ROY C. KETCHAM
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
STUDENT HANDBOOK
2008-2009
Mrs. Sherrill Murray-Lazarus, Principal
(GRADE
12 ADMINISTRATOR)
Mrs. Sydnie Vasquez, Assistant Principal
(GRADE
9 ADMINISTRATOR)
Mr. Anthony Giovinazzi, Assistant Principal
(GRADE
11 ADMINISTRATOR)
Mr. Matthew Lawrence, Assistant Principal
(GRADE
10 ADMINISTRATOR)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Academic Standards Policy 20
Clubs and Activities 28
Co-Curricular Eligibility 18
Detention Guidelines 34
Dress Code 36
Dropping a Course 24
Early Dismissal/Late Arrival 24
Electronic Devices 36
Fundraising 10
“Getting the News”
(Announcements, Webpage) 12
Grading Policy 23
Guidance Office/Counselors 14
Health & Safety 38
History of RCK 9
History of WCSD 7
Homework Requests 36
Honor Roll 27
In-School Restriction Guidelines 33
Intramurals/Interscholastic Sports 27
Introduction 3
Lockers/Personal Valuables 15
Lost and Found 15
Personal Responsibility of Students 40
Philosophy of WCSD 5
Physical Education Excuses 38
Release of Information 4
Schedule Changes 25
Special Events 31
Special Learning Needs 10
Student Hotline Phone Numbers 42
Student Parking/Driving Privileges 18
Student Services 13
Testing (PSAT, SAT, ACT,
ASVAB) 14
Textbooks/Fines 22
Visitors and Guests 18
Where to Go For Help 41
Working Papers 15
INTRODUCTION
|
W |
elcome
to
Get to know your school. Become familiar with the location of
classrooms, labs, cafeteria, gymnasium, attendance office, counseling office,
nurses’ office, and administrators’ offices.
“Know Yourself”!
Students who know themselves can be more successful than those who do
not. Carefully consider your interests,
abilities, limitations, strengths and weaknesses.
Study and learn as much as you can. You can become what you want and go as far as
you like – the only limitations are your abilities and your determination to
work and succeed. Our school provides
you with many opportunities; it is up to you to decide whether you will succeed
or fail.
Make friends. Take part in and enjoy the many
activities available.
Be yourself and maintain your individuality. Don’t lose yourself or follow the crowd. Have the courage to do what is right.
The
policies and procedures contained in the Handbook are the result of a concerted
effort on the part of the faculty, administration, and students. This information has been carefully prepared
and presented so that it will be of value in helping you to become an integral
part of our school.
The
ultimate purpose of public education is to help each student become an
effective citizen in a democracy. To
develop and accept the responsibilities and obligations of good citizenship
will help us to participate successfully in the world of today and
tomorrow. We hope that you will
participate in our varied activities and thus find those things within our
school which will prepare you to live a better life and finally take your place
in this complex society. Remember that
your success in this school will be directly proportional to your efforts.
RELEASE
OF INFORMATION
In an effort to protect the safety
and security of
If you do not wish to have this
information disclosed, written notice must be provided to the Building
Principal. A simple written, signed note
stating, “Please do not release any directory information”, will suffice. The note may be delivered in person and/or
mailed to: Principal,
WAPPINGERS CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
PHILOSOPHY
The
following is the philosophy of the
We
are confronted with an ever-changing society.
It is essential to equip our students not only to survive in that
society, but also to manage their life experiences effectively.
Among
the challenges facing our students are:
§
the uncertainties
of our world in a time of new scientific, environmental, economic, political, and social realities;
§
problems related
to our economic, political and social systems;
§
the questioning
of fundamental social institutions, traditional values, and the introduction of
new cultural patterns;
§
the threat to
individual rights, dignity and freedom.
The
task of our school district is to prepare students to deal effectively with
these challenges in order to live successfully and happily. Since they will be asked to identify or
choose from a vast array of alternative possibilities, OUR PURPOSE IS TO PREPARE HUMANE CRITICAL THINKERS, DECISION-MAKERS AND
PROBLEM-SOLVERS. To accomplish this,
our students must develop and utilize:
§
intellectual
curiosity and eagerness for lifelong learning;
§
the knowledge,
skills and attitudes of maintaining physical well-being throughout their
lifetimes;
§
fundamental
skills of computation and communication, including demonstrating, observing,
speaking, listening, reading and writing;
§
esthetic
application and self-expression in the fine, performing, practical and popular
arts;
§
the ability to
think and evaluate constructively and creatively;
§
self-discipline
including effective work habits and responsible behavior;
§
an understanding
of a variety of processes that can be used in decision-making situations;
§
interpersonal and
group dynamic skills;
§
ethical and moral
behavior based on respect and appreciation for human values, beliefs and the
rights of others;
§
an awareness of
our relationships to the family and to local, national and world communities;
§
a knowledge of
our American heritage, its civil rights and responsibilities;
§
an understanding of the various types of work, and their
function in a contribution to society.
The
effective implementation of this philosophy shall require the acceptance,
support and participation of the Board of Education, staff, students, and
community. We commit ourselves to
providing the necessary efforts, means, and resources.
~ OUR
HISTORY ~
WAPPINGERS CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT HISTORY
A meeting was called on
In 1957, the school districts of
Stormville, Old Hopewell, East Fishkill No. 6, and Gayhead were added. Finally, in 1958, the
Since June 1950, there have been
added for the elementary children the
On
In 1963 voters approved the
enlargement of
A budget approving a second senior
high school for
In 2000, a referendum vote allocated
funds for the addition of new state-of-the-art science wings on
ROY
Roy
C. Ketcham was President of the Board of Education and a member of the Board
for approximately 25 years. He was part
of the centralization movement of the
In
July 1985, Mr. Ketcham was named in a Poughkeepsie Journal poll as one
of the ten most influential “movers and shakers” in
Our
school has been characterized for years by a tradition of excellence. A few words about our recent graduating class
presents part of the picture. Of the 445
graduates in 2007, approximately 87% will continued their formal education
full-time. Of these, 42% enrolled in
four year colleges and universities, and 45% entered two-year colleges or
technical schools. 1% will be entering
the military. This class had 4 National Merit Scholarship Commended Students, 4
National Merit Finalists and 1 National Merit Scholarship winner! We had 16 New
York State Academic Excellence Scholarship winners; and two Robert C. Byrd
Honors Scholarship winners. In addition
there were an extensive number of college-based merit scholarships.
FUNDS
AND FUNDRAISING
All
fund-raising projects must also have the approval of the Administration; all
funds must be strictly accounted for, and processed through the Students
Accounts Treasurer.
PATRIOTISM AND CITIZENSHIP
The
main objective of
EQUITY
Membership
and participation in curricular and extra-curricular activities are not denied
on the basis of race, sex, marital status, color, religion, national origin, or
disability.
The
Roy C. Ketcham “Equity Team” will be designated by the Principal. It is the Team’s responsibility to see that
equity laws and standards are adhered to at
The
school district is also an “equal opportunity employer.” Further, our students
will not be guided towards courses or career choices on the basis of sex or
racial/ethnic background. Equitable
access is provided to all courses; any priorities that exist are designated by
prerequisites and year of graduation.
SPECIAL LEARNING NEEDS
Any
parent (or teacher) who suspects that his child has a condition that affects
learning should arrange a conference with the guidance counselor or school
administrator. A possible recommendation by the administrator could include a
referral to the Learning Improvement Team. A request for evaluation by the
school psychologist and other members of the evaluation team should be submitted
in writing and brought to the attention of the Principal.
For
students new to this country and/or the English language, we also have ESL
(English as a Second Language) classes.
This program is designed to develop skills in listening, speaking,
reading and writing in the English language, and to assist in student’s
learning of their lessons in their other courses.
Students
coming in to the District without records are informally screened by the
guidance counselors and administrators who interview all incoming students and
parents. RCK teachers will do further
informal academic assessments, particularly to identify the need for remedial
or gifted (honors) instruction. Formal
educational testing by the counselor or the psychologist may also occur on the
recommendation of the parent, a faculty member, or the Principal.
HEALTH-RELATED REQUIREMENTS
Students
are required to wear eye safety devices in shops, laboratories, and other
classes when activities present a potential eye hazard. Every student must have on file in the Health
Office proof of compliance with mandatory immunization against poliomyelitis,
rubella, diphtheria, measles, and mumps, or have validation of accepted
exemptions for medical or religious reasons.
Those not complying are excluded from school, as per State and District
regulations.
PUBLIC ACCESS TO RECORDS
The
public has a right to many of the records held by the school. A listing of Records Access Personnel is
posted in the Superintendent’s Office, the Business Office, and the Main
Offices of all the schools of the district.
The Records Access Officer, who is located in the District Personnel
Office, has overall knowledge of policy, regulations, and procedures.
Personnel
records are not open. However, a parent
or legal guardian has the right to see records pertaining to his/her own child,
and a legally emancipated child or a student aged eighteen or older has a
similar legal right. For more
information, contact the Principal or Guidance counselor.
GETTING THE NEWS
P.A. ANNOUNCEMENTS
All
notices of club meetings, athletic and social events, general information for
the day, and specific instructions are announced over the P.A. system each
morning. Students responsible for
putting notices on this daily announcement must have all bulletins approved by
their advisor prior to posting.
Please
take on the responsibility of listening to these daily announcements because
much important information is publicized via this medium. All daily announcements are available to the
public through registration to our online internet list service. Go to www.wappingersschools.org, under ‘
RCK HOMEPAGE
Visit
the RCK Homepage by going to www.wappingersschools.org,
click on schools and click on Roy C. Ketcham HS. Information and upcoming events is posted
daily on our website.
PUBLICATIONS
THE KETCHAM COURIER—Our student newspaper, which
also serves as our newsletter and can be viewed online by going to the RCK
homepage and clicking on the link.
RCK TODAY—The
daily bulletin of events that matter to students and faculty.
PORTICO—The yearbook becomes a prized possession when it
appears in June. The yearbook also takes on the responsibility for school
pictures.
ODYSSEY—A literary magazine that
contains student works and is published yearly.
BULLETIN BOARDS
All materials for posting
on hall bulletin boards must have an advisor’s approval and an administrator’s
stamp. As a result of protective regulations of the Fire Department, hall
posters are required to be approved and then covered with glass.
SCHOOL CLOSINGS AND DELAYED OPENINGS
Each
school year, a designated number of school days are reserved for school
closings due to weather conditions or other emergencies. These closings, as well as any delay in
opening schools are announced on the following radio stations:
WEOK-1390 WBNR-1260 WSPK-104.7 WGNY-1220 WKIP-1450 WHUD-100.7
WKIP-1450 WCZK-97.7
Closings
and delays are posted promptly on the district’s web site: www.wappingersschools.org
DISTRICT WEB PAGE
For
pertinent district information, please log on to the WCSD Web Page at www.wappingersschools.org. From this site, you can access the
STUDENT SERVICES
ADMINISTRATION (Principal, 3
Assistant Principals)
Each
of the four
GRADE LEVEL ADMINISTRATORS
Grade 9 – Mrs. Sydnie Vasquez
Grade 10 – Mr. Matthew Lawrence
Grade 11 – TBA
Grade 12 – Mrs. Sherrill Murray-Lazarus
GUIDANCE (The Counseling Office)
Counselors
are resource persons for academic counseling, including selection of courses;
career advisement, and college selection.
Guidance counselors are also primary sources for any individual
questions that arise during the school year.
2008/2009 SCHOOL COUNSELING STAFF
Ms. K. DeGroat Mr. R. Lawler
(Counselor-In-Charge)
Ms. S. deSimone Mrs. A. Sarna
Mrs. J. Frangione Mr. D. Townsend
Mrs. D. Klemm
PSYCHOLOGIST
The
school psychologist does extensive educational testing and evaluation of
students, in addition to being available on a referral basis from teachers and
administrators, for students who wish assistance in certain areas.
SOCIAL WORKER
The
school social worker is the connection between home and the school. A vital service performed by the social
worker is that of “connecting” students with appropriate community sources. The social worker also does individual and
group counseling.
TESTING
College
bound students should give consideration to taking certain achievement tests in
10th and 11th grade.
Students should consult with their guidance counselor for further
information.
PSAT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test) serves as the
National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.
It is available to students in the fall of their junior year.
SAT (Scholastic Aptitude Test) offered in the spring of
the junior year, and several times during the year. The May or June test date is an important step
in the direction of college acceptance.
ACT (American College Testing Program) is an
alternate-testing program for college bound students. College catalogues available in the
Counseling Office and the Roy C. Ketcham High School Library supply information
for specific colleges and universities.
ASVAB
(Armed Services Vocational Aptitude
WORKING PAPERS
If
you are 14 or 15 years of age and want to work outside the home, you
must obtain working papers. You may not
work in a factory. You may not work more
than 8 hours in a day, 6 days a week and 40 hours per week. During the time school is in session, you may
work 3 hours per day, Monday through Friday.
On weekends you may work 8 hours a day.
You may not work after
To obtain a working card
YOU must go to main office to obtain forms between the hours of
§
complete all of
part 1 on the application form including signature of parent or guardian;
§
obtain a
physician’s certificate of good health (examination within the
previous year) from the health office when school is
in session, or family doctor when school is not open;
§
return both forms
to the main office.
LOST AND FOUND
Lost
articles may be claimed by students in the Attendance Office. Found items should be brought to this office.
LOCKERS / LARCENY AND PERSONAL
VALUABLES
Unfortunately,
as in any community, there are a few who will take from others. Such behavior is unacceptable. (See Code of Conduct). The potential victim of larceny also has the
responsibility to keep track of his/her possessions, not to bring valuables
(including radios, tape-sets, walkmans, etc) or extra money to school, not to
give locker combinations, and to secure possessions in lockers.
Each
student will be issued a hall locker and lock in the beginning of the school
year. School lockers are the property of
the
Students
are required to keep their locker locked and not to share their combination or
locker space with anyone. The school
cannot be responsible for lost or stolen items from an unlocked or communal
locker. Students will be responsible for
reimbursing the school for the cost of lost locks. Personal locks are not permitted to be used
on school lockers and may be removed by custodial staff without obligation to
replace or reimburse the student for the unapproved locks.
LIBRARY
The
Roy C. Ketcham Senior High School Library is available to all students during
the school day. Specific hours will be
announced at the beginning of school.
Students may use the library for reference work, recreational reading,
or project assignments from classes.
Students who wish to go to the library from study hall may sign up on
the library pass in their study halls.
Everyone will arrive together in the library with the pass. Seniors and students from lunch do not need
passes but must sign in. They are allowed
one entrance each period. No students
may leave the library the last five minutes of each period.
Books
are borrowed from the library for a period of two weeks. Overdue notices are sent to teachers for
distribution to students who have not returned books. Students are liable for a payment of
unreturned books.
CAFETERIA
The
atmosphere of the student cafeteria is one that reflects the courtesy, care,
and cleanliness of the people who use it.
Waiting on line patiently, avoiding food spillage, and properly
discarding refuse all contribute to a more comfortable, healthier environment
in which to eat our meals. The Roy C. Ketcham Senior High School Cafeteria is
open to students during the day. Students should be in the Cafeteria only during their assigned
periods, and eat their food there rather than in the halls.
Menu—The Wappingers Central
School Food Service Department provides a wide variety of food offerings
throughout the day. Foods offered include breakfast to a choice of luncheon
meats, salads, and a la carte items.
There is a great variety suitable to every taste. Snacks are also sold until Period 7. Breakfast is $1.00. The cost of lunch is $2.00 and premium meals
are $2.75.
Free or Reduced Lunch—Free or reduced-price lunches are available for
students whose families meet specific guidelines. Applications are available from the Main
Office.
In
case of emergency, if a student is without lunch money, the Cafeteria will
provide food. Payment is expected the
next school day.
In-Class Lunch Conflict - Students who
choose not to have a lunch period may NOT go to the cafeteria and then to
class. Students are expected to include
a lunch period in their daily schedule and therefore they will NOT be permitted
to go to the cafeteria and then to the classroom. If, and only IF, a teacher chooses to permit students to eat in
their classroom, then, and ONLY THEN, may a student bring lunch from
home and eat in that class. Students
should plan their schedules accordingly and must understand that:
-
Teachers are under no obligation to extend in-class
lunch conflict to any student.
-
Teachers may not send students to the cafeteria for
lunch conflicts during any class period.
-
Teachers may not allow students to go first to the
cafeteria and then to the classroom during any class period.
-
Students are ONLY permitted to eat in class if the
individual teacher has given prior permission for the student to do so (and
must bring their lunch from home).
-
This permission may be revoked at any time by the
teacher without prior notice to students.
VISITORS AND GUESTS
The
law concerning trespassing on school property has been interpreted by the
police and the school district attorney.
It is absolutely necessary that all members of the student body be made
aware of the provisions of this legislation.
It is printed below:
“S772-b. Any person not the parent or legal guardian
of a pupil in regular attendance at said school who loiters in or about any
public school building or grounds without written permission from the
Principal, custodian, or the person in charge thereof, or in violation of
posted rules and regulations governing the use thereof, shall be guilty of
disorderly conduct and/or criminal trespassing.”
It
must be made clear to all students and staff that no appointments are to be
made by them to see visitors during school hours, in the building or on the
campus at any time.
ALL visitors MUST sign in and show photo
ID so they can obtain a visitors pass in the main lobby. Parents are always welcome but are also
expected to sign in. Visitors are required to wear a visitor’s pass. Persons who are not current students should call at
least 24 hours in advance for permission to visit the building. However, visitation privileges may be
restricted or denied.
CLOSED CAMPUS POLICY:
OFF-LIMITS AREAS
During
lunch time students may use the Cafeteria, the Library (for specified uses),
and designated areas. The parking lots and the woods are OFF-LIMITS for
students throughout the school day. Students must have written permission from
the Attendance Office in order to leave campus early.
STUDENT DRIVING/PARKING PRIVILEGES
Student
driving/parking privileges are available only to seniors who are academically
eligible and who meet other criteria for driving to school. Student inquiries should be made to the
Assistant Principal’s office. All violations of the New York State Vehicle and
Traffic Code will be handled by police agencies.
CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES
The
ACADEMICS COME FIRST:
One of the main goals of the
YOU MUST BE IN SCHOOL TO PARTICIPATE:
A student must attend school and all scheduled classes on the day of an
activity in order to participate in that co-curricular activity (e.g., game,
practice, performance, rehearsal, etc.) Limited exceptions to this rule may
be made by the administration, on a case-by-case basis, for compelling
extenuating circumstances, including the necessity for early dismissals from
school to participate in scheduled contests and/or performances. If a
student is sent home by the school nurse during the school day, the student shall
not participate for the remainder of the day (unless cleared by a physician to
indicate otherwise).
THINK BEFORE YOU ACT:
When
students are given the privilege of representing our school and community in
co-curricular activities, we expect them to conduct themselves in an exemplary
and acceptable manner. For the purposes of eligibility, appropriate student
conduct is not limited to school premises, school hours, or only those times
when a student is actually participating in the co/extra-curricular activity.
Therefore, this expectation of behavior applies at all times and in all public
places. To ensure the integrity of the co-curricular programs for everyone,
anyone who engages in misconduct or other inappropriate behavior will be
subject to discipline or denial of the privilege of participating. What
constitutes "misconduct" or "inappropriate" will be
determined by the WCSD Student Handbook, Code of Conduct, or the
Interscholastic Eligibility and Participation Booklet.
WCSD Academic Eligibility Policy
Eligibility
is determined prior to the beginning of any co-curricular program but is also
subject to review throughout the duration of that program. Prior to the
beginning of the program or the tryout period, a student must demonstrate his
eligibility status through the previous marking period report card. Once the
program begins, eligibility status must be maintained throughout the marking
periods. Once a student falls below the minimum requirements, he/she may no
longer participate in the activity. A student may regain their eligible status
through an appeals process (explained below) or through meeting the
requirements on the next marking period report card. Students declared
ineligible are not permitted to participate in practices, tryouts or rehearsals
until they regain eligibility status or until they are given an appeal.
A student is considered eligible
based on meeting all of the following criteria:
§
A student must be considered a full-time
student: (a student is full time when they carry the correct minimum number of
courses, with Physical Education counting as one course)
Freshman-6 courses Sophomores-6 courses
Juniors-6 courses Seniors-5 courses (including college
level, bridge, internship and co-op)
§
A student must
maintain an overall average of 70% with no more than one failure, using the
most recent marking period.
A
student is ineligible based on any of the following
criteria:
§
The student does
not meet the conditions of full-time student status
§
A student does
not maintain an overall average of 70% with no more than one failure
§
The student fails
two or more courses
§
NYSPHSAA
guidelines prevent 5th year seniors from participating in
interscholastic teams pending appeal
Eligibility
for Fall activities or programs is determined by the fourth quarter of the
previous year, not the final average. Exceptions to this rule include: incoming
freshman to the high schools are given a "clean-slate"; in-coming
transfer students are given one marking period in the WCSD to determine status;
and, any student taking summer school and/or summer tutoring (language
added) to pass failures may, upon passing the required coursework, change
their status and become eligible for Fall co/extra-curricular activities.
PROBATIONARY STATUS AND CONTINUING ELIGIBILITY:
Under the rules outlined above, a student may remain eligible for participation
in co-curricular activities, including athletics, with one course failing grade
if he/she maintains an overall average of 70% or better. However, if a student
is so identified, he/she will be placed on “probationary status” until the next
marking period grades have been awarded. This shall mean:
§
The student must
meet with the guidance counselor to review and identify the reasons for poor
performance in the failed course.
§
The student shall
be expected to pass the “failed” course by the time of the next marking period,
as well as continuing to pass all other courses and achieving an overall
average of 70% or better.
§
The student will
be required to complete a weekly academic performance card which receives the
signature of each teacher describing whether the student is passing and meeting
all of the requirements of the course. This card will be submitted by the
student to his/her guidance counselor and coach or advisor each week for review
of his/her continuing academic progress.
§
If at the time of
the next marking period, the student has not passed the course which triggered
the probation, the student is changed to ineligible.
§
If the student
should fail any other course and/or fall below an overall average of 70%, even
if he/she has passed the course that had triggered the probation, the student
is changed to ineligible.
Appeals
If a student is determined to be ineligible for co-curricular activities, the
student will be notified in writing. Each notified “ineligible” student has the
right to appeal using the following process:
He/she must do so in writing
to the Assistant Principal in charge of the Appeals Committee stating why an
appeal should be granted.
§
The students’
written appeal request must be filed on or before the deadline date posted on
the report cards.
§
Each appeal shall
be considered on an individual basis.
§
At the Appeal
Committee meeting, the student may be accompanied by others whom the student
wishes to have talk on his/her behalf.
§
The outcome of the students’ appeal shall be
determined by the Appeals Committee whose decision shall be given to the
student in writing and in a timely manner.
§
The ineligible status
of the student shall remain as reported until an appeal has been granted.
CURRICULAR
TEXTBOOKS AND BOOK FINES
The
school furnishes books to all students.
This is done with the hope that this major investment will be properly
safeguarded. Reasonable damage is
expected as a result of daily use.
UNREASONABLE DAMAGE TO TEXTBOOKS WILL RESULT IN FINES. Lost textbooks
must be paid for and replaced immediately.
The fines for these must be paid to the office at the time of damage or
loss. Board of Education policy requires that articles issued and not returned
are to be paid for by the student to whom they were issued. Please pay for or return the lost items by
the time school opens in September so that locks, books, etc. can be reissued
for the new school year.
GRADING POLICY
Grading
is the school’s method of defining a student’s progress. It is a combination of effort and grades on
specific assignments. As they attend
each class, students should be absolutely sure that they understand what each
teacher expects and why it is expected.
Students may ask for the reason behind the rules and reasons that are
applied in the classroom as well as around the school. Each teacher has the
right to determine the appropriate means to set grades in his or her course. Students should be sure that they understand
the rules as they start the year. Any
student cutting a test or a quiz will receive a zero (0%) on the test or quiz. Students
who must take final exams are responsible for attending at the designated times
established for January and June.
WEIGHTED GRADES
Weighted
grades are used in determining cumulative grade point averages, rank-in-class,
and eligibility for various honoraries and awards. Students in all Honors and AP (Advanced
Placement) courses earn additional points which are added to the final average.
HOMEWORK
Homework is an important
part of education. It teaches students
the self-discipline to study independently and it helps in learning the
material in courses. In order to succeed at these essential tasks it is
important that the student:
-understand each assignment before leaving
the classroom;
-understand each teacher’s homework
policy;
-prepare long-range assignments when they
are assigned, not
wait until
the night before they are actually due!
The
amount of homework that each student will need to complete at home depends on
what use the student makes of time provided in school (such as study halls).
It
is the responsibility of the student to obtain all make-up work from their
teachers immediately upon return to school from absence. If a student is to be absent for two days or
more, it is in his/her best interest to contact the school to arrange for
assignments to be sent home. Homework not completed because of legal absence
must be made up within a reasonable time frame agreed upon by the teacher and
the student. A subject notebook of some kind is required for every
subject. Each department has individual
requirements for notebooks, and teachers will inform students of these
requirements during the first week of school.
EARLY DISMISSAL AND LATE ARRIVAL
Early
dismissal and late arrival privileges are permitted to those seniors
whose schedules do not have classes at the beginning or end of the day. Parents’ written permission is required. Because early dismissal and late arrival are
privileges and not rights, they may be revoked as a result of misbehavior or
poor academic record. Student programs
will not be designed with early dismissal/late arrival as key factors in scheduling.
The expectation is that all students
attend a full day of school.
PERMISSABLE CHANGES
Changes
may be necessary to a student’s program.
A student may ADD a course to an open period. A student may resolve conflicts. A student may with written parental
permission, DROP a course not needed for graduation (within district add/drop
guidelines). A student may make these changes in accordance with the
ADDING A COURSE
A
student may add a course to their schedule during the first ten days of each
semester only. Students may not add a full year or semester
course after this date.
CHANGE OF GROUP (Switching to a related course
of a different level)
All
changes of group within related courses must be completed no later than two
weeks following the end of the first semester.
It is recommended that change of group decisions involve the instructor,
counselor and department head/coordinator.
DROPPING A COURSE
A
full-year course may be dropped up
to the 10th week of the course.
A semester course may be
dropped up until the 5th week of a course. After the 10th
or 5th week of a course, a student will be required to complete the
course and the grade earned will appear on the student’s academic record. If a student is removed from a course after
the first marking period, the course will remain on the student’s academic
record accompanied by a designation of “DP” (withdrawal/drop with a passing
grade) or “DF” (withdrawal/drop with a failing grade). This schedule change
procedure will be in effect from the time the Students Records System begins in
mid-August of each year through June of each school year. As a rule, courses
required of ALL students may not be dropped.
In some situations, however, it may be necessary for a counselor,
instructor, parent and administrator to review a request for a schedule change.
STUDENT SCHEDULE CHANGES: Your schedule
represents a year-long commitment on your part.
The school has made a commitment to provide you with the courses
necessary to meet your needs. Your
teachers, counselor, and administrators are encouraging you to do your best in
every course. We are all here to help
you get the greatest benefit from your scheduled classes. NOTE: Schedule changes should be viewed only as a
last resort.
STUDY HALLS
Study
halls are scheduled for ninth, tenth and eleventh grade students so that they
will have time, during school hours, to work on homework and assigned projects,
or to use the Library. Students are to
bring study materials, books, and supplies to study halls. So that all students may concentrate when
doing homework, or studying for tests, study halls should maintain a low noise
level. Students are required report to and attend study halls on time each day. Seniors are not required to attend study
hall, but must report to designated areas when the late bell rings. Senior
free periods are a privilege, which may be revoked for disciplinary or academic
reasons. In these situations, seniors will
be assigned study halls.
COURSES/REGENTS CREDIT AND GRADES
Students
who fail a course but pass a related Regents Exam will receive Regents credit
but no course credit.
Students
who pass the course but fail the Regents Exam will receive course credit but no
Regents credit. These students may
retake the Regents Exam and, it they subsequently pass it, receive Regents
credit.
Students
who fail the Regents Exam and subsequently retake it cannot have their new
Regents Exam mark re-averaged with semester marks in the eleventh grade course
for the purpose of raising the final average.
Any
student who fails a full-year course must retake the course for the entire year
or in an approved summer school and pass the course in order to receive course
credit. (See also the section below on “Doubling.”)
SUMMER SCHOOL
Summer
classes are available in nearby districts for those students who fail selected
courses. Students must be currently registered and attending school at
REGENTS RETAKES
Students
who pass a Regents course, but fail the Regents Exam, may wish to retake the
exam in
EXAMINATIONS
Regents-level
standards are increasing the level of academic rigor demanded of our students.
Over the past several years, the percent of Wappingers Central students placed
in the more challenging Regents (and higher) courses has increased
dramatically, with excellent results.
The
demands of higher education and the workplace, as well as our need to compete
in a global economy, require a rigorous instructional program in our senior
high schools. Please keep these goals in
mind as you plan your high school program and select your courses for next
year.
CLASS RANK
In
the fall of the senior year, students are ranked academically by the Counseling
Office.
EARLY GRADUATION
Students
who want to graduate one year earlier should see their guidance counselors for
information about the two plans for early graduation:
Out-of-School
Plan – Courses at a local college
for high school credit.
In-School
Plan – Double up in English and
Social Studies in the eleventh grade.
HONOR ROLL
The
Counseling Office compiles student listings every quarter. In order for a student to be considered for
either the High Honor Roll (91.0%
and higher) or Honor Roll (85.0 to 90.0%),
a student must be enrolled in five classes plus physical
education and have no failing grades.
Only grades from
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
All
students must take and pass Physical Education during each semester of
attendance, including Personal Challenge (Grade 9), Healthy Lifestyles (Grade
10), and four semesters of Lifetime P.E. (Grades 11 & 12). Each semester earns a Ľ credit, totaling two
full credits upon completion of four years.
New York Sate requires two credits of Physical Education to meet graduation
requirements. The grades earned in Physical Education classes are counted in both the quarterly and the final
averages. This ultimately affects
honor-roll status and class ranking.
INTRAMURAL AND INTERSCHOLASTIC SPORTS -
The
Roy C. Ketcham Interscholastic Sports Program is open to 9th through
12th grade students. If
interested in trying out for a team, students should contact their physical
education teacher or the Roy C. Ketcham Athletic Coordinator. The program offers: Soccer, Football, Field
Hockey, Tennis Cross Country, Volleyball, Swimming, Basketball, Gymnastics,
Wrestling, Indoor Track, Baseball, Softball, Track, Golf, Bowling, and
Lacrosse. Some of these sports also have
J.V. teams.
The
after-school intramural sports program at Roy C. Ketcham High is open to 9th
through 12th grade students.
Students should listen to announcements about intramural offerings. If interested in trying out for a team,
students should contact their physical education teacher. A variety of programs
are available.
INTERSCHOLASTIC
All
students interested in any of the sports listed below should seek out
information on how to join a team:
Fall – Cross
Country; Volleyball; Football; Boy’s Soccer; Girls Swimming; Field Hockey
Winter –
Wrestling; Basketball; Gymnastics; Boys Swimming; Indoor Track, Bowling
Spring –
Track; Tennis; Baseball; Golf; Girls Softball; Girls Soccer, Lacrosse
Selection is by try-out.
GOVERNMENT
Student Council deals with student activities and services. Council focuses on coordinating social and
service activities for
Class Officers – Elections for Class Officers take place each
year. Freshman Class Officers are
elected in September. Sophomore, Junior,
and Senior Officers are elected in May.
The term of class officers begins on the first day of classes after
Memorial Day. The Student Election Committee
is responsible for the election of class officers. Anyone who is interested in running for class
officer should see the Election Committee Advisor for a copy of the by-laws
that govern class elections. In order to
serve or be elected to a class office, students must maintain an 80 average on
a quarterly basis.
CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES
AMERICAN FIELD SERVICE (AFS) – is a club which helps foreign exchange
students. Students also participate in
social activities of the A.F.S. clubs of other schools. Students who like to meet new people are
encouraged to join.
The KETCHAM COURIER– is the school newspaper. Open to all interested, students should see
the newspaper’s advisor to join.
BANDS - (Concert, Jazz, Marching, Symphonic, and Wind
Ensemble) are open to all instrumentalists.
Students interested in joining one of the bands should see a music
teacher about an audition.
CHESS CLUB – this club meets weekly to practice and play
Chess. The club also sponsors the
Ketcham Tournaments and participates in off-campus tournaments.
CHORUS – is open to all students interested in singing. Students should see a music teacher about an
audition.
DEBATE CLUB – chooses topics that may be controversial and offers
students a chance to present arguments for and against the issues.
DECA – (Distributive Education Club) is an organization only
open to students enrolled in Retailing classes.
DECA members are involved in a program of activities including
competition and social and professional student-centered activities and
events. In addition, students are
eligible to receive scholarships to various colleges for further study in
marketing and distribution.
HONOR SOCIETY – The Dutchess Chapter of the National Honor Society
was chartered by the National Honor Society in 1941. Invitations to apply for membership are sent
to all juniors with an average of 88.5 at the end of their sophomore year.
MULTICULTURAL GROUP – is open to all students interested in learning more
about the diversity of the people in our school.
ODYSSEY – is the school’s art and literary magazine that
showcases student’s artistic and literary talents.
PEER LEADERSHIP GROUP – is open to all students who wish to become involved in
peer listening, peer mediation, and school improvement projects. Members take part in school and weekend
training sessions to develop inter-personal skills and improve self-esteem.
PEER MEDIATION – involves students helping to resolve conflicts among
other students. Training is offered each
year.
MASQUE AND MIME –
SADD – Student Against Drunk Driving is open to all students interested in
preventing drug and alcohol abuse. This
chapter’s main activities are Dead for a Day and mock DWI accident and court
hearing.
SKI CLUB – the purpose of the RCK Ski Club is to raise funds to
lower the cost of skiing for both day and weekend trips. Ski Club is open to all students of all
skiing abilities – beginner, intermediate, and expert.
SCHOOL STORE – The school store sells school supplies, snacks and RCK
regalia. Students take part in sales,
advertising, display, and accounting.
SCIENCE OLYMPIAD – is a group that trains and prepares to enter local,
regional, and state competitions in scientific method, knowledge and
application.
STAGE/LIGHTING CREW – works year-round for all auditorium events. The primary work of the stage crew is to
perform all of the behind the scene work including art, construction, makeup,
publicity, etc. At the heart of the stage crew is the lighting crew, members of
the lighting crew are handpicked by the advisor. Interested stage crew members should be aware
of announcements for plans of activities starting in September.
PORTICO – RCK’s Yearbook – staff members carry out all tasks required for
producing and selling the RCK Yearbook.
Upperclassmen sign up during the spring while incoming ninth graders
sign up in September. The only
qualification for staff membership is endurance.
Students who
are interested in joining any of these clubs must be academically eligible to
participate.
Students
interested in joining any of these clubs, or beginning any new clubs should
listen to the PA announcements for further information, or speak with a staff
member or student officer.
ROTARY INTERACT CLUB – branch of the Town of
STUDENT COUNCIL – members meet regularly to propose ideas and to discuss
circumstances related to the student body and to events at RCK. Any student is welcome to join.
SWIFT – is involved with creating an awareness of how fragile
our environment has become and sponsoring activities such as recycling.
HONORARIES
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY – Juniors
and seniors having attained a cumulative average, since ninth grade of 89%
(weighted) are eligible to be
considered for the National Honor Society, since they have met the minimum
scholarship requirement. Other
requirements are in the areas of leadership, character, and service. Students
who have attained this weighted average, and who are not presently members of
the Honor Society, are contacted during their junior year so that they can
learn what the other membership requirements are. Membership in the National
Honor Society is not a right, but rather it is an honor bestowed upon some
students by the faculty in recognition of high qualities of scholarship,
leadership, character, and service.
INTERNATIONAL THESPIAN SOCIETY – Members of Masque and Mime (Drama Club) are eligible
to become members of the Society.
Students may get further information from the Masque & Mime advisor
or the president of the Masque & Mime.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Assemblies - are held for
many different occasions, including student elections in September, and
cultural performances. Generally, these
assemblies are held in the auditorium. Students are reminded that they share
the responsibility with the faculty and program participants to make each
assembly presentation a success.
Pep
Rallies – Traditionally,
Spirit
Week – School Spirit Week is usually
held in the early fall of each school year.
On each day of that week, students and faculty wear unusual clothing or
certain colors, representative of that day’s theme.
Proms –The formal proms for the junior class and for the
senior class take place on different weekends during the spring semester.
Graduation -
The graduation ceremony is the culminating event for seniors. It is scheduled late in June.
Sporting
Events - There are many athletic events that
spectators may enjoy, not only for the sheer excitement of the sports
themselves, but also for the opportunity to see
Theatre – Masque & Mime, the
Concerts – The Music Department hosts concerts for everyone,
alternately featuring several band groups, jazz ensemble, orchestra and chorus.
Valentine-O-Gram – In love?
Wishing you were? On Valentine’s
Day, students and faculty have a chance to send a message to a favorite friend,
or a special someone. These messages are
delivered throughout the day to anyone, student or staff member. Valentine-O-Grams can be sent in writing with
a carnation or in song.
Class Trips – Class trips of any sort must conform to the
following regulations:
A. The length of the trip must be no longer than 3 days
and two nights.
B. The mode of transportation must be by bus.
C. The trip must be approved by the Assistant
Superintendent for Administration.
COMMUNITY SERVICE
Active
involvement in one’s community is stressed at RCK. Without a strong community, we could not have
a school as strong as we do. This vital
point is stressed to students through the scheduling of numerous community
based activities.
IN-SCHOOL RESTRICTION GUIDELINES
The
In-School restriction room is set up for the purpose of retaining students in
the building rather than putting them on an external restriction from
school. The in-school restriction room
is a restricted environment in which students will be required to adhere to the
following regulations. If these
regulations are not followed, the student may be assigned another day of
in-school restriction or if necessary, external suspension. In-school restriction counts as a day present
in school.
REGULATIONS FOR THE IN-SCHOOL
RESTRICTION ROOM:
1. Students are required to spend their full scheduled
school day in the in-school restriction room.
2. Students are permitted to leave the room for use of
the bathroom only for five minutes twice during the day.
3. Students are not allowed to sleep while they are in
this room.
4. Reading material other than school material is not
allowed.
5. There will be no conversing or socializing with other
students while in this room.
6. If the student does not cooperate with the person on
duty, the student may be assigned to another day of in-school restriction
and/or other disciplinary action may be taken.
7. Teachers will provide work for any student assigned to
this room.
8. Students will not be permitted to attend any classes
during their ISR assignment.
9. Any student assigned to in-school restriction that
participates in an after school activity will lose the privilege on that day he
or she is assigned.
10. Students not assigned to in-school restriction are not
allowed to enter the
in-school restriction room.
11.
Students assigned to in-school restriction who are legally
absent must make up their in-school restriction the day they return to school.
DETENTION GUIDELINES
Students who have to make
up time for tardiness, truancy or disciplinary action must report to Detention
as assigned. Detention may be assigned by an administrator or teacher. Students who fail to report to an assigned
detention will be seen by the grade level administrator and assigned In-School
Restriction and/or other disciplinary action may be taken.
If a student is absent from
school on the day detention is assigned, he/she is responsible for reporting to
the next scheduled detention. Other
rules that govern the Detention Room are:
1. Students cutting detention will be assigned In-School
Restriction.
2. Students will receive a referral if they are late to
Detention.
3. If a student is disruptive/talking
in detention, a warning will be given the first time. If this continues, the person-in-charge will
assign a different seat.
4. Further disruptive/talking will result in a referral.
5. Any student assigned to Detention who participates in
after school activities will not lose the privilege the day he or she is
assigned to Detention.
6. No food/beverage in the Detention Room.
7. Employment is not considered a legal excuse for
missing detention.
PARENTS AND SCHOOL
OPEN HOUSE
In
the fall of each school year,
CONFERENCES
If
a parent-teacher conference is requested by a teacher or if parents wish to
have a conference with teachers, a phone call should be made to the guidance
counselor or teachers to arrange a meeting.
The school phone number is 845-298-5100.
PHONE MESSAGES TO STUDENTS
The
switchboard at
BOOSTER CLUBS
Different groups have
parent/booster clubs, which support various activities of the particular club.
PARENT GROUPS
The
PARENTS IN TOUCH - is a parent organization that meets periodically to voice concerns
and interests. This group offers
suggestions regarding the Code of Conduct, organizes pre-college workshops for
students and parents and sponsors other activities during the year. It also has a role in the Middle States
evaluation process.
SITE LEADERSHIP TEAM - is the shared decision making
leadership team of the school. It is
comprised of members from all groups with a common interest in the school
community.
DRESS
Clothing
that is selected must meet the standards of safety and decency. Obscene and indecent or inappropriate designs
are not acceptable. Students may be
asked to change or call home for a change of clothing. The specifics are included in the Code of Conduct.
HATS/HEAD GEAR
Students
may wear hats to school. If a teacher
asks that a student remove their hat or headgear in the classroom, the student
must comply with the teacher’s request.
WALKMAN/DISKMAN/OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Walkmans,
diskmans and other electronic devices, as well as any non-curricular items used
for play and for entertainment are not for use during the school day and are not permitted.
REFERRAL FORMS AND LETTERS
Letters
and/or copies of referral forms from teachers will be mailed home for students
experiencing discipline, academic, or attendance problems. Phone calls may also
be made. Please make sure we have your
updated home and work telephone numbers.
This information is vital if there is an emergency. Call the Counseling Office with this current
information.
DAILY PROGRESS
REPORTS
For
those parents who wish to have a closer view of any problems their students may
be having, the “Travel Card” for daily behavior and attendance monitoring is
available. To request this service, call
the appropriate Guidance Counselor or administrator’s office.
CHILD STUDY TEAM
This
“team” is made up of the school psychologist, an administrator, and several
teachers. They meet to discuss students
with educational problems, and when appropriate, make recommendations to the
Committee on Special Education.
HOMEWORK REQUESTS
If
a student is absent from school for more than two days, a phone call to our
Guidance Office will assist in providing homework assignments. Parents and students are encouraged to
frequently visit the website established by each teacher. This is an excellent means to keep current on
assignments, projects and class information.
FIELD TRIPS
Off-campus
experiences are a valuable part of learning.
Despite some limitations (budget, transportation availability, the
35-mile radius,, etc.), these activities have usually been offered to Roy C.
Ketcham Senior High students. Supervision during field trips is important. Chaperones are always needed to make the trip
more meaningful to the students. We hope
you will notify the teacher(s) if you are able to help chaperone. All
school rules apply to off-campus trips.
PARENT PICKING UP STUDENTS
Parents
who wish to pick up their son/daughter before the end of the school day must
clear the arrangement with the Attendance Office. Please do not block the buses or the fire
lane. The student pick-up area is to the
left when facing the school building.
A
separate Handbook (located in the front
of this student agenda) includes the Wappingers Central School District/Roy
C. Ketcham Senior High School Code of Conduct.
Please encourage your student to read and to follow these
guidelines. We ask that you review them
with your son or daughter.
PARENTS/GUARDIANS – WANT TO BE INVOLVED?
How
can you participate? First of all, please know that we do welcome you! We need your support. After all, we have a mutual concern – your
children! If you have a concern, please
contact us. We don’t always agree, but
let’s talk with each other. Any requests
for confidentiality will be respected . What
else? Besides being available to
chaperone once in a while, or just being another adult present at an event, how
about: Joining our parent groups?,
Coming to a variety of school
activities…sports, drama, music, shows, etc.?, Being a “booster”?, Conversing
regularly with your child’s teachers and counselors?, Reviewing this Handbook
and Code of Conduct with your child?, Serving on the Advisory Committee?, Remembering
to “thank a teacher”?
HEALTH AND SAFETY
ACCIDENTAL INJURY
If
a student is injured he must report to the nurse without delay. The school insurance covers only school
sponsored, teacher supervised activities which are a part of the regular school
program. This does not include
fund-raising activities. The following is not covered by the school insurance: Fighting and horseplay, illness, orthodontia,
boils, insect bites, and/or chiropractic treatment.
ILLNESS
If
during the school day a student becomes too ill to continue attending classes,
he/she should report to the nurse’s office.
Parents will be contacted before students are sent home and if the
parent is unable to come for the student, an alternate person should be
available. Students may not participate
in after-school activities on a day in which they were excused for illness by
the school nurse.
MEDICATION
No
student shall bring, carry, or use any medicines or similar matter in the
school building, or on a school bus without the material being labeled for the
student’s use or prescribed by a medical doctor for his use. A note from the doctor is a must. Medication must be kept in the nurse’s
office.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION EXCUSES
If
a student is unable to attend physical education due to illness or injury,
he/she should bring a note from home to the school nurse. If he/she does not have note, he/she must see
the nurse to be excused. Students who
need to be excused for longer than one week will need a physicians note.
PHYSICALS
A
physical examination certificate is required for each student entering tenth
grade. If one is not received by October
15, the school physician will make a health appraisal. Immunizations are required. The family physician
or the school physician may do physical examinations for working papers. The school
physician prior to participation in interscholastic sports must do athletic
physicals.
SCHOOL AND THE LAW
Any
unlawful act taking place on school grounds or buses not only make the student
subject to penalties, which the courts may prescribe, but also will result in
restriction or dismissal from school.
Drugs,
including alcohol, are not only ILLEGAL,
but may result in permanent physical and psychological damage. Students are warned against their use. Anyone found possessing, selling or buying
drugs of any kind on school grounds will be suspended from school and will be
brought to the attention of the police.
Corridors
and exits of the school building should be kept clear for the passage of
students to and from classes, and for use in case of emergencies.
Crimes
including, but not limited to, larceny, arson, criminal mischief, false alarms,
vandalism, assault, harassment, etc., will be reported to the appropriate
authorities.
EMERGENCY DRILLS
There
are drills that must be held during the school year as required by the
law.
SMOKING/POSSESSION
The
possession and/or use of tobacco products on school grounds are prohibited.
SUBSTANCE USE
No
use or possession or transfer of any drug or alcohol is allowed in the building
or on the grounds of
LITTER
In
addition to the health factor in avoiding litter in the building and on the
grounds, the aesthetic value of being in a clean pleasant environment adds to
the learning situation for all students.
It is also a better quality of life for everyone!
THE PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY OF
As
a student at
1. The
Teaching-Learning Process
You
deserve the best instruction that
2. Respect
For the Rights of Others
Every
right you have has attached to it an obligation. Your rights must be balanced against the
rights of others, and their rights must be balanced against yours. Also, the purpose of the school and the
requirements of the educational process must be weighed in deciding who has a
right to do what and what behavior needs to be punished. That is why our society has laws and why a school
has rules. However, if you are one of
those students who wants to take full advantage of your rights and
opportunities at this school, while at the same time respecting the rights of
others, we at
3. Responsibility
for Your Own Actions
You
will be held responsible only for the things YOU do or fail to do. What
others do or do not do is of little importance in determining whether or not
you have accepted your responsibility as a student-citizen of
WHERE TO GO FOR HELP
Academic Help Teacher,
School Counselor
Attendance Issues Attendance
Office, Room 121
BOCES Information Guidance,
Mr. Lawrence’s Office
Book Fines Main
Office
Bus Information Mr.
Lawrence’s Office
Career & College Info Guidance
Office
Club Activities Mr.
Lawrence’s Office, Counselor
Coordinator, Special Counseling School Counselor
Discipline Information Grade
Administrator
Drugs and Alcohol Counselor, Social Worker,
Student
Assistance Counselor
Early
Elevator Keys Mr.
Lawrence’s Office
Free/Reduced Lunch Main
Office
Graduation Info Mrs.
Lazarus’ Office
Gym/PE Excuse Health
/ Nurses’ Office
Locker Problems Mr. Lawrence’s Office
Lost and Found Attendance
Office, Room 121
Medical Help Health
/ Nurses’ Office
Missing/Stolen Property Reports Principal, School Resource Officer
Parking Permits Assistant
Principal’s Office
Psychological Services School
Psychologists’ Office
Schedule Changes School
Counselor
Social Worker Guidance
Suite
Student Activities Mr. Lawrence’s Office
Special Classroom Problems Teacher,
Counselor, Admin.
Working Papers Main
Office
STUDENT
HOTLINE PHONE NUMBERS
AIDS Information 1-800-541-2437
Battered Women’s Service 485-5550
Child Abuse 1-800-342-3720
Domestic Violence 1-800-942-6906
Drug Abuse 1-800-522-5353
Mediation Center 471-7213
NYS Police 298-0398
Parent Help Line for
Prevention 1-800-342-7472
Of Child Abuse
Poison Control 1-800-336-6997
Rape Crisis Hotline 452-7272
Riverhaven 454-3600
Suicide Prevention 485-9700
United Way Information Line 471-1900