As the students like to start the day with a familiar chant, "It's a great day to be a HAWK!" it's a good time to remind ourselves that Hawk Pride shines throughout the school day and is spotlighted throughout our athletic events. Our student athletes work hard to condition, practice, and compete and our student fans work equally hard to support them with RHHS pride. With exams, blizzard predictions, and a new semester the calendar gave us a break in our schedule and the chance to review our HAWK expectations.
In an October post and a subsequent December post, the Howard County Public School System rules and expectations as well as the River Hill house rules were shared with our students and with our larger community. It is clear that both posts contain similar information; however, the house rules for RHHS were developed with student leaders. For example and for clarification, the reference to chanting was designed specifically to guide fans into a house cheer--long enough and loudly enough to show school spirit. The other statements highlight common expectations for all HCPSS schools and help ensure a safe and welcoming environment for our community, which includes many younger children and parents.
Unfortunately, we have experienced some negative behaviors, such as slurs or personally demeaning comments made against ethnic or racial groups, individual players or teams, and officials. Administrators from our HCPSS high schools have also shared concerns with us. RHHS administrators are working hard to "coach" our student fans to show school spirit with RHHS pride. Please be reassured that our administrators also follow-up with any issues we may witness from rival fans as we regularly communicate across high schools. Most often, any misbehavior is addressed on the spot and students comply. A student will only be asked to leave an event if that individual continues to behave inappropriately; administrators will follow-up with parents.
Please take time to review expectations with your RHHS student.