RHS_Senior_StudentHandbook.SY19-20

Senior Handbook 

Class of 2020 

Justin Ralston, Principal 

1

Table of Contents 

Welcome Letters 4- 7 

Leadership Team, Motto, and Mission 8-11 

Grade 12, Class of 2020 Information 

• Senior Events 

• Senior Fees 

12 

13-14 

15- 16 

RHS Bell Schedules 17-18 

Assessment Calendar 19-20 

Graduation Requirements 20-23 

Section I: Student Responsibilities 

• Scholar Accountably 

24 

• Textbook and Supply Loans 

24 

• Cheating and Plagiarism 

24-25 

• Disciplinary Policy & Student Accountability 

25-26 

• SCAR Team (Student Character & Refinement Team) 

26 

• Behavior Ladder 

27 

• DC- CAP 

27 

• Athletics 

27-28 

• Clubs 

28 

• Student Lockers 

29 

Section II: Attendance and Absences 29-36 

Section III –Technology Use 

• DCPS Student Safety Use and Policy for Internet and Technology 

• Cellphones and Electronics 

37-39 

39 

2

Section IV –School Rules and Policies 

• Dress and Appropriate Attire 

• Grading 

• Instructional Practices 

• Assemblies & Special Events 

• Translation Services 

Section V –Building Security and Safety 

• School Emergencies or Accidental Events 

• Emergency Procedures: Fire Drills, Bomb Threats and Evacuation Plans 

• Visitor Policy 

• Surveillance & Safekeeping 

• Smoking on DCPS Property 

Section VI –Senior Standards and Expectations 

• Decision-Making 

• Senior Standards and Expectations 

• Participation Standards 

Glossary 50 

Appendix: Planning for College 

• How to Choose a College 

• College Comparison 

• What do colleges look for when selecting students? 

• SAT 

• ACT 

• Task List 

• DOES Office of Apprenticeships 

40-42 

42-43 

43-45 

45 

45 

46 

46 

47 

47 

47 

48 

49-46 

46-50 

51 

52-57 

58 

61 

62 

63 

64 

65-68 

3

Dear Rough Rider Families, 

We are excited to be welcoming you and your scholars to Roosevelt High School for the 2019-2020 

school year! Our motto for the upcoming school year is “Harambee—Together for Roosevelt.” Our focus 

is going to be on developing a sense of community in all aspects of our school. We have incredible 

students, families, staff, alumni, and community—the strength of our school can be maximized when we 

truly work together to achieve the best learning outcomes for our students. 

As part of our “Harambee—Together for Roosevelt” focus this year, we will have a 6 Academies: 1 School 

focus. We have rich programing at Roosevelt HS that we want to continue to develop—Global Studies, 

Dual Language, 4 foreign language course offerings, International Academy, Special Education 

Programs, and a Community School Model are just a few examples of what we have to offer. All students 

will be part of this learning community called an “academy” with similar teachers and support staff to help 

ensure that we get to know the uniqueness of each of our scholars. Additionally, we are excited to be 

launching an enrichment program for our 9 th and 10 th grade English classes that will help accelerate 

student learning through several researched-based programs. We will also be launching a partnership 

with the Flamboyan Foundation with our 9 th graders to help us build strong relationships with all of our 

newly arriving students and families. We are also continuing to develop our Advanced Placement course 

offerings our students in upper grades. Roosevelt had the largest gains in AP scores from ALL schools in 

DCPS this past year! 

In an effort to continue to focus on learning and a positive school environment for every student, we will 

continue to have our cell phone lockers placed at the entrance of the school. Students are not permitted 

to have cell phones during the school day. Additionally, we are moving towards a dress code policy this 

year rather than a uniform policy. The policy is attached. 

We would like to invite you, your family, and scholar to our BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT on Thursday, 

August 22 from 5 – 7 PM at Roosevelt HS. You will have the opportunity to meet teachers, staff, and 

administration, hear an overview of our school’s focus for this school year, learn about our community 

partners and extra-curricular activities, as well as walk the halls of the school so that students can know 

what their first day of school will look like before walking in the doors on Monday, August 26 for the first 

day of school. 

We look forward to a great school year. We are striving to be the model neighborhood high school of 

choice for our students and families. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to 

Roosevelt HS at 202-576-6130. We look forward to welcoming all students back for the first day of school 

on Monday, August 26 from 8:45 – 3:15 PM. Doors open daily for students at 8:05 AM. 

Respectfully, 

Justin Ralston 

Principal 

4

Estimadas Familias, 

¡Estamos emocionados de darle la bienvenida a usted y a sus alumnos a Roosevelt High 

School para el año escolar 2019-2020! Nuestro lema para el próximo año escolar es 

"Harambee — Juntos para Roosevelt". Nuestro enfoque será desarrollar un sentido de 

comunidad en todos los aspectos de nuestra escuela. Tenemos una comunidad increíble de 

estudiantes, familias, personaje, y ex alumnus – el poder de nuestra escuela se puede 

maximizar cuando realmente trabajamos juntos para lograr resultados que sirven nuestros 

estudiantes. 

Como parte de nuestro enfoque este año "Harambee — Juntos para Roosevelt," tenemos (6) 

Academias y (1) enfoque escolar. Tenemos excelente programas en Roosevelt que queremos seguir 

desarrollando, por ejemplo: estudios globales, multi-lenguaje, (4) cursos de idiomas extranjeros, 

academia internacional, programas de educación especial y un modelo de escuela comunitaria. Todos 

los estudiantes serán parte de estas comunidades con maestros y personal de apoyo similares para 

ayudar a garantizar que reconocemos la singularidad de cada uno de nuestros estudiantes. Además, 

estamos encantados de iniciar un programa de enriquecimiento para nuestras clases de inglés de 

noveno y décimo grado que ayudará a acelerar el aprendizaje de los estudiantes a través de varios 

programas basados en investigaciones. 

También vamos a iniciar una asociación con la Fundación Flamboyan con nuestros alumnos de noveno 

grado para ayudarnos a construir relaciones sólidas con todos nuestros estudiantes y familias recién 

llegadas. Ademas, continuamos desarrollando nuestras ofertas de cursos de Colocación Avanzada para 

nuestros estudiantes¡ Roosevelt tuvo las mayores ganancias en puntajes AP de TODAS las escuelas en 

DCPS el año pasado! 

Para continuar enfocándonos en el aprendizaje y un ambiente escolar positivo para cada estudiante, 

continuaremos colocando nuestros casilleros para teléfonos celulares en la entrada de la escuela. Los 

estudiantes no tienen permiso tener teléfonos celulares durante el día escolar. Además, estamos 

avanzando hacia una política de uniforme este año escolar. La política está adjunta. 

Nos gustaría invitarlos a nuestra NOCHE DE REGRESO A LA ESCUELA el jueves 22 de Agosto a las 5 

a 7 PM en Roosevelt HS. Tendrá la oportunidad de conocer a los maestros, el personal y la 

administración; escuchar el enfoque general de nuestra escuela para este año escolar, aprender 

nuestros proyectos comunitarios y actividades extracurriculares. 

Esperamos un gran año escolar. Estamos orgullos ser la escuela secundaria de modelo preferida por 

nuestros estudiantes y familias. Si tiene alguna pregunta o inquietud, comuníquese con Roosevelt HS al 

(202) 576-6130. Esperamos darles la bienvenida a todos los estudiantes para el primer día de clases el 

lunes 26 de agosto de 8:45 a 3:15 p.m. Las puertas se abren diariamente para los estudiantes a las 8:05 

a.m. 

Respectfully, 

Justin Ralston 

Principal 

5

Welcome Back Class of 2020! 

As we begin SY19-20, I want to take this opportunity to welcome everyone back to another 

fantastic year at Theodore Roosevelt High School. I am excited to see how your teachers will 

challenge you academically and expose you to experiences many only dreams. Class of 2020 there 

are endless opportunities in your reach “With A Vision” This is your year of closing one chapter 

and starting another. In the words of Kalpana Chawla “The path from dreams to success does exist. 

May you have the vision to find it, the courage to get on to it, and the perseverance to follow it.” 

I am equally excited to work alongside Ms. S. Jackson our 11 th /12 th Grade Counselor, and the Class 

of 2020 Sponsors; Mr. Butler, Mrs. Cook, Mr. Juarez, Mrs. Rodriguez and Mrs. Woodard. Seniors 

this is your last year in high school so be a part of as many activities, fundraisers, and events as 

possible to make your last year in high school a memorable one. Seniors, please sign up for 

Remind. Text @482bch to 81010. This form of communication will give you “need to know” 

updates for all senior-related activities, including but not limited to; 2020 Prom, and Graduation. 

Roosevelt High School staff is eager to help you move closer to your vision as you choose your 

pathway. Be sure to schedule your meeting with Ms. S. Jackson (11 th /12 th Grade Counselor), Mrs. 

Anderson (Pathways Coordinator), Mrs. Lincoln (College and Career Coordinator) and Mr. Hailu 

(DCCAPP) to get information about your graduation status, credit recovery, and College/Career 

path. 

Class of 2020 Parents, I hope that you will join me and the Roosevelt Team in setting the bar high 

from the first day of school until graduation day. I encourage all parents to be involved, ask 

questions, meet with your team, and be that listening ear for your child throughout the school year. 

The Class of 2020 Parent Meeting kickoff will be held on September 26, 2019, at 5:00 PM. 

Challenge your child to rise to the occasion to their destiny! With your support and communication, 

this can and will be achieved. This Senior handbook will assist you and your child to organize 

their plans for their future. 

Again, welcome and I look forward to you representing Roosevelt in the best way a Rough Rider 

can “Never Given, Always Earned!” 

Best, 

Ms. Tawana Alston 

11 th /12 th Assistant Principal 

6

Dear Rough Riders Students and Families, 

It is with great pleasure that I welcome you and your family to the 2019-2020 school 

year at Roosevelt High School! While we have been eagerly preparing for the opening 

of school on Monday August 20, 2019, we hope that your summer has been restful and 

enjoyable. 

Student success is a top priority at Roosevelt High School and we are working closely 

with the faculty to ensure an exciting and fulfilling year of learning and achievement. 

We are invested in your student learning their course content and learning English. 

Our primary responsibility is student learning and offering all students the educational 

opportunities that will maximize their potential. This responsibility is supported in our 

school’s draft mission statement: 

“Theodore Roosevelt High School values all students’ unique talents and 

encourages and challenges students to become intellectually curious, 

world language proficient, internationally aware, and globally 

responsive.” 

Today’s world demands students who think critically. We do this by challenging them in 

their learning experiences as they work to achieve their dreams. This includes a unique 

combination of rigorous academic standards and achievement in an inviting school 

culture. 

We are looking forward to working with you and your student again this year! If you ever 

have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at 202-576-6130 or send 

me an email at simone.wilkinson@dc.gov. 

Sincerely, 

Simone Portera Wilkinson 

Assistant Principal 

International Academy at Roosevelt HS 

7

Leadership Team 

• Mr. Justin Ralston Principal 

• Mr. Cory Carter Assistant Principal, 9 th Grade Academy 

• Mr. Darryl Powell Assistant Principal, 10 th Grade 

• Ms. Tawana Alston Assistant Principal, 11 th / 12 th Grade 

• Mrs. Simone P. Wilkinson Assistant Principal International Academy 

• Mr. Edwin Velasquez Manager of Strategy and Logistics 

• Ms. Devon Wade Director of SPED 

• Mr. James Taylor III Culture and Climate 

• Mr. Reginald Stevens Athletic Director 

8

Motto 

“Harambee- Together for Roosevelt” 

School Colors 

Orange and Blue 

Mascot 

Mascot Name 

“Rough Riders” 

9

Values 

10

Mission 

Theodore Roosevelt High School values all students’ unique talents and 

encourages and challenges students to become intellectually curious, world 

language proficient, internationally aware, and globally responsive. 

Vision 

Theodore Roosevelt High School for Global Studies engages students in an 

educational experience that fosters international understanding and welcomes 

diversity of thought, while preparing students for a globally interconnected 

world. 

Global Studies Vision 

Students of Theodore Roosevelt High School will strengthen their thinking abilities 

by building on their experiences and knowledge through rigorous data- driven 

instruction. As a result, students will progress from emergent to fluent readers and 

writers to become critical thinkers, global citizens and lifelong learners. 

Theodore Roosevelt Staff will meet our goals by providing: 

• A print-rich environment. 

• Modeling of proficient reading, writing, speaking and listening. 

• Opportunities for daily practice; independent, directed and collaborative. 

• An environment that encourages instructional risk-taking and recognizes 

achievements. 

• Experiences with a variety of literature that reflects our diverse and 

multicultural society. 

• Opportunities to publish, share and respond to writing. 

• Access to technology to enhance communication. 

• Differentiated instruction. 

Philosophy 

It is the administration, staff and parents goal to encourage students to exercise 

self-discipline. Students share the responsibility for creating an atmosphere that is 

conducive to learning. 

This is demonstrated by practicing our six Rough Rider values: 

RESPECT, INTEGRITY, DETERMINATION, EMPOWERMENT, 

RESPONSIBILITY, SUCCESS or R.I.D.E.R.S. 

11

Class of 2020 Information 

Class Dean: 

James Taylor III 

Class Sponsors: 

Naliah Cook 

Simone Harris- Woodard 

Cesar Juarez 

Sonia Rodriguez- Leon 

Class Theme: 

“WITH A VISION” 

School Counselors: 

Shantius Jackson 

Allison Fulghum 

Pathways Coordinator: 

Shemia Anderson 

College and Career Coordinator: 

Lori Lincoln 

DCCAP Advisor: 

Thomas Hailu 

Social Workers: 

Naliah Cook 

Erica Cartledge 

Intervention Coaches: 

Naliah Cook 

Maurice Butler 

12

Senior Events 

Senior Pictures 

Mark your calendars! Senior pictures will be held at Roosevelt HS on: 

Tuesday, September 3, 2019 

Friday, September 6, 2019 

Senior Make-Up: Monday, November 4, 2019 

For senior pictures, packages visit Lifetouch Senior Portraits website at 

https://lifetouch.com/senior-portraits/. Please bring all outfits and accessories 

needed for your poses. Don’t forget to bring that wonderful smile ☺ 

Mandatory Class of 2020 Meeting 

Mandatory Class of 2020 “Parent Meeting” will be held on September 10 th at 

5:30pm in the Media Center. 

Special Edition Senior Shirt 

Class on 2020 will have the option to customize their senior shirt. More 

information to come. 

Senior Inauguraton (Mandatory) 

An inauguration is the induction into the senior class by a formal celebration. 

The senior event will be held on September 26, 2019 from 5:00 pm —7:00 pm. It 

honors those who have achieved all the requirements to be certified as a senior. 

To participate in this event, students must wear ALL BLACK and accent with 

Roosevelt HS colors. Athletic attire (tennis shoes, sweat pants, muscle shirts, tank 

tops, etc.) is prohibited. 

Senior Class Fundraiser 

Class of 2020 will conduct a minimum of 4 fundraisers throughout the school year 

to support the needs of Senior Class. Please don’t miss out! 

Senior Brunch 

Senior brunch will be held Spring of 2020. The cost will be $10 in advance. Tickets 

at the door will be $15.00. 

13

Prom 

The Prom is a formal social event that serves as a culminating gala for seniors to 

celebrate the final days of high school. Since it is formal, young men must wear 

Tuxedos or Formal Cultural attire, and young ladies must wear appropriate afterfive 

dresses or Formal Cultural attire. In other words, keep it classy; this is a school 

event. It is expected that young ladies keep in mind that you should always 

dress for respect, and not for attention. 

Any Non-Theodore Roosevelt High School Student escorting a Theodore 

Roosevelt student to the Prom MUST be age 21 and under. In addition, the 

guest must complete the prom consent form and have it approved by 

Roosevelt’s Administrators in order to participate. Administration has the right to 

deny any guest consent form. 

Any Theodore Roosevelt High School Student escorting or accompanying a 

Theodore Roosevelt student to the Prom must get permission from their 

perspective Administrator by completing a guest consent form. 

Everyone one planning to attend Theodore Roosevelt Prom will need to 

purchase a ticket. Tickets are sold per person. 

Awards Program (Mandatory) 

The awards program will be held in the Spring to recognize senior achievement. At 

ceremony, the proper dress is after five. Casual and athletic wear are prohibited. We 

look forward to celebrating this moment with you and your families. 

Graduation 

For your big day the dress attire is formal. Young ladies appropriate nonrevealing 

dresses are acceptable, and shoes. For young men, a nice pair of 

slacks and shoes are appropriate. A black suit is optional for young men as well. 

Athletic attire (tennis shoes, sweat pants, muscle shirts, tank tops, etc.) is 

prohibited. 

Class of 2020 

Sign up for Remind! Text @482bch to 81010. This form of communication will give 

you “need to know” updates for all senior-related activities, including but not 

limited to; 2020 Prom, and Graduation. 

14

Senior Fees 

The Graduate 

The Graduate Package includes: 

Cap, gown, tassel, stole, announcements, diploma covers. 

*Please note: Class of 2020 Senior Trip is a separate cost from Senior Fees 

** RHS homeless liaisons are Mr. Butler and Mrs. Cook. 

Cost Per Student 

$85 

The Salutatorian 

The Salutatorian package includes: 

Cap, gown, tassel, stole, announcements, diploma cover, yearbook, and 

alumni jacket. 



$175 

The Valedictorian 

The Valedictorian package includes: 

Cap, gown, tassel, stole, announcements, diploma cover, yearbook, alumni 

jacket, special edition senior shirt, and ONE prom ticket. 



$300 

A La Carte [Optional items] 

Class of 2020 Senior Prom: 

This includes: Venue rental, DJ, security, decorations, prom favors, ONE prom 

ticket. 

*Please note: The prom ticket is only included in the Valedictorian package. 

Each person needs to purchase a prom ticket, including your prom date. 

Class of 2020 Yearbook 

Class of 2020 Alumni Jacket/Hoodie 

Class of 2020 Special Edition Senior Shirt 

$100 

$60 

$35 

$25 

15

Class of 2020 Senior Dues Plans 

• Cash or Money orders ONLY! 

• Money Orders made out to Theodore Roosevelt High School 

• Senior dues are NON- REFUNDABLE 

The Graduate Package $85.00 

Payment Plan Dates 

1st Payment- September 20, 2019 $21.25 

2nd Payment- November 18, 2019 $21.25 

3rd Payment- January 17, 2020 $21.25 

Final Payment- March 20, 2020 $21.25 

The Salutation Package $175.00 






The Valedictorian Package $300.00 






16

RHS Bell Schedule | SY 2018 – 2019 

Traditional Bell Schedule 

9/10 

Block 1 8:45 -10:08 83 min 

Block 2 10:12 - 11:35 83 min 

Lunch 11:35-12:20 45 min 

Block 3 12:25 - 1:48 83 min 

Block 4 1:52 - 3:15 83 min 

11/12 

Block 1 8:45 -10:08 83 min 

Block 2 10:12 - 11:35 83 min 

Block 3 11:39 - 1:02 83 min 

Lunch 1:02 - 1:47 45 min 

Block 4 1:52 - 3:15 83 min 

Activity Schedule 

9/10 

Block 1 8:45 - 9:50 65 min 

Block 2 9:54 - 10:59 65 min 

Lunch 11:03-11:48 45 min 

Block 3 11:52-12:57 65 min 

Block 4 1:01-2:06 65 min 

Transition 2:06-2:15 9 min 

Activity 2:15-3:15 60 min 

11/12 

Block 1 8:45 - 9:50 65 min 

Block 2 9:54 - 10:59 65 min 

Block 3 11:03-12:08 65 min 

Lunch 12:12-12:57 45 min 

Block 4 1:01-2:06 65 min 

Transition 2:06-2:15 9 min 

Activity 2:15-3:15 60 min 

17

RHS Bell Schedule | SY 2018 – 2019 

Early Dismissal (Half-Day Schedule) 

9/10 

Block 1 8:45 – 9:30 45 min 

Block 2 9:34 – 10:19 45 min 

Lunch 10:23 – 11:08 45 min 

Block 3 11:12 – 11:57 45 min 

Block 4 12:00 – 12:30 30 min 

2 -Hour Delayed Opening (Late Arrival) 

Block 1 10:45 – 11:39 54 min 

Block 2 11:42 – 12:36 54 min 

Lunch 12:36-1:21 45 min 

Block 3 1:24-2:18 54 min 

Block 4 2:21-3:15 54 min 

9/10 

11/12 

Block 1 10:45 – 11:39 54 min 

Block 2 11:42 – 12:36 54 min 

Block 3 12:39 – 1:33 45 min 

Lunch 1:33 - 2:18 45 min 

Block 4 2:21 – 3:15 54 min 

**A full school day consists of 390 minutes; 2-hour delay a total of 270 minutes; 

and a half-day 210 minutes.** 

18

RHS Assessment Calendar, School Year 2019 – 2020 

***= Subject to Change 

Senior Graduation Date: TBD 

Science Math ELA Social Studies AP Classes Inter-Disciplinary 

Date(s) Subjects(s) Exam 

8/28-8/31 Alg. 1, Geo. MAP BoY 

8/27-9/6 ALL Social Studies TAS BOY 

8/26-8/30 Ap Classes AP Diagnostics 

9/3-9/6 Pre-Alg., Alg. II MAP BoY 

9/3-6 Biology Bio MAP BOY 

9/2-13 ALL Science TAS BOY 

9/23-9/27 AP Classes Mini-Assessment 

9/16-9/27 ALL Social Studies End of Unit Assessment 

10/8-11 Biology End of Unit Assessment 


10/29-11/01 Ap Classes Term 1 Assessment 

10/29-11/01 Alg.I & II , Geo. AFFIRM, End of Module 

11/5-8 Bio, Chem, Phys, Env Sci, A&P End of Unit Assessment 

11/12-1115 Ap Classes Mini-Assessment 


12/10-13 Anatomy & Phys End of Unit Assessment 


1/06-1/10 AP Classes Full Practice AP Test (Term 2 Assessment) 

1/7-1/10 Alg I & II , Geo. AFFIRM, End of Module 


1/28-31 Biology Bio MAP MOY 

1/28-1/31 Sp.Ed.& IA Math MAP MoY/ Progress Monitoring 


2/10-2/14 AP Classes Mini-Assessment 

2/24-3/27 ACCESS for ELLs Window 9-12 ELL Students 


3/10-13 Phys, Env Sci, A&P End of Unit Assessment 

3/16-3/19 Alg. 1 & Geo. AFFIRM, End of Module 

3/16-5/1 MSAA/DLM Window 11 & C3 Students only 

3/23-3/27 AP Classes Term 3 Assessment 

19


4/5- 4/8 Alg. II AFFIRM, EoM 

4/06-4/10 AP Classes Full Practice AP Test 


4/20-5/22 PARCC Window ELA I & II, Alg I, Geo, Bio 

5/4-6/12 Health Assess Window St enrolled in Health 

5/04-5/10 AP Classes AP TEST 


5/19-22 Biology End of Unit Assessment 

6/2-5 Biology Bio MAP EOY 



Graduation Requirements 

Subject 

Credits 

Required 

Notes 

English 4.0 Must include English I, II, III, IV (or their equivalents) 

Mathematics 4.0 Must include Algebra 1 (must enroll in Algebra 1 in 

or before 9th grade), Geometry, and Algebra 2 at a 

minimum 

Science 4.0 Must include three lab sciences 

Social Studies 4.0 Must include World History 1 and 2, U.S. History, U.S. 

Government, and D.C. History 

World Languages 2.0 Must include 2 credits of the same world language 

Art 0.5 

Music 0.5 

20

Career and Technical 

Education and/or 

College-level Courses 

Physical Education/ 

Health 

2.0 The Career and Technical Education (CTE) and 

college-level course requirement shall be met by 

identified AP, IB, HiSCIP, and CTE courses as well as 

courses taken at accredited colleges. 

1.5 

Electives 1.5 

Total 24 

Credits* 

Students must also earn 100 hours of volunteer community service to graduate. All 

community service hours must be verified by a nonprofit organization with a valid 

501(c)3. 

*Please note that 24 credits are the minimum number of credits required by DC 

Public Schools for a student to graduate. 

Carnegie Units and Graduation Requirements 

The Carnegie Unit is awarded upon successful completion of a course. One (1) 

Carnegie Unit is equivalent to 120 – 150 hours of instruction earned over a period of 36 

weeks in the District of Columbia Public Schools. 

Subject Grade 9 

Seal of 

Biliteracy Pathway 

*One content course in 

WL 

English 

(4.0 req) 

English I 

Honors English I 

Seal of Global 

Comp Pathway 

Plus 

Public Speaking (.5) 

Grade 10 

Seal of Biliteracy Pathway 

*One content course in WL 

English II 

Honors English II 

Grade 11 

Seal of 



WL 

English III 

AP English Lit & 

Composition 

Grade 12 

Seal of 



WL 

English IV 

Honors English IV 

AP English Lit & 

Composition 

Math 

(4.0 req) 

Must include: 

Algebra I 

Geometry 

Algebra II 

Upper Level 

Math 

Algebra I 

Honors Algebra I 

Geometry 

Honors Geometry 

Algebra II 

Honors Algebra II 

Pre-Calculus 

Pre-Calculus 

AP Calculus 

Probability & Statistic 

21

Science 

(4.0 req) 

Must include: 

Biology 

2 lab sciences 

1 other 

science 

Biology I 

Honors Biology I 

Concepts of Physical 

Science 

Environmental Science 

Chemistry I 

Honors Chemistry I 

Forensic Science 

Honors Environmental 

Science 

Robotics 

Physics I 

Honors Physics I 

Anatomy & Physiology 

Chemistry I 


Science 

Physics I 



Science 

AP Environmental 

Science 

Social 

Studies 

(4.0 req) 

Must Include: 

World History I 

World History 

II 

DC History 

US 

Government 

US History 

World History & 

Geography I 


Comp Pathway 

Plus 

Global Perspectives (.5) 

Plus (select 2) 

Asian Studies (.5) 

Latin American Studies 

(.5) 

Middle Eastern Studies 

(.5) 

African Studies (.5) 

World History & Geography II 

AP World History 


Comp Pathway 

Plus 

Model UN & International 

Diplomacy (.5) 

World 

Problems/Contemporary 

Issues(.5) 

US History & Geography 

AP US History 

AP Psychology (.5) 


Comp Pathway 

Plus 

Comparative Religion 

(.5.) 

AP Comparative 

Government (.5) 

US Government (.5) & 

DC History (.5) 

AP US Government (.5) 

AP Psychology (.5) 

Global Perspectives (.5) 

African Studies (.5) 

Asian Studies (.5) 

Latin American Studies 

(.5) 

Middle Eastern Studies 

(.5) 


Comp Pathway 

Plus 

AP Human Geography 

World 

Languages 

(2.0 req) 

Options: 

French 

Spanish 

Mandarin 

Chinese 

Level I 

Level 2 

(new language for adv. (new language for adv. 

proficient) 

proficient) 

-OR- 

-OR- 

Seal of 

Seal of Biliteracy Pathway 

Biliteracy Pathway Level 3 

Level 2 

Level 3 

(new language for adv. 

proficient) 

-OR- 

Seal of 


Level 4 

& 

New Language Level 1 

Level 4 

(new language for adv. 

proficient) 

-OR- 

Seal of 


AP 

& 

New Language Level 2 

Art & Music 

(0.5 req for 

each) 

Health/PE 

(1.5 req) 

Art & Design 

Foundations (.5) 

Art History I (.5) 

Band I (.5) 

Concert Band I (.5) 

Cultural Studies (.5) 

General Music (.5) 

Survey of World Art (.5) 

Global Music 

Global Art 

Global Fitness (.5) 

Global Sports (.5) 

Health Education (.5) 

AP Studio Art/Drawing (.5) 

Art & Design Foundations (.5) 

Art History 1 (.5) 





Global Music 

Global Art 



Health Education (.5) 

AP Studio Art/Drawing 

(.5) 

Art & Design 







Global Music 

Global Art 



AP Studio Art/Drawing 

(.5) 

Art & Design 







Global Music 

Global Art 



22

Additional 

Pathway Work 

JROTC Pathway 

Army JROTC I 

BUILD Pathway 

BUILD: Entrepreneurship 

EMS CTE Pathway 

Health Career 

Exploration 


Comp Pathway 

Advisory (.5) 

Business Mgmt & Admin CTE 

Pathway 

Intro to Business I (.5) 

Entrepreneurship (.5) 

Culinary CTE Pathway 

Culinary I 

JROTC Pathway 

Army JROTC II 

BUILD Pathway 

BUILD Afterschool Program 




Comp Pathway 

Advisory (.5) 

Internship (.5) 

Business Mgmt & Admin 

CTE Pathway 

Microsoft Office 


Culinary II 

JROTC Pathway 

Army JROTC III 

BUILD Pathway 

BUILD Afterschool 

Program 


EMS 


Comp Pathway 

Senior Seminar (.5) 

Internship (.5) 

Business Mgmt & Admin 

CTE Pathway 

Business 

Communications 


Culinary III 

JROTC Pathway 

Army JROTC IV 

BUILD Pathway 

BUILD Afterschool 

Program 


Clinical EMS 

23

Section I –Student Responsibilities 

Scholar Accountability 

• Scholars should not be allowed to leave any classroom unless for an emergency. 

If a student forgets his/her materials for class or needs to talk to another teacher, 

it is not considered an emergency. Advise students to make arrangements with 

other instructions prior to coming to class. 

• When granting permission to leave the classroom, all instructors should provide 

students with a color-coded hall or health suite pass; students without a pass 

should be prohibited from entering or exiting the classroom, which ensures that 

students are accountable and safe during the school day. 

• Any visitor throughout the building, including parents who wish to visit classrooms 

without an appointment, should be redirected to the main office. All schedule 

changes for students can only be made after the approval and/or clearance 

from administration. No classes will be changed after the 5th day of a new 

semester. A student must be registered for eight (8) subjects each semester or 

have permission from the principal to do otherwise. Please visit 

www.theodorerooseveltdc.org; guidance counselor’s page to find more 

information on scheduling. 

• Students are not allowed to be in any classrooms before 8:40am or after 3:15pm 

without a pass from receiving teacher/staff member. 

• Students are not allowed in the teacher workroom, mailroom or copier room. 

• Food and drinks are prohibited outside of the cafeteria unless for the following 

reasons: medical requirement, mandated IEP accommodation or other reasons 

pre-approved by administration. 

• Students should not be given school keys or FOBs to gain access to any part of 

the building. 

Textbook & Supply Loan 

Textbooks are loaned to students for use during the school year. Teachers will issue book 

slips to be completed and signed, in ink, by both students and parents. The name of the 

student and his/her classification must be written on the bookplate as soon as the book 

is received. 

Textbooks will be issued only when the student has cleared prior obligations and 

presents a signed slip for each book. Parents are responsible for paying for any book 

that is lost or severely damaged. 

Cheating & Plagiarism 

Cheating is a direct infraction according to the expectations of Theodore Roosevelt 

High School Code of Conduct Policy and the DCMR, chapter 25. Any student caught in 

the act of cheating or other forms of academic dishonesty will face possible suspension 

and or immediate removal from the RHS program. 

24

Plagiarism is copying or imitating the language, ideas or thoughts of another person 

and passing them off as one's original work. Plagiarism and all other forms of cheating 

will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Students should never pass someone 

else's findings off as their own, when writing down someone’s exact words, you must 

cite the source according to the format determined by the instructor (i.e. APA Style 

Citation, MLA Citation, etc.); when you borrow someone's ideas, identify the author or 

artist. 

Borrowing without acknowledgment is plagiarism. Plagiarism is stealing. It is dishonest. It 

is also intellectually lazy. Teachers should review this policy with students: 

1st Offense – Verbal Warning 

2nd Offense – Tier 2 intervention or consequence: Take “How to Recognize Plagiarism” 

basic level tutorial: 

https://www.indiana.edu/~academy/firstPrinciples/tutorials/index.html 

3rd Offense – Tier 3 intervention or consequence 

Disciplinary Policy & Student Accountability 

It is the policy of DCPS as defined in “Chapter 25” (http://dcps.dc.gov/chapter25) that 

a safe environment conducive to learning is maintained to provide equal and 

appropriate educational opportunities for all students. Only Tier 3 referrals or higher 

should be reported immediately to administrators, Tier 1 and 2 behaviors must be 

managed in the classroom unless behaviors are continuous and persistent. Major 

disruptions to the classroom environment and learning are viewed as a serious, 

behavioral offenses and instructors should contact the respective grade-level dean of 

students immediately for support. RHS will apply a fair and consistent approach to 

student discipline, within the context of the student’s rights and responsibilities, and will 

remain in effect throughout school hours, on school premises, when transporting 

students on trips, and during any school-sponsored activity. For additional information 

regarding DCPS’ Student Accountability Policy, reference the full policy in the appendix 

section of this handbook. 

The below factors will be considered with applying disciplinary measures: 

• Nature of the infraction 

• Circumstances relating to the infraction (SEL) 

• Age of the student 

• Student's previous behavioral history 

• Injury occurred 

• Whether a weapon or controlled substance was involved 

• Probability of repeat violations 

• Safety of other students and staff 

• Educational needs of other students 

• Educational needs of the student to be disciplined 

• Extenuating circumstances 

• Harm inflicted upon the reputation of the RHS Community 

25

• Harm inflicted upon the wider community 

Disciplinary measures shall be aimed at remediation and rehabilitation to enable 

students to complete their instructional programs. Disciplinary options for intervention, 

remediation, and rehabilitation shall include, but are not limited to, the following 

measures: 

Tier 1&2 Infractions (Handled in Class by the Teacher) 

• Excessive student talking 

• Student not doing assignment 

• Horse-playing 

• Student not prepared for class 

• Student late for class (up to 5 minutes) 

• Chewing gum 

• Minor disruptive behaviors 

• Using the computer without permission 

• Inappropriate language (not directed at teacher) 

**ALL INFRACTIONS ARE NOT LISTED 

Tier 3-5 Suspension Warranted Infractions (Dean/ Administrator Involvement) 

• Documented pattern of continued Level 1 or Level 2 infractions as evidenced by 

documentation of steps taken by instructor. 

• Verbal, written or physical threat to a person 

• Engaging in behavior that demonstrates gang, neighborhood or crew affiliation 

• Leaving school without permission 

• Student leaves class without permission 

• Gambling 

• Slurs based on race, color, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability including 

derogatory sexual language 

• Forgery 

• Cheating 

• Bullying or using humiliating or intimidation language or behavior 

• Fighting (no weapons/no physical harm) 

**ALL INFRACTIONS ARE NOT LISTED 

DCPS has established a Student Discipline Policy designed to ensure the rights and 

responsibilities of all students. While grounds for disciplinary action are outlined in the 

DCPS policy, Roosevelt High School has the authority to transfer a student to his/her 

neighborhood school if the student is not meeting the expectations of the RHS 

community or fails to maintain eligibility for a DCPS special or city-wide program. 

Students must maintain a cumulative 2.5 GPA to remain a student athlete of RHS. The 

instructional superintendent of cluster 9 will receive all recommendations for dismissal of 

any student who does not meet the academic criteria to remain a student of Roosevelt 

SHS. 

SCAR Team (Student Character & Refinement Team) 

The SCAR Teams (Deans/ ISS) functions as a support system for all staff and students 

26

participating in the learning process. The fundamental purpose of the SCAR Team is 

to promote and sustain a positive and challenging learning community through 

discipline, character development, motivation and teaching students how to make 

wise day to day decisions. Our goal is to foster a socially transforming environment 

that inspires our children, empowers our teachers and encourages our parents to 

participate in the child’s learning process. 

The Dean’s office is not the first option for discipline. Teachers should hold 

students accountable for their actions before involving the Dean. Our Discipline Plan 

involves 3 fundamental components: to teach, to discipline and to inspire. 

• Teach – Dean’s will teach students the skills and habits necessary to succeed in a 

structured learning community 

• Discipline - Discipline will be used as a means to bring about change in the 

students philosophy and actions towards the learning community. 

• Inspire – Dean’s will consistently motivate students. Through motivation, students 

will develop positive habits and have a desire to participate and perform within 

and beyond the Roosevelt HS learning community. 

Behavior Ladder 

Each class will have a posted set of the school expectations and your classroom 

procedures. 

• Verbal/Non-Verbal Warning 

• Redirection (warning) 

• In Class Consequence 

• Teacher Conference 

• Send Referral (make parental contact) 

DC – CAP 

The DC College Access Program (DC-CAP) is an important and valuable resource 

made available to the students of DCPS and Roosevelt SHS. The program allows for 

students to gain further access to college scholarship and financial aid opportunities, 

along with assisting in test prep courses and sign-up. The DC-CAP office is only available 

to students before school, during their lunch, or after school. At no time should a 

student be in the DC-CAP office during class time unless they have signed up for a 

previously scheduled college presentation. Teachers should never send a student to the 

DC-CAP office for any reason during instructional time. 

Students who wish to access the DC-CAP office are required to follow these specific 

guidelines: 

• Sign up for an appointment during their lunch period. There will be a weekly 

appointment sign-in sheet in the front of the DC-CAP office. ONLY students with 

an appointment are permitted to be in the DC-CAP office at any point 

throughout the school day. 

• College presentations also require students to sign up prior to attending the 

session. Students who have not signed up will not be permitted to attend. 

27

• Once students have signed up to attend a college presentation or to visit the 

DC-CAP office, they will receive a pass. Students must have this pass on their 

person during their visit. 

Athletics 

The principal is ultimately responsible for the operation of the school, including all 

matters pertaining to the athletic program. The Director, Strategy & Logistics will work 

with the athletic director and coaches to develop and support a high- functioning 

program for student athletes that reflect the school’s mission, philosophy and DCPS 

policy. 

Student Eligibility 

Student athletes must maintain eligibility to participate in sports through academic 

performance and positive behavioral conduct. The athletic director will work with the 

counseling department to ensure all athletes meet eligibility requirement to participate 

in sports and will provide updated lists to coaches after each grading period. 

If a teacher feels that a student athlete should be deemed academically ineligible 

he/she should present that concern in writing to the athletic director as immediate as 

possible. 

The following behavior guidelines will apply to student athletes: 

• First Offense – 1 game suspension (student may practice but cannot participate 

in the next game) 

• Second Offense – multiple game suspension (r participate in games for the 

determined amount of games) student may not practice, attend 

• Third Offense – student is removed from the team. 

Student Dismissal for Athletic Events 

At the beginning of a sports season, the athletic director or coach will circulate a team 

roster and game schedule. Teachers should retain these lists for reference through the 

season. 

Each Monday, teachers will receive notification regarding student absences pertaining 

to athletic participation from Mr. Stevens. This information must come directly from the 

coach or athletic director. Students on school teams should be dismissed from class for 

posted games and only if they eligible to participate. Each student athlete must have a 

pre-signed pass to be dismissed from class. 

Clubs 

Clubs must provide a service to the school, student body or community. Membership 

must be open to the entire student body, except in the case of various honor societies. 

Club sponsors and advisors must submit, in writing, their request to be appointed advisor 

28

to the principal before the end of the school year. Club sponsors for specific 

organizations must go through approval by Mr. Stevens. New teachers may submit their 

request to sponsor a club after the school year has started. 

Student Lockers 

Lockers should be used for: 

• Storing books and other personal belongings necessary for educational growth 

• Storing coats, jackets, and other personal items 

• The Roosevelt staff is not responsible for personal property, loss or theft, therefore 

students should not: 

• Give their locker combination to another student 

• Share lockers with anyone else 

• Keep valuables in lockers. Students are strongly advised not to keep 

valuable items in their lockers. 

Additional Important locker information: 

• Students are permitted to check lockers before 1st period begins, before lunch 

and after school. 

• When students are tardy to school, they should not be in their lockers more than 

five minutes after the documented time on the hallway pass by the attendance 

counselor. 

• Locker usage is a privilege that can be revoked if the student fails to adhere to 

this policy. 

• During winter months, all jackets and coats must be place in lockers throughout 

the school day 

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES 

A. General Attendance Requirements 

All children who reach five (5) years of age on or before September 30th of the current 

school year are considered school-aged and must attend school on time every day 

until they meet high school 

graduation requirements or reach their 18th birthday. 

DC Code § 38-202(b)-(c) establishes the justification for requiring no further attendance 

for minors who graduate from high school and flexible school hours for students who 

reach 17 years of age and are gainfully employed. 

(b) Any minor who has satisfactorily completed the senior high school course of study 

prescribed by [DCPS] and has been granted a diploma that certifies his or her 

graduation from high school, or who holds a diploma or certificate of graduation from 

another course of study determined by [DCPS] to be at least equivalent to that 

29

equired by [DCPS] for graduation from the public senior high schools, shall be excused 

from further attendance at school. 

(c) Any minor who has reached the age of 17 years may be allowed flexible school 

hours by the head of the educational institution in which the minor is enrolled provided 

he or she is actually, lawfully, gainfully, and regularly employed, but in no case shall he 

or she be excused entirely from regular attendance or excused to the extent that his or 

her timely graduation would be jeopardized or prevented. 

B. School Expectations 

All schools shall implement a specific protocol for attendance monitoring and 

absenteeism, including a focus on prevention of unexcused absences and the use of 

academic and behavioral interventions to address the needs of students. School 

officials are responsible for taking attendance accurately every day in the student 

information system (SIS). 

A written note must be provided to the school by the student’s parent within five (5) 

school days after the student’s return to school in order for an absence to be excused. 

Upon receipt of appropriate documentation within this time period, schools must 

update absences as excused within 48 hours. 

C. Excused Absences 

The following absences may be classified as an excused absence: 

• Illness of the student (a doctor’s note is required for a student absent five or more 

days in a term 

• Illness of a child for parenting students (a doctor’s note is required for a student 

absent five or more days in a term); 

• Medical or dental appointments for the student; 

• Death in the student’s immediate family; 

• Exclusion by direction of the authorities of the District of Columbia, due to 

quarantine, contagious disease, infection, infestation, or other condition 

requiring separation from other students for medical or health reasons; 

• Necessity for a student to attend a judicial proceeding, or court-ordered activity, 

as a party to the action or under subpoena; 

• Observance of a religious holiday; 

• Absences to allow students to visit their parent who is in the military, immediately 

before, during, or after deployment; 

• College visits for students in 9 th - 12 th grades (up to three cumulative days); 

• School visits for students in K through 8 th grades (one day); 

• Absences of expectant or parenting students for a time period specified by their 

doctor and any accommodations mandated by law; 

• Take Our Daughters & Sons to Work Day; 

30

• Religious event or celebration outside of a religious holiday (up to five 

cumulative days); and 

• An emergency or other circumstance approved by DCPS. The following 

absences may also be excused without written documentation from the parent, 

as verified by the school: 

• Lawful out of school suspension or exclusion by school authorities; 

• Temporary closing of facilities or suspension of classes due to severe weather, 

official activities, holidays, malfunctioning equipment, unsafe or unsanitary 

conditions, or other condition(s) or emergency requiring a school closing or 

suspension of classes; 

• Failure of the District of Columbia to provide transportation in cases where the 

District of Columbia has a legal responsibility for the transportation of the student 

• An emergency or other circumstance approved by DCPS. 

If a student or parent anticipates an absence not covered by the excused 

absences listed above, they may submit a request for an excused absence due to a 

special circumstance to the school principal. The principal shall consult with his or 

her Instructional Superintendent before determining whether to grant the excused 

absence request. 

Any absence that does not meet the criteria of an excused absence or fails to 

satisfy the documentation requirement of an excused absence within the allowable 

timeframe will be classified as an unexcused absence. 

If a student is absent for a total of up to four (4) cumulative days in each grading 

period, a parent’s written excuse is sufficient for explaining the absence. Such 

absence will be excused if it falls under one of the excused absence reasons noted 

above. 

If a student is absent for five (5) or more cumulative days per term, further 

documentation is required beyond communication by the parent for the absence 

to be excused. Written explanation of the student’s absence must be submitted by 

a doctor or staff of a relevant agency, on official doctor’s office/agency letterhead 

and signed by a relevant official. Note: 

• Medical or dental absences must be submitted on official doctor/dentist office 

stationery or form; and 

• Student’s required presence at judicial proceedings must be documented by a 

document from the court stating the need for the student’s presence on all the 

relevant dates. 

• Funeral programs may be accepted as appropriate documentation. 

D. Absences Due to School-Sponsored Activities 

1. Athletics 

31

Students participating in DCPS-sponsored athletic events during regular school class 

hours are considered present. Students must adhere to all attendance requirements as 

dictated by state regulations. In order to participate in any athletic tryout, practice, 

game or match, a student must be present in school on the day of that event, unless 

the student has an excused absence. 17 

2. Other Activities 

Students participating in DCPS-sponsored events, field trips, or study abroad travel 

during the regular school day are considered present. 

3. IEP or 504 Plan Service Delivery 

Students who miss class to receive related services documented on their Individualized 

Education Programs (IEPs) or 504 plans are considered present. 

4. Suspensions 

Students shall be marked present while serving in-school suspension. Student absences 

due to out of school suspension shall be classified as excused. 

E. School-Based Attendance Interventions Related to Absences 

1 day of 

unexcused 

absence 

Contact parent on the same day and each time a student has the 

equivalent of one day of unexcused absence, with daily follow-ups 

as necessary. 18 

3 days of 

unexcused 

cumulative 

absences 

Send 3-Day Unexcused Absence Letter to parent. 

4 days of 

absences 

(excused or 

unexcused) 

5 days of 

unexcused 

Phone call home after four absences to discuss the student’s 

attendance. 

Send 5-Day Unexcused Absence Letter to parent and refer student 

to Student Support Team (SST) for an attendance intervention 

conference to be held within five days of the referral. (Applicable to 

five unexcused absences within one term.) The SST will develop an 

action plan in partnership with the student and the student’s parent. 

32

cumulative 

absences 

7 days of 

unexcused 

cumulative 

absences 

Send Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) warning letter to 

parent. 19 

10 days of 

unexcused 

cumulative 

absences 20 

Student is considered chronically truant. Contact the District Child 

Family Services Agency (CFSA) for students aged 5-13. Refer student 

for follow-up attendance SST interventions for students aged 14 and 

older. The SST assigned to the student will notify school leader of 

action plan within two days of the referral. 

15 days of 

unexcused 

cumulative 

absences 21 

Submit referral within two days to Court Social Services Division (CSS) 

for students aged 14 through 17. 

20 days of 

unexcused 

consecutive 

absences 

Notify parent that student is eligible for withdrawal due to 20 

consecutive days of unexcused absences. 

F. Prohibited Actions Related to Absenteeism 

DC law prohibits specific actions related to student truancy and absenteeism as follows: 

• No minor may be expelled or receive an out-of-school suspension due to an 

unexcused absence or due to a late arrival to school. 

• No minor may be un-enrolled from DCPS due to unexcused absences or due to 

late arrival to school unless the student has accumulated 20 or more full-schoolday 

consecutive unexcused absences. 

• No student will be transferred from their school for absenteeism, including 

students who are attending an out of boundary school. 

33

• At the beginning of the school year, no student should be withdrawn unless they 

fail to attend at least one (1) day of school in the first three (3) weeks of school 

without notification for such absence; or transfers to another educational 

institution. 

G. Attendance, Grading, and Promotion 

Student grading and promotion can be impacted by an accrual of unexcused 

absences as follows: 

• Secondary students with ten (10) unexcused absences in any class shall receive 

an initial written notice that they are at risk of receiving a grade of “FA” (failure due 

to absences) in that subject upon accumulating more than thirty (30) unexcused 

absences 

• Secondary students with fifteen (15) unexcused absences in any class shall 

receive an additional written warning that they are at risk of receiving a grade of 

“FA” (failure due to absences) in that subject upon accumulating more than 

thirty (30) unexcused absences. 24 

• Secondary students accumulating more than thirty (30) unexcused absences in 

a course within a full school year shall receive a failing final grade in that course 

with a resulting loss of course, credit. 25 

• Students accumulating more than thirty (30) unexcused absences within a 

school year shall only be promoted if a written justification is submitted by the 

principal to the Chancellor, 26 or the student attends summer school and is 

reevaluated for promotion. 27 

H. Late Arrival for Secondary Students 

• Students will be marked tardy if they arrive in class 5 minutes or more after the 

official start of the period. 

• Students who enter class late should be given clear guidance regarding how to 

get caught up with the class lesson. 

• Students will be allowed to enter their scheduled course regardless of what time 

they arrive. Teachers should make every effort to make late arriving students feel 

welcomed. 

• There is no point in a class period that a tardy will convert to an absence. If a 

student attends a portion of the class, he or she will be considered present and 

tardy. 

• Students must always have access to make-up work. 

• Multiple instances of a student being tardy may not be accumulated to count as 

an absence. 

• Responses to student tardiness should be appropriate and logical. A student 

should never be suspended due to being tardy. 

34

I. Early Dismissal 

DCPS will not recognize early dismissal of students unless that dismissal is related to an 

excused absence. Parents must notify the school when requesting an early dismissal. 

Impact of Absences on Student Grades 

Students with 10 unexcused absences during a single term will receive written 

warning that they are at risk of receiving a failure due to absences upon 

accumulating 30 or more unexcused absences. Students must also receive a written 

warning at 15 unexcused absences. 

Attendance Documentation 

All excuse notes should be submitted directly to Mr. Perry/Ms. Willingham 

daily. Teachers are required to collect excuse notes during 1st period and their 

assigned Student Attendance Ambassador will bring the notes to the Attendance 

Office. Parent/Guardians are responsible for submitting an excuse note within 5 days 

immediately following the last day of their student’s absence. WE WILL NOT ACCEPT 

EXCUSE NOTES AFTER 5 DAYS! For convenience, Roosevelt has an “Absence Excuse 

Note Form” available in the Main Office. Although we have an “Absence Excuse 

Note Form” parents are more than welcome to submit a handwritten document. All 

notes will be time stamped and logged into ASPEN within 48 hours of receipt. 

Parent/Guardian Contact: 

Any contact that is made with a parent regarding attendance should be logged into 

ASPEN and shared with an Attendance Counselor (via email) immediately following the 

conversation. Text messages and verbal conversations are not acceptable forms of 

notification of a student’s absence. However, an email is appropriate and acceptable. 

Please forward these messages to Mr. Perry (james.perry@dc.gov) or Ms. Willingham 

(krystal.willingham@dc.gov). An excuse note is mandatory. 

FAQ’s 

Is school attendance required? Yes. School attendance is required by law for all 

students who reach five years of age on or before September 30 of the current school 

year. Students must attend school daily until they meet high school graduation 

requirements or reach their 18th birthday. 

What is the school attendance law? The District of Columbia Compulsory School 

Attendance Law 8-247 and DC Municipal Regulations Title V Ch. 21govern mandatory 

school attendance and the ways schools must respond when students are truant. 

The Compulsory School Attendance Law states that parents/guardians who fail to have 

their children attend school are subject to the following: 

35

• Truancy charges may be filed against the student or parent; 

• Neglect charges may be filed against the parent; 

• Parents may be fined or jailed; 

• School-aged students may be picked up by law enforcement officers during school 

hours for suspected truancy; 

• Students may be referred to Court Diversion and other community based 

interventions; 

• Students will be referred to SST’s and school based intervention services; 

• Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) and the Office of the State Superintendent 

of Education (OSSE) will receive notice of all students with 10 or more unexcused; 

and Parents and students may be assigned community service and placed under 

court supervision/probation. 

What is truancy? Truancy is the unexcused absence from school by a minor (5-17 years 

of age) with or without approval, parental knowledge, or consent. 

What happens when a truant is picked up by police? All uniformed law enforcement 

officers in the District are responsible for truancy enforcement. 

• Students are transported in a police vehicle to their school. 

• Parents are notified of the student’s truancy status. 

Parents and students attend a truancy conference at the local school. 

Support Services 

DCPS is committed to serving all students residing in the District of Columbia, including 

homeless children and youth. 

A homeless student is defined as a child without a regular, fixed, and adequate 

nighttime residence. The child may live in a shelter, a temporary home, a motel, a car, 

a campground, or on the street. Homeless children may also be living temporarily with 

relatives or friends because of a loss of permanent housing. 

Neediest Kids Fund/Bridge to Success 

Neediest Kids is a charitable organization, now associated with National Council for 

Children and Families that provides emergency resources to help students whose basic 

needs might otherwise go unmet. The organization’s mission is to help meet immediate 

needs of students so they can stay in school and reach their full potential. At present, 

DCPS school staff can request uniforms, shoes, and groceries/personal items/medicines 

to supports student needs. 

To learn more about supports offered by this program contact your school counselor or 

teacher. 

36

Section III –Technology Use 

DCPS Student Safety Use and Policy for Internet and Technology 

Policy 

DCPS will use technology protection to block or filter Internet access to visual depictions 

that are obscene, pornographic, or harmful to minors. DCPS reserves the right to 

supervise and monitor students’ online activities and to access, review, copy and store 

or delete any electronic information or files and disclose them to others as it deems 

necessary. Students should have no expectation of privacy regarding use of DCPS 

property, the DCPS computer network or the use of the Internet, files, or email while 

within the network. 

Penalties for prohibited use may result in restrictions to network access or cancellation 

of accounts. Additionally, violations may result in disciplinary and/or legal action for 

students including suspension, expulsion, and criminal prosecution. 

DCPS makes no guarantee that the functions or quality of the network services it 

provides will be free of errors or defects. DCPS is not responsible for any claims, loss, 

damages, costs, or other obligations arising from use of the network or accounts. Any 

charges a student incurs due to network use will be borne solely by the student. DCPS is 

not responsible for the accuracy or quality of the information obtained by the student 

through use of the system, unless the information is obtained from the DCPS website or 

the District of Columbia Government website. Any statement accessible on the network 

or the Internet is understood to be the author’s individual point of view and not that of 

DCPS, the District of Columbia Government, their affiliates, or employees. 

1. Acceptable and Prohibited Internet Use 

A. Acceptable uses of email and Internet on the DCPS computer network 

Use of network email and Internet that is directly related to the mission, business, and 

educational goals and policies of the D.C. Public Schools. 

B. Prohibited uses of email and Internet on the DCPS computer network 

All DCPS students are prohibited from the following when using the DCPS computer 

network: 

• Accessing DCPS network and email accounts outside of school without a parent 

or guardian supervising the usage, unless the student is 18 or older. 

• Revealing personal information about themselves on the internet, including 

name, address, telephone number, and uploading photographs. 

• Personally meeting anyone with whom they have only had prior contact with on 

the Internet. 

• Using profane, vulgar, or abusive language. 

2. Procedures and Guidelines: Content and Conduct 

37

A. Students are prohibited from using the DCPS computer network to transmit 

fraudulent, harassing or obscene, or otherwise inappropriate email messages. Examples 

of such messages include but are not limited to: 

1. Messages sent under an assumed name, modified email address, or with the 

intent to obscure the origin of the message. 

2. Messages that harass an individual or group because of race, color, religion, 

national origin. sex, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, 

gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, genetic information, 

disability, matriculation, or political affiliation. 

3. Messages that are obscene, contain pornography, or are harmful to minors. 

4. Messages containing indecent speech or hate speech. 

B. All contents of all files located on computer equipment owned or maintained by 

DCPS are considered property of DCPS and are subject to search by DCPS at any time 

and for any reason. 

C. Students shall not display or transmit any images, sounds, or messages, or other 

material that could be considered pornographic in nature. 

D. Students shall not display or transmit any images, sounds, or messages, or other 

material that could create an atmosphere of harassment or hate. 

E. Students are prohibited from online game playing and gambling, unless these 

activities are legitimately related to school curriculum and coursework a teacher or 

other appropriate school personnel is supervising the activity. 

F. Students are prohibited from accessing Internet chat rooms, unless the chat rooms 

are related to school coursework and access is made under the supervision of a 

teacher, parent or guardian. 

G. Students are prohibited from accessing social networking sites, including, but not 

limited to, My Space, Facebook, and Twitter. 

H. Students shall not download or spread computer viruses on DCPS network computers 

or engage in any other deliberate conduct that disrupts, obstructs, or burdens the 

resources of the DCPS computer network. 

I. Students shall not use the DCPS computer network to engage in any illegal or criminal 

acts, including, but not limited to, criminal gang activity, threatening the physical safety 

of another person, or computer hacking. 

J. Students shall not install or run any type of software on a DCPS network computer 

without the consent of the Office of the Chief Technology Officer. 

38

K. Students may not use network computers for personal financial gain by posting 

messages that advertise the student’s own personal business or any business or venture 

in which the student has a financial interest. 

L. Students shall not read, modify, or remove files owned by other students. 

3. Procedures and Guidelines: Network Security and Equipment Maintenance 

A. Students are prohibited from sharing their password or login identification with any 

other person. 

B. Students are prohibited from logging into the network by using account information 

belonging to another student, teacher, or network administrator. 

C. If a student discovers or has reason to believe that another student has obtained 

unauthorized access of his/her account, the student shall contact a teacher or other 

school personnel, as well as immediately change his/her password. The teacher or 

school personnel shall immediately contact the Office of the Chief Technology Officer 

or a network administrator. 

D. Students are prohibited from modifying or rearranging technology equipment 

belonging to DCPS, including keyboards, monitor, printers, and computers. 

E. Students shall report any cases of malfunctioning equipment or other network issues 

to a teacher, or other school personnel. The teacher or other school personnel shall 

contact a network administrator. 

F. When using public workstations, students shall log off of the network before leaving 

the workstation. Students shall further ensure that the workstation is in suitable condition 

for the next student. 

G. When using private or individual workstations, students shall lock their computer or 

log off of the network if they will be away from the workstation for an extended period 

of time. 

Cellphones and Electronics 

Cell phones and electronics are not permissible in the school during instructional day 

(per RHS policy). 

Students may activate cell phones before school and after school. All cell phones must 

be stored in RHS cell phone lockers before school and retrieved after school 

ends. Students who violate this policy will have their phones taken and returned by an 

administrator or dean at the end of the school day. Other electronics will be held by an 

administrator or dean and must be picked up by a parent or guardian. If a student 

refuses to give a teacher his/her phone, do not discuss further, instead call an 

administrator to address the situation. 

39

Section IV –School Rules and Policies 

Student Attire and Grooming 

Student attire reflects the collective values of our school community, along with 

respect for self, safety, good health, self-expression, accountability and comfort. 

We respect the uniqueness of each individual student. This policy recognizes this 

and ensures a safe, productive learning environment for all students. A student’s 

grooming and attire should not interfere with his or her learning or that of 

another student. If a student’s chosen appearance is not in compliance with 

age-appropriate guidelines, they may be required to change or modify their 

attire. 

Inappropriate dress includes, but is not limited to: 

• Any clothing jewelry or accessories with decorations, patches, lettering, 

advertisements, etc., that may be considered obscene or offensive are 

not to be worn to school This includes any clothing, jewelry, accessories 

that may be used of weapons, accessories having drug, sexual emblems, 

tobacco or alcoholic beverage references or designs. 

• Any clothing, accessories, symbols, jewelry, or other paraphernalia, which 

depicts or suggests association with a gang, secret society, shall not be 

brought to school, worn at school, or in any way be present at any schoolsponsored 

event. 

• Form-fitting garments such as spandex may only be worn with another 

layer of clothing, which meets the dress code. 

Shirts & Blouses 

• Crop tops, tube tops, halters and spaghetti straps are unacceptable 

(anything less than 2 inches is considered a spaghetti strap.) Strapless 

dresses without jackets are unacceptable. 

• The display of cleavage is unacceptable. Low cut blouses, tops, sweaters, 

etc. with plunging necklines are not allowed. 

• Transparent and/or see through material is considered unacceptable. 

Shirts/tops must touch the waist of pants/shirts at all times (i.e. when in 

movement, when arms are extended or raised, and when in seated 

positions, etc.) 

Pants 

• Intentionally torn or cut/slashed pants that show excessive skin are 

considered indecent exposure are inappropriate. Manufactured boot-cut 

slits are acceptable. 

• Pajamas and flannel pants are inappropriate. 

Accessories 

• All students must wear shoes. Slippers are inappropriate. 

• Students should wear athletic footwear in order to participate in any 

physical education class. 

40

• Proper undergarments should be worn but not visible. 

• Oversized chains or spiked jewelry are unacceptable. 

Headwear 

• No hats, headbands, bandanas (any color), beanies, scarves, or hairnets 

will be allowed to be worn inside of the school building. This includes time 

before class, in-between class, and after school. Theodore Roosevelt High 

School Global Studies Campus recognizes and respects the religious 

expression of all our students. Students who wear head coverings for 

religious purposes are exempt from this policy. 

Dress Code Enforcement 

• Students may be removed from the learning environment in order to 

adjust the dress code violation 

• Students will be asked to put on their own alternative, if already available 

at the school 

• Students will be provided with temporary school clothing to comply for 

the remainder of the day 

• Chapter 25 progressive discipline for students who continue not to comply 

with the policy 

• No student should be affected by dress code enforcement because of 

racial identity, sex assigned at birth, gender identity or expression, sexual 

orientation, ethnicity, cultural or religious identity, household income, body 

size/type or body maturity. 

41

Grading 

Grades shall be based on student achievement and the timely completion of 

work. The classroom teacher is responsible for the evaluation of student academic 

performance, Intervention Support, accompanied with Student Success Plans (SSP). 

and the awarding of grades. Teachers are expected to use a variety of methods in 

evaluating students: examinations, teacher-made tests, homework, projects, and 

student classroom participation are examples of methods that may be used to 

evaluate students. Teacher-made summative assessments are approved by 

Department Instructional Coach and should be appropriate, rigorous, and meet or 

exceed DCPS standards for the subject matter and the age or maturity level of the 

students. 

All students with unexcused absences are allowed to make up work at the teacher’s 

discretion and must be given 48 hours to complete assignments. Teachers should follow 

the DCPS Roosevelt High School grading and attendance policy set values for each 

category. Teachers are expected to submit progress report and report card grades 

based on the deadlines determined by the DCPS calendar. 

DCPS Grading Policy 

● Teachers will enter numerical assignment grades into Aspen’s gradebook feature. 

Instructors are required to enter three grades per week; 1 participation, 1 assessments 

(e.g. exit ticket, tests or quizzes), 1 practice and application (e.g. Classwork and/or 

homework). 

● Teachers will consistently log in journal notes into ASPEN for both positive and 

redirection purposes to inform students and parents of progress towards student success 

plans. 

● Aspen will generate term letter grades from “A” to “F” (which can be modified by 

instructors). Note: Aspen maintains a record of grade modifications. 

● Aspen adds the weighted, 4-point numbers together to find the appropriate number 

utilizing a 4-point scale (e.g. A=4, A-=3.7, B=3, C+=2.3, F=0, etc. ). 

● Based on this range and average of scores, a final letter grade is assigned. 

● RHS makes every effort to recognize students who are academically successful. At 

the end of each grading term, students are eligible and recognized on the honor roll 

list; provided they meet the established minimum requirement of a 3.00 GPA. 

● Student Success Plans [SSPs] must be completed by students and families no later 

than the midpoint of the term. 

42

Numerical Value 

Grade 

93 – 100 A 

90 – 92 A- 

87 – 89 B+ 

83 – 86 B 

80 – 82 B- 

77 – 79 C+ 

73 – 76 C 

70 – 72 C- 

67 – 69 D+ 

64 – 66 D 

student collaboration rubric will be posted on each table and referenced during the 

instructional block. 

Notification of Failed Courses 

Notification of a failed class must be communicated to students and parents within 14 

days of the end of the term; failure notices must be sent through the guidance office 

and recorded in ASPEN. Exceptions will be allowed by the principal under the following 

circumstances: major failures in the last two weeks of the quarter; SpEd students without 

approval from administration; and students with a 504 plan (review the RTI Tier 1 and Tier 

2 process for further understanding). 

Incomplete Grades 

Incomplete grades must be closed out within the first two weeks of the following quarter 

and should not appear on any students report card. Approval of incomplete grades will 

be given from the principal and exceptions will be made on a case by case basis – 

requests for exceptions must be submitted to the principal two weeks before the end of 

the term. Incomplete grades are not permissible in the fourth quarter or as a final 

grade. 

Students are responsible for completing classwork during in-school and off-campus 

suspensions; requests for classwork will come from the school Dean of Students, 

Reginald Stevens. All assignments must be immediately submitted to the instructor upon 

the students return to class, and students are expected to make up any additional 

assignments that may have been missed as a result of their absence. 

Instructors must allow students with excused absences to make up any work missed and 

it is the responsibility of the student to submit documentation of their excused absence 

(school related absences are considered excused). Students are expected to make 

every effort to see their teachers for the makeup assignments; tests, quizzes and labs will 

be completed at the convenience of the teacher. Generally, make-up work should be 

completed within two days of returning to school. Extended absences of three or more 

days will be given an extended deadline to complete missed assignments; students 

should be allowed extra time and support to complete said assignments. 

In the case of an intentional, unexcused absence (i.e. skipping school, cutting class or 

non-medical absence), all students with unexcused absences are allowed to make up 

work at the teacher’s discretion and must be given 48 hours to complete 

assignments. Instructors must review this policy with students at the beginning of each 

term. 

Guidance Services 

The overall goal of the counseling department is to provide information and resources 

for students, parents and teachers. The resources available to students will consist of 

44

academic advising, college and career information, personal counseling, parent 

involvement groups, student records and outside agency referrals. 

The counselors will seek to help students establish academic goals, develop personal 

strengths and interest, and help prepare students for college and after high school. The 

counselor will communicate with parents regarding their child’s academic progress, 

and assist parents with any concerns they may have regarding classes and programs 

their child may participate in. 

Students in 9th- 11th Grade will meet quarterly with their counselors while 12th Grade 

meet monthly with their counselor. Students are permitted to schedule individual 

conferences at their discretion. All appointments with counselors should occur before or 

after school, during lunch period and/or advisory. 

Health Services 

The school nurse and suite is available Monday – Friday, from 8:00am – 3:30pm to assist 

students with their medical needs. Teachers must provide students with a pass before 

granting permission to visit the health suite – medication is only given to students with 

written authorization from a licensed physician and parental consent. 

Assemblies & Special Events 

All students will be escorted to assemblies and special events by a teacher or 

administrator in an orderly and prompt manner. Each grade and class will be assigned 

a permanent seating space during the school year. To ensure a productive and 

organized event, teachers are required to remain with their class throughout the 

duration of the assembly. 

The days and times of all assemblies will be calendared and announced in advance. 

The following guidelines are designed to provide members of the RHS community with 

guidance on how they can both enjoy and support school performances and 

assemblies: 

• Teachers will sit with their students during school wide assemblies. 

• Give your full attention to the performance – come to performances prepared 

to give your full attention. 

• Undesired noise is not only distracting to other audience members, but can be 

disruptive for those on stage. The highest regard should be given to performers. 

You can show your appreciation during a performance by applauding when 

appropriate and by giving performers positive words of encouragement. 

Translation Services 

DC Public Schools provides language line services to assists with communication and 

translation services. You can reach these services through the following steps: 

1. Dial 1-800-367-9559 

45

2. Enter on your telephone keypad or provide the representative: 

• 6 digit client ID: 

• Press 1 for Spanish 

• Press 2 for all other languages (Speak the name of the language at the 

prompt). An interpreter will be connected to the call. 

3. Brief the Interpreter-- Summarize what you wish to accomplish and give any special 

instructions. 

4. Add the limited English speaker to the line 

Section V –Building Security and Safety 

School Emergencies or Accidental Events 

Accidents involving students must be reported immediately to an adult. 

Emergency Procedures: Fire Drills, Bomb Threats and Evacuation Plans 

The procedures for evacuation must be reviewed with all students at the beginning of 

each semester, so students understand the necessity for order during an evacuation. It 

is vitally important that all staff review the procedures for emergencies with students. 

When the fire alarm sounds: 

• Teachers and students must move quickly and quietly toward exit specified in 

the emergency evacuation plan; if your exit is blocked use the nearest alternate 

exit. 

• Report any unaccounted students to the school administration ASAP. 

• Students are to line up in the areas that have been designated in the 

emergency evacuation plan. 

• Remain in the assigned waiting area with the students until given the “all clear” 

to return in the building. 

• Students are not allowed to visit other classes during this time. If an evacuation 

happens between classes, students will meet with their 2nd Period Teacher on 

the football field. During lunch and other non-class events, students will meet 

with their 2nd Period Teacher. 

All personnel shall adhere to the following guidelines if there is a lockdown: 

Support Staff and Students 

• Close and lock all classroom doors and turn off the lights. 

• All individuals in the classroom should move to one side of the classroom and 

away from windows, if possible – out of sight, and should remain quiet 

• Do not leave the classroom FOR ANY REASON. 

• Listen carefully to announcements. DO NOT dismiss until advised by the principal 

or his designee. 

46

Visitor Policy 

We welcome parents and other visitors to Roosevelt SHS during the school 

day. However, we ask that all staff persons adhere to the following procedures to 

ensure the safety of our students and our staff. 

All visitors are to sign in at the security station and present identification upon arrival to 

the building. To ensure the safety of students and staff, do not accept visitors or 

volunteers who come to your office or classroom unannounced or without a visitor pass 

or volunteer badge. This ensures that all individuals have reported to the security 

station, and that we have an account of who is in the building. This includes individuals 

working with our school’s maintenance staff, personal friends and relatives. 

Surveillance & Safekeeping 

Under NO circumstances, should any external doors be propped open at any time, for 

any reason. This poses a serious safety threat to our entire school. 

Unfortunately, RHS is not immune to thefts. We have had several incidents of theft from 

personal items in classrooms and offices – please adhere to the following guidelines: 

• All personal items (i.e. pocketbooks, leather coats, electronics, etc.) should be 

locked and secured. 

• Never leave personal items in open sight on desks and around the classroom. 

RHS is not responsible for lost, missing, stolen or damage to personal or professional 

property. 

Smoking on DCPS Property 

Smoking in all District of Columbia Public Schools is strictly prohibited, both inside and 

outside, and all school property. 

47

Section VI –Senior Standards and Expectations 

Decision-Making 

Whether attending college, entering the world of work, or completing the last 

year of high school, you must begin/continue to make good decisions. Good 

decisions soundly and profoundly support personal and career goals. Take the 

following steps when faced with decisions. 

10 STEPS TO BETTER DECISION-MAKING 

● Define the decision to be made. 

● Gather the necessary information. 

● List all possible choices. 

● Consider possible outcomes for each choice. 

● Check out how you feel about each of the choices. 

● Relate the choices to your values and priorities. 

● From the possible alternatives, chose one. 

● Commit yourself to your decision and disregard the others. Concentrate 

your energies in one direction. 

● Take steps to turn your decision into positive action. 

● Evaluate your progress from time to time. Change your decision if 

necessary. 

Now that you have been acquainted with the steps, ensure that you use 

them as the foundation for making all decisions. By doing so you will find that 

throughout life making the right decisions will lead you in the right direction! 

Before reviewing the content of the remaining pages of this booklet, it is 

extremely important for you to decide now to make the right decisions. A 

right decision is one that will bring you the most positive result from your 

actions. Whether deciding to execute the duties and responsibilities 

associated with being a senior at Theodore Roosevelt High School, choosing 

“friends” or associates, deciding what to wear to school, being on time, or 

studying each night, you must make the decision that will bring you the most 

positive result! 

48

Senior Standards and Expectations 

Standards solidify the foundation for success. They provide measures of 

accountability and equity for all students. The following are the requirements to 

be considered as a senior in good standing for the Class of 2020. These include, 

but are not limited to, Senior Inauguration, Graduation, Prom, and other senior 

events. 

⇒ There will be a “NO PARTICIPATION” list for students who violate the Code 

of Student Conduct of District of Columbia Public School System (DCPS), 

and the Standards and Expectations of Theodore Roosevelt High School. 

Upon the first offense, seniors/twelfth graders will be placed on the “NO 

PARTICIPATION” list and will be automatically placed on probation for 

participation in senior related events. Subsequent violations will result in an 

automatic exclusion from one or more events. 

⇒ This is your last year of high school and you are required to serve as role 

models for freshmen, sophomores, and junior. You must also demonstrate 

that you are ready to enter college or the world of work. It is also wise to 

remember that participation in all events is a privilege; not a right. 

Participation Standards 

Faculty members are responsible for supervising all senior events; therefore, they 

must be respected at all times. In addition to fulfilling academic requirements in 

all classes, seniors must adhere to the DCPS Code of Conduct and the 

Participation Standards of Theodore Roosevelt High School, in order to earn the 

privilege of participation. 

49

GLOSSARY 

Dean of Student: responsible for maintaining school culture and climate, PBIS, 

and facilitating positive discipline of the student population. 

Guidance Counselors: support the student’s academic, social, and career 

development needs. Support the instructional goals of the school. 

Intervention Coaches: provide mental health counseling and support to general 

education students, oversee advisory groups, community-outreach, 

training/Edu/consult services for staff. 

LEA Representative: lead and oversee all things special education and support 

services for students. 

Partnering Agencies: this includes speech pathologist, occupational therapist, 

physical therapist and additional social-emotional support positions. These 

agencies provide support to students and collaborate with school staff to 

support student behaviors. 

RTI/504 Coordinator: leads and coordinates 504 meetings. Responsible for 

planning and coordinating RTI team meetings, collaborates with the MDT 

members, collaborates with PBIS team, and trains staff on RTI process. 

School Social Workers: provide mental health counseling and support to 

students receiving Special Education (IEP/504) services, collaborates with the 

team to provide additional support as needed. 

School Psychologist: administers testing and interprets results to determine 

student’s eligibility for support services. 

50

APPENDIX 

51

PLANNING FOR COLLEGE 

Information on the following pages has been prepared to inform students and 

parents about the college admissions process. By using this guide, you will find a 

step-by-step process for both college decision-making and the application 

process. Colleges have differing selection criteria. Well-informed applicants can 

enhance their admission chances by making sure that the amount and quality of 

information in their admissions folders are appropriate. Admissions officers are 

interested in the qualitative nature of student’s achievements, as well as in 

supportive comments from teachers, counselors, and friends who write on the 

student’s behalf. 

Most colleges consider factors such as grades, class rank, quality of academic 

preparation, standardized tests, extra- curricular activities, work experience, and 

volunteer participation when considering a candidate’s application. However, 

colleges have varying criteria for admission, which is published in college 

handbooks and catalogues. Generally speaking, the smaller private and highly 

selective colleges rely on subjective, as well as objective, data contained in a 

student’s application and recommendations. By contrast, the larger public 

and/or less selective colleges rely more on objective data as they review 

hundreds or thousands of applications. 

Although much of the following information in generally applicable to the college 

applications process, some information, such as that on the personal essay, 

relates only to the application process at highly selective colleges. A happy and 

successful match between college and student is the goal of both, and it is well 

worth the time and effort required to assure this satisfying outcome. The Theodore 

Roosevelt College and Career Counselor and support staff is here to assist you in 

this process. Feel free to contact us at any time with your questions or needs. 

HOW TO CHOOSE A COLLEGE 

The process of choosing the “right” college can be an exciting and rewarding 

experience. The term “right” refers to a college where you fit in academically 

and socially. It should be a place where you can prepare for your future as well 

as pursue other interests. You will probably find many schools that meet your 

needs and at times you may become confused, even if you approach your 

52

selection through a step-by-step decision-making process. Eventually, however, 

you will find the college, or colleges, that are right for you. 

STEP 1: KNOW YOURSELF 

Take a self-inventory – get to know yourself. A college that is right for you will 

depend upon your individual goals and characteristics: 

● Goals 

● Knowledge 

● Public Service 

● Money 

● Creative Freedom 

● Prestige 

● What kind of person do you wish to become? 

● Of your particular gifts and strengths, which would you most like to 

develop? 

● What are your academic strengths and weaknesses? 

● Where do you excel? 

● Do you excel in any extra- curricular or non-school activities? 

● What social interests do you have? 

● How do you spend your free time? 

● How do you relax? 

● What are your work habits? 

● Would you expect to thrive at a highly competitive college or one where 

the program was less demanding? 

● What kind of academic extra-curricular balance would help you to grow 

academically and socially? 

● How do you learn best? 

● Do you work best independently or with others? 

53

STEP 2: GET TO KNOW THE COLLEGES 

Establish a list of criteria for the college you would like to attend. Know the TYPE 

of school you want to attend: 

● Do you want to attend a 2 or 4-year school, college, university, or technical 

school? 

● Do some reading about each type of college, university or technical 

school. 

SELECTIVITY: 

● How selective do you want the college to be? Admission decisions vary 

widely from institution to institution. 

● On the basis of your grades, college admission tests, and special talents, 

develop a range of admissibility for yourself. 

● Remember, no single factor (particularly SAT), will, by itself, determine 

admission. 

MAJOR: 

What majors are you looking for? If you are like most students, you aren’t sure. 

That’s o.k. Seek colleges that offer a broad curriculum so that you have the 

flexibility to change majors as your interests change. Of course, if you are anxious 

to pursue a certain specialty, such as engineering or architecture, be sure you 

look for schools with strong programs in those areas. 

PRICE RANGE: 

WITH YOUR PARENTS, decide what you can afford to pay. Total expenses vary 

greatly among schools. Don’t rule out a college simply because of cost. Most 

institutions have scholarships, loans, grants and jobs to help pay bills. Please note 

that as a District of Columbia Residents you qualify for the DC Tuition Assistance 

Grant (DCTAG). Please ensure that you meet with your guidance counselor to 

register and find out additional information. 

SIZE OF SCHOOL: 

Does the idea of a large school appeal to you, or is it fulfilling? 

54

LOCATION: 

Local or distant – consider the mode of transportation to and from school, 

climate, and environment. you will be living there for 4 years. Do you want to be 

on an urban or rural campus? 

RELIGIOUS ORIENTATION: 

Many schools are church-related, but the degree of student involvement and the 

percentage of students practicing the predominant religions vary widely. Look 

for a place where your value system will allow you to feel at home. 

FRATERNITIES, SORORITIES AND SPORTS: 

Do you want to be a part of a Greek system, or would you prefer a social climate 

where most students are independent? 

MAKE-UP OF STUDENT POPULATION: 

● Does this matter to you? 

● Do you want co-ed, state school (where most student are from within the 

state), private school (where a deliberate attempt is made to admit 

students from a variety of cultures, countries, and socio-economic 

backgrounds)? 

SPECIALTY PROGRAMS: 

● Do you want to study abroad? 

● Are you interested in a co-op or internship experience where you can 

combine practical work experience with education? What other factors 

are VITAL to you? 

● By seriously considering the factors mentioned above, you have 

completed the toughest part of this process. By now, you should have a 

reasonably clear idea of who you are and what you are looking for. Now 

it is time to do some research. 

55

STEP 3: WHERE TO TURN 

● Start with your school or local library (or bookstore if you prefer). There are 

many college guides, search books, etc. available. You can also find books 

written from students; perspectives. 

● It is important to consult a variety of sources when dealing with subjective 

information. 

● Visit your Guidance office/Career Center. Look through catalogues and 

college bulletins. 

● Do a computer search with your counselor… 

● Begin an information network. Seek out alumni, friends and family members 

who are familiar with schools that interest you. 

● Keep in mind; you are looking for something that will be right for you, not 

Uncle Mike or Aunt Kim. 

WHAT’S NEXT? 

● Experience the real thing – plan to visit several campuses. 

● Always write for information and plan your visit before going to a campus. 

● Find out about campus tours, weekend sleepovers, interviews, and 

describe your areas of special interests. 

● It is best to visit when the college is in session. 

● If you can, spend the night on campus. Talk with students and faculty, 

attend classes, look for signs of what is important on that campus (politics, 

sports, cultural activities, partying)? 

● Check out the surrounding town or city. Do you feel comfortable there? 

● What is the atmosphere like on campus (easygoing, rushed, dead)? Do 

you feel comfortable there? 

● If possible, attend a college class in the department of interest to you. 

● Talk with professors in that department. 

● Do you like their approach? 

56

● What do students say about the department? 

● Will you have the opportunity to do research? 

● Who lectures – professors or teaching assistants? 

● Is tutoring available? 

● What other support services will be available to you? 

● What are the students like? 

● Do you anticipate that you would fit in? 

● How is the food? 

● What do the kids do to relax? 

● What type of entertainment is available to you on and off campus? 

● What does it tell you? 

● Write down your impressions at the end of the visit to a college. 

● What was good? 

● What was bad? 

● Using the charts provided in the appendix, and your set of prioritized 

characteristics. 

● Read the school newspaper (preferably several issues) 

● Compare colleges on your list. 

57

College Comparison Worksheet 

COLLEGE 

NAME 

LOCATION 

· Distance from home 

SIZE 

· Enrollment 

· Physical size of campus 

ENVIRONMENT 

· Type of school (2 year; 4 year) 

· School setting (urban, rural) 

· Location and size of nearest city 

· Co-ed, male, female 

· Religious affiliation 

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS 

· Deadline 

· Tests required 

58

· Average test scores, GPA, rank 

· Special requirements 

· Notification 

ACADEMICS 

· Your major offered 

· Special requirements 

· Accreditation 

· Student-faculty ratio 

· Typical class size 

COLLEGE EXPENSES 

· Tuition, room and board 

· Estimated total budget 

· Application fee, deposits 

· Register for DCTAG 

FINANCIAL AID 

· Deadline 

· Required forms 

· % Receiving aid 

59

· Scholarships 

HOUSING 

· Residence hall requirement 

· Availability 

· Types and sizes 

· Food plan 

FACILITIES 

· Academic 

· Recreational 

ACTIVITIES 

· Clubs, organizations 

· Greek life 

· Athletics, intramurals 

CAMPUS VISITS 

· When/ Special Events 

60

WHAT DO COLLEGES LOOK FOR WHEN 

SELECTING STUDENTS? 

Colleges look at the “total student” when making admissions decisions, but they also have 

some minimum criteria they expect candidates to possess. Listed below are some areas that 

are considered. Check the college catalogue to find out what the specific colleges you are 

looking at expect of you. 

High school grades/courses/class rank 

Schools look not only at your grade point average (GPA) but also at the type of courses you 

have taken. Many schools have minimum requirements for entrance, such as math through 

Algebra 2 and foreign language. Some schools only count major subjects when calculating 

a GPA. Some schools also look at your class rank (how your GPA places you in comparison to 

other students in our class). Are you in the top 5%, 10%, 25%? 

Standardized test scores 

Many schools require that you take one of the college admissions tests and use your scores 

as a predictor of how you will do in their college setting. Check the college handbooks, 

catalogues or with your counselor to find out what the average SAT’s or ACT’s are for the 

schools in which you are interested. There is a school for everyone, no matter what the test 

score, but you should not apply to some schools if your scores are way “out of the ball park.” 

Prince George’s Community College will accept any high school graduate and does not 

rely on these admissions tests. If you do not score well, perhaps you want to start at a local 

two-year community college and then transfer to a four-year college (which will then not 

look at test scores but only at your grades in college level courses) 

The Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) 

What is the SAT and how is it structured? 

The SAT is a standardized, multiple-choice test used by most U.S. colleges and universities for 

admissions and placement decisions. SAT scores can also be used to determine scholarship 

eligibility. The test is administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) and given 

nationally seven times a year. 

The SAT is a seven-section, three-hour exam. Three of the sections are Verbal, three are 

Math, and one is experimental. The experimental section, used by ETS strictly for its own 

research, can be either Verbal or Math and is not counted toward your final score. The 

seven sections appear in a slightly different order every time the SAT is administered. 

61

2019 – 2020 SAT Schedule 

Test Date Registration Deadline Late SCORE 

Verbal Math 

August 24, 2019 July 24, 2019 August 11, 2019 

October 5, 2019 September 5, 2019 September 23, 2019 

Wed., October 16, 2019 

School Day Testing 

Automatic Registration 

For SENIORS 

November 2, 2019 October 2, 2019 October 20, 2019 

December 7, 2019 November 7, 2019 November 25, 2019 

Wed., March 4, 2020 

School Day Testing 

Automatic Registration 

For JUNIORS 

March 14, 2020 February 13, 2020 February 24, 2020 

May 2, 2020 April 2, 2020 April 20, 2020 

June 6, 2020 May 6, 2020 May 23, 2020 

*The late registration deadline is one week earlier if you are registering by mail. 

REGISTRATION 

Registration deadlines fall approximately five weeks before each test date. To register by 

mail, simply fill out the registration form in the College Board's Bulletin for the SAT Program. 

You can obtain a free copy of this publication from your school's guidance counselor. You 

can also register online at www.collegeboard.com. 

Practice 

We highly recommend preparing for the SAT. There are many sources on the Internet to 

support your effort. It is unwise to take or retake the SAT without adequately preparing for 

the challenge. You can be successful, if you are willing to make the sacrifices for success! 

Sites 

• The World’s Best Prep Couse for the SAT I: www.bestprep.com 

• http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/sat/about.html 

• http://apps.collegeboard.com/satprep/index.jsp 

62

• http://testprep.princetonreview.com 

• http://a4esl.org/g/h/fb007-ck.html 

• http://www.puzz.com/analogies.html 

• http://www.freesat1prep.com/sat/verbal/critical reading tips and advice.htm 

• http://www.freesat1prep.com/sat/verbal/critical reading questions.htm 

• http://www.freesat1prep.com/sat/verbal/sentence completion 

• http://www.freesat1prep.com/sat/verbal/sentence completion/tips and advice.htm 

• http://www.freesat1prep.com/sat/verbal/sentencecompletion questions.htm 

The following sites are for SAT I vocabulary study: 

• http://www.kent.wednet.edu/KSD/MA/resources/greek_and_latin_roots/page_1.hrml 

• http://www.kent.wednet.edu/KSD/MA/resources/greek_and_latin_roots/prefix1.hrml 

• http://www.freevocabulary.com 

Services for Students with Disabilities 

The College Board is committed to serving students with disabilities by providing services and 

reasonable accommodations appropriate to the student's disability and the purpose of the 

exam. Services for Students with Disabilities (SSD) provides PSAT/NMSQT, and SAT testing 

accommodations for students who have documented disabilities. 

Preparing for and TAKING “THE ACT” 

Test-Taking Strategies 

The ACT Assessment ® measures the knowledge, understanding, and skills that you have 

acquired up to now. Although the sum total of this knowledge cannot easily be changed, 

your performance in English, mathematics, science, and reading can be affected by 

adequate preparation, especially if it has been some time since you have taken a course in 

that area. 

Three strategies can help you to prepare yourself for the content included in the ACT: 

• Familiarize yourself with the content of the ACT tests. 

• Refresh your knowledge and skills in the content areas. 

• Identify the content areas you have not studied. 

2019 – 2020 ACT Schedule 

Test Date Regular Late SCORE 

English Math Reading Social 

Studies 

September 14, 2019 August 16, 2019 September 1, 2019 

63

October 26, 2019 September 27, 2019 October 13, 2019 

December 14, 2019 November 8, 2019 November 25, 2019 

February 8, 2020 January 10, 2020 January 17, 2020 

April 4, 2020 February 29, 2020 March 16, 2020 

June 13, 2020 May 8, 2020 May 25, 2020 

July 18, 2020 June 19, 2020 June 29, 2020 

Sites 

• http://aapsample.act.org/aap/testprep/samples2.html 

• http://www.act.org/aap/taking/index.html 

• http://www.act.org/aap/testprep/engstrat.html 

• http://www.act.org/aap/testprep/mathstrat.html 

• http://www.act.org/aap/testprep/readstrat.html 

• http://www.act.org/aap/testprep/sciencestrat.html 

Task Checklist 

Use this checklist as your personal record to ensure that all tasks are completed in a timely 

manner. Moving from left to right, if task has been completed, place an “X” under the 

completed column, if task is in progress, then place an “X” in that column. If a task requires 

time for completion, then record the date that you worked toward completion of the task. 

Task/Requirement: Completed In Progress Date Date Date Date 

RHS Credits 

64

Community 

Service Hours 

Attendance 

College Visits 

SAT 

ACT 

DOES Office of Apprenticeships 

1. Students register on www.dcnetworks.org – include high school information, work history, 

and a completed resume; call 202-724-2337 to verify that the student’s information 

registered the following day. 

2. Randall Shannon is the POC for placing individuals in apprenticeships at the DOES Office 

of Apprenticeships 

• Students can email their resume, with a brief cover letter intro in the body of the 

email detailing their interest in an apprenticeship, along with whether they have a 

DL or will take public transit to a job site to Mr. Shannon 

(Randall.shannon@dc.gov); if you have students do this, please DCPS Central 

Office contact Katherine Novinski (Katherine.novinski2@dc.gov) so that I can 

follow up as necessary by phone or have the student cc the relevant schoolbased 

staff member. 

• Mr. Shannon will conduct a pre-screening (interview) where he covers 

expectations, such as the fact that they will be drug tested on a regular basis; 

students should come “Dressed to Impress” for the pre-screening 

• If students pass the pre-screening, Mr. Shannon identifies the apprenticeship 

sponsor in the area and sends the student to interview with the company; he said 

there are both union and non-union electrician apprenticeships (union is the local- 

26 and applications are due at end of March); non-union companies often have 

their own test, etc. and he has prep materials. 

Organization 

IT Training 

Year Up 

Organization Website 

www.yearup.org 

Training Programs 

Offered 

IT, Software 

Development, 

Business Operations 

65

Per Scholas 

perscholas.org 

Free IT Training - 

entry level positions 

in IT: Help desk 

support, field 

technicians, etc 

Cosmetology & Barbering Programs 

Ballou STAY 

Roosevelt STAY 

Bennett Career 

Institute 

Workforce Development Programs 

UDC-CC 

Workforce 

Development Lifelong 

Learning 

Center 

United Planning 

Organization 

Excel Automotive 

Institute 

Public Allies 

Career Technical 

Institute 

http://www.balloustay.com/apps/pages/index.jsp?uREC_ID=204297&type=d 

Barbering teacher: Marsten Davis 

Cosmetology teacher: Helen-Marie White 

http://www.rooseveltstay.org/apps/departments/ 

http://www.bennettcareerinstitute.org/ 

udc.edu/wd 

http://www.upo.org; http://www.upo.org/building-careers-academy/ 

http://www.excelautomotiveinstitute.org/ 

PublicAllies.org 

https://careertechnical.edu/ 

Cosmetology, 

Barbering & Culinary 

Arts program (free for 

DC residents) 

Cosmetology, 

Barbering, Culinary 

Arts, (free for DC 

residents) 

Cosmetology program 

(not free; FAFSA can 

help cover some cost) 

Certificates in 

following fields; 

Hospitality, 

Construction, IT, and 

Nursing; students 

must take the CASAS 

exam; free 

CDL, EMT, Hospitality, 

Culinary, Plumbing, 

Electrical Tech, Tele- 

Com, Professional 

Building Maintenance, 

and Information 

Technology (IT); 

students attend 

information session 

and must pass the 

CASAS exam; free 

Auto-tech program 

(cost associated 

unless you qualify 

through DOES under 

WIOA) 

10-month 

apprenticeships with 

nonprofits fulfilling a 

capacity-building role 

IT, medical assistant, 

hospitality training 

programs; (cost 

associated unless you 

66

qualify through DOES 

under WIOA) 

DC Central 

Kitchen https://dccentralkitchen.org/enroll/ Culinary Arts 

DC Job Corps 

Outreach & 

Admissions 

DCPS Leading Men 

Fellowship 

www.jobcorps.com 

http://www.dcedfund.org/leadingmen/ 

Nursing, Office 

Administration, 

HVAC, Carpentry, 

Computer Technology 

One year fellowship 

in early childhood 

education 

Cadet Programs 

Metropolitan 

Police 

Department - 

Police Cadet 

Academy 

DC Fire and EMS 

Metro/WMATA 

https://mpdc.dc.gov/page/cadet-program-application-process 

https://fems.dc.gov/page/cadet-program 

https://www.wmata.com/about/careers/ 

Metropolitan Police 

Department 

DC Fire & EMS cadet 

program; need a 2.5 

GPA 

Entry-level jobs that 

only require a high 

school diploma; most 

bus driver and or 

metro driver jobs 

require that you must 

be 21+ and have a 

driver’s license 

Apprenticeship Programs – Construction Trades 

DOES Office of 

Apprenticeships 

IBEW Local Union 

26/JATC 

Independent 

Electrical 

Contractors 

Randall Shannon (randall.shannon@dc.gov) & Larry Barnes 

(larry.barnes@dc.gov) 

https://www.washdcjatc.org/onlineapplication.cfm 

POC: Lawrence Hyson 

Overview: https://www.iecchesapeake.com/electrical-apprenticeshiptraining-program 

Application: https://www.iecchesapeake.com/apply-now 

Apprenticeships – DC 

area; send resume 

and cover letter to Mr. 

Shannon to be 

interviewed and 

connected to DC 

apprenticeship 

sponsors for an 

interview if you meet 

standards 

Electrician – 


(Union); apply online; 

need diploma or GED 

Electrician – 


(non-union); need 

diploma or GED 

67

POC: Ed Hersl 

Mid-Atlantic 

Regional Council 

of Carpenters 

International 

Union of Elevator 

Constructors – 

Local 10 

Plumbers and 

Gasfitters – Local 

Union 5 

www.mactc.net 

www.iuec10.com 

www.local5plumbers.org 

International 

Union of Painters 

and Allied Trades www.iupatdc51.com 

International 

Association of 

Heat and Frost 

Insulators and 

Allied Workers – 

Local 24 

GRID Alternatives 

– Mid-Atlantic 

(DOEE Solar 

Works partner) 

Military Pathways 

National Guard 

U.S. Coast Guard 

Army 

Navy 

Marines 

www.insulators24.org 

https://gridalternatives.org/regions/midatlantic/solar-works-dc 

http://www.dcnationalguard.com/eligibility.html 

https://www.gocoastguard.com/ 

https://www.uscg.mil/top/careers.asp 

Solar panel 

installation training & 

OSHA 10 certification 

(construction preapprenticeship) 

https://www.navy.com/joining/ways-to-join/never-served#ftqualifications-&-commitment 

https://www.marines.com/request-information 

Carpentry – 


(union); need 


Apprenticeships – 

Elevator Constructors 

(Union) 

Apprenticeship – 

Plumbing (Union); 

need diploma or GED 

Apprenticeship – 

Painters (Union) 

Apprenticeships and 

Pre-Apprenticeships – 

Heating, Ventilation 

and Air Conditioning 

(HVAC – Union); 


preferred but not 

required 

Meet with recruiter; 

take and pass ASVAB; 

civilian positions exist 

that do not require 

you to pass the ASVAB 

exam 


take and pass ASVAB 

exam to enlist 










68

RHS_Senior_StudentHandbook.SY19-20

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template?