Welcome to Renton.

This handbook is designed to help students meet their goals.  The procedures contained within were collaboratively produced by faculty, students, and parents to help all adjust to our school and become successful.  This handbook was designed in conjunction with district policy, state, and federal law.  

Carl T. Renton Junior High School is committed to building positive relationships, while providing students with rigorous and relevant programs.

The vision of Carl T. Renton Junior High School has provided a dedicated, passionate, and focused plan which promotes student achievement, relationship building, rigor, and relevance. We will communicate this plan with stakeholders, identify goals to advance our vision, and monitor our progress toward our goals. We will be passionate when cultivating relationships, planning and promoting rigor, and including relevant activities and opportunities for students.

• Our vision is to inspire personal growth in every student and to ignite a passion for learning and leadership.

• Establish a comprehensive and systematic communication plan to engage all members of our educational community.
• Institute a district technology plan that fosters research-based instructional technology, best practices, and professional development.
• Ensure vertical and horizontal alignment of curriculum, coordinated professional development, and sharing of best practices in order to provide rigorous and engaging classroom instruction to all students.
• Provide opportunities for staff and students to be leaders in our schools.
• Provide a safe and purposeful learning environment to meet the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs of every student.

• Research-based, differentiated instruction is essential for the success of all students.

• Curriculum alignment and sustained professional development are crucial for ensuring student and professional growth
• Every member of our educational community is important and has a voice in our schools.
• A safe, caring, respectful, and purposeful learning environment promotes teaching and learning.
• Strong systems of communication build relationships, promote understanding, ensure transparency, and foster awareness.
• Everyone can learn to lead and lead others to learn

• It is the policy of the Huron School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, or handicap in its educational programs, activities, or employment policies.
• The Huron School District has an asbestos management plan on file in the office for review upon request
• The Huron School District complies with the requirements of the Federal Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendment of 1989, Public Act 101-226.  Our curriculum includes teaching of the laws, consequences, techniques for resistance, and help available.

Elastic Clause: The school and administration reserve the right to establish fair and reasonable rules and regulations for circumstances that may arise requiring actions that are not covered in this handbook.  In all cases, rules, regulations, and consequences shall be as consistent as possible with previously established rules, regulations, and consequences for similar incidents.  Matters omitted from this handbook should not be interpreted as a limitation to the scope of the school’s responsibility and, therefore, the school’s authority in dealing with any type of infraction that may not be in the best interest of the safety and welfare of the students.  These rules and policies apply to any student who is on school property, who is in attendance at school or any school-sponsored activity, or whose conduct at any time or place directly interferes with the operations, discipline, or general welfare of the school, students, and staff.

Statewide School Safety Information: School crime and violence are multifaceted problems, which need to be addressed with coordinated efforts of the educational community, law enforcement, and families.  Schools will receive and report “reportable incidents” as defined in the School Safety Response Guide  

Office Staff:

• Parents are encouraged to participate and visit Renton at any time, however all visitors must report to the office and receive a visitor’s pass.
• Guests for students are not allowed.

• Students may use the telephone in the office.  The use of this phone should be limited to:

• Situations in which the student feels ill
• Transportation home from school

• Please be aware that all phone calls from Renton Junior High School will appear as

(734) 782-2483 on your device.

School Counselors:

Mrs. Karla Nash - Last Names A - K         

Mr. Dominic Vena - Last Names L - Z

Our Mission:

To help all students become the best version of themselves by providing a comprehensive and age appropriate counseling program that focuses on the social/emotional, academic, and career needs for all students.

What Does a School Counselor do?

• Listen to students when they have a problem
• Individual Counseling
• Small Group Counseling
• Classroom Guidance Lessons
• Crisis Intervention
• Consult with teachers and parents
• Refer for community services
• Scheduling

What are the Most Common Student Concerns?

• Anxiety
• Anger Management
• Friendship Issues/ Concerns
• Academic Support
• Conflict Resolution

How can Students Speak With a Counselor?

• Fill out form located in the counseling office
• Scan QR code located around the school
• Send email to counselor
• Let your teacher know

Fire, tornado, and safety drills will be conducted according to the State of Michigan requirements.  All Huron School District emergency plans are contained in a book located in the main office.  In addition, safety procedures are posted in each hallway.  If it is necessary to evacuate the building during the school day, each classroom is equipped with evacuation plans.  Students will be familiarized with evacuation plans and should check additional information posted in hallways.  Building evacuations will be done in an orderly manner.  All classroom windows must be shut and doors closed (except in the event of a tornado).  The principal or their designee will deliver instructions over the P.A. system.

Any accident or illness should be reported to the office immediately.  Parents / guardians should know that Renton staff treats all minor situations.  However, if a major accident should occur, we will notify parents / guardians immediately.  If no family can be reached, the principal will seek medical help for the student.

Renton expects parents / guardians to keep the office informed with up-to-date contact information.  All phone numbers such as home, mobile, and/or work need to be updated as soon as possible.  Every student needs to have an emergency card on file in the office.

• Updates to your MiStar account (which can include personal contact information can be done by following these directions)

Renton requests that parents / guardians notify the office of any physical / medical needs that may limit a student's ability to participate in the school day.

All medicine taken by students at school must be administered in Renton's office.  The medicine will be kept at the office with the school’s medicine control form.

Inhalers: Students may possess and use either a metered-dose inhaler or a dry powder inhaler to alleviate asthmatic symptoms, or before exercise to prevent the onset of asthmatic symptoms, at school, on school-sponsored transportation, ir at any activity, event or school-sponsored program provided the following conditions have been met:

1. Such a student has written approval to possess and use the inhaler from their physician or other healthcare providers
2. Such a student, if a minor, has written approval to possess and use the inhaler from their parent / guardian.
3. The principal, or their administrative designee, at Renton Junior High School, has received a copy of each written approval above.

• Students can enter the building no earlier than 7:30 am

• Breakfast is served between 7:30 am and 7:45 am

• Students need to exit the building at the end of the school day, unless they are participating in an after school activity

• This schedule is subject to change do to daily needs of the building
• There is no lunch served during half days
• Depending on the building needs, one of two half day schedules will be used

Most parent and community questions are easily and completely answered by communicating directly with the educator in charge of the classroom or program.  Each situation should be first addressed at whatever level the initial action occurred.

During this time in your life, education is your career.  Coming to school is your job and your basic job expectations are as follows:

1. Bring your charged Chromebook everyday to school
2. Take paper and pencil to every class
3. Take all appropriate textbooks to each class
4. Bring all materials that are required to every class
5. Be prepared and complete all homework assignments.

Individual rights relate to individual responsibilities and must be seen in relation to the safety, health, and welfare of all students in each school.  Expectations of student conduct should be kept within the bounds of reasonable behavior expected of all members of the community.  Students should have freedom and encouragement to express their individuality in school, as long as their conduct does not intrude upon the freedom of others.  This applies especially to the freedom of fellow students to receive instruction.  There must be a balance between individual freedom of fellow students to receive instruction.  There must be a balance between individual freedom and the orderly operation of a classroom.  All students should recognize the consequences of their language, manners, and actions toward each other and school staff.  Students need to understand that they benefit from an orderly school operation and as members of the school community acknowledge their responsibilities to promote a good learning environment.  If a student feels unsafe or is threatened, the student or the student’s parent/guardian should contact the administration.

Every Person has the right to be treated as an exceptional human being.  Being a student at Renton Junior High I have the following rights and responsibilities.

• The right to a good education.

• I have a responsibility to do my work, study and try my best.
• I have a responsibility to come to class prepared.
• I have the responsibility to allow my teachers to teach and classmates to learn without disruption.

• The right to be safe in school.

• I have a responsibility to help and support others.
• I have a responsibility to treat personal and school property with respect.
• I have the responsibility to follow school and district policies and safety rules.

• The right to be respected.

• I have to respect the individual personalities, (as long as it does not interfere with the rights of others) without disrespectful criticism or pressure from peers and cliques.
• I have the responsibility to refrain from physical abuse and/or verbal abuse such as name-calling, intimidation, or vulgar language.
• I have a responsibility to use appropriate language, swearing is not acceptable.
• I have a responsibility to treat others with kindness..

• The right to be treated fairly and equally.

• I have a responsibility to treat others the way I want to be treated.
• I have the responsibility for my actions and will work to find solutions for mistakes.

Breakfast at Renton is served between 7:30 am and 7:45 am.  

• Breakfast is free for all students.    
• Additional purchases must be made through the students' My Payment Plus Account.  Cash is not taken during this time.

Lunch at Renton is served by grade level.  Each grade will receive approximately 30 minutes to eat their lunch.  Ala carte items can also be purchased.  

• A standard lunch is free for all students.    
• Any additional a la carte lunch related costs must be made through the students' My Payment Plus Account.  
• Cash is accepted in the ala carte line.

To apply for federal assistance for breakfast and lunches please download the attached document and return it to Renton’s office.

• Free and Reduced Application

The primary purpose of the attendance policy is to encourage students to be present in their classes to attain maximum benefit from classroom activities.  There is a correlation between good attendance, academic success, and acceptance of responsibility.  In order to support the best educational environment possible the following attendance rules are in effect at Renton.

• The number of absences per trimester is a maximum of seven (7). All absences will count toward the seven (7) days and it is believed that these seven (7) days are sufficient for all but extreme circumstances.
• All students regardless of age are required to follow attendance sign-in and sign-out procedures.  Once the student signs out, the absence begins and the student must leave school property.
• Students are not normally permitted to leave school and return the same day unless they have an appointment that cannot be made after school hours.  If students plan to return to school the same day, a receipt or other notification from the medical provider, court officer, or another official must be present before the student is readmitted.  Exceptions to this section may be made by the administration.

This is a warning: The Huron Schools participate in the “ERASE TRUANCY” program with the Wayne County Prosecutor’s office.  If a student accumulates more than six (6) absences per trimester, they may be referred.

• ABSENCE / ILLNESS: Parents must call the school office and report absences
• EXPECTED ABSENCE: If a student knows ahead of time that he/she will be gone for an extended period of time.

• Students are given five minutes passing time to gather their materials, use the restroom and report to class.  If they do not report to class on time, they are marked tardy.  

• The first two recorded tardies will result in warnings
• The 4th recorded tardies will result in a phone call home and an assigned detention
• The fifth or more recorded tardy will result in an a day of in-school suspension for each recorded tardy

• If a student is more than five (5) minutes late to class, this is considered skipping.

• Skipping class is a Class A violation.

Information about student progress and work completion may be obtained from the student on a daily basis.  This daily dialogue is an important aspect of the parent/child relationship relative to academic progress.

While educators at the middle school value communication with parents, teachers may not provide parents with daily or weekly reports on student progress or individual assignments because that does not encourage the growth of student responsibility or communication between child and parent.  They also respond to requests for information pertaining to grade for students on plans of assistance.  Middle School is a time for students to make a transition from the dependent learning environment of the elementary school to the independent learning required for success at the secondary level.  Parents support student learning by establishing expectations at home, requiring students to spend time during the week studying, reviewing, and preparing for the next school day, and making education a family priority.   Learning is ultimately the responsibility of each student.

At the mid-trimester (6 weeks), progress reports are issued to students to help monitor their performance in individual classes.  Renton Junior High School stresses parent involvement in the student’s education and will report both positive and negative information to keep parents informed.

At the conclusion of each trimester, report cards will be issued.  These reports will include absences, comments regarding academic performance, and academic grades.

Students who receive a 3.0 grade point average on two of the three trimesters will become eligible for the Renton Junior High School Honor Roll.

• It is not the general policy of Renton Junior High School to double promote a student
• It is the policy of Renton Junior High School to place students transferring from another school at the recommended level of the previous school
• A student will earn credit for the successful completion of a course at the end of each trimester
• To be promoted to the next grade:  A student must pass two of the three credits in each of the four core academic areas (ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies).  

Renton Homework Policy

Textbooks are on loan to the student from the district.  If the assigned textbooks are damaged or lost it is the responsibility of the student and their families to cover these expenses.

Hall lockers are assigned to each student at Renton.  Each locker comes with a combination lock built into the locker.  Classroom materials that are currently not being used, coats, hats, backpacks, and lunches need to be stored in the students locker.

All lockers assigned to the students are the property of Huron School District.  At no time does the District relinquish the exclusive control of its lockers.  The school principal or their designee shall have custody of all combinations to all lockers or locks.  Students are prohibited from placing locks on any locker without the advance approval of the schools principal or their designee.

Each student at Renton is assigned a Chromebook.  These Chromebooks are on loan to the student from the district.  If the assigned Chromebook is damaged or lost it is the responsibility of the student and their families to cover these expenses.  (See Electronic Devices)

Any item that is purchased by the District, the School, or a Building Employee and is damaged or lost by a student is the responsibility of the student and their family.

The purpose of a dress code is to allow students to demonstrate their individuality while maintaining a sensitivity to and respect for others.  Students at Renton are expected to wear clothing and to manage their appearance in such a manner that does not disrupt the educational setting, interfere with health or safety, or promote vulgarity.  

The Administration reserves the right to restrict clothing, grooming, and/or accessories not mentioned below should it be contrary to the educational environment; for example, extreme hairstyles, excessive make-up, and /or revealing styles, etc.

• Hats, hoods and other head coverings may not be worn inside the building.

• Exceptions will be made for religious garments.

• Tops must cover neck to shoulder cap and be closely tapered around the armpit

• Administration views shirts that have the shoulder cut-outs as not meeting dress-code standards.  

• Midriffs must be covered
• Necklines can not be plunging or revealing.
• Tops may not be of see-through material and must not reveal undergarments
• Clothing with obscene or suggestive language or pictures is not permitted. It may also not promote inappropriate messages or represent gangs, violence, drugs, alcohol or tobacco.

• Pants must be worn without rips, holes or tears above the mid-thigh level.

• Any rips or holes above the mid-thigh level must have material under them.  No skin can be showing above the mid-thigh level.

• Bottoms may not be of see-through material and must not reveal undergarments

• All pants, shorts, and skirts must be worn at waist level and may not expose undergarments of any kind.

• Footwear must be worn at all times.  

• ALL footwear must have a hard protective bottom
• Slippers are not permitted

• Book bags, coats, and sunglasses must be left in the lockers and not worn to class.
• Purses are allowed to be carried to class, but can not be any larger than a textbook.

• Purses are to be kept under the students seat.
• Any student abusing this privilege will be required to leave their purse in their locker.

The use of any electronic device at Renton Junior High School is a privilege.  The use of these devices while in school is solely at the discretion of the Huron School District.  The use of any electronic device within Renton Junior High School is subject to the HSD Technology Agreement.

All students at Renton Junior High School will be issued a chromebook.  This chromebook, along with it’s charger, are the property of the Huron School District.  This device will be considered the same as other school property that is on loan to a student.  The device will be checked out to the student and is expected to be returned in the same condition as it was given.  Any and all damage to the device and it’s charger will be the responsibility of the student and their family.

• ONLY Huron School District chromebooks are permitted to be used in Renton Junior High School.

Students are permitted to bring their cellular phones, smart watches, and ear buds into Renton Junior High School.  

They may have limited use of their devices:

• Before the start of school
• After the school day has ended

Their devices will be stored during:

• During instructional time

• The teacher may make the exception and allow students to use their device during what’s considered instructional time.

Students are not permitted to make or receive phone calls at any time during the school day.  If a phone call is necessary, the student needs to go to the office.

Please do not call or text your child during the school day.  Students are not permitted to use their phones during the school day.  Phone calls and texts create unwanted classroom distractions.  If your child reaches out to you, please encourage them to speak with a staff member about their concern.  Renton staff can help immediately with an issue, whereas a parent cannot do much from home or work.

In order to respect the privacy of our students’ all electronic devices are not permitted in bathrooms or locker rooms.   Electronic devices in these areas will be confiscated.

Students are not permitted to have earbuds of any kind in their ears during passing times.  

The use of any electronic device to record (whether audio or video) without the consent of Administration or their designee, within the school day is strictly prohibited (Code A Violation).

Exclusion: When a student is removed from a classroom.

• Behavior that could result in an exclusion includes, but is not limited too:

• Any behavior that is considered to cause a disruption to the learning environment
• Repeated exclusions may result in further disciplinary action

Temporary Suspension: When a student is denied the right to attend school, be present on school property, or attend any school related function.  This denial may not exceed ten consecutive school days.

Procedure for Temporary Suspension:

• An informal hearing is held involving a building administrator (or their designated representative) and the student.  The student is advised of the misconduct with which they are charged and the evidence supporting the charge.  The student may present their version of the alleged incident.
• If at the conclusion of the informal hearing the building administrator (or their designated representative) determines that the student has engaged in the stated misconduct, a temporary suspension may be imposed.
• The student’s parent/guardian is notified
• The student or their parent/guardian may make an appeal to the Superintendent.  The Superintendent shall review the determination of the building administrator (or their designated representative).  

• Filling an appeal, shall not serve to stay the imposition of a temporary suspension.
• There is no appeal of temporary suspension to the Board of Education

Teacher Imposed Suspension: 1999 PA 103, permitted teachers to suspend a student from any class or activity for up to one day.  

• The teacher will send the student to the office after notifying a building administrator of the suspension immediately.  The student shall not return to the teacher’s classroom for one full day, without the mutual agreement of the teacher and the building administrator.  

Expulsion: The permanent exclusion of a student from Hurson School District based on the student’s misconduct.  Misconduct for purposes of long term suspension and expulsion shall be defined as a gross misdemeanor or persistent disobedience.  “Gross misdemeanor” is conduct that substantially interferes with the ordinary education or other students, jeopardizes the health and safety of staff or students, represents wilful disrespect or disregard for school authority, destroys school property, is disorderly, or represents an unreasonable accumulation of infractions of school rules, none of which by itself is serious enough to warrant suspension.

• Grounds for expulsion also include certain behavior specifically prohibited by the Revised School Code including possession of a dangerous weapon, commission or arson in a school building or on school grounds, commission of criminal sexual conduct, making a school threat, or verbally / physically assaulting a school employee, volunteer, or contractor.
• Suspension Pending Expulsion Hearing: Whenever the principal and the superintendent concur in a recommendation for expulsion, the student may be suspended for an indefinite period pending the expulsion hearing before the Board of Education.
• Expulsion: Expulsion means that the student is excluded from school indefinitely, and the principal shall have such power to do this.  Any formal action toward the student will be taken at the next regularly scheduled Board of Education meeting.
• Right of Appeal: Students and parents who are dissatisfied with the outcome of a suspension or the recommendations of the expulsion hearing have the right to appeal that decision to the superintendent by informing him in writing that they wish to appeal the principal’s decision.

Long Term Suspension: When a student is denied the right to attend school, be present on school grounds, or attend any school function for a period or more than ten (10) days.

Procedure for Long Term Suspension:

• An informal hearing is held involving a building administrator (or their designated representative) and the student.  The student is advised of the misconduct with which they are charged and the evidence supporting the charge.  The student may present their version of the alleged incident.
• The student’s parent/guardian is notified
• If, at the conclusion of the informal hearing the building administrator (or their designated representative) determines that the student has engaged in the stated misconduct which merits the imposition of a long term suspension or expulsion, the administrator (or their designated representative) shall recommend that the student be so disciplined, identifying the basis upon which their recommendation is founded and shall forward such a recommendation to the Superintendent.  
• In the event an offense has been committed, which following investigation, results in an administrative recommendation for expulsion, the Superintendent may impose a suspension pending disposition of the recommendation by the Board of Education.
• If at the conclusion of the investigation of the charges by the administrator and the conclusion of an informal hearing the building administrator determines that the student has not engaged in misconduct, all charges are dropped and records of the incident are removed from the student’s file.  
• If a student, parent, or guardian does not accept the administrative decision of long term suspension or expulsion, it may be appealed to the Superintendent.  The Superintendent, after hearing the appeal, may decide to support and convey a recommendation for long-term suspension or expulsion to the Board of Education.  The Board of Education hearing on the matter shall be scheduled within ten (10) days following the commencement of the student’s suspension.
• Prior to the hearing the Superintendent shall notify the student and his/her parents or guardians of the recommendation for long-term suspension or expulsion, and shall invite them to appear before the Board of Education, with legal counsel if desired, on the date scheduled for the hearing.  The Superintendent shall notify them that the hearing shall be open or closed to the public based on their desires, and shall request a timely response as to whether they wish an open or closed hearing.
• An expulsion hearing before the Board of Education is the student’s and the parents’ opportunity to appeal to the Superintendent’s recommendation for long-term suspension or expulsion.  An attorney or another advisor at all hearings may represent the student or parents.  There may be present at the Board of Education hearing the principal, the Board of Education attorney, and any other resource person, as the President of the Board of Education, deems essential to the proper adjudication of the case.  The hearing before the Board of Education may be open or closed to the public based on the desires of the student and/or parents or legal guardians.  Both parties have the right to present evidence at the hearing.  The hearing is not a court proceeding and court rules other than those stated in this Student Code of Conduct shall not be enforced at such hearings.  At the hearing in the matter, the administrator or his/her behalf.  The hearing is not bound by formal rules of evidence.  The Board of Education or its hearing officer shall admit and give probative effect to evidence of a type commonly relied upon by reasonably prudent men in the conduct of their affairs.  Disclosure of the identity of students providing information relative to the charges may be limited in accordance with statutes and case law concerning student discipline proceedings.  
• The Board of Education may accept, reject, or modify the administrative recommendation.  Within five (5) days following the hearing, the Board of Education shall in a written report provide the decision to the person initiating the appeal.
• If there is reasonable cause to believe that a student who has been charged with misconduct is a child with a disability within the meaning of Section 1401 of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (“IDEA”), 20USC 33, student has not previously been evaluated by the Huron School District or Wayne County RESA, such an evaluation must occur prior to the Board of Education hearing.  If the student has previously been identified as disabled, or it is determined upon evaluation that the student is disabled, it shall be determined whether the events, which are the subject of the charges, were related to the student’s disability, the foregoing procedures shall resume from the point at which the student was suspended.  If the incident involved is related to the student’s disability, the school shall convene an Individualized Education Program Committee to review the matter and determine the appropriate educational program for the student.

Any student charged with illegal behavior will be dealt with immediately by the Principal or Assistant Principal and may be immediately suspended from school pending a hearing, which must take place within 72 hours.  Except in the event of repeated offenses (two or more), offenses constituting General Prohibited Behavior may not be punished by suspension or expulsion, unless the Principal and the Superintendent concur in a decision for immediate suspension.

Illegal Behavior:

• Academic Dishonesty: Use of “cheat sheet”, copying another student's work.
• Arson: The willful and malicious burning or attempt to burn any part of any building or any property (including automobiles) belonging to persons employed by the school or in attendance at the school.

• Public Act 451 of 1976, Section 1311 (2) prohibits a student from committing arson in school, in a school building, on school grounds, or on any other school property.  Any such behavior will result in permanent expulsion from school, subject to possible reinstatement.  A student thus expelled shall be referred to the criminal justice system and the appropriate County Department of Social Services or community mental health agency.

• Battery: The unlawful intentional touching or application of force to another person, done in a rude, insolent or angry manner.  A verbal or physical attack on a staff member will result in a longer-term school suspension or expulsion.
• Burglary, Theft, Robbery, Larceny: Stealing money or property.
• Extortion, Coercion, Blackmail: Obtaining money or property (something of value) from an unwilling person or forcing an individual to act by either physical force or intimidation (threat).
• Physical or Verbal Assault: An attempt or threat to inflict corporal bodily harm upon another, under such circumstances as denoted at the time and having the intent, and present ability to carry such intent into effect.  No actual body contact is necessary.

• Public Act 451 of 1976, Section 1310 prohibits assault between students.  If a student in grade 6 or above commits a physical assault at school against another student, the District shall suspend or expel the student for up to 180 school days.
• Public Act 451 of 1976, Section 1311a prohibits a physical assault by a student against any persons employed or engaged as a volunteer or contractor for the District.  If a student in grade 6 or above commits such assault, the District shall expel the student from the District permanently, subject to possible reinstatement.
• “Physical assault” is defined by statute as intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical harm to another through force or violence.
• “At school” means in a classroom, elsewhere on school premises, on a school bus or other school-related vehicle, or at a school-sponsored activity or event whether or not held on school premises.
• The District shall not allow a student to verbally assault another student.  If a student in grade 6 or above commits a verbal assault at school against another student, the District shall suspend or expel the student for up to 180 school days.
• Public Act 451 of 1976, Section 1311a prohibits a verbal assault at school by a student against any persons employed or engaged as a volunteer or contractor for District.  If a student in grade 6 or above commits such an assault, the length of discipline shall be at the discretion of the District.
• “Verbal assault” means any statement or act, oral or written, which can reasonably be expected to induce another person to be in apprehension or danger of bodily injury or harm, or the use of offensive language directed at a person, where such language is likely to provoke a reasonable person to physical violence.

• Possession of Weapons or other Dangerous Objects: Carrying, using or storing weapons or other dangerous objects (e.g. explosives or firecrackers) in a school building or on school grounds.  Weapons are identified in two (2) categories

• Articles commonly used or designed to inflict bodily harm or to intimidate other persons.  Examples are firearms, knuckles, knives, chains, and clubs
• Articles designed for other purposes that could be easily used to inflict bodily harm and/or intimidate.  Examples include, but are not limited to: belts, combs, files, and compasses.  Students acting in an aggressive or belligerent manner with any such article will be adjudged to be in possession of a weapon.
• Public Act 451 of 1976, Section 1311 (2) requires that the District shall permanently expel a student who possesses a dangerous weapon in a Weapon-Free School Zone.  Additionally, a student shall not have possession of or use of a legitimate tool, instrument, or equipment as a weapon, or use a dangerous instrument capable of harming another person.  A student thus expelled shall be referred to the criminal justice system and the appropriate County Department of Social Services or community mental health agency.
• A school board is not required to expel a student for possessing a weapon if the student establishes by clear and convincing evidence at least one of the following:
• The objector instrument possessed by the student was not possessed by the student for use as a weapon, or for direct or indirect delivery to another person for use as a weapon; or

• The weapon was not knowingly possessed by the student; or
• The student did not know or have reason to know that the object or instrument possessed by the student constituted a dangerous weapon; or
• The weapon was possessed by the student at the suggestion, request, or direction of, or with the express permission of, school or police authorities.

• “Weapon-Free School Zone” is defined as school property and/or a vehicle used by a school to transport students to or from school property.
• “School Property” means a building, playing field, or property used for school purposes to impart instruction to children or used for functions or events sponsored by a school, except a building used primarily for adult education or college extension courses.
• “Legitimate tool” includes, but is not limited to, pens, pencils, compasses, or combs.
• “Dangerous instrument” includes, but is not limited to, Chemical Mace, pepper gas or like substances, stun guns, BB guns, pellet guns, razors, or box cutters.

• Sale, Use, Possession, or Distribution of Illegal Drugs or Tobacco Material or Substances or Alcoholic Beverages: Selling, distributing, using or possessing tobacco,  illegal drugs, materials, substances or alcoholic beverages on school property or at school functions, including bringing such items into the school for another person or having such items on one’s person or placing them in a locker or hiding place.

• In accordance with federal and state law, the Board of Education prohibits the use, possession, concealment of distribution of drugs by students on school grounds, in school or school-approved vehicles, or at any school-related event.  Drugs include any alcoholic beverage, anabolic steroids, and dangerous controlled substance as defined by state statute or substance that could be considered a "look-a-like” controlled substance.  Hookah pens, E-cigarettes, liquid narcotics and hallucinogens (Cloud 9, Hookah relax, etc.) are illegal for students to have and are not allowed on school grounds or the bus. Hookah pens that have a reservoir for liquid will be considered drug paraphernalia.  Liquid Hallucinogens (Cloud 9, Hookah Relax, etc.) will also be considered drug paraphernalia. Drug paraphernalia is a 10-day suspension and police citation. Liquid narcotics and e-cigarettes are considered nicotine-based products like tobacco products and fall under the possession or use of tobacco products guidelines.  
• Any student found guilty of drug and/or alcohol use and/or possession will be recommended for long-term suspension or expulsion.  The student will not be allowed to seek re-admittance to Renton Junior High until it has been verified by the administration that they have submitted to an assessment by a substance abuse agency.  This assessment will be at their own expense, including any recommendation made pursuant to the assessment (i.e., counseling, treatment, therapy, etc.).  The student must then appear before the Board of Education with their legal guardian to request re-admittance to Renton Junior High School.  Any second offense will result in permanent expulsion. Hookah pens, E-cigarettes, liquid narcotics and hallucinogens (Cloud 9, Hookah relax, etc) are illegal for students to have and are not allowed on school grounds or the bus. 

Hookah pens that have a reservoir for liquid will be considered drug paraphernalia.  Liquid Hallucinogens (Cloud 9, Hookah Relax, etc.) will also be considered drug paraphernalia.  Drug paraphernalia is a 10-day suspension and police citation.   Liquid narcotics and e-cigarettes are considered nicotine-based products like tobacco products and fall under the passion or use of tobacco products guidelines.

• Compliance with this policy is mandatory for all students.  Any student who violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, in accordance with due process and as specified in the student handbooks, up to and including expulsion from school.  When required by state law, the District will also notify law enforcement officials.  

The District is concerned about any student who is a victim of alcohol or drug abuse and will facilitate the process by which he/she receives help through programs and services available in the community.  Students and their parents should contact the school principal or counseling office whenever such help is needed.

• Vandalism: Malicious destruction of property.  Destruction or defacing of property belonging to, rented by or on loan to the school system or property (including automobiles) of persons employed by the school or in attendance in the school.
• Acts or Threats of Incitement to Violence: Words, acts or deeds that may threaten to do injury or bodily harm to another person or that intimidates another person through fear for his/her personal safety.
• False Alarms – Activating the fire alarm system in any school building or school property and/or reporting a fire or bomb when none exists.
• Smoking in School or on School Property: Using or carrying tobacco.  State law requires a juvenile petition be filed.
• Sexual Harassment: Verbal abuse or physical touching that is sexually intimidating.

• Unwanted physical contact, sexually abusing comments, displaying material offensive to others based on sex, or making inappropriate comments because of, or focusing on, the issue of another’s sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation.

• Other Felonious Conduct: Any and all conduct that constitutes an offense under the laws of the State of Michigan.
• Dialing 911 from any School Phone: Any student who dials 911 from any school phone will be reported to the proper authority.  May result in a short term to a long-term suspension.
• Criminal Sexual Conduct: Public Act 451 of  1976, Section 1311 (2) prohibits a student from committing criminal sexual conduct in a school building, on school grounds, or on any other school property.  If a student engages in such conduct, the District shall expel the student permanently subject to reinstatement.  A student thus expelled shall be referred to the criminal justice system and the appropriate County Department of Social Services or community mental health agency.

• “Criminal sexual conduct” means a violation as set forth in Chapter LXXVI or the Michigan Penal Code (MCL 750.520B to MCL 750.520g).

General Prohibited Behaviors:

• Insubordination: Refusal to respond to or to carry out reasonable and lawful directions of authorized school personnel.
• Verbal Abuse: Name-calling, racial slurs, profanity, creation of memes, or derogatory statements addressed publicly to others designed to precipitate disruption of the school progress or incite violence.
• Loitering / Trespassing: Being in a school building on school property during school hours or during extracurricular activities at a site other than where the student is enrolled without having promptly secured authorization from the school office.
• Refusal to Identify Self: Refusing to show identification card and/or to give a correct name when requested to do so by school personnel, or the use of another person’s name or identify.
• Public Displays: Public displays of affection is not acceptable behavior. Display of affection is defined as a demonstration of one’s affection toward another person at an appropriate time and place. However, public displays of affection and/or physical contact (UNDUE FAMILIARITY) are not considered acceptable behavior. This includes kissing, touching, petting or any other contact that may be considered sexual in nature. Excessive displays of affection may result in suspension from school or possibly expulsion
• Truancy: Unexcused absences from classes, lunchroom, homeroom, or chronic tardiness.  The student will be charged with a skip if he/she is more than five (5) minutes tardy.
• Gambling: Participating in games of chance or skill for money or profit.
• Student Demonstrations: Any form of student protest or demonstration that results in disruption of the normal educational process or that is conducted in a manner that violates legal restraints.
• Excessive Absence: In pursuing quality standards for accreditation and meeting the daily average attendance of at least 90%, a student will be allowed no more than seven (7) non-suspension absences per marking period to receive a grade.  An attendance committee will review medical documentation.  The committee’s decision will be final. Renton works in cooperation with the Wayne County “Erase Truancy” program.
• Disruption or other Misconduct: Other misconducts, not listed above that disrupts or interferes with the educational process.
• Food: All food and beverages purchased in the cafeteria/vending machines must be eaten in the cafeteria.  
• Unnecessary Roughness: Engaging in physical activity (horseplay) that threatens the safety of another student.
• Instigating: Any act that leads to a potential situation in which a fight may occur but has not yet taken place.  This includes students who engage in or encourage disruptive verbal confrontations during or after school.  Such behavior may include, but are not limited to shouting, pushing, foul language, racial/ethnic or sexual slurs.
• Bullying / Hazing:

• Bullying is the repeated intimidation of others by the real or threatened infliction of physical abuse, or through physical, verbal, written, electronically transmitted, or emotional attacks on the property of others in the school setting.
• Hazing is intentional, knowing, or reckless act meant to induce physical pain, embarrassment, humiliation, deprivation of rights or that creates physical or mental discomfort.
• Forms of Bullying / Hazing

• Indirect / Verbal Being unfriendly, excluding, stealing money or possessions, name-calling mean spirited humor, spreading unkind rumors, teasing, or generally tormenting another for the purpose of humiliating another.

• This can be in person, on paper, or through the use of electronic devices and/or virtual media

• Racist: Racially derogatory statements, taunts, graffiti, or inappropriate gestures.

• Policy Statement:

• The District recognizes that Bullying, as defined above, is disruptive of the educational process, and can have many negative and long term effects on its victims, and therefore, is unacceptable behavior that will not be tolerated.  Every individual in the District has a right to be treated with respect, and feel free from any fear of being victimized or intimidated.
• Students who engage in any act of bullying while at school, at any school function, in connection to or with any District sponsored activity or event, or while en route to or from school are subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or expulsion.
• The superintendent may develop additional administrative regulations and programs that will further these policies proposed by involving the school community.

The following outline represents disciplinary action for student conduct violations.  The disciplinary action for these violations has been approved by the Board of Education or required by the Revised School Code.  Discipline will fit the circumstances of the offense.

* Requires approval of the Superintendent and Board of Education

* Repeat offenses or serious incidents may result in more severe punishments or penalties including referral to the Board of Education for expulsion.

• Whenever possible, progressive discipline is used

• A Huron Township Police Officer/Liaison is available to Renton Junior High.  Students, parents, staff and community members can all benefit from this service.  Complete information is available in the Renton Junior High Main office or through the police officer directly.

• Questioning by a Police Office: If a student is questioned by a police officer, the school administration will attempt to see that:

• The questioning takes place privately in the office of a school official (e.g. the principal, assistant principal, or his/her designee).
• Parents/guardians are notified of the questioning.
• Student’s records (except directory information) will remain confidential to the extent permitted by law.

• To maintain order and discipline in Renton Junior High School and to protect the safety and welfare of students and staff, school officials have the right to conduct reasonable searches of student and school property.

• School Property: Student desks and other such property are owned by the school district, which exercises exclusive control over them.  Students should not expect privacy regarding items placed in/on school property because school property is subject to search at any time by school officials.
• Personal Property: Students and their personal property (backpacks, purses, etc.) are subject to search if a school official has reasonable cause to believe that a student is in possession of illegal, unauthorized (stolen), hazardous, or contraband materials.
• Canine/Metal Detectors: The school administration may use canine and metal detectors to search for illegal, unauthorized (stolen), hazardous, or contraband materials.
• Reasonable Cause: A belief based on specific reasonable inferences which an administrator is entitled to draw from the facts in light of his/her experience.  Specific reasonable inferences may be drawn from instances including, but not limited to a tip from a reliable student, suspicious behavior, smells, or bulges in a pocket, and the like.
• Contraband: All substances or materials, the presence of which is prohibited by school policy and/or state law, including but not limited to controlled substances, drugs, alcohol, tobacco or alcoholic beverages, combustible glue or aerosol paint, guns, knives, weapons, incendiary and explosive devices.

• Lockers are School Property:

• All lockers assigned to pupils are the property of the School District.  At no time does the District relinquish the exclusive control of its lockers.  The school principal or his/her designee shall have custody of all combinations to all lockers or locks.  Pupils are prohibited from placing locks on any locker without the advance approval of the school principal of his/her designee.

• Legitimate use of School Lockers:

• The school assigns lockers to its pupils’ convenience and temporary use.  Pupils are to use lockers exclusively to store school-related materials and authorized personal items such as outer garments, footwear, grooming aids, or lunch.  Pupils shall not use the lockers for any other purpose, unless specifically authorized by the School Board policy or the school principal or his/her designee, in advance of pupils bringing the items to school.  Pupils are solely responsible for the contents of their lockers and should not share their lockers with other pupils, or divulge locker combinations to other pupils unless authorized by the school principal or his/her designee.

• Search of Locker Contents:

• Random searches of school lockers and their contents have a positive impact on deterring violations of school rules and regulations, ensure proper maintenance of school property, and provide greater safety and security for pupils and personnel.  Accordingly, the Board authorizes the school principal or his/her designee to search lockers and locker content at any time, without notice and without parental/guardianship or pupil consent.
• The school principal or his/her designee shall not be obligated, but may request the assistance of a law enforcement officer in conducting a locker search.  The school principal or his/her designee shall supervise the search.  In the course of a locker search, the school principal or his/her designee shall respect the privacy rights of the pupil regarding any items discovered that are not illegal or against school policy and rules.

• Seizure:

• When conducting locker searches, the school principal or his/her designee may seize any illegal or unauthorized items, items in violation of Board policy or rules, or any other items reasonably determined by the school principal or his/her designee to be a potential threat to the safety or security of others.  Such items include, but are not limited to the following, firearms, explosives, dangerous weapons, flammable material, illegal controlled substances or controlled substance analogs or other intoxicants, contraband, poisons, and stolen property.  
• Law enforcement officials shall be notified immediately upon seizure of such dangerous items of seizure of terms that school is required to report to law enforcement agencies under the Statewide School Safety Information Policy.  Any items seized by the school principal or his/her designee shall be removed from the locker and held by school officials for evidence in disciplinary proceedings and/or turned over to law enforcement officials.  The parent/guardian of a minor pupil, or a pupil eighteen (18) years of age or older, shall be notified by the school principal or his/her designee of items removed from the locker.

• Prior to acting on a staff member’s recommendation for a long term (over 10 days) suspension or expulsion from school, the administration shall accord the student the rights of due process afforded in all cases of student discipline.

• This Policy shall not be interpreted to prohibit a reasoned and civil exchange of opinions, or debate that is protected by state or federal law.