Student Handbook 2020-2021

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Student Handbook 2020-2021
Student Handbook 2020-2021
Student Handbook 2020-2021
Administration and Staff

Principal: Mark Sims
Assistant Principal: Vanessa Rhoden
Assistant Principal: Terrance Alridge, Ph.D.
Assistant Principal: Denise Fowler
Assistant Administrator: Bryan Ashley
Assistant Administrator: Roderick Henderson
Assistant Administrator: Travis Robinson
IB and Magnet Director: Sonja Merriwether-Hawkins, Ed.D
Student Activities Director: Regina Garmany-Cherry
Athletic Director: Gary Fulmer

Bell Schedule 2020-2021

Phase 1 Schedule A & B Days (M, T, Th, F)

Office Hours/Early Bird 8:00 – 8:40
1st Block 8:45 – 10:00
Brain Break – 10:05 – 10:20
2nd Block 10:25 – 11:40
Lunch 11:40 – 12:10
3rd Block 12:15 – 1:30
Brain Break – 1:35 – 1:50
4th Block 1:55 – 3:10
Meeting/Collaboration Time 3:15 – 4:00

Phase 1 Wednesday/Late Start Schedule A & B Days

No Early Bird Classes
Office Hours 9:05 – 9:35
1st Block 9:40 – 10:45
2nd Block 10:50 – 11:55
Lunch 12:00 – 12:30
3rd Block 12:35 – 1:40
Independent Learning Time 1:45 – 2:15
4th Block 2:20 – 3:25
Meeting/Collaboration Time – 3:30 – 4:00

*Future Schedules will be posted on the school’s website as we move to Phase II and Phase III.

Phase II Information:
As information regarding COVID19 is updating frequently, please visit www.richland2.org and
www.richland2.org/RNH for information regarding the different phases, health and safety
guidance, and policies and procedures that have been updated or adapted due to meeting
health and safety requirements. This includes information that is in the handbook.

Safety Reminders
   • Wear your ID card.
   •   Do not prop doors open.
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Student Handbook 2020-2021
•   Report unusual people, packages, or circumstances to nearest employee.
   •   Register your vehicle on campus and keep it locked.
   •   Keep appropriate items locked in lockers. Textbooks are not to be kept in PE or athletic
       lockers. Do not share lockers.
   •   Do not smoke or vape on campus.
   •   Know and practice emergency procedures as provided by the school.
   •   Remember: buildings are supervised from 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. only.

   •   Remember: surveillance video cameras operate on campus
       Use appropriate emergency numbers if needed:
       o District Security: 803-736-8756
       o Sheriff’s Department: 576-3000
       o SROs: Deputy Timber 699-2800, EXT. 79804 and Deputy Dorn EXT. 79873

Richland Northeast Alma Mater

We stand proud for the Cavaliers;
We raise thy name for all to hear.
Together we build a strong foundation
To pass on to future generations.
Northeast, we’re proud to carry
Your colors of orange and blue
And strive each day to remain loyal, faithful, and true. We’ll work to uphold the school tradition
And as the years pass by
Through good and bad we’ll bear the name
Of Richland Northeast High

Cavalier Fight Song

Mighty Richland Northeast High Founded in greatness, willing to try Spirit on the outside, pride
within Determined to fight, determined to win
FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT!
Proud of our colors, orange & blue, Fight to the end is what we will do. In our hearts we hold the
key to the glory of Northeast High!

Ethics Code for Richland School District Two

In an effort to promote a positive environment for learning and living:
I will respect others’ property and heritage while maintaining my self-respect and my integrity.
I will be responsible for all of my actions and their consequences, repressing violence and
exercising self-discipline.
I will contribute to the positive learning environment for others and myself.

Mission Statement:

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Richland Northeast High School, in partnership with the community, will ensure challenging
academic opportunities that advance positive individual growth and prepare responsible global
citizens for a post-secondary education, military, or career readiness.

Vision Statement:

Every student at Richland Northeast will graduate prepared to be enrolled, enlisted, or
employed.

Table of Contents
ACADEMICS ................................................................................................................................................... 9
   State High School Diploma........................................................................................................................ 9
   Graduation ................................................................................................................................................ 9
        Senior Information .................................................................................................................. 9
   Graduation Policies ................................................................................................................................... 9
        General Information ................................................................................................................ 9
        Highest Honor Graduates ........................................................................................................ 9
        Junior Marshals ..................................................................................................................... 10
        Ushers ................................................................................................................................... 10
        Ceremony .............................................................................................................................. 10
        Dress ..................................................................................................................................... 10
        Diplomas ............................................................................................................................... 10
        Graduation Senior Soloists ................................................................................................... 10
   Career Prep Certificate Requirements .................................................................................................... 10
   Virtual High School (online courses) ....................................................................................................... 11
   Examination Policy .................................................................................................................................. 11
   Make-up/Late Work ................................................................................................................................ 11
   Test Postponement ................................................................................................................................. 12
   Textbooks ................................................................................................................................................ 12
   School Counseling Services ..................................................................................................................... 12
        General Information .............................................................................................................. 12

                                                                              4
Counselors............................................................................................................................. 12
        Grade Classification .............................................................................................................. 13
        Grading Scale ........................................................................................................................ 14
   Special Services ....................................................................................................................................... 15
   Transcripts............................................................................................................................................... 15
   College Applications ................................................................................................................................ 15
   Auditing a Course .................................................................................................................................... 15
   Credit for a Repeated Course.................................................................................................................. 15
   Class Rankings ......................................................................................................................................... 15
   Testing ..................................................................................................................................................... 15
ATTENDANCE .............................................................................................................................................. 17
   General Rules and Regulations Attendance Policies and Laws............................................................... 17
   Lawful Absences...................................................................................................................................... 17
   Unlawful Absences .................................................................................................................................. 17
   Consequences ......................................................................................................................................... 17
   Student Responsibility When Absent ..................................................................................................... 17
   Tardy Policy and Procedures ................................................................................................................... 17
   Tardy Consequences ............................................................................................................................... 17
   Sign-in and Sign-out Procedures ............................................................................................................. 18
   Early Dismissal......................................................................................................................................... 18
ATHLETICS ................................................................................................................................................... 18
   Interscholastic Eligibility Requirements .................................................................................................. 18
   Requirements for Participation............................................................................................................... 18
        Birth Certificate .................................................................................................................... 18
        Physical Examination............................................................................................................ 18
        Richland District 2 Sports Health Form................................................................................ 18
        Fees and Debts ...................................................................................................................... 18
   Academic Eligibility ................................................................................................................................. 19
   Students with Disabilities........................................................................................................................ 19
   Athletic Participation Fee........................................................................................................................ 19
   Risk of Participation/Warning ................................................................................................................. 19
   Athletic Code of Conduct: ....................................................................................................................... 19
   Athlete Substance Abuse ........................................................................................................................ 20
DISCIPLINE ................................................................................................................................................... 20

                                                                                5
Discipline — Student Rights .................................................................................................................... 20
   Code of Conduct – Code AR JICDA-R Issued 12/17 ................................................................................. 20
       Level One, Two, and Three Offenses: ................................................................................. 20
   Harassment, Intimidation, and/or Bullying: Code JICFAA, issued 12/06 ................................................ 23
   Prohibition of Drug and Alcohol use: School Board Policy JICH.............................................................. 23
   Smoking/Tobacco Products .................................................................................................................... 24
   Gang and Gang-Related Activity ............................................................................................................. 24
   Physical Conflicts..................................................................................................................................... 25
   Weapons ................................................................................................................................................. 25
   Suspension/Expulsion Policy ................................................................................................................... 25
FOR YOUR INFORMATION ........................................................................................................................... 25
   Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act Notification of Rights .......................................................... 25
   Crimeline ................................................................................................................................................. 26
   Electronic Communications Devices ....................................................................................................... 26
   ECD Consequences.................................................................................................................................. 27
       Please review: Board Policy JICJ Use of Electronic Communication Devices in School ... 27
   Fees and Debts ........................................................................................................................................ 28
   Food ........................................................................................................................................................ 28
   Fraternities, Sororities, and Other Secret Organizations ........................................................................ 28
   Grievances and Complaints .................................................................................................................... 28
   How to Reach Us ..................................................................................................................................... 28
   Identification Card Policy ........................................................................................................................ 28
   Illness ...................................................................................................................................................... 29
   Locks and Lockers ................................................................................................................................... 29
       General Information .............................................................................................................. 29
   Loitering .................................................................................................................................................. 29
   Lunch Privileges ...................................................................................................................................... 29
   Cafeteria Regulations .............................................................................................................................. 30
   Free and Reduced-Price Meal Program .................................................................................................. 30
   Money ..................................................................................................................................................... 30
   Parking Regulations Student Parking ...................................................................................................... 30
       Parking Rewards for Eligible Students ................................................................................. 30
       Parking Violations ................................................................................................................ 30
                                                                                6
Parking Rules ........................................................................................................................ 31
   Passes ...................................................................................................................................................... 31
   Political Campaign Materials .................................................................................................................. 31
   Release of Student Information .............................................................................................................. 31
   Restricted Items ...................................................................................................................................... 32
   Security Policy ......................................................................................................................................... 32
   Student Dress Code................................................................................................................................. 32
        High school/middle school ................................................................................................... 32
        Dress Code Consequences .................................................................................................... 33
   Student Rights ......................................................................................................................................... 34
   Sexual Harassment.................................................................................................................................. 34
        Types of Behavior which Constitute Sexual Harassment of Students.................................. 35
        Types of Behavior which Constitute Inappropriate Conduct of a Sexual Nature with
        Students ................................................................................................................................. 35
        Behavior Prohibited of all Employees and Students............................................................. 36
        Reporting and Response Procedures ..................................................................................... 36
   Solicitation and Advertising .................................................................................................................... 38
   Substitute Teachers ................................................................................................................................ 38
   Student Messages/Contact ..................................................................................................................... 38
   Visitors .................................................................................................................................................... 38
   Vehicle Security....................................................................................................................................... 38
   Parental Accountability ........................................................................................................................... 38
HEALTH SERVICES ........................................................................................................................................ 39
   Illness ...................................................................................................................................................... 39
   Students with Special Health-Care Needs .............................................................................................. 39
   Individual Health Care Plans or Individual Health Plans (IHPs)............................................................... 39
   Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) .................................................................. 39
   Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) .................................................................................... 39
   Medical Homebound Instruction ............................................................................................................ 40
   Medicines ................................................................................................................................................ 40
TECHNOLOGY .............................................................................................................................................. 40
   1TWO1 Computing at RNH ..................................................................................................................... 40
        1TWO1 Student Computing Goals ....................................................................................... 40
   RSD2 Responsible Use Policy .................................................................................................................. 41

                                                                                7
Bringing Personal Devices to School ....................................................................................................... 41
   Discipline Procedures for Technology Infractions .................................................................................. 41
   Information and Technology Center ....................................................................................................... 41
       General Information .............................................................................................................. 41
       Technology Security Procedures .......................................................................................... 42
       Equipment Circulation .......................................................................................................... 42
STUDENT ACTIVITIES ................................................................................................................................... 43
   Eligibility Requirements for Participation in Activities ........................................................................... 43
   Clubs and Organizations ......................................................................................................................... 43
   Dual Office Holding ................................................................................................................................. 43
   Chartering New Organizations ................................................................................................................ 43
   Poster/Advertisements ........................................................................................................................... 43
   Fund Raising ............................................................................................................................................ 43
   Student Government / Activities ............................................................................................................ 43
       General Information .............................................................................................................. 43
       Criteria for Student Government Office ............................................................................... 43
       Elections ................................................................................................................................ 43
   Junior/Senior Prom ................................................................................................................................. 44
   Criteria for Home Coming Queen, Miss Richland Northeast, Coming Home King, and Mr. Richland
   Northeast ................................................................................................................................................ 44
TRANSPORTATION ...................................................................................................................................... 44
   Rules of Conduct for School Bus Transportation .................................................................................... 45
   Bus Stop Safety Rules .............................................................................................................................. 45
   Consequences ......................................................................................................................................... 46

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ACADEMICS
State High School Diploma
The South Carolina State High School Diploma is regulated by the South Carolina State Board of Education.
A State High School Diploma from Richland School District Two is based on the satisfactory completion of
24 Carnegie units. To qualify for a State High School Diploma in Richland School District Two, a student
must meet the following requirements:
Language Arts 4.0
U.S. History and Constitution 1.0
Economics 0.5
Government 0.5
Other Social Studies 1.0
Mathematics 4.0
Science 3.0
Physical Education or ROTC 1.0
Health Education 0.5
World Language or Career and Technology Education 1.0
Computer Science Electives 1.0

Total units for Diploma = 24 units

Many four-year colleges require two or three units of the same world language for admission.
Freshmen, Sophomores and Juniors must register for minimum of 4 instructional blocks per year. Seniors
must register for 2 instructional blocks, not including School-to-Work.

Graduation
Senior Information
For a qualified senior to participate in graduation exercises, the School Counseling Office must receive a
completed application for graduation by the designated date. This form contains information about the
student and graduation requirements as well as a request for the student’s future plans. This form is not
necessary for those who plan to graduate in the summer. Students who are qualified to graduate in the
spring but do not complete the form will not participate in graduation exercises and will receive their diploma
with the summer graduating class. To participate in graduation exercises, students must have earned all
24 units specified for graduation by the State Department of Education.

In addition, seniors who wish to participate in the graduation ceremony must clear all accumulated financial
obligations and school debts by Friday, May 21, 2021, at 3:50 p.m. The school will issue diplomas and
transcripts when all debts are paid. Cav Cards will be issued in May to all seniors who are eligible to walk
at graduation. Students must clear school debts before picking up their Cav Cards.

Graduation Policies
General Information
Graduation rehearsal will take place on the day of the Senior Assembly. Attendance is mandatory.
Participants must attend to take part in the ceremony.
Graduation participants must purchase a “grad pack” (cap, gown, tassel, hood, and diploma cover) from
the school-approved vendor. Seniors will receive order information in the fall.

Highest Honor Graduates
Valedictorian: Student with the highest academic standing based on eight semesters of work will graduate
with Highest Honors.
Salutatorian: Student with the second-highest academic standing based on eight semesters of work will
graduate with Highest Honors.

                                                      9
Other High Honor graduates: Remaining top 10% of graduating class, based on eight semesters of work.
Graduating class number, for the purpose of determining Honor graduates, will be set in April.

Junior Marshals
Junior Marshals will be members of the top 25 members of the Junior class, based on academic standing
through five semesters, with a clear discipline record. A candidate for Junior Marshal may not be in a
performing group during the graduation ceremony. Marshal sashes will be issued only to those who serve
at a marshal function.

Ushers
Ushers will be members of the top 10% of the sophomore class, based on academic standing through three
semesters with a clear discipline record.

Ceremony
Seniors will elect two class speakers who have a minimum grade average of 80 for the semester preceding
graduation, no school debts, and who are eligible to graduate as projected at eight semesters; students
must also have had no Out of School suspensions and/or expulsions for all eight semesters. Each student
speaker will be limited to two minutes. The top two honor graduates also will speak. The Senior class
president will preside at graduation.

Dress
   •     All graduates must wear regulation cap, gown, and stole. Caps, gowns, and stoles must not be
         altered in any way.
   •     Students will not be permitted to carry or wear any signs or slogans.
   •     All participants must wear dress shoes.
   •     All young men must wear ties and white dress shirts with a collar.
   •     The administration reserves the right to prohibit participation in graduation when it deems a
         student’s attire unsuitable. Graduation attire will be discussed thoroughly during graduation
         practice.

Diplomas
   •     A student officially graduates only when he or she receives a diploma.
   •     Diplomas will be issued after the graduation exercises.

Graduation Senior Soloists
  To audition, Seniors must have paid all school debts and students must also have had no Out of School
  suspensions and/or expulsions for all eight semesters. Applications for Senior soloists will be available
  about one month before graduation. Both vocalists and instrumentalists are invited to apply. Information:
  The Student Activities Director, Student Activities Office.

Career Prep Certificate Requirements

The Career Prep student must:
  •    Pass all Career Prep classes and competencies
  •    Pass computer and health classes
  •    Meet state attendance requirements
  •    Complete graduation portfolios
  •    Master assigned Work Key scores
  •    Be employed on a job and have accumulated at least 200 hours of successful work at that job.

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Virtual High School (online courses)
Students are expected to begin an online class within the first week of enrollment for the class and must
complete online courses by the deadline. Students who fail to start a class on time or fail to show progress
may be withdrawn by administration. Students who do not finish an online course will receive an F. See
your School Counselor for course offerings.

Examination Policy
All students are required to take exams at the end of each semester in every course. There is one exception:
at the end of any course, the subject teacher has the option of allowing any senior who has a C average or
above and no more than 8 tardies to exempt the final exam (unless stated otherwise in the teacher’s
syllabus). No student can exempt state-required exams.

Important! Any student missing final examinations must have administrative approval from the Assistant
Principal for Curriculum and Instruction to make them up. Acceptable reasons for makeup exams are (1)
medical emergency, (2) death in the family, (3) religious holiday, and (4) court subpoena. All students who
miss an exam with an unauthorized absence will receive a zero on the exam.

Make-up/Late Work
A student who has an excused absence, including one for participation in field studies or school events,
can make up missed class work and homework, but the student is responsible for making arrangements
with the teacher within three days of returning to school. If a student is absent with an excuse on a day that
a previously announced assignment is due, the assignment is considered due on the first day the student
returns. If a student misses a test, arrangements must be made the first day the student returns to make
up the test at a time convenient for the teacher.
Students who receive a suspension may not make up work if the suspension is due to an academic
infraction. Students who receive a suspension for other infractions must arrange with their teachers to make
up the work within the time allowed. Failure to do so will result in a zero for that work.

Students recommended for expulsion, and awaiting a hearing, have the right to receive work from their
teachers during the disciplinary process. Teachers will send work to the main office receptionist to be picked
up by the parent or guardian.

Each teacher determines the grade penalty for submitting assignments late. The teacher’s policy
concerning late work can be found in the course syllabus.

Retake/ReDo Policy
At all times, it is the students’ responsibility to initiate the retake/redo by completing the
retake/redo request form and submitting it to the teacher.

Students will have the opportunity to retake/redo one assessment per quarter (summative assessment),
per course.
    • A grade of 70 or higher indicates mastery of a concept; therefore, students may only
        redo/retake one assessment for which mastery was not achieved.
    • The highest score a student may earn on a ReTake/ReDo assessment is 70.

Steps to Retake/Redo an Assessment:
   • Complete the ReTake/ReDo Request Form. A parent signature is REQUIRED for the request to
       be honored. This MUST be done before attending tutoring or retesting.
   • Attend a minimum of one tutoring session.
           o Tutoring is offered after school from 3:45 to 4:45 pm in the Media Center each Monday-
              Thursday.
           o Arrange a tutoring session with your classroom teacher.

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•   Within one week (5 school days) of the posted grade, retake the assessment/turn in the redo
        assignment on the designated day.
            o Retakes are given before school, after school, or during lunch.
            o Arrangements for before or after school drop off and pick up are the responsibility of the
                student and their parents.

Note: Alternate assignments may be required at the teacher’s discretion as some scenarios are difficult
to replicate. For example: computer lab assignments, science lab experiments, guest speakers, projects,
formal essay, etc.

Example:
Student A scores a 50 on the Unit 1 test.
The student is provided the test score on September 14.
Student A completes the ReTake/ReDo Request Form and submits it to the teacher. Student A has until
September 21 to complete the ReTake or to submit the ReDo assessment.

Test Postponement
Students who have three or more major tests assigned on the same day, may request to defer an exam so
that no more than two tests will be taken on the one day by emailing the Assistant Principal of Instruction,
Mrs. Vanessa Rhoden at vrhoden@richland2.org at least one full day in advance.

Textbooks
Books will be issued at the beginning of each semester. Students who lose books should see the
Administrator(s) in charge of textbooks. All seniors must have their textbooks in by the last day of
Senior Exams. Seniors not turning books in or turning in damaged books will be charged the replacement
cost of the book and will not be able to participate in the graduation ceremony unless the fees are paid
before graduation. All underclassmen books must be turned in by the last day of school. Books not turned
in by the last weekday in June will be assessed a $20.00 per book late/restocking fee. Students who have
damaged or not returned books by the second week of the next school year will be turned over to
a collection agency and will be assessed the cost of the book(s) plus the $20.00 per book late fee.
If a student pays for a book and later finds it, he/she will not receive any type of credit or refund. The money
will be used to purchase replacement books.
Failure to return or pay for textbooks will result in the revocation of privileges which include second semester
junior and senior off-campus lunch and parking passes.

School Counseling Services
General Information
Counselors are available to assist and advise students about career choices, schoolwork, course selection,
personal problems, and college. The School Counseling Office is open 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. on school days.
Students may see a counselor before or after school, during lunchtime, or with a scheduled appointment.
An appointment system guarantees that a counselor will see a student within a 24-hour period. Parents are
responsible for contacting the counselor concerning their child’s course curriculum.
With the first day of enrollment as the base line, students who withdraw from a course within 5 days in a
90-day course or 10 days in a 180-day course will do so without penalty. Students who withdraw from a
course after the specified time (5 days in a 90- day course or 10 days in a 180-day course) shall be assigned
a WF, and the F will be calculated in the student’s overall grade point average. The 5- and 10-day limitations
for withdrawing from a course without penalty do not apply to course or course-level changes initiated by
the administration.

Counselors
Pat Blake (Students with last names beginning A-Da)
Tanya Amoako (Students with last names beginning De-Jam)
Corey Wright (Students with last names beginning Jan-Pa)

                                                      12
Lonnie Brooks (Students with last names beginning Pe-To)
Director, Dr. Yolanda Smith-Charlestin (Students with last names beginning Tr-Z)
College & Career Information Specialist – Cynthia James
Career Development Facilitator – Candi McCall
Career Development Facilitator – Tavares Joseph
CATE - Work Based Learning Coordinator - Michael Sumter

Grade Classification:
Class Number of Credits Required:
Freshman: Promotion from eighth grade
Sophomore: 5 (including English I and one math unit)
Junior: 11 (including two units of English and two units of math)
Senior: 17 (including three units of English, three units of math and projecting graduation

                                                     13
Grading Scale:

Honors and Advanced Placement courses are designed to better prepare a student for successful academic
achievement in college. Their curricula are greater in depth, more difficult, and require more individual work
on the part of the student for successful completion. For these reasons, these higher-level courses are
weighted heavier in determining the grade point average. Enrollment in weighted courses requires teacher’s
approval.

                                                     14
Special Services
Parents who think that their child has some type of disability and is in need of special education, related
services, or accommodations should contact their child’s school counselor, the school psychologist, or the
Intervention Assistance Team (IAT) coordinator as soon as possible. It is the parent’s responsibility to bring
to the attention of the school any serious physical handicap their child may have.

Transcripts
Official transcripts are processed via Parchment, an online electronic transcript processing system.
Students may set up an account by visiting www.parchment.com. Official transcripts must be mailed by
our School Counseling Department. All other transcripts are unofficial. It is the student’s responsibility to
request transcripts.

College Applications
Seniors who want their college applications mailed by the School Counseling Department must turn in the
applications along with addressed envelopes containing appropriate postage.

Auditing a Course
Auditing may be allowed once the student has met graduation requirements in that content discipline and
if space is available in the course. The course cannot be taken as a preview nor, once audited, can the
course be taken for credit. Any pre-requisites for the audited course must be met. Students who audit AP
or IB courses will need to pay for the corresponding tests where applicable and the auditing of EOC courses
will not be allowed. The same guidelines for dropping the audited course or adding it as a credit course will
apply. The principal has discretion in cases of auditing in any other circumstances.

Credit for a Repeated Course
Students in grades nine through twelve may retake a course at the same level of difficulty if space is
available in the course. Retaking the course means that the student completes the entire course again. If
the course being taken has an EOCEP, the EOCEP must be taken. The student’s transcript will reflect all
courses taken and the grades earned. However, only one course attempt and the highest grade earned for
the course will be calculated in the GPA.

The student may retake the course either during the current school year or during the next school year, but
no later than the next school year. In addition, the student must retake the course before he/she has enrolled
in the next sequential course (unless granted approval by the school administration to do so).

A student who has taken a course for a Carnegie unit prior to his/her ninth grade year may retake that
course regardless of the grade earned. A student who retakes a high school credit course from middle
school must complete it before the beginning of the second year of high school. In this case, only the highest
grade will be used in figuring the student’s GPA.

Class Rankings
Class rankings (based on grade point ratios) are computed for each class at the end of the tenth grade, the
eleventh grade, and the twelfth grade.

Testing
College Board Examinations — PSAT & SAT
The PSAT will be administered on October 14, 2020 – School Day

Many colleges require College Board (www.collegeboard.com/) Exam scores.

                                                     15
SAT

The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) measures a student’s basic verbal and mathematical abilities.
The Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT) is open to all students who would like to take a nationwide
test similar to the SAT. Taken in the Junior (eleventh-grade) year, the PSAT is the test whose score
determines eligibility for a National Merit Scholarship. Check with your counselor for the location of the test.

Dates for the 2020-2021 SAT:

September 26, 2020
October 3, 2020
November 7, 2020
December 5, 2020
March 13, 2021
May 8, 2021
June 5, 2021

PSAT/ SAT Workshops

During the year, Richland Northeast brings in a test-preparation tutor to work with students on test-taking
strategies and tips to improve PSAT and SAT scores. There usually is a fee for these workshops.

American College Testing — ACT

Most colleges and universities accept the ACT exam scores for admission. The ACT (www.actstudent.org/)
measures a student’s educational development in English, mathematics, social studies, and natural
sciences.

Dates for the 2020-2021 ACT:

September 12 and 13, 2020
September 19, 2020
October 10, 2020
October 17, 2020
October 24 and 25, 2020
December 12, 2020
February 6, 2021
April 17, 2021
June 12, 2021
July 17, 2021

International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement Examinations

Advanced Placement (AP) Examinations will take place May 3rd – 14th. International Baccalaureate (IB) will
take place April 29th – May 21st. Only students who are enrolled in an IB/AP class may take that particular
exam. All IB/AP students are required to take the IB/AP Exam. Failure to do so will result in a final exam
grade of zero, and the student will be charged the full price of the exam. Students who leave the test in the
middle of the exam will incur the same penalty.

End-of-Course Testing

End-of-course tests will be administered to all students enrolled in Algebra I, English II, U.S. History, and
Biology I. The test is 20% of the final course grade. All students are required to take the Algebra I, English
II, and Biology I End of Course test by the end of their third year of high school.

                                                      16
ATTENDANCE
General Rules and Regulations Attendance Policies and Laws
Students may miss no more than ten (10) days in a year-long course and five (5) days in a semester course.
This includes all absences documented with a medical note, funeral notice, out-of-school suspension, or
parent excuse. (Board Policy JH Student Absences and Excuses)
After an absence, the student must submit a medical or parent note to the school within five (5) days. After
five (5) days, the absence may be considered unlawful.

Lawful Absences
  •     Student illness if attendance would endanger the student’s health or the health of others. (If a
  student’s illness causes an absence of more than five days, the parent may request homebound
  instruction. The parent must submit the proper form from a medical practitioner.)
  •     Illness or death in the immediate family.
  •     A recognized religious holiday of the student’s faith.
  •     Medical or dental appointments and court appearances.
  •     Class suspensions.
  •     Participation in school-related activities that have prior approval from the school administration

Unlawful Absences
Any absence that is not excused under the listed conditions.

Consequences
    •   Three consecutive or five total unlawful absences are truancy. The school will notify the parent/legal
        guardian that an Attendance Improvement Plan must be implemented.
    •   If unlawful absences continue, the school may make a referral to the Richland County Family Court.

Student Responsibility When Absent
When absent from a class for any reason, students are responsible for the following before being readmitted
to class:
     • Prior to returning to the class or classes missed, the student must go to the Attendance Office with
         a written explanation from his or her parent, guardian, or physician.
     •
If a student does not have proper documentation explaining the absence, it will be recorded as an unlawful
absence. The student will have five school days to bring in a proper excuse.

Tardy Policy and Procedures
The tardy policy helps ensure a minimum of interruptions in the educational process in each classroom.
Students who report more than forty-five minutes late to a block class will be marked absent.

Tardy Consequences
Students not in their assigned classrooms by the late bell are considered tardy. Students are to report
directly to class and the teacher will mark them tardy in PowerSchool. Students who are more than 15
minutes late should report to the Attendance Office to receive a pass to class. Students who are tardy to
class without an excuse will receive consequences that may include warnings.

Tardy Policy:
    •   1st - 3rd Tardy – Warning/Phone Call
    •   4th – 7th Tardy - Detention

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•   8th – 10th Tardy – Saturday School
    •   11th or more – Suspension
             o 8 or more tardies - Loss of Privilege (Off-Campus Lunch, Parking, Pep Rallies,
                 Senior Exam Exemptions)

Sign-in and Sign-out Procedures
    •   Students arriving late to school must report to the Attendance Office.
    •   Students will receive a tardy pass to class and receive a consequence (see above). Only students
        providing a medical note will not be assigned consequences.
    •   Students may appeal to their administrator within two school days.
    •   Students may not sign out after 3 p.m.
    •   To sign out a student, the parent/guardian must present a valid state-issued driver’s license or
        state-issued identification card for a background check via the Ident-a-Kid system.

Early Dismissal
Students with early dismissal on their schedule sign an agreement stating the rights and responsibilities of
this privilege. Students with scheduled early dismissal must leave campus immediately after being
dismissed. Early-dismissal students who have not secured a ride home will have their privileges revoked,
be assigned to study hall. Students with scheduled early dismissal who remain on or return to campus are
in violation of this policy. Early-dismissal students may not ride the bus home. Students may return for after-
school activities only following the 3:40 dismissal bell.

ATHLETICS
Student Athletic Policy Handbook

Interscholastic Eligibility Requirements
The South Carolina State High School League and School Board Policy IDF & IDF-R of Richland School
District Two determine athletic and extracurricular eligibility. An after- school tutorial program is available to
help all students and may benefit students who are trying to improve their grades to achieve eligibility.

Requirements for Participation

Birth Certificate:
Each student must submit to the athletic director a copy of a certified state, county or city birth certificate in
which the student was born. This is required only once in high school.

Physical Examination:
A yearly physical examination is required. The physical exam must be on the South Carolina High School
League physical form and completed by a licensed physician, physician’s assistant, or nurse practitioner
and submitted to the athletic department prior to participation. The physical covers all sports for the entire
school year (through June 30) provided the examination occurred on or after April 1 of the previous school
year.

Richland District 2 Sports Health Form:
A completed sports health form must be submitted to the athletic department prior to participation. The
form must be signed by the student athlete and parent/guardian. The form includes emergency contact
information, parent permission to participate and assumption of risk, release of medical information,
concussion acknowledgement, and consent for medical treatment.

Fees and Debts:

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All previous year’s fees and debts must be paid prior to participation.

Academic Eligibility:
Middle school students (seventh and eighth graders) and first-semester ninth graders are eligible to
participate on high school teams during the first semester if they were promoted academically (not by social
promotion). Students in the seventh and eighth grades must be doing satisfactory work at the end of the
first semester to be eligible second semester. (Second-semester ninth graders must meet League and
District academic regulations). For students in grades ten – twelve (including repeat ninth graders) to be
eligible by High School League regulations in the first semester, they must have passed a minimum of five
Carnegie units applicable toward a high school diploma during the previous year and achieved an overall
passing average. At least two units must have been passed during the second semester or summer school.

To be eligible during the second semester, the student must meet one of the following two conditions:

  •     If the student met first-semester eligibility requirements, then he/she must pass the equivalent of 4,
        1⁄2 units during the first semester.

  •     If the student did not meet first-semester eligibility requirements, then he/she must pass the
        equivalent of 5, 1/2units during the first semester.

In addition to these High School League requirements, all students must meet academic standards set forth
by Richland School District Two.

Students with Disabilities:
  A.    Students diagnosed with disabilities and being served in a non-diploma program shall be
        considered eligible for participation in interscholastic activities if he/she is successfully meeting the
        requirements of his/her Individual Education Plan (IEP).

  B.    Students diagnosed with disabilities and being served in a program leading to a state high school
        diploma must meet all eligibility requirements previously stated for participation in interscholastic
        activities.

Athletic Participation Fee:
If selected to participate on an athletic team, a student must pay a $50 participation fee before being allowed
to compete. This is a one- time-a-year athletic participation fee that covers all sports.

Risk of Participation/Warning:
Due to the risk of serious injury that may result from athletic participation, Richland Northeast will use the
following safeguards to inform parents and students of such risk and to make every effort to prevent injury:

  •     Conduct a parent-athlete meeting prior to the start of the student’s athletic participation to explain
        the athletic policies and to advise, caution, and warn parents/athletes of the potential for injury.

  •     Instruct all athletes of the dangers of participation in the particular sport.

Athletic Code of Conduct:

A firm policy of enforcement is necessary to uphold the regulations and standards of the Athletic
Department. The community, school administrators, and coaching staff believe strongly that high standards
of conduct and citizenship are essential in maintaining a sound program of athletics. The welfare of the
student is our major consideration and transcends any other consideration.

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Any conduct that results in dishonor to the athlete, team, or school will not be tolerated. This rule is The
Unacceptable Conduct Rule.
A violation of The Unacceptable Conduct Rule that involves a student-athlete being detained by law
enforcement or being charged with any violation of law other than minor traffic violations may result in the
student-athlete being placed on temporary suspension from athletic activities. Additional suspension or
penalty may be assessed pending an investigation.

    •   Suspension means that the athlete may not dress out or participate in an athletic contest. It may
        also include suspension from practice. However, the athlete may be required to continue to practice
        with his/her team.
    •   Dismissal from a team means that the student is no longer a part of the team.

Athlete Substance Abuse:
It is the overwhelming opinion of health professionals that athletes perform best when they follow intelligent
training rules, which include restrictions of tobacco, alcohol, and any type of mood-modifying substances
that produce harmful effects on the body. The RNE coaches, concerned with the health habits of the
student-athletes of this community, are convinced that athletics and the use of these substances are not
compatible. Athletes must understand that they cannot compromise athletics with substance abuse.

Any athlete using or possessing alcohol or tobacco or using, possessing, buying, or selling illegal controlled
substances may be denied participation in interscholastic athletics or face suspension from games or
contests. This rule, The Athlete Substance Abuse Rule, is enforced twelve months of the year. Richland
School District Two’s Zero Tolerance Policy applies to any instance in which the athlete is representing
Richland Northeast or Richland School District Two.

DISCIPLINE
Discipline — Student Rights
If a student is accused of an offense, the following procedure will be followed:
The student must be given oral or written notice of the charges against him; if he denies them:
   •     He must be given an explanation of the evidence that the authorities have; and
   •     He must be given an opportunity to present his version of what happened.

Code of Conduct – Code AR JICDA-R Issued 12/17

Level One, Two, and Three Offenses:
The following listing of offenses and the required or recommended dispositions are submitted for the
information of students, parents/legal guardians, and school personnel. Disciplinary actions will include
appropriate hearings, and review, and the removal of a student from the learning environment will occur
only for just cause and in accordance with due process of law.
The following rules, regulations, and due process procedures are designed to protect all members of the
educational community in the exercise of their rights and responsibilities. These rules apply to any
student:
     • who is on school property;
     • who is in attendance at school or any school sponsored activity; or
     • whose conduct at any time or in any place has a direct and immediate effect on maintaining order
         and discipline in the schools

 Level I- Behavioral Misconduct
Behavioral misconduct is defined as those activities engaged in by a student(s) which tend to impede
orderly classroom procedures or instructional activities, orderly operation of the school, or the frequency
or seriousness of which may disturb the classroom or school. The provisions of this document apply not

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