Yes, I received the elementary student conduct book in the mail and I’ve started taking notes -they are many inconsistencies like notifying police for theft but not real guns (Don’t you think it is a bit harsh to call police on an elementary student/child under 11 years of age for picking up something that is not theirs -how about a little guidance instead? Why would RPS start a criminal file on a child?). I would be more concerned about the gun than theft.

Also for some offenses principals are given leeway to use anything from parent conferences to full on school expulsion for what could be a minor infraction like stating empty threats much like Wilder and RPS staff have done on numerous occasions and suffered no consequences for them. A large range of consequences for an infraction with no guidelines is dangerous in the hands of an inept and/or bully principal. If a principal or teacher has it out for your kid, they can simply use the handbook to toss out your child. Is it appropriate to use a Zero Tolerance Policy with a child? What happened to patience? What happened to learning from your mistakes? Don’t all children make mistakes? Should they be ruined by them?

Also, on page 6 of the Elementary student conduct book there is a list of offenses including the word Rape mentioned four times. How should I explain rape to my 7 year old?

This RPS Standards of Student Conduct for Elementary Students is not age appropriate and is harsh and scary -makes me want to take my child out of RPS, especially after reading the conduct book from my oldest’s private middle school. The one from the private school inspires the child to do well and it takes a healthy approach with a school honor code that starts with the community of “students, faculty, and parents” and “integrity, trust, and respect.” I will share it in full at a later time.

Kimberly Bridges,
I would like to meet with you and other SB members to discuss these issues regarding the RPS student code of conduct book.