Academics

Academic Honesty

All students are expected to exhibit honesty in their work and expect the same from others.  Students are expected to do their own work in all cases except when teachers give explicit instruction or permission to work with others.

Academic dishonesty is any attempt to secure an assignment or assessment score that does not reflect the original, authentic work of the student. As a guiding principle, academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, cheating on school assessments, plagiarism or collusion.

Students are responsible for knowing and avoiding the various forms and levels of academic dishonesty which may include, but are not limited to the classifications below:

• Copying homework or allowing someone to copy your homework. 
• Letting a project partner do all the work and just putting your name on the final project. 
• Sharing test questions and/or answers on a test with other students either verbally or electronically.
• Looking at another student’s test/quiz or allowing another student(s) to copy a test/quiz. 
• Submitting other’s work as your own with or without the other person’s knowledge (i.e., plagiarism). 
• Submitting the same paper or substantially similar papers to meet the requirements of more than one or the same course without the prior approval of instructors concerned.
• Using an AI tool to give a false representation of understanding on an academic evaluation when it has not been authorized by the instructor.

In addition, a student who allows others to use their work in fulfillment of class requirements will also be held accountable. Work in question will be confiscated. Academic dishonesty may result in the following:

1st offense: The incident is documented in Skyward as a Major Behavior Intervention Referral. The teacher will discuss the incident with the student, explaining why the behavior is unacceptable. The student will meet with an administrator and detention will be assigned. A phone call will be made to the parents/guardians to inform them of the incident and consequences. 

2nd offense: The incident is documented in Skyward as a Major Behavior Intervention Referral. The teacher will discuss the unacceptable behavior with the student. The student will be assigned in-school suspension for one day. A conference will be scheduled with the student, parents/guardians, and a school administrator to discuss the repeated behavior and the consequences.

3rd offense: The incident is documented in Skyward as a Major Behavior Intervention Referral. The teacher will discuss the unacceptable behavior with the student. The student will be suspended out of school for one day as well as suspended in school for one day. A parent/guardian and administrator conference will be held to discuss the outcome for the class and future educational placement. 

Per Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL), Academic dishonesty will be assessed as a Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) violation for those students involved in activities. Penalties assessed will be determined by the principal and/or activities director.

Advanced Placement (AP)

Students have the opportunity to take a variety of AP classes. These courses may include Biology, Calculus, Literature and Composition, Psychology, Spanish, Statistics, US Government, US History, and World History. The rigor and workload in each of these classes is intended to be at a very high level and has a nationally approved curriculum. As a result, grades for each of these courses are weighted.  A weighted grade has an additional (0.5) added to the grade point (e.g., A = 4.5, B = 3.5, et cetera). AP exams are given for each course every spring and students may be granted college credit based on qualifying scores. Every student taking an AP class is strongly encouraged to take these AP exams. AP Review courses are intended to help students prepare for the AP exam and are not weighted.  

Alternative Programs

STEPS
The SRRHS STEPS program is designed to assist students in grades 11 and 12 with educational needs that cannot be met within the current program and/or services.  The program will offer a highly structured, self-contained learning environment with equal emphasis on the teaching of academics and learning behavioral/social skills. Exemplary attendance and respect for others are required for students to remain enrolled.  Students must be chemically free, maintain good attendance and behavior, and maintain progress towards graduation according to each program’s standards. Students who are interested in this program should contact their counselor. If a student qualifies for the program, they must be approved by the Student Intervention Resource Group (SIRG), based on availability of space and state-approved criteria.        

College in the Classroom

Students have the opportunity to earn college credit while attending classes at the high school. St. Cloud State University offers Huskies in the High School college credit in the following:

College English (ENGL 184), College Writing (191), College Chemistry (CHEM 160), College Physics (PHYS 103), College Economics (ECON 201), Pre-Calculus (MATH 115), Spanish 3 (SPAN 201), Spanish 4 (SPAN 202), College Personal Finance (FIRE 201).     

Credits

Each student must be enrolled in seven credits/classes each semester unless they are participating in an alternative program such as STEPS or Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO). Students will typically earn up to 14 credits during the school year. For students who have a deficit of credits, there are opportunities through credit recovery programs to earn more than 14 credits. These options include Storm Central, ALC, summer school and the STEPS program. A student may earn a maximum of 21 credits during the school year (including summer school). Each school year officially begins with summer school and continues through the traditional school year.   

Grade Point Average (GPA)

Each student will have a Grade Point Average (GPA) calculated for the recent semester and their cumulative high school career. The cumulative GPA is the basis for each student’s overall class rank, while the semester GPA is the basis for the semester honor roll. A student’s final rank will be based on their cumulative GPA at the end of the graduation year of the class in which they are a student.  
Grading 

Each one period, 47-minute, semester course, will count as one (1) credit. The grading percentages for courses in the high school are as follows:

A+ = 98%	C+ = 78%
A    = 93%	C = 73%
A-   = 90%	C-   = 70%
B+   = 88%	D+  = 68%
B     = 83%	D    = 65%
B-   = 80%

Students who do not achieve 65% will be assigned one of the following:
IP – In Progress (must be completed within 10 school days of the end of the semester) 
F – Failure
Grades are to reflect a student's knowledge or skill in a content area.

Graduation

Ceremony / Guidelines for Participation
Our graduation ceremony is intended for Sauk Rapids-Rice High School students. 

Attendance at the graduation ceremony is a privilege and is entirely voluntary. Students, who have met the established graduation requirements and choose not to participate in the ceremony will be mailed their diplomas as is customary for all students. All students should be aware that participation in graduation is dependent on the qualifications listed below. If participation is not allowed for any reason, any graduation fees will be refunded.

All students planning to graduate from Sauk Rapids-Rice High School must meet the requirements in the Graduation Standards and Requirements section below. In order to qualify for the graduation ceremony, the following rules will apply:

• Students must be in good standing, which includes maintaining regular attendance, positive behavior, and making academic progress in all classes.
• Students must have earned 46 credits by the end of the first  semester. If a student begins the second semester on track to graduate, remains in good standing, and then fails to complete any of the requirements listed below, the student will be allowed to participate in the graduation ceremony.  However, the student will not receive their diploma until all graduation requirements are met.
• Students enrolled in credit recovery programming (STEPS, Storm Central) must have at least 51 credits completed by May 1 in order to participate in the graduation ceremony and ensure inclusion in the graduation program.  
• Students attending another district’s area learning center and wish to take part in graduation ceremonies must contact SRRHS, have at least 51 credits completed by May 1, and have all work completed prior to the graduation ceremony. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the high school office of their intent to participate. Advance notification is required so that preparations can be made for the ceremony and completion of work and credits can be verified.
• Students enrolled in STEPS or an area learning center who do not meet the May 1 credit requirement but do complete all graduation credit requirements by the graduation ceremony may make an appeal to participate in graduation. These appeals will be addressed on a case-by-case basis and there will be no guarantee that their name will be included in the graduation program.
• Students attending Adult Education or graduation equivalency programs have their own graduation programs and will not be included in traditional graduation ceremonies.
• Any student receiving special education services who is on track to complete the requirements of their Individual Education Plan (IEP) for graduation will participate in the ceremonies the year their class graduates.      

Senior Fee
A senior fee of $50 will be administered to cover graduation expenses and senior end of year activities (i.e., senior picnic, senior pizza party, and slideshow, any rental fees or expenses incurred in using the ceremony facility, costs of supervisors, floral arrangements, security, and transportation, et cetera).  If there is a financial concern, contact the high school office.

Graduation Standards and Requirements
Students in grades 9-12 must complete the following semester credits to qualify for graduation. (A credit equals the successful completion of one semester of study or student mastery of applicable standards.) Those credits must meet the following distribution:     

Language Arts:	8 credits in four years; 2 credits per year
Mathematics:	6 credits to reflect coursework in Algebra, Geometry, Algebra 2, and Statistics and Probability
Science:	6 credits including 2 credits in Physical Science, 2 credits in Biology, 1 credit in Physics or Chemistry, and 1 credit in an additional science course Starting with the Class of 2027 6 credits including 2 credits in Earth Science, 2 credits in Biology, and 2 credits in Chemistry or Physics
Social Studies:	8 credits including 2 credits in grade 9 Social Studies, 2credits in American (U.S.) History, 2 credits in World History,1 credit each in Economics, and Government/Citizenship
Additional Requirements:	2 credits in the arts (Art, Music, Dance, Theater, or Media Arts) 2 credits in Physical Education 2 credits in Health Education 1 credit in Personal Finance (Class of 2028 and beyond)
Electives:	Class of 2026 - 20 Class of 2027 - 19 Class of 2028 - 17 Class of 2029 - 16

Valedictorian/Salutatorian
Sauk Rapids-Rice High School will identify the Valedictorian and Salutatorian for the senior class based on cumulative GPA including all grades earned during high school. The student is required to be enrolled at SRRHS for their entire high school career to qualify for this honor. The student with the highest GPA will be named Valedictorian and the second highest GPA will be named Salutatorian. 

Students receiving honors and high honors will be distinguished at the graduation ceremony.

Homework
Sauk Rapids-Rice High School staff assign relevant, challenging, and meaningful homework assignments that reinforce classroom learning objectives.  Homework allows students the opportunity to practice skills, promote competence, and explore or apply knowledge to new settings.  Homework informs teachers and guides for future learning. 

Homework Central and Storm Central
On Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., help is available for all students at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School.   

• Homework Central is staffed by licensed teachers who assist students in completing homework, making up tests, and staying organized. Students do not need to sign up or apply for this opportunity and are welcome to attend as much or as little time as needed.
• Storm Central is an extended day credit recovery program staffed by a licensed teacher. Students interested in this program need to work with their counselor to apply. The program is intended for motivated students working to get back on track for graduation. Attendance and work completion standards are a critical part of this program. 

Honor Roll
Soon after report cards have been issued, the names of the students having achieved A and B honor roll status will be published in the local newspaper.
The grade point average necessary to qualify for the honor roll is:     

• A Honor Roll - 3.667 and higher
• B Honor Roll - 3.000 - 3.666 

To be eligible for the honor roll, a student must have earned at least six (6) credits (5 or more of which are graded) per semester.      

Independent Study
Independent Study (IS) courses are designed to help students meet their educational goals. These courses are taught voluntarily by licensed staff and must be accepted by the instructor and approved through the counseling office and administration.

Students who are interested in participating in an Independent Study must:

• Be either a junior or senior in good academic standing; and
• Have a GPA of 2.5 with B’s or better in the department of the IS; and
• Have a contract form completed and approved before the start of the semester; and 
• Not have more than one IS in any one semester.

Independent Studies may be approved for the following course options:

• Advanced course of study that is not available in our current curriculum; or
• Current course offering that is impossible to fit into a student’s schedule.

These courses are designed to be rigorous, and students will earn graded credit upon completion of all course requirements.
     
Letter - Academic
The purpose of the academic letter is to encourage academic performance by recognizing desirable academic achievement.

Criteria for Selection:

1. A student must earn a grade point average of 3.33 or better in all subjects enrolled for the entire school year.
2. To be eligible, a student must have earned at least six (6) credits (5 or more of which are graded) per semester, and have no grade lower than a C.

Minnesota Honor Society (MHS)
Membership in Minnesota Honor Society (MHS) is based on scholarship, character, leadership, and service.

• Scholarship: To qualify for MHS, juniors must earn a cumulative 3.8 GPA and seniors must earn a cumulative 3.7 GPA. Students must also meet the following course requirements:

Course Requirements for MHS

1. Three (3) years of Math (minimum must include Algebra, Geometry and Advanced Algebra)
2. Three (3) years of Science
3. Four (4) years of Social Studies
4. Four (4) years of English/Language Arts (this includes either Composition 12 or Advanced Placement for the writing requirement senior year)

• Character:  Students must exhibit a positive and encouraging attitude that displays respect to both adults and students. This attitude must display the following:

1. Exemplifies desirable qualities of personality (enthusiasm, friendliness, fair play, respect for others);
2. Demonstrates the highest standards of attitude toward honesty and reliability;
3. Attends school regularly except when ill and is seldom tardy for class or meetings;
4. Completes assignments on time; and
5. Complies with the SRR Code of Conduct. 

• Leadership:  Students must display leadership in school, the community, and the classroom. Students should also:

1. Support classmates in their endeavors;
2. Influence others for good both in the classroom and in social situations;
3. Take initiative in planning and organizing functions;
4. See a project through - does not become discouraged; and
5. Be able to get others to work with them and can usually express themselves clearly.

• Service:  Students must be involved in community and/or school activities to better the community around them. Students should:

1. Cheerfully perform duties assigned by advisor;
2. Be willing to work outside the school day when possible;
3. Seldom miss a function or meeting;
4. Show specific instances of good school/community citizenship; and
5. Work well with others.  

Postsecondary Enrollment Options
Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) is a program that allows students in grades 10 through 12 to earn both high school and college credit while still in high school, through enrollment in and successful completion of college-level, nonsectarian courses at eligible participating postsecondary institutions. Most PSEO courses are offered on the campus of the postsecondary institution while some courses are offered online. Each participating college or university sets its own requirements for enrollment into the PSEO courses. Students in grades 11 and 12 may take PSEO courses on a full or part-time basis. Students in grade 10 may take one career/technical PSEO course. If they earn at least a grade C in that class, they may take additional PSEO courses. 

There is no charge to PSEO students for tuition, books or fees for items that are required to participate in a course. Students must meet the PSEO residency and eligibility requirements and abide by participation limits specified in Minnesota Statutes, section 124D.09. Funds are available to help pay transportation expenses for qualifying students to participate in PSEO courses on college campuses. Schools must provide information to all students and their families by March 1, every year. Students must notify their school by May 30 if they want to participate in PSEO for the following school year. For current information about the PSEO program, visit the Minnesota Department of Education’s Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) webpage. At SRRHS, most students engaged in PSEO attend St. Cloud State University or St. Cloud Technical and Community College, but other options are available.

READ Act/Dyslexia Screening 

Participation in statewide assessments aids in the identification of individual student learning needs.  Student participation in state and locally required assessments is a parent/guardian choice.  Parents/Guardians must complete and submit the Statewide Assessments:  Parent/Guardian Decision Not to Participate form to opt out of participation.  Students that do not participate in statewide assessments may not have academic needs identified and may not benefit from academic interventions.

The READ Act requires dyslexia screening, identification and intervention.  In Minnesota, screening for dyslexia is required in grades K-3, with ongoing screening for students in grades 4 and above who are not reading at grade level as evidenced by results from statewide assessments. Minnesota READ Act Legislation (Minnesota Statutes 120B.12) requires schools identify students with characteristics of dyslexia at all grade levels. Schools must identify students not reading at grade level by the end of kindergarten, first, and second grade and screen them for dyslexia.  Students in grades 3 and higher who demonstrate reading difficulties are also screened.  

Statewide Assessments: Parent/Guardian Decision Not to Participate    

Schedule Changes

There are many classes that students can register for at SRRHS. Once a student selects a class and that class is scheduled, it is the responsibility of the student to complete the course. 

Schedule changes are limited and follow the "acceptable" reasons listed below.  In addition, due to many classes being scheduled at student capacity, requests for specific teachers, lunch schedules, or other student requests may not be honored.

Acceptable reasons for a schedule change are:

• A written doctor's excuse which notes that a student must be excused from a particular class
• The class has been determined by the student and the teacher to be beyond the student's ability
• Student acceptance into a special program
• Need to take a required course
• Computer error
• Requested by administration and/or counselors

All schedule changes are to be made within the first five (5) student days of the semester in which the class is scheduled.  Students withdrawing from a course, or dropping, after this date will receive a failing grade for the semester course.  It is the student’s responsibility to check in advance to see if their schedule is accurate and to inform their parents/guardians of any changes.       

Statewide Assessments

Statewide assessments ensure that our curriculum and instruction are aligned with Minnesota’s academic standards, providing an equitable education for all students.  Statewide assessments, in conjunction with other assessments, help staff monitor instruction as we prepare students to enter the workforce and to be engaged citizens.

• Formative assessments are like check-ins during learning. Teachers use them to see how students are understanding the material and to guide what to teach next. These might include classwork, observations, quizzes, or discussions. The goal is to help students grow by giving feedback along the way.
   
• Summative assessments happen after a unit or period of learning. These are used to measure what students have learned. Examples include final projects, unit tests, or state assessments. They help us see how well students have mastered the material.

Both types of assessments help teachers better understand student progress and how to best support each child’s learning needs.

Students in grades three (3) through eleven (11) will take the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA). As a district, we encourage all students to do their best on these tests as they help our teachers plan instruction to better meet student needs.  Teachers and principals review areas where students show/demonstrate growth so they can reinforce the way they teach specific skills. They also look for areas that need improvement and evaluate the need to modify instruction and/or instructional time to better support student learning.  

State tests are given to students once a year, based on a student’s grade level and subject area.  Minnesota Statutes, section 120B.31, Subd. 4a, requires the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) to publish a form for parents/guardians to complete if they refuse to have their student participate in state-required standardized tests. A family that decides to decline their student’s participation in these assessments needs to sign and return the Parent/Guardian Guide and Refusal for Student Participation in Statewide Testing to their student’s school office by January 15.  The guide and refusal form can be found on the district’s website here.

Activities Academic Protocol

The primary focus of Sauk Rapids-Rice High School is academic achievement. Students must maintain satisfactory academic performance in order to participate in extracurricular activities. 

Academic Eligibility and Graduation Credits

Per MSHSL Bylaws 103 and 108, in order for an individual to participate in extracurricular activities, they must be making satisfactory progress toward graduation.  The school where the student is fully enrolled and regularly attends shall determine satisfactory progress.  At Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools, satisfactory progress is determined by the following criteria.

Class of 2026

 

 

Class of 2027

Class of 2028

Class of 2029

Link to Activities Handbook

Failures from a Previous Grading Period - Category 1 Activities 

Definition - Category 1 Activities: Those school-sponsored activities in which there is a schedule of interscholastic contests, exclusive of tournaments or qualifiers. Examples of Category 1 Activities: Baseball, Swimming & Diving, Volleyball, Speech 

Any student registered for a co-curricular activity program who has failed a class in either of the two previous semesters will serve a period of ineligibility.  That period of ineligibility will be determined by the number of total classes failed.  The participant will be ineligible for 5% of their regular season games/contests, per each failed course, rounded to the nearest whole number.  The minimum ineligibility period is 1 contest. The penalty will be served once and will be applied at the start of the participant’s next activity following the failed class. Similar to other activity penalties, the penalty for a failed grade will be considered served upon the participant’s successful completion of the entire season.

Failures from a Previous Grading Period - Category 2 Activities 

Definition - Category 2 Activities: Those school-sponsored activities that do not have a schedule of interscholastic events, and are exclusively comprised of qualifiers, tournaments, local performances, etc.

Examples of Category 2 Activities:  Fall Musical, DECA, One-Act-Play, Visual Arts.

In-Season Academic Checks – Category 1 Activities

Academic Eligibility and Grade Monitoring Policy

Students participating in school-sponsored activities will be subject to bi-weekly grade checks throughout the academic year.

• Academic Monitoring:
• Any student who is failing one or more classes at the time of a grade check will be placed on academic monitoring. While on academic monitoring, the student will have two school weeks to raise all failing grades to passing levels in every enrolled class.
• Ineligibility:
• If, after the two-week monitoring period, the student continues to have any failing grades, they will become academically ineligible to participate in activities. Ineligibility will continue until the student achieves passing grades in all courses.
• Restoring Eligibility:
• Students who become academically ineligible may regain eligibility at any time by providing documentation that they are passing all classes.

This policy is intended to support academic success while encouraging responsibility and accountability among students participating in extracurricular activities.

Academic Dishonesty 

Students who knowingly commit any cheating in relation to their academic courses are considered to have committed academic dishonesty or academic misconduct. This includes all forms of plagiarism. Category 1 activities participants who receive an academic dishonesty major violation will be assessed as a Code of Responsibilities Violation (MSHSL), whereas the penalty will be one contest.  Category 2 activities participants who receive an Academic Dishonesty major violation will have a penalty that is determined by building administration. 

Academic Policy Appeal Process

In highly unique or extraordinary circumstances, participants who have been deemed academically ineligible under the Activities Academic Policies may appeal their ineligibility.

• Filing an Appeal:
  Appeal forms are available in the activities office. Students must complete the appeal form thoroughly and submit it to the activities office by the stated deadline.
• Appeals Committee:
  Once submitted, the appeal will be reviewed by an appeals committee consisting of: one building teacher, one coach or advisor, one building administrator, and one building counselor.
• Approval Requirement:
  For the appeal to be granted, at least three out of the four committee members must vote to approve the appeal.

This process is designed to ensure fairness while maintaining the integrity of academic standards for student participants.

Activity Fees

$200.00	$100.00
B/G Cross Country	Art Club
Football	Theater (Pit/Crew)
B/G Soccer	Knowledge Bowl
Volleyball	Marching Band
B/G Swim & Dive	Speech
B/G Tennis	Robotics
B/G Basketball	Math League
Dance
Gymnastics
B/G Hockey
B/G Lacrosse
B/G Nordic Ski
Wrestling
Baseball
B/G Golf
Softball
B/G Track & Field
Clay Target *

Recommended Procedures for Fee Adjustment:

1. Students who are cut from an activity will be refunded the full fee.
2. Activity fees will be waived for students/families who reach the family cap of $800.00.
3. In athletics, students injured during the first half of the sport season will be refunded half (½) of their fee if they are unable to continue in the activity for the rest of the season.  Students injured during the last half of the season will not receive any refund of fees.
4. If a student begins an activity and then decides to quit of their own accord, they will not be eligible for any refund of fees.
5. Students who are suspended for rules violations will not be eligible for a fee refund. 
6. Any student/family interested in a waiver of any fees must submit the Educational Benefits Application to the district office. If you have a question about having your fee waived, please see the activities director.
7. Students who qualify for Educational Benefits may pay a reduced activity fee.

Activity Passes

SRRHS students are allowed into all activities free of charge by redeeming their GoFan pass. SRRMS students are allowed into all activities free of charge by redeeming their GoFan pass, after they have registered for their first paid activity. This does not include section competitions or the fall musical. Activity passes are available one line and in the activities office for adults and families.  Passes are available for the 2025-2026 school year (fall and winter). Adult Season Pass = $90.00, Family Season Pass = $210.00.

Attendance Policy for Activities
Participation in Sauk Rapids-Rice High School activities is a privilege that comes with responsibility, especially in regard to school attendance. Students involved in school-sponsored activities are expected to be present and on time for all classes in order to participate in practices, games, competitions, or performances.

• Daily Attendance: Students must be in school and on time to all classes to participate in activities that day. Unexcused absences or tardiness may result in loss of eligibility for participation, as determined by the Activities Director and/or Administration.
• Next-Day Attendance: Students involved in evening events are expected to be on time and in attendance for all classes the following day. Failure to do so may result in ineligibility for the next contest.
• Chronic Absenteeism: Missing 10% or more of the school year (chronic absenteeism) will  impact participation in activities, at the discretion of the Activities Director and/or Administration.
• School-Sponsored Events: Activities during the school day are considered class periods. Students will not be granted early release to leave and retrieve items such as clothing, food, or other personal belongings.
• Disciplinary Consequences: Any student serving an all-day in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, or dismissal will not be allowed to participate in any school-sponsored activities that day.

Community Education Opportunities

Research shows that families who are involved in school related activities are more connected and engaged in the school community. Community Education offers a variety of seasonal activities throughout the year.  These activities range from youth sports, cooking, robotics, and many more youth, adult and family opportunities.  Families are encouraged to go online https://www.isd47.org/community/community-education to view the ISD 47 Community Newsletter to get involved in youth and adult activities.

Due Process for Athletics and Extracurricular Activities

Before a student is suspended from an extracurricular activity, the appropriate minimum due process components will be followed.  They include:

1. Regulations governing the eligibility for participation in extracurricular activities and consequences of violations of these rules will be provided to all participants.
2. Students may be suspended from participation in extracurricular activities during an investigation of alleged violation.
3. Any student alleged to have violated the regulations will be provided an opportunity for a conference with the school administration to discuss the infraction, the evidence, and the decision.
4. In unique situations, the school administration may alter the details of the suspension.

Leadership Eligibility

Students holding leadership positions (captain of a team, officer of an organization or club, class candidates for Homecoming, Snow Days, et cetera) for any activity under the umbrella of the activities department who are found in violation of Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) and/or ISD 47 rules which result in a loss of participation opportunities will be removed from their position of leadership and will be ineligible to hold another such position for the period of one (1) calendar year. If extenuating circumstances warrant, the student may appeal this restriction by initiating a discussion with the coach/advisor involved, the principal, or activities director.

Spectator Behavior

All are encouraged to attend, have fun, and positively support the Storm at events. Spectators represent our schools and community and are to follow the SRR Code of Conduct, the Central Lakes Conference (CLC) sportsmanship code, and the rules of the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL). All students and spectators are expected to show respect towards other students, opponents, players, coaches, and officials. Harassment of any kind, profanity, inappropriate gestures, and vulgar cheers are not allowed. Consequences for inappropriate behavior may include warnings, removal from the contest, suspension of attendance at future activities, and other school consequences as deemed necessary.

Transportation for Activities

All team or group members are expected to travel on-board the school-contracted transportation (bus or van) with the team or group, to and from contests on trips where transportation is provided by the district. Under no circumstances should a student drive themselves or others to/from contests. The student may travel home from the event with their parents/guardians, only if the parent/guardian requests this of the head coach or activities director in advance and signs the student out with the coaches upon leaving. Any alternate transportation to and from contests must be arranged ahead of time with the activities office.

For practices off site, all students must provide a permission slip to drive or ride. Permission forms are available in the activities office.

MSHSL Bylaws

Sauk Rapids-Rice has adopted all of the bylaws set forth by the Minnesota State High School League. All student participants are expected to follow, and accept all consequences for violating a bylaw. Bylaws include, but are not limited to:

• MSHSL Bylaw 205 - Chemical Eligibility
• MSHSL Bylaw 206 - Good Standing: Code of Responsibility
• MSHSL Bylaw 209 - Sexual/Racial/Religious Harassment/Violence and Hazing

For more information on the MSHSL Bylaws, please reference the Sauk Rapids-Rice Activities Handbook.

 

 

Attendance Information

The school reserves the right to refuse excusing an absence. A student is allowed up to fifteen (15) excused absences during the school year. Once a student has fifteen (15) absences during the school year, all future absences will be considered unexcused unless medical documentation, signed by a medical authority* (*Medical doctor, clinical psychologist, physician assistant or nurse practitioner who has seen or treated the student) for the full absence, is presented to the school. An excused absence indicates an absence from school with parent/guardian and school permission. The following absences are considered excused within the fifteen (15) days per school year:

Parents/Guardians are to call the attendance office 320-253-4700 prior to 8:30 a.m. to report student absences.  Upon returning to school, the student must bring a written note signed by the parent/guardian stating the time, date, and reason for the absence.  This note is required for the absence to be considered to be excused.  A note from a parent/guardian does not guarantee that an absence is excused.

Students who have an approved pass to leave school during the school day must sign out in the main office to remain excused.  Leaving school without prior permission from the parent/guardian and school constitutes truancy.  If a student returns the same day, they are required to sign-in at the main office.  For attendance purposes, a day includes absences from one or more class periods during the school day.  The school reserves the right to refuse excusing an absence when requests become excessive.  

Students who become ill during the school day must report to the health services office. If a student is sent home due to illness during the school day, health services office personnel will make the necessary arrangements (according to the Skyward emergency contacts).  Students who are ill must never leave the building without reporting to the health services office and must have prior parent/guardian and school permission to leave. Students not attending their regular schedule or leaving the school building without arranging the necessary permission of the health services personnel will be marked truant even if parents/guardians excuse the absence. 

Absences - Excused

To be considered an excused absence, the student’s parent/guardian may be asked to verify, in writing, the reason for the student’s absence from school. A document signed by a medical authority* stating that the student cannot attend school is a valid excuse. Students who will be or have been absent and are returning to school will report to the main office to present a written verification, signed by their parent/guardian, stating the date(s) and reason for their absence.

(*Medical doctor, clinical psychologist, physician assistant or nurse practitioner who has seen or treated the student.)

The following reasons shall be sufficient to constitute excused absences:

1. Illness of the student 
2. Serious illness in the student’s immediate family
3. A death or funeral in the student’s immediate family or of a close friend or relative
4. Medical, dental, or orthodontic treatment, or a counseling appointment, with verification from the provider. Or other appointments with verification or prior approval.
5. Court appearances occasioned by family or personal action
6. Religious instruction not to exceed three hours in any week (per district policy)
7. Physical emergency conditions such as fire, flood, storm, et cetera
8. Official school field trip or other school-sponsored outing
9. Removal of a student pursuant to a suspension (suspensions are to be handled as excused absences and students will be permitted to complete make-up work)
10. Family emergencies
11. Active duty in any military branch of the United States
12. A student’s condition that requires ongoing treatment for a mental health diagnosis

Absences - Unexcused

Unexcused absence indicates that the student is absent from school for reasons other than those listed under Excused Absences. Responses to unexcused absences will be handled per the guidelines of the Code of Conduct. The following are examples of absences that will not be excused:

1. Truancy (student absence that has not been approved by the parent/guardian and/or the school district)
2. Any absence in which the student failed to comply with any reporting requirements of the school district’s attendance procedures
3. Work at home
4. Work at a business, except under a school-sponsored work release program
5. Vacations with family without pre-approval 
6. Any other absence not included under the attendance procedures set out in school district policies and guidelines  

Make-up Work

If a student is absent they are expected to complete all work, assessments, and/or projects upon their return.   

Prearranged Absences

Students who are absent because of activities, vacations, and other scheduled or pre-arranged activities should notify the high school office at least two (2) days before their absence or the absence may be considered unexcused/truant. Homework should be completed in advance of the absence or other arrangements must be made with your teachers.    

School Sponsored Absences

School sponsored absences are excused absences. Students involved in courses or school sponsored activities that will cause them to miss class time are responsible for notifying teachers before their absence. Students should work with teachers to ensure they are receiving and completing missing work. Students are responsible for making up work ahead of time when possible and/or when requested by teachers.     

Students Eighteen Years Old

District policies and regulations apply to all students regardless of age. Those students who are legally adults are subject to the same disciplinary actions as other students and should expect their parents/guardians to be informed of problems with attendance and behavior. Eighteen-year old students still living at home will continue to be required to have parental excuses for any absences or tardies.  

Tardy Protocol 

Students arriving late to school must report directly to the high school office. Tardies to first period are addressed in the high school office. Students will sign in at the Tardy Kiosk and automated communication with parent/guardian will occur. The classroom teacher will record tardies for periods two (2) through seven (7) and refer students in Skyward after their 5th tardy for that class. Exceeding five (5) tardies in a semester will result in progressive disciplinary action. In an effort to reduce class disruptions and to honor the learning of others, chronic tardiness to school may result in removal from class until the next passing time/class period.     

Truancy

Truancy is an absence by a student that was not approved by the parent/guardian and/or the school district. A habitual truant is a child under the age of 17 years who is absent from attendance at school without lawful excuse for seven (7) school days if the child is in elementary school or for one (1) or more class periods on seven (7) school days if the child is in middle school, junior high school, or high school, or a child who is 16 or 17 years of age who is absent from attendance at school without lawful excuse for one (1) or more class periods on seven (7) school days and who has not lawfully withdrawn from school.  A school district attendance officer shall refer a habitual truant child and the child’s parent/guardian to appropriate services and procedures, under Minnesota Statute Ch. 260A. Benton, Stearns, and Sherburne counties each have truancy programs with differing criteria. The Sauk Rapids-Rice High School will follow county guidelines regarding unexcused absences/truancy. The school 

will notify parents/guardians after three (3) such absences, notify the County Attorney’s Office after five (5) such absences, and notify the County Human Social Service supervisor after seven (7) such absences.

Before School and After School Expectations

School doors open to students at 7:30 a.m. Breakfast is served beginning at 7:50 a.m. and is free for all students. Students are expected to show respect and responsibility by cleaning up after themselves, keep voices at an indoor level, be welcoming to all students, and stay in the commons or classroom areas.  The first bell rings at 8:13 a.m. with classes starting at 8:20 a.m.

Classes end at 3:20 p.m.  Buses depart Sauk Rapids-Rice High School at approximately 3:30 p.m.  Students not involved in an activity or attending Homework Central are to exit the building immediately after school. Parent/Guardian pick-up and drop off is at Door 1 on the south side of the building.     

Bicycles and Other Personalized Transportation

Students who bike to school are to use the bike racks provided on the south and west sides of the building.  Items such as skateboards, rollerblades, scooters, wheelies, and bicycles are not allowed in the building     

Cell Phones and Personal Electronic Devices

Cell phones have become an integral part of our daily lives, including those of our high school students. However, there continues to be increasing concern regarding the potential risks associated with cell phone use in schools including but not limited to; learning distractions for self and others, student privacy breaches, and student safety concerns. To maintain a safe and secure learning environment for all, Sauk Rapids-Rice High School has implemented  the following policy regarding personal device usage during the school day: 

With the exception of lunch and passing times, the use of cell phones and other personal devices (wearables, earbuds, tablets, etc) will not be permitted during the school day, from 8:20 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. In the event parents/guardians need to be in contact with their student, they are asked to call the main office and the message will be relayed to students. 

Consequences for violating cell phone use during class time: 

1st offense: Device is confiscated and brought to the office for the student to pick up at the end of the school day following a conversation with an administrator.

2nd offense: Device is taken to the office and communication is made with the student to notify parent/guardian of their second personal electronics offense. The device will be picked up by the parent/guardian.

3rd offense: Device is taken to the office, parent/guardian must pick it up. Going forward the device must be checked into the office at the start of each school day.

Progressive disciplinary action will be taken for each violation following the 3rd offense. 

Any student refusing to turn over a device or becoming disrespectful/defiant with a staff member requesting a device to be turned over will result in further disciplinary action including but not limited to removal from class.

District Personal Electronic Device Alignment:

School Site

• Elementary:  No Personal Device Privileges
• Middle School: No Personal Device Privileges
• High School : Personal Device Privileges During Lunch and Passing Time

The faculty, staff, and students of SRRHS maintain a reasonable expectation of privacy while at school, on campus, and at school-related activities and events. Explicit permission must be obtained prior to recording others. A student identified as improperly posting to social media or using a device to take or transmit unrequested or unwanted images or recordings may face an immediate suspension, loss of privileges, or may be recommended for expulsion.

Laser pointers are prohibited from school. 

Closed Campus

The Sauk Rapids-Rice Board of Education has declared the campus of Sauk Rapids-Rice High School to be a closed campus. All individuals, including students, entering the building during school hours must use Door 1. All doors to the high school will be locked during the school day. Students are required to be in attendance for the entire day. 

Lunch is provided at the high school, and students are required to eat on campus. Unexcused absences during the lunch period will be handled according to the SRR Code of Conduct.  Students are not allowed to order food from off-site vendors during school hours to be delivered to school without prior approval of the administration. This includes students and parents/guardians bringing in food from outside vendors during the school day. 

Dances

All school policies and the SRR Code of Conduct are enforced at dances. Students who violate school policy (i.e., fighting, tobacco, alcohol, chemicals, insubordination, inappropriate behavior, et cetera) may not be admitted to any future dances.  This consequence includes prom. For safety purposes, once a student leaves a dance, they may not be readmitted.   

Winter formal is open to all SRRHS students and their approved guests. Guests must be in at least ninth grade, in good standing at their school, or not older than 20 years of age.

Prom is open to all junior and senior SRRHS students and their approved guests. For prom, all guests must be in at least tenth grade and in good standing at their school or not older than 20 years of age. Any other school-sponsored dances are intended for current students of SRRHS exclusively.   

Dance expectations promoted by the Student Council and enforced by the school include:

1. Tickets must be purchased in advance for guests; and
2. Guest passes must be approved through the main office,
   1. Passes will be issued according to the guest pass schedule advertised for each dance
   2. Guests who are not students at SRRHS must provide a picture ID and have parent/guardian signature to be considered, and 
   3. Law enforcement may be scheduled/hired for each dance.     

Dress Guidelines

SRRHS dress expectations are intended to promote a positive learning environment.  The purpose of a dress code is for students to be dressed appropriately so as not to disrupt the educational process. Students who violate the dress guidelines will be asked to change. Students refusing to remedy the situation will be sent to the office and parents/guardians may be notified. Repeated infractions or failure to comply with administrators or staff members may result in further disciplinary action.

The following list is not comprehensive and any apparel deemed disruptive or inappropriate by administrative staff will not be allowed. 

• Includes violent or disruptive language or images 
• Includes images or language depicting/promoting gangs, tobacco, drugs, or alcohol (or any illegal item or activity),
• Includes the use of hate speech, profanity, sexual content, explicit images, or language that creates a hostile or intimidating environment based on any protected class 
• Exposes visible undergarments, bathing suits  
• Obstructs the view of the face, masks (not medically related) 
• Blankets, flags/capes, sunglasses, and costumes (or parts of costumes) can not be worn (animal ears/horns/tails/wings).
• Painted faces or disguises are not allowed
• Shoes must be worn at all times 

An organized, school sponsored, student group may recommend a form of dress for students considered appropriate for a specific event and make such recommendation to administration for approval. Wearing hats and hoods is a privilege. Students who choose to wear hats or hoods should wear them in such a fashion that their face is easily visible. Hats are subject to the same guidelines as all other clothing.  If a staff member requests the removal of a hat or hood, students must comply.  Staff members may restrict the wearing of hats and/or hoods in their courses or classrooms. A hat may also be confiscated if it is a distraction to the class or school environment. It is customary and respectful to remove all hats and hoods during the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem.

Headwear will be allowed as long as the student’s face is visible. Staff reserves the right to ask students to remove headwear if it causes a disruption to learning and the educational process.

The content of this section shall not infringe on an individual’s right to dress in accordance with sincerely held religious observance and practice.

e-Learning Days (Weather Related)

e-Learning days will be utilized during the 2025-2026 school year after the first (1st) full day cancellation.  The second (2nd) through sixth (6th) full day cancellations will be replaced with e-Learning days. If full day cancellations continue beyond the sixth (6th) full day, the subsequent days will be made up in person. When an e-Learning day occurs, students and parents/guardians will be informed that the day is an e-Learning day via the district’s notification system, Schoology, email and/or social media.  Attendance will be tracked by completion of assigned activities.  Students will be provided adequate time to complete the work including time after returning to school if needed.

Flowers / Balloons

Due to serious allergic risks to students and staff the main office will not accept delivery of or keep flowers/balloons in the office for students.  Under no circumstances are latex balloons to be brought into the building.     

Food and Beverage

Food and beverages are permitted in certain areas within the high school including the Commons, Forum and most activity areas. All food and beverages are prohibited in the PAC. Students will need teacher permission to bring food and/or drink into the academic areas.  

Harmful and Disruptive Items

Because of the danger and/or annoyance caused by certain items, they are not allowed in school or on school property. Disruptive items include, but are not limited to: laser pointers, water/nerf/toy guns, rubber bands, whistles, noise makers, aerosol spray, fireworks, snowballs, hacky sacks, Bluetooth speakers, toys, and other similar devices/items which disrupt the orderly process of education. Disruptive activities are those that may be harmful, cause injury, or disrupt the orderly process of education.

Incident Reporting

We are proud of our positive school climate at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School and expect all students to follow our core values of School Engagement, Respect, and Responsibility (see SRR Matrix at the end of this document). If you see anything that could affect the safety or welfare of others, report it immediately. Unsafe behaviors or items are to be reported to the main office or a teacher through verbal or written (i.e., student email, student report form, note, etc.) communication. The reporting student’s right to privacy will be respected as much as possible. The Bullying Prohibition Policy (514) can be found here.

Lost and Found

Turn in articles to either the high school office or the activities office and an attempt will be made to find the owner. If you lose something at school, alert the high school office.

Lunch Room

During assigned lunch periods, students are to report to the commons and remain there until released by staff or the bell. Students needing to leave the commons during lunch should have a pre-signed pass to a supervised area and check out with staff lunch supervisors. 

Students are responsible for cleaning their table area prior to leaving the commons. This includes taking care of trays, cleaning tables, and stacking chairs when needed. 

Students who wish to eat their lunch in a smaller, quieter environment have the option to eat in the career center.

Students are not allowed to order food from off-site vendors during school hours to be delivered to school without prior approval of the administration. This includes students and parents/guardians bringing in food from outside vendors during lunch periods. Students who misbehave in the lunchroom will be assigned an alternative lunch space.

Media Center

The media center is open from 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.  In the media center, students have access to research resources, books, and magazines, as well as areas for studying. 

Media staff are available to help students with technology questions, book selection, or finding research information.  Access, support, and questions regarding technology are addressed in the high school media center.  

To maintain a positive atmosphere in the media center, the following rules apply:

1. Food is not allowed in the media center.  
2. Any student use of audio on the computers requires the use of personal headphones in order to respect the rights of others in the media center.  
3. Teachers may send students to the media center during class times with an ehallpass. 

Parking

Students who drive to school must register their vehicle in the main office and have a valid parking permit displayed at all times. Forms and permits are available before school and during lunchtime, and also during open house. Student parking will be in the south and southwest lots (the lot directly in front of the main entrance – Door 1 and immediately west and south of Door 6).  

The cost of a student parking permit is $120.00 (non-refundable/non-transferable) and is valid for the student’s entire high school career. Any student who loses a valid parking permit may buy a replacement permit at a price of $10.00.

The student parking lot (South Lot) will be randomly checked.  Students parked inappropriately may have wheel locks attached to their vehicles and a $30.00 first offense fee, a $60.00 second offense fee, and a $90.00 third offense fee will be charged to get them removed.  Further offenses will result in parking privileges being revoked.  Wheel locks will be removed between 3:20 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.  

Students are expected to park their vehicle and immediately come into the building. Loitering in the parking lot is not allowed.

Passes/Halls

Students are not to be in the hallways without an electronic pass during class time.  Passes may be issued by teachers, paraprofessionals, and the office staff.  If you wish to see a teacher during their prep or duty period, you must arrange this in advance. 

Public Displays of Affection

Students are expected to maintain and project a positive image including appropriate physical contact.  School is not the place for a public display of affection.  Behaviors in question could include, but are not limited to: kissing, inappropriate touching, laying across partner and arms around partner.  If the behavior is in question or makes others uncomfortable, the student(s) will be asked to stop and/or refrain from the behavior.  If it continues, the student(s) will be referred to administration and the SRR Code of Conduct will be followed.   

School Property

Lockers
Student lockers are the property of the school.  They are provided for student use by the school and are subject to periodic inspections for cleanliness, suspicion of stolen property, or the potential for containing items deemed potentially harmful to students, the school building, or unlawfully obtained. Students are responsible for the care and upkeep of school lockers and will be personally responsible for any repairs or damage to assigned lockers.  Lockers should be used to keep textbooks, lunch, school materials, coats, et cetera.  Students should not keep money or valuables in their lockers (turn valuables/money into the office for safe keeping).  Do not give your locker combination to any other student.   

Locker Rooms
All students in a physical education class or in a current athletic activity will be issued a gym locker and school owned lock. It will be the responsibility of students to use and care for their lockers and locks. A $10.00 fee will be assessed if student locks need to be replaced. The use of electronic devices is prohibited in all locker room spaces. The locker room area is not supervised unless students are in attendance for a scheduled class or activity. Please do not leave valuables in gym lockers. Students are responsible for the contents of their locker and are subject to the same guidelines as school lockers listed above. Students are not to be in the locker rooms unless they are participating in a physical education class or an athletic activity. Athletic locker rooms will not be accessible during the school day.     

MacBook
Laptop devices are the property of the school district and students are expected to follow the guidelines outlined in the Device and Network Agreement. The agreement explains student responsibilities, parent/guardian expectations, terms of device loan, general care instructions, fees, security and theft prevention, and issues related to damage, theft, and repair. Please consult the Device and Network Agreement for more information.

Textbooks
Textbooks are issued to students free of charge.  Students are expected to take care of textbooks and cover them whenever possible. Students issued school property will be financially responsible for the property and are expected to return it in the same approximate condition as it was given.      

Telephone Calls/Messages

Parents/Guardians calling the school to leave messages for their child should give their message to the school administrative assistant to be relayed to the student at a convenient time.  Students will not be called to the telephone except in an emergency.  Students are allowed to use their cell phones during passing time, lunch time, and before and after school.

Visitors

Visitors during school hours with legitimate business are expected to enter Door 1 and register in the main office with a valid ID or driver's license. When done, visitors must sign out and exit from the main office. SRRHS does allow students who are part-time or full-time PSEO to access the building by signing into the main office and working with administration to plan on a working location in the Media Center. SRRHS does not allow student visitors from other schools or student shadowing. ISD 47 reserves the right to deny any person access to district buildings or property for just cause. 

 

Code of Conduct Statement

In order to support our school climate initiatives, Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools use evidence-based strategies to support positive student development. Some of these strategies include Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), Social Emotional Learning Competencies (SEL), Conscious Discipline, and Restorative Practices.

The Code of Conduct is a guideline for standards to student behavior. It outlines student rights, responsibilities, and opportunities at school and allows schools to build specific guidelines, expectations, and supports for all students. The Code of Conduct provides definitions and levels of behavior, intervention and response.  There are five (5) levels of behaviors, from minor infractions handled in the classroom, to major infractions handled by administration. In alignment with the SRR Code of Conduct, the following link is a Guideline to Behavior Interventions implemented here at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School.

The authority, procedure, notification and time frame to remove pupils from the classroom at Sauk Rapids-Rice High School:

Removal - One Class Period:

• When a student is in violation of the SRR Code of Conduct a teacher may remove a student to the office.  The teacher shall write up a Skyward behavior referral and communicate with the student that they received said referral. The parent/guardian shall be contacted, via the phone, by the teacher.
• An administrator or designee will hold a conference with the student to review the behavior referral, and to process next steps to include but not be limited to reteaching SRR Core Values and creating a plan for success.
• Students will be provided an alternative learning space for the remainder of the class period.

Removal - Multiple Violations:

• A student who violates the SRR Code of Conduct multiple times after a plan for success has been created is considered a chronic offender. The teacher shall write up a Skyward behavior referral and communicate with the student that they received a referral for ongoing or disruptive behavior.  
• An administrator will hold a conference with the student and make a decision as to the type of interventions/consequences to be implemented which could include removal from class, detention, and/or suspension, or school program modifications.
• The parent/guardian shall be contacted, via the phone, by the teacher or administrator to determine next steps.

Nothing in this section precludes removal of students from class and/or school for serious offenses in accordance with the Pupil Fair Dismissal Law of 1974.

To view the Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools Code of Conduct in its entirety, please click here.    

Bus Expectations

The district provides bus transportation for all resident students. It is the responsibility of each student riding the bus to behave properly. Driving demands the bus driver's full attention. For the safety of everyone, do not distract the driver. Transportation supplied by the school is a privilege and may be refused to anyone causing a disturbance on the bus. (See: District Policy 707 - Transportation of Public School Students on the district website.) All district policies and the SRR Code of Conduct apply while on district transportation.
Do not attempt to stop a moving school bus or attempt to stop a bus that is about to depart. Running behind the bus, off the sidewalk, alongside the bus, reaching to strike the side of a bus, or moving into the path of the bus is a willful entry into the school bus danger zone.

If you wish to be a guest rider on a bus other than your own, and/or get off at a stop other than your own, a parent /guardian must contact the transportation department 320-258-1995 to obtain permission. 

Any object brought on a school bus must be of a size that allows it to be held and controlled by its carrier. Objects with sharp and/or protruding edges must be contained within a protective covering. The bus driver has the responsibility to refuse to transport any object thought unsafe. If you have concerns regarding violations and/or safety at a bus stop or on board a bus, please call the transportation department at 320-258-1995.  Riding the school bus is part of the school day and school rules, with appropriate consequences for inappropriate behavior will apply.  After a bus violation, the transportation department may request a conference to reinstate the student’s riding privileges.

(PBIS/Core Values) 

Sauk Rapids-Rice High School is a PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports) school. PBIS refers to a school-wide data driven system. We teach behavioral expectations in the same manner as we would math or reading. We do not expect that students automatically know how to behave in certain situations or environments. There are systems in place to encourage positive behavior and reteach expected behaviors to struggling students.

Storm Room

The Storm Room supports students in recognizing their behaviors, making appropriate choices, and accepting consequences.

Student Engagement – Respect – Responsibility 

At Sauk Rapids-Rice High School, it is our goal to engage all students and families in a positive educational experience. We encourage staff and students to exemplify SRR Pride through our core values of School Engagement, Respect, and Responsibility.  (See Appendix for complete SRR Matrix)     

Tennessen

Minnesota Statute 13.04 requires that school districts provide the following warning or notice to parents/guardians and students.  They should be advised that:

1. Students attending school in the school district, or their parents/guardians, will be asked to supply information to school personnel in the ordinary course of school business.  This may include information requests such as homework assignments or tests, questions asked of students during classroom discussions or other classroom activities, information requested of students or parents/guardians relating to a student’s participation in school-related athletic or extra-curricular activities, or questions asked of students or parents/guardians during a scheduled or an informal conference with a teacher or administrator, either by telephone or in person, relating to the student’s behavior or academic performance.
2. The information will be collected by the district in order to evaluate the student’s current level of performance with respect to educational programs. To maintain discipline within the school, and to determine the student’s needs and preferences relating to the education program. The education program includes athletic or extra-curricular activities, for purposes of this notice.
3. Students or parents/guardians are not required by any law or regulation to supply the information requested. However, the school district expects that students will participate fully in their educational program by completing homework assignments and tests, participating in classroom discussions and activities, and that students and parents/guardians will participate fully by providing information relating to academic performance, athletic or extra-curricular activities, or behavior.  The consequences for refusing to supply the information requested will relate to the need for the request, and may result in reduced grades, ineligibility to participate in athletic or extra-curricular activities, or, in the case of a school district employee‘s investigation into the student’s behavior, may result in action being taken without complete information.
4. Information collected as described in this notice will be provided to school district personnel or others having a legitimate educational interest in obtaining access to the data, and to state and federal authorities having statutory rights of access to the data.

Conferences

Parent/Guardian student/teacher conferences will be held each semester.  If parents/guardians have a need to meet with a teacher outside of regular conference time, please contact the teacher to arrange the meeting. Families are encouraged to check their student’s academic progress, lunch account, attendance and discipline records using Schoology and Skyward found on the district website (www.isd47.org).   

Line of Communication

Parents/Guardians with questions or concerns are encouraged to communicate directly with their student’s teachers. If the questions or concerns have not been resolved after contact with the teacher, notify the building principal. 

Printed / Posted Materials

Any written material produced, posted, circulated or otherwise distributed on school property must have administrative approval prior to posting/circulation.  All posted materials should have a stamp that states that express authorization has been given by the main office. Postings are to be hung only in the designated areas and must be removed immediately after the event is over.     

Report Cards

The high school operates on a semester schedule and students shall receive their report cards following the close of each grading period. This will typically be at least two weeks after the grading period ends. Parents/Guardians and students who have questions regarding student grades are urged to contact the appropriate teacher.   

School Announcements

Sauk Rapids-Rice High School has a great variety of opportunities for student involvement.  Daily announcements are posted on the http://www.isd47.org website under the high school drop-down, posted on TV’s located throughout the building, and made over the public-address system before, during, and after the school day. In addition, parents/guardians and students will receive announcements through email and Schoology.     

School Closings/Emergencies

In the event of an emergency school closing, due to inclement weather, mechanical malfunction, disaster, potential disaster alert, or similar, students and parents/guardians should first check the school website at www.isd47.org. This website will have the most current information available posted.     

Additional information may be obtained through the following radio stations and websites:

WCCO    WVAL    WWJO    KNSI    WJON   WCCO.COM   KARE11.COM KSTP.COM   FOX9NEWS.COM   

Decisions on school-related events will also be broadcast at a similar time and during closing/late start broadcasts (i.e., extracurriculars, community education and early childhood, recreation, KidStop, Kids Club et cetera).

District Policies

Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools district policies can be found at: https://www.isd47.org/about/district-policies      

Alcohol/Drugs/Tobacco Free

In compliance with the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug Free Schools and Community Act of 1986 as amended 1989 (P.L.101226), the district has made a commitment to maintain an alcohol/drug-free workplace. A student shall not: use a beverage containing alcohol (including attending school under the influence); use tobacco, tobacco-related devices, or electronic cigarettes; or use or consume, have in possession, buy, sell or give away marijuana or any substance defined by law as a drug (see medication policy for legally prescribed medications).  

Electronic cigarette means any oral device that provides a vapor of liquid nicotine, lobelia, and/or other similar substance, and the use or inhalation of which simulates smoking. The term shall include any such devices, whether they are manufactured, distributed, marketed, or sold as e-cigarettes, e-cigars, e-pipes, or under another product name or descriptor.

Students in violation of this rule, in accordance with the Code of Conduct, will be immediately suspended, will be expected to meet and develop a remediation program with the chemical coordinator and SIRG team and may be recommended for expulsion.

ISD 47 is tobacco and smoke free.  Students found smoking or using tobacco will be suspended and may be referred for treatment.  All tobacco products visible to, or located by staff will be confiscated and destroyed.  Possession of tobacco by a person under the age of 21 is a petty misdemeanor. 

Background Checks (404)

Safety is a priority for Sauk Rapids-Rice Schools. In accordance with Minnesota State Statute 123B.03 Subd.1e, and District Policy 404, this will serve as notice that Sauk Rapids-Rice Schools require criminal background checks of applicants who receive an offer of employment with the district. The district also requires background checks of all volunteers, and may require background checks for independent contractors, and student employees at its discretion. The standard lead time required to complete the volunteer background check process is two (2) weeks.      

Bullying Prohibition (514)

A safe and civil environment is needed for students to learn and attain high academic standards and to promote healthy human relationships. Bullying, like other violent or disruptive behavior, is conduct that interferes with students’ ability to learn and teachers’ ability to educate students in a safe environment. The school district cannot monitor the activities of students at all times and eliminate all incidents of bullying between students, particularly when students are not under the direct supervision of school personnel. However, to the extent such conduct affects the educational environment of the school district and the rights and welfare of its students and is within the control of the district in its normal operations, it is the school district’s intent to prevent bullying and to take action to investigate, respond to, and to remediate and discipline those acts of bullying which have not been successfully prevented. The purpose of this policy is to assist the district in its goal of preventing and responding to acts of bullying, intimidation, violence, reprisal, retaliation and other similar disruptive and detrimental behavior.  Refer to the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District Code of Conduct for more information on student rights and responsibilities. District Code of Conduct for more information on student rights and responsibilities.  
District Policy 514 can be found here

Culture of Respect and Acceptance

Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools remains committed to preparing all learners for post-secondary success, creating a culture of academic achievement, and fostering an informed public through increased communication and outreach. Through successful partnerships and continued collaboration, we work to ensure that every child is successful.

In addition to the goals mentioned above, ISD 47 remains committed to maintaining a learning environment that is free from harassment and violence as evidenced by District Policy 413. In particular, district officials acknowledge its obligation under the Minnesota Human Rights Act to prevent harassment on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, including gender identity or expression, or disability.

To accomplish our goals and to meet the commitment of District Policy 413 will require the attention of our students, parents/guardians and district staff, working together to create welcoming and respectful environments for all members of the school district community. The district affirms that it does not tolerate acts of harassment and will promptly respond to concerns or complaints.

Any student or staff member who believes they have been subjected to harassment is encouraged to report the harassment to the district through a building administrator or through the school district’s Human Rights Officer. Complaints of harassment will be investigated and appropriate corrective action will be taken in response to any findings of harassment in violation of District Policy. Action by the school district will be targeted to stop the harassment and to prevent it from recurring. Refer to the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District Code of Conduct for more information on student rights and responsibilities.    

Harassment and Violence (413)

The policy of the school district is to maintain a learning and working environment that is free from all harassment and violence on the basis of Protected Class. The school district prohibits any form of harassment or violence on the basis of Protected Class, which includes but is not limited to all academic, extra-curricular and school-sponsored activities.

The school district will act to investigate all complaints, either formal or informal, verbal or written, of harassment or violence based on a person’s Protected Class, and to discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, or other school personnel who is found to have violated this policy. Refer to the Sauk Rapids-Rice School District Code of Conduct for more information on student rights and responsibilities.
District Policy 413 - Harassment / Violence can be found in its entirety here.  

Mandated Reporting (414)

As professionals in the school setting, it is our legal responsibility to ensure the safety of all children. The state dictates that school professionals are mandated reporters of physical or sexual abuse and neglect. According to Minnesota Statute 626.556 “... it is the policy of this state to require the reporting of neglect, physical or sexual abuse of children in the home, school, and community settings; to provide for the voluntary reporting of abuse or neglect of children; to require a family assessment, when appropriate, as the preferred response to reports not alleging substantial child endangerment; to require an investigation when the report alleges substantial child endangerment; and to provide protective, family support, and family preservation services when needed in appropriate cases.”

Additionally, persons who are mandated to report are “a professional or professional's delegate who is engaged in the practice of the healing arts, social services, hospital administration, psychological or psychiatric treatment, child care, education, correctional supervision, probation and correctional services, or law enforcement.”

District Policy 414 – Mandated Reporting can be found in its entirety here.     

Weapons (501)

A weapon means any object, device, or instrument designed as a weapon or through its use is capable of threatening or producing bodily harm or which may be used to inflict self-injury, including but not limited to: any firearm (whether loaded or unloaded); air guns; pellet guns; BB guns; all knives/blades; clubs; metal knuckles; nun chucks; throwing stars; explosives; fireworks; mace and other propellants; stun guns/tasers; ammunition; poisons; chains; arrows; and objects that have been modified to serve as a weapon.

The school district will follow the Code of Conduct in regard to the possession, use, or distribution of weapons by students. Consequently, the minimum consequence for students possessing, using, or distributing weapons shall include:

1. Immediate out-of-school suspension, and
2. Confiscation of the weapon, and
3. Immediate notification of police, and
4. Parent/Guardian notification, and 
5. Review of incident by the site weapons assessment team, and
6. Recommendation to the superintendent of possible dismissal for a period of time not to exceed one year.

District Policy 501 – School Weapons can be found in its entirety here.  

Directory Information (Public Data)

Details regarding student directory information can be found in District Policy 515 - Protection and Privacy of Pupil Records    

Directory information does not include identifying data that references religion, race, color, social position, or nationality. Any parent/guardian of any student in the district may notify the district of their desire that some or none of the above information is to be released without their consent by contacting the building principal.   

Every parent/guardian of a SRRHS student has the opportunity to opt out of the publishing of their student’s name and/or photographs on the district website, social media, district newsletters, or any other type of publicized information. This should be done in writing using the Opt Out form or by calling the high school office 320-253-4700.

Educational Benefits 

Families may apply for Educational Benefits anytime during the school year. Educational Benefits applications are available to all families in the district prior to the student’s first day of classes. In addition, applications are available at the district office and food service office between 7:30 a.m.– 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, as well as online. 

If you haven’t filled out the Educational Benefits Form yet, you can make a tremendous difference for all SRR students by doing so right away.  

Educational Benefits Form provides free or reduced cost activity fees for students of families that qualify.  Additionally, by filling out this form each year, families may help provide additional funding and resources to benefit all Sauk Rapids-Rice students in other ways.

The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) Educational Benefit Form is used to determine the amount of state and federal funding the district receives to

• The Educational Benefits Form must be completed each school year.
• The Educational Benefits Form does provide free or reduced cost for activities for families that qualify.
• It is important for all families to fill out the form as it can also provide services for all students including, but not limited to 
  • student access to counselors and social workers.
  • support for students who need academic assistance.
  • support for school wide or targeted initiatives.
  • determine what class in which the district’s extracurricular activities teams compete. 

The form must be done no later than December 15 each year.     

Fundraisers

Prior to ordering any item or agreeing to sell or distribute any item in school or representing the school, approval must be granted by either the principal or the activities director prior to the fundraising.  Only Sauk Rapids-Rice-affiliated fundraisers are allowed to be sold/advertised in the building. All fundraisers must be in compliance with the District Policy 511 – Student Fundraising.     

Insurance for Students

Accident plans are available to students attending Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools. One is related to dental protection and the other is medical protection in case of accidental injuries. These programs are in no way mandatory; it is up to each parent/guardian to decide the merit of such a plan. The school district does not provide insurance coverage for students. Insurance coverage is the responsibility of the parent/guardian. More information can be found here.     

Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)

Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) is a framework that focuses on high-quality instruction and intervention matched to individual student needs through monitoring student progress and using the student's progress data for educational planning. The primary focus of the MTSS Framework is to ensure all students succeed and to prevent
academic failure. 

	Warning/Reteach No Documentation Plan to teach a new skill.	Minor Documentation decided by staf. Plan to "Fix-It" or teach skills. 3 or more minors will become a major behavior.	Major Documentation Parent Notification Plan to "Fix-it" or teach skills	Expected Behavior What are the expectations?
Inappropriate Language	Unkind, impolite, inappropriate language	Repeated pattern of unkind, impolite or inappropriate language.	Threatening language or language that specifically targets an individual.	Kind, respectful and school appropriate words.
Defiance	Directive requested was not a safety concern.	Directive requested was a single instance safety concern.	Repeated pattern of not following safety directives.	Follow staff safety direction.
Disruption	Noise making, outside voice level when indoors, attention-seeking jokes or acts, bugging others, etc.	Repeated pattern of disruptive behaviors that are not developmentally appropriate.	Behavior that stops the flow of programming, repetition of behavior following teaching. Exposure or touching of body parts normally covered by a swimsuit.	Be respectful of others' activities and time.
Property Misuse	Not returning items to appropriate places, accidentally damaging property.	Single instance of intentionally damaging property.	Repeated pattern of intentionally damaging property after strategies to teach have been put in place.	Use toys and equipment respectfully and safely.
Leaving the Space	Going right outside the space to calm body, remains in staff sight.	Singular instance of hiding out of sight.	Repeated instances of leaving space without staff knowledge and goes out of sight.	Stay in programming space. Ask a staff person before leaving.
Fighting/Physical Aggression	Rough play, Spitting on the ground	Isolated acts of physical aggression. Spitting at a person once.	Multiple acts of physical aggression. Staff or student accident report is required for incident. Spitting at a person more than once.	Keep body to self. Take a break to calm body.
Leaving School Building			Leaves school building.	Remain in the school building unless outside on the playground.
Leaving School Grounds			Leaves school grounds.	Remain on school grounds.
Possession of weapons or illegal substances		Makes a weapon out of play materials or engages in a game that is violet while on the Chromebook.	Threatening a person or animal with a weapon, any item that could be used as a weapon. Possessing an illegal substance.	Engage in kind behavior and do not threaten others with  weapons or bring illegal substances to school.

Pledge of Allegiance

Students in this school district shall recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America one or more times each week. The recitation shall be conducted: 

1. By each individual classroom teacher or the teacher’s surrogate; or 
2. Over a school intercom system by a person designated by the school principal or other person having administrative control over the school. 

Anyone who does not wish to participate in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance for any personal reasons may elect not to do so. Students and school personnel must respect another person’s right to make that choice.

Student Records

Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools regulations on student information kept by the school complies with the federal and state laws guaranteeing parents/guardians the right to examine and challenge the contents of their children's records.

Others having access to student records include: 

1. School staff having a legitimate educational interest in the student; another school district, college or educational institution in which the student may enroll, and
2. The court system when the records are requested by judicial subpoena.       

Other third parties may have access to records only with written permission of the student, parent, or guardian.  Before records other than directory information (i.e., name and address) are sent to any other person, agency or institution, written consent is required from parents/guardians or eligible students.

A law enforcement agency shall notify the principal or the superintendent or their designee of a juvenile's school of an incident occurring within the agency's jurisdiction if the agency has probable cause to believe that the juvenile has committed an offense that would be a crime if committed as an adult.

Standard Response Procedure/Situational Awareness

The state of Minnesota requires schools to perform at least eleven (11) situational awareness drills.  In partnership with local emergency responders, each district building will perform five (5) fire drills, five (5) lockdown drills, and one (1) severe weather drill per school year. 

The district’s emergency response protocols are HOLD, SECURE, LOCKDOWN, EVACUATE,  and SHELTER. These protocols are used to protect the safety of building occupants from potential dangers in the building as well as if outside the building (i.e., threats, intruders, medical emergencies, severe weather).

A critical ingredient in the safe school recipe is the uniform classroom response to an incident at school. Weather events, fires, accidents, intruders, and other threats to student safety are scenarios that are planned and trained for by school and district administration and staff.

HOLD:  
There are situations that require students and staff to remain in their classrooms or stay out of traffic/access areas.  This could be a medical situation, a water leak, or something else requiring the halls to be clear. Students and staff will conduct business as usual inside the classroom during a HOLD.

SECURE: 
There is a threat or hazard outside of the school building requiring students and staff to remain in their classrooms or indoors. This could be criminal activity in proximity of the school or even an unwanted animal on the playground. Students and staff will conduct business as usual inside the classroom or building during a SECURE.

LOCKDOWN:
There is a threat or hazard inside the building requiring students and staff to gather/shelter/remain in a classroom, lock the door, maintain silence, turn the lights out, and move and remain out of sight.  This could be a custody dispute, an intruder, up to and including an active assailant.  Students and staff invoke situational awareness and prepare to evade or defend if appropriate in a LOCKDOWN.

EVACUATE:
There is a need to move people from one location to another for safety reasons. Evacuation can be on-site for a minor issue or off-site due a mechanical issue, power outage, gas leak, bomb threat or other situations meriting this response.  Students and staff follow evacuation instructions and invoke situational awareness as appropriate during an EVACUATE. 

SHELTER:
There is a threat or hazard outside of the building requiring students and staff to remain in their classroom or designated safe area within the building. This could be due to a tornado, earthquake, hazard materials situation or other local threat. Students and staff invoke situational awareness as appropriate during a SHELTER.    

Searches

In order to promote safety for all, the principal or their designee have the authority to conduct a search, including the use of a metal detecting wand.  The scope of a search may include a student's person and areas over which they have control, including but not being limited to: cell phones; computer files; purses; backpacks; any locker assigned to the student by the school; and the student's vehicle.  The administrator must have reasonable cause to believe that, under the circumstances, the student may have concealed evidence of misconduct in areas under their control.  This includes measures taken to keep the school free of chemicals/drugs. Therefore, at times, designated by administration, searches will be conducted to determine the presence of any chemicals/drugs or related paraphernalia. These searches may be conducted on all school property and may utilize law enforcement resources including K-9’s (dogs).

Suicide Prevention

If you need suicide or mental health crisis support, or are worried about someone else, please call or text 988 or visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline chat to connect with a trained crisis specialist

• There are three ways you can connect to the Lifeline: calls, text, and online chats.
• You can connect anytime 24/7, 365 days a year.
• Support is provided by a trained crisis specialist and is free and confidential

Four County Crisis Response Team is available 24 hours a day 

• Serves adults, youth and children in 
  • Benton County 320-253-5555 or 1-800-635-8008 
  • Stearns County 320-253-5555 or 1-800-635-8008 
  • Sherburne County 320-253-5555 or 1-800-635-8008 
  • Wright County 320-253-5555 or 1-800-635-8008

The Morrison County Crisis Response Team serves adults, youth and children and is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-462-5525

Trespass Notice

Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools reserves the right to deny any person access to the district’s buildings or property for just cause. Just cause may include but is not limited to threatening or disruptive behavior, improper or illegal behavior, or any activity by a person which materially and/or substantially interferes with district programs, classes, activities, or other events.  Upon determination by school district authorities that a person’s behavior represents a danger or a serious disruption, such a trespass notice can be served on that person limiting access to district buildings and grounds for a specific period of time.  Notification of such trespass notice will be given to local law enforcement authorities.  If the person served the trespass notice fails to leave and stay away, police will be called and trespass charges will be filed. Sauk Rapids-Rice High School does not allow student visitors or student shadowing. Any person who is not a student or staff member of SRRHS will be asked to leave.

Counseling and Guidance Services

The guidance counselors help students with academic concerns, personal concerns, selection of courses of study, selection of college or technical schools, assistance with other post-secondary plans, testing/interpreting test results, scholarships and financial aid. The counselors work closely with both staff and students.  Students are asked to make appointments during non-scheduled time (before/after school, lunch, passing times) to visit with their counselor.

Students should see their counselor regarding schedule concerns. However, students are reminded to review the Schedule Changes in Academics section of this handbook prior to making an appointment.  Schedule changes must take into account capacities in classes and are not made to request specific teachers, arrange specific lunch schedules, or in the case that students changed their mind on selections.    

Food Service

Parents/Guardians can access their child’s menu choices or their family’s account balance via the “Parents and Families” portal on the district website. To receive a username and password, call the main office, then visit mystudent.isd47.org. 

One breakfast, a complete hot lunch and a supplemental milk are free for all students, effective for the 2025 – 2026 school year. 

While all kindergarten through grade 12 students will be provided one free breakfast and complete lunch per day, second meals, adult meals, additional entrees, ala carte, and/or additional milk servings are not covered under the state funded meal program and will be charged to the family’s food service account. 

2025 - 2026 Meal Prices

• Students
  • 1st Breakfast - Free
    • Additional Student Breakfast - $3.10
    • Milk - $.50
  • 1st Lunch - Free
    • Additional Student Lunch - $5.50
    • Milk - $.50
• Adults
  • Adult Breakfast - $3.10
  • Adult Lunch - $5.50

School meal prices are set by the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) and are subject to change pending MDE direction.

Payments by cash or check can be made at the middle school. Payments can also be made in the food service office, the district office, or online through a student’s Skyward Family Access Account. The link can be found at https://www.isd47.org/portal/student-parent-tools. 

Households are made aware of their family account balance by the following methods: 

• Families can check their student’s meal account balance via Skyward Family Access. 
• Families can contact the office for account balances. 
• The food service department will send an email, text or initiate a phone call to all parents/guardians advising them of the student meal account balance(s) when it falls below $20.01 
• A letter/invoice will be sent via US Post to the household requesting payment. 

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that students receive healthy and nutritious meals through the school district’s nutrition program and that school district employees, families, and students have a shared understanding of expectations regarding meal charges.  The policy of the school district is to provide meals to students in a respectful manner and to maintain the dignity of students by prohibiting lunch shaming or otherwise ostracizing the student. The policy seeks to allow students to receive the nutrition they need to stay focused during the school day and minimize identification of students with insufficient funds to pay for school meals as well as to maintain the financial integrity of the school nutrition program.

District Policy 534 –School Meals Policy can be found in its entirety here.  

Health Services

Accidents
All accidents, no matter how minor, must be reported to the health services office (nurse's office).  An adult witness to the accident should complete an accident/injury report form at that time.  The school does not provide accident insurance but does offer a for purchase policy if the student/parents so choose.  

First aid is administered at school in case of minor injuries.  When necessary, the nurse’s office will contact a student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) to discuss further arrangements.  If a parent/guardian or emergency contact cannot be reached and medical care is necessary, appropriate measures will be taken.  Families should be sure to list current physician information on the student’s emergency card.  In the event a student sees an accident on school grounds or in the building, or experiences an accident, they should report it at once to a teacher or principal.  It is very important that accidents are reported as soon as possible.

Allergies
Because the following items may cause serious allergic reactions for some students, they are not allowed in the building.

• Latex balloons (Mylar balloons are allowed)
• Aerosol products such as deodorants and/or hairsprays, which use an aerosol propellant (hair coloring is permitted, but it must be applied prior to coming to school or boarding the school bus).  Students are discouraged from using temporary hair color with the exception of school special events/days (i.e., Spirit Day).
• Animals may be allowed only for educational purposes and with previous permission from the high school office.

Health Records 
Health records are kept for each student according to Minnesota law.    

Examples of information include: 

• History of past illnesses and operations 
• Dates of immunizations 
• Results of vision and hearing screening 
• Results of professional examinations 

Illness at School
If a student becomes ill at school, they should notify a teacher first and then report to the nurse’s office.  When necessary, parents/guardians will be called to pick up their student from school.  If parents/guardians are unavailable, an alternate emergency contact will be notified.  Be sure forms are accurate and updated at least yearly to ensure the needs of your child are met.  Students not checking in with the health office prior to leaving school because of an illness may be subject to disciplinary consequences.

Immunization Records
Per Minnesota State Statute 121A.15, record of immunizations is required upon enrollment.  Parents/Guardians may indicate that immunizations are contrary to their conscientiously held beliefs.  If you are a conscientious objector, a signed and notarized form is required.

Medication
The Sauk Rapids-Rice Board of Education recognizes that certain students require drugs or medication to treat physical or emotional conditions. It is expected that, whenever possible, treatment for these conditions will occur outside of the school setting. The purpose of this policy is to set forth requirements that must be met when there is a request for a student to receive drugs or medication during school hours.

Definitions:
Drug:  The term drug as defined in 151.01 subd. 5 is a substance intended for external and/or internal use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment or prevention of disease, and all substances and preparations other than food, intended to affect the structure or any function of the body.

Medicine:  The terms medicine or medication means any remedial agent that has the property of curing, preventing, treating, or mitigating disease, or that is used for that purpose.

School Nurse:  The term school nurse means a person who is currently registered and licensed as a registered nurse in Minnesota, certified as a Minnesota Public Health nurse and/or meets other requirements as established by Minnesota Rule 8700.9100 and the Sauk Rapids-Rice Board of Education and is licensed through the Minnesota Department of Education.

For the purpose of this policy, any further reference to medicine or medication includes drugs and refers to both prescriptions and over-the-counter preparations that must be legally prescribed in order for a nurse to administer.  Legal prescribers are listed in Minnesota statute 151.01 Subd. 23.

In most cases, legally prescribed medication, which includes over-the-counter medication, may be administered at school when a parent/ guardian of the student complies with the following:

1. Provides the school with a completed physician's order and parent/guardian request for medications to be administered during school hours.
2. Provides the medication in a prescription labeled container with student's name, medication name, dosage, amount, time interval, and prescriber.

The district reserves the right to reject medication requests.  Some medications because of the type, route, complexity of administration, potential for dangerous side effects, the health condition, or developmental status of the student may impact the ability to safely accommodate the medication request or administration may be limited to the school nurse based on the nurse's availability.  The school nurse is responsible for approving or denying medication requests.  When a request cannot be accommodated, parents/guardians may choose to come to school to administer the medication to their child or may contact their physician to make alternate arrangements.

The District Policy 516 – Student Medication can be found in its entirety here.   

School Resource Officer

Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools has partnered with the City of Sauk Rapids in providing a school resource officer for the entire district. During school hours, the officer is primarily located at the high school. Students are reminded that their behavior at school is subject to the laws of the State of Minnesota, Benton County and the Cities of Sauk Rapids and Rice.

Suicide Prevention: If you need suicide or mental health crisis support, or are worried about someone else, please call or text 988 or visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline chat to connect with a trained crisis specialist there are three ways you can connect to the Lifeline: calls, text, and online chats.

You can connect anytime 24/7, 365 days a year.

Support is provided by a trained crisis specialist and is free and confidential

Four County Crisis Response Team is available 24 hours a day 

Serves adults, youth and children in

• Benton County 320-253-5555 or 1-800-635-8008 
• Stearns County 320-253-5555 or 1-800-635-8008 
• Sherburne County 320-253-5555 or 1-800-635-8008 
• Wright County 320-253-5555 or 1-800-635-8008
   

The Morrison County Crisis Response Team serves adults, youth and children and is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-462-5525

 

Technology in our Schools

Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools creates a culture of excellence while providing innovative programming to address the changing learning strategies of today’s learners and new outcomes for future competitiveness. Students, families and staff work collaboratively to ensure that students are well prepared for postsecondary and career experiences in what is a demanding and ever-changing environment.   

Modern technology is inseparable from today’s classroom environment, instruction, and learning. As a result, it is important that all students understand and respect SRRHS policies and expectations related to such technologies. By putting the needs of our students first, we have nurtured innovation throughout the district.    

Student Technology

The district and Board of Education considers the financial realities of the future as well as the changing needs of each student.  They also recognize the importance of providing the means to implement skills that demonstrate measurable academic and behavioral results.  To that end, Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools provides increased access and opportunity through technology for all students in grades 9-12.

After signing the Device and Network Agreement, all SRRHS students have individual access to laptop devices that are property of the school district and are expected to follow the guidelines outlined in that agreement. The agreement explains student responsibilities, parent/guardian expectations, terms of device loan, general care instructions, fees, security and theft prevention, and issues related to damage, theft, and repair. Please consult the Acceptable Use Agreement Handbook for more information.

The District’s Device and Network Agreement can be found in its entirety at:  http://www.isd47.org/technology

Responsible Use/Digital Citizenship

The district is providing students and employees with access to the school district computer system, which includes internet access. The purpose of the system is more specific than providing students and employees with general access to the internet. The school district system has a limited educational purpose, which includes use of the system for classroom activities, educational research, and professional or career development activities. Users are expected to use internet access through the district system to further educational and personal goals consistent with the strategic plan of the school district and school policies. Uses which might be acceptable on a user’s private personal account on another system may not be acceptable on this limited-purpose network. Unacceptable use includes utilizing proxy servers or other avenues to bypass the district’s internet filter.

The faculty, staff, and students of SRRHS maintain a reasonable expectation of privacy while at school, on campus, and at school-related activities and events. Explicit permission must be obtained prior to recording other individuals in our building. A student identified as improperly using any device to take or transmit unrequested or unwanted images or recordings may face an immediate suspension, loss of privileges, and may be recommended for expulsion.

Any use of electronic devices (including texting, voicemail, internet communication or posting) to threaten, harass, bully, or encourage similar behavior will be subject to the provisions of the (Code of Conduct) discipline policy and district policies on Bullying (514), Harassment (413), and Internet, Technology, and Cell Phone Acceptable Use and Safety Policy (524). Most of these uses of digital data are recorded and may be traced, thereby requiring confiscation of the device for evidence. 

District Policies may be viewed online at https://www.isd47.org/about/district-policies.

The use of the school district system and access to use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right. Depending on the nature and degree of the violation and the number of previous violations, unacceptable use of the school district system or the internet may result in one or more of the following consequences: suspension or cancellation of use or access privileges; payments for damages and repairs; discipline under other appropriate school district policies, including suspension, expulsion, exclusion, or termination of employment; or civil or criminal liability under other applicable laws.

The District Policy 524 – Internet, Technology, and Cell Phone Acceptable Use and Safety Policy can be found in its entirety here.

Personal Electronic Devices

With the exception of lunch and passing times, the use of cell phones and other personal devices (earbuds, tablets, etc) will not be permitted during the school day, from 8:25 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. Consequences for the improper use of electronic devices may include confiscation of the electronic device. Parents/Guardians may be notified and/or required to retrieve the electronic device. Continued misuse will also include more significant disciplinary consequences and longer confiscation.

Any use of electronic devices to plagiarize, copy, or otherwise cheat academically is strictly prohibited and consequences are addressed in the Academic Honesty section in this handbook.

The faculty, staff, and students of SRRHS maintain a reasonable expectation of privacy while at school, on campus, and at school-related activities and events. Explicit permission must be obtained prior to recording other individuals in our building. A student identified as improperly using any device to take or transmit unrequested or unwanted images or recordings may face an immediate suspension, loss of privileges, and may be recommended for expulsion.  

Social Media Guidelines

All students need to use common sense when posting online, texting, or using social media. Any posts that are related to school, harmful to students and/or staff, and/or cause disruption in school may be subject to school consequences. 

Before posting, students should think about the following:

• Who will be able to see what I post?
• Will anyone be embarrassed or hurt by it?
• Am I proud of what I am posting?
• How would I feel if someone posted it about me?

Students who attend Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools have various rights and opportunities. Students also have responsibilities to teachers, other staff and fellow students.  A safe and positive learning environment is essential. Knowing and complying with these expectations and procedures supports making Sauk Rapids-Rice High School a positive place for all students.  

Use of Online Resources

Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools is committed to providing a safe and positive digital learning experience for students and staff.

Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools uses online electronic resources (i.e. apps, services, and websites) to support a variety of instructional goals. These resources provide tools to transform and personalize the learning environment for all students. 

These online electronic resources have limited access to student information which allows for the generation of and access to student accounts.

In compliance with federal educational guidelines and to assure that student data is not sold or compromised, all online electronic resources accessing student data must be approved for content quality and student data privacy guidelines. 

A list of approved online electronic resources for Sauk Rapids-Rice Public Schools can be accessed here: https://www.isd47.org/technology

Bus Transportation

Transportation by school bus is a privilege for eligible students, not a right.  A student’s eligibility to ride a school bus may be revoked for a violation of school bus safety or conduct policies, or for violation of any other law governing student conduct on a school bus.  Students are expected to follow the same behavior guidelines and standards while riding school buses as are expected on school property or at school activities, functions, or events.  All school rules are in effect while a student is riding the bus or at the bus stop.  When using school transportation, students are required to complete the ride to the building of their attendance (a.m.) or to the assigned home destination bus stop (p.m.).  Bus pick-up is on the north side of the building outside of Door 11.

Parking/Parking Permits/Wheel Locks

Students who drive to school must register their vehicle in the main office and have a valid parking permit displayed at all times. Forms and permits are available before school and during lunchtime, and also during open house. Student parking will be in the southwest lot (the lot directly in front of the main entrance - Door 1 and immediately west and south of Door 6).  

Parking in the SRRHS student lot is a privilege.  Students are responsible for following expectations found in our Code of Conduct and state driving laws.  The parking lot is a place to park vehicles. The parking lot is not a place to connect with friends and socialize in vehicles before, during and/or after school.  Students are expected to arrive at school, park their vehicle and enter the building.

The cost of a student parking permit is $120.00 (non-refundable/non-transferable) and is valid for the student’s entire high school career. Any student who loses a valid parking permit may buy a replacement permit at a price of $10.00.

Student parking areas will be randomly checked.  Students who are not parked in the appropriate areas may have wheel locks attached to their vehicles and a $30.00 first offense fee, a $60.00 second offense fee, and a $90.00 third offense fee will be charged to get them removed.  Further offenses will result in parking privileges being revoked.  Wheel locks will be removed between 3:20 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.  Tampering with wheel locks will result in a three-day suspension and the cost of any necessary repair to the wheel lock will be assessed to the offender.

Parent/Guardian Drop Off and Pick-Up

Students are able to be dropped off at Door 1. 
Students are to be picked up after school only at Door 1.

 

Bell Schedule

2025-2026 Daily Bell Schedule

Period One	8:20 a.m. - 9:07 a.m.
Period Two	9:12 .am. - 9:58 a.m.
Period Three	10:03 a.m. - 10:50
Period Four	Lunch A Lunch: 10:50 a.m. - 11:20 a.m. Class:  11:25 a.m. - 12:20 p.m. Lunch B Class:  10:55 a.m. - 11:20 a.m. Lunch: 11:20 a.m. - 11:50 a.m. Class:  11:55 a.m. -  12:20 p.m. Lunch C Class:  10:55 a.m. - 11:50 a.m. Lunch:  11:50 a.m. - 12:20 p.m.
Period Five	12:25 p.m. - 1:12 p.m.
Period Six	1:17 p.m. - 2:04 p.m.
Period Seven	2:09 p.m. - 2:55 p.m.
Period Eight Connections / Advisory	3:00 p.m. - 3:20 p.m.

 

Calendar

Schoology/Skyward