School Resources

Motto: Cultivating a Culture of Excellence 

School Colors: Blue and Gold

School Mascot: The Raider

• Promote a culture of school pride and excellence across all programs 
• Nurture a family-centered environment among faculty, staff, and students 
• Increase standardized test scores in English, Math, Science, and Social Studies 
• Incorporate technology to enhance teaching and learning 
• Coordinate curriculum across high school and middle school levels 
• Foster a safe and supportive learning environment 
• Provide opportunities to develop student leadership across the school 

The mission of W. J. Keenan High School is to provide engaging educational opportunities through a rigorous curriculum, cutting-edge technology, and partnerships to extend to our diverse community and produce first-class citizens who will contribute to the present and excel in the future. WE ARE KEENAN!​ 

Our vision is to create a nationally known high school that is highly regarded for its academic excellence, leadership in cutting edge technology, science, environmental, and career-based programs. A high school that builds strong relationships with all stakeholders and continues a culture where the expectation is to lead, set the example, and raise standards for all to follow.​ 

• Honesty, integrity, and mutual respect are vital and expected 
• Personal responsibility is essential for a successful community 
• Every person has the responsibility to succeed 
• Everyone has equal intrinsic value and deserves to be treated with dignity 
• Strength lies in diversity, grounded in shared values 
• Creating and adapting to change is essential for success 
• Collaborative participation is the most effective way to solve human problems 
• Every person has an innate capacity for good 
• All individuals possess talents and abilities that are worth developing 
• High expectations yield high results 

Keenan High, we do adore thee, 
Ever would we praise thy name. 
Fill our lives with zeal and courage 
As we live from day to day. 
Guardian of our halls of learning, 
Blessed mother of the free, 
Teach us how to love each other, 
As we seek and learn to be. 

Keenan High, we do adore thee, 
Ever would we praise thy name. 
Fill our lives with zeal and courage 
As we live from day to day. 
Guardian of our halls of learning, 
Blessed mother of the free, 
Teach us how to love each other, 
As we seek and learn to be. 

R ~ Resilient 

A ~ Accountable 

I ~ Inquisitive, Intelligent, Ingenious 

D ~ Determined 

E ~ Engaged, Encouraged 

R ~ Respectful, Resourceful, Ready 

Academic Mission: At W.J. Keenan High School, we proudly support the South Carolina Department of Education’s mission to serve students, support teachers, empower parents, and engage the community—ensuring that every graduate is prepared to reach their full potential. 

Academic Goals: Our goal is to promote academic excellence and ensure that students graduate, college‑ready, career‑ready, military‑ready, or workforce‑ready. 

Return After Absence

A written note must be submitted within two (2) days of the student's absence. Notes should be submitted to the Attendance Office before first period on the return day.

Parent/Guardian Note Requirements must include first and last name of the student, specific and valid explanation of the absences, the exact day(s) the student was absent. Please include home or cell phone numbers and a parent/guardian signature. Medical excuses will be accepted when submitted in a timely manner (two (2) days of student's absence).

Attendance Expectations

The School Board expects all students to attend every scheduled class and activity each day they are on campus. Regular attendance is essential to academic success and maintaining a respectful learning environment. Attendance is mandatory for all scheduled classes and activities. Failure to attend while on campus is considered a class cut. Violation of the attendance policy may lead to disciplinary action.

Violation for Attendance Policy

A student who is physically on campus but does not attend a scheduled class or activity without administrative approval is in violation of policy. Applies even if the student is present elsewhere on campus and is considered disruptive behavior.

Definition of Truancy

A student is considered truant when unexcused absences reach a defined threshold. Three (3) consecutive unexcused absences or five (5) cumulative unexcused absences. 

Truancy Warning

Truancy is a serious concern and may result in school and district-level responses. Patterns of unexcused absences trigger interventions. These include legal, disciplinary or academic consequences.

An Attendance Intervention Plan (AIP) is developed for students who demonstrate chronic absenteeism, particularly excessive unexcused absences. Students with frequent or ongoing unexcused absences that negatively impact academic progress.

Root cause identification highlight factors contributing to absenteeism (e.g., academic challenges, health, transportation, family concerns, school engagement).

Previous interventions documents all prior to attendance-related interventions, support, and communications. Students are provided personalized strategies that outlines individualized actions and support tailored to the students’ needs to improve attendance.

Our supportive approach focuses on re-engaging students through collaboration, encouragement, and accountability. The overall goal is to help students return to regular attendance and remain on track for academic success.

Participation in athletics and extracurricular activities is a privilege that requires students to maintain satisfactory academic performance, attendance, and behavior. Eligibility for participation is governed by the requirements of the South Carolina High School League (SCHSL) and Richland School District One (RCSD1), including maintaining a minimum 2.0 GPA, meeting attendance expectations, carrying the required course load, and complying with age requirements. Students must be present during the school day to participate in practices, rehearsals, competitions, or other school-sponsored events. Failure to meet academic, attendance, or behavioral standards may result in suspension or removal from extracurricular participation.

The cafeteria is an extension of the classroom, and all students are expected to demonstrate respect, responsibility, and accountability while creating a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for everyone. Students should use polite and respectful language, maintain appropriate personal space, and interact positively with peers and cafeteria staff.

Students are expected to walk calmly to and from the cafeteria and follow established procedures while in line. To ensure fairness and efficiency, students must wait patiently in a single-file line and may not cut, break, or form double lines.

Appropriate behavior includes using a reasonable voice level and speaking respectfully with others. Yelling, excessive noise, or calling across the cafeteria is not permitted, as it disrupts the dining environment.

To maintain safety, students must keep their hands, feet, and personal belongings to themselves at all times. Sitting on cafeteria tables, throwing food, horseplay, or interfering with another student's meal is prohibited.

Students are responsible for helping keep the cafeteria clean. Before leaving, students must dispose of all trash properly, clean their eating area, and take responsibility for any spills or messes they create.

All students are expected to make responsible choices, demonstrate honesty and integrity, and accept accountability for their actions. Failure to follow cafeteria expectations may result in disciplinary consequences in accordance with the school's code of conduct.

Class Cutting

A class cut is defined as an intentional absence from a scheduled class or school activity without prior administrative approval. Class cutting is considered a serious violation of school expectations and may result in disciplinary consequences.

Early Dismissal

An early dismissal occurs when a student leaves school before the end of the regular school day. Students may not be dismissed after 2:45 p.m. except in emergency situations. Acceptable reasons for early dismissal include medical appointments, family emergencies, funeral attendance, and other approved circumstances.

To request an early dismissal, a parent or guardian must provide a written note, sign the student out in person, or submit appropriate documentation when required. Students who become ill during the school day must report to the school nurse before being considered for dismissal.

Clear communication with the Attendance Office is essential to ensure a safe and efficient dismissal process.

Emergency drills are conducted regularly to prepare students and staff to respond safely during an emergency. When an alarm sounds, students must immediately evacuate the building, follow established exit procedures, remain with their class, and follow all staff directions. During drills and evacuations, students should move quickly and calmly, remain quiet and attentive, and proceed to designated safe areas. Full cooperation is required at all times to help ensure the safety and well-being of the entire school community.

To promote student health, safety, and an orderly school environment, all food-related activities on campus must comply with school and district regulations. Any food sales conducted on school grounds require prior approval from school administration and must adhere to all applicable district, state, and federal guidelines. Independent food sales by students are prohibited. Approved fundraising activities involving food must be supervised by a staff member and meet established nutrition and safety requirements.

Outside food deliveries are not permitted during the school day. Students may not receive food from delivery services such as DoorDash, Grubhub, Uber Eats, or similar vendors while on campus. Students are expected to bring lunch from home or participate in the school's cafeteria meal program.

Food sharing among students is also prohibited. Although sharing food may be intended as a kind gesture, it can create significant health and safety concerns, including exposure to food allergies, dietary restrictions, food sensitivities, and the potential spread of illness.

All students are expected to follow these guidelines to help maintain a safe, healthy, and equitable learning environment for everyone. Failure to comply with food sales, delivery, or food-sharing expectations may result in disciplinary action consistent with school policies and procedures.

As part of South Carolina's Free to Focus initiative, students are expected to keep cell phones and personal electronic devices (iPads, handheld gaming devices, etc.) silenced and out of sight throughout the school day to support a distraction-free learning environment. Phones may not be used in classrooms, hallways, restrooms, cafeterias, or locker rooms during school hours. Exceptions may be made for students with documented medical needs as outlined in an IEP, 504 Plan, or health plan. Students who violate the cell phone policy will be subject to progressive disciplinary consequences, including warnings, suspension, and other corrective measures as outlined in the school's code of conduct.

Cell Phone/Electronics Policy Violations

Students who violate the Free to Focus cell phone policy will be subject to progressive disciplinary consequences:

• 1st Offense: Verbal warning and documentation in PowerSchool.
• 2nd Offense: One (1) day In-School Suspension (ISS).
• 3rd Offense: One (1) day In-School Suspension (ISS) and a required parent/guardian conference.
• 4th Offense: One (1) day Out-of-School Suspension (OSS).
• 5th Offense and Beyond: Referral for Refusal to Obey, resulting in a minimum of two (2) days Out-of-School Suspension (OSS). Additional consequences may include a recommendation for an Administrative Hearing and/or the implementation of a School Behavior Contract, which will supersede previous disciplinary consequences.

Students are expected to keep all cell phones and personal electronic devices silenced and out of sight throughout the school day. Failure to comply with the Free to Focus initiative may result in disciplinary action designed to support a focused and distraction-free learning environment.

The school is committed to supporting student health, wellness, and safety through comprehensive nursing services. A full-time Registered Nurse (RN) is available to provide care for acute illnesses, assist with chronic health conditions, conduct health screenings, and offer health education and counseling. In accordance with South Carolina law, all students must maintain current immunization records to attend school. Medications may be administered at school only with the required medical documentation and parent/guardian consent. Students who become ill during the school day must report to the nurse for evaluation and may not leave campus without following established school procedures. The school nurse may also coordinate referrals to community healthcare resources when appropriate to support student health and well-being

The Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) is a schoolwide framework designed to provide academic, behavioral, and social-emotional support to all students. Using a proactive, data-driven approach, MTSS identifies student needs early and provides interventions through a three-tiered system of support. Tier 1 includes high-quality instruction and support for all students, Tier 2 provides targeted interventions for students needing additional assistance, and Tier 3 offers intensive, individualized support for students with significant needs. Through collaboration among educators, families, and support staff, MTSS helps ensure that every student has access to the resources and interventions needed to succeed academically, behaviorally, and emotionally.

In accordance with state law, the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence will be observed each school day. 

Participation in the Pledge of Allegiance is voluntary for all students. Students who choose not to participate must remain quiet and respectful. Appropriate behavior includes remaining seated or standing quietly and refraining from any disruptive actions. 

The Uniform Grading Policy (UGP) was established by the South Carolina State Board of Education under the direction of the General Assembly. This policy ensures consistency in grading and GPA calculations across all South Carolina public high schools.

The UGP standardizes transcript formats and promotes fairness in evaluating student performance statewide.

Page 4 shows the UGP: https://ed.sc.gov/districts-schools/state-accountability/uniform-grading-policy/administrative-procedures-uniform-grading-policy/

Note: Students must earn a minimum of 60% to pass a course.

Midday Schedule (Split by Location)

Afternoon Instruction

Afternoon Dismissal & Pickup Procedures

Note: Students participating in extracurricular activities must be picked up from their assigned activity area.

Bell Schedule – Half Day

W.J. Keenan High School, in partnership with Columbia Area Mental Health Center (CAMHC) and Richland School District One, offers school-based mental health services to support students' emotional, behavioral, and social well-being. A licensed mental health therapist is available on campus during the school day to provide counseling, crisis intervention, suicide prevention, medication management, and other supportive services. Students may be referred for concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral challenges, relationship difficulties, or school adjustment issues. Participation in services requires parent/guardian consent. For additional information or assistance, families may contact the school or the school-based mental health therapist.

In accordance with Richland One School District Policy JICA - Student Dress, Richland School District One requires students to dress in a way that supports a safe, respectful, and distraction‑free learning environment. This dress code applies during the school day, while riding school transportation, and at all school‑related activities and events. Clothing and appearance that are unsafe, disrespectful, offensive, or disruptive to learning are not permitted.

Student Dress Code

The purpose of the dress code is to promote a safe, respectful, and distraction-free learning environment while encouraging students to present themselves in a manner appropriate for school.

Students are expected to wear clothing that fully covers the front and back midsection at all times. Shirts that expose the stomach, lower back, or any visible skin between the shirt and pants, shorts, or skirts are not permitted.

Pants, jeans, shorts, skirts, and other bottoms must provide appropriate coverage and fully conceal undergarments, private areas, and pockets. Clothing that is excessively short or contains rips, tears, or openings that expose undergarments or private areas is prohibited. Students may not wear spandex shorts, biker shorts, one-piece body suits, cat suits, or other tight-fitting stretch garments made of similar materials as outerwear.

All clothing, bags, and accessories must display appropriate messages, images, and designs. Clothing or accessories containing profanity, vulgar language, obscene images or gestures, or references to violence, alcohol, tobacco, vaping products, or illegal drugs are not permitted.

Appropriate headwear, including baseball caps, beanies, skull caps, decorative head wraps, hijabs, and turbans, may be worn as intended. Hoods, bonnets, durags, ski masks, novelty masks, and other full-face coverings are not permitted inside the school building except for approved religious or medical reasons.

Students must wear appropriate footwear at all times. Athletic shoes, casual shoes, dress shoes, boots, sandals, and slides are permitted. House shoes, bedroom slippers, soft-bottom slippers, and other unsafe footwear are prohibited.

Pajamas, blankets, and throws may not be worn or brought into the school building. School administration reserves the right to determine whether clothing or accessories are disruptive to the educational environment or inconsistent with the intent of the dress code.

Dress Code Violations

Students who violate the dress code will be subject to progressive disciplinary consequences. A first offense will result in a verbal warning, a requirement to change into appropriate attire, and documentation in PowerSchool. A second offense will result in a one-day In-School Suspension (ISS) and the student must change clothes. A third offense will result in a one-day ISS, a required parent/guardian conference, and a change of clothing. A fourth offense will result in a one-day Out-of-School Suspension (OSS).

Students who commit a fifth or subsequent dress code violation may be referred for Refusal to Obey, receive a two-day Out-of-School Suspension, and may be recommended for an Administrative Hearing. In addition, a School Behavior Contract may be issued and will supersede all previous disciplinary consequences.

Compliance with the dress code is expected of all students and is considered an important part of maintaining a positive and productive school environment.

Richland School District One provides bus transportation for eligible students and is committed to ensuring a safe and orderly ride to and from school. Riding the school bus is a privilege, and students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that supports the safety, security, and well-being of all passengers.

All students must comply with the Regulations of Student Transportation established by the South Carolina Department of Education and applicable state transportation laws. Students are required to ride their assigned bus, sit in their assigned seat, and remain seated while the bus is in motion. Students should be at their designated bus stop on time, as buses cannot delay routes to accommodate late arrivals.

To promote safety, students must follow all directions given by the bus driver, who serves as a school official and has the authority to maintain order on the bus. Students must keep their hands, feet, and personal belongings to themselves, remain facing forward while seated, keep aisles clear, and refrain from extending any part of their body or objects outside bus windows. The rear emergency exit is for emergency use only and should never be used without authorization.

Students are expected to demonstrate respectful and responsible behavior while riding the bus. Fighting, aggressive behavior, profanity, bullying, harassment, throwing objects, littering, vandalism, interference with other students or their property, and possession or use of tobacco, alcohol, drugs, or other prohibited substances are strictly prohibited. Any behavior that distracts the driver or creates an unsafe environment may result in disciplinary action.

The bus driver is responsible for maintaining appropriate student conduct and documenting and reporting misconduct to school administration. Students who violate transportation expectations may be subject to disciplinary consequences, including warnings, parent contact, disciplinary referrals, suspension of bus riding privileges, or additional school-based consequences. The principal or designee has the authority to suspend or revoke a student's transportation privileges for misconduct occurring on the school bus or at bus stops. Serious or repeated violations may result in extended suspension of transportation services and further disciplinary action in accordance with district policy and South Carolina transportation regulations.

Although school jurisdiction generally ends when a student exits the bus at their assigned stop, students may still be subject to school discipline for off-campus behavior that has a direct and substantial impact on the school environment, student safety, or school operations.

For transportation information, including bus routes and services, families may contact the Richland School District One Transportation Office at 803-691-5578.

Student fundraising activities are permitted only with prior approval from school administration and must directly support school-sponsored programs, activities, or projects that enhance the educational experience of students. All fundraising efforts must be approved and supervised by the principal or a designated school official to ensure proper oversight and accountability. Students may not participate in fundraising activities during instructional time without explicit administrative permission, nor may they independently solicit funds for personal expenses or extracurricular participation. These guidelines help ensure that fundraising activities are purposeful, equitable, and aligned with the mission and goals of the school.

Student identification cards are an important part of maintaining a safe and secure school environment. All students are required to wear their school-issued ID card on a visible lanyard around their neck while on campus. ID cards are used to verify student identity, support campus security, assist during emergencies, and provide access to school services such as cafeteria purchases, technology check-out, and parking privileges. Wearing an ID card at all times promotes accountability, enhances school safety, and helps prepare students for expectations in college, the workplace, and other professional settings.

The purpose of the tardy policy is to promote punctuality, maximize instructional time, and support student academic success and positive school behavior. Students are expected to arrive at school and each class on time, prepared to participate in learning. Consistent punctuality helps students develop responsible habits and ensures that instructional time is used effectively.

A student is considered tardy when they arrive after the school day or class period has begun. Tardiness can negatively affect a student's academic progress by resulting in missed instructional time, classroom disruptions, declines in academic performance, and an increased likelihood of behavioral concerns.

Students who arrive late to school must report to the designated check-in location upon arrival and obtain an official pass before reporting to class. Failure to complete the check-in process may result in additional disciplinary action.

A tardy will be considered unexcused if the student arrives without valid documentation or an approved reason for being late. Students and families are encouraged to provide appropriate documentation when applicable.

Repeated or excessive tardiness may result in disciplinary and intervention measures, including, but not limited to:

• Detention
• Behavior contracts or intervention plans
• Parent/guardian conferences
• Loss of school privileges or participation in extracurricular activities
• Suspension, when warranted by continued noncompliance

Students who arrive 45 minutes or more after the start of a class period will be marked absent for that class period in accordance with the school attendance policy.

Consistent punctuality and regular attendance are critical to a student's academic achievement, personal responsibility, and long-term success. Students and families share the responsibility of ensuring that students arrive at school and class on time each day.

o promote a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment, students are expected to demonstrate positive behavior at all times. Students should treat teachers, staff, and peers with respect; use appropriate language; follow the school dress code; and conduct themselves in a courteous and cooperative manner that supports learning.

Teachers are responsible for maintaining order and discipline in the classroom and are supported by school administration in enforcing school expectations. Teachers may immediately remove students for significant or repeated behavioral disruptions. Teachers may use classroom interventions, assign consequences, or submit referrals when necessary. Students who engage in significant or repeated disruptions may be removed from class, and a parent/guardian conference may be required before the student returns.

By meeting these expectations, students help create a positive academic environment where everyone can learn and succeed.