RUMSEY HALL SCHOOL

PARENT AND STUDENT

HANDBOOK

2023-2024

MISSION AND PHILOSOPHY

Rumsey Hall School is guided by its distinct mission.  The following statement of purpose echoes the sentiment first stated by the School’s founder, Lillias Rumsey Sanford, in the year 1900.

Rumsey Hall School is committed to a whole child approach to education and believes that teaching academics and teaching an attitude of mind are of equal importance. The School emphasizes effort as a criterion for success and is dedicated to helping each child develop toward his or her maximum stature as an educated person, a successful member of a family, and a contributing member of a community.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PARENT AND STUDENT HANDBOOK

Rumsey Hall expects that all parents and students will read this Handbook and use it as a resource for important information about the school, our values and community expectations.  While the policies and procedures included in our Handbook set forth our general expectations, the School reserves the right to modify its rules and procedures throughout the year to continue to act in the best interest of those in our community.  In keeping with our support of a diverse community, Rumsey Hall abides by all applicable federal and state laws and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic, including race, color, religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry and/or disability.

ACADEMICS

Upper School

The Upper School, IVth-VIIth Forms (6-9 grades), has a departmentalized academic program.  Students take English, math, history and science.  In addition, a student may take Spanish, French, Latin, or Language Skills.  Students also take Co-Curriculars which are term-based offerings in creative arts, performing arts, technology, and Social-Emotional Learning. Advisor/advisee, Form and Club meetings and supervised study halls are also a part of the school day.  Students in the VIIth Form have the option to apply for a seat in one of four Signature Programs offered at the school.  They also have the ability to select elective co curricular offerings to enrich their program. Extra Help is available during the regular academic week and at other times as arranged by the teacher and student. Classes are held Monday through Friday.

Honors Courses

Honors courses are offered only to VIIth Form students who have demonstrated the ability to do superior work. Admission to these courses is based on a student’s application to the course, teachers' recommendations, standardized test scores and class grades.  Honors courses are offered in English, mathematics (Algebra II) science (Biology), French IV, Spanish IV and Latin Delta.

Lower School        

The Lower School, Pre-Kindergarten through IIIrd Form (5th grade), is held in self-contained classrooms located on the lower level of Sanford House, in the J. Seward Johnson Sr. Fine Arts Center,  and in the Garassino classroom building.

English, reading, math, and social studies are taught by the homeroom teachers.  World language or language skills and classes in STEM, music, art, physical education, health, and library and information literacy are part of each week’s schedule. Classroom meetings take place three times per week and focus on character and SEL.  The Lower School meets as a community two mornings a week in the music room at 8:00 a.m. and recess periods are scheduled each morning and afternoon.

Classes are held Monday through Friday. Enrichment activities are offered from 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. Monday through Friday.  Attendance at these enrichment programs is required for boarders and optional for day students.  

ACADEMIC INFORMATION

Graduation Requirements

In order to receive a graduation diploma from Rumsey Hall, a student must complete the prescribed course of study that generally includes English, mathematics, a world language or Language Skills, history, science, and tem based co-curricular courses. Students in VIIth Form must pass all of their courses in order to receive a diploma.  In the lower forms a student may be required to make up a failed course in order to be promoted into the next form.  In these cases, the student must repeat the course in an approved summer program.  Students must continue to be enrolled at Rumsey Hall at the time of commencement to be eligible for a diploma.

Homework

Upper School students are usually given out-of-class assignments for every academic course each day. When a student is having difficulty with effort or organization, the School may require teachers and study hall proctors to initial an Effort or Achievement Card in order to provide daily feedback to the student.  Homework assignments are posted online each day.  Lower School students have an increasing amount of homework as they progress from Pre-Kindergarten to IIIrd Form.

Extra Help

Extra help sessions are scheduled during the academic week for the Upper School students to reinforce the lesson covered that day or offer extra challenge. This can be at the teacher’s or the student's request. Students who do not show up for extra help are reported as absent and may earn a minus for missing this commitment. Extra help is available throughout the week in the Lower School at the discretion of the teachers.  

Tutoring

Parents of Upper School children wishing to have their child tutored should contact the Associate Head of School. Parents of Lower School children should contact the Director of the Lower School.

The Grading System

• Report Cards are published for students in Ist-VIIth Forms every two weeks.
• Each course grade is recorded as a percentage score compiled from homework, quizzes, tests, papers, projects and class participation at the discretion of the teacher.
• Students, faculty, and parents are also able to keep track of individual student performance by viewing the course gradebook which is on the portal.

• At the end of the year, students in Ist - VIIth Form receive a yearly grade, which is the average of the three-term grades in each course.

• In the Upper School, teachers write personalized comments and/or have individual parent-teacher conferences for students at the end of each term. In the Lower School, end of year narratives are written at the closure of the school year.
• Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, Pre-Primes and Primes do not receive percentage or effort grades.

The Effort System

• Each child is evaluated on his/her effort every week.
• A student can earn a "+", which indicates exceptional effort, an “S” for satisfactory effort,  or a "-", which indicates a lapse in effort.

• A student who does not receive any minuses earns a place on the Effort List for that week.
• An Upper School student who earns four plusses, three of which must come from their core academic courses, is honored by being named on the Dean’s List for that week. In the Lower School, a Ist-IIIrd Form student must earn five or more plusses, two of which must come from either Reading, English, or Mathematics, to be named on the Dean’s List for that week.

• "A student who earns a "-" is off the Effort List for that week. Upper School students that are off the Effort List  must attend Extra Help study hall that week.

AI Policy

AI technology has become increasingly prevalent in many industries, including education. While AI can be a powerful tool for research, analysis, and other tasks, it is important to use it ethically and responsibly. Here are some general guidelines:

• Ethical use: Students should use AI tools in an ethical manner, meaning that they should not use AI to cheat, plagiarize, or engage in any other academic misconduct. They should also respect the privacy and intellectual property of others when using AI.
• Academic integrity: Students should be aware that the use of AI does not excuse them from academic integrity responsibilities. They should ensure that they use AI tools as supplementary to their own knowledge and skills, and not as a replacement for them.
• Responsible use: Students should use AI tools responsibly, meaning that they should use them for legitimate academic purposes only and should not use them to harm others or engage in any illegal activities.
• Data privacy: Students should be aware of the data privacy policies of the AI tools they are using, and ensure that they do not share any personal or sensitive information with the tool or the provider.
• Transparency: Students should be aware of the limitations and biases of the AI tools they are using, and should disclose the use of AI tools in any academic work they submit.
• Proper citation: Students should properly cite any AI tools or algorithms they use in their academic work, just as they would cite any other source of information.

Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action. If you have any questions or concerns about the policy or ethical use of AI, please ask your advisor, teacher, Dean of Students, Director of Lower School, or Associate Head of School.

Academic Incentives

• Generally, teachers require students to correct failing papers (below 60%) and to re-submit them for a higher grade.
• In the Upper School, a student who earns two or more minuses in a given week will earn an Effort Card.  A student with an Effort Card who fails his/her work on a given day must attend afternoon study hall to make up for the missed work.
• Under certain circumstances any student may receive an achievement card.

Effort System Regulations

To stay on the Effort List in the Lower School, Ist-IIIrd Form students must come prepared to class with all necessary materials and assignments; students must be actively engaged in classroom discussions and activities, be respectful of peer comments, and student work must show care and effort. In the Upper School, a student must attend each class with his or her proper and complete assignment as well as the materials necessary to participate fully in class: textbook, paper, pencil and pen and any other items required by the teacher.  Anyone receiving a cheating infraction will automatically be taken off the Effort List and full disciplinary action will be taken. A student may earn a minus for the inappropriate use of technology in class or in study hall.

Upper School students who are off the Effort List in two or more courses receive an “Effort Card.”  They must present it to each of their teachers and study hall proctors at the beginning of each class or study hall for that week.  At the end of the period, the teacher will indicate on the card whether or not that day’s homework and classwork was completed satisfactorily.  Study hall proctors will indicate on the card whether or not the student made good use of the study hall.  Students who have earned an effort card must submit it to the administrator supervising lunch each day.  Missing or incomplete cards and cards signed with a “no” for any course or study hall result in the students having to attend Afternoon Study Hall that day instead of athletics. Students with cards, who have athletic contests, may participate only with permission from the Associate Head of School, Dean of Students, or Head of School.  

Honors Study Hall

Seniors may be eligible to be excused from study halls during the academic day by the Study Hall Proctor.  To earn this privilege a senior must have no report of having misused his/her study hall time, must be on the Effort List and achieve at least an 80% average in each subject or be on the Dean's List. Seniors may spend their study period in a quiet study in the place of their choice on campus as approved by the Dean of Students. If choosing to go to the library, Honors students must sign-in on the Honors Sign-in sheet located on a clipboard in the library.  Honors Study Hall is a privilege and any student's name can be removed from the list by the Dean of Students or Academic Dean. This privilege does not apply to the evening study halls.

Academic Awards

Students in Ist-VIIth Forms who earn an average above 90% receive academic distinction at the end of each term.

Dean's List Prizes

Ist-IIIrd Form students who have made the Dean’s List 90% of the time and students in IVth-VIIth Form who have made the Dean's List every week in the term are awarded a certificate at the end of term Awards Ceremony.

Student of The Month

• Monthly recognition is given to IVth-VIIth Form students in categories relating to effort, academics, athletics, community service, technology, character, and the arts.
• Monthly recognition is given to Ist-IIIrd Form students in effort, academics, athletics/physical education, music, art, reading, prefecting, and technology.
• Monthly recognition is given to Pre-Primes-Primes students in effort, and reading.

Other Awards - See Commencement Prizes

Classroom, Study Hall, and Library Procedures

• Students should not enter a classroom until the teacher arrives.
• Students arriving late to class must have a note explaining the reason.          
• Students should stay seated unless given permission by the teacher.
• Students should stand when an adult enters the room unless a test is in process.
• Hats should be removed when entering a classroom or a building.
• The bell signals that classes should end.  However, the teacher, not the bell, dismisses the student.
• At the end of class, the floor should be free of papers, chairs should be pushed under desks and the rows of desks should be straight.
• The rules that apply to classes also apply to study halls and the library.

Study Hall

Upper School Study Hall is a class, and every place Study Hall is held is considered a classroom.  The purpose of a study hall is to promote independent academic work.  The independent learning skills that are discussed and taught in the individual academic disciplines are reinforced here.  To this end, quiet and respect for the rights of other students will be maintained at all times. To achieve this goal, students must adhere to the following:

• Students are to take care of all personal needs and wants prior to the beginning of Study Hall (i.e., bathroom visits).
• All materials for Study Hall should be obtained before class.  This means all books, assignments, pens, pencils, secondary reading, etc., should be at the student's workspace when the Study Hall starts.
• Students are required to have an independent reading book

        in their possession during all study halls.  Students are required

        to read their selected books when their homework assignments

        have been completed.

• Students not working on assignments or not reading quietly may be  

        taken off of the Effort List by the Study Hall Proctor.

• Students must work at a desk or study carrel.
• Students needing assistance in schoolwork may receive help from the Study Hall Proctor.  
• Before Study Hall is over, students should put away their books, pick up papers, put clothing in the lost and found, and straighten desk rows.
• Study Hall ends when the Study Hall Proctor dismisses students.

Library Procedures

• Students are to follow all study hall policies and procedures.
• After receiving permission from the study hall proctor and signing out using the Library Sign-up sheet, a student may use the library for purposeful work. Purposeful work consists of an academic assignment or reading for pleasure.
• Students are to be respectful of everything and everyone in the library.
• Disruptive students will be asked to leave.
• Seniors with honors privileges must sign the Library Sign-up sheet (with a specific purpose) before going into the library.

Dorm Study Hall

• Evening study hall runs from 7:00 to 8:30.
• All materials for study hall should be obtained before the start of the study hall. This means all books, assignments, pens, pencils, etc. should be at the student's desk when study hall starts.
• Students should work at a desk or table, either in their rooms, in the common room or the main study hall.

Student Obligations Before a Planned Absence or Long Weekend

A student should speak to each of his/her teachers prior to a planned absence in order to learn what work he/she will miss. It is customary for teachers to require students to complete the work they will miss before they leave school. This prevents a child from being behind in his/her work when he/she returns to school, and it also helps the teachers with their planning.  A student who fails to hand in his or her work as discussed with the instructor will be off the Effort List.

Student Obligations After an Unplanned Absence

A student who has missed classes must meet with each of his or her teachers to obtain extra help in understanding the material studied during the absence.  Each teacher will determine what material the student is accountable for depending on the course and the situation.  

Excessive Absences

Rumsey Hall School believes that a pattern of absences can be detrimental to a student’s learning and to their commitment to our community. Excessive absence, excused or unexcused, may result in loss of credit for the year in the course(s) the absences occur. In the Upper School, the Associate Head of School, Dean of Students, and Head of School, will make the final determination about course credit. The Dean of Students Office will make the final determination of whether or not an absence is or shall be excused. In the Lower School, the Director of Lower School and Head of School, will make the final determination about course credit.

If the student accrues excessive medical absences, the School may also determine that it is appropriate for the student to be placed on Medical Leave. Rumsey Hall School, in consultation with the family and appropriate medical professionals, determines whether a student is eligible for Medical Leave and when a student may return from Medical Leave. Students who accrue excessive absences, both inside and outside the classroom, may not be recommended for continuation at Rumsey. Excessive absence is defined as 15% of any given academic or school commitment, or approximately 18 specific class or commitment meetings for the entire year, or 6 absences per trimester.

Parent Conferences

Upper School Parent Conferences are held during the Fall and Spring Parents’ Night and Parents’ Day. Lower School parent-teacher conferences take place mid-fall and at the end of the Fall, Winter and Spring Terms. Parent conferences may also be arranged at any time by contacting the appropriate teacher, Department Chair, Associate Head of School, or the Director of Lower School.  Please schedule conferences in advance by email or by calling the school office at (860) 868-0535.

School Holidays

The Mondays following Fall and Spring Parent Weekends are Holidays. This is a day off for students. Boarders must return to campus by 7:00 p.m. and classes resume the next day. Please refer to the academic calendar for this year’s dates. There will be fun activities planned for boarding students who choose to stay on campus for the weekend.

Accommodations

Students seeking an academic accommodation or modification to any of the School’s academic policies as a result of a diagnosed disability should contact the Learning Skills Department Chair, Associate Head of School, Director of Secondary School placement, or the Director of Lower School as appropriate.  To be eligible for consideration of an accommodation, a student must have confirmation that his/her disability substantially limits a major life activity, such as learning.  Students should provide the appropriate documentation, including a complete and current copy of any relevant testing, evaluation, and/or diagnosis of this disability.  If the information is insufficient, the School may request additional information.  All decisions regarding accommodations are made on an individualized basis considering the nature of the disability, the information available, the reasonableness of the requested accommodation, and whether such accommodation would fundamentally alter the nature of the School’s programs.

SCHOOL POLICIES, STANDARDS AND DISCIPLINE

Throughout Rumsey Hall's long history, students, faculty and administrators have all contributed to formulating certain standards and policies, which have become a part of the School's basic philosophy.  The Board of Trustees supports these standards and policies.  In order to become a member of the community, each student must learn and accept these standards.

Many of the rules are based on common courtesy. Honesty, Kindness and Respect are the common values by which student behavior is measured.  Students are responsible for their behavior at all times while they are enrolled at Rumsey Hall, whether a boarding or day student, on or off campus, while school is in session or during vacation.  Any student who violates a school rule or expectations, or otherwise acts in any way that is prejudicial to the School's best interests, infringes on the rights of others, or disrupts or harms our school community, is subject to discipline, up to and including dismissal from school.

                       ___________________________________________

"HONESTY, KINDNESS AND RESPECT

ARE THE COMMON VALUES BY WHICH

STUDENT BEHAVIOR IS MEASURED."

                         ___________________________________________

When a student breaks a school rule or policy, discipline may range from a mark or probation up to suspension or dismissal from the School.

All Upper and Lower School disciplinary incidents are handled on an individual basis, taking into account the record of the student involved, and the combined interests of the student and the School.

When a major school rule is broken in the Upper School, the Dean of Students typically must call a meeting of the Disciplinary Committee, which consists of the Head of School, Dean of Students, Associate Head of School. Any student called before the committee has the right to be accompanied by his or her advisor or another teacher. After a fair hearing in the Upper School, the Disciplinary Committee makes a recommendation to the Head of School or the Dean of Students. The Head of School makes a final decision after conferring with the Senior Committee (see pg. 11). In the Upper School, the Disciplinary Committee reserves the right to recommend probation, final warning, suspension or dismissal of any student who is involved in breaking a major school rule.  Probation carries with it certain restrictions to a student's freedom on and off campus.  The Disciplinary Committee assigns restrictions.  Final warning indicates that if a student violates any major school rule, the result will be suspension or dismissal. The School reserves the right to impose discipline outside of the Discipline Committee process in emergency situations, or other circumstances warranting immediate action and/or intervention, at the sole discretion of the Head of School.

In the Upper School, a student may also be asked to meet with the Senior Committee to discuss his/her behavior. The committee may make recommendations to the Dean of Students regarding appropriate consequences and discipline.  All final decisions, however, are determined by the Head of School.  

When a major school rule is broken in the Lower School, the Director of Lower School meets with members of the Lower School faculty, the student’s parents and the student to discuss disciplinary options that are in the best interest of the student and the School. 

The Dean of Students or Director of Lower School has the authority to determine clear, consistent consequences for all other specific offenses for Upper and Lower School students accordingly.

Under certain conditions, the medical or emotional well-being of a student may require a level of care not available at Rumsey Hall.  In these situations, a student may be required to withdraw from the School, permanently or temporarily, at the request of the School and under such terms as the School may prescribe.

MAJOR RULES

In addition to other rules and policies, the following is a list of behavior that the School considers to be most serious and which may lead to discipline, including dismissal:

• Drugs and alcohol- The use, possession or distribution of any form of drug or alcoholic beverage will subject the student to final warning, suspension or dismissal.  The deliberate misuse of legal drugs (prescribed medication) or substances is also grounds for final warning, suspension or dismissal.
• Computers and Technology - Rumsey Hall reserves the right to access students’ information including email, photographs, videos, files, etc. saved on computers and handheld devices, including cameras. Inappropriate use of computers, handheld devices, cameras, the school-wide intranet system or the Internet will be considered grounds for disciplinary action.  All students are required to sign a contract defining standards of appropriate use of computers, software, handheld devices, and cameras. 
• Smoking- The use or possession of any form of tobacco (cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, snuff, etc.), electronic smoking devices (vapes, e-cigs, etc.) or smoking materials (matches, lighters, pipes, incense, etc.) is prohibited and is considered grounds for probation, final warning, suspension or dismissal.
• E-cigarettes or other vaping devices are not permitted on campus.  If a student is found in possession of an e-cigarette, Juul or related items (such as pods, vape etc.) the items will be confiscated and the student’s room and possessions may be searched and the student will also be subject to drug testing.  If the student tests positive for drugs, or if there is other evidence of drug use or possession, it will be considered a violation of the School’s drug and alcohol policies. Non-drug related possession, use or other violations will be treated as a violation of the School’s tobacco/nicotine/smoking policy.
• Stealing and willful destruction of the property of others or conduct which is against the law, or affects the health and safety of others cannot be tolerated in an environment, which must be based largely on trust.  Therefore, such offenses are treated seriously and may result in probation, final warning, suspension or dismissal.
• Cheating or plagiarism - Complete integrity is expected from all Rumsey students.  Cheating and plagiarism are serious breaches of school standards and are handled severely.  Because Rumsey is a junior school, there is a strong obligation to educate students who are involved in the above-mentioned behavior.  Therefore, first offenders are handled with counseling.  Repeat offenses result in probation, final warning, suspension or dismissal.
• Lying, dishonesty or behavior that discredits the School – Repeated offenses may result in an appearance before the Disciplinary Committee.
• Students are not allowed in the rooms or hallways of dorms where they do not reside and are not permitted to engage in inappropriate sexual contact or behavior. Such offenses will result in probation, final warning, suspension or dismissal when the activity is consensual.
• Common Room – Students are not allowed in the common room of other dorms without a dorm parent present and must have permission from the dorm parent.
• Students are not allowed out of the dorm after lights out. Students are to stay in the dormitory after lights out.  Leaving the dorm after lights out and before wake-up is a serious offense and will be dealt with accordingly.
• Tampering with smoke alarms or any fire safety equipment jeopardizes the safety of others.  Each offense may result in an appearance before the Disciplinary Committee.
• Possession of dangerous items such as knives or firearms violates the culture and spirit of the school community and threatens the safety of others.  The consequence for any student who breaks this rule will most likely be suspension or dismissal.
• Weekend travel for boarding students needs to be submitted through the Orah app and approved no later than 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday. These leaves require parent/guardian permission and, if applicable, permission of a host. A leave submitted after 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday may not be approved unless special circumstances exist. The School will not approve leaves for students unless a family member or responsible adult, age 25 years or older, will be present. Overnight leaves taken to local homes may not exceed five students, including the host student. All overnight leaves begin after a student’s school commitments have been met.
• Riding in Vehicles. While under the jurisdiction of Rumsey Hall, a student may not ride in a car driven by a person under the age of 25 who is not an immediate relative or a person on the Rumsey Hall Staff unless cleared by the Dean of Students. Rumsey students cannot drive other students. Students may not use Uber or other rideshare services unless accompanied by an adult or given permission from an administrator.
• The Dean of Students reserves the right to refer an Upper School student to the Disciplinary Committee whose behavior and attitude are not in keeping with the spirit of the School.  Consequences for being referred to the Disciplinary Committee under these circumstances may include probation, final warning, suspension or dismissal. Evaluation and professional counseling are available for students upon request of parents or recommendation of faculty (with parental approval).

Other Rules

•  Meals - Students are required to attend all meals.

• Weekend Restrictions - Students may be restricted to campus on weekends for disciplinary reasons. Students on weekend restriction will not be permitted to take part in off-campus trips and may also have detention or work hours.
• Gum is not allowed on campus.
• Snowball throwing is not permitted at any time by any student.
• Unexcused Absences and deliberately cutting school appointments cannot be tolerated.  
• Up After Lights Out – Students found up after lights out will be turned into the Dean of Students or Director of Residential Life.
• Dismissal from Class- Students are expected to be positive contributors in each class. If the need arises for a student to be dismissed from class, the student will report immediately to the lower office and talk with an administrator. The teacher will call the student’s parent, or guardian, to discuss the dismissal from class. The student is taken off the Effort List and is required to attend detention that same day. Repeated occurrences will result in further disciplinary action. Study Hall is considered a class and is included in the above.
• Tardiness- Students are required to be on time to all school appointments and school obligations.
• Borrowing- Because of the wide variety of problems associated with lending and borrowing students' possessions, the School STRONGLY discourages both.  Although the Dean of Students will try to help establish responsibility in such matters, he must refer disputes concerning such problems to the parents of the students involved.
• Poor Language - Students are expected to use language that is respectful and acceptable to members of the school community.  Rude, disrespectful, or other poor language, including profanity, is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
• Graffiti is regarded as a lack of respect for others in the school community.  Students defacing other student's property or school property will face disciplinary action.
• Laser Pointers are not permitted at any time.         
• Dress- Improper dress will result in a dress report.
• Fireworks- Students shall not use or possess matches, fireworks or any other explosives or combustible materials.  
• Fire Safety - Students shall not tamper with fire alarms, fire extinguishers or other safety equipment.  Students violating this rule will most likely face the Disciplinary Committee.        
• Disrespect- Blatant disrespect of another member of the school community will not be tolerated.  It will be treated seriously and may result in probation, final warning, suspension or dismissal.
• Inappropriate Public Displays of Affection- The School realizes that students may have feelings of affection for other students but prohibits inappropriate public displays of affection, which may be offensive to other members of the school community. Any inappropriate social behavior will not be tolerated and will be dealt with by the Dean of Students or the Disciplinary Committee.

• Campus Safety- Students may not cut through the wooded areas when walking to the Upper Campus above Romford Road.  They must use paved roadways.
• Tattoos or Piercings-Students may not engage in tattooing or piercing of any kind while on campus due to safety, hygiene and appearance concerns.

• Hair Dying-Students may not dye their hair, or another student's hair, while on campus.
• Medications – Students for whom medications have been prescribed must report to the Health Center at the required times to receive them.  Since a student’s health and well-being is of primary concern, failure to report for medication is a serious matter.  Students are not allowed to keep possession of any medication, even if it is prescribed for them, as all medication must be kept in the Health Center.

• Over-the-counter Medications –  over-the- counter medications, dietary supplements, or substances to promote physical growth, are prohibited. Because Rumsey students are in the formative stages of their emotional and physical development, substances that alter the natural growth process, or that  are intended to enhance athletic performance, are not allowed.  
• Selling Items – Students may not sell any items to another student without the consent of both parents and the permission of the Dean of Students.
• Gambling – Students shall not engage in any form of gambling or betting.

Write Ups (Upper School)

• Any of the above infractions can result in write-ups (marks). These marks are accumulated through the Schools’ student management system, Orah. Accumulations of marks during any given term will lead to the following:
• A student accumulating marks will be required to attend work detail or detention hours in the afternoon in lieu of athletics, or over the weekend at the discretion of the Dean of Students’.
• A student who earns 10 or more write ups (school day infractions, dorm, behavioral) in a term may be brought before the full Disciplinary Committee for Living Outside the Spirit of the school and will face Probation, Final Warning, Suspension or Dismissal.

Work Detail/Detention

In the Upper School, the Dean of Students has the responsibility of assigning work detail or detention to students involved in a disciplinary situation or accumulation of marks.

• Disciplinary issues such as direct disobedience, lying and insolence can result in a work detail or detention that day. The amount of time on work detail or in detention is determined by the severity of the incident.
• Students will be assigned work detail or detention to work off accumulated marks.
• A student on work detail spends their afternoons doing odd jobs for the School. A student in detention spends their afternoon supervised in the main Study Hall.

ALLERGY POLICY

Rumsey Hall School is committed to providing a safe environment for our community members and protecting students with allergies from potential exposure to allergens that could trigger an allergic reaction.  The following steps are taken by Rumsey to ensure a safe campus.  Please note, we are not a nut-free facility.

• Identification and emergency care of students with allergies:  Rumsey Hall identifies students with allergies through the Magnus Health portal. Parents are expected to list all allergies and submit an Allergy Action Plan that is completed by their pediatrician for each allergy listed. In addition, parents are responsible for providing the school with emergency medications such as benadryl and/or an epipen in case of an allergic reaction.
• Communication with Rumsey Hall Staff: At the beginning of the school year, a list is  distributed to each staff member listing 1. Child’s name 2. Allergies 3. Emergency Allergy medications. The list is updated and distributed as needed.  Emergency allergy medications are given to teachers and coaches for field trips and sporting events.
• Communication with Parents: Parents are made aware if their child comes into contact with an allergen or if care is provided.  We ask parents to keep their child’s allergy list up to date with the School.
• Training for Staff: Rumsey Hall School provides training for staff on how to identify and respond to allergic reactions.  The training includes how to administer medications such as epinephrine.
• Prevention Measures: The dining hall is made aware of all student allergies.  The dining hall staff meet with each child individually at the beginning of the year to review food allergies. In addition, each food item available at meal times lists all allergen foods.
• Allergies in Dorms: All dorms have benadryl and epinephrine available at all times in case of an emergency.  Dorm parents and dorm students are made aware of members in their dorm with allergies.  Students are asked to be considerate of peers with allergies.  They are asked to keep allergens out of that student’s room and to share ingredient lists for any food they wish to share with the dorm.
• Accommodations for Students: Alternative snacks and food items are provided as needed for students with food allergies.  The School works with individual students if environmental allergies are present.

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY  

While new technologies and social media outlets can be powerful educational tools, students should be aware that their actions online are a reflection not only of themselves but of the Rumsey Hall community as well. Therefore, they should always be cognizant of their digital presence and be respectful with their online interactions. Students need to be mindful of their conduct at all times, not just when they are at school.

Be aware that each social media site sets its own minimum age requirements. Students are expected to adhere to the minimum age requirements as set by the site. While many social media sites have set the minimum age at 13, some have set the minimum at 17 or 18. Please check, and adhere to, the minimum age requirement of each site you join to make sure you are of age.

During the academic day, electronic devices and online social media are to be used for legitimate educational purposes only. The extent to which these tools may be used is up to the individual discernment of the instructor. Students are to comply with their teachers’  instructions and to behave in accordance with the policies and practices of Rumsey Hall. With regard to social media, students serve as representatives of RHS and therefore should be aware that interacting with each other on social media is no different than interacting with each other face to face. This certainly includes emailing and texting content.

Students may not set up individual social media accounts that represent the school or any aspect of the school such as a specific team or student organizations, and should further not ever use the school’s likeness or branding without expressed permission.  Marketing for the school in this way will be left to the Advancement department.

Even in their hours outside of the classroom, the dorm, and while off campus, students should at all times exercise good judgment and adhere to the standards and practices of the school when engaging with this media. With regard to social media and digital devices, students are at all times representatives of Rumsey Hall and should therefore:

• Be aware that activities on social media may, with or without your knowledge or consent, be visible to current, past, or prospective students, parents, colleagues, community members, high school officials, or prospective employers.

• Never use computing technologies to harass other people or to violate any of the Rumsey standards of conduct. No one may use computing technologies for obscene, threatening, abusive, or annoying purposes. Users may not access or transmit materials that promote pornography; profanity; gender, racial, religious, or other biases; or any other material counter to Rumsey Hall’s philosophy and expectations.

Never “friend” a faculty or staff member on their personal social media site.

Never take a photo or video of another member of the community (student, faculty, staff, etc.) without their permission. Never post a photo or video of a member of the community to any site or group chat without their permission.

Failure to adhere to the Rumsey Hall social media policy will result in appropriate disciplinary and/or legal action.

HARASSMENT

The school community values are honesty, kindness and respect. Living by these values maintains a healthy school climate. Rumsey Hall is enriched by the diversity of its members.  The School, which aspires to respect individual differences, believes each member of the community has the right to participate fully without harassment. Rumsey Hall seeks to educate both students and faculty about harassment and to work together toward a greater understanding of the individual differences, which makes Rumsey a more diverse, more interesting, and stronger community.  Demeaning emails, postings, statements or materials, uninvited physical advances, intimidation, or hazing and threats undermine a community that promotes emotional, physical, and intellectual self-respect. Anyone who feels harassed should report the situation to a school official.  When situations are reported, the offended individual will be consulted, and the School will respond to the situation.

Rumsey Hall School is committed to maintaining a positive environment for its students, faculty and all members of our community.  We do not tolerate harassment or discrimination of any kind by or toward any student, faculty, employee or visitor to the campus on the basis of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity of expression, race, color, religion, national origin, age or any other protected class status under applicable law.  Such behavior creates a harmful school environment and may be a violation of law. Verbal, non-verbal, or physical conduct by a student or any member of the school community relating to an individual’s protected class status (e.g. sex, race, religion etc.) which results in an intimidating, hostile or offensive school environment is prohibited. Any student who engages in sexual or other forms of protected class harassment may be subject to disciplinary action, up to expulsion.

Bullying - Bullying is a repeated act or communication (verbal, electronic, or written), including repeated physical acts or gestures, by one or more students directed against another student.  While any mean spirited behavior violates school rules, bullying is distinct in that it is repeated conduct that causes physical or emotional harm; damages property; places another student in reasonable fear of harm; creates an intimidating or hostile environment for a student that affects the learning environment of the School; infringes on the rights of another student; or poses a substantial disruption to the educational process of the School.  Bullying includes cyberbullying, meaning any act of bullying through the use of the Internet or other technology.  Bullying is considered a serious offense and grounds for discipline.  Any student who feels he/she has been subjected to bullying, should report concerns to the Dean of Students or the Director of Lower School.

Sexual Harassment – Is conduct that is sexual in nature, is unwelcome and denies or limits a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the School’s educational program.  Sexual harassment can be verbal, nonverbal or physical.  Examples of sexual conduct include, but are not limited to:

• Suggestive or lewd remarks
• Touching of a sexual nature
• Telling sexual or dirty jokes
• Spreading sexual rumors
• Circulating or showing emails or websites of a sexual nature
• Retaliation for lodging a sexual harassment complaint
• Displaying or distributing sexually explicit drawings, pictures or written materials
• Sexual assault

Any student who feels he/she has been subjected to sexual harassment, should report concerns to the Dean of Students or the Director of the Lower School.

Inappropriate Adult Behavior - Faculty and school employees are expressly prohibited from initiating or having any sexual contact and/or romantic relationship with any student, whether occurring on or off-campus, at any time. Any student who feels he/she has been subjected to unwanted attention or inappropriate communications or contact, including sexual contact of any kind, (including sexual assault) should report such concerns to the Head of School, Director of Lower School, or Dean of Students.

Rumsey Hall Volunteer(s) - Child Abuse or Neglect Reporting Policy and Procedure

The Child Protection Act specifically requires school officials, employees, and volunteers working for a school-sponsored activity to report (i) known or suspected cases of child abuse or neglect (including emotional, physical, or sexual abuse) or (ii) circumstances which might reasonably result in abuse or neglect.

Reporting child abuse or neglect is a difficult yet extremely important situation for everyone involved. Rumsey Hall School has created this policy and procedure in order to assist in appropriate handling of these situations. Thus, volunteers are asked to follow these procedures.

Definition of Child Abuse: Child abuse is any act or omission which threatens the health or welfare of a child, regardless of whether it is physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. "Physical abuse" may be exhibited by evidence of skin bruising, bleeding, malnutrition, burns, fracture of any bone, or soft tissue swelling. "Sexual abuse" includes any touching of a child's private parts (the "swimsuit area"), whether above or below clothes, for the purpose of sexual gratification. "Emotional abuse" is the identifiable and substantial impairment (or substantial risk of impairment) of a child's intellectual and psychological functioning or development.

Definition of Neglect: Neglect is considered to be failure on the part of a child’s caretaker to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, supervision, or medical treatment.

Reporting Procedures: If a volunteer suspects abuse or neglect, or observes circumstances which might reasonably result in abuse or neglect, he or she must report it immediately to the Head of School, who will then notify social services or assist the employee or volunteer in doing so. Such reporting must be done verbally over the telephone and in writing, and shall be documented on the appropriate “Child Abuse Reporting” form. All reports must be filed as soon as practicable after learning of the abuse or neglect. In most circumstances, the verbal report should be made within 24 hours and the written report within 48 hours.

Child Abuse/Neglect Files: The Head of School keeps a child abuse/neglect file on all students for whom a suspicion of abuse/neglect has been filed. Such documentation may never be stored in teacher or student cumulative files.

Volunteer Obligations: It is not the responsibility of volunteers working at a school-sponsored activity to try to determine the cause of the suspected abuse or neglect, nor is it the responsibility of volunteers to prove that the child has been abused or neglected. A person who reports child abuse or neglect in good faith is immune from civil or criminal liability. In the event that a volunteer working at a school-sponsored activity suspects that another staff member or volunteer is the perpetrator of child abuse or neglect, a report must be filed and submitted to the Head of School immediately upon learning of the abuse or neglect. The Head of School will respond to the incident both as a suspected child abuse case and as a disciplinary issue.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

Senior Committee

This organization consists of seniors elected by the senior class. The Senior Committee provides leadership to the student government.  It also advises the Head of School and Dean of Students in disciplinary decisions.

Student Government

IVth-VIIth Forms select at least two students from each form to serve on the student government. This body, in conjunction with the Senior Committee, helps to serve the student body in a wide variety of areas.

Lower School Student Council

The Lower School Student Council is a forum that fosters student leadership, empowers students to make change, and values student input. Council members work to develop special programs, community service opportunities, and spirit activities for their school community. Students take on leadership roles in their classrooms and help to maintain a healthy Lower School community through preventive problem solving. All students in the Ist-IIIrd Forms may take part.

AFTERNOON ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

The Lower School Afternoon Enrichment Program provides three seasons of athletics, arts, and academic offerings in Pre-Kindergarten – IIIrd Form daily from 3:15 – 4:15 p.m. Activities vary seasonally and participation is encouraged but optional. IIIrd Form students may try out for Upper School sports teams.  

ATHLETICS 

Each Upper School student at Rumsey is required to participate in afternoon athletics, Monday through Friday and sometimes on weekends. Rumsey Hall provides the equipment and uniforms for most sports, however certain athletes will be expected to have their own gear.  The School does not supply athletic footwear. Please purchase any necessary footwear and/or equipment before the start of each season. It is a New England Private School Athletic Association recommendation that only molded cleats of plastic or rubber be used in competition.

Friday and Weekend Athletic Commitments

Rumsey Athletics generally compete in contests on Wednesdays and Fridays. In the event of a Friday or Saturday game, the following policy will prevail: A player has an obligation to his/her team and must keep his/her commitment to that team and play in the contest if it is scheduled for Friday or Saturday. Weekends may be taken ONLY AFTER the game is over, and transportation can be arranged.  Varsity athletes must attend all team commitments in order to earn a Varsity letter for the season.  Exceptions may be made for special circumstances if agreed upon by the Athletic Director and Dean of Students in advance.

Athletic Excuses

Athletic excuses may be issued only by the school nurse, athletic trainer, or doctor.  They MUST be in writing and brought to the attention of the Coach and the Athletic Director.  The athlete will spend that afternoon in the Health Center, study hall, or on the athletic field watching his/her team.

Varsity Club

To become a member of the Varsity Club, an athlete must earn six (6) varsity letters during his/her career at Rumsey Hall. A varsity letter may be earned if an athlete is selected captain of a “B” team or if he/she receives a varsity letter for contributions to a varsity team sport. After earning six (6) varsity letters, a plaque is presented at the end of term sports awards to honor this outstanding achievement.

Rumsey’s Code of Ethics and Conduct

As a basic principle, Rumsey believes that the lessons learned from fairly played athletics, whether interscholastic or not, and including games and practices, are of benefit to the students.  The purpose of this Code of Ethics and Conduct is to define "fairly played" and to provide guidelines for athletes, coaches, and spectators.

Proper Conduct and Good Sportsmanship - At the heart of this matter lie several terms which are often hard to define - yet no more important task confronts teachers and coaches than to set standards that are fair and honorable.  Throughout this Code, when such terms as "proper conduct" and "good sportsmanship" are mentioned, they refer to such standards as these:

• Treat other persons as you know they should be treated, and as you wish them to fairly treat you.
• Regard the rules of the game as agreements, the spirit or letter of which should not be evaded or broken.
• Treat officials and opponents with respect.
• Accept absolutely and without quarrel the final decision of any official.
• Honor visiting teams and spectators as your own guests and treat them as such.  Likewise, behave yourself as an honored guest when visiting another school.
• Be gracious in victory and defeat; learn especially to take defeat well.
• Be cooperative as well as competitive.
• Remember that actions on and off the field reflect on the School.

Purpose of Athletics at Rumsey - Athletics exists primarily as an essential part of the student's full education.  As an educational process, they serve these purposes:

• To teach and instruct the rules, fundamentals, and skills of various individual and team sports; to provide physical training and an outlet for youthful energy.
• To provide healthy competition and cooperation within and between schools, thus instilling in each student the best principles of good sportsmanship.
• To develop the other aspects of good sportsmanship, which will best serve each student’s education.
• To maintain the spirit of true amateur competition.

Guidelines for Coaches

• Coaches shall remember that school athletics are primarily part of each student's education, not a goal in themselves.  Coaches shall use athletics to help each student achieve the standards listed previously.
• Coaches shall assist each student toward developing his or her fullest potential in athletics.
• Coaches shall remember that the behavior of a team can reflect their own manner, attitudes, temper, and approach to athletics, and shall conduct themselves in a way that brings credit to themselves, their team, their school, and their sport.
• Coaches shall be responsible not only for coaching their teams, but also for running games, dealing fairly and properly with officials, meeting before and after games with visiting coaches and players, and maintaining objectivity and a sense of balance commensurate with good sportsmanship. Coaches shall in particular preserve the tradition of shaking hands after games and matches.

Guidelines for Players 

• Players shall at all times represent themselves and their school with honor, proper conduct, and good sportsmanship. They shall understand that competitive rivalries are encouraged, but that disrespect for opponents is unsportsmanlike and lessens the value of the rivalries. They shall confine the competitiveness of the game to the field, and in particular, behave properly on the sidelines and in the locker rooms both before and after games.
• They shall comply fully with the rulings of the officials.  In no way, either by voice, action, or gesture, shall they demonstrate their dissatisfaction with the decisions.
• Players who are ejected from interscholastic games for “unsportsmanlike conduct” or other flagrant behavior will forfeit their eligibility to play in the next regularly scheduled interscholastic game or tournament played in that sport.
• Players will not deface property or remove equipment of any kind from their own or another school.

Guidelines for Spectators

• Whether students, faculty, parents, alumni, or friends, spectators bear important responsibilities to the School for the atmosphere and conduct of games, whether home or away.
• Spectators should watch games from those areas defined by each school as spectator areas.  They must not run up and down sidelines, call to players, coaches, or officials in an unsportsmanlike manner, go onto the field of play, or deface property.  Any action which interferes with the ability of coaches, players, and officials to do their best is unacceptable.
• Faculty members should remember that their responsibilities for student discipline and behavior extend to disciplining and controlling students who misbehave as spectators.
• The use of alcohol and illegal drugs should not be associated with any athletic event.

These are the standards, which Rumsey Hall expects all athletes, coaches, and spectators to meet.

ATHLETICS BY TERM

Rumsey Hall Athletics offers a variety of competitive and non-competitive athletic options each term (Fall, Winter, and Spring). Please reference the Rumsey Hall Athletics website to review offerings.

BOARDING STUDENT INFORMATION

Allowances and Money

Students are allowed to have small amounts of money AT THEIR OWN RISK. THERE IS NO NEED FOR STUDENTS TO HAVE LARGE SUMS OF “EMERGENCY” MONEY IN THE DORMITORY. Sums of money over $40 are to be deposited in the student’s account, which is run by the Business Office.  Students may withdraw a maximum of $20.00 per week. If there is a need for extra money, please email permission to Gena Newman at gnewman@rumseyhall.org in the Business Office no later than Wednesday of that week. Students may withdraw money from the account only at scheduled times on Friday each week. The School WILL NOT become involved in disputes concerning borrowing and lending money.

Dormitories

Rumsey Hall’s primary consideration is the welfare of the students.  Therefore the following rules concerning health, cleanliness and respect for property apply:

• Carefully follow the PACKING LIST and DRESS CODE. All personal items must fit into the dorm furniture provided.
• Excessive amounts of food create problems with cleanliness and in monitoring proper eating habits. Students are not allowed to order food for delivery (i.e. pizza, Chinese food).
• Students should take care not to overload electric outlets. Refrigerators, hot plates, hot pots, electric blankets, heaters, halogen lamps and electric irons ARE NOT permitted.
• Students are not permitted to return to their dorms during the school day without permission from their dorm parents or a school administrator. Seniors who have honors and are in good standing have permission to return to their dorms.
• Students must have their rooms tidy and be "checked off" by a faculty member before leaving in the morning.

• Dangerous items such as knives and lighters are not appropriate on campus and should be left at home. Any inappropriate item found will be confiscated.
• Posters and room decorations of good taste are permitted in students’ rooms but are to be attached with poster putty, available in the school store.  No tacks, nails or tape may be used. Posters that are inappropriate to the school community are not allowed.
• The dorm rooms and furniture belong to the school.  The school reserves the right to arrange rooms in order to ensure safety and to facilitate easy cleaning.  Students should not move furniture without the permission of the Dorm Head. "Tent beds" and blankets or tapestries hanging from ceilings are prohibited.  Students are responsible for any damage done to school property.
• Televisions are provided in each dorm common room. Personal televisions or monitors are not allowed.
• At the end of each term, students are expected to clean their rooms and have them inspected by a dorm parent. Those who fail to comply are subject to a cleaning fee. Damage to rooms and common rooms should be reported to the Dorm Parent or Director of Residential Life immediately. Students will be charged for damage according to material and labor costs.

• Dorm rooms, student lockers and other items that are considered the property of the School may be searched at any time, regardless if assigned to a specific student. In addition, while the School recognizes the need to respect the privacy of our students, the School also reserves the right to conduct a search of a student’s personal belongings, including backpacks, mobile devices or computers, if there is reasonable suspicion that a school rule has been violated, or if there is concern for the general welfare of the student or others.   Students are expected to cooperate in the conduct of any searches and the failure to do so may result in disciplinary action separate from any consequences for other rule violations.

Laundry

Laundry service is provided for boarders on a weekly basis. Students must prepare laundry on Monday night for Tuesday pickup.  Laundry is usually returned on Friday. Any problems concerning laundry should be reported to the Dean of Students.  Although the School will help to solve any problems concerning a student's laundry, it will not be responsible for lost or damaged clothing.

There is a $1089.00 laundry service fee for the 2022-2023 school year. This fee includes mending, dry cleaning, and laundry service.  Parents who do not wish to use the laundry service must notify the Business Office, in writing, prior to the opening of school. There will be no credits issued after the opening of school. Please note that there are no washers and dryers on campus for student use.

Packing/Shipping at End of School

The School works with a shipping company for student shipping needs. Boxes will be picked up and will be shipped home or to graduates’ future schools once payment arrangements are made with the company. The School assumes no responsibility for damage to articles during the shipping process.

DAY STUDENT INFORMATION

ABSENCES/LATE ARRIVAL/EARLY DEPARTURE

PLEASE notify the office before 8:00 a.m. if your child is not going to attend classes that day.  This will help keep attendance records accurate.  If a student is late arriving, they should check in at the Lower Office BEFORE going to class.  Day Students may leave early only with permission from the office and parents must communicate their plans to the office. 

Arrival and Pick-up Time

Day students should arrive at school between 7:40 and 8:00 a.m.  Parents should arrange to pick their children up between: Lower School 4:15-4:45 p.m. and Upper School 4:30-5:00 p.m.  Athletics played off the Rumsey campus may result in a later pick-up.  Please check the school website or call the school office for current information.

Upper School Pick-up and Drop off procedures - When a student is dropped off after 8 a.m. or picked up before 4:30 p.m., they must check in to the Lower Office before heading to classes or check out of the Lower Office before departing campus. This ensures an accurate attendance of the students who are on campus and those that are not. Please communicate any planned absences, late arrivals, or early departures with attendance@rumseyhall.org or call 860-868-0535 ext 970

Lower School Pick-up and Drop off procedures - When a student is dropped off after 8 a.m., they must check in to the Lower Office before heading to classes. When leaving during the school day or after school activities, Lower School students taking part in the Afternoon Enrichment Program (Pre-K to IInd Form) need to be signed out on the “Community Clipboard”.  Please communicate any planned absences, late arrivals, or early departures with attendance@rumseyhall.org or call 860-868-0535 ext 970

If sports are canceled due to poor weather, other activities are planned for students.  If a day student must leave early for a medical or dental appointment, we ask that the office be notified twenty-four hours in advance. If a child is absent without the School's knowledge, it will be considered an "unexcused absence."

For obvious safety reasons, it is important that we know the whereabouts of students while they are on campus.  Students are not allowed to leave school early unless there are special circumstances.  Should you receive a phone call from your child asking to be picked up early before sports or activities, please know this is against school policy.  Requests for early pick-up must originate from home.

If your child is being picked up early due to illness, hazardous driving conditions, etc… Please notify the office attendance@rumseyhall.org or call 860-868-0535 ext 970

Doctor/Dentist Appointments

If possible, please schedule doctor or dentist appointments for “after-school” hours so that students do not miss class. Please inform the office in advance of appointments  attendance@rumseyhall.org or call 860-868-0535 ext 970

Dinner Sign-Up

Day students are permitted to stay at Rumsey for dinner whenever there is a special occasion.  Students are required to get permission from an administrator by noon.

School Cancellations

Because of the large number of Boarding Students, classes are usually held regardless of weather conditions, but there are certainly times when we may have a delayed start.  Parents of Day Students should use their discretion about traveling to and from school during bad weather. In conditions when a delay or cancellation is necessary, an emergency communication will be sent via email. We will simultaneously send a text message using the contact information in our parent directory. All contact information is strictly secure and confidential and is only used for the School’s purposes. Please note that international phone numbers will not receive a text message.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Advisors

Each student in the School is assigned a faculty advisor.  The advisor meets with his/her advisees each week individually or as a group in order to discuss grades, effort and school life in general.  Contact with advisors, however, is not limited to those occasions. The student or the advisor may request a conference at any time.  The advisor is the primary contact for parents. Parents should feel free to contact their child's advisor at any time during the year. Lower School homeroom teachers act as advisors to the students in their homerooms.

School Store

The School Store is located in the Campus Center and is open to students during the school day.  The School Store stocks academic supplies, clothing and some articles of personal hygiene.  

School Store Hours:

Students: Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 8:30 a.m. until 11:15 a.m.(or first lunch)

Students: Friday—Student Bank from 8:30 a.m. until sports (2:30 p.m.)

Parents: Monday-Friday at drop-off (8 a.m.) or by appointment

Color Teams 

The entire student body is divided into two teams, the Reds and the Blues.  These teams compete on a weekly basis in effort, conduct, community service and athletic categories.  

In the Upper School, students earn points for their teams for being on the Effort List, Dean's List, earning Student of the Month recognition, participating in various “color games”, or for community service.  In the Lower School, students earn points for their teams by participating in numerous community “spirit activities” throughout the school year.

Student Spending Account

Transactions for student spending will be posted to your child's MyKidsSpending account. Over the summer, communication will be sent regarding this account, including required amounts to be deposited on specific dates. Parents should monitor the account to maintain a positive balance at all times.

Religious Services

Students are able to attend online religious services as approved by the parent and the School. When possible, the School will arrange for students to attend religious services in person.

Community Water Systems

The general report on water purity is available in the Business Office.

Senior Visits to Prep Schools

Seniors are encouraged to visit prep schools during the extended Senior Weekend (see Rumsey calendar). Seniors must meet their athletic commitments  and may leave AFTER their contests. Students should try not to miss classes or athletics to visit schools.  If special circumstances arise, a student who will miss classes or athletics to visit a school must give advance notice to Director of Secondary School Counseling Clayton Ketchum, and their teachers and coach. Students are responsible for all in-class and homework assignments.

DRESS CODE REGULATIONS

Allergies

Parents are expected to notify Rumsey Health Center if their child has food or other allergies that may require medical attention. Below is the process the School will follow in gathering and planning for a student with an allergic condition.  Students who may require additional accommodations or other safety plans will be handled on an individual basis.

• Rumsey Health Center carefully reviews allergy information uploaded by parents onto Magnus Health.  Parents are responsible to share allergy updates as needed.

• Parents must provide an Allergy Action Plan on Magnus Health that identifies any prescribed medications for treatment - signed by both parent and physician.

• Rumsey Health Center shares an ongoing list of student allergies with Dining Services  and the appropriate Faculty.

• Dining Services is responsible for coordinating meal planning to ensure that an allergy free food is always available to each student identified with a food allergy at every meal, including meals prepared for off-campus travel.

• The Food Service Director meets with each child to discuss their food allergy and alternate food items available.  

• Rumsey Health Center trains all Faculty at the start of each academic school year on anaphylaxis, recognizing symptoms, and emergency protocols.  Faculty are also trained on Epi-Pen  administration using an auto-injector trainer.  The School maintains a record of all training.  

As per Medical Director’s Written Orders, Rumsey Health Center places stock Epi-Pens in secured First Aid Boxes strategically placed on Campus (i.e., Dining Hall, Gyms  and Dorms). Prescribed and stock Epi-Pens are kept in a secure location at the Health Center.

Food Allergies During Off Campus/Travel:

• Off Campus Athletic Events:  The Athletic Department provides a complete Sports Roster for each athletic team which identifies student lunch assignments and any student with a known food allergy.  Each Thursday, the Athletic Director emails to all Faculty a document that identifies the teams traveling off campus for games, and which of these teams will be departing early and thus, require bag lunches.  The Food Service Director prepares appropriate travel lunches, including allergy free lunch for any student identified with a food allergy.  The Food Service Director labels any lunch bag for any student with an allergy requiring a special allergy free lunch.
• Field Trips – Faculty members notify the Health Center and Food Service Director of any off-campus field trips that require lunches or other meals. As with athletic events, the Food Service Director is responsible for ensuring that there is an appropriate lunch for a student identified with a food allergy and a lunch bag is labeled for the student.
• Magnus Health 911 Emergency Lists are placed in each bus.  This list contains the names of students with known allergies, identifying the specific allergy.
• The Health Center provides medical supplies (Epi-Pens, Inhalers, Allergy Action Plans, First Aid Kits) to Faculty as needed for any off-campus event.

Mental Health Services

Rumsey Hall School is committed to the health of the overall child including the emotional and mental well-being of its community.  Mental health counseling services are available to all boarding and day students.  Parents should communicate all past mental health/behavioral health interventions with our Counselor, George Webb, gwebb@rumseyhall.org prior to the beginning of school. Mental health medications and prescriptions will need to be prescribed by a domestic M.D. or psychiatric mid-level provider. International prescriptions will not be accepted. Finding a mental health prescriber is the responsibility of the parent.  Please refer to the Medication Policies listed above for all medication distribution.

Recreational Activities

Bicycles - Students are allowed to bring bicycles to school, but must agree to accept responsibility in the following areas:  

• Students must wear a strapped helmet at all times when riding a bike.
• Students can ride their own bike or Rumsey bikes. No borrowing or lending bikes.
• Students ride single only.  No riding double.
• No riding after dark.
• Bikes must always be ridden carefully, not recklessly.
• Bikes may not be parked where they block entrances or exits of buildings.
• Riding bikes on school streets during times of arrival and departure of day students is dangerous and not permitted.
• In order to promote optimum responsibility, all bike owners are required to bring a lock to keep bikes secure when not in use.
• Students who do not follow these procedures will lose bike privileges for a period of time that will be determined by the Dean of Students.

Roller blades, Skateboards and Scooters

Outdoor use of rollerblades, skateboards and scooters is permitted on weekdays between 5:00 p.m. and dusk and on weekends if the child has signed permission on the activity form. Strapped helmets must be worn. No motorized scooters, motorized skateboards, or hover boards are allowed.

Movies and Internet Shows

Weekend movie trips are offered to local theaters. The movies selected are rated G, PG or PG13.

Video Games

Students are allowed to play video games rated E (everyone) or T (teen) on personal computers or handheld devices at appropriate times. Students are not allowed to have game systems such as PlayStation or Xbox in their rooms.  

Sex, Drug and Health Education

The school, as an educational institution, feels a responsibility to provide drug, health and sex education for its students.  

Lost and Found

Lost and found is collected in the Study Hall and in the Lower School.  Lost articles can be claimed each day.  Periodically, a handout is made at the morning meeting or at recess.  To make matters easier, it is suggested that ALL BELONGINGS BE CLEARLY MARKED WITH THE STUDENT'S NAME. STUDENTS MUST BE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN BELONGINGS.  The School will not assume responsibility for lost, missing or stolen items.

COMMENCEMENT/END OF YEAR PRIZES

The following prizes are awarded at the end of year Award Ceremonies or Commencement each year:

Prizes for the Top Scholars In Each Form (I – VII)

The Edward B. Whitney Prize for Excellence in Declamation 

Annual Dining Hall Prefect Award

Prize for the Greatest Improvement in Scholarship

With name engraved on the Moran Cup

Charlotte Underwood Library Award

To the Library prefect who, by the diligent and conscientious performance of his or her duties, has most significantly contributed to the efficient handling of the Rumsey Library.

Prize for the Boarding Scholar Having the Best Conduct Record

Awarded to a male and female with their names engraved on the Tyson-Barnes Cup

Lawrence Larkin ‘16 Technology Achievement Award

 A prize established in l983 by Lawrence Larkin, Class of l9l6,

 given annually to the boy or girl who has shown the highest

 level of appreciation, understanding and usage of technology. .

Richard M. Wachcic Junior Athletic Award

Established by the parents of Robert Jordon Flatow and awarded to

a male and female member of a junior athletic team who best exemplifies those

qualities of character, sportsmanship and leadership which Richard

Wachcic inspired in the hearts of his players as a Rumsey Hall coach.

Greatest Improvement in Athletics

Presented to a male and female athlete

Best All-Around Male and Female Athletes

Presented to a male and female athlete

Outstanding Scholar-Athletes  

Presented to a male and female athlete with their names engraved on the John E. Calhoun Honor Cup

The David Lloyd Memorial Prize

Awarded to that student whose love of books and learning, and whose thoughtful, kind and gentle disposition personify the exceptional contributions to the Rumsey Hall community of former teacher and administrator, David Loyd.

J. Mitchell Magnoli Memorial Award

Given in memory of Mitch Magnoli, a student at Rumsey from l967 to l977, son of former Head of School Louis G. and Janice Magnoli. This award recognizes that member of the VIth Form whose spirit and attitude exemplify the Rumsey values of honesty, kindness, and respect which Mitch believed in so strongly. Mitch was many things to many people.  Most significantly, he had a sense of humor, was genuinely nice, hard working and charitable.

Rose Algrant Memorial Award

Given in honor of a beloved French teacher at Rumsey who served on the faculty from 1942-1985.  This scholarship is awarded to that Rumsey student who has demonstrated exceptional appreciation and enthusiasm for the study of a foreign language.

Memorial Award

An honor and prize established by a classmate in memory of William Wait Clements, Class of l924.  The prize is awarded to that student whose example of steady industry and firm citizenship has earned the respect of the faculty and the trust of his or her classmates.

The Faculty Cup

Awarded to that scholar in the Senior Class recognized by the Faculty for his or her consistent academic achievement, loyal commitment to the Rumsey Hall community, and service in support of others.

Alfred L. Hart, II ’65 Fine Arts Award

An award for effort and interest in the arts, given by Mr. and Mrs. Peter M. Hart in memory of their son, a former Rumsey Hall student, who, as an actor and poet, devoted himself to search for the meaning of life through the arts.

Ryan J. Whelan ’89 Memorial Award

An award established by family, friends and classmates, to honor the memory of Ryan Whelan, Rumsey Hall Class of 1989, faculty member from 1998 until 2002.  This prize is awarded to that student whose character and conduct reflect the values of teamwork and friendship that Ryan believed in so deeply and demonstrated through his actions.

The Scott Evans Seibert ’92 Memorial Award

Scott Evans Seibert was the permanent class president of the Class of 1992.  He was best known for his warm smile, his concern for others and his gentle caring ways.  He put the needs of those around him above his own in a most genuine, natural way.  Scott knew at a young age that family and friendships were what mattered most in life.  This award was established by Scott’s family and friends in celebration of his life and in recognition of the wonderful work of the Rumsey Hall teachers.

The Duff Community Service Cup

Recognizes exceptional volunteer service by a student who shares time and talent to enrich the lives of others in surrounding communities.

Award For Excellence

An honor and prize awarded to that student whose performance in the areas of high academic accomplishment and integrity of character has been consistently in the best tradition of Rumsey Hall.

Marjorie Hull Barr Prize

Established in memory of one, who for many years taught at Rumsey Hall with joy and love in the first three forms.  The prize is awarded to the outstanding citizen-scholar in the Lower School.

Henry B. Van Sinderen Memorial Award

Established for Rumsey Hall in l968 by C. Tenant Sons and Company of New York in memory of Henry B. Van Sinderen, who throughout his long and productive career lived the philosophy of "love thy neighbor as thyself" in word and deed.  He believed in "action for good."  Mr. Van Sinderen was instrumental in establishing the present Rumsey Hall campus and was an inspiring force for the development of America's youth through our school.  As far as enduring good works are a part of immortality, Henry Van Sinderen will live for generations to come through the students of Rumsey Hall.

The Gabriella Bass ’94 Arts Award

Awarded to the senior who has demonstrated outstanding ability in the arts.  The award is given by Mr. Hyman Bass and Ms. Dorothea Goldys-Bass in honor of their daughter, Gabby, a graduate of the Class of 1994.

John F. Schereschewsky, Jr. ’47 Memorial Award

Established in 1978 by friends of Rumsey Hall in memory of John F. Schereschewsky, Jr., Class of l947, Head of School from l965 to l969 and Director from l969 to l977.  As teacher, coach, administrator and friend, John F. Schereschewsky, Jr. brought to each of his activities warmth, intelligence and love for his fellow man.  He was also that rare teacher whose enthusiasm never waned, but rather increased year by year.  Whether it be student, associate, parent or friend, he sought the best for them and was willing to give full measure of his talents to help bring this about.  Those whose lives he touched are richer human beings for having known him.

Prize for Perseverance and Worthy Endeavor

In memory of Mr. J.H. Murch, a former master at Rumsey Hall, late

Head of School of Princeton Country Day School. With this cup goes the honor of having the winner's name engraved on the Murch Cup.

Award For Leadership

An honor and prize awarded to that student who has shown steady acceptance of responsibility for his or her own actions, and whose influence has been cast in persistent, effective support of the basic spirit of Rumsey Hall.

Award For Merit

An honor and prize awarded to that scholar who, throughout his or her Rumsey Hall career, has consistently shown in praiseworthy action an acceptance of duty before privilege in the fields of academic study, service to his or her school community and steadfast effort for good.

The Cody Montana ’08 Memorial Paddle Out Award
In 2008 the School theme, Paddle Out, encouraged students to discover their gifts, share their talents, and get involved.  Instead of just standing on the beach watching, Paddle Out!  Cody Montana embraced a Paddle Out philosophy, enriching the community with his infectious smile and fearless passion for life.  The Montana Paddle Out Award is presented to that student whose attitude and actions reflect Cody’s joyful spirit and his natural ability to always see the best in others.                

Head of School's Cup

The highest honor awarded by the school to a student is the engraving of his or her name on the Head of School's Cup, and the awarding of a prize cup established by Mrs. John Rumsey Sanford and her daughters, Mrs. Tankersley and Mrs. MacLeod, in memory of the founder of the school, Lillias Rumsey Sanford.  Annually this honor and prize is awarded to that scholar, who by his or her attitude, conduct and achievement has done the most to promote the best interests of Rumsey Hall, and who is held by the faculty to have exerted a consistent influence for good on his or her fellows.

Other End of Year Awards:

Effort List (Upper School only) and Dean’s List Prizes (Upper and Lower)

Best Male and Female Track Athletes

Norm Couch Fishing Prize

Dorm Citizens of the Year

Sixth Form Batons

Departmental Awards

President’s Education Awards

Other Awards:

The Matthew C. Kraft ‘09 Memorial Award for Leadership

This award, established in 2021 by the Martin family and others who knew and loved Matt, is given annually to a VIth Form student. The award is intended to fund a student outdoor leadership trip the summer prior to their senior year. With this trip in Matt’s memory, the student can experience a challenging and transformative outdoor experience, while learning so many of the values that Matt embodied.

The P.W. Tate Brown Award for Creative Writing, established in 2018 by Headmaster Emeritus Thomas and Ashley Farmen, honors the pivotal role Tate Brown played as Rumsey Hall’s visionary Chair of the Board of Trustees from 1980 -1990.  

The prize is presented to that member of the Senior Class who demonstrates noteworthy passion and talent for creative writing, which Tate Brown encouraged as a volunteer teacher at the School.  The recipient accepts responsibility for designating a non-profit organization to receive a charitable donation in memory of Tate Brown.

While recognizing creative writing talent, the award is also meant to cultivate in students the importance of philanthropy as a way to make a positive impact in the world, as demonstrated by Tate Brown’s generous, thoughtful example at Rumsey Hall School.

FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS AS STATED IN YOUR SIGNED ENROLLMENT CONTRACT

I understand that until my obligation to pay the fees, tuition, and charges is fulfilled, the student may not be allowed to take final exams or participate in Commencement Exercises and may be denied credits earned, including those credits earned towards the fulfillment of the School’s graduation requirements. I also understand that the student’s term grades, comments and transcripts shall be withheld if I am not current on all payments due. I agree to pay the collection costs and reasonable attorney’s fees in the event any action is brought to enforce collection of tuition, fees, and charges payable under this agreement.  I understand further that interest at the rate of one (1) percent per month (12 percent annual rate) will be added to all accounts over 60 days old. The meaning and effect of this contract will be determined according to the laws of the State of Connecticut. 

A transcript or records shall not be sent to any school or institution until all charges (including incidentals) have been paid in full.”

BOARD OF TRUSTEES (2023-2024)

Chair                                        

Gregory Loss (P’18, ‘19, ‘22)                 Nicholas Logothetis ‘03

Woodbury, CT                                Washington, DC

Vice Chair                                                Adrienne Lufkin (P’20, ‘24)

Suzanne Blaicher (P’23, ‘23)                                              Washington, CT

Treasurer                                Gregory Matthews (P’18)

John Fauster (P’19)                                New Preston, CT

Livonia, MI                                

                                         Anne Murdica (P’24, ‘26)

Secretary                                                    Litchfield, CT

Gregory Warner (P’17)                        

New York, NY                                Alex Murphy ‘00

                                        Rowayton, CT

Thomas Allen (P’23)

Watertown, CT                                Catherine O’Dwyer (P’23, ‘25, ‘27)

                                        Litchfield, CT

Lauren Booth (P’13, ‘15, ‘19, ‘27, ‘27)

Roxbury, CT                                Director of Advancement, Ex Officio

                                        Ben Pastor

Graham Cole

Pennington, NJ                                Keefe Rafferty ‘07

                                        Cohasset, MA

Head of School, ExOfficio

Ian Craig                                        Elizabeth Schereschewsky ‘56 Stout

                                        Bloomfield, CT        

John Eren ‘97 (P’28, ‘31)

Bethlehem, CT                        

                                        ==========================

Associate Head of School, Ex Officio

Brooke Giese (P’23, ‘27)                        Danelle Placella, non-voting

                                        CFOO

Manuel Grullon ‘00                                

Santo Domingo, DR                        Julie Fredlund, non-voting

                                        Recording Secretary

Abraham  Joseph (P’29, ‘30)

Litchfield, CT                        

ADMINISTRATION

Ian Craig, Head of School

Brooke  Giese, Associate Head of School

Robert Brenner, Director of Lower School

Scott Blum, Director of Facilities

Richard Butler, Director of Residential Life

Nancy Dalrymple, Director of the Health Center

Steven Dodge, Director of Technology

Laura Stubbs, Director of Communications

Clayton  Ketchum, Director of Secondary School Counseling

Jennifer Kolpak, Director of Enrollment Management

Ben Pastor, Director of Advancement

Philip Perreault, Dean of Students

Jay Przygocki, Athletic Director

    Danelle Placella, Chief Financial Officer

RUMSEY CIRCLE PARENTS ASSOCIATION OFFICERS

President

Danielle Young (P'22, '23, '26)

Bridgewater, CT

Vice-President

Kady Nicksa (P’26)

Burlington, CT

Communications Coordinator

Ledlie Mosch '92 Pastor (P'27, '29)

Washington Depot, CT

Recording Secretary

Millie Perry (P’27)

Washington, CT  

Treasurer

Kate Eren (P’28, '31)

Bethlehem, CT

Upper School & Community Coordinator

Robin Izadpanah (P’26)

Washington, CT

Lower School Coordinator

AnaCristina Joseph (P’29, '30)

Litchfield, CT

SCHOOL SONG

Dear Old Rumsey

Down in the valley where the trout stream lies,

Dreams of my childhood days gone by,

Down where the Berkshire foothills end,

Lies not a school, but my dearest friends.

I want to go back to Dear Old Rumsey,

Hearin' ya' call, I'm comin' back to you next fall.

My home in the Glen, in the Shepaug Valley

Even though I was small then

I felt so tall when I went to Rumsey Hall.

Remember football, Clef Club, Red and Blue.

Effort List and Bromley, too.

Since I've been away from you,

Life's been one long weekend blue. Please

Carry me back to Dear Old Rumsey.

I had a ball those lovely years I spent at Rumsey.

Down on the banks of the Bantam River.

Even though I was small then

I felt so tall when I went to Rumsey Hall--to Rumsey Hall.

Words and Music by Downey Stancs

P’70,’71,’73,’75,’76, GP’08, ‘11