Safe and Orderly Learning Environment

Greetings!  Last week I held student assemblies to emphasize students' responsibility in SHS maintaining a safe and orderly learning environment.  The following was discussed:

• Attendance and Tardies - Students should monitor their absences and ensure that they are not in danger of losing credit due to absenteeism.  Research shows that school attendance is one of the greatest predictors as to whether or not a student will graduate high school in four years.  Students were also encouraged to get to class on time.  Five minutes are allotted for class change at this time but this can be reduced if students do not need this length of time.  Passes out of class will be limited to emergencies and reasons of an academic nature.  We need you in class.
• Safety and SRO -  Officer Hunter, our School Resource Officer, spoke about his role.  He has and will continue to intervene as necessary.  He is a valued resource for our students and staff and works very hard to ensure that all students are safe.
• Credit Recovery and Night School - These will continued to be offered but students should work on getting their credits initially rather than relying on these structures.  
• Gangs - Our community has a gang presence.  There are times when this presence shows itself at our school.  This will not be tolerated.  Students are not allowed to wear their flags and are strongly cautioned about participating in ANY gang-related activities at our school.  Please see page 26 of the RSS Student Code of Conduct for more details to include the district's definition of a gang.
• Drugs and Alcohol - Ms. Chinaka, our intervention specialist, spoke about her role in providing services for students in need.  Whether it's substance abuse or pregnancy, she has vital information and support to help meet the needs of our students.  We also have guidance counselors and a social worker available to work with our students and families.  I encourage you not to wait until you are in trouble.  Seek help early!

In closing, I want to restate my commitment to ensuring that SHS has a safe and orderly learning environment for students, teachers, staff and the community.  This is a group effort though.  I ask that parents and other concerned citizens work with us, not against us.  Our students deserve that!  Please also know that I am open to suggestions and I value your input.  Thanks for all you do and have an Incredible Week!