Handbook

The content found within the Royal High School Handbook can be found on this web page and its sub-pages. You can also download a PDF version of the RHS Handbook in (English) or (Español).


Student Handbook 2024-2025

THE KNIGHT'S SHIELD:
Service, Honor, Integrity, Excellence, Leadership, and Determination

Principal: Ms. Courtney McCoy
Assistant Principal/CTE Director: Mr. Randy Miller
Athletic & Activities Director: Mr. Cody Miller

955 Ahlers Ave. N. • PO Box 486  
Royal City, Washington 99357
Telephone: (509) 346-2256
FAX Number: (509) 346-9739

Office Support Staff

Ms. Evelin Martinez, Secretary
Ms. Katia Marmolejo, Attendance/Parent Liaison
Ms. Vanessa Rodriguez, Counselors Secretary 

Royal School District Mission Statement

“Our mission is to ensure an excellent education for all students.  We are committed to providing a positive social, emotional, and physically safe learning environment.  We make every effort to produce a high-quality educational system that continues to foster our sense of pride and promotes excellence for all.”

Royal High School Mission Statement

“Royal High School, a partnership of parents, community and schools, strives to graduate students who achieve the knowledge, skills, and work ethic necessary to be responsible and productive citizens, effective communicators, creative problem solvers and life-long learners.”


Bell Schedules


School Calendar


Royal High School Parent Involvement Plan

Parents have and will continue to be a part of the targeted assistance advisory group for the building. The following is the job description for this group. Yearly, the job description is revised to meet the building needs.

  • Review and disseminate yearly and rewrite, if necessary. The targeted assistance plan and parent involvement plan
  • Conduct or schedule building staff development opportunities
  • Review building allocations
  • Prioritize purchases
  • Communicate to staff and parents components of the plan

Royal High school will promote partnerships that will increase involvement in promoting the academic, social and emotional growth of the children. These goals will be aligned with state and national educational goals.

Royal High School will support parent involvement by:

  • Engaging parents in meaningful involvement through interactive projects, such as job shadows, culminating projects and portfolios
  • Hosting Evening of Honors
  • Distributing student testing information0
  • Collecting information by survey
  • Information in the district newsletter
  • Providing annual school performance report
  • Encouraging reading at home
  • Encouraging parent to participate as school volunteers
  • Making telephone contacts
  • Welcoming parent teacher conferences
  • Making home visits
  • Providing written information in English and Spanish
  • Encouraging Migrant and Bilingual parents to participate in the district Parent Advisory Committee

Royal High School Students’ Rights and Responsibilities

Royal High School students, as citizens of the school community, are entitled to all the rights and privileges granted by our democratic society.  The right to an education, however, does allow that schools may legitimately expect students to accept certain responsibilities.  It is important that both students and parents read this document, as they are responsible to know the information.  

When students come to school to learn, they arrive on time with their work done to the best of their ability.  Students present themselves in attire that is not distracting to the learning of others.  Students who want to better themselves ask their peers and teachers for help when necessary and will give help to others.  Role modeling healthy behavior develops leadership skills and lifelong habits that can increase the number and quality of opportunities.  
All students who attend Royal High School shall comply with the written policies, rules, and regulations of the Royal School District; shall pursue the required course of studies; and shall submit to the authority of school staff, subject to such corrective action(s) as identified in the Royal School District/Royal High School Student Discipline Codes. As afforded by Washington Administrative Code, all students have the right to due process.

Overview of Student Rights

Each student attending Royal High School has the right to:

  • An equal educational opportunity, free of discrimination because of national origin, immigration status, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, pregnancy, marital status, or an identified learning need.
  • Be secure in his or her person, papers, and effects from unreasonable search and seizures.
  • Free expression and assembly subject to reasonable limitations and identified procedures for exercising such rights.
  • Be free from unlawful interference in his or her pursuit of an education while in the custody of a school authority.

Overview of Student Responsibilities

Each student attending Royal High School has the responsibility to:

  • Attend school daily and be on time to class with all necessary materials.
  • Know and obey the rules of the district and the school.
  • Accept reasonable consequences for violating school or district rules.
  • Respect the rights of others, as not to disrupt or deprive others of their right to an education.
  • Respect the property of others, of the school, and the district; and be willing to make restitution for property damaged.  

Mental Health Resources

Safety comes first in our school, and we believe that only through healthy levels of physical, social, and emotional safety can our students learn at high levels.

Counseling services are available for any student that is seeking additional support or mental health services. School counselors visit classrooms regularly to promote and inform students that they are readily available. Grant County Mental Health Services is also available for students who are seeking services outside of school or needing additional counseling services during the school week. There is also a school psychologist that is readily available for students as well. Please see your school counselor for further assistance.

The Counseling Department aims at promoting a positive level of awareness among our student population when it comes to educating and creating awareness on mental health illnesses throughout the school year. Students are also encouraged to talk to their counselors about any concerns they might have about themselves or about another classmate or friend. No student or person is ever alone. As a school, we are here for our students.

This school year, we also have a Behavior Interventionist at our school who will help assist with SHIELD by providing another layer of support for students in need.

If a staff member is concerned about a student, he or she may, in addition to discussing concerns with the student, refer that student to one of our school counselors for further assistance.  If a parent is concerned about his or her child or another student, please contact the high school to discuss your concerns with one of our school counselors.  See phone numbers for outside resources.

Grant Integrated Services: 1.509.765.1582
Grant Integrated Services 24-hour crisis line: 1.509.765.1717 or 1.800.852.2923
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1.703.527.4077 or 1.800.273.TALK
Suicide Prevention Text Line: Text HOPE to 741741


Attendance


Tardy To Class Procedure

1st tardy and 2nd Tardy=Teacher notification to student; documentation on Skyward; concrete consequence may be applied
3rd tardy=Automated or in-person call home informing parents of third tardy
4th and 5th tardy=Teacher Interventions must be attempted and documented on Skyward

  • Teacher/Student conference
  • Teacher/Parent communication
  • Before/After school makeup arrangement (at least 15 min. before/after)
  • Assignment makeup plan

6th tardy and beyond=Teacher referral to administration (all interventions are included and with the date)


Student Check-In/Check-Out

Check-In to School Process, once the day has started

If a student has a valid reason for arriving late to school, the student must check in at the main office with a note. Students will be given an excuse slip. If a student does not show up to class in a timely manner, or they will be counted absent.

If a student is LATE to SCHOOL w/o a written excuse they must sign in on HALL PASS in the office. Students will then be given a TARDY slip to class. Students are expected to get to class in a timely manner or they will be absent.

Check-Out of School during the scheduled school day

If a student has a valid reason for leaving while school is in session, the student must sign out at the attendance desk in the main office and submit parent/guardian permission to office staff.

  1. Any student who has an appointment during the school day must submit a note or have a parent/guardian call to the attendance office prior to leaving.
  2. The attendance office will issue a new note to the student to be presented to the classroom teacher in order to be dismissed from class.

Late to School Policy

Students that are “Late to School” will have to check in on Hall Pass in the office. After the SIX Late to School infractions a student will have to serve a lunch detention for each Late to School Offense over six. 

If the student/parent follows the pre-approval process, the parent is not required to physically sign out the student.  The pre-excused note will serve as parent permission.

If the student/parent fails to follow the pre-approval process, the parent will need to physically sign out the student at the attendance desk. 

If students do not check-in or check-out in the attendance office, they will be considered truant, and they will not be excused.

If a student leaves campus during lunch and does not return to school due to illness, a parent must call prior to the student leaving to excuse the student for not returning for the remainder of the day. 


Cell Phone Policy

Royal High School recognizes the importance of communication and collaboration, and provides devices for students to be productive in the classroom. To keep the focus on academics and reduce unnecessary distractions cell phones are not allowed in the classroom.

Each staff member needs to have an established cell phone policy. Policies need to be clearly outlined for students to refer to in the class syllabus. Students should not have cellphones on in class unless they are part of the lesson and approved by the teacher.

Cell phone infractions need to be reported in skyward in a progressive manner;

First Offense: Warning from teacher to student (classroom referral is started)

Second Offense: Call to parent/classroom strategy (checking in phone, put in wall holder, etc.)

Third Offense: Skyward referral to administration (switch over to office referral)

Further infractions may result in loss of cell phone privileges during the school time


Hall Pass Requirements

 

For a student to be in the hall during class; i.e. bathroom break, office, athletics, etc. a student must have a HALL PASS established with the classroom teacher. When a HALL PASS is granted the student MUST leave their Chromebook by the classroom door with a monitor in direct sight of the teacher. When they return students must enter “returned to class”. Students caught in the hall without a pass will be escorted back to class.


Dress Code


ASB Cards and Student Fees:

ASB cards are FREE.  This card entitles the student to free admission to all regular home athletic contests.

All fees and/or previous fines must be paid before participation in any school performance, trip or after school practice.


Parking

Students with a valid driver’s license are allowed to drive to school and park in the high school student designated parking areas.  The Royal School District considers this a privilege, not a right.  Therefore, students must adhere to the following guidelines:

  1. All drivers must comply with driving laws, which include proof of insurance, valid registration, and adherence to posted speed limits.

    The following procedures will be used to enforce the above parking policy:

  1. All student drivers MUST have a valid parking permit on the corner of their rear window. *Permits can be obtained through the HS Office
  2. Students CAN NOT park in STAFF/VISITOR designated parking areas. Staff parking is in the first row, closest to the school. Students parking in STAFF parking will be contacted and may lose the right to park on school property. PLEASE BE CONSIDERATE to our staff and visitors.
  1. Willingful or wanton disregard for safety of persons or property on school grounds will result in a loss of parking privileges on campus based upon the severity of the situation.
    1. RCW 46.61.500
  1. Students will be warned of his actions and parents will be contacted.
  2. Law enforcement will be contacted.

Emergency Procedures:

Evacuations:

When an emergency within a school or department necessitates total or partial closure of the schools within the district, threatens the safety and well-being of students, and/or interferes in the normal operation of the school. (District Policy and Procedure 3432)

Emergency procedures are posted in each classroom.  At the fire alarm signal, all students and faculty must leave the building via the posted emergency exit routes. Students must clear the building.

Secure and Teach or Lockdown:

Secure and teach is initiated to isolate students and staff inside the school from potential dangers outside the school. Secure and teach is typically used when events in the vicinity of the school may pose a threat.

Lockdown is initiated to isolate students and staff from immediate dangers which may include armed intruders, violent behaviors, suspicious trespassers, on-campus shootings, bomb threat, sniper, or nearby police activity. (District Policy and Procedure 3432)

In the event of any situation requiring an emergency lockdown, the following procedures will be followed:

  1. Students need to get into the nearest classroom.
  2. All students will remain in their classrooms until further notice.
  3. The classroom teacher will take roll to determine who is missing or added.
  4. The classroom teacher will secure and lock your classroom door.
  5. Then notify the office of lockdown compliance.

Student Contact and Deliveries

Deliveries to Students

Deliveries to students such as flowers, food, balloons, candy, birthday gifts, etcetera, will be delivered the last 5 minutes of the day and/or a note will be delivered to the student communicating to the student that they can pick up the delivery at the end of the school day.  

Messages to Students

Royal High School’s focus is on student learning and our school will focus on minimizing the impact of disruptions during class time.  Messages will be delivered during the last five minutes of class time. Arrangements must be made with students before or after school. 

Disruptive Devices and Valuables

Large sums of money and valuables must be left at home. Articles of value for class display should be locked in a teacher's cabinet or checked in at the main office.  If students bring any valuable item/s to school, they do so AT THEIR OWN RISK.

School personnel will take no responsibility for confiscated items.

The school and school district assume absolutely no responsibility for loss of students' personal property. Tablets, iPods, laptop computers, cameras, cell phones, and personal gaming devices, are not to be brought to school.  School personnel will not be required to investigate the loss or theft of those items.  Failure to adhere to this policy may result in disciplinary action.  

School Dances

Attendance at School Sponsored Dances 

Appropriate attire is required to attend all dances.  RHS administration reserves the right to refuse entrance to any function based on a student’s attire. Hats, masks, chains or other accessories such as these are not permitted at school sponsored dances.   

Dances sponsored by Royal High School are intended for Royal High School students. If a RHS student would like to bring an individual who is not a student at Royal High School, the guest approval process must be completed.  The guest approval form must be completed and submitted within established timelines.  Submission of the guest form does not guarantee that the guest will be admitted to the dance.  RHS administration reserves the right to deny guest approval based on information retrieved through a background check. If admitted, the guest will be required to present his/her photo ID at the dance entrance. Royal High School students seeking approval to attend non RHS dances must submit the host school’s guest approval form to RHS administration. The RHS administration will only approve students who are in “good standing”. Good standing is defined as a 2.0 GPA and no discipline within the last 6 months.

Search and Seizure (R.C.W. 28A.600.230)

School authorities may seize any contraband substance or object, the possession of which is illegal, or any material or object, which violates school rules or poses a hazard to the safety and good order of the school.  

School officials have the authority to conduct a search of the following when reasonable suspicion exists that the student is in possession of illegal or unauthorized items:

  1. A student’s person and/or personal effects.
  2. Student vehicles while on school property.
  3. Student lockers and storage areas.

Royal High School and its surrounding campus (including the school parking lots) are routinely searched by trained and certified detection canines. Classrooms, mixing areas, and student property searches will be completed by canines after students have been removed from the area.


Reporting Potential Safety Concerns

Safety is our top priority! One way to report a potential safety concern is to report it to SafeSchools. See reporting information below:

  • For emergencies, please call 911
  • Submit using our app
  • Visit the website
  • Email your tips to [email protected]
  • Call to report your tip: 509.776.0386
  • Text your tip to 509.776.0386

Our district code is: 1233

Concerns about potential harassment, intimidation, or bullying can also be reported to any staff member, who also has access to a hard copy Incident Report Form.


Student Code of Conduct


LOCKERS

Students can request a hall locker if they want. Contact HS Office secretary for a lock and combination. Lockers are to be kept neat and clean. 


Behavioral Violations

Again a behavioral violation is defined as “a student’s behavior that violates the district’s discipline policies”.

  1. Weapons, Dangerous Instruments, and Explosive Devices (RCW 9.41.280, 28A.600.230, 9.41.010, 9.41.250,  9.41.280, 9.41.270)
    It is the policy of the Royal School District that there be no tolerance for the possession or use of weapons, dangerous instruments, or explosive devices by students.  Students may not possess or use firearms, dangerous instruments, or explosive devices on school property, on school provided transportation, in areas or facilities being used exclusively by a school, or at a school sponsored event or activities. Dangerous weapons include and are not limited to: firearms, nun-chu-ka-sticks, throwing star, air gun, air pistol, air rifle, stun gun, knife, or any item that is used or could be used as a weapon.
    Possession or use of a firearm in violation of this policy shall result in a minimum of one (1) school term expulsion from the district.  The superintendent or designee may modify the mandatory expulsion on a case-by-case basis.  Exceptions to this policy may be made as only allowed by state law and authorized by the district.  Any student who possesses any weapon, or explosive devices, other than a firearm, in violation of this policy may be expelled or be subject to other school discipline as provided in board policy and state law. The district is authorized to expel any high school student who has violated the weapons policy.  Any student who brings a firearm will be expelled for no less than one school term.  The school must notify police and the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) of the incident.  Police do not need a warrant to arrest any person on school property who illegally possesses or has possessed a firearm or dangerous weapon. 
  2. Fighting and Threats (RCW 28A.635.030) (Gang Intimidation RCW 9A46.120)
    Fighting is defined as the exchange of hits or other violent physical contact between or among students, including arrangement of fights.  Communicating threats of violence or harm directly or indirectly, whether by physical, verbal, written, telephonic, or electronic means, which cause another person to believe his/her life, safety or property is in danger, or which cause a listener to believe that another person’s life, safety or property is in danger.  Threats need not be communicated to the intended victim.  Includes bomb threats, false alarms, threats of violence, etc. 
    Disciplinary action may include the following:
    1.  Parent Contact
    2.  Third Party Mediation
    3.  Non-Altercation Contract
    4.  Short Term Suspension
    5.  Long Term Suspension
    6.  Emergency Expulsion
    7.  Police Notification
  3. Extortion, Assault, and Causing Physical Injury (RCW 28A.635.100)
    A student will not extort anything of value, threaten physical injury, attempt to cause physical injury, cause physical injury, or intentionally behave in a way that could reasonably be expected to cause injury to another.

Disciplinary action may include the following:

  1. Parent Contact
  2. Lunch detention
  3. In-school suspension
  4.  Short Term Suspension
  5.  Long Term Suspension
  6.  Emergency Expulsion
  7. Expulsion
  8.  Police Notification

4.Bullying/ Harassment/ Intimidation (R.C.W. 9A. 36.080) 
Students are expected to respect the individual rights of all persons while on campus and at school functions or activities.  Everyone, including students, school personnel, parents, and community members are to be treated with respect.  Any form of harassment (including sexual), intimidation, or bullying will not be tolerated.  Bullying/Harassment is defined as intentional written, verbal, or physical bullying, intimidating, or harassing behavior that is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment.
Disciplinary action may include the following:

  1. Parent Contact
  2. Third Party Mediation
  3. Non-Altercation Contract
  4. In-School Suspension
  5. Short Term Suspension
  6. Long Term Suspension
  7. Emergency Expulsion
  8. Expulsion
  9. Police Notification

*See additional information about Sexual Harassment and Discrimination on pages 27-29.

5.  Vulgar or Lewd Conduct WAC 148-120-110

Initiating or participating in the dissemination of inappropriate messages or images including transmitting, viewing or possessing images of a sexually explicit nature on an electronic device. 

Disciplinary action may include the following:

  1. Parent Contact
  2. Detention
  3. In-school Suspension
  4. Short Term Suspension
  5. Long Term Suspension
  6. Emergency Expulsion
  7. Expulsion
  8. Police Notification

6.  Controlled Substances (R.C.W. 69.50.406, 28A.210.320)
Students may not possess, use, or be under the influence of controlled substances (including alcohol, marijuana, narcotics, tobacco, smokeless tobacco, unauthorized use of non-prescription and prescription drugs) while on school grounds or at any school sponsored function or activity.  The possession, use, sale, intent to sell, distribution, sharing or being under the influence of controlled substances on district property, district provided transportation, areas of facilities being used exclusively as school district property, or at district-sponsored activities is prohibited.  This includes any over- the- counter medication containing alcohol such as some cough or cold medications.

  Disciplinary action may include the following:

  1. Parent Contact
  2. Short Term Suspension
  3. Long Term Suspension
  4. Emergency Expulsion
  5. Expulsion
  6. Police Notification
  7. Drug and Alcohol assessment, screening, and counseling as recommended by treatment provider and/or school district hearing outcome.

7. Gang Activity (R.C.W. 28A.600.455)
Gang activity is defined as any gang violence, gesture, vandalism, intimidation, or disruption of learning related to gang activity in any manner will not be tolerated.

Any student wearing, carrying, or displaying gang-related apparel or devices; exhibiting behavior or gestures which symbolize gang membership; causing, participating in, and/or recruiting for gang-related activities; causing and/or participating in activities which intimidate or affect the attendance of another student; possessing, transmitting, or using gang-related images or pictures.

Students who gather for the intent of causing disruption to the normal function of the school day may be considered gang affiliated.

Students engaged in gang activity will face stringent discipline due to their affiliation with criminal enterprises.

Disciplinary action may include the following:

  1. Parent Contact;
  2. Short Term Suspension
  3. Long Term Suspension
  4. Emergency Expulsion
  5. Expulsion
  6. Police Notification

8. Disruptive Acts (RCW 28A.632.030)

Any action, behavior, or incitement of action or behavior which interferes with the duties of a staff member or the normal operation of the school; may include off-campus conduct if the conduct has the cause or effect of interfering with the normal operations of the school or district.

            Disciplinary action may include the following:

  1. Parent Contact
  2. Lunch Detention
  3. In-school Suspension
  4. Short Term Suspension
  5. Long Term Suspension
  6. Emergency Expulsion

9. Academic Dishonesty WAC 132Q-10-210

Cheating, stealing or sharing answers--verbally, nonverbally, in writing or photos on an object or electronically--plagiarizing, or any other form of academic dishonesty, including inappropriate use or misuse of the school’s computer network, will not be tolerated  in the school.  The teacher will confiscate all evidence, document the situation, and report it to an administrator.  The student will be subject to grade loss and/or disciplinary action.
Disciplinary action may include the following:

  1. Grade Loss
  2. Parent Contact
  3. Detention
  4. In-School Suspension

10. Dress Code (RCW 28A.320.140)

ALL students are expected to comply with guidelines outlined in the “Appropriate Dress” section of this handbook.

Disciplinary action may include the following:

  1. Reviewing the Student Handbook guidelines
  2. Parent Contact
  3. Parent Conference
  4. Detention
  5. In-school Suspension

            Procedure for Gang Dress (RCW 28A.600.455)

1st Offense:     Warning, student is required to change (enter Classroom referral)

2nd Offense:    Second warning, parent is contacted, students is required to change (add to Skyward)

3rd Offense:    Classroom referral is changed to office referral, Office discipline starts

 

11.  Other Disciplinary Infraction (RCW 28A.635.060)

Verbal abuse, malicious mischief, profanity, computer misuse, unauthorized access, false statements, alteration of records, trespass, entering another’s locker or desk, willful disobedience, burning, disruptive devices, possession of inappropriate materials, accumulation of referrals, bus misconduct, theft, burglary, coercion, robbery, damaging school or personal property, arson, violation of school rules or policies not listed, are all subject to disciplinary action based on severity of the incident, previous disciplinary record, academic progress, and conduct of the student.

Disciplinary action may include the following:

  1. Parent Contact
  2. Conference
  3. Detention
  4. Short Term Suspension
  5. Long Term Suspension
  6. Emergency Expulsion
  7. Police Notification
  8. Referral to an Outside Agency

DISCRIMINATION    WAC 392-400-020 

The Royal School District will provide equal educational opportunity and treatment for all students in all

aspects of the academic and activities program without discrimination based on race, religion, creed,

color, national origin, age, honorably discharged veteran or military status, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, marital status, the presence of any sensory, mental or physical disability, or the use of a trained dog to guide or service animals by a person with a disability. The district will provide equal access to school facilities to the Boy Scouts of America and all other designated youth groups listed in Title 36 of the United States Code as a patriotic society. District programs will be free from sexual harassment. Auxiliary aids and services will be provided upon request to individuals with disabilities.

Cody Miller, Title IX Officer & District Compliance Officer: [email protected], 955 Ahlers Ave. N, Royal City, WA 99357, 509.346.2256

Heather Quigley, Section 504 Coordinator: [email protected], 901 Ahlers Ave. N, Royal City, WA 99357, 509.346.2206

You can report discrimination and discriminatory harassment to any school staff member or to the District Compliance Officer, listed above. You also have the right to file a complaint (see below). For a copy of your district’s nondiscrimination policy and procedure, contact your school or district office or view it online: www.royalsd.org


SEXUAL HARASSMENT   WAC 478-121-150

Students and staff are protected against sexual harassment by anyone in any school program or activity, including on the school campus, on the school bus, or off-campus during a school-sponsored activity.

Sexual harassment is unwelcome behavior or communication that is sexual in nature when:

·   A student or employee is led to believe that he or she must submit to unwelcome sexual conduct or communications in order  to gain something in return, such as a grade, a promotion, a place on a sports team, or any educational or employment decision, or

·   The conduct substantially interferes with a student's educational performance, or creates an intimidating or hostile educational or employment environment.

Examples of Sexual Harassment:

·   Pressuring a person for sexual favors

·   Unwelcome touching of a sexual nature

·   Writing graffiti of a sexual nature

·   Distributing sexually explicit texts, e-mails, or pictures

·   Making sexual jokes, rumors, or suggestive remarks

·   Physical violence, including rape and sexual assault

You can report sexual harassment to any school staff member or to the district's Title IX Officer, who is listed above. You also have the right to file a complaint (see below). For a copy of your district’s sexual harassment policy and procedure, contact your school or district office, or view it online: www.royalsd.org


COMPLAINT OPTIONS: DISCRIMINATION AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT

If you believe that you or your child have experienced unlawful discrimination, discriminatory harassment, or sexual harassment at school, you have the right to file a complaint.
 
Before filing a complaint, you can discuss your concerns with your child’s principal or with the school district’s Section 504 Coordinator, Title IX Officer, or District Compliance Officer, who are listed above. This is often the fastest way to resolve your concerns.

Complaint to the School District

Step 1. Write Out Your Complaint

In most cases, complaints must be filed within one year from the date of the incident or conduct that is the subject of the complaint. A complaint must be in writing. Be sure to describe the conduct or incident, explain why you believe discrimination, discriminatory harassment, or sexual harassment has taken place, and describe what actions you believe the district should take to resolve the problem. Send your written complaint—by mail, fax, email, or hand delivery—to the district superintendent or civil rights compliance coordinator.

Step 2: School District Investigates Your Complaint

Once the district receives your written complaint, the coordinator will give you a copy of the complaint procedure and make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The superintendent or designee will respond to you in writing within 30 calendar days—unless you agree on a different time period. If your complaint involves exceptional circumstances that demand a lengthier investigation, the district will notify you in writing to explain why staff need a time extension and the new date for their written response.

Step 3: School District Responds to Your Complaint

In its written response, the district will include a summary of the results of the investigation, a determination of whether or not the district failed to comply with civil rights laws, notification that you can appeal this determination, and any measures necessary to bring the district into compliance with civil rights laws. Corrective measures will be put into effect within 30 calendar days after this written response—unless you agree to a different time period.

Appeal to the School District

If you disagree with the school district’s decision, you may appeal to the school district’s board of directors. You must file a notice of appeal in writing to the secretary of the school board within 10 calendar days after you received the school district’s response to your complaint. The school board will schedule a hearing within 20 calendar days after they received your appeal, unless you agree on a different timeline. The school board will send you a written decision within 30 calendar days after the district received your notice of appeal. The school board’s decision will include information about how to file a complaint with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).

Complaint to OSPI

If you do not agree with the school district’s appeal decision, state law provides the option to file a formal complaint with the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). This is a separate complaint process that can take place if one of these two conditions has occurred: (1) you have completed the district’s complaint and appeal process, or (2) the district has not followed the complaint and appeal process correctly.
 
You have 20 calendar days to file a complaint to OSPI from the day you received the decision on your appeal. You can send your written complaint to the Equity and Civil Rights Office at OSPI:
Email: [email protected] ǀ Fax: 360-664-2967
Mail or hand deliver: PO Box 47200, 600 Washington St. S.E., Olympia, WA 98504-7200
 
For more information, visit our website, or contact OSPI’s Equity and Civil Rights Office at 360-725-6162/TTY: 360-664-3631 or by e-mail at [email protected].

Other Discrimination Complaint Options

Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education
206-607-1600 ǀ TDD: 1-800-877-8339 ǀ [email protected] ǀ OCR Website
 
Washington State Human Rights Commission
1-800-233-3247 ǀ TTY: 1-800-300-7525 ǀ Human Rights Commission Website


*According to RCW 28A.300.286, beginning in the 24-25 school year, each school district is required to publish the following language in any handbook:

Our Schools Protect Students from Harassment, Intimidation, 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. This section defines HIB, explains what to do when you see or experience it, and our school’s process for responding to it.

What is HIB?

HIB is any intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act of a student that:

  • Physically harms another student or damages their property;
  • Has the effect of greatly interfering with another student’s education; or,
  • Is so severe, persistent, or significant that it creates an intimidating or threatening education environment for other students.

HIB generally involves an observed or perceived power imbalance and is repeated multiple times or is highly likely to be repeated. HIB is not allowed, by law, in our schools.

How can I make a report or complaint about HIB?

Talk to any school staff member (consider starting with whoever you are most comfortable with!). You may use our district’s reporting form to share concerns about HIB (https://www.royalsd.org/cms/one.aspx?pageId=12659661) but reports about HIB can be made in writing or verbally. Your report can be made anonymously, if you are uncomfortable revealing your identity, or confidentially if you prefer it not be shared with other students involved with the report. No disciplinary action will be taken against another student based solely on an anonymous or confidential report.

If a staff member is notified of, observes, overhears, or otherwise witnesses HIB, they must take prompt and appropriate action to stop the HIB behavior and to prevent it from happening again. Our district also has a HIB Compliance Officer (Cody Miller [email protected] 509-346-2256 ext. 3950) that supports prevention and response to HIB.

What happens after I make a report about HIB?

If you report HIB, school staff must attempt to resolve the concerns. If the concerns are resolved, then no further action may be necessary. However, if you feel that you or someone you know is the victim of unresolved, severe, or persistent HIB that requires further investigation and action, then you should request an official HIB investigation.

Also, the school must take actions to ensure that those who report HIB don’t experience retaliation.

What is the investigation process?

When you report a complaint, the HIB Compliance Officer or staff member leading the investigation must notify the families of the students involved with the complaint and must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 5 school days, unless you agree on a different timeline. If your complaint involves circumstances that require a longer investigation, the district will notify you with the anticipated date for their response.

When the investigation is complete, the HIB Compliance Officer or the staff member leading the investigation must provide you with the outcomes of the investigation within 2 school days. This response should include:

  • A summary of the results of the investigation
  • A determination of whether the HIB is substantiated
  • Any corrective measures or remedies needed
  • Clear information about how you can appeal the decision

What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?

For the student designated as the “targeted student” in a complaint:

If you do not agree with the school district’s decision, you may appeal the decision and include any additional information regarding the complaint to the superintendent, or the person assigned to lead the appeal, and then to the school board.

For the student designated as the “aggressor” in a complaint:

A student found to be an “aggressor” in a HIB complaint may not appeal the decision of a HIB investigation. They can, however, appeal corrective actions that result from the findings of the HIB investigation.

For more information about the HIB complaint process, including important timelines, please see the district’s https://www.royalsd.org/cms/one.aspx?pageId=12659661 or the district’s HIB Policy 3207 and Procedure 3207P.

Our School Stands Against Discrimination

Discrimination can happen when someone is treated differently or unfairly because they are part of a protected class, including their race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religion, creed, disability, use of a service animal, or veteran or military status.

What is discriminatory harassment?

Discriminatory harassment can include teasing and name-calling; graphic and written statements; or other conduct that may be physically threatening, harmful, or humiliating. Discriminatory harassment happens when the conduct is based on a student’s protected class and is serious enough to create a hostile environment. A hostile environment is created when conduct is so severe, pervasive, or persistent that it limits a student’s ability to participate in, or benefit from, the school’s services, activities, or opportunities.

To review the district’s Nondiscrimination Policy 5010 and Procedure 5010P, visit https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B646Pnkfm8DXMzhDRk9OeHRXbnc?resourcekey=0-Oz4yg4QNE8u-B--fYSzzjQ.

What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment is any unwelcome conduct or communication that is sexual in nature and substantially interferes with a student's educational performance or creates an intimidating or hostile environment. Sexual harassment can also occur when a student is led to believe they must submit to unwelcome sexual conduct or communication to gain something in return, such as a grade or a place on a sports team. 

Examples of sexual harassment can include pressuring a person for sexual actions or favors; unwelcome touching of a sexual nature; graphic or written statements of a sexual nature; distributing sexually explicit texts, e-mails, or pictures; making sexual jokes, rumors, or suggestive remarks; and physical violence, including rape and sexual assault.

Our schools do not discriminate based on sex and prohibit sex discrimination in all of our education programs and employment, as required by Title IX and state law.

To review the district’s Sexual Harassment Policy 3204 and Procedure 3204P, visit https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B646Pnkfm8DXMzhDRk9OeHRXbnc?resourcekey=0-Oz4yg4QNE8u-B--fYSzzjQ.

What should my school do about discriminatory and sexual harassment?

When a school becomes aware of possible discriminatory or sexual harassment, it must investigate and stop the harassment. The school must address any effects the harassment had on the student at school, including eliminating the hostile environment, and make sure that the harassment does not happen again.

What can I do if I’m concerned about discrimination or harassment?

Talk to a Coordinator or submit a written complaint. You may contact the following school district staff members to report your concerns, ask questions, or learn more about how to resolve your concerns.

Concerns about discrimination:

Civil Rights Coordinator: Cody Miller, Compliance/HIB/Title IX Coordinator, [email protected] 509-346-2256 ext. 3950. 

Concerns about sex discrimination, including sexual harassment:

Title IX Coordinator:   Cody Miller, Compliance/HIB/Title IX Coordinator, [email protected] 509-346-2256 ext. 3950. 

Concerns about disability discrimination:

Section 504 Coordinator: Heather Quigley, 504 Coordinator, [email protected] 509-346-2487 ext. 1801. 

Concerns about discrimination based on gender identity:

Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator:  Cody Miller, Compliance/HIB/Title IX Coordinator, [email protected] 509-346-2256 ext. 3950. 

To submit a written complaint, describe the conduct or incident that may be discriminatory and send it by mail, fax, email, or hand delivery to the school principal, district superintendent, or civil rights coordinator. Submit the complaint as soon as possible for a prompt investigation, and within one year of the conduct or incident.

What happens after I file a discrimination complaint?

The Civil Rights Coordinator will give you a copy of the school district’s discrimination complaint procedure. The Civil Rights Coordinator must make sure a prompt and thorough investigation takes place. The investigation must be completed within 30 calendar days unless you agree to a different timeline. If your complaint involves exceptional circumstances that require a longer investigation, the Civil Rights Coordinator will notify you in writing with the anticipated date for their response.

When the investigation is complete, the school district superintendent or the staff member leading the investigation will send you a written response. This response will include:

  • A summary of the results of the investigation
  • A determination of whether the school district failed to comply with civil rights laws
  • Any corrective measures or remedies needed
  • Notice about how you can appeal the decision

What are the next steps if I disagree with the outcome?

If you do not agree with the outcome of your complaint, you may appeal the decision to the Board of Directors and then to the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). More information about this process, including important timelines, is included in the district’s Nondiscrimination Procedure 3210P and Sexual Harassment Procedure 3205P.

I already submitted an HIB complaint – what will my school do?

Harassment, intimidation, or bullying (HIB) can also be discrimination if it's related to a protected class. If you give your school a written report of HIB that involves discrimination or sexual harassment, your school will notify the Civil Rights Coordinator. The school district will investigate the complaint using both the Nondiscrimination Procedure 3210P and the HIB Procedure 3207P to fully resolve your complaint.

Who else can help with HIB or Discrimination Concerns?

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI)

All reports must start locally at the school or district level. However, OSPI can assist students, families, communities, and school staff with questions about state law, the HIB complaint process, and the discrimination and sexual harassment complaint processes.

OSPI School Safety Center (For questions about harassment, intimidation, and bullying)

  • Website: ospi.k12.wa.us/student-success/health-safety/school-safety-center
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Phone: 360-725-6068

OSPI Equity and Civil Rights Office (For questions about discrimination and sexual harassment)

Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO)

The Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds works with families, communities, and schools to address problems together so every student can fully participate and thrive in Washington’s K-12 public schools. OEO provides informal conflict resolution tools, coaching, facilitation, and training about family, community engagement, and systems advocacy.

  • Website: www.oeo.wa.gov
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Phone: 1-866-297-2597

    U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR)

    The U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR) enforces federal nondiscrimination laws in public schools, including those that prohibit discrimination based on sex, race, color, national origin, disability, and age. OCR also has a discrimination complaint process.

  • Website: https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/index.html
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Phone: 800-421-3481

Our School is Gender-Inclusive

In Washington, all students have the right to be treated consistent with their gender identity at school. Our school will:

  • Address students by their requested name and pronouns, with or without a legal name change
  • Change a student’s gender designation and have their gender accurately reflected in school records
  • Allow students to use restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identity
  • Allow students to participate in sports, physical education courses, field trips, and overnight trips in accordance with their gender identity
  • Keep health and education information confidential and private
  • Allow students to wear clothing that reflects their gender identity and apply dress codes without regard to a student’s gender or perceived gender
  • Protect students from teasing, bullying, or harassment based on their gender or gender identity

To review the district’s Gender-Inclusive Schools Policy 3211 and Procedure 3211P, visit https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B646Pnkfm8DXMzhDRk9OeHRXbnc?resourcekey=0-Oz4yg4QNE8u-B--fYSzzjQ.

 If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Gender-Inclusive Schools Coordinator:

Cody Miller, Compliance/HIB/Title IX Coordinator, [email protected] 509-346-2256 ext. 3950.

For concerns about discrimination or discriminatory harassment based on gender identity or gender expression, please see the information above on page 4.


RHS Staff

Teacher Department Subject Room #
 Mrs. J. Christensen  Mathematics Department  Algebra I & II, AP Calc Ab & STATS, Geometry B304 
 Mrs. S. Christensen  Mathematics Department  Algebra I & II, AP Calculus, Geometry  B311
 Mr. Smith  Mathematics Department  Algebra I & II, Geometry, Leadership  B326
 Mrs. M. Christensen  Mathematics Department  Algebra I & II, Geometry  B313
 Mrs. Eilers  English Department  Applied Communications, Advance Writing
College in the Classroom, Var of Amer Literature
 B307
 Mr. Delgado  English Department  English 9 & 10, Junior & Senior Bridges  B308
 Mrs. West-Wilson  English Department  English 9, Var of Amer Literate  B320
 Mrs. Jones  English Department  English 9 & 10  B319
 Mr. Santiago  English Department  ELD Emerge, Interim & ADV  B337
 Ms. Barrett  English Department  ELD Interm & ADV  B336
 Dr. Carlson  Science Department  Chemistry, Chem Comm, Princ ENGR, Tech Math  B333
 Mr. A. Martinez  Science Department  Biology & Advance Biology  B335
 Mr. Elliott  Science Department  Bio Med & Human Body System  B327
 Mr. Santiago  Foreign Language  Spanish I & II  B337
 Ms. Cate  CTE Department  Ag Mech, Ag LDR & Com, Animal SCI
Woods, Wood II
 Shop
 Ms. Watkins  CTE Department  Floriculture, Horticulture, Intro to AG  Shop
 Mrs. Henson  CTE Department  Advance Culinary 2, Early CHD ED, 
Intro to Foods & IND Living
 B332
 Mr. Christensen  CTE Department  Personal Finance & Career Choices  B302
 Mr. Jensen  CTE Department  AP Comp SCI, Comp SCI ESS, Cyber SEC
ESPORTS, Multimedia DES, M.A.D.- D.P, 
Tech Support I & II, Video Prod
 B314
 Mr. Jenks  Physical Education Department  Weights & Advance Weights  B212
 Mr. Culler  Physical Education Department  Health, PE, Total Fitness  B102 & B210
 Ms. Janett  History Department  AP American Government U.S, Government  B309
 Mr. Griffin  History Department  U.S. History, AP U.S History, Yearbook  B312
 Ms. Schmidt  History Department  World History  B316
 Mr. Mietenkorte  Fine Arts/Library  Concert Band, Music Appreciation, Perc. ENS.  B447
 Mrs. Smith  Fine Arts/Library  Art I & II, Art Appreciation, Ceramics  B440
 Ms. Prentice  Fine Arts/Library  Library  B430
 Mr. Farver  Special Education Department  Func- Voc Sci, Reading, Math, LA Art, History  B446
 Mrs. Perkes  Special Education Department  RS Fresh & Soph, RS Math I & II, Inclusion  B310
 Mrs. Davis  Special Education Department  Math III & Bridges, RS Jr & Senior English   B315
 Ms. McCoy  Office Staff  Principal  Office
 Mr. Miller  Office Staff  Assistant Principal/CTE Director  Office
 Mr. Miller  Office Staff  Athletic and Activities Director  AD Office
 Ms. Martinez  Office Staff  Secretary  Office
 Ms. Marmolejo  Office Staff  Secretary  Office
 Mrs. Valdez  Office Staff  Athletic/Activities Department Secretary  AD Office
 Ms. Quigley  Office Staff  Counselor  B107
 Mr. Whitmire  Office Staff  Counselor  B106
 Ms. Rodriguez  Office Staff  Counselors Secretary  B104
 Mrs. Rodriguez  Support Staff  ESD 105 Community Prevention Specialist  Cafe. Office
 Ms. Martinez  Support Staff  ESD 105/SEL Counselor  N/A
 Mrs. Roldan  Support Staff  Behavior Interventionist/SEL counselor  Office 
 Mrs. Lafser   Support Staff  EL Instructional Coach 7th-12th  Office 
 Ms. Romero  Support Staff  Gear Up Coordinator   B105
 Officer Bronn  Support Staff  School Resource Officer  B433
 Lindsey Andersen  Paraprofessional  Life Skills Para  N/A
 Josie Cera  Paraprofessional  Life Skills/Resource Para  N/A
   Paraprofessional  Resource & Intervention Para  N/A
   Paraprofessional  Bilingual Para  N/A
 Andrea Prentice  Paraprofessional  Librarian  N/A
 Spencer  Sandoval-Holm  Paraprofessional  Life Skill Para  N/A
 Yazmine Devlieger  Paraprofessional SPED Para  N/A
 Jesus Vazquez  Paraprofessional  Bilingual Coordinator  N/A

Opt-Out Form

(Optional) 

Please read carefully and only submit if you wish to opt-out:

Under state and federal law, information a school district selects as directory information is considered information that can be released to the public without prior written parental consent. 

Royal School District considers the following information as directory information:

  • Student’s name
  • Student’s address
  • Dates of attendance
  • Participation in officially recognized activities
  • Weight and height of members of athletic teams
  • Degrees, honors and awards received
  • Any photograph, video or recording of a student’s likeness posted on any publications including mailings, website, social media, and others.

 

A parent may elect to opt-out of the release of directory information by completing and submitting this form.

 

Please note that opting out of directory information means your child will NOT be included in items such as the yearbook, graduation programs, district website, and district or local media stories.

 

I, as the parent/guardian, elect that Royal School District is NOT able to disclose directory information related to my child(ren) named below nor display my child’s/children’s images in any public form.

 

Child’s Name:

School:

Grade:

1.

 

 

2.

 

 

3.

 

 

4.

 

 

 

Parent/Guardian Printed Name:

Parent/Guardian Signature:

Date:

 

 

 

This form must be received by the end of the second week of a new school year.  It may be rescinded at any time by requesting so in writing.  Please submit to your child(ren)’s school office.

 

 

Please send it to the Royal High School Office.