Student Handbook
Ridgeline Middle School STORM Covenant
Successful Trustworthy Organized Respectful Motivated
All students are responsible for following the RMS STORM Covenant. The covenant establishes the guidelines for appropriate school behavior and serves as the basic framework for student conduct.
SUCCESSFUL—Students will be encouraged to follow the rules of the school and take pride in their school work and their actions.
TRUSTWORTHY—Students will be encouraged to be responsible for their actions and attitudes. Students will be accountable for their own actions at all times.
ORGANIZED—Students will be encouraged to use materials and resources to accomplish personal goals in the classroom. Students and staff will share academic progress with parents using the student planner, telephone, progress reports, electronic and face-to-face communication.
RESPECTFUL—Students will be encouraged to respect themselves, others, and the learning environment. Positive student behaviors will be supported while any behavior that disrespects will be carefully confronted.
MOTIVATED—Students, staff and parents will be encouraged to celebrate academic achievement. Students will be encouraged to accomplish their goals. A positive culture motivates everyone to do their best to improve themselves, others, and the school.
RMS Student Handbook (English | Spanish)
*Handbooks are subject to change throughout the year based on board policy, OSPI Guidelines or State & Federal Laws.
Handbook Sections
- Optimal Learning Environment
- Attendance Information
- Discipline
- Parent Involvement
- School Procedures
- Student Learning
- Student Support & Services
Optimal Learning Environment
Yelm Community Schools embraces the diversity within our schools and seeks to create a nurturing and barrier-free learning environment for each student. To achieve this goal we commit to:
- Preparing our students to thrive in a multicultural and diverse society.
- Ensuring fair, equitable and inclusive principles are integrated into our policies, programs, operations and practices.
- Creating school and classroom cultures that are free of bias-based language or behaviors.
- Eliminating barriers that perpetuate negative outcomes.
- Providing all students the resources, opportunities and supports needed to succeed at high levels.
- Honoring and building upon the strengths and assets of every student.
- Welcoming and engaging families and community members as essential partners.
Attendance Information
Yelm Community Schools places a high priority on school attendance. Studies prove that daily attendance has a direct impact on student achievement. Our goal is to have every student arrive on time and attend a full day of school. School hours are 7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. The safety of students is of utmost importance to us. Before school, supervision is provided from 6:30 a.m. for your convenience. Students should not arrive on campus before 6:30 a.m. We have no regular after school supervision available. To ensure student safety, all students must be picked up by 2:15 p.m. Individual after school activities will be communicated by supervising teacher.
All students shall attend school every day unless they have a legitimate reason for being absent.
Reporting Absence Procedure
The student’s parent/guardian is expected to notify the school the reason for the absence on the day of the absence and no later than the day the student returns to school.
When your child will be absent from school, you can notify the school in three ways:
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Send an email to Beckie Whited, Registrar and Attendance Secretary, email: RMS_attendance@ycs.wednet.edu and provide reason
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Call attendance line at office voice mail 360.458.1100, option 2 (available 24 hours a day) and provide reason
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By parent/guardian note (the student should bring the note to the attendance office before school begins and provide reason
If your student has not arrived to school or the school has not been notified of the absence by 7:30 a.m., an automated phone call, email and/or text will be sent to parent/guardian in the morning and the afternoon.
Definition of “Excused Absences”
Students are expected to attend ALL assigned classes each day unless excused by the parent/guardian for valid reasons below.
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Participation in a school-approved activity: This absence must be authorized by a staff member and prior notification must be provided to parent/guardian for approval. (IE., field trips)
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Illness, health condition, health care appointments, family emergency, or religious/cultural purpose: We encourage parent/guardian to schedule appointments during non-school hours whenever possible. School officials may require a health professional’s written note when a student has more than 3 consecutive absences. Families are encouraged to acquire a health professional’s written note whenever possible and submit a copy to the Attendance Office.
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Parental/Family Pre-Arranged Absence: Parents/Guardians are to notify the school if there will be a pre-arranged absence from school. The absence may be classified as unexcused if the student is under an Attendance Agreement, BECCA order, or has an adverse effect on the student’s education or student has already reach 10 absences for the school year or 10% of the current year. The Pre-Arranged Absence Form is available at each school office.
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Court, judicial proceedings court-ordered activity or absences related to homeless or foster care status.
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Suspensions from school.
Definition of “Unexcused Absences”
Unexcused absences are defined as “failure on the part of the parent/guardian to notify the school in a timely manner.”
The principal or assistant principal may, upon request by a parent, grant permission for a student’s absence for parent-approved activities providing such absence does not adversely affect the student’s educational progress as determined by the principal or assistant principal. In addition, a student, upon the request of a parent, may be excused for a portion of a school day to participate in religious instruction provided such is not conducted on school property, or involves the school to any degree. The state law regarding attendance requires that every person under 18 years of age must attend school and requires verification of absence. Excuses such as sleeping in, missing the bus, getting assignments done for a class, ride not showing up, traffic, car problems, etc. do NOT constitute excused absences.
Tardy Policy
Tardy to School: Students are tardy to school if they arrive after the start of the school day. If a student is tardy to school, he/she MUST report to the office to obtain an admit slip to class.
Tardies will only be excused for legitimate reasons such as appointments, emergencies, or illness. Excuses such as sleeping in, missing the bus, getting assignments done for a class, ride not showing up, etcetera do NOT constitute excused tardies. Students who are late to school should bring a note from their parent or guardian. Students who arrive 10 minutes or later without a note or prior parent phone call are subject to disciplinary actions. After the 10 minute time period, it is considered an unexcused absence.
Tardy to Class: Students are tardy to class if they are not seated with necessary materials when the teacher begins instruction. Excused tardies require a note or email from the previous class teacher or staff member. Each teacher will record tardies and students will be subject to disciplinary action. If a student needs to use the restroom before class starts, we encourage students to leave their items on their desk and check in with the teacher.
Per Quarter
First and Second Tardy Third Tardy |
Verbal warning by teacher Parent/Guardian contact by teacher |
Four or more Tardies |
Discipline referral, parent/guardian contact, loss of Honor Level points, before school detention or multiple lunch detentions, administration may schedule parent/guardian conference and more stringent discipline administered Note: Attendance and Tardies can be tracked on Family Access. |
Ridgeline Middle School administration will periodically impose a lockout to discourage students from being tardy to class. During a lockout, staff members will lock their doors. Students locked out of their classroom will report to the commons to receive a lunch detention.
Chronic Absenteeism
Chronic absenteeism incorporates all absences: excused and unexcused. The focus is on the academic consequences due to the loss of instructional time and preventing absences before students fall behind. Chronic absenteeism is defined as missing more than 10% of the school year.
Students are truant when they are absent from school or class without the knowledge or permission of a parent or guardian. Students who are truant are subject to disciplinary action including after school detention and/or in school suspension.
The following truancy procedures will be followed prior to filing a full petition.
Tier 1
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1-2 Unexcused Absences: Parent/Guardian will be contacted via School Messenger, E-mail, letter or phone call
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3 Unexcused Absences: Schedule a meeting with school personnel to find solutions
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IEP/504 Accruing Students: Case manager will convene an IEP meeting to develop a plan
Tier 2
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4 Unexcused Absences/Excessive Excused Absences or 10% of the school year: Students will be placed on attendance contract
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Students in grades 6-12 need a Risk and Needs Assessment
Tier 3
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5 Unexcused Absences/Excessive Excused Absences or 10% of the school year: The school will file a stay petition with Thurston county Juvenile court and schedule Community Engagement Board Meeting
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Students not attending school as court ordered results in school filling a contempt and progress report Thurston County Juvenile court
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Monitor and review expiration date
Attendance – Policy 3122
Discipline
The rules contained herein are meant to regulate student conduct at school, at all school-sponsored activities, and off-campus that adversely affects the school-learning climate. Depending on the circumstance of the student’s violation, school authorities may, in compliance with state law and the rules of the State Board of Education, Chapter 180-40 WAC, impose discipline. District Policies are available in the Student Rights & Responsibility Handbook.
Discipline procedures will follow district policies.
Student Conduct – Policy 3240
Classroom Management, Discipline & Corrective Action – Policy 3241
Exceptional Misconduct – Policy 3241
Student Sexual Harassment – Policy 3205
Use of Tobacco and Nicotine Products & Delivery Devices – Policy 4215
District Policies are available in the on the website.
- Balloons/Flowers/Gifts
- Behavior Management System
- Campus Respect
- Cell Phones/Electronics
- CrimeStoppers 1.800.222.TIPS (8477)
- Dress Code
- Fragrant Sprays
- Harassment, Intimindation and Bullying (HIB)
- Loitering
- Plagiarism/Cheating
- Student Conduct
Balloons/Flowers/Gifts
Behavior Management System
Positive Behavior and Interventions System
At Ridgeline Middle School, we believe that all behavior is communication, and we maintain positive expectations of all students. We believe in teaching clear expectations, re-teaching as needed, and supporting students with individualized plans when needed. We support all students in making positive contributions to the school and to each other.
Students are offered incentives for positive behavior, such as Stormy Bucks (a token economy that students can use to exchange for items at the Stormy Bucks Store on Fridays) and quarterly events (i.e.: incentive activity, Electronic Lounge). Staff also send Positive Postcards home for students who have made progress or demonstrated kindness to others.
RMS Family Meetings
Students engage in RMS Family Meetings during their Homeroom time. In RMS Family Meetings, students use a curriculum called Character Strong to learn eight characteristics of good character and to build social and emotional skills through Proactive Circles. Go to www.characterstrong.com for more information. RMS Family Meeting time is used to re-teach and discuss positive expectations. RMS Family Meetings are also used to build college and career awareness and to build a High School and Beyond Plan.
Support at the Door
“Support at the Door” is a Tier 2 intervention for minor classroom disruptions or misbehavior. When teachers call for Support at the Door, an administrator or other staff member will go to the classroom to help support the students and get the student back on track and back to learning in the classroom. Teachers may call for “Support at the Door” for behavior that is not a safety issue, explicit disrespect or disruption, or an emergency situation. Support at the Door is intended to keep students in the classroom and re-direct them back to learning.
Multi-Tiered Systems of Support
The vision of Yelm Community Schools is to prepare ALL students for post-secondary pathways, careers, and civic engagement.
A Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is a service delivery framework focused on prevention and problem solving for all students. An integrated MTSS connects all of the academic and non-academic interventions, supports, and services available in schools and communities to support instruction and eliminate barriers to learning and teaching. Within an MTSS framework, multiple levels of instruction, assessment, and intervention are designed to meet the academic and non-academic needs of ALL students
Essential Components of an MTSS Framework
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Core Instruction and Tiered Continuum of Evidence-based Interventions and Supports (Tier I, II, III)
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Universal Screening and Progress Monitoring
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Data-based Decision Making
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Family Engagement and Community Partnerships
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Creating and maintaining the infrastructure to support an integrated MTSS Framework
Campus Respect
Cell Phones/Electronics
Cell phones and/or personal electronic devices may not be used or visible in classrooms from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. unless otherwise directed by a staff member. Any cell phone or electronics violation in the classroom or elsewhere on campus can result in a disciplinary referral and will be processed accordingly. Your cell phone may be confiscated as the result of a violation which also may require it to be picked up by your parent or guardian in the front office. Students are highly encouraged to keep electronics in their backpack or locker during the day.
While on school district property or while attending school-sponsored or school-related activities, students shall not use cell phones or other personal communication devices in a manner that poses a threat to academic integrity, disrupts the learning environment (See page 22) or violates the privacy rights of others. Students are responsible for devices they bring to school. The District shall not be responsible for loss, theft, or destruction of devices brought onto school property.
CrimeStoppers 1.800.222.TIPS (8477)
- Calling 800-222-TIPS(8477)
- Submitting Online at p3tips.com
- Download the P3 App to your mobile device
As always, tipsters remain 100% anonymous and could possibly be rewarded up to $1,000. Remember to save your “tip number” in order to follow up and receive a reward. Anyone having knowledge about dangerous situations or crimes (past, present or future) can report a tip.
Dress Code
In order to facilitate learning for all students, YCS requires that student dress and appearance follow health and safety standards and not cause disruption to the learning environment. Students who do not follow these guidelines will be asked to change their clothing, cover up, and/or contact home if necessary.
Heads: K-5 students must remove all headwear while in the building. Headwear includes hats, hoods, headbands with animal ears, bandanas and head wraps. (Exceptions will be made for medical, religious and other approved reasons.)
Torso: Clothing must cover stomachs, backs, shoulders, chests and undergarments.
Legs: Shorts, skirts and dresses must be longer than mid-thigh. Undergarments must be covered.
Feet: Footwear must be worn at all times appropriate to the activity. Strapless shoes and high heels are discouraged for safety.
Guidelines
- Clothing that promotes drugs, alcohol, tobacco, violence, is sexually suggestive, or displays inappropriate pictures or writing is prohibited.
- Any clothing worn in a manner identified as gang related is prohibited.
- Jewelry that can pose safety hazards is prohibited.
- Exceptions to dress code standards may be made for PE or school activities.
What students wear does affect the way they think about, and behave toward, their tasks at school, their peers, and adults. Please consider this as you help your child make appropriate choices for school clothes.
Fragrant Sprays
Harassment, Intimindation and Bullying (HIB)
Schools are meant to be safe and inclusive environments where all students are protected from Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (HIB), including in the classroom, on the school bus, in school sports, and during other school activities.
View the full definition of HIB, Sexual Harassment, Civil Rights and Gender Inclusive procedures.
Loitering
Loitering is not allowed in any hallway or on campus during the day, before, or after school hours. After school, a student is expected to leave campus by 2:15 p.m. unless attending a supervised school activity. Students are not to loiter on school grounds. When parents drop off students before school, the student will enter the building through the doors closest to the Commons. Students waiting to be picked up after school will wait at the main entrance. If a student wishes to receive help from a teacher after school, the student must arrange to do so in advance. Students may not wait on campus to attend athletic events and may return at 3:15 p.m.
Plagiarism/Cheating
Cheating
As defined by Webster’s Random House College Dictionary ©1998 “to take an examination in a dishonest way, as by having improper access to answers.” At RMS, this includes assignments as well as examinations.
Examples of Cheating
Copying homework, looking at another’s test, quiz or class work, letting someone look at a test, quiz or class work, using other secretive methods of giving answers for tests, quizzes or assignments.
Plagiarism
As defined by The Shorter New Oxford English Dictionary ©1993 “The action or fact of plagiarizing a work, idea, author, etc.: literary theft; an act or instance of this.” To plagiarize is to “take and use as one’s own (the thoughts, writings, inventions, etc., of another person); copy (literary work, ideas, etc.) improperly or without acknowledgement; pass of the thoughts, work, etc, of (another person) as one’s own.
Examples of Plagiarism
Plagiarism can include but is not limited to copying homework, looking at another’s test, quiz or class work, letting someone look at a test, quiz or class work, using other secretive methods of giving answers for tests, quizzes or assignments, taking papers from the internet, cutting and pasting pieces of work from the internet, and copying or paraphrasing from a book or internet without giving proper citation.
Consequences for Acts of Cheating/Plagiarism
Any acts of cheating or plagiarism will be subject to disciplinary action. Repeated acts of cheating/plagiarism will result in disciplinary action to include suspension.
Student Conduct
General Behavior
It shall be the responsibility of each student to pursue his/her course of study, and comply with the rules of Ridgeline Middle School. The rules, regulations and due process procedures of Ridgeline Middle School are designed to protect all members of the educational community.
Pursuant to chapter 180-40 of the Washington Administrative Code, the following rules governing the conduct of all students enrolled at RMS, including special programs, have been adopted. All students who attend RMS shall comply with these rules and regulations as well as the Yelm Community Schools District “Policy Defining Student Rights and Student Disciplinary Sanctions” (copies are available in the district office), and shall submit to the reasonable directions of school employees. Refusal to comply with such directions of school authorities shall constitute cause for discipline, suspension, or expulsion. Such rules apply both on and off school grounds:
a) Before, during, or after school hours.
b) At any other time when the school is being used by a school group.
c) At a school activity, function or event, including while students are participating in or representing the school in school sponsored events.
d) When the prohibited behavior is consequence of, or directly related to, causes or events, which occurred or originated on school grounds.
e) When the student is en route between home and school, including bus stops.
Classroom Behavior
Students are expected to comply with all classroom behavior expectations set forth by their teachers and guest teachers (substitutes).
Honor Level System
All students begin the school year with full privileges. Upon receiving discipline referrals, the student may lose privileges and access to extracurricular opportunities. Students who lose access to privileges may have the opportunity to earn back privileges by observing all school rules, participating in a restorative process or mediation, and receiving no discipline referrals for at least 10 days.
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Bus discipline
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Discipline referrals
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Suspensions, including ISS
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Weapons/alcohol/tobacco/drugs/paraphernalia
STORMY Bucks are distributed by the staff to acknowledge and encourage positive behavior by students when students demonstrate elements of the STORM Covenant and the 8 essential character traits.
Student Conduct Summary
A student who willfully performs any act, which interferes with or is detrimental to the orderly operations of a school, a school sponsored activity or any other aspect of the educational process within the district shall be subject to discipline, suspension, or expulsion. Such acts shall include, but not be limited to, those listed below:
Disruptive conduct, dangerous behavior, disobedience of reasonable instructions of school authorities, refusal to identify oneself, truancy or unauthorized absence from class, cheating, immoral conduct, vulgarity or profanity, use of tobacco products, use or possession of alcoholic beverages, drugs, or narcotics not prescribed by a physician, destruction or defacing of school property, possession of fireworks, extortion or harassment or use of any dangerous weapons or object, and the commission of any criminal act as defined by law. In addition, law enforcement officers will be called whenever it is deemed appropriate by school authorities. Students will be held accountable for actions towards students/staff on or off campus as long as the student is under the direction of the school.
Parent Involvement
Family Access
Family Access is a web-based tool designed to give parents/guardians and students access to student information to support achievement. Students and parent/guardians each have their own access.
Need help with your access or need to access tutorials?
- Attendance
- Grades/Academic Progress/Test Scores
- Class Schedules & Teacher Contacts
- Lunch Balances
- Conference Scheduling
- And much more!
Fines/Obligations
Messages
Visitors
All visitors are required to report to the school office to make arrangements and receive assistance in conducting their business. To provide the safest atmosphere possible, students from other schools are NOT permitted to visit RMS classes. If a parent wishes to visit his/her student's classes or teachers, the visit must be cleared through the building administration. Arrangements must be made at least 24 hours in advance, so parent and teacher can confer before and after the visit. All visitors will be issued and must wear a visitor’s pass. After-school visitors are also required to report to the school office to sign in and receive assistance in visiting a classroom.
Volunteer
Volunteers are a vital part of our students' education. To volunteer in a school during the school year, an application must be completed online. All volunteers must receive clearance through the Washington Access to Criminal History (WATCH) before volunteering. Clearance is granted for one school year only.
Volunteers can work directly with the office or a classroom teacher, with our Booster Club, or with our Counselor through our Watch D.O.G.S and M.O.M.S program.
School Procedures
- Assemblies
- Closed Campus
- Comings and Goings
- Dismissal Policies
- Emergency Closure
- Emergency Procedures and Drills
- Guest Teachers
- Hall Passes
- Lockers/Student Valuables/Backpacks/Book Bags
- Lost & Found
- Planner Requirements
- Relevant Federal and State Laws
Assemblies
Various assemblies will be scheduled throughout the school year. Students are expected to follow established guidelines. All students are to walk to the assembly with their teachers and sit quietly in the designated areas. Students are expected to behave in a mature manner during the assembly, and to extend the proper courtesies to those people conducting the presentation. At the conclusion, students will remain seated until specifically dismissed. Inappropriate behavior will result in loss of assembly privileges and/or additional disciplinary action.
Closed Campus
Ridgeline Middle School is a closed campus. This means ALL students must remain on campus at all times unless supervised by a staff member or parent. Once a student arrives on school grounds in the morning, he/she is not to leave campus until school is dismissed at the end of the day. Students who are not currently enrolled at RMS are not permitted on campus during school hours without permission from the administration. School grounds include all of the properties within the sidewalks or roads (in the absence of a sidewalk) that border Ridgeline Middle School. Students are not allowed in areas designated as "closed" during certain hours of the day. These include but are not limited to the track, the baseball fields, the hallways and the parking lots.
Comings and Goings
Early/Mid Day Dismissal
Students must bring a signed note from a parent or guardian to the office before school begins. Parents need to sign out their child in the office. Students will be called from class once the parent signs the student out in the office. When returning to school, the student must sign back in at the office.
Field Trips
All students need to communicate with their teachers prior to missing class due to a school-sponsored field trip. Students will also be responsible for work missed due to participation in the activity. All school and bus rules apply, including RMS dress code. Students must be passing all classes to be eligible for field trips.
Classwork Requests
Classwork requests may be made for absences of 3 or more days through the Attendance Office. Please allow 24 hours from the time of the request for staff to prepare the work. It is suggested that each student have a few other students in each class who could be called for information regarding assignments missed. It is the responsibility of the student to request make-up work upon returning to class if no office requests have been made.
Morning Arrival/After School Departure
Whether students arrive by bus or are dropped off, once they are on campus, they may not walk off campus. All students must report to the Commons as soon they arrive to school. Students will have the opportunity to sign-out to get help from a teacher or go to the library. Students arriving by bus or from the direction of 107th Loop must enter through the double doors that lead from the bus parking. Students arriving via Carter Street must enter through the Student Entry doors closest to the Commons. See map on the back cover of this handbook for exact locations. The Main Entrance is for visitors and official school business only. All exterior doors except the main entrance doors are locked after 7:30 a.m. until 6:30 a.m. the next day.
School Closure/ Delay
Sometimes during the school year, we face the possibility of inclement weather and school closure or schedule changes. Typically, families will be notified of emergency schedule changes by an automated phone call, email and/or text. We will announce closures and delays as early as possible but not later than 5:30 a.m. Occasionally circumstances change quickly and late announcements are unavoidable.
The following information is for reference in the event that the schools are closed or buses operate on an emergency schedule:
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School Closure: All schools will be closed all day and any activities planned for the day or evening will be announced by 12 p.m. on the district website.
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Emergency Schedule: Indicates that schools will start on a delayed schedule. Parents are reminded that although the buses will start the runs later, if we are on an emergency schedule, the buses may be slightly later near the end of the run. We request that parents make allowances for this.
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Limited Transportation: Limited transportation will prevail if some roads become inaccessible or if the county announces road closures. School will be in session unless otherwise announced by the Superintendent’s Office.
Stay informed about Emergency Closures & Delays by:
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Signing up for FLASH ALERT (http://flashalert.net/news.html?id=4289) to receive an email notice.
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Updating your Family Access email and home & cell numbers
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Opting In for Text Messaging (Text YES to 67587)
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Following Yelm Community Schools on Facebook and Twitter
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Visiting the district website for detailed information and updates
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Tuning into other media outlets
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It is requested that parents/guardians do not call the media stations for closure information.
AM Stations |
FM Stations |
TV Stations |
KGTK 920 KOMO 1000 KGY 1240 KITZ 1400 |
KPLU 88.5 KIRO 97.3 KMPS 94.1 KRWM 106.9 KXXO 96.1 KGY 96.9 |
KOMO 4 KING 5 / KONG 6 KIRO 7 KCPQ 13 |
Transfer/Withdrawal
Students transferring to another school must come to the office to pick up a Student Withdrawal Form. The form signed by a parent/guardian will be taken to each class where each teacher will provide a grade-to-date and sign off that no fines have been assessed. It is required that all library books, textbooks and school equipment be returned to the proper teachers, and all teacher signatures obtained. The completed form and payment of fines must be received by the office before withdrawal is complete. Requests for transcripts will be held until all fines have been paid.
Vacations
Vacations during the school year are discouraged. Students missing school due to a vacation must complete a pre-arranged absence form and obtain prior approval at least one week in advance from the attendance office, teachers and administration. Any student excused for a planned absence will make up all work missed as determined by his/her teacher.
Dismissal Policies
Students must bring a signed note from a parent or guardian to the office before school begins. Parents need to sign out their child in the office. Students will be called from class once the parent signs the student out in the office. When returning to school, the student must sign back in at the office.
Emergency Closure
View Flash Alert for today's status OR to subscribe to receive text or email alerts
Sometimes during the school year, we face the possibility of inclement weather resulting in school closure or schedule changes. Typically, families will be notified of emergency schedule changes by an automated phone call, email and/or text. We will announce closures and delays as early as possible but not later than 5:30 a.m. Occasionally circumstances change quickly and late announcements are unavoidable. The following information is for reference in the event that the schools are closed or buses operate on an emergency schedule:
- School Closure: All schools will be closed all day and any activities planned for the day or evening will be announced by 12pm on the district website.
- Emergency Schedule: Indicates that schools will start on a delayed schedule. Parents are reminded that although the buses will start the runs later, if we are on an emergency schedule, the buses may be slightly later near the end of the run. We request that parents make allowances for this.
- Limited Transportation: Limited transportation will prevail if some roads become inaccessible or if the county announces road closures. If we alter a route, we will send an automated message. School will be in session unless otherwise announced by the Superintendent’s Office.
Stay informed about Emergency Closures & Delays by
- Signing up for FLASH ALERT to receive an email notification.
- Updating your Family Access email and home & cell numbers
- Opting In for Text Messaging (Text YES to 67587)
- Following Yelm Community Schools social media platforms
- Visiting the district website for detailed information and updates
- Tuning in to other media outlets
It is requested that parents/guardians do not call the media stations for closure information.
AM Stations | FM Stations | TV Stations |
KGTK 920
KOMO 1000
KGY 1240
KITZ 1400
|
KPLU 88.5
KMPS 94.1
KXXO 96.1
KGY 96.9
KIRO 97.3
KRWM 106.9
|
KOMO 4
KING 5 / KONG 6
KIRO 7
KCPQ 13
|
Emergency Procedures and Drills
Students will practice fire, earthquake and lockdown drills throughout the school year. Emergency drills are to be taken seriously. Students are expected to maintain classroom conduct throughout the entire drill and to be informed of the exit route for each of their classrooms. Students are to report to their homeroom location when allowed to exit the building.
In the event of an actual emergency, parents should understand that telephone calls will only hinder emergency relief and that information concerning children and the amount of damage cannot be furnished. Parents will be notified by telephone of any accidents to children as soon as possible. Students will only be released to people listed on the student’s emergency card. Please make sure the information is kept current. When it is necessary to evacuate the Ridgeline campus, an offsite emergency evacuation location will be used. Students and staff will rendezvous at St. Columban Catholic Church located at 506 First Street. Parents, guardians, or adults picking up students must sign out students from the office or designated release station. Adults picking up students should follow the school’s procedures under all circumstances so the school is always aware of the student’s safety and whereabouts.
Guest Teachers
Hall Passes
Lockers/Student Valuables/Backpacks/Book Bags
Lockers are provided as a privilege. They are district property and may be inspected by unannounced checks. The student will be held responsible for the condition of the locker, including its regular cleaning, and a fine may be assessed for damage to a locker. Searches are conducted according to board policy, and any container may be searched and confiscated. Locker assignments will be made the first week of school, and students may be assigned a locker partner. Once you receive a locker, you may not leave that locker and place your belongings in another person’s locker. At no time can you give your combination to another person. Students must notify the office of any locker or locker partner problems immediately. Access to lockers is before, after school, before, and after lunch. Valuables are not to be left in lockers or brought to school. The school/district is not accountable for lost/stolen personal items. If an item is valuable, leave it at home.
The following are rules/guidelines for student use:
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Lockers shall be locked at all times and combinations shall be kept private.
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Student must use assigned locker only.
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No personal locks may be used.
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Lockers shall be kept free of graffiti.
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Jamming of, damage to, or theft from a locker is a suspendable offense.
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The school does not insure the lockers’ contents.
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Throughout the year, the school reserves the right to bring in law enforcement and law enforcement dogs trained to find illegal drugs and to do random searches.
Lost & Found
The school maintains a collection of lost and found items. Lost articles may be claimed upon proper identification in the office. It is strongly recommended that you have articles of clothing and all possessions clearly marked with student names. Those articles not claimed within a reasonable time frame will be given to charity.
Planner Requirements
Each student must purchase a planner for $5. Students are required to carry their planners with them to all classes and use them to manage their time and work. It is the responsibility of the student to keep his/her planner free from graffiti and inappropriate language. Students are also responsible for keeping the planner intact with all appropriate pages in order. If a planner is lost, students must purchase a new one through the office.
Relevant Federal and State Laws
Requires that the rules of a District governing pupil conduct and discipline be interpreted to insure an optimum learning atmosphere in the classroom. Optimum learning atmosphere shall be defined as the climate in which each student has the maximum opportunity to learn and the conduct of students that interferes with that climate is kept at an absolute minimum as determined by the classroom teacher.
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Requires students to comply with rules established for the governing of schools.
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Requires a student to pursue his or her course of study and make reasonable progress.
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Requires students to submit to the authority of teachers, subject to such disciplinary action, as school officials shall determine.
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Empowers each teacher to hold pupils on a strict accountability for disorderly or antisocial conduct while under the teacher’s supervision, and to make recommendations for the suspension of a student for cause.
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Makes it a crime to willfully create a disturbance on school premises during school hours or at school activities or meetings.
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Provides that students who damage property at school or while under school jurisdiction may be suspended and punished. The student, parent(s) and/or guardian(s) shall be liable for damages.
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Allows teachers to temporarily exclude students from classroom instructional or activity area.
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Prohibits harassment on the basis of race, national origin, gender, age, religion, marital status, sexual orientation or disability.
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RCW 28A.635.090 makes it a crime to interfere by force or violence with any staff member of student who is in the peaceful discharge of his or her duties or studies.
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RCW 28A.635.100 makes it a crime to intimidate or use threat of violence against any staff member or student in the peaceful discharge of his or her duties or studies. Violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, Saturday School or suspension.
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The State of Washington Minor in Possession Law calls for the withholding of the driver’s license if a minor is convicted of the use and/or possession of alcoholic beverages or dangerous drugs. Please see Criminal Acts. (RCW 13.40.265)
These rights mentioned above are subject to the Yelm Community School's authority to make reasonable rules and regulations safeguarding the health, safety, and rights of students, teachers, administrators, parents and the community at large. Specific details regarding each of the above rights can be found in the Yelm Community School's Policy Manual or student conduct pamphlet available in each building office.
Student Learning
- Academics
- District Technology Access
- Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
- Student's Rights and Responsibilities
Academics
Conferences
RMS participates in district-wide conferences in the fall and spring. Online scheduling and notification is completed through Skyward Family Access. Additional assistance is available for families without computer access.
Fall Conferences: Parents/Guardians have the opportunity to meet with individual, selected teachers to discuss academic progress in classes. Spring Conferences: Students at RMS present their accomplishments and goals through Student-Led Conferences. Students develop a High School and Beyond Plan, and it is part of what they present at SLC conferences in the spring.
Counseling Department
The counseling offices are located in the main office. Our counselors consult with students, teachers and parents to identify developmental needs and design prevention or intervention activities in order to guide students with academic, social and career development. To see a counselor, students sign up in the office and are seen as soon as possible.
Grade Reporting
Report cards are issued four times a year at the end of each term. Mid-term progress reports are issued mid-way through each term. A 3.0 grade point average (GPA) determines honor roll at RMS.
Makeup Work
If a student is absent and missed an assignment, it is his/her responsibility to make arrangements for make-up work. Make up work needs to be completed in a timely manner. It is the student’s responsibility to know the make-up policy for each teacher. OT (Opportunity Time) is available weekly on regularly scheduled Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays for students who require additional time for assignments.
Parent Request Conference
Parents can request to meet with teachers, counselors, and/or administrators at any time. Please call 360.458.1100 or stop by the office to make an appointment.
Washington State History and Government
The Washington State history and government requirement may be met in grades 7 through 12; if the course is taken in the 7th or 8th grade it fulfills the requirement, but high school credit will be awarded only if the academic level of the course exceeds the requirements for 8th grade; students who meet the requirement but do not earn credit must still take the required number of social studies credits in high school.
Textbooks
All fines/obligations must be paid before end of the year activities/trips.
District Technology Access
The district is dedicated to promoting and instilling principles of digital citizenship and media literacy in students and encourages guardians to play an active role in the process of educating students. While the district takes great care to monitor and filter inappropriate websites, students are expected to be responsible users of their access and the educational technology tools made available. For a complete list of Student Responsible Use Guidelines, review the Student Rights and Responsibility Handbook and/or Policy and Procedure 2022/P on the district website at Yelm Community Schools.
Students will be given a unique user login and password to access educational technology tools. The login portal icon is available at the top of the school and district website for students to access at school or home. It is essential students keep this information private to ensure security of their school files and online accounts.
Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
The vision of Yelm Community Schools is to prepare ALL students for post-secondary pathways, careers, and civic engagement.
A Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is a service delivery framework focused on prevention and problem solving for all students. An integrated MTSS connects all of the academic and non-academic interventions, supports, and services available in schools and communities to support instruction and eliminate barriers to learning and teaching. Within an MTSS framework, multiple levels of instruction, assessment, and intervention are designed to meet the academic and non-academic needs of ALL students.
Essential Components of an MTSS Framework
- Core Instruction and Tiered Continuum of Evidence-based Interventions and Supports (Tier I, II, III)
- Universal Screening and Progress Monitoring
- Data-based Decision Making
- Family Engagement and Community Partnerships
- Creating and maintaining the infrastructure to support an integrated MTSS Framework
Student's Rights and Responsibilities
Student's Rights
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To have the opportunity to attend school in a safe setting.
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To be informed of teachers’ classroom procedures, policies, and expectations.
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To be informed of individual progress in class.
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To be informed of district, school, and individual teacher behavior expectations and the consequences for failure to comply.
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To be treated firmly and fairly in the event that behavior requires intervention and be afforded due process.
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To not be discriminated against in any way due to race, national origin, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation or disability.
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To be allowed to express thoughts and feelings as long as others’ rights are not violated in the process and that it is done without disruption to school activities, the educational process, or the routine operation of the school.
Students' Responsibilities
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Attend school daily, be on time, and come prepared with all materials needed to be successful.
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Demonstrate full effort and complete all assignments honestly.
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Respect the rights of others to study and learn.
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Respect public and private property and return materials and equipment in good condition.
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Follow all behavior expectations of the classroom, school, and district.
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Keep RMS safe by informing administrators of any potentially dangerous situations.
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Treat everyone respectfully.
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Help keep our building and grounds clean.
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Help ensure that all school communication gets home to parents.
Student Support & Services
- ASB/ID Cards
- ASB- Student Activities
- Athletics
- Food Service & Meals
- Health Information
- Library
- No Excuses University
ASB/ID Cards
Each student will be required to have a student ID card provided during the first month of school. For sports and after school clubs, students will be required to purchase an ASB sticker for their identification cards. The purchase of an ASB sticker reduces the cost of ASB dance admission and yearbooks. Replacement ID cards may be purchased in the office.
ASB- Student Activities
Behavior Requirements
All school and district rules apply at any school related activity including sporting events. A student who is on Honor Level Three or who has been removed from class for disciplinary action on the day of an activity may lose the privilege to attend, regardless of honor level standing. Misbehavior at these activities will result in school discipline and loss of activity attendance privileges.
Teen Night
Scheduled throughout the year will be Parent Booster-sponsored Teen Nights. Teen Nights will be on some Fridays, 7:00-9:00 p.m. Middle School ID Cards are required for admittance. All school policies, including the dress code, will apply. Misbehavior at these activities will result in school discipline and loss of attendance privileges. A student with multiple disciplinary referrals or who is on suspension on the day of a Teen Night may lose the privilege to attend. Students must have attended school that day in order to attend.
End of the Year Trip and Extra-Curricular Activities
Students who receive multiple disciplinary referrals may not be allowed to attend the grade-level end of year trip. Students who have missed 10% or more of school days must review with Administration for eligibility. Misconduct involving alcohol, tobacco, drugs/paraphernalia or weapons automatically prohibits students from attending their end of the year trip and may also prohibit eligibility for extracurricular activities. Administration reserves the right to prohibit students from any non-academic privileges or elective activities if those students demonstrate through their behavior that they may not be successful in representing Ridgeline and themselves well on those trips and/or extracurricular activities.
Athletics
The interscholastic program exists to allow students to participate and represent their schools in educational, social, and recreational activities to further improve their abilities and to learn to cooperate and compete with others. Because these activities are performed in public, each student is expected to conduct himself/herself, at all times, in a manner that will reflect the high standards of Ridgeline Middle School, the team and community. When representing their school, students are expected to dress according to school guidelines and demonstrate mature conduct that will earn respect for themselves and RMS. For the purpose of eligibility and discipline, the definition of a sport season will be from the first team meeting until the completion of the awards program.
Schedule of Sports Seasons
All sports registration is completed online.
Please go to the link below to register for sports - https://www.familyid.com/ridgeline-middle-school
Sports practices at Ridgeline are after school Monday through Friday.
6th/7th/8th Grade Sports |
Fall Football (7th-8th Grade only), Cross Country, Girls Fastpitch, Boys Soccer |
Winter I Girls Basketball, Wrestling |
Winter II Boys Basketball, Girls Soccer |
Spring Track, Volleyball |
Academic Requirements
Students participating in sports are placed on probation for a two-week period if they receive an “F” grade in any class. Should the student clear an “F” grade within 24 hours, they are eligible immediately. Should the student clear failing grades within the first week, they are eligible the following Monday. Should the student be failing the same course/courses after the initial grade check signifying an “F”, they will be dropped from the activity.
Students may practice but will not be eligible to participate in contests until the two-week period is complete and the student no longer has an “F” grade. An athlete will become immediately ineligible for all interscholastic programs if conduct at school results in disciplinary actions (per board policy 2151).
Students violating the drug, alcohol, or tobacco policies while on a sports team at RMS will be dropped from the activity. Students attending functions where drugs and/or alcohol are present must leave immediately.
ASB/ID Card
Students must purchase an ASB card before participating in athletics and after-school clubs and activities. ASB cards for the 2024-2025 school year are yet to be determined, but will be no less than $25.
Athletic Code
Students must sign and adhere to the athletic code. Students who violate policies outlined in the athletic code may be subject to disciplinary action including suspension from the team.
Attendance
All athletes must be present and on time the entire day to be eligible to participate unless prior approval is obtained from the athletic director. This includes but is not limited to athletic contests, practices, dances, etcetera. Full P.E. participation is required for all athletes on a day of practice or game. In order to participate in a Saturday event, a student must be in attendance for the entire school day on Friday.
Behavior Requirements
All athletes are required to adhere to the athletics/activities code provided in the beginning of the season packet. Violation of this code will result in disciplinary action.
Fees/Forms
For athletes, a non-refundable fee is required for each individual sport. All students need health insurance to participate in after school athletics. Insurance forms are available in the office for those students who do not presently have coverage. Online registration must be completed and all fees and fines turned in to the office before a student begins participating (no exceptions). If there is a financial hardship, please contact the Athletic Director. It is not our intent to deny ANY student the opportunity to participate or try out.
Physicals
Students must have a current sport physical submitted to the office prior to the start of a sports season (no exceptions). A physical examination form and an insurance form are both available in the office. The best time to obtain a physical is during the summer. Physicals are good for thirteen months.
Sportsmanship
Inappropriate yelling and profanity will not be tolerated. Enjoy the game! It is appropriate to cheer FOR your team NOT against the other team. Inappropriate behavior by athletes or spectators will result in removal from the event and disciplinary action.
Substance Abuse
The unlawful use, possession or consumption of tobacco, alcohol or controlled substances (drugs) or paraphernalia is prohibited. When a violation takes place, the administration and coaches will follow the Yelm Community Schools Athletic/Activities Code as well as the rules set by the coach/advisor.
Transportation
Students must get to the event and back to school in school-approved transportation. If parents want to provide transportation for their student after the event, they must submit the request in writing. Parents may not release an athlete to another adult or parent. Check with the coach/advisor for more information.
Food Service & Meals
Meal Service
The breakfast and lunch program is provided by our district’s Food Service department. Breakfast is served every morning at 7:00 a.m. Lunch is served at 10:44 a.m. (1st lunch) and 11:42 a.m. (2nd lunch), and 11:44 a.m. (3rd lunch). Please check the school website for current meal prices as they are subject to change.
Meal Costs
Please check the website for an updated fee schedule.
Free and Reduced Meals
Meal benefits are available to families that meet income guidelines. Free and Reduced applications are available online through Skyward Family Access. Paper applications are available at school upon request or on our Food Service website.
If you have questions regarding your child’s meal account, please contact your school. For assistance with Free and Reduced application, please contact the district Food Service Department at 360.400.1151.
Online Payments
As a convenience to families, Yelm Community Schools provides an easy way to make online payments from home or work, 24/7. With just one login, you can make payments for any child in your household using Discover, VISA, or MasterCard credit or debit cards.
Online payments can be used to replenish a student’s food service account or pay for any existing fines or fees, such as class fees, athletic fees, or ASB activities.
Yelm Community Schools is fully compliant with all data protection laws, including PCI Data Security Standards. Yelm School District does not store your billing or payment information at any time. Any personal information you enter related to your credit card through this website is purged immediately. Any contact information you enter is stored for your convenience when using our website. Information you provide to us will only be used by Yelm Community Schools. We will never sell or rent your personal information to third parties.
Health Information
Common Health Care Procedures
Accident or Head Trauma: Parents will be notified regarding any incident that necessitates an accident report. In addition, any student who suffers trauma to the head at school will be assessed in the health room and parents will be notified.
Allergy Accommodations: Latex Allergy - Yelm Community Schools prohibits the use of all latex products, including latex balloons, due to severe allergies. Peanut Allergy - Please refrain from sending any peanut products due to severe allergies.
Diarrhea: Any student who has been having diarrhea will be sent home and may return to school when they have been free of diarrhea for 24 hours.
Fever: Any student with a fever of 100.4 or higher will be sent home and may return to school once the child has been fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication.
Injury: If any child has an injury that prohibits them from participating in PE or other school activities, a note from the physician is needed to excuse participation. Please be sure the doctor includes when student can return to normal activity or provide a separate note.
Lice: The Infectious Disease Control Guide no longer recommends long-term exclusion for pediculosis/head lice. Head lice is a nuisance condition and is not known to transmit infection from person to person. Any student who presents with live lice will be sent home for treatment. Students may return to school when no live lice are present.
Rash: Any student with an undiagnosed rash will be sent home from school in order to be evaluated by a healthcare provider. The parent/guardian will be asked to provide a note from a healthcare provider upon return to school.
Vomiting: Any student who has been vomiting will be sent home and may return to school when they have not vomited in 24 hours.
Life Threatening Illness
If your child has an illness, which has the potential to cause death during the school day YCS must be made aware prior to the student’s first day of school. Examples of these conditions would be seizures, diabetes, allergies requiring an Epi Pen, severe asthma and/or any other condition that is considered to be life threatening. Parents/guardians are responsible to report this information to the Registered Nurse assigned to that school. Parents/guardians must provide the medication in its original container along with the medication authorization form prior to the first day of school. Students will be excluded from school until these requirements are met. (RCW 28A.210.320, District Policy 3413)
Immunizations
In order to protect children against a number of childhood diseases, Washington State Law requires that all children enrolled to YCS be immunized against varicella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, measles, rubella, mumps and hepatitis b as appropriate. Parents may submit the Exemption from Immunization form. However, students will be excluded from school if they do not meet the requirements of the law. (RCW 28A.210.060, District Policy 3413)
Infectious Disease
In order to safeguard the school community from the spread of certain communicable diseases YCS will comply with the State Board of Health rules and regulations within the most current Infectious Disease Control Guide, provided by the State Department of Health and the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. (District Policy 3414.
Medications
YCS requires signed authorization forms for the dispensing of any prescription or non-prescription medicines to students. Forms must be signed by the physician as well as the parent/guardian and are available from the office. Physicians may fax this information to our school at 360.458.6315. All medications must be delivered to and picked up from the school by the parent/guardian in the original container. Most medications can be dispensed by the parent/guardian before or after school. Please ask your healthcare provider for guidance on medication delivery times. (RCW 28A.210.260 & 270, District Policy 3416)
Library
The RMS library provides services and resources to our students, families and staff. Students are encouraged to use these resources often to become successful and independent in using a wide variety of media. The library is available for student use in the morning and at lunch after students have signed out with the cafeteria supervisor.
No Excuses University
Ridgeline Middle School is a No Excuses University School (NEU). NEU is a national network of schools who are committed to building college and career readiness for all students through building exceptional school systems. Go to https://noexcusesu.com/ for more information.