Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students:
I hope that you are as excited as I am to return to Red Jacket for the 2011-2012 on opening day! Though this will be my first year as Principal, I am certainly familiar with RJHS, having been a teacher and advisor here for many years. I look forward to serving the Manchester-Shortsville community in this new role. As a parent, I understand the tremendous amount of trust it takes to place your children in the hands of someone else. Please know that I will never betray that trust.
The 2010-2011 school year ended on a remarkable high note. Nine out of ten Regents exams saw passing rates exceeding 90% and seven out of ten saw at least 45% of students passing with an 85 or above. These statistics are truly remarkable and demonstrate that Red Jacket High School remains on par with the best schools in New York. I’m confident that this success is only the tip of the iceberg.
Below, please find a list of commonly asked questions that may help you prepare for opening day on Wednesday, September 7th:
What is my student’s schedule?
Students who would like to participate in the breakfast program can enter through the main entrance beginning at 7:20 and proceed directly to the cafeteria. For everyone else, main entrance doors open at 7:40 and the school day begins at 7:45 a.m. The school day ends at 2:30, though students may stay after for extra help until 3:15 .
Your student’s class schedule is enclosed. If you have a question about the schedule, please call the main office at 289-3966 to schedule an appointment. Mrs. Ryan will be available on August 16, 17, 23, and 24. Please note that all schedule changes must be completed by the first day of school. No student changes will be accepted after that point. Lunch times are not listed on the schedule and will be explained to students on opening day.
When can my student access his or her locker?
Locker assignments are listed on the schedule. “Locker Day” will be on August 17th from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. On this day, students may “move in” to their lockers. Students may not bring their own locks—only school locks will be used. Freshmen and Sophomores may rent locks for $4.00. Junior and Senior lockers have built in locks. Combinations for these lockers are on the enclosed schedule.
What supplies will my student need?
The high school supply list is located on our website, www.redjacket.org, under Schools>RJ High School.
How can I keep track of my student’s grades?
The Parent Portal of our student information system offers a live view into teachers’ grade books via the internet. If you have not yet done so, signing up for the Parent Portal could not be easier. By contacting the main office, you can enroll in the program. We encourage you to invite your child to use this tool to monitor his or her own progress. You can find out more information about signing up for the Parent Portal here.
What is the school’s policy about electronic devices?
Students are not permitted to use radios, iPods, MP3 players, electronic games, cell phones, or laser pens in school unless required by a teacher. These items are brought to school at their owner’s risk, as the district will not investigate if these items are lost or stolen. If these items are found in use during the school day, they will be confiscated and disciplinary action will result. Phones and iPods will be returned only to a parent or guardian during office hours (7:30-4:00).
Does the school have a dress code?
Yes. Our current dress code was written with help from students, parents, staff and community and requires students to wear safe and appropriate clothing to school. Clothing with vulgar or suggestive slogans will not be tolerated, nor will articles that promote violence, alcohol use or drug use. Revealing clothing is also prohibited. You can find the complete guidelines in the “Files and Documents” section on www.redjacket.org. We invite you and your students to err on the side of caution when choosing clothing.
I hope that you all have a relaxing remainder of the summer. Please feel free to call or email me with any questions.
Sincerely,
James A. Niedermeier
Red Jacket High School Principal
niedermeierj@redjacket.org