written notification to the principal of the school where
the records are kept within 15 days of the opening day of school in the fall semester. The objection must state what
information the parent or student does not want to be classified as directory information. If we do not receive your
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notice by that date, we will assume that you have no objection to release of such information. We make every
reasonable effort to protect our students’ privacy. For example, it is our policy not to release information to
businesses for commercial purposes, and we do not release information to individuals without good reason.
Therefore, most parents do not restrict the release of directory information.
For a complete copy of the Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools Administrative Unit’s student record policy, contact
your school principal. Parents who have questions, concerns or complaints about the student record policy may
direct them to the principal, the Superintendent or the U.S. Department of Education.
--Legal Ref: Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, (20USC 1232g); 34CFR Part 99
North Carolina General Statutes 115C-566, and 20-11
NOTICE REGARDING ACCESS TO STUDENTS AND RELEASE OF STUDENT INFORMATION
By federal law, this school system must provide to U.S. Military recruiters upon request, secondary students’ names,
home addresses, telephone listing and provide such recruiters the same access to students which this system
generally provides to post-secondary educational institutions and prospective employers, UNLESS the student, the
student’s parent or legally appointed custodian or guardian has requested in writing that such information about the
student not be released. All such written requests shall be submitted to the Superintendent’s office at 930 Eastern
Avenue, Nashville, NC 27856. [See 10 US Code Section 503(c) (1)(A).]
NRMPS BOARD OF EDUCATION POLICIES
Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools Board of Education policies can be found at each school in the principal’s office;
The NRMPS Administrative Offices, 930 Eastern Avenue, Nashville, NC; and on the NRMPS web site,
www.nrms.k12.nc.us.
Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or disability
in admission to, access to and treatment in its programs and activities.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
ADMINISTERING MEDICINES TO STUDENTS
The board recognizes that students may need to take medication during school hours. School nurse may administer
drugs or medication prescribed by a healthcare practitioner upon the written request of the parents. To minimize
disruptions to the school day, medicines should be taken at home rather than at school whenever possible. There is a
Self-Medication Administration Form available at the Nurse’s Office and must be completed before Self-Administering
any legal medications.(NRMPS Board Policy Code 6125)
CHECKING IN/OUT FOR LATE ARRIVALS
1.
Students arriving to school late should report to the Main Office to sign in.
2.
Personal transportation issues will not be grounds for excused late arrival/check-in or absence from class or
school.
3.
Students returning after checking out of school should check-in through the Main Office.
CHECKING OUT-(SECONDARY SCHOOLS)
Students may only be checked out of school by a parent, guardian, or person listed on the emergency contact card on
file with the school. Written requests for check-out can be handled at the discretion of the administration.
Parents/guardians/emergency contacts who come to check a student out from school, must present a valid ID. All
students who leave school before the end of the school day must sign a log that is in check in/check-out (maintained
in the principal’s office) indicating the time and reason for leaving school. The principal or designee will notify the
student’s teacher, and the student’s absence from the class will be excused if approved by the principal or designee.
1.
Students must leave campus immediately after checking out.
2.
Failure to sign out properly or loitering will result in detention or suspension dependent upon prior actions
with the student.
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COURSE SELECTION AND CHANGES
In the spring, students complete registration for the next school year, with parental approval, for the following
school year. After courses are selected, changes will be made only in cases of computer scheduling errors, or cases
with definite academic reasons to support the change. Schedule changes are at the discretion of the principal.
Students and parents are to carefully consider graduation requirements, course content, course level, total course
load and student involvement in work and extracurricular activities before making final course selections.
iCONNECT LAPTOP POLICY
All students will be issued laptops through the school. Students wishing to take the laptops home must pay a $50.00
usage fee. This fee can be paid at any time during the course of the school year. Students are responsible for the
laptops and power cords once issued to them whether they are a 24/7 user (paid fee to take home) or a day-user
(only uses device at school). Any damages to the computer must be reported immediately to the Media Coordinator.
Students are responsible for any damages while the device is issued to them and may be assessed fees accordingly.
Students are not to download unapproved software and may have to pay a re-imaging fee if they do so. The laptops
are the property of the NRMPS and as such may be inspected at any time. Students should not download illegal
material or use the laptops in conjunction with any illegal or unethical activities. If a student laptop is stolen, the
police should be contacted immediately and a police report filed. The parent must get a copy of the police report
and bring it to the school.
Students should be good digital citizens by following these expectations:
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Using computers in a responsible and ethical manner.
Obeying school rules concerning behavior and communication that apply to computer use.
Using all technology resources in an appropriate manner so as to not damage school equipment.
Using good “netiquette.” Netiquette is a courteous and respectful way to conduct oneself on-line while
recognizing that not all online content is verified, correct, and appropriate.
Keeping in mind that anything posted online may be accessible to other students, parents, teachers, future
colleges, or employers in the future. Once something is online, it can sometimes be shared in ways not intended.
Helping the NRMPS protect the computer system by contacting an administrator about any security problems
they may encounter.
Monitoring all activity on their account(s).
Always logging off the computer after they are done working to protect their accounts and files. If a student
does not log off, any email or Internet activity under their name will be considered their responsibility.
Charge computers at home. Charging in the classroom creates a safety hazard. If needed, students may charge
their laptops in the media center during lunch. Students should not stream music, charge cell phones, play
video games, or engage in other non-educational activities on the laptops that will drain the battery faster than
normal use.
Returning their laptop to the NRMPS Technology Department at the end of each school year. Students who
graduate early, withdraw, are suspended or expelled, or terminate enrollment at the NRMPS for any other
reason must return their individual school laptop computer on or before the date of exit.
Teachers have discretion as to when laptops should be used in the classroom. Teachers may instruct students to
remove laptops from their desk and store appropriately during classroom activities that may not require digital
resources. Refusal by a student to follow the teacher’s direction regarding laptops could result in the student being
sent to Chill Out for insubordination.
ENROLLMENT INFORMATION
Students who wish to enroll must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and should present records from the
previous school. State law requires complete immunization records within one month after enrollment. Board of
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Education policy requires that any student who does not meet this guideline be suspended. Parents or guardians must
have proof of residence in the form of official documents from a government, banking or leasing agency.
FOOD, DRINK AND LUNCH REGULATIONS
1.
2.
All food and drink purchased off campus shall be consumed or disposed of before entering the building.
Breakfast will be served in the cafeteria from 8:45 AM – 9:15 AM and will not be an excuse to be late for
first period class.
3. There is no cost for lunch or dinner.
4. During lunch, food may be consumed in the cafeteria only.
5. Foods and beverages (other than water) may NOT be consumed in the classrooms.
6. During lunch, there are four serving lines from which students may choose.
7. Seniority of class or grade has no privilege; therefore breaking in line will not be tolerated at any time.
Violators will be sent to the back of the line.
8. Teachers are permitted to go to the head of the lunch line since they may have various duties during the
lunch period.
9. Trash/ recycling receptacles are located at convenient places in the designated eating area. Students are
responsible for cleaning their tables and throwing their trash in the proper place.
10. Students may bring lunch from home but are not allowed to have food delivered for lunch.
11. Students are allowed to remain in the designated eating areas. The parking lots, the exteriors of the
building and designated hallways are off-limits during lunch. Lunch off campus is not permitted by
school board policy.
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
It is the policy of the Nash-Rocky Mount Board of Education that all students shall have the right to present for
solution any problem arising within their status as students and shall be encouraged to exercise this right without
fear of recrimination. It is for this purpose that a grievance procedure is established. To ensure that any problem is
corrected as soon as possible, time limits have been established to assure prompt attention to each problem. If the
student does not process his/her grievance within the set time limit, it shall be considered settled and not open to
appeal.
The grievance procedure may be used to address any situation occurring within the operation or normal procedures
of the school, which causes a student and/or parent to believe there has been a violation, misapplication or
misinterpretation or law, regulation or Board policy, except in the case of long-term suspension, which are
governed by N-RMPS Policy Code 4361. Students and their parents are encouraged to discuss their concerns
informally with the person(s) involved before invoking formal grievance procedures. Please refer to NRMPS
Board Policy Code 1740/4010 for more details.
SEARCH AND SEIZURE
To maintain order and discipline in the schools and to protect the safety and welfare of students and school
personnel, school authorities may search a student, student lockers, or student automobiles under the circumstances
outlined below and may seize any illegal, unauthorized, or contraband materials discovered in the search.
As used in this policy, the term “unauthorized” means any item dangerous to the health or safety of students or
school personnel, or disruptive of any lawful function, mission or process of the school, or any item described as
unauthorized in school rules available beforehand to the student.
Personal Searches – A student’s person and/or personal effects (i.e. purse, book bag, etc.) may be searched
whenever a school authority has reasonable suspicion to believe that the student is in possession of illegal or
unauthorized materials.
Automobile Searches – Students are permitted to park on school premises as a matter of privilege, not of right. The
school retains authority to conduct routine patrols of student parking lots and inspection of the exteriors of student
automobiles on school property. The interiors of student vehicles may be inspected whenever school authority has
reasonable suspicion to believe that illegal or unauthorized materials are contained inside. Such patrols and
inspections may be conducted without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant.
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Particularized Suspicions – Personal Search – A hand-held or walk-through metal detector may be used to check
a particular students’ person(s) and personal effects whenever a school authority has reasonable grounds for
suspecting that the student or students is/are in possession of a weapon prohibited on school property, on a school
bus, or at a school activity in violation of Board policy prohibiting weapons. If a hand-held detector check of the
person of a particular student under suspicion is conducted, it will be conducted in private by a school official of the
same sex and with an adult witness present.
Generalized Suspicions – Full Search – Metal detectors may be used to screen or search a particular student when
a school administrator has reasonable grounds for suspecting that there is a weapon on school property, on school
buses, or at a school activity in the possession of an unidentified student and that screening all students present will
turn up evidence of the weapon.
Administrative Screening- Safety/Deterrence – Administrative screening of an entire student body of a particular
school, or a random sampling thereof may be carried out under such circumstances as, in the opinion of the
Superintendent and the chief administrator of the school where the search is to be conducted, a search is necessary to
accomplish any of the following objectives:
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Foster student and parent confidence in the safety of our schools and school activities;
Deter the presence of weapons on school property, on school buses, and at school related events;
Dispel student and public concerns that there are “weapons at school”;
Promote an environment conducive to orderly and disciplined learning and training that is free from fear of
physical harm by persons with weapons.
TELEPHONE MESSAGES
The main office staff receives all incoming phone calls. Only messages of an emergency nature will be delivered to
students immediately. Other messages will be delivered at the discretion of the office staff. Phone calls shall not be
transferred to students in class. *Parents should not text or call student cell phones during the school day as this can
create a disruption to the learning environment.*
VISITORS
All visitors on campus during school hours must report to the main office before proceeding to any other part of the
school building.
WITHDRAWALS
1.
A student withdrawing from school must do so through the Student Services.
2.
All fines, fees and other financial obligations must be paid and the parking tag returned and laptop returned
before any report card is issued or transcript is sent to another school.
SCHOLASTIC AFFAIRS
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Policy Code:
3460
The board recognizes the importance of setting rigorous graduation requirements to help ensure that students are receiving an
education that will prepare them to be productive members of society.
In order to graduate from high school, students must meet the following requirements:
1. successful completion of all course unit requirements mandated by the State Board of Education (see Section A);
2. beginning in the 2015-2016 school year, successful completion of cardiopulmonary resuscitation instruction; and
3. successful completion of all other requirements mandated by the board, as provided in this policy.
The principal shall ensure that students and parents are aware of all graduation requirements. Guidance program staff shall assist
students in selecting their high school courses to ensure that students are taking all of the required units and selecting electives
consistent with their post-graduation plans. For students who have transferred to the school system during high school or who,
for other reasons, have completed course work outside of the school system, the principal shall determine what course work will
be applied as credit toward graduation. The principal shall consider the requirements of the Interstate Compact on Educational
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Opportunity for Military Children (G.S. 115C-407.5) and the requirements of subsection D.3 of this policy in determining the
graduation requirements for children of military families.
A. COURSE UNITS REQUIRED
Beginning with students entering the ninth grade for the first time in the 2009-2010 school year, students must fulfill the
requirements of the Future-Ready Core Course of Study, unless they are approved for the Future-Ready Occupational Course
of Study. Course unit requirements for the Future-Ready Core Course of Study may differ depending on the year a student
enters ninth grade for the first time.
1. Future-Ready Core Course of Study Credits Required for Students Entering Ninth Grade for the First Time in 20122013 and Thereafter
Courses
Required
State Requirements
English
4 sequential (English I, II, III and IV)
Mathematics
4 (either Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II and a fourth math course aligned
with the student’s post-high school plans OR Integrated Math I, II and III
and a fourth math course aligned with the student’s post-high school plans)
Local Requirements
(A principal may exempt a student from this math sequence. Exempt
students will be required to pass either (1) Algebra I and Geometry or (2)
Integrated Math I and II. Exempt students also must pass either
Alternative Math I and II or two other application-based math courses.)**
Science
3 (a physical science course, Biology and earth/environmental science)
Social Studies
4 (including Civics & Economics; American History Parts I and II OR AP
U.S. History and one additional social studies elective; and World History)
Health/P.E.
1
Electives
6 (2 electives must be any combination of Career and Technical Education,
Arts Education or World Language; 4 must be from one of the following:
Career and Technical Education, R.O.T.C., Arts Education or any other
subject area or cross-disciplinary course. A four-course concentration is
recommended.)***
Total Credits
22
12 (including staterequired 6 electives)
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* Students participating in the Career & College Promise program may earn high school credit for college courses
(“dual credit”) according to the Career & College Promise program guidelines established by the Department of
Public Instruction.
** Students seeking to complete minimum application requirements for UNC universities must complete four
mathematics courses, including a fourth math course with Algebra II or Integrated Math III as a prerequisite.
*** Students seeking to complete minimum application requirements for UNC universities must complete two years
of a second language.
2. Future-Ready Core Course of Study Credits Required for Students Entering Ninth Grade for the First Time in 20092010, 2010-2011 or 2011-2012
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Courses
Required
State Requirements
English
4 sequential (English I, II, III and IV)*
Mathematics
4 (either Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II and a fourth math course aligned
with the student’s post-high school plans OR Integrated Math I, II and III
and a fourth math course aligned with the student’s post-high school plans)
Local Requirements
(A principal may exempt a student from this math sequence. Exempt
students will be required to pass either (1) Algebra I and either Algebra II
or Geometry or (2) Integrated Math I and II. Exempt students also must
pass either Alternative Math I and II or two other application-based math
courses.)**
Science
3 (a physical science course, Biology and earth/environmental science)
Social Studies
3 (Civics & Economics, U.S. History and World History)
Health/P.E.
1
Electives
6 (2 electives must be any combination of Career and Technical Education,
Arts Education or World Language; 4 must be from one of the following:
Career and Technical Education, R.O.T.C., Arts Education or any other
subject area or cross-disciplinary course. A four-course concentration is
recommended.)***
Total Credits
21
12 (including staterequired 6 electives)
28
* Effective with the tenth grade class of 2011-2012, Early College High School students alternatively may complete
college level English courses designated by the State Board in lieu of English III and IV.
** Students seeking to complete minimum application requirements for UNC universities must complete four
mathematics courses, including a fourth math course with Algebra II or Integrated Math III as a prerequisite.
*** Students seeking to complete minimum application requirements for UNC universities must complete two years
of a second language.
3.. Future-Ready Occupational Course of Study Credits Required (only available to certain students with disabilities who
have an IEP)
Courses Required
State Requirements
English
4 (including Occupational English I, II, III and IV)
Mathematics
3 (including OCS Introduction to Math, OCS Algebra I (Math A), and
Financial Management)
Science
2 (including OCS Applied Science and OCS Biology)
Social Studies
2 (including American History I and II)
Health/P.E.
1
16
Local Requirements
Career/Technical
4 (Vocational Education electives)
World Language
0
Occupational
Preparation
6 (including Occupational Preparation I, II, III and IV, which require
300 hours of school-based training, 240 hours of community-based
training and 360 hours of paid employment or 360 hours of any
combination of unpaid vocational training, unpaid internship
experience, paid employment at community rehabilitation facilities and
volunteer and/or community service hours)
Electives
0
Other Requirements
• Completion of IEP objectives
• Career Portfolio
Total Credits
22
B. HIGH SCHOOL COURSE-SPECIFIC ASSESSMENTS
Students must take all course-specific assessments as required by the State Board of Education.
As outlined in NC State Board Policy GCS-A-016, Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools will utilize the results from all
course-specific operational assessments as twenty percent (20%) of the student’s final grade for each respective course. This
requirement applies only to high school courses. State course-specific assessments should be the only final exam for the
courses for which they are available. All final exams (teacher made, End-of-Course, NC Final Exam, or CTE postassessments) will be utilized as 20% of the student’s final grade.
C. ADDITIONAL LOCAL REQUIREMENTS
Students must successfully complete a North Carolina Graduation Project (NCGP) as a condition of high school
graduation from Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools. All high schools will follow the Standards of Quality for Graduation
Projects as approved by the State Board of Education. The principal of each high school shall monitor the implementation of
the NCGP and compliance with regard to the Standards of Quality. The superintendent will certify compliance to the North
Carolina Department of Public Instruction of each high school as outlined by the Department.
D. SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES
The board adopts the following policies with regard to graduation.
1. Honor Graduates
Honor graduates may be designated by principals on the basis of criteria established by the superintendent. A student
who completes the requirements of the North Carolina Academic Scholars Program will receive recognition, including a
seal affixed to his or her diploma. Recognition of honor graduates may be included in graduation programs.
2. Students with Disabilities
Graduation requirements must be applied to students with disabilities to the extent required by state and federal law and
State Board policy.
3. Children of Military Families
In order to facilitate the on-time graduation of children of military families, the board adopts the following policy
provisions for students to whom the Interstate Compact on Educational Opportunity for Military Children applies.
17
a. Waiver Requirements
Specific course work required for graduation will be waived if similar course work has been satisfactorily completed
in another school system. If a waiver is not granted, school administrators shall provide the student with reasonable
justification for the denial. If a waiver is not granted to a student who would qualify to graduate from the sending
school, the superintendent or designee shall provide the student with an alternative means of acquiring the required
course work so that the student may graduate on time.
b. Testing Requirements for Graduation
The superintendent shall accept the following in lieu of any local testing requirements for graduation: (1) the end-ofcourse exams required for graduation from the sending state; (2) national norm-referenced achievement tests; or (3)
alternative testing. If these alternatives are not feasible for a student who has transferred in his or her senior year,
subsection c below will apply.
c. Transfers During Senior Year
If a child of a military family who has transferred at the beginning of or during his or her senior year is ineligible to
graduate from the school system after all of the alternatives listed above have been considered and the student meets
the graduation requirements at his or her sending school, then school officials from the school system shall
collaborate with the sending school system to ensure that the student will receive a diploma from the sending board
of education.
4. Early Graduation
Graduation prior to that of one’s class may be permitted on the basis of criteria approved by the board upon
recommendation by the superintendent.
5. Graduation Certificates
Graduation certificates will be awarded to eligible students in compliance with State Board policy.
6. Diploma Endorsements
Beginning with the graduating class of 2014-2015, students will have the opportunity to earn an endorsement to their
diploma identifying a particular area of focused study including: (1) Career Endorsement, (2) College Endorsement, (3)
College Plus Endorsement, and/or (4) North Carolina Academic Scholars Endorsement. No endorsement is required to
receive a diploma, and a student may earn more than one endorsement.
Legal References: G.S. 115C-47, -81, -174.11, -276, -288, -407.5; State Board of Education Policies GCS-C-003, GCS-L-007,
GCS-N-004, -010
Cross References: Goals and Objectives of the Educational Program (policy 3000), Student Promotion and Accountability
(policy 3420), Citizenship and Character Education (policy 3530), Children of Military Families (policy 4050)
Adopted: June 29, 2009
Revised: June 14, 2010; February 7, 2011; August 1, 2011; September 9, 2013; January 6, 2014
18
For some Ninth Graders
For Ninth Graders Entering in
with
Cognitive Disabilities
Content Area
2009 – 2011-12
2000 - >
For Ninth Graders Entering in
2012-13 and Later
OCCUPATIONAL
Course of Study
Requirements
FUTURE-READY
FUTURE-READY
CORE
CORE
(Selected IEP students excluded from EOC
Proficiency Level requirements)
English
Mathematics
4 credits
4 Credits
4 Credits
Occupational English I,II,III, IV
I, II, III, IV
I, II, III, IV
3 credits
4 Credits
4 Credits
Occupational Mathematics I, II, III Integrated Math I, II, III, and a 4th Math Integrated Math I, II, III, and a 4th Math
Course to be aligned with the student’s post Course to be aligned with the student’s post
high school plans
high school plans
A student, in rare instances, may be able to take an A student, in rare instances, may be able to take an
alternative math course sequence as outlined under State alternative math course sequence as outlined under State
Board of Education policy. Please see your school Board of Education policy. Please see your school
counselor for more details.
counselor for more details.
Science
Social Studies
2 Credits
3 Credits
Life Skills Science I, II
Environmental
Science,
physical science course
3 Credits
2 Credits
3 Credits
Biology,
a Environmental
Science,
physical science course
Biology,
a
4 Credits
Social Studies I (Government/ Us World History, US History, Civics and World History, American History Part I and
History)
Economics
II, Civics and Economics
Social
Studies
II
(SelfAdvocacy/Problem Solving)
(AP US History must be paired with Special
Topics in US History to meet the two
course requirement.)
World Languages Not required
Not required for high school graduation. A Not required for high school graduation. A
two-credit minimum is required for two-credit minimum is required for
admission to a university in the UNC admission to a university in the UNC
system.
system.
Health
Physical
Education
1 Credit
1 Credit
Health/Physical Education
Health/Physical Education
6 Credits required
6 Credits required
and 1 Credit
Health/Physical Education
Electives or other Occupational Preparation:
requirements ***
6 Credits:
2 elective credits of any combination 2 elective credits of any combination
from either:
Occupational Preparation I, II, III, from either:
IV
-Career and Technical Ed. (CTE)
-Career and Technical Ed. (CTE)
Elective credits/completion of IEP -Arts Education
-Arts Education
objectives/Career
Portfolio -World Languages
-World Languages
required
4 elective credits strongly recommended 4 elective credits strongly recommended
Career/Technical:
(four course concentration) from one of (four course concentration) from one of
4 Credits
the following:
the following:
Career/Technical
electives
Education -Career and Technical Ed. (CTE)
-JROTC
-Career and Technical Ed. (CTE)
-JROTC
Arts Education:
-Arts Education (e.g. dance, music, theater -Arts Education (e.g. dance, music, theater
Recommended at least one credit in arts, visual arts)
arts, visual arts)
an arts discipline.
-Any other subject area (e.g. social studies, -Any other subject area (e.g. social studies,
science, mathematics, English)
Total
22 Credits
science, mathematics, English)
21 Credits plus 7 additional electives (28 22 Credits plus 6 additional electives (28
total credits)
total credits)
19
Unit Requirements for Graduation
Class of 2013 and Beyond: 28 units* (except OccuPrep)

Credits in one of the following Courses of Study


Future-Ready Core
 4 Credits of English
 4 Credits of Math, including Math I, Math II, Math III, and an advanced math course
 3 Credits of Science, including a physical science, Biology, and Earth/Environmental Science
 4 Credits of Social Studies, including Civics, US History Part I and II, and World History
 1 Credit of Required Health/PE
12 elective credits of either CTE, JROTC, Arts Education, or any other subject area course. Students are
strongly encouraged to choose a concentration in one of these elective areas in order to complete higher
level courses, and in the case of CTE for credentialing in a vocational area.
All students entering their Sophomore year taking English II are required to begin course work on the local
Graduation Project which includes choosing a topic for a research paper and completing the research paper with
passing score in English III of their Junior year. The Senior year in English IV students will have an oral
presentation and a product to complete based on their research paper.
PROMOTION REQUIREMENTS
To be a sophomore (Grade 10)
5 credits
To be a junior (Grade 11)
12 credits
To be a senior (Grade 12)
20 credits
To graduate
28 credits
MODIFIED SCHEDULE
The Board may, in its discretion, arrange for the early dismissal of individual high school students who present
extreme hardship cases in order that they might work or for similar reasons. Such students may be dismissed at the
end of one-half of the school day, to be interpreted as one-half the class periods offered in that school.
Students in school-related work programs may leave early with permission of the program coordinators. Early
dismissal for reasons other than those previously stated are reviewed by the principal and granted only in rare and
extenuating circumstances.
All early dismissals shall be documented and statements on file of permission of the parent/guardian and employers
or other such persons who may be involved. The principal shall verify documentation. The request shall be
investigated thoroughly with periodic evaluations of the situation, so as to determine that the early dismissal
continues to be warranted.
EXAM EXEMPTION POLICY
Twelfth graders who maintain an “A” average and accumulate three or less absences in a course that does not have a
state mandated assessment may be exempt from teacher made exams. Exemptions are not allowed for classes that
have an EOC (End-of-Course), NC Final Exam, or VoCATS test.
HONOR ROLL POLICY

Scholars List: A student must make a 93 or higher for each course each grade reporting period.

A/B Honor Roll: A student must achieve an overall 90 average without failing any subject or receiving an
incomplete.
20

Academic Honor Roll: A student must achieve an overall 85 average without failing any subject or receiving
an incomplete.
The Academic Honor Roll is not publicized outside the school. The Scholars List and A/B Honor Roll are used at
all high schools in the Nash/Rocky Mount System and are the official publicized honor rolls.
GRADING SCALE FOR N.C. PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS
A
B
C
D
F
93 – 100
85 – 92
77 – 84
70 – 76
Failure
GRADE CONVERSION SCALE
Grade/Numeric
Grade/Numeric
Grade/Numeric
Grade/Numeric
B+ 91 – 92
C+ 83 – 84
D+ 75 – 76
A 95 – 98
B 87 – 90
C 79 – 82
D 72 – 74
A- 93 – 94
B- 85 – 86
C- 77 – 78
D- 70 – 71
A+ A+ 99 – 100
GRADE WEIGHTING SYSTEM
Rocky Mount High School’s class ranking system is based on a 4.0 scale with weight given to AP, IB, and advanced
level courses. The entire policy may be found in the Nash/Rocky Mount School’s policy manual and is available
upon request from the principal’s office.
Standardized Grading Based on 4.00 Scale
96–100 = 4.00
89 = 3.13
82 = 2.25
75 = 1.38
95 = 3.88
88 = 3.00
81 = 2.13
74 = 1.25
94 = 3.75
87 = 2.88
80 = 2.00
73 = 1.13
93 = 3.63
86 = 2.75
79 = 1.88
70-72=1.00
92 = 3.50
85 = 2.63
78 = 1.75
69 = 0.00
91 = 3.38
84 = 2.50
77 = 1.63
<69 = 0.00
90 = 3.25
83 = 2.38
76 = 1.50
CALCULATION OF CLASS RANK
The calculations are based on a standardization of academic course levels, grading scales, and the weighting of
course grades. The class rank is based on a weighted grade point average in which a single (1) quality point is added
to passing grades earned in Advanced/Honor courses or two (2) quality points are added to passing grades earned in
Advanced Placement courses and IB courses.
NORTH CAROLINA SCHOLARS PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
The North Carolina Scholars program honors students who, in addition to meeting regular graduation requirements
meet these specifications:
(Effective for students who enter the ninth grade for the first time in or after 2009-2010.)
●
●
●
●
Begin planning for the program before entering ninth grade to ensure they obtain the most flexibility in their courses.
Complete all the requirements of the North Carolina Academic Scholars Program.
Have an overall four-year un-weighted grade point average of 3.500.
Complete all requirements for a North Carolina high school diploma.
21
NC Academic Scholars Program Requirements
Future Ready Core Course of Study
Credits
Courses/Project
4
English I, II, III, IV
4
Mathematics (should include Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and a higher level math course with Algebra II as Prerequisite OR Integrated Mathematics I, II, III, and a higher level mathematics course with Integrated Mathematics III
as Pre-requisite ) The fourth math must meet MAR (Minimum Admissions Requirements) for the UNC system.
3
Science (Physics or Chemistry course, Biology, and an Earth/Environmental Science course)
3
Social Studies (World History, Civics/Economics, and U.S. History)
1
Health and Physical Education
6
Two (2) elective credits in a second language required for the UNC System Four (4) elective credits constituting a
concentration recommended from one of the following: Career and Technical Education (CTE), JROTC, Arts
Education, Second Languages, any other subject area
3
Higher level courses taken during junior and/or senior years which carry 5 or 6 quality points such as: -AP -IB -Dual
or college equivalent course -Advanced CTE/CTE credentialing courses -On-line courses -Other honors or above
designated courses
OR
2
Higher level courses taken during junior and/or senior years which carry 5 or 6 quality points such as: -AP -IB -Dual
or college equivalent course -Advanced CTE/CTE credentialing courses -On-line courses -Other honors or above
designated courses And Completion of The North Carolina Graduation Project (NRMPS Graduation Project fulfills
the NC Graduation Project requirement).
24 or 23 + Minimum state requirements + local requirements = 28 total credits.
NCGP
NC Scholars are recognized by a red cord they wear at graduation and a special seal on their diplomas.
HONOR GRADUATE REQUIREMENTS
Students who have a cumulative weighted GPA average of 3.25 at the conclusion of their senior year will be
recognized as Honor Graduates. Students who achieve this recognition wear a gold cord at graduation.
VOCATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY REQUIREMENTS
The National Vocational Honors Society honors students who, in addition to meeting regular graduation
requirements, meet these specifications:







Must be a Senior
Must have a minimum overall GPA of 88 (3.00)
Must complete a CTE (Career-Technical Education) pathway
Must have completed or currently be enrolled in at least the 5 th CTE unit
Must have an average grade of 93 (3.63) in CTE courses
Must complete Algebra II or Technical Math II
Must have a recommendation of a CTE teacher
Vocational Honor Society recipients are recognized by a white cord they wear at graduation.
22
UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
In addition to meeting regular graduation requirements, the UNC system requires one (1) Math credit beyond
Algebra II and two (2) years of the same Foreign Language.
UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA SYSTEM CAMPUSES
NC
NC A & T
UNC-Pembroke
UNC-Greensboro
UNC-Chapel Hill
NC State
Central
UNC Asheville
Western Carolina
UNC-Wilmington
UNC-Charlotte
Appalachian State
Win-Salem State
East Carolina
Fayetteville State
Elizabeth City State
NC School … Arts
COLLEGE APPLICATION
Students may check out college catalogs from Student Services. Student Services also provides many college
applications. Students are encouraged to refer to catalogs and contact the admissions offices of any university to
which they plan to apply. Students should consult their counselors to allow ample time to submit applications,
including time to attach transcripts. Students should begin planning during their junior year.
STUDENT SERVICES
Students may obtain a variety of information from faculty, advisors, and Student Services. Counselors are available
to students for both individual and group conferences to discuss personal problems, to interpret test data, and to
provide educational and vocational guidance.
Counselors are available before and after school, during lunch periods, and with teachers’ permission, during class
time. Students should not request to leave class to see their counselor except in an emergency situation.
FINANCIAL AID PLANNING
A financial aid planning workshop for college-bound students and parents will be held in the auditorium during the
month of January.
FIRST AID ROOM
The school nurse is on duty in the First Aid Room located in room 1141(Main Office). Students too sick to remain
in class or in need of temporary first-aid treatment must get a pass from the classroom teacher before going to the
school nurse. In instances when students are too ill to remain in school, the school nurse will contact the
parents/guardians before the students are released from school.
HOTLINE INFORMATION
Various hotlines are available for students needing information on subjects such as substance abuse or support
groups. Additional information may be obtained from the Dropout Prevention Counselor or through the Student
Assistance Program. Contact the main office or the Student Services Department for any information or phone
numbers.
Eastpointe (Nash & Edgecombe Counties) – Assistance if need help with mental health, intellectual and
developmental disabilities, and/or substance abuse ………………………………..1-800-913-6109 (24hrs/day)
My Sister’s House – Shelter and Support for Victims of Family Violence ….……1-888-465-9507 (24hrs/day)
Suicide Prevention Lifeline – Talk to someone now…………………………………...1-800-273-TALK (8255)
MEDIATION
Mediation is available through Student Services. The following guidelines should be followed for the most efficient
use of your time:
1. Obtain the necessary Hall Pass from your teacher.
23
2. Report to Student Services to sign up for an appointment time.
3. Return to class. You will be called from class for the mediation. Absences from class due to mediation will be
excused ONLY when you are called from class by Student Services.
RELATED SERVICES FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES
Related services is defined in Procedures Governing Programs and Services for Children with Disabilities
as follows: transportation and such developmental, corrective, and other supportive services as may be
required to assist a child with a disability to benefit from special education. They include speechlanguage pathology and audiology; psychological services; physical and occupational therapy; recreation,
including therapeutic recreation; social work services; medical and counseling services, including
rehabilitation counseling; school health services; orientation and mobility services; and parent counseling
and training. This includes the early identification and assessment of disabling conditions in children.
Medical services shall be for diagnostic and evaluation purposes only.
To be eligible to receive related services, a child must:

have one or more of the disabilities listed in the definition from the Procedures Governing Programs and
Services for Children with Disabilities;
require special education (Not all children who have a disability require special education; many can and
should attend school without any program modification.); and
require the related service in order to benefit from the special education instruction.


Important Notice
Please be advised that for some of the Related Services listed above, if provided for your child by Nash-Rocky
Mount Public Schools, the school system may be able to obtain reimbursement from the State Medicaid Program.
As a state approved Medicaid provider, it may be necessary for the school system to share the following information
to the State Department of Medicaid Administration on a monthly schedule:






Child’s name
Date of birth
Name of necessary service (speech, physical therapy)
Service provided
Amount of service provided (“30 minutes of speech therapy”)
Date(s) of service
This notice is given pursuant to applicable Federal regulations for the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act,
Title 34 C.F.R. §§99.31, 99.37 relating to directory information and the exception for the requirement of prior
consent for disclosure. This information will only be shared with the State Department of Medicaid Administration
and only for the limited purposes indicated above. The Nash-Rocky Mount School’s receipt of Medicaid
reimbursement for any of the Related Services listed above will, in no way, eliminate or reduce any Medicaid
benefits you may be receiving from other agencies, doctors, clinic, or hospitals.
STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE ADVISORY
All students are members of the Student Organization. The purposes of this organization are:





To promote harmonious relations throughout the school
To develop attitudes of and practice good citizenship
To encourage scholarship and leadership
To provide opportunities for the practice of the democratic process
To promote participation in the total life of the school
Student Organization and class elections are held six weeks before the close of school. The Student Organization
sponsors activities such as Thanksgiving and Christmas baskets, spirit week, pep rallies, Teachers of the Year, etc.
24
STUDENT BEHAVIOR
Unless otherwise specified, this Board Policy Manual 4300 Series and the Positive Behavior Support system shall
apply to all students before, during and after school hours, at school, in any school buildings and on any school
premises; on any school-owned vehicles or in any other school-approved vehicle used to transport students to and
from school or school activities; off school property or at any school-sponsored activity, event or function; during
any period of time when students are subject to the authority of school personnel; and at any time when the student’s
behavior has a direct and immediate effect on maintaining order and discipline and on protecting the safety and
welfare of students and staff.
Any student who refuses to comply with reasonable rules, regulations or directives imposed by any principal,
assistant principal, teacher or authorized school employee shall be held in violation of the Student Discipline Code
and the Positive Behavior Support System.
The Board Policy Manual 4000 Series and the Positive Behavior Support System is not inclusive. Misconduct not
specifically addressed in this code will be handled by the school administration on an individual basis. Depending
upon facts and circumstances surrounding each instance of student misconduct, the school administration, at its
discretion, may impose penalties it deems appropriate for the offense, including short-term suspension, unless
specified by board policy (indicated in bold in the bulleted Penalty statement). Parent conferences may be required
in lieu of or in addition to school imposed penalties. Repeated instances of misconduct will result in more severe
consequences.
All regulations in the code are subject to the due process contained in the Nash/Rocky Mount Schools’ Board Policy
Manual 4000 Series relative to Students.
DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of interpreting the code, the following definitions shall apply:
Chill-Out – A supervised environment for those students sent from class for violations of school rules.
Expulsion – The denial of the right to attend school and school functions for the remainder of the student’s
secondary education. Recommendation for expulsion is made to the superintendent by the principal.
Loitering – Taking more time than obviously necessary to enter or vacate the premises when authorized or asked to
do so.
Long-Term Suspension – The denial of the right to attend school and school functions for more than 10 days, but
not exceeding a 365-day calendar year. Recommendation for long-term suspension is made to the superintendent by
the principal.
Short-Term Suspension – The denial of the right to attend school and school functions for 10 days or less.
Truancy – To be out of class or away from school without proper school authorization.
POSITIVE BEHAVIOR SUPPORT SYSTEM
The Positive Behavior Support System provides consistency of what good behavior should be in all the major areas
of school. It also provides for the framework of basic classroom and school rules that are or should be consistent
from hall to hall and classroom to classroom. The following PBIS motto shows what is expected in each area of
school. Students should use common sense and exercise good values with respect to personal behavior and when
interacting with others.
25
SPECIFIC OFFENSES
CELL PHONES AND OTHER PERSONAL ELECTRONICS
Although we understand the role cell phones and other electronic devices play in the lives of students, we will not
allow them to be a disruptive force in the classroom. The privilege of possession and use of cell phones during the
instructional day has been abused. We will not allow them to continue to be a disruptive force during instructional
time. When students enter the classroom, they should put away cell phones, any other electronic devices, and
headphones. The only device students should be using in the classroom is the school issued laptop, unless otherwise
instructed by their teacher. At the point the teacher has deemed a cell phone or other electronic device to be
disruptive, it will be confiscated. Students may not use personal electronics equipment, such as radios, headphones,
CD or MP3 players, mini-TVs, pagers or cellular phones during the regularly scheduled school day, unless it is
utilized in instructional purposes approved by the teacher. Nash-Rocky Mount Public Schools board policy 4318
permits students to possess but not use cell phones and other electronic signaling devices to place or receive
telephone calls, to send or receive text messages or pages, or to use social media during the regularly scheduled
school day. Students who possess these devices are to keep them turned off. All students are required to adhere to
the following guidelines regarding cell phones and other electronic signaling devices.
Cell phones and other personal electronic devices may be used:
 On or off campus before or after school
 During breakfast or assigned lunch period to listen to music, surf the web, or for educational purposes only
(not to access social media sites or send/receive text messages, phone calls, or chats).
 Students may use personal electronic devices when instructed by the teacher for instructional purposes.
Cell phones and other personal electronic devices may not be used during:
 Instructional classroom time (unless approved by the teacher), including assemblies, pep rallies and any
other activity, which takes place during the regularly scheduled classroom periods.
 Change of classes to send/receive texts, phone calls, or chats, or to access personal social media.
 On field trips or excursions, which are conducted during the normal school day and during regular
classroom instructional time.
*Parents, if you need to reach your child during the school day, you should call the main office so appropriate
contact can be made. Students should not be receiving texts or phone calls from parents during the school
day as that becomes a disruption to the learning environment.*
*Cell phones or other electronic devices, including the school issued laptop, are not permitted at any time
during the school day to send or receive text/chat messages, access personal social media, or place or receive
phone calls.*
Because of the threat to privacy and the integrity of the educational program, the use of the camera function of a cell
phone is strictly prohibited on school premises or at school functions. (NRMPS Board Policy Manual 4318)



Penalty – 1st offense, Confiscation, and the parent has to pick the device up after school. Refusal to allow
confiscation will result in a 3 day suspension(OSS).
2nd Offense, Confiscation for 3 school days and parent has to pick up the device up after school on the 3rd
day. Refusal to allow confiscation will result in a 3 day suspension(OSS).
3rd Offense and Subsequent Offenses, Confiscation for 5 school days and the parent has to pick up the
device after school. Refusal to allow confiscation will result in a 3 day suspension(OSS).
BOMB THREAT OR HOAX – No student shall make a report by any means of communication, knowing or
having reason to know the report is false, that there is located on any school premises a device designed to cause
damage or destruction by explosion, blasting or burning. No student shall place on any school premises with intent
26
of perpetrating a hoax, any device that would appear to a reasonable person to be a bomb or similar instrument
capable of causing injury or damage.

Penalty – Mandatory long-term suspension for 365 days. Felony charges will also be brought before
the appropriate law enforcement agencies. Parents may also face civil liability for the actions of
children involved with such threats and hoaxes.
BUS MISCONDUCT – Any student who has discipline issues on the bus at anytime will be given
consequences as follows.

Penalty - 1st offense, Parent Conference. 2nd offense, Bus Suspension up to 5 days. 3rd offense,
Bus Suspension up to 10 days. 4th offense, Bus Suspension for remainder of the year.
CANDY SALES – Students may not sell candy or other items for personal gain or for activities/events that are not
school sponsored.

Penalty – Confiscation of all items. Any items confiscated will be returned to a parent after conference or
the last day of the semester whichever comes first. Refusal to allow confiscation may result in out-ofschool suspension.
CHEATING/PLAGIARISM/FALSIFICATION/FORGERY – Includes the actual giving or receiving of any
unauthorized aid or assistance or the actual giving or receiving of unfair advantage on any form of academic
work/the copying of the language structure, idea, or thought of another and representing it as one’s own original
work/verbal or written statement of untruth/writing or presentation of written documents for fraudulent purposes.

Penalty – Cheating/Plagiarism, 1st offense will result in a “0” on the test, examination or student work
involved and parent notification of the offense. Falsification and Forgery may result in detention or
suspension dependent upon the severity. Habitual offenders may be suspended from school.
COMPUTER ACCESS VIOLATION/SOFTWARE COPYRIGHT LAW VIOLATIONS – Includes
willfully, directly or indirectly, accessing or causing to be accessed any computer, computer system, computer
network, or any component thereof without proper authorization/the unauthorized duplication of computer software,
software printed material, and/or knowingly using pirated computer software.

Penalty – Loss of privileges to have computer(internet) access at school, and/or suspension from school and possible
petition to court
HALL PASS MISUSE – Being in an area other than where the hall pass gives authorization to be or not having a
hall pass when a hall pass is needed.

Penalty – Detention or suspension upon repeated offenses.
DISRESPECT – Any act involving profanity and/or vulgar or abusive language or gestures towards school
personnel, refusing to obey a reasonable request by school personnel, such as refusing to give a name or giving the
wrong name or failure to report to Chill Out properly or in a timely manner when sent.

Penalty – Out-of-school suspension or detention based on the discretion of the administrator dependent
upon the severity and the number of prior discipline incidents.
DISRUPTION (MAJOR) – No student shall cause a substantial and material disruption or obstruction of any
lawful mission, process, or function of the school. Though not inclusive, the following acts are the kind of conduct
considered a disruption:
1.
Using passive resistance, noise, threat, fear, intimidation, coercion, force, violence, or any other form of
conduct, to intentionally cause the disruption, or the urging of another student to engage in such conduct;
2.
Occupying any school building, school grounds, any school bus, or part thereof, maliciously or willfully
depriving others of its use;
3.
Blocking the entrance or exit of any school building, hallway, or room therein and thus maliciously depriving
others of lawful access to and from, or use of, the building, corridor, or room;
27
4.
Setting fire to or otherwise purposely damaging any school building/school property;
5.
Firing, displaying, or threatening use of firearms, explosive, or other weapon on the school premises for any
unlawful purpose prescribed by these rules;
6.
Maliciously or willfully preventing or attempting to prevent, by physical act or otherwise, the covering or
functioning of any school, class, or activity or any lawful meeting of assembly on school campus;
7.
Maliciously or willfully preventing students from attending class or school activity;
8.
Blocking normal pedestrian or vehicular traffic on a school campus;
9.
Maliciously or willfully acting in any manner so as to interfere with any teacher’s ability to conduct a class or
other school duty or activity.

Penalty – Out of school suspension up to 10 days, long-term suspension, expulsion, and petitions filed
in court for any threat to personal safety, serious property damage, or use of threat, fear,
intimidation, coercion, force or violence.
DISRUPTION (MINOR) – Any action or behavior, which prevents teachers from teaching and students from
learning.

Penalty – Detention upon assignment to Chill-Out. Repeated offenses of classroom disruptions, especially
on the same day, shall result in out-of-school suspension.
DRESS CODE
Students are expected to be appropriately dressed at school at all times. Age, development, and body types are
expected to be a part of the student’s good judgment. Reasonable consideration will be given to those students who
for medical reasons or sincerely held religious beliefs request a waiver to this code.
1.
Shorts, skirts, dresses and other clothing shall be modest and of sufficient length. When standing erect, fingers
shall not be able to touch bare skin of the thigh.
2.
Shirts, tops, and dresses shall cover the top of the shoulder and shall not gap below the armpit, or they shall be
worn with a covering top or jacket, or a T-shirt with sleeves underneath. Tube tops are not allowed, even under
another top or jacket. All shirts and tops shall appropriately cover the chest and back and be long enough to
cover the midriff when sitting or standing and shall not be excessively long.
3.
A belt will be worn if the pants have belt loops.
4.
Pants shall not be worn with the waistband below the hipbone.
5.
No leggings shall be worn without a long shirt that appropriately covers the bottom by meeting the fingertip
test.
6.
Undergarments shall not be visible at any time.
7.
No see-through or mesh clothing that will reveal the body or undergarments shall be allowed.
8.
No gang-related clothing, accessories, symbols or intimidating manner of dress, as identified by law
enforcement, shall be allowed.
9.
No adornment that reasonably could be perceived or used as a weapon shall be allowed (chains, spikes, etc.)
10. No head wear (except hijabs and yarmulkes) or sunglasses shall be worn inside the building.
11. No pajama attire, bedroom shoes or slippers allowed, except by permission with doctor’s note only.
12. No bandannas and/or ‘do’ rags shall be allowed.
13. No clothing shall be allowed that depicts violence, profanity, vulgarity or obscenity, or is of a sexual nature or is
deemed otherwise of a disruptive nature.
14. Clothing shall be worn appropriately and belts must be buckled.
Penalty – Student will be sent to Chill-out, recorded as a violation, parents called and change into appropriate dress
or remain in chill-out for the remainder of the day. The following consequences will also occur on multiple offences.
28



2nd Offense – detention
3rd Offense – detention
4th and Subsequent Offenses –Two days of OSS (Out-of-School Suspension).
GAMBLING – Students shall not participate in any unauthorized action or event which relies on chance for the
monetary advantage of one participant at the expense of others.

Penalty – Confiscation of items, detention and parent notification.
GANG RELATED ACTIVITY – Signing, Flagging, Violence, Tagging (Graffiti), and any other activities
as identified by Law Enforcement or School Administration.

Penalty – Consequences could be a verbal warning, depending upon offense, 10-day suspension, restitution
for damages, and/or a recommendation for a long term suspension.
GUM CHEWING – Each teacher will set his/her own policy for allowing students to chew gum.

Penalty – Detention.
HARASSMENT – All students are entitled to work and study in school-related environments that are free of
harassment, i.e. non-physical aggression. RMHS prohibits students from engaging in any form of harassment and
advises students that when evidence of harassment is established, disciplinary actions may be taken. Harassment
may include, but not be limited to; stalking, staring, verbal or written threats or demeaning words, text messaging
that is threatening or demeaning, sending threats through others, and making others feel uncomfortable through
aggressive actions.

Penalty – Out-of-school suspension up to 10 days, long-term suspension, and/or expulsion.
HAZING – It shall be unlawful to engage in or aid and abet in hazing. No group or individual shall require or aid
and abet the requiring of any student to wear abnormal dress or costume on campus, annoy another student by
playing abusive or ridiculous tricks on him/her, frighten, scold, beat, or harass him/her or subject him/her to personal
indignity.

Penalty – Recommendation for long-term suspension. Expulsion, if convicted under NC Criminal
Statute 14-35.
ASSAULTS, THREATS, AND HARASSMENT
Policy Code:4331
The board will not tolerate assaults, threats or harassment from any student. Any student exhibiting such behavior will be
removed from the classroom or school environment for as long as is necessary to provide a safe and orderly environment for
learning. Except when certain consequences for misbehavior are required by law, principals in the elementary grades are directed
to use good judgment and reasonable discretion in determining the appropriate consequence for violation of board policies,
school standards or school rules.
A.
ASSAULT, INJURY
1.
Prohibited Behavior
Students are prohibited from assaulting, physically injuring, attempting to injure or intentionally behaving in
such a way as could reasonably cause injury to any other person. Assault includes engaging in a fight.
2.
Consequences
a.
General Consequences
Violation of this section may result in short-term suspension up to 10 days, long-term suspension,
365 day suspension or expulsion. The procedures for long-term suspension or expulsion are
provided in board policy 4353, Long-Term Suspension, 365 Day Suspension, Expulsion. A
determination of the appropriate consequence will be made in accordance with the provisions of
that policy except as otherwise provided below. Placement in an alternative educational setting
may be made instead of suspension in accordance with policy 3470/4305, Alternative Learning
Programs/Schools, and/or as provided in Sections A.2.b and A.2.c of this policy.
b.
Consequences for Serious Assaults on School Personnel
29
Any student who is found by the superintendent to be at least 13 years of age and to have
physically assaulted and seriously injured school personnel must be removed to an alternative
educational setting in accordance with G.S. 115C-391(d2). If an appropriate alternative
educational setting is not available, the superintendent, upon recommendation of the principal, must
suspend the student for no less than 300 days but no more than 365 days. A student may also be
expelled for assaultive conduct when his or her behavior constitutes a clear threat to the safety of
others. The principal shall make recommendations to the superintendent regarding placement
decisions and the recommended length of the placement or the suspension, within the limits
established by law, based at least in part upon recommendations of the principal of the school that
constitutes the alternative setting. This section does not apply when the student was acting in selfdefense.
c.
Consequences for Certain Physical Assaults of Adults and Students
Upon the recommendation of the principal, the superintendent may remove a student to an
alternative educational setting if the student is at least 13 and has:
1)
2)
3)
physically assaulted a teacher or other adult who is not a student;
physically assaulted another student if the assault is witnessed by
school personnel; or
physically assaulted and seriously injured another student.
This section applies to behavior that occurs on school property or at a school-sponsored or schoolrelated event. It does not apply when a student was acting in self-defense. If no appropriate
alternative educational setting is available, the superintendent may suspend the student for up to
365 days. A student may also be expelled for assaultive conduct when his or her behavior
constitutes a clear threat to the safety of others. The principal will make recommendations to the
superintendent regarding placement decisions and the recommended length of the placement or
suspension, within the limits established by law.
If the student is under age 13, the consequences for assault will be determined in accordance with
the general guidelines in policy 4353, Long-Term Suspension, 365 Day Suspension, Expulsion, and
the school behavior management plan (see policy 4302, School Plan for Management of Student
Behavior).
B.
THREATENING ACTS
1.
Prohibited Behavior
Students are prohibited from directing toward any other person any language that threatens force, violence or
disruption, or any sign or act that constitutes a threat of force, violence or disruption.
2.
C.
Consequences
Violation of this section may result in short-term suspension up to 10 days, long-term suspension or
expulsion. The procedures for long-term suspension or expulsion are provided in policy 4353, Long-Term
Suspension, 365 Day Suspension, Expulsion. A determination of the appropriate consequence will be made
in accordance with the provisions of that policy. Placement in an alternative educational setting may be made
instead of suspension in accordance with policy 3470/4305, Alternative Learning Programs/Schools.
Consequences for bomb and terrorist threats are addressed in policy 4333, Weapons, Bomb Threats, Terrorist
Threats and Clear Threats to Safety, and may include a 365 day suspension.
HARASSMENT
1.
Prohibited Behavior
Students are prohibited from engaging in or encouraging any form of harassment, including bullying against
students, employees or any other individuals on school grounds or at school-related functions. Harassment is
unwanted, unwelcomed and uninvited behavior that demeans, threatens or offends the victim and results in a
hostile environment for the victim. The hostile environment may be created through pervasive or persistent
misbehavior or a single incident if sufficiently severe. Harassment and bullying are further defined in
policies 1735/4025/7235, Harassment Defined, and 1710/4021/7230, Prohibition Against Discrimination,
Harassment and Bullying. Sexual harassment is further defined in policy 1736/4026/7236, Sexual
Harassment Defined.
2.
Consequences
Complaints of harassment will be investigated pursuant to policy 1740/4010, Student and Parent
Grievance Procedure, or policy 1745/4027, Sexual Harassment Complaint Procedure for Students. Incidents
30
of misbehavior that do not rise to the level of harassment may violate policy 4310, Integrity and Civility,
which establishes an expectation that students will demonstrate civility and integrity in their interactions with
others. The consequences for harassment will be more severe than for violations of the standards of integrity
and will be decided pursuant to policy 1745/4027, Sexual Harassment Complaint Procedures for Students.
Consequences may include disciplinary action up to and including expulsion, as appropriate.
Legal References: G.S. 14-33, -34 to -34.2; 115C-47, -276(r), -288, -307, -390, -391
Cross References: Prohibition Against Discrimination, Harassment and Bullying (policy 1710/4021/7230), Harassment Defined
(policy 1735/4025/7235), Sexual Harassment Defined (policy 1736/4026/7236), Student and Parent Grievance Procedures
(policy 1740/4010), Sexual Harassment Complaint Procedures for Students (1745/4027), Alternative Learning Programs/Schools
(policy 3470/4305), School Plan for Management of Behavior (policy 4302), Integrity and Civility (policy 4310), Weapons,
Bomb Threats, Terrorist Threats and Clear Threats to Safety (policy 4333), Long-Term Suspension, 365 Day Suspension,
Expulsion (policy 4353)
Adopted: May 4, 2009
NARCOTICS, ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES, CHEMICALS AND
DRUG PARAPHERNALIA – While on any property controlled by the Nash-Rocky Mount Board of Education
or while engaged in any school-sponsored activity, no student shall: (1) sell or attempt to sell, possess, use, inhale,
ingest, transmit, conspire to transmit or be under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug,
amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, anabolic steroid or any other controlled substance, any alcoholic beverage,
malt beverage, fortified wine or other intoxicating liquor, drug paraphernalia or counterfeit drugs; (2) sell or attempt
to sell, ingest, inhale or otherwise use any substance which, when used by the student with the intention to bring
about a state of exhilaration and/or euphoria, causes the behavior of the student to be a threat to the health and safety
of the student or others, or disturbs or disrupts the orderly operation of any part of the educational process for which
the Board of Education is responsible. (N-RMPS Policy Code 4325)

Penalty – The first violation of this policy by a student for other than selling or attempting to sell shall
result in the 10-day suspension, and the student shall take corrective education and/or counseling. Failure
to meet these requirements shall result in long-term suspension. This suspension will be offered only one
time to students during their school career unless an exception is made by the Superintendent.

Penalty – The first violation of this policy by a student for selling or attempting to sell a substance
prohibited by this policy shall result in long-term suspension.
PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION – No student shall engage in behavior, which is immoral, indecent,
disreputable, or of an overly romantic, affectionate or sexual nature in the school setting.

Penalty – Parent notification, detention or possible suspension from school up to 10 days.
SCHOOL BUS/TRANSPORTATION VIOLATIONS – School transportation service is a privilege, not a
right. Students at all times while riding a school bus or other school vehicle shall observe the directives of the school
bus driver. The following conduct is specifically prohibited:
1.
Delaying the bus schedule;
2.
Fighting, smoking, using profanity or refusing to obey the driver’s instructions;
3.
Tampering with or willfully damaging the school vehicle;
4.
Getting off at an unauthorized stop;
5.
Distracting the driver’s attention by participating in disruptive behavior while the vehicle is in operation;
6.
Failing to observe established safety rules and regulations;
7.
Willfully trespassing upon a school bus;
8.
Violating any other rule of the Student Discipline Code while on the school vehicle.

Penalty – See Bus Misconduct.
31
SEXUAL HARASSMENT – All students are entitled to work and study in school-related environments that are
free of sexual harassment. To this end, the board of education prohibits students from engaging in sexual harassment
and advises students that when evidence of sexual harassment (including, but not limited to, deliberate, unwelcome
touching; suggestions or demands for sexual involvement accompanied by implied or overt promised or preferential
treatment or threats; pressure for sexual activity; continued or repeated offensive sexual flirtations, advances or
repeated verbal remarks about an individual’s body; sexually degrading words used towards an individual; or the
display of sexually suggestive objects or pictures) is established, disciplinary actions may be taken.

Penalty – Out-of-school suspension up to and including long-term suspension or expulsion.
SKIPPING – Is defined as any student who leaves campus without following the proper procedures, leaving a
classroom without permission, not being where you are scheduled to be, and any act of being out of class that does
not involve tardiness, suspension, absent from school, or being called out of class by the appropriate school official.
A student who is already in school and does not report to their assigned class within the first 10 minutes of the class
period and does not have a note from the appropriate school personnel will be considered skipping.

Penalty –
1st offense, Admin conference.

2nd offense, student must return with their parent.

3rd offense and subsequent offenses, up to 2 days out of school suspension.
TARDY TO CLASS/SCHOOL – Not being in your designated classroom at the sound of the tardy tone.
Penalty – Detention assigned by the teacher. Tardies must be given consequences for each class period. Not serving
detention will result in a one day suspension.

1st and 2nd offence, Warning and parent contact.

3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th offences, Meeting parent contact/Attendance contract.

8th offense and subsequent offenses, 2 days Out of School Suspension (OSS).
THEFT OR DAMAGE TO PROPERTY – No student shall steal or attempt to steal or knowingly be in possession of
stolen property or intentionally damage or attempt to damage any school property or private property.
 Penalty –Up to long-term suspension and payment of damages. Appropriate law enforcement authorities may also
be notified
THREATENING ACTIONS/EXTORTION – No student shall direct toward any school employee, toward any other
student or toward any other person within the school context any language, which threatens force or violence, or any sign or
act which constitutes a threat of force or violence.
 Penalty – Out-of-school suspension up to long-term suspension even on first offense. If the threatening actions of a
student(s) are intended to extort money, other personal property or personal services from any other student, or
when any student intimidates or coerces any school employee or other student by any language which threatens
force or violence or any act which constitutes a threat of force or violence, then the first violation of this policy by
the student shall result in long-term suspension for the remainder of the school year and petition to court.
TOBACCO – No student, employee, visitor, guest, spectator, vendor or contractor shall be permitted under any
circumstances to use or display tobacco products in any facility owned or leased or contracted for/by the Nash Rocky
Mount Schools. (Board Policy Manual 4320/5026/7250)
 Penalty – 1st offense, Confiscate and attend tobacco class. 2nd offense, 3 day suspension (OSS).
TRESPASSING – No student shall be on the campus of another school in the Nash-Rocky Mount School system during
the school day without the knowledge and consent of the administration of the school he/she is visiting. No student may
loiter at any school after the close of the school day without specific need or supervision. Any student must leave when
instructed to do so. Any student who has been suspended from school may not appear on school property either during the
school day or at any school function, on or off the premises, during the suspension period without the expressed permission
of an administrator.
32
 Penalty – More days of out-of-school suspension and possible petition to appropriate law enforcement agencies
VIOLENCE – No student shall intentionally hit, shove, scratch, bite, block the passage of or throw objects at a student or
other person. However, a student who is attacked may use reasonable force in self-defense, but only to the extent to free
himself/herself from the attack and notify proper school authorities. A student who exceeds this reasonable force may be
disciplined even though he/she may not have provoked the fight. No student shall take any action or make any comments or
written messages intended to cause others to fight or which might reasonably be expected to result in a fight.
 Penalty – Suspension up to and including long-term suspension and possible petition to court
VERBAL FIGHT ONLY – Administration determines there was no physical contact and the language used could have
been the first steps leading to a fight.
 Penalty – Mediation and Parent Conference REQUIRED on 1st offense. Second offense may result in up to 10 days
suspension. Third offense may result in long-term suspension. A verbal fight that causes a major disruption in any
area of the school will result in an immediate suspension up to 3 days.
FIGHTING INVOLVING PUSHING/SHOVING ONLY – Administration determines no punches were thrown, but
the incident was disorderly and could have led to actual fighting.
 Penalty – Up to 3-days suspension on the 1st offense followed by mediation. Second offense may result in up to 10-
days suspension. Third offense may result in long-term suspension, arrest and/or charges filed.
FIGHTING – Administration determines punches were thrown.
 Penalty – Up to 10-days suspension on the 1st offense followed by mediation. Second offense will result in a 10-days
suspension. Third offense will result in recommendation for long-term suspension and may result in arrest and/or
charges filed.
FIGHTING INVOLVING INJURY – Administration determines the injuries to one or more students involved in the
affray were the direct result of the act of fighting.
 Penalty – 10-days suspension from school with possible recommendation for long-term suspension, arrest and/or
charges filed.
ASSAULT – No student shall cause or attempt to cause physical injury to another student or any other person or school
employee or intentionally behave in such a manner, as could reasonably cause physical injury to any such person.

Penalty – The 1st violation shall result in a minimum of a 10-day suspension from school. A second
violation shall result in a recommendation for long-term suspension for the remainder of the school year.
If the violation involves two or more students assaulting or attacking or causing or attempting to cause
injury to another student or other person or behaving in such a way as could reasonably cause injury to
another student or other person, the violation shall result in a recommendation for long-term suspension
for the remainder of the year, even on the first offense. The first such violation of a student against a
school employee shall also result in a recommendation for long-term suspension the remainder of the
school year. Any assault shall also be reported to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.
ASSAULT INVOLVING A WEAPON – No student shall cause or attempt to cause physical harm to another student or
any other person or school employee or intentionally behave in such a manner as could reasonably cause physical injury to
any such person by the use of or threatening the use of a weapon or other object or thing that could reasonably be
considered a weapon.

Penalty – The first such violation of a student assaulting another person using a weapon shall result in longterm suspension the remainder of the school year. Any such assault shall also be reported to the appropriate
law enforcement authorities.
WEAPONS AND DANGEROUS INSTRUMENTS – No student shall knowingly possess, handle or carry, whether
openly or concealed, any gun, rifle, pistol or other firearm of any kind, or any dynamite cartridge, bomb, grenade, mine or
33
powerful explosive as defined in G.S. 14-284, on any school property, building or bus, school campus, grounds,
recreational area, athletic field or other property owned, used or operated by the board of education or at any school
activity, except as otherwise allowed by G. S. 14-269.2(g).
 Penalty – Suspension from the school system by the superintendent for 365 days
No student shall knowingly possess, handle, or carry, whether openly or concealed, any BB gun, stun gun, air rifle, air
pistol, bowie knife, dirk, dagger, sling shot, leaded cane, switchblade knife, metallic knuckles, razors and razor blades
(except solely for personal shaving), and any sharp-pointed or edged instrument except instructional supplies, unaltered nail
files and clips and tools used solely for preparation of food, instruction and maintenance, on any school property, building
or bus, school campus, grounds, recreational area, athletic field or other property owned, used or operated by the board of
education or at any school activity, except as otherwise allowed by G. S. 14-269.2(g).
 Penalty – The first violation of this policy during the school year by a student may result in up to long-term
suspension. The second violation of this policy during the school year by a student shall result in long-term
suspension for the remainder of the school year. Referral shall be made to the appropriate law enforcement
authority when any student brings a weapon or firearm onto school property or to a school activity.
DETENTION
1.
Students receiving a disciplinary referral or tardy notice specifying detention as the consequence are required to stay for
this detention. Detention begins 10 minutes after dismissal from school and will last 1 hour (2:40pm-3: (2:40pm-3:40pm).
Students will not be admitted after this time. The detention site will be designated at the first of the school year.
2.
When a student receives a detention, he/she is given a 24-hour notice in order to make arrangements for transportation on
the day the detention is to be served.
3.
If a student checks out of school due to illness, doctor’s appointment, etc., he or she is still expected to serve the detention.
Participation in athletics will not be considered an excuse to miss serving detention when it was originally assigned.
4. Students refusing to stay for detention will receive out-of-school suspension in lieu of the detention.
5. If detention is re-scheduled and student refuses to stay, the student will receive a 2 day suspension. For any
given detention, student only get one opportunity to re-schedule.
PENALTY FOR CUMULATIVE DISCIPLINE PROBLEMS
A student who accumulates 5 detentions may be suspended for up to 3 days. A parent conference may be required
before the return to school. A student who is suspended three separate times and/or accumulates ten days of out-ofschool suspension may be recommended for long-term suspension.
STUDENTS SENT TO CHILL OUT TWICE IN ONE DAY
Students sent to Chill Out twice in one day will referred to an administrator for consequences which could be up to a
two day suspension from school (Level 2).
34
Tar River Academy Student Consequence Chart
Student Name:
Regular Ed
Bus
Referrals
Grade:
HR Teacher:
Level 1
Level 2
EC
Tardy
Referrals
Chill Out
st
1
Semester
2nd
Semester
Level 3
Consequence
1 Day ASD or 1-3 Days OSS
1 Day ASD or 1-3 Days OSS
2 Days ASD or 1-3 Days OSS
2 Days ASD or 1-3 Days OSS
2 Days ASD or 1-3 Days OSS
3 Days OSS – Possible Long Term
Recommendation
5-10 Days OSS – or HOPE or
Possible Long Term or expulsion
Recommendation
5-10 Days OSS – or HOPE or
Possible Long Term or expulsion
Recommendation
5-10 Days OSS – or HOPE or
Possible Long Term or expulsion
Recommendation
5-10 Days OSS – or HOPE or
Possible Long Term or expulsion
Recommendation
10 Days OSS – or HOPE or
Possible Long Term or expulsion
Recommendation
The following violations may result in a 10-day suspension regardless of offense number
 Assault on a faculty member, staff member, or volunteer
 Assault on another student, including fighting
 Bomb Threats
 Threats against students, faculty, staff, or volunteers, regardless of intent
 Possession of a weapon or explosive device
 Possession of drugs or alcohol
 Distribution of drugs or alcohol
 Gross Disrespect to a staff member
*Failure to comply with the directions of any school staff member or school official may result in
Out of School Suspension.
*Students can only be assigned to “Chill Out” four times per semester. Upon the 5th “Chill Out” referral,
all infractions will be written as an office referral.
*An accumulation of 11 total referrals across the different levels will also be grounds for a Long-Term
Suspension recommendation.
35
PARKING REGULATIONS
Parking Registration
1.
Vehicle registration may be obtained before and after school. Proper registration of all vehicles that will use the
assigned parking space during the school year is required. Car-pooling is encouraged, as there are a limited number of
spaces.
2.
Seniors have first priority on parking spaces. They have two days in which to obtain their parking passes.
3.
Handicapped students that provide the proper documentation shall be given priority in the issuance of parking permits.
Assignment of parking spaces will be determined by the Traffic Committee to meet the individual’s unique needs.
Requests for handicapped parking should be made in writing to the Traffic Committee.
4. A $20.00 fee will be charged for each parking permit issued. This hanger assigns the student a reserved parking space for the current
year. Students are to keep their receipt all year in case of loss or theft of hanger. The hanger will be replaced upon presentation of
receipt.
Parking Rules/Regulations
Failure to comply with any of the following regulations will result in a parking citation and/or possible loss of
parking space. Parking is a privilege and will be permitted as long as rules and regulations are followed.
1.
Maximum speed limit on campus is 10 mph. All traffic laws apply on campus.
2.
No irregular parking will be permitted. Students should park parallel to one another in the spaces provided.
3.
Students may not park in the faculty/staff area, visitor parks, or in the service drive at any time.
4.
Students may park only in their registered spaces. Parking spaces may be shared if the required information is given on
file.
5.
Parking hangers from previous years must be removed. The current tag must be displayed on the rear view mirror so it
may be clearly seen by anyone standing in front of the car. Students parking in the last row of the parking lot are to
back into their parking space so their parking hanger is visible. If the tag cannot be seen through the darkened front
windshield, the tag may be displayed directly above the vehicle inspection sticker. It is the student’s responsibility to
make sure the tag is visible each time at all times in the student parking lot.
6.
Parking hangers cannot be sold or given to other students. If a student withdraws from school or graduates mid-year,
the parking tag must be returned to school immediately.
7.
Upon arrival at school in the morning, students are to immediately leave the parking lot taking whatever materials they
will need for the day.
8.
Students are not allowed in the parking lot between or during classes or at lunch. If students officially check out of
school during the day, they are to go immediately to their car and leave campus.
9.
Students loitering in the parking lot will receive an after school detention and/or possible revocation of parking permit
and tag.
10. Students who receive parking tickets should pay their tickets as soon as possible. Students are expected to pay any
parking tickets received in a six-week period before receiving their report card. Failure to pay before the end of the
semester will result in the loss of the space for the second semester. The parking space may then be sold to another
student. Students who do not pay parking tickets by the end of the school year forfeit their right to purchase a parking
space in the following year. Seniors are expected to have paid all fines before participation in graduation exercises.
11. Vehicles illegally parked in the student or teacher parking lots after receiving one parking ticket may be towed at the
owner’s expense.
12. Each student is responsible for his/her parking space. If another vehicle parks in the student’s assigned space, it is their
responsibility to report the license plate number of the vehicle and the driver’s name, if known, to an administrator or
Front Office Staff. Failure to report this information may result in the owner of the space having to pay a fine.
13. Other violations include speeding, reckless driving, excessive noise on school property or transporting students for
unauthorized absences.
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Parking or Driving Violation Consequences
1st violation…………Warning ticket
2nd violation…………$10 ticket and conference with an administator
3rd violation…………Loss of parking privileges to be determined by an administrator
Parking or Driving Citations without a parking permit
$20.00 for each Violation and the vehicle may also be towed at the owner’s expense.
Liability and Violation
1.
The school assumes no responsibility for the protection of, or damage to, private property in the exercise of
parking privileges. The school carries no insurance for private vehicles parked on campus. Please lock cars.
2.
According to NC State Law regarding towing of vehicles parking on public school campuses, any person who
violated a rule or regulation concerning parking on school grounds is guilty of a misdemeanor. Any motor
vehicle parked in a parking lot on a school grounds in violation of the rules and regulation adopted may be
removed from school grounds to a place of storage and the registered owner of such vehicle shall become liable
for removal and storage charges.
3. Any student who parks a motor vehicle illegally will face disciplinary action, loss of permit to park on campus,
and may face prosecution according to NC G.S. 115C-46. In addition, the vehicle may be towed without prior
warning and at the owner’s expense and risk.
ATTENDANCE POLICY FOR GRADES 6-12
ATTENDANCE
1.
A student must be in attendance 80 of the 90 days for semester-long courses or 160 days of the 180 days for
year-long courses to receive credit. Combined seminar courses or courses with an A/B schedule combined with
another course will be considered as one year-long course with two credits.
2.
To be considered in attendance, a student must be present in the class for at least 1 hour (2/3s of the class time)
or be involved in an approved authorized school activity. Such activities include: school sponsored field trips;
school-initiated and scheduled activities; athletic events of which the student is a member of the team involved;
and other activities pre-approved by the principal.
3.
If a student is absent in excess of 10 days, documentation related to (a) extended illness under the care of a
doctor, (b) hospitalization for an injury which prevented the student from attending school for more than 10
days, or (c) prearranged absences relating to religious holidays and retreats must be submitted to the principal.
Students missing more than 10 days in any class must submit appropriate documentation for EACH
absence to the principal. When a student is absent from school, the next day the student must bring a
note from a health care provider, court proceedings, etc. explaining the absence; otherwise the absence will not
be considered excused. Academic success is directly related to student attendance; therefore, we encourage
students to attend all classes each school day.
4.
When a student will not be receiving credit for a class due to excessive absences, s/he may appeal to the
attendance committee. Appeals must be submitted within five school days after the student is notified of his/her
failing grade. Appeals will be considered only if they are based on the following reasons: (1) the student had an
extended illness and was under the care of a doctor, and there is a doctor’s statement verifying that illness; (2)
the student was hospitalized for an injury that prevented the student from attending school for more than 10
days; (3) the student’s absences were due to recognition of religious holidays that were prearranged with the
principal; or (4) the student’s absences were due to other reasons that are appropriate for consideration based on
the best judgment of the administration.
5.
Any student who violates the attendance policy in all 4 classes may be withdrawn from school. The
student may appeal this decision within 5 school days after notification.
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NOTES REGARDING ABSENCES
Students should turn in notes to the Data Manager in the main office for processing. Notes should include or have
attached the following:
Student Name
Reason Absent
Days Absent
Parent/Guardian Name
Parent/Guardian Phone #
(Non functional phone numbers will cause the validity of notes to be questioned)
Parent/Guardian Signature
MAKING UP WORK
When absent, a student will be allowed to make up the work that was missed. To determine what assignments must
be made up, students are responsible for contacting their teachers within 2 days after returning to school. It shall be
the teacher’s responsibility to inform any absent student of work missed upon the students return to school. The
student shall be entitled to twice the number of school days absent to make up for full credit all work missed with a
maximum of 10 days allowed. This formula includes time for testing arranged by the student at the convenience of
the teacher. Any required work missed by the student while absent that is not made up will result in a zero for that
assignment.
Please note: Extended periods of absence (i.e. extended illness, accident or pregnancy) will require the student
and/or parent to arrange for work to be completed during the extended absence. Prior arrangements should be made
through the Student Services department for work to be exchanged between the teacher and the student. A
suspended student may make up all work missed under the same provisions as listed above. If suspension exceeds 5
days, students and/or parents may call Student Services to get assignments to make up during the suspension.
CREDIT RESTORATION PROCEDURES FOR “FF”
Course credit will be withheld if more than ten (10) absences exist in a semester-long course or more than
twenty (20) absences exist in a year-long course. Students who wish to have course credit reinstated must adhere
to the following procedures: At the beginning of the next semester, the student must meet with the Assistant
Principal in charge of attendance for an Attendance Contract.
1.
The Attendance Contract will guarantee the FF (Failure due to Attendance) will be removed from the
contracted subject(s) at the end of the contract semester provided no more than 10 absences occur in any
class for any reason during the semester.
2.
All absences will count toward the number of absences to satisfy the contract for FF removal.
TRUANCY
It is mandatory for the students to be in class at all times unless authorized to be out of class by school personnel.
Students who are known to be out of class or off campus without proper authorization by the school or permission
from the parent will be considered skipping and will be dealt with accordingly. Disciplinary measures may range
from after school detention to out-of-school suspension.
Documented “skipping” of classes will automatically negate any appeals for waiver of the attendance policy
with regards to the class “skipped”.
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