Student Handbook

Academic Parent Portals:

• PowerSchool: Parents and students are encouraged to register for a free PowerSchool account so that they can view student grades and teacher comments online throughout the year.  Information for signing up for the Parent Portal will be sent home in the mail or with your students at the start of the year. Please look for this information.  Further instructions on how to set up an account can be found on this page under the Parents tab. Students sign in using their Google accounts.
• Beyond Textbook Parent Portal: Beyond Textbooks (BT) is the instructional framework that all SUSD schools follow.  Parents are encouraged to access the new, free Beyond Textbooks Parent Portal webpage which can be found on this page. The portal contains video, information, and links to the following areas of interest to parents:
  • What is Beyond Textbooks?
  • What is My Child Learning, and How Can I Help?
  • Benchmark Test Review Handbooks
  • Dinnertime Conversations
  • What is Reteach and Enrich?
• Ready Math and Ready Reading/ i-Ready: i-Ready math /reading is an online component of the district adopted math and reading program called Ready Math and Ready Reading. i-Ready will help us determine your child’s needs, personalize his or her learning, and monitor progress throughout the school year in the areas of math and reading. It allows us to meet your child exactly where he or she is and provides data for us to increase your child’s learning gains. This part of the Ready Math and Ready Reading programs is for students to practice skills independently. It is built off of their individual needs and it is set-up to allow students to do the lessons without adult help. Each school year, Information coming home about i-Ready math/reading will include:
  1. i-Ready Parent Guide (hard copy and via email)
  2. i-Ready instructions for signing onto an iPad (hard copy and via email)
  3. Your child's login and password information (hard copy)

Please visit the i-Ready website to start the interactive lessons at home with your child at the i-Ready Family Center, linked on the following page.

Absences:

Step 1:                                              

• Teacher and Student Conference

Step 2: 

• Letter Regarding Absences Sent to Parent/Guardian

Step 3:

• Parent/Guardian, Student and Wrightson Staff Meeting

Step 4:  

• Letter Regarding Absences Sent to Parent/Guardian (US Certified Mail)
• Required Parent/Guardian, Student, Wrightson Staff, and SRO Law Enforcement Officer Meeting

Step 5: 

• Police Report for Truancy to SRO Law Enforcement Officer

  A successful school experience is the responsibility of the child, the parent, and the school.  A child’s progress, both academically and socially, is influenced by daily participation. The State of Arizona considers 5 days of unexcused absences truancy.  Regular attendance without tardiness is the key to academic excellence.

Attendance Procedures:

• When a student is absent, a parent/guardian must notify the school attendance office no later than 10:00 a.m. by completing one of the following options wrs.attendance@sahuarita.net, on the Wrightson Ridge Report An Absence page linked on the following page, or by reporting the absence on ParentSquare.
• Please note: without proper written documentation the absence will be unexcused. If you have completed one of the above options, you do not need to turn in a parent note to the office. 
• To excuse an absence, parent/guardian must provide one of the following written documentation (i.e. Dr’s note, parent note, email, report an absence link, ParentSquare) explaining the student’s absence within 5 days after the student returns to school. 
• Due to state policy, any student missing more than 10 consecutive unexcused days of school will be withdrawn.  Parents must re-enroll the student if/when returning.

A student’s absence from school is ONLY excused for the following reasons:

• Participating in a school related activity
• In school or out of school suspension
• If the school health assistant sends a student home, the student is excused for the number of days allocated by the Health Assistant. (All students must be seen by the school Health Assistant if going home early due to illness, if not, the absence will be unexcused.)       
• Observance of major religious holidays of the family’s faith
• Illness
• Bereavement or other family emergencies

Please continue to bring in a doctor’s note if you have it. You may also email a copy to wrs.attendance@sahuarita.net. After 10 absences, written medical documentation from a healthcare professional may be required. 

Reminders:

• Absences are counted by semester and checked quarterly.
• Students can begin arriving at 6:50 a.m. All campus gates are locked; there is no supervision before 6:50 a.m..
• First bell rings at 7:15, any student not in their assigned seat at 7:20 a.m. will be marked tardy.
• All security gates will be locked from 7:20 a.m. until dismissal time. During school hours all Wrightson Ridge visitors must bring a valid photo ID to be allowed on campus.  Visitors are required to sign in and leave their photo ID at the Front Desk. They will be given a visitor’s badge to wear while on campus. The badge must be in clear view at all times. 

Administration:
Our two administrators are here to help.  They believe in an “open door” environment and encourage parents and students to contact them with questions, concerns or ideas. Everyone is welcome at Wrightson Ridge. 

• Mr. Chris Jackson, Principal, 625-3502 ext 2004
• Mrs. Carly Carrillo, Assistant Principal, 625-3502 ext. 2001
   

After-School Activities:
Wrightson Ridge will offer a wide variety of after school activities during the year.  Studies have shown that students who actively participate in extracurricular activities are more likely to succeed and excel in school.  Only students participating in an after school activity, program or sport are allowed to remain on campus.  Students must have signed permission to stay after school for activities. Students must be accompanied by an adult if they are going to watch an activity.

Arrival And Pick-Up:
** Safety Above Convenience** ALL drop off and pick up of students must be in the right lane
 

Before 6:50 a.m. all campus gates are locked and there is no student supervision. Students can begin arriving at 6:50 a.m.  There are two designated drop off locations on campus.  Students K-8th grade can be dropped in the loop on the west side of the school, or in the bus loop after buses depart. Students that arrive on campus prior to 7:15 a.m. must go to their grade level waiting area or to breakfast in the cafeteria. Any student not in their seat at 7:20 a.m. will be marked tardy.
 
Morning waiting areas: (6:50 a.m. - 7:15 a.m.)
K-2nd Grades – K-2 Playground (enclosed area with play equipment)
3rd-5th Grades – 3-5 Playground (large grassy area in the middle of campus)
6th-8th Grades - Middle School Courtyard (East of the Cafeteria)

All security gates will be locked from 7:20 a.m. until dismissal time.

Students arriving to school after 7:20 a.m. will need to report to the front office for check in. The parent or guardian must accompany the student inside the office to sign the student in. 

Dismissal Changes - All dismissal changes must be submitted in writing or calling into the front office (520-625-3502 x2000) before 12:00 p.m. No dismissal changes should be left on a teacher’s voice mail or front office voicemail, you must speak to someone in the front office.

Dismissal Schedule:

 Kindergarten – 8th Grade Parent Pick-Up;

• Kindergarten through fifth grade and middle school students with k-5 sibling students will be picked up at the west loop by the library. For safety please do not park and walk your student up to drop them off, please use the drive up method. Students will be dismissed through their assigned waiting areas and escorted out to the loop. K- 5th grade parents will be issued a colored sign with an assigned number and grade.  This must be placed in the vehicle’s front window.  This will be used to signify permission to pick up a student.  Without a sign, you will need to go to the front office for an i.d. check. 
  • If you are in need of a colored sign, please notify the front office. 
• Walkers: As new homes are being built, we have several walking students.  They are allowed to walk home at the end of the day.  Parents who want to meet their walker on campus are asked to stand down by the bike racks with your child's parent pick-up sign.  If you make arrangements for your child to walk straight home, without a guardian waiting for them at the bike racks, they are allowed to do so when their end of the day bell rings. 
• 5th-8th grade students without k-4 siblings will be picked up in the Bus Loop after buses depart. Students will watch for their parent/guardian’s arrival and enter their vehicle. Colored signs will not be issued for middle school.
• Please arrive at the time of the oldest child’s dismissal time.
• Wrightson Ridge Aides will be present to assist with this dismissal process until 2:20 pm. After 2:20 students will be in the office after the parent/guardian is called for pickup. 
• Wrightson Ridge’s first and foremost concern is the safety, security, and welfare of our students.  Everyone picking up a student in grades K-5 must have a colored window sign.  If changes need to be made to the Emergency Contact List, please contact the Wrightson Ridge front office for a Student Information Update form. 

Bus/After School Care Vans:

• All Kindergarten through 5th grade students will be escorted to the bus loading area. 
• Wrightson Ridge Aides will always be present to assist with this dismissal process until 2:20 pm.
• 6th, 7th & 8th grade students will not be escorted to the bus loading area.

Questions about bus routing, stops, pick-up times, etc., please contact Transportation
             520-625-3502  x1127 or  x1128. 

Early Sign Out For All Students:
Parent/Guardian must sign out students in the front office and must show a picture ID. Please note: if someone other than the Parent or Guardian is picking up the student early, they must have a note from the parent/guardian with approval.  
 

Athletics: 6-8 Grades
1^st Quarter- Boys’ Flag Football, Girls’ Volleyball, Cross Country, and Cheerleading.
2^nd Quarter- Girls’ Soccer, Boys’ Basketball, and Cheerleading.
3^rd Quarter- Wrestling, Girls’ Basketball, Boys’ Soccer, and Cheerleading.
4^th Quarter- Girls’ Softball, Boys’ Baseball, and Track & Field.
 

• There is a $35 Pay to Play participation fee for all sports each quarter.  Scholarships are available if you cannot afford the fee.  Please submit a letter requesting a scholarship to an administrator.
• A physical examination is required in order to participate in after school athletics.  A new physical exam is required each year and needs to be submitted prior to the first day of tryouts, no exceptions (Arizona Interscholastic Association Regulation).  Physical exams for the following school year shall be given on or after March 1st.
• Students are issued a uniform free of charge and are expected to return the uniform in good condition.  If the uniform is damaged or lost, the student will be charged for the replacement of the uniform.  Students will also lose the privilege of fun activities or field trips until the uniform is turned in or paid for.
• All student/athletes are expected to adhere to all student conduct policies, including bus rules, while participating in athletics.  Academic Eligibility is checked every two weeks.  Students with D’s and F’s are ineligible and will not participate.
• A copy of the Student Athletic Code of Conduct is located on the WR website.
• All students who participate in athletics must complete the Akitave Register My Athlete, linked on this page, annually and register for each sport. 

Backpacks:
To help your child carry school materials, you are asked to provide a backpack.  Notebooks and folders are encouraged to support organizational skills and school/home communication.  Please check it every day.  The school and/or your child’s teacher will provide school related info throughout the school year. 

Be Kind:
Wrightson Ridge is a Kind Campus.  We constantly look for ways to help promote acts of kindness.
 

Birthdays/Special Occasions:

Individual birthday parties for students interrupt daily instruction and will not be allowed until the last 15 minutes of the day, or at lunch time, per the teacher’s discretion.  Please check with your child’s teacher for their individualized class procedure for birthdays and special occasions.  Please adhere to our district wide Wellness Policy.  Store bought nutritional snacks and/or non-edible treats are preferred. All snacks must be individually wrapped. Student flower and balloon deliveries are not allowed on the bus or in the classrooms. For safety reasons, they will be held in the front office until the end of the day.

Breakfast:
Breakfast is served every morning from 6:50 a.m. - 7:15 a.m.  Breakfast is $1.25  for K-5 grade students and $1.55 for 6-8 grade students. (Reduced price for breakfast is $0.30 for K-8)

Bullying:
Will NOT be tolerated.  Bullying is defined as the activity of repeated, aggressive behavior intended to hurt another person, physically, verbally or emotionally and where there is an imbalance of power. Students found to be bullying other students, will be disciplined by an administrator.  As a school, we document any aggressive activity through Incident Reports.  If you feel your child has been a victim, please contact their teacher or counselor, and your student must fill out an Incident Report.  We cannot fix it unless we know about it.

Bus:

Riding the bus is a privilege.  Students will be suspended from the bus if they do not follow the rules.  It is important to keep all students safe. All students and parents/guardians will be required to sign a detailed rules and consequences contract.

• All bus route information must be obtained through our transportation department at 520-625-3502 ext.1127.  It is the parent’s responsibility to contact the transportation department in order to get correct bus route information so you may provide this to your child’s classroom teacher. Teachers or the front office DO NOT have this information.
• In the interest of student safety, consistency, and effective operations, our policy at the district is that we will drop off students at the designated stop as identified by the child’s parent/guardian.
• It is asked that you please designate one bus stop where you would like for our professional bus drivers to deliver your child each afternoon after school.
• Any changes to the designated schedule must be in writing and given to the teacher at the beginning of the day.(i.e. doctor’s appointments, etc.)  This information is then given to the front office to ensure accuracy. No phone calls will be accepted by the teacher and no changes by phone to the office one hour prior to dismissal to change departure information. Only emergencies will be approved through the school principal. Please call the front office at ext. 2000 in the event of an emergency.

Cafeteria: 

Children may bring a packed lunch from home or eat a school lunch.  Food is not allowed on the field or gym. A menu will be posted online. Lunch prices are subject to change. The school lunch is $2.70 for K-5th grade and $3.00 for 6th-8th grade. Reduced lunch price for K-8th grade is $.40. Sodas are discouraged and energy drinks are not allowed at school during school hours.

• The ability to check the balance of your child’s lunch money account and make online payments is now available.  All you need is your student’s ID number.  Go to the district website at www.myschoolbucks.com/  (There is a $2.75 convenience fee for online payments.)
• Students who qualify, may receive meals for free or at a reduced rate.  Applications for free or reduced lunches are online at the district website. https://www.nlappscloud.com/District.aspx?host=sahuaritausd.nlappscloud.com&apply=1&api=&sdid=1293 If the family’s financial situation changes during the year, the application can be filled out at any time.
• Payment for lunches should be given to the teacher at the beginning of the day for K-5th grade students and can be in cash or check made out to SUSD #30.  Paying in advance (i.e. one week or one month at a time) is strongly encouraged.  Middle school students can pay on their own during lunch or breakfast.  Children without lunch money will be given an alternative meal consisting of a sandwich and milk.  
• If you have any questions, please call the cafeteria at 520-625-3502 ext. 1023

Cafeteria Rules:

In our cafeteria, students focus on appropriate manners. In order for students to receive proper nutrition, students must have an opportunity to eat all their lunch without disruption and to sit in an area free of litter.  Most importantly, the cafeteria must be safe for students while they are walking to and from their tables, as well as while they are seated. The guidelines are as follows:

• Indoor/whisper voices. (K-5th Grade)
• Students are expected to use appropriate table manners.
• Excessive misbehavior or disrespect will be reported to the classroom teacher. Depending on the severity of the offenses, an administrator will be informed.
• Throwing food will not be tolerated.
• Students are not allowed to handle or share other students’ food.
• Any inappropriate behavior not covered will be subject to disciplinary action.
• We ask that all parents wishing to eat with their child during lunch eat on the outside patio due to limited space in the cafeteria. (Due to supervision guidelines, parents may only eat with their child and no other students during this time.)
• Please remember that any family member or friend wishing to attend our campus for lunch or a special event must be accompanied by a parent/guardian or be a board approved district volunteer.
• Eating food outside of the cafeteria is not permitted, unless staff have given special circumstances. 
• **Students are not allowed to receive food via delivery services (i.e. Grubhub, UberEats etc.).

Calendar:

The school year calendar is filled with important events for the year.  A monthly newsletter will be posted on the Wrightson Ridge web page, as well as sent home electronically.  For those who do not have technology access, contact the teacher to request a hard copy.  You can find the calendar on the SUSD website linked on this page.

Campus:

School pride is of the utmost importance and keeping the campus clean is a priority.  Everyone needs to do their part and keep the campus clean by throwing away trash or other materials.  Take pride in our school!
 

Checks:

When writing checks out for payments, please make sure the check is made out to SUSD#30.
 

Classroom Concerns:

Your child’s teacher is the best source of information about individual classroom procedures and your child’s progress.  If you have a question or concern, please contact the teacher directly prior to contacting the principal. 

Classroom Placements:

Teaching teams carefully construct homeroom classes to be balanced learning communities.  Every effort is made to balance classrooms for gender, emotional, physical, behavioral, and academic needs.  We welcome the sharing of your perspective regarding your child’s learning needs; however, requests for specific teachers will not be accepted. 
 

Communication:

You are always encouraged to contact your child’s teacher by phone or email.  You can contact the main office at 625-3502 ext. 2001 or leave a message.  The front office can also transfer you to the teacher’s voice mail where you can leave a message.  Please be patient with the principal and teachers on returning your calls. They are very busy during the day with their students and may not have time to get to their messages until the end of the day.  All phone calls will be returned within 24 hours (business days). You are also able to send teachers messages on ParentSquare. (See more under ParentSquare.)

Conferences:

We recognize that open communication between home and school is critical for a child’s success. School-wide parent conferences are scheduled twice a year.  On these days, school will be dismissed per the half day schedule to accommodate conferences with parents. If you feel it necessary to have additional conferences with your child’s teacher, please send a note or email at least one day in advance. The teacher will communicate to arrange a suitable time for a conference to be held. Since teachers have classroom obligations, no conferences will be scheduled when children are in class.  Please see the calendar for dates.  
 

Discipline:

We will be following our PBIS Program expectations in order to help students learn and be responsible for their behavior.  At Wrightson Ridge, four general school-wide expectations guide our behavior:  Be Safe, Be Responsible, Be Respectful, and Be Kind. When school rules are broken, an Off Track Ticket or a Discipline Report will be filled out.  All discipline reports will be processed and assigned by administration.  All consequences may include, but are not limited to:

• Phone call home and/or loss of privileges
• Lunch detention: Written notification to parent/guardian
• After-school detention:  Verbal and written notification to parent/guardian
• In-school suspensions:  Verbal and written notification to parent/guardian
• Out-of-school suspension:  Verbal and written notification to parent/guardian
   

Dress Code:

 At Wrightson Ridge, we are committed to preparing our students for the future.  This preparation includes academics, social, and job skills.  The classroom is the student’s “workplace”; we expect them to dress accordingly.  The following dress code is a district-wide requirement for all K-8 students:

Shirts:

• Must be solid white, gray, tan, blue, or red. ( Pink Shirts)
• Must have a collar or be a SUSD sponsored spirit shirt, shirt must have sleeves.
• Must not be longer than the middle finger with arms resting at the student’s shoulders, or tucked in.
• Plain without logos or insignias.
• Must be shorter than shorts and skirts.
• Sweaters, sweatshirts, jackets or undershirts may be in any color. Hooded sweatshirts are allowed, but the hood must be down while inside.
• Dress code shirts must be worn under sweaters/jackets.

 Pants, Jeans, Capri’s, Shorts & Skirts:

• Must be solid black, tan, navy blue, white, or gray. No embellishments such as stripes, glitter or designs.
• Skirts and dresses must be longer than the student’s fingertips with arms resting at the student’s side.
• Shorts must be longer than the student’s thumb tips with arms resting at the student’s side.
• Must not sag below the waist.
• Must not have any skin showing. Rips or tears must be patched or covered. Leggings can be worn under jeans so that skin is not showing.
• Leggings or Jeggings can be worn as pants but must be in dress code colors. If they are inappropriate (see-through), students will be asked to change. 
  • If leggings are worn under skirts or shorts, they can be any color or design.

Shoes:

• Must have a back strap for safety reasons, no slippers. Crocs are allowed in sport mode.

Hats:

• Hats are allowed.
• Hair Clips, headbands and barrettes, are permitted, but no bandanas or sweatbands.

Piercings:

• Any piercings that disrupt the learning process or may pose a potential safety concern will not be permitted.

P.E. Uniforms: 6-8 Grade Students:

• P.E. Uniforms
  • Shirts- plain white or gray, solid colors with no logos.
  • Bottom- plain blue or black, solid colors with no logos.
     

Out of Dress Code Days:

For Fundraising or as an earned reward students are allowed to have designated Out of Dress Code Days.   

• No mid section showing
• No backless; No halter tops
• No mini skirts
• No spaghetti straps; no strapless shirts/dresses]
• Rips or tears must be patched or covered so that skin is not showing\

Dress Code Violation Policy:

Middle School Students:  Dress code checks will occur during 1st period and throughout the day.  A log of each incident is kept for each quarter

• 1st Infraction: Sent to the office with a pass. A sticker will be provided and your name will be logged. Students may need to change or call home for appropriate clothing. Student will serve lunch detention.
• 2nd Infraction: Sent to the office again with a pass. You will receive a second sticker. Name is logged again. Student will serve lunch detention and parent will be notified.
• After the 3rd occurrence, in a quarter, progressive discipline will be implemented. 

Elementary students: will be asked to change clothes in the health office.  If we do not have any clothing to fit, students will call home to have a parent/guardian bring appropriate clothing in. Student name is logged after each dress code violation. After 3 dress code violations, students will receive a discipline referral from the school administration and will receive Lunch detention.
 

Drug/Alcohol/Weapon Free School Zone:

Sahuarita Unified School District is a zero tolerance school district.  Any student in possession of or under the influence of any of these may receive a 1-year suspension. If a student gives or sells drugs on campus, they may be expelled from SUSD.  This also extends to any gang influences in school. Law enforcement will also be contacted.
 

Early Release Wednesday:

The Sahuarita School District has early-release on most Wednesdays to allow for staff development. Dismissal time is 1:05.  Please consult your district calendar for further information.
 

Electronic Devices:

The District and Wrightson Ridge assume no responsibility for personal items lost or stolen. 

• Cell phones and other portable devices such as IPods, MP3s, video game players, laser pens, cameras, smart watches that have cell phones are not to be used on campus by students between the hours of 6:50 a.m. – 2:05 p.m. 
• Teacher alliance for cell phone usage: Allowed when directed by the Teacher for educational purposes only; it may not be used for reward purposes. 
  • Consequences for students caught with a phone in hand:  
    • First offense: warning to put it away
    • Second offense: phone will be confiscated & locked in the office safe. 
    • Third+ offense: phone will be confiscated and parent/guardian must pick up the phone. 
• If there is an emergency, there is a phone available for student use in the front office.  

Email:

You may email your child’s teacher with any important information or questions.  Teacher emails differ, but all emails end with @sahuarita.net.  it is best to check the school’s staff directory website, which you can be find on the Staff page linked here.

Professional response time-line for emails includes a 24 hour return email during business days. 
 

Emergency and Safety Procedures:

The school has developed policies and procedures in the event of an emergency at school.  These policies are taught in the classroom.  We will practice and become familiar with procedures before our first scheduled drill. These include fire, lockdown and evacuation drills.

Expectations of Students:

At Wrightson Ridge, school-wide expectations guide our behavior: 

Be Responsible, Be Respectful, and Be Safe.

Each student is expected to:

• Exhibit regular attendance, punctuality, and active participation in the learning process.
• Contribute to a positive climate on campus by treating school property, other students, and all adults with respect.
• Demonstrate positive citizenship and kindness.
   

Fees (Subject to Change):

• NJHS: $15 per year 
• Pay to Play: $35 per sport (Middle School)
• Art Fee: $10 per year 
• Digital Media/ Photography/ videography/ yearbook : $10
• Replacement ID: $5
• 8th graders with outstanding fines/fees cannot participate in 8th grade promotion related events and activities unless paid in full. They will also not receive class schedules for the start of 9th grade until paid in full.

In the event of financial hardship, contact the school office for additional information and  support. 

As a District, we are committed to keeping student fees at a cost effective/minimal amount. The messaging goal is to be proactive and not let a fee detour or hinder a student from registering for a fee based program. Thank you!

Field Trips:

Field trips are both fun and educational for students.  We need parent volunteers on the trips (the number of spaces may be limited).  A notice will go home before each trip. Our field trips are funded basically through parent donations and tax credit donations, which are collected to enable every student to participate. While no child is denied these experiences, failure to receive sufficient funding may result in cancellation of the trip. If you have questions concerning this matter, please contact your child’s teacher or the principal. All volunteers MUST be Board Approved and complete a Field Trip Volunteer Expectations Slip. The teacher will provide you with this form or you can find it on the last page of this section.

Fighting:

Is unacceptable student behavior and will not be tolerated.  Consequences may include but are not limited to police involvement, in-school or out-of-school suspension, parent notification, mediation, after-school detention, and/or loss of privileges.  Students are encouraged to see a counselor, administrator, or staff member if they are having issues with another student and fill out an Incident Report.
 

Fundraising Sales:

The school does not permit individual students to sell items while at school from bell to bell, regardless of whether it is for personal profit or to be donated to a non-profit organization.  ALL school fundraising events must be Board approved.
 

Guidance Counselor (520-625-3502 Ext. 2007 or 2006)

The elementary guidance program focuses primarily on classroom guidance, small group sessions, and, on a limited basis, individual sessions.  The middle school counselor focuses primarily on individual sessions, scheduling and other areas of concern that may arise.  Our counselors will help in any area where help is needed such as test taking skills, making new friends, coping with peer pressure, study skills and more.  Any student should feel free to talk to the counselor whenever they feel the need.  Parents are also encouraged to communicate with our counselors and may call to schedule an appointment.

Gum:

Chewing gum is prohibited on campus and on the bus.  Let’s help keep our school clean!
 

Health Office (520-625-3502 Ext. 2005)

Please report all absences per school attendance policy. 

Bathroom Accidents: If a student has a bathroom accident, the Health Assistant will be notified.  The Health Assistant will make arrangements to meet the student at a designated location to address the situation. Parents will be notified and a clean change of clothes will be offered, if available. Soiled clothing will be double bagged and placed in the student’s backpack to bring home to be cleaned. Very soiled clothing may be stored in the health office for parent pickup.

Chronic Illness: Please contact the health office if you have a student with a chronic illness (asthma, seizures, food allergies, diabetes, etc) so we may know how to best meet your child’s needs during the school day. Further medical documentation may be requested.
 

Illness at School: 

Health Assistant will tend to minor illness or injury.  For more serious illness or injuries, parents will be contacted. 

• Students must not come to school if they are sick! Please monitor your child for any signs of illness each morning before sending them to school. 
• Any student with a temperature (fever) of 100.0 Fahrenheit or higher, will need to stay home until they are “fever-free” for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medications.
• Any student with “Flu-Like” (or moderate to severe individual symptoms), must stay home until symptoms are resolved. (Cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, new loss of taste or smell)
• Any student with vomiting will need to stay home until they are vomit-free for 24 hours without the use of vomit suppressing medications.
• Any student with diarrhea will need to stay home until they are diarrhea-free for 24 hours without the use of diarrhea suppressing medications.

Student Medications:

SUSD#30 is a drug free zone. All prescription and non-prescription medications must be brought to school by an adult, a medication administration consent form must be completed, and medications must be stored in a designated location and administered by the School Health Assistant or other staff member (designated by the principal. If your child needs to self-carry an albuterol inhaler, epinephrine auto injector, or other “life saving” medication, please contact the school health assistant.

Immunizations:

On January 1, 1992, the new Arizona State law of School Immunizations went into effect (ARS § 15-871).  The law states that the school administrator shall suspend a pupil if the administrator does not have documentary proof of immunizations or the student fails to receive immunizations as scheduled. 

Lice:

SUSD#30 has a “nit-free” policy. Any student found to have lice and/or nits in their hair will be excluded from school. Parents should treat hair and remove ALL lice and/or nits from the hair, prior to returning the student to school. Students should be accompanied to school by a parent/guardian and the Health Assistant will verify whether or not the student is able to return to class. As a precaution, students with long hair should wear it up, and all students should avoid sharing combs or hats.

Homework:

Homework is valuable and aids with helping students make the most of their experience at school.  It reinforces what has been taught in class, extends and generalizes concepts, teaches responsibility, and helps students develop essential study habits that will be needed through all of their schooling. A general rule of thumb is 10 minutes X the grade level your child is in and setting time aside for reinforcing reading skills with a parent, or sharing with a sibling.  If your child is spending more than an hour of homework time a day, please contact your child’s teacher.  *For an excused absence, it is the responsibility of the student to obtain make-up work.  The student will have as many days as they were out to make up the work.  If the absence is unexcused or late, credit may be awarded at the discretion of the teacher.

Honors and Recognitions:

Wrightson Ridge acknowledges outstanding student achievement by awarding students with various awards throughout the year. 3rd-8th grade Awards assemblies will be held the 1st, 2nd and 3rd quarters to celebrate these successes in our cafeteria. 4th Quarter awards are distributed in class by the teacher (not a formal assembly). (See the school calendar for dates and times.) K-2nd grade awards will be given out in the classrooms. Teachers will send out invitations for the events. Middle school students who achieve straight A’s for all quarters during their 6th-8th grade years receive a special President’s Education award with their promotion. All visitors must have a guest pass to enter the campus.  

IDs: 

All 6th – 8th grade students are required to have their SUSD ID in their possession while on campus and on the bus. The ID cannot be damaged.  If lost or damaged, the student will have to replace the ID for a fee of $5.00. 

Inappropriate Language:

Foul language will not be tolerated at Wrightson Ridge. There is never a reason to use inappropriate language. The rule is: Don’t say anything to anyone that you would not say to your mother or father.

Independent Reading:

Children learn to read and improve their reading skills by reading daily.  By giving the children time to read both at school and at home, we can work together to provide a literature rich environment and a life-long love of reading.
 

Journals:

One strategy that we use to help convey the print concept is the use of journal writing.  In these journals, Kindergartners combine their emerging writing skills with their drawing skills.  As children are exposed to a variety of phonics and reading experiences, journal entries will move from drawings and “inventive” spellings towards more conventional writing. This is extended through 8th grade and progresses through the Writing State Standards.

Kindness:

Students at Wrightson Ridge are encouraged and expected to treat all members of the school, as well as others, with kindness and respect, regardless of any personal characteristic they have or group they identify with. Bothering others, bullying, and interrupting learning will not be permitted.  Wrightson Ridge is committed to providing a work environment where students, staff, and parents can work together comfortably and productively, free from harassment, intimidation, and bullying. Harassment and bullying are illegal under both state and federal law and will not be tolerated. This includes but is not limited to: verbal abuse that insults or humiliates others.  Also include, name-calling, sexual-innuendos, and using any personal characteristic or identity in a derogatory way or as an insult. 

Library:

All K-5 students go to the library one day a week. Middle School students will go to the library based on the schedule of their language arts class. Please take care of the books that are checked out and have a special place for them at home as your child will be held responsible for lost or damaged books.  We are always looking for volunteers for the library. Please call the school if you are interested in helping. 

L.I.N.K. (After School Program):

The Wrightson Ridge L.I.N.K. program provides after school care for K-5th grade students and is held in the Wrightson Ridge cafeteria. The program begins at school dismissal and closes at 5:30 p.m. There is a fee for this program. The program runs independently from Wrightson Ridge. To obtain more information please call 625-3502 ext. 1212.

Lost and Found:

It is suggested that you write or sew your child’s first and last name in the clothing he/she wears to school so staff members can find the owners of lost clothing.  Items that are found will be turned in at the front office.  Items will be on the lost and found rack located in the front office for at least a month before being turned over to a charitable organization. The district or school assumes no responsibility for lost or stolen items.

Lunch Detention:

If a student has been assigned lunch detention, he/she will serve it in the ACE room.  Students will eat their lunch there and will remain until their lunch break is over. Failure to go to lunch detention on the day it was assigned will result in further disciplinary action.
 

Mission Statement:

Developing the habit of excellence through a balanced education in a safe and supportive environment.

Money:

All money sent to school should be sent in a sealed envelope with the following information on the outside:

• Child’s name
• Name of child’s teacher
• Purpose for money
• Checks written out to SUSD #30

Music:

Students K-5th grade will be taught the basics of music education and will be sharing many wonderful songs. They will have music one day a week. In grades 6-8th, band, orchestra, and choir are available as electives.  Studies have shown that students that play a musical instrument do better in school.  

News:

Wrightson Ridge School sends out school information, including a newsletter, through our ParentSquare app. This will be sent to your home email or via text message.  We also have updated information on our school website and Facebook page. Some teachers send home weekly or monthly newsletters as well.  Look for school letters, email, brochures, flyers, updates, and the school website for additional information.

Organizational Skills:

Students are responsible for being organized for learning. This includes maintaining a folder or notebook for homework and having classroom supplies (appropriate books, pencils, pens, and paper). This also includes keeping a neat desk for younger students.  Students need to come organized and ready to learn.

Paperless School:

It is Wrightson Ridge School’s goal to cut down on our paper usage to save costs and the environment.  Please check your emails daily for important school information.  District and Wrightson Ridge information will also be available on this website.

ParentSquare:

All parents are asked to download the ParentSquare App. This is the platform that will be used for all of the Sahuarita Unified School District communication.  We highly recommend selecting the option on the platform to receive text messages. This will allow for instant communication from the school. You can learn more about ParentSquare on the page linked here. 

Parent Involvement:

Your support of school activities makes your child feel important and sends the message that you value school! We are always happy to have your help for special activities in the classroom. Each teacher will set up parent volunteers for the classroom. If you would like to volunteer in other areas like the library, pick-up/drop-off, or the front office, please see the Visitors and Volunteers section for more information. Also, you can join our school PTO or contact the school principal’s secretary at (520) 625-3502 x 2004 for details. Volunteers planning to come more than 5 times in a school year must be Board approved.

PDA:

Public Display of Affection is not allowed on campus.  If caught, parents will be notified. Further infractions will result in disciplinary action. 
 

P.E. (Middle School):

All students are required to change into exercise clothing that allows for freedom of movement and safe participation during physical education classes. The required P.E. clothing is plain blue or black shorts and a plain gray or white t-shirt. Students can purchase this clothing at any store. Students who, for any reason, are unable to participate in P.E. must bring a note from parents or a doctor. Any request for exemption for more than three days will require a doctor’s note stating the duration of time the student is to be excused. Students who have been excused from P.E. must report to class and complete an alternative assignment.

Pets:

Animals may be brought into the classroom for educational purposes.  However, they must be appropriately and humanely cared for, and properly handled.  Any person who wishes to bring an animal into the classroom must receive prior permission from the principal in order to ensure there are no allergy concerns.  It is also important to note that animals cannot be transported on the bus.  If a pet is brought in for show and tell, only the teacher and owner of the pet may handle the animal.

Phone Calls:

The office will accept incoming phone calls for messages to be passed on to students in emergency cases only. We do not call students out of class to take phone calls. If you call to get a message to your child after 1:00 PM (12:00 on Wednesdays), we cannot guarantee that your child will receive your message. Cell phones may not be used, seen, or heard on campus during the hours of 6:50 A.M. – 2:05 P.M. (Unless directed by the Teacher for educational purposes only.) Please DO NOT text, message, or call your child during school hours as this is disruptive to the school day and will result in disciplinary action. There is a student phone available in the office for students to use if they need to.  

Pick-Up Procedures:

Pick-Up Procedures – During School
Due to the number of students, and with safety in mind:

• All individuals, including parents/guardians are required to show a picture ID when checking out students.
• Adults other than parents/guardians must be listed in PowerSchool with the “permission to pick up” box checked. 

Pick-Up Procedures – After School (Library)
Students (K-5th grade) who are not riding the bus home will be supervised in various waiting areas until a parent arrives. Due to the number of students, and with safety in mind:

• All individuals (K-5th GRADE) are required to display a Wrightson Ridge colored card in their vehicle window when picking up  students via the drive through lane.  All students must be picked up between 1:55p.m. and 2:15p.m. Our staff have other duties after 2:15.
•  L.I.N.K. students will be walked to the cafeteria by the classroom teacher

Pick-Up Procedures – After School (Drive through service)

• The drive through pick up (and drop off lane) is located on the west side of the school near the library for k-5 students and middle school students with k-5 siblings. The bus loop is used to pick up 5th-8th grade students who do not have a K-4 sibling.  The bus loop will open once buses depart. Students will be housed in various locations until parents drive into the designated pick up area to pick up their child.  Support staff will check the displayed colored card and will then radio into the areas to signal the student to come out to the pick up area. Students will be escorted out to the cars by support staff. Once students are safely in the car, parents are asked to pull forward to allow for the next cars to come forward in the line for pick up. Middle School students will wait on the sidewalk of the bus loop area. Please come at your designated pick up time. K-2 (1:55), 3-5 ( 2:00) 6-8 (2:10-this allows extra minutes for your child to get to the designated area). If you come before your designated time, you will be asked to circle around to get back in the car line. This is done to keep traffic moving. Please arrive at the time of your oldest child's pick up time. You will not be allowed to sit idle and wait for the dismissal of all the students. You will be asked to go out and get back in line. 

Parents are not allowed to get their child directly from the classroom.
 

Pledge of Allegiance:

Each school day students will be afforded the opportunity to recite the pledge of allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. Students participating in the recitation of the Pledge will be expected to stand, face the flag, and recite the pledge in unison. Students not participating in the Pledge may (a) stand and refrain from reciting the Pledge or (b) remain seated. Non-participating students shall in no way conduct themselves in a manner which disrupts the observance of the Pledge of Allegiance.

Quality

Quality education is achieved through teamwork between home and school!  “We are only as strong as the community that surrounds us.”

Report Cards:

Sahuarita Unified School District provides a Standards Based Report Card for elementary students (K-5). A standards-based report card lists the most important skills a student should learn in each subject at a particular grade level. Instead of letter grades, students receive marks that show how well they have mastered the skills.  

6th-8th grade students will have a traditional percentage and grade based report card.  The grading scale is as follows:

• A=90-100%
• B=80-89%
• C=70-79%
• D=60-69%
• F=59-0%
   

Records:

Please keep the school informed of any changes in health needs, home and work phone numbers, guardianship and address.  If you move to a new address, please provide the office with a new proof of residence. 

Schedules:

Once a student schedule is set we highly discourage making changes.  To consider a schedule change, the process below must include:

• Parent/Teacher/Student meeting to discuss current placement.
• Plan of action must first be in place.
• Implementation of action plan.
• Reconvene to discuss results after 30 school days, if necessary.
• Continue with the initial schedule or set up a meeting with administration to discuss potential change of schedule.

School Authority:

Off school grounds: School’s do have the Broad Authority to control and discipline students acts that are detrimental to the good order and best interests of the school, regardless if the acts are committed during school hours, non-school hours, or off campus grounds.  When the safety of students is compromised, school-based discipline clearly extends to activities beyond the school grounds, and school authorities may discipline pupils for out of school misconduct having a direct effect on school, students, and/or staff.

School Pictures:

School pictures will be in the fall and the spring.  Re-takes will only take place in the fall. There will be several packages that you may choose from. Our school will receive a portion of the sales price, thus school pictures benefit both the family and our school.

Security Cameras:

Cameras have been installed around campus and are checked regularly for student safety.

Skateboards, Skates, Heelys:

For safety reasons, they are not allowed on the campus.
 

Snacks:

Children generally get hungry mid-morning. Each teacher will send home a note explaining how snacks are done in their classroom.  This should be a healthy snack that is quickly eaten, such as crackers, fruit roll-ups, raisins, or fresh fruit. The district has a wellness guideline policy. It is up to each teacher’s discretion as to whether they will allow colored drinks in class (Gatorade, Powerade, coffee drinks, etc) . We want to maintain the beauty of our campus. Spilled drinks can cause carpet stains. Water is the preferred drink in classrooms. 
**Students are not allowed to receive food via delivery services (i.e. Grubhub, UberEats etc.).
 

Spirit Day Events:

Several social events are planned throughout the school year and will be announced in advance.  Students may be out of dress code on designated planned days such as school fundraisers, student council events, or other activities.  A notice will be sent home and students are expected to follow the guidelines during these events.
 

Student Check In/ Check Out:

If a student is late, they must be signed in to the office by a parent or legal guardian. This includes walking students. If a student needs to leave early, a note needs to be sent in the morning with the student. We try to discourage students from leaving early, as we strive to maximize learning time and it disrupts the classroom. Additionally, if a student is to be signed out by a parent or guardian, photo identification is required.  

Student Hours:

Regular days: 6:50 a.m. - 2:05 p.m. 

Early Release Wednesdays: 6:50 a.m. - 1:05 p.m.

Half Days: 6:50 a.m  - 12:00 p.m.
 

Supplies:

We will have a list of school supplies that we ask your child to bring to school for use in the classroom. You can obtain a copy of the supply lists from the office at the time of enrollment, on the SUSD district website. If you are unable to bring school supplies, please contact the teacher so that supplies can be provided.

Tax Credit Donation:

We have an opportunity to provide extracurricular programs for our students through tax donations. To claim your Arizona State Tax Credit, just make a donation in an amount you feel comfortable contributing.  Whatever amount you give will be offset by a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for the applicable tax year--up to $400 per tax return for joint filing ($200 for single filing)! The schools and programs you support are entirely your choice.  A tax donation for Wrightson Ridge School  may be completed online or at the District Administration office.
 

Technology:

The mobile computer lab offers an opportunity for students to learn skills and knowledge in computer applications such as creating projects, keyboarding, graphics, writing documents, research, spreadsheets, computer terminology, and school systems.  Parents must review the Authorized User Policy (AUP) with their child when registering their child for school in order to use the school computers.  Using the school hardware and software is a privilege and unauthorized use may result in disciplinary action.

Tardiness:

Being tardy is a distraction to students and teachers and may affect their academics over time, so it is essential that students are on time.  Tardiness counts towards truancy. Parents/guardians must sign their students in after 7:20 AM.  The following consequences will be enforced, per quarter, for all tardies. 

• 4th tardy: lunch detention and a phone call to the parent/guardian. 
• Middle School students will serve lunch detention the same day as the infraction for tardies accrued during passing periods and parents will be notified.
• Additional consequences will be applied for excessive tardiness. 

Transportation Changes – Students:

Parents should establish a permanent schedule from the 1st day of school. Parents must send a note with their child in the morning for a change in transportation.

• If there is a change in bus routes, or if a student is riding the bus for only one day, the parent must contact the transportation office at Ext. 1188 for approval.

Last minute changes in transportation will only be allowed in cases of emergencies. 

• All changes must be made by 1:00 PM (12:00 PM Wednesdays) at the latest.
• Parents will be expected to create a transportation routine for their students and keep changes to a minimum.  
• The office does not allow transportation changes, including early pickup from the office, during the last 30 minutes of the school day, unless prior arrangements were made.  

Toys: 

Bringing toys to school is discouraged. They distract children from learning.  Some teachers allow them for “Show and Tell” but they will need to be kept in your child’s backpack. The district and the school are not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Truancy:

It is very important that your child comes to school every day.  We are learning new concepts every day and children who miss a lot of school fall behind.  Coming to school regularly will set the precedence for your child’s future educational success.  Please see additional Truancy information under the “A” – Absences section.

Vision:

Empowering the Leaders of Our Future
 

Website: 

Visit Wrightson Ridge School’s website home by clicking on the following link. School information and upcoming events will be available on this website. You may also visit the main SUSD website by clicking on the following link.

Withdrawing From School:

As per Arizona regulations, parents/guardians are required to officially withdraw a student if that student is leaving the district. You must come to the office to fill out a withdrawal form. Student records will not be released until the student is officially withdrawn.     
 

Writing on Self, Others, Clothing, or ID:

This is not allowed. If a student has writing on his/her person, they will be asked to wash it off in the health office. If the student has writing on their clothing, they will be asked to change clothing in the health office, and if the student ID has writing obscuring the picture and/or barcode of their school issued I.D., they will be required to purchase a new ID.     
 

eXcellence:

At Wrightson Ridge we “Lead with Excellence!” in all that we do.
 

Younger Siblings:

Parents with younger children are asked to please leave them at home when volunteering at school.
 

ZZZs:

It is important for your child to get plenty of rest. No matter what grade your child is in, setting and keeping a bedtime is a wonderful gift you can give to your child.  It will help them to be alert and ready to learn each day!