Richard Arrington Jr. Middle School2101 Jefferson Avenue SW

Birmingham, Alabama 35211Phone (205) 231-1130 Fax (205) 231-1133

Faculty & Staff Handbook

“HOME OF THE BULLDOGS”

FACULTY AND STAFF1 | P a g e

2017- 2018Interim PrincipalBruce Roper

Assistant PrincipalTonika N. Perry

SecretaryBridget Edwards

AttendanceHazel Jackson

Project DirectorChristine Armstrong

CounselorJudy Talley

Sixth GradeDarlene Wallace Social ScienceJudy Hinton ReadingShelia Spencer MathJacqueline Boglin ELADemetria Freeman Science

Seventh GradeSherry Giles MathHarold Bufford-Clark ELALeFrante Hutchinson Life ScienceWinfield Madison Social Studies

Eighth GradeMarshall Williams MathLaToya Banks-Mason ELAJacqueline Washington Physical ScienceKelvin Jackson Social Studies

Special EducationLinda Jones-Jackson Shannon Royster-Rivers Deanna Williams

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Physical EducationPhyllis WestDedrick Hunter

BandRobert Benton

Family and Consumer ScienceJean Glover

Media SpecialistKrystal Reynolds

Custodial StaffMartinear Jones

Child Nutrition StaffMs. Giles, ManagerTerrance ReevesEloise ShawMarilyn Toney

*Denotes Team Leader

EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

It shall be the policy of the board that Birmingham City Schools shall provide on a non-discriminatory basis, educational opportunities for students. No student shall be denied the benefits of any educational program or activity on the basis of race, color, handicap, ability, creed, national origin, age or sex. All programs offered by the schools within the School District shall be open to all students consistent with statutory and judicial requirements. Admission of students to special and advanced programs of activities shall be based on the performance of students. DO NOT DEPRIVE OUR STUDENTS OF THE SAME OPPORTUNITIES YOU WOULD WANT FOR YOUR OWN CHILD.

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Teaching and Learning Schools are the conscious embodiment of the way we want our next generation to understand their world and their place in it. It calls upon our most critical faculties to sort out what that message ought to be and how the teachers who represent the public in this enterprise can embody such ideals. If mutual respect is the bedrock condition necessary for a healthy democracy, then it must be the foundation of schooling.

-Deborah Meier, The Power of Their Ideas

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BIRMINGHAM CITY SCHOOLSMISSION STATEMENT

The mission of the Birmingham City Schools is to guide all students to achieve excellence in a safe, secure, and nurturing environment.

BCS Vision

Birmingham City Schools will be a recognized leader in public education, meeting the needs of a diverse population prepared to succeed in a global society.

ARRINGTON MIDDLE SCHOOLMISSION STATEMENT

The mission of Arrington Middle School, is to develop self-assured students who are well equipped to be High School, College, & Career Ready by providing a perceptive, dedicated and professional staff which affords students optimal opportunity to develop and use their abilities in an environment that encompasses a varied intellectually rigorous curriculum oriented toward responding to the needs of each child.

We Believe

We believe every student is a valuable learner. We believe every student is capable of impeccable character. We believe that everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. We believe that everyone needs a safe environment. We believe that failure is not an option, and success is inevitable. We believe that family is the fundamental strength of the individual and society. We believe that education is a shared responsibility. It is a partnership between home,

school , and the community. We believe in data-driven instruction to yield high student achievement. We believe in our students’ ability to achieve.

We are

RESPONSIBLE RESPECTFUL TRUSTWORTHY RESOURCEFUL PROACTIVE ASSERTIVE PROBLEM SOLVERS OPTIMISTIC HELPFUL CARING

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Vision Statement

The Arrington Middle School Community will promote higher order thinking skills to develop literacy in students while producing constructive global citizens.

ROUTINE PROCEDURES

There are certain daily procedures and regulations that will enhance our learning environment and the safety of our students.

FACULTY AND STAFF ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE

Faculty and Staff members are expected to clock in and check their mailboxes prior to 7:45 a.m. If faculty or staff members plan to eat breakfast, you must arrive at work in time to complete your meal before the students are dismissed to class. All students will be dismissed to class at 7:50 a.m. In the event that you have to be late, please call Mr. Roper @ _______________Ms. Perry@ 470-3944, or Mrs. Edwards@337-4082 . This will make the start of school a smooth transition. Faculty and Staff members are to remain on campus until 3:15 p.m. If a situation arises and a faculty or staff member needs to leave campus during his/her planning time, he/she must complete a leave campus form and have it cleared by the Principal or Assistant Principal. If this is the case, it is necessary to clock out in the office and clock back in once you return. Only in extreme emergencies, should a teacher leave campus during class time. The team leader must be notified as well.

FACULTY AND STAFF ATTENDANCE

Regular attendance by the faculty and staff is important to the instructional progress of the school. Even though good plans are left by you, and a good substitute is employed, the quality of instruction is not as high as when the regular teacher is present. You are encouraged not to abuse your sick days. Personal leave days may not be taken the first two or last two weeks of school (policy 3050). If you are absent five (5) or more consecutive days, a doctor’s statement is required upon return.

When it is necessary to be absent, you must call the AESOP SYSTEM prior to the date of your absence, in the event of an emergency, please access AESOP no later than 6:00 a.m. on the day of the absence. Also, please contact Mr. Roper or Ms. Perry to apprise them of the situation at hand. The earlier you call the AESOP SYSTEM, the better the possibility of obtaining a substitute. Just because you receive a job number does not mean you have a substitute. Make sure that your sub folder is updated and submitted to Ms. Perry. Please contact Mr. Roper, or Ms. Perry to inform them of the expected date of your return. Please note, If you return back to work without notifying Mr. Moss, or Ms. Perry, and the substitute is present, the substitute will remain in your position for the day. Mrs. Armstrong is not the person to notify for absences.

Faculty members are required to use the Time Management System and on a daily basis (policy 4065). This is a requirement mandated by the Birmingham City Schools Board of Education. If the system does not acknowledge your log-in, please notify Mrs. Armstrong or Mrs.

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Edwards to reset your hand. Be sure to punch the clock once in the morning and once in the afternoon. Information submitted on the Monthly Service Report will be gathered from the Time Management System.

If you forget to punch the clock or the clock will not take your hand, you are to complete a Request for Time Clock Override form, and the principal must sign off on the form. Ms. Armstrong will not adjust your time without the principal approval. Teachers must be signed in and at their classrooms or designated duty no later than 7:45.

SUBSTITUTE FOLDER

All regular education teachers are to have a folder in their office mailboxes for a substitute teacher in the event that an unplanned absentee occurs. This folder should contain work of objectives scheduled to be taught within a nine week term. Information in this folder should be updated weekly. The folder must contain teacher name, class rolls (for each class period), daily schedules, including flexible schedules, early dismissal, fire/tornado/inclement weather drills, and students’ work with specific instructions. Also, include rules on the use of computers and telephone. Substitute teachers folders are to be turned in to the Curriculum Coach on Friday for the upcoming week. Please make sure that you have enough work to cover the entire class period. This work should not include crossword puzzles, or coloring pages. Focus on extensive writing and literacy skills.

LEAVING EARLY

If a teacher wishes to leave early, a Leave Early Form must be submitted to the principal for consideration no later than 8:00 a.m., unless an emergency arises. An approved leave early form must be on file in my office. If the request is not approved, the teacher must take a ½ day and secure a substitute teacher, if he/she still wishes to leave. Only emergency situations will be considered for approval by the principal. If someone leaves campus without the proper approval, disciplinary actions could be taken. This includes but is not limited to half days/whole days being taken from your accumulated leave to a pay cut for a half day/whole day. Please arrange for personal business and/or doctors’ appointments to be handled before or after school hours. Instructional planning time will be used for instructional planning purposes only. Permission to leave campus will not be granted during professional development training, enrichment/remediation, or scheduled team time. Personnel must clock out and sign the Sign-Out Sheet before leaving campus.

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES FOR STUDENTS

It is extremely important that teachers record and report accurate attendance daily this includes absences, tardies, and checkouts. Excessive tardies and absences must be reported to the schools’ attendance clerk, system’s attendance officer, and principal. Please follow these guidelines:

Daily attendance should be recorded in Chalkable no later than 9:30 a.m.

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A daily attendance report will be sent out no later than 10:00 a.m. Please review this list. If you find any discrepancies, report them to Mrs. Armstrong immediately.

The Birmingham City Schools Board of Education has requested that attendance be taken for every class by each teacher everyday in order to assure that we maintain accurate records that are available at all times. This includes absences, tardies, and early checkouts.

When fire or other safety drills occur, the teacher must take their attendance rolls with them to accurately account for each child he/she is responsible for.

ARRIVAL OF STUDENTS

Students should not report to school before 7:15 a.m. Teachers are liable if they require students to report to school before this time. All students should report to the lunchroom, the well, the band room, or the gymnasium upon arrival on the campus. Morning duty begins at 7:20 a.m. Please be on your post at this time. Students may not enter the lunchroom after 7:45 a.m. Students must remain seated until they are dismissed by a designated adult at 7:45 a.m..

STUDENT EARLY CHECKOUT

It is vital that you ensure that every adult visitor to your classroom has obtained a Visitor’s Pass from the Main Office. This is for the safety of everyone. Even if you know the parent, and they visit the school everyday, they must still follow rules and procedures. It is the responsibility of the school to maintain accurate and up to date records of all visitors/volunteers, especially if something unforeseen happens. This will be an easy task if we ALL abide by this rule. Please tell the parent, in a friendly tone, that they must sign in at the Main Office.

All students who check out must sign out in the Main Office. Parents may not go to the classroom first, obtain the child, and tell the teacher that they will stop by the office on their way out. Please follow these guidelines:

Students who check out will be called to the Main Office. If a parent insists on leaving with their child, call the Principal immediately. Any student leaving campus without being signed out in the Main Office will be

considered as leaving campus without permission. Students who check out excessively should be referred to the attendance

department. No student will be allowed to check out after 2:30 p.m.

SUPERVISION OF STUDENTS

Teachers are expected to be in class with students at all times. If an emergency requires you to leave the classroom, please request that a teacher next door or across the hall check on your class. Going to the copier does not constitute an emergency. All copies must be made during your respective planning time. All teachers are to escort their class during any class change (i.e. P.E, and/or Unified Arts), and also when a group of students have to go to the restroom. Teachers should not allow students to leave the classroom during instructional time, unless it is an emergency. Teachers are asked to walk in the middle of the line instead of the

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front or end. Any class that is not escorted will be turned around. In addition, please do not send students to the parking lot during school hours. If anything happens to them you will be held liable.

VISITORS

All visitors must stop by the office to get a visitors pass. No Exceptions! If you see a parent without a pass, politely ask them to come to the office, if they refuse, please contact the administrative or the security team. Please do not confront any visitor.

ASSEMBLY PROGRAMS

Please discuss appropriate behavior with your students before they report to the gymnasium. Teachers are to escort their class to all assembly programs. Any class that is not escorted will be turned around. Teachers are to sit with their students and monitor their behavior throughout the programs. Teachers should not sit in a corner gathered talking or texting on the phone. Any student who misbehaves should be reported to the administrator(s). Each class sit in their designated area. All assemblies must have the approval of the principal. It is the responsibility of the sponsor presenting the program to see that all details are completed for the assembly. Each chairperson or sponsor must submit the tentative agenda or layout two weeks prior to the event. Please be advised that teachers are expected to dress professionally and appropriately on program dates. This does not include jeans and sundresses.

LUNCHROOM DECORUM & PROCEDURES

Discuss appropriate behavior with your students before they report to the lunchroom. Students are to enter the lunchroom with their teacher, in a single file line, and are to remain in that line until they receive their lunch. Students are to retrieve all condiments, snacks, and other items before being seated. All students are to remain seated until dismissed by the teacher with their respective classes. Also, each class should return their trays and deposit trash as a group under the direction of the teacher. Please be aware of the time your class is scheduled to enter and leave the lunchroom. Please follow the time allowed for lunch. Students must leave with their class (unless they have been assigned clean up duty). Teachers should remind students how long they have before it is time to leave. All students should sit quietly and eat with their teacher. Teachers are responsible for supervising their own students throughout the time their class is in the lunchroom. Teachers must supervise their classes while they are in line. Teachers should not be seated until the last student has been served. The lunch line must be monitored at all times. All classes are required to leave their eating area clean and ready for the next class.

FIELD TRIPS

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Field trips that are planned by teachers must be approved in advanced by the principal. Please submit all typed field trip request forms to the principal in a timely manner, at least 30 days prior to the trip. Remember, the request must also be submitted to the Zone 3 Supervisor. Some field trips are scheduled by the school system, and transportation is provided. In all instances, field trip permission forms must be sent home and returned by every student who goes on the field trip. No student will be allowed to go on any field trip without a written permission slip from his/her parent(s) and an Arrington Middle School t-shirt . Teachers who take students on field trips that require them to miss other classes must give the principal a list of students who will be leaving campus at least twenty-four hours in advance of the trip. NO STUDENTS WILL BE PENALIZED FOR ATTENDING FIELD TRIPS. There should be one chaperone for every ten students going on the field trip. In addition to the teacher(s)/team going on the field trips, parents are to be included as chaperones. Teachers who are not on the sponsoring team of which the trip is planned, will not be allowed to go without the principal’s approval. (The field trip forms will be emailed on the first day of school to all personnel).

USING COMMUNITY RESOURCES TO ENHANCE LEARNING

Using community resources is a positive experience for both the community and the school. Every classroom teacher will be expected to invite .Guest Speakers to his/her class. This speaker should be an asset to a lesson or unit of teaching. For example, you may invite an author, banker, artist, engineer, veterinarian, athlete, etc.. This type of learning experience will be exciting and motivating for our students, which will ultimately increase student achievement.

FUND RAISING PROJECTS

Each student organization is allowed only one fund raising project a year. All school organizations should receive the principal’s permission for fund raising projects. Submit the request to have a fund raising campaign in writing to the principal. The request must provide the following information: name of the group, name of sponsor, date the campaign will begin and end, reason for the fund raising project, items to be sold, and specify how the money and the items sold will be handled, and security measures to be used. Students may not bring items from any outside group to sell at school. Our school system has a policy that forbids solicitation of employees while at work. Do not ask employees to buy anything being sold by any group, which is not affiliated with Arrington Middle School during school time.

LEDGER SHEETS

Every teacher will sign for and receive a ledger sheet when money is taken up. You are solely responsible for the ledger. Every time money is collected, it must be turned in to the office daily, and receipted in the Master Receipt Ledger. Teachers are responsible for funds until it is receipted in the Master Receipt Ledger. The teacher will be held solely responsible and liable for any lost funds that cannot be documented as receipted in the Main Office. Students must receive a receipt at the time they make a payment. Teachers must receive a receipt at the

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time they submit money in the Main Office. All receipt books must be turned in to Mrs. Edwards by 1:00 p.m. daily.

SCHOOL MONEY

All school money taken in by a teacher must be receipted and accounted for in the school office. Such money should be turned in to the bookkeeper daily and not allowed to accumulate. You are responsible for any money that you collect. This applies to all money collected for any reason. Teachers are responsible for replacing any and all funds for which they did not receive a receipt from the bookkeeper. DO NOT LEAVE MONEY IN CLASSROOMS UNSECURED OR OVERNIGHT. All money must be turned in to the bookkeeper daily. Money that is deposited in the school account, such as fee money and club money, must be spent through the use of local requisition/ purchase orders.

The bookkeeper will provide these forms, and will explain their use. An itemized invoice must be provided for all items purchased. When a teacher receives money from a student, they should either issue a receipt for the money, or in the case of lesser items such as library fines, keep a daily written record of the students who paid for such items. Teachers are expected to keep records of all money receipted by the bookkeeper. No money should be collected without prior approval from the principal.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES

Mrs. Edwards has been designated to sell school supplies. No teacher or other staff member should be selling supplies.

ACCIDENTS

Report all accidents to the administrator(s) immediately, and complete an Injury Report when a student receives anything other than a minor bump, scrape, or bruise. (See Forms Section) Do not allow a situation to become critical. Also, please contact the parent immediately to forewarn them before the student goes home. Bring a copy of the injury form to the Principal immediately.

PARENTAL CONFERENCES

Parental conferences should be held before/after school or on your planning time. However, they are not to be held when other meetings and/or remediation is scheduled. In emergency situations, there might be times when the principal will schedule a parental conference during class time. Make sure you have all proper documentation prepared for the conference. In the event a parent becomes irate, ask the nearest co-worker to step inside the classroom and send for the administrator/(s). If a parent becomes irate when called to schedule the conference, inform the administrator/(s) before having the conference. Make sure that you are positive with the parents, have documentation to help you support the purpose of the conference, use the Conference Form, and make sure the parent signs the document that the conference took place. (See Forms Section)

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STUDENT DISCIPLINE

Effective classroom management is necessary in order for the instructional process to take place. All teachers should have a set of classroom rules that should be consistent throughout the building and posted in the classroom. Please make sure that your discipline rules are stated positively, and are clearly communicated. Teachers are urged to send a copy home to the parents. Parents and students should read and sign a given form indicating they have received and read the classroom rules. Teachers are expected to be respectful and courteous when dealing with all students. Students are not to be sent into the hallway or any other area where he/she is unsupervised or forced to study under adverse conditions. Remember, if anything happens to a student while he/she is not being properly supervised, you are still held liable. Under no conditions must a teacher engage in name calling, using profanity, talking about students’ parents, arguing, shouting, or an obvious loss of emotional control in dealing with students. We must remain professional at all times. The administrator(s) will only handle cases dealing with Class II and Class III offenses (mainly extreme acts of violence and profanity towards a school board employee). All Class III offences, as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct, should be reported to the assistant principal immediately. Teachers will have to submit a detailed report, answering specific questions when fights occur in the classrooms. (See Forms Section) The discipline plan must include the following. Students will have:

The following Class I & II offenses will be directly addressed by the classroom manager (educator). These infractions may include the following actions:

o Excessive talkingo Reporting late to classo Uniform violationso The flagrant use of profanityo Refusing to leave an assigned area when instructed to do so (i.e. lunchroom, classroom)o Excessive disruption in the hallway, classroom, lunchroom, or other designated school

areaso Bullying- immediately contact the parent of the victim and the aggressor, document the

incident, and refer both parties to the counselor

1. Do not send students to the office without a write-up. In the event of a potential fight employ preventative and proactive measures immediately.

Separate the opposing parties. Send one of the students to another teacher’s class. Send a student if necessary to request assistance.

Contact the team leader to radio the security team (Coaches) or the Administrative team for assistance.

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2. Avoid offensive, taunting, or provoking behavior. Some of our kids have underlying issues that we may not know about. If you foresee conflict, or a need that should be addressed send a referral to the school counselor, or send for administrative assistance if the behavior is volatile or potentially threatening.

3. Do not withhold information that pertains to the safety of the students or the organization as a whole. Please report all important issues to the administrative team immediately.

4. If you have a student who has threatened harm to themselves or someone else, immediately contact the administrative team and the school counselor.

The following steps must be followed when relating to disciplinary issues. All actions must be documented on the official AMS discipline form only. No other written correspondences will be accepted.

Please do not send students to the office for staying too long at the water fountain. Actions such as these must be addressed on respective grade levels. (Utilize a teacher to teacher reassignment, or some other team developed consequence)

Write-up to administrator(s) (A complete Documentation Form must be provided)

If the situation is critical, please send it to the Administration immediately.

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We are required to follow the Birmingham City Schools Code of Student Conduct Manual. We will implement our school wide discipline plan and it will

coincide with the Code of Conduct.

The administrator(s) will provide a written or verbal response to the teacher indicating the results of the student write-up. (See Forms Section)

Teachers are to send the write-up, and not send or walk students to the office. The other students in your classroom must be supervised. The assistant principal will send for the student as soon as possible. If it is necessary for the student to be removed from the classroom, please use the “Buddy System” or the guidelines set in place by the Discipline Committee. The principal and assistant principal will set aside time to talk with and counsel those students who may be experiencing difficulty in the classroom setting. In this type situation the administrators will see students who may be disruptive, but have not committed a Class II or Class III offense.

Do not leave your classrooms to bring students to the office.

Reinstatements will occur in the morning or during teacher planning periods to ensure that all vested parties are present.

CORPORAL PUNISHMENT

Corporal punishment is no longer allowed in the Birmingham City Schools System. Alternative methods of discipline should be

used.

Note: There are some behaviors that warrant immediate suspensions (i.e. profanity, bullying, harassment, etc.) Please note that each write-up will be handled accordingly.

Classroom management should be preventative, not reactive.

SUSPENSIONS AND RE-ADMITTANCEWhen it is necessary for a student to be suspended from school, he/she must be

reinstated by the administrator/(s) and the parent or guardian must be present with the

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student. If a student does not have a re-instatement slip from the administrator/(s) send him/her to the office.

Do not allow a student to enter your classrooms without proper paperwork.

Discipline Committee

HALL PASSES

Students should not be in the hallway unless accompanied by a school employee or unless they have a hall pass. Place the time and destination to eliminate loitering and unnecessary travel. Any student in the hallway without a hall pass will be sent back to class. We must take advantage of all instructional time, therefore, it is imperative that our students stay in class at all times. Please inform students that if they must leave class to use the restroom, they must use the one that is close to your classroom.

FIRE DRILLS

The Fire Drills are designed for the protection of each student in the event of an emergency. During a fire drill a continuous series of short bells will ring and all students are expected to exemplify good discipline during the drill. Teachers are expected to accompany their students during the drill, and check your attendance cards in your hand. Make sure all students know where they are to go.

NOTE: In the event that a student is not with his/her class during the drill, he/she should follow the procedures of the particular location (restroom, library, etc.) and locate their regular teacher once they are outside.

TORNADO DRILLS

The Tornado Drills are designed for the protection of each student in the event of an emergency. During a tornado drill a continuous long bell will ring and everyone must move to their designated area in the building. All teachers are to remain with their students during the

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drill, monitor their behavior, and check your attendance cards in your hand. Make sure everyone knows the correct position during the drill. The correct position is as follows:

a. Face Interior Wallb. Crouch on elbows and kneesc. Hands over back of head

BOMB THREAT

If a bomb threat is received and the decision is made to clear the building, the principal or assistant principal will prompt the students and staff to exit according to the fire drill procedures. Emergency personnel will dictate the situation after that point. Proper procedures for handling a bomb threat can be found in the Safety Plan.

POWER FAILURE

In the event of a power failure, students are to remain quietly in their seats so that instructions can be given. Students in the hall are to stand still, cease talking, and listen for instructions from the teacher. Teachers who do not have a class should be in the hallways assisting where needed and passing along instructions from the office.

INCLEMENT WEATHER

When school closing occurs before students arrive, information about school closings will be sent to local radio and television stations at the earliest possible time. Each team leader will utilize the “Emergency Staff Tree” to notify their team members of a school closing. When school closings occur while school is in session, announcements will be made accordingly. All employees must remain at their assigned duties until the safe dismissal of students is accomplished. The Superintendent or designee will announce whether to continue the workday for employees, and the principal or designee will relay that information.

CLASS SCHEDUES

Class schedules should be posted outside of the classroom doors prior to the first day of school (August 5, 2016). The schedules should be typed, and a landscape format should be used. In addition, be sure the following items are visible.

Teacher Name Subject Room Number

The following items should be visible inside your classrooms: Common Core Standards/ACOS Standards Flow of the day I Can Statements

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Essential Questions District Priorities Reading Nook Quality Student Work posed with commentary Four Modes of Writing Fire/Tornado Drills Procedures School’s Mission Statement Class Rules (Developed as a Team) P.B.I.S. Current Word Wall Character Education Wall

COMMON CORE STANDARDS/ALABAMA COURSE OF STUDY STANDARDS

All teachers must have current courses of study for each subject taught. Teachers must become familiar with all objectives and skills of subjects they are responsible for teaching. The Alabama Course of Study/CCSS are minimum standard devices. Other resources and alternatives should be sought to enhance the teaching of the objectives and skills.

SEEK INNOVATIVE & CREATIVE TOOLS FOR TEACHING & LEARNING

LESSON PLANS

Everyone who is responsible for any type of teaching instructions to students will be expected to maintain Lesson Plans. Lesson Plans are to be readily available and up to date at all times. Components of a good lesson includes: an interesting introduction, guided practice, individual practice, closure, and assessment. All teachers (including P.E., and Unified Arts) must have weekly reading and writing assignments listed in his/her plans. Due to the consistent change of the types of students we teach, it has become necessary to change our style of teaching. We must provide engaging activities in the form of student learning centers. Differentiated Instruction activities are expected to be in your plans frequently.

All plans must be e-mailed to the administrators & the Curriculum Coach (Please see the

lesson plan submission dates for details). You will receive written feedback. Please keep hardcopies of your plans in your LESSON PLAN BINDER. Keep your Handbook on your desk. It may be necessary for OTHERS to make copies of his/her plans. In addition, lesson plans are to be placed outside of your classroom in order for the principal and assistant principal to know what to expect before entering your classroom.

We will systematically utilize the BCS district lesson plan format to completeall instructional plans. All content and Unified Arts teachers will utilize the districts lesson

plan template.

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All plans submitted are to cover a two week planning period with the exception of the last date of the year. Also, lesson plans due dates will be placed on the school’s monthly calendar. Everyone is expected to follow the schedule, and be prepared to discuss how your plans are developed.

Instructional Media is highly encouraged, However, movies and videos may not be shown for entertainment purposes. Videos should have educational value and an

enrichment activity. The activity must be included in your lesson plans. All videos must be pre-approved by the Administration before they are shown. (See Forms Section)

All lesson plans will be evaluated by the Administrative staff. Commendations, Feedback, and Suggestions will be forwarded to you in an ongoing process.

Again, All lesson plans must be emailed to the Principal, Assistant Principal, and the Curriculum Coach.

COURSE SYLLABUS

All teachers are expected to develop a Course Syllabus for each nine-week period. The purpose of the syllabus is to communicate expectations to parents and students. This planning and preparation allows for increased student achievement. Please follow the directions as outlined. Each Course Syllabus should include the following:

Overview of subject(s) Nine-week objectives Special projects Special events Academic/Content Vocabulary Classroom Discipline Plan Homework policies Grading policies/scale STI Teacher comments or notes Conference dates & time Signature lines for parent, student, and principal

Each syllabus should be creative and user friendly. Syllabus must be approved before they are copied and/or distributed to students. The due date for the first nine week syllabus is Wednesday August 9, 2017. Refer to the monthly calendar for the dates to submit syllabus to the office.

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CURRICULUM MAPPING

All teams will collaborate on lessons and activities. The goal is to correlate as much as possible across subject areas. This should maximize student learning by reinforcing skills and concepts over and over as a team. Your course syllabus should be your guide.

BCS Curriculum Guides

Student Portfolio Every student at Arrington Middle School will have a portfolio (folder) of demonstrations of learning, data, and other specified material. THESE PORTFOLIOS WILL

BE viewed by THE ADMINISTRATIVE TEAM and District personnel. Please make sure that you update portfolios weekly. Do not allow students to file papers.

Instructional Rounds

Instructional rounds are one of the most valuable tools that a school or district can use to enhance teachers' pedagogical skills and develop a culture of collaboration. The goal of instructional rounds is to provide feedback to the teacher being observed, and to discuss what takes place among observers at the end of the observation as well as in subsequent self-reflection.

Rounds will be facilitated by the Administrative Team and respective Central Office personnel. Instructional Rounds in Education are intended to help education leaders and practitioners develop a shared understanding of what high-quality instruction looks like and what schools

and districts need to do to support it.

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GRADES

The following scale will be used for assigning letter grades:

A 100-90 D 69-60B 89-80 F 59 and belowC 79-70

*The grading to be used is:

Homework 10% Projects 20%Test/Quizzes 30% Other (journals, notebooks, bell ringer, …) 10%

Classwork 30%

If the only assessments of students come from homework, test/quizzes, classwork, and projects, then add the 10% from the other category to an area of choice.

*This may change based on faculty needs.

MANDATORY……………………………An Academic Improvement Plan must be developed for every student who receives

a grade below 59 on his/her report card. Students who experience significant grade drops must be referred to PST (The problem-solving team).

PROGRESS REPORTS

A progress report is to go home to all students during the middle of each grading period. The board has designated dates to send progress reports home. Refer to your monthly calendar for the specified dates. Each teacher is to submit their progress report grades to the principal prior to the date they are to go home. Progress reports will be sent home on the following dates:

Progress Report Days Mid-Point September 4 November 9 February 8 April 6

Progress Reports Go Home September 8 November 13 February 12 April 9

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Also, make sure students are given Deficiency Reports as deemed necessary. Teachers should schedule conferences with parents, and send a list of no shows to the administrators.

Documentation of Deficiency Notices with parent signatures must be submitted before a grade of “F” can be given. Remember, that it is mandated that a student’s failure be submitted to

PST before a failing grade is given. Also, an Academic Improvement Plan must be developed for every student who receives a grade

below 59 on his/her report card.

A copy of all progress reports must be kept in each student portfolio.

REPORT CARDS

Report cards will be distributed every nine weeks. Please be sure to follow the due dates of grade submissions and other vital information. Grades will not be changed once they have been printed on the report card. In cases of a computer error, a Grade Change Form (See Forms Section) must be completed and submitted to the principal. Please bring your Grade Book to the conference. Students should sign for their report card, and a copy should be kept for the school’s records.

Report cards are due 3 days prior to the distribution dates.

Refer to the monthly calendar for the dates that grades are due to Ms. Armstrong. The dates that report cards go home are as follows:

October 16, 2017 March 16, 2018January 10, 2018 May 24, 2018

GRADE BOOKS/I-GRADE BOOK

All classroom teachers should maintain a grade book of students’ grades. These grades should be up to date and accurate. You are encouraged to record daily grades in pencil as the grades might change as a result of re-teaching skills that have not been mastered. The book should be easily read and understood by the principal, parents, and students in cases of conferences. The grade book, or back-up copies, should be kept at the school at all times in cases of unforeseen circumstances, which may cause grades to be destroyed. The administrators will check grades books periodically. The following checklist will be used to review grade books:

Grade books should reflect daily grades for activities (A minimum of nine grades per semester must be recorded.)

Grade books should be easy to interpret

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Grade entries should be identified (labeled) by specific skills or activities Progress Report average should be highlighted Final grade for each nine-weeks should be highlighted

STUDENT FAILURES

We must create opportunities for students to be successful, instead of allowing the event of failure. Our goal is to have zero failures. To help prevent students from failing, proper documentation and parent communication should be conducted, including PST documentation regularly. In the event that proper procedures are not followed, grades are subject to be changed.

CLASSROOM GUIDELINES

Teachers are expected to be in their classrooms at all times during instructional time.

Teachers are expected to be actively engaged and mobile during the teaching process.

Teachers are responsible for keeping their classrooms neat and orderly at all times.

Teachers are never to interrupt instructional time to answer or speak on the classroom telephone or cellular telephone.

Students may not be put outside the classroom for disciplinary reasons. School board policy prohibits such negligent behavior on the part of the teacher.

If a student must leave your room for inappropriate behavior, use the “Buddy System”. However, it is your responsibility to make sure that the student gets to the designated room.

LUNCH SCHEDULE

In order to provide smooth transitions, teachers must strickly follow the lunch schedule. Classes must be sure to enter at the designated time. Extra time will not be granted because of tardiness to the lunchroom. Lunch is not a duty free period, students must be supervised at all times during lunch.

PURCHASE ORDERS

Purchase Order forms must be typed on the appropriate requisition form. Please plan your purchases in advance. It is vital that you fully complete the form and provide the following information:

Account Balance Source of Funds Detailed descriptions of each item ordered (Do not use “” or SEE ATTACHED) Signature Threes Copies

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Vendor Information

Items purchased prior to receiving an approved purchase order will not be honored. An approved purchase order is one that has the principal’s signature. The teacher will be responsible for the balance. Items will not be considered for reimbursement. No refunds will be given. Board policy will not be compromised for any reason.

ITEMS FOR SIGNATURE APPROVAL

All written correspondence (letters, flyers, agendas, programs, etc.) from Arrington Middle School must have the signature approval from the principal before it is copied, distributed or posted. ABSOLUTELY NO EXPECTIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

EVALUATIONS

All faculty and staff members will be evaluated according to the current plan for evaluating teachers in Alabama. The cycle for full evaluations will be forthcoming. The principal reserves the right to place any teacher on full evaluation as he deems necessary. The administrator(s) will visit all classrooms throughout the school year to observe quality instruction of all teachers.

BULLETIN BOARD SCHEDULE

All classroom bulletin boards should be changed every nine weeks. All bulletin boards must reflect rigorous and relevant curricula. Bulletin boards should be used as teaching tools and student motivation. Each boards should reflect the various teaching units and involve students in the process. All boards should have a rubric to reflect the instructional strategies for each board. All boards should relate to a subject area and specific skill(s).

All bulletin boards must be updated as needed.

Student Recognition Board

Every member of each department will identify a student of the month on their departmental bulletin board throughout the building, with the exception of the month of August. Each teacher will write an explanation of why the student was chosen and his/her picture is to be placed on the board. All boards should be decorated by the 5th of every month. August boards should be prepared before the first day of school with a motivational slogan relating to your department.

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CHARACTER EDUCATION WALLS

Character Education will be an ongoing school-wide expectation. Good character is extremely important. Every classroom is expected to display Character Education Walls. These walls should consist of specific words that will be used throughout the school. There will be a school-wide character education theme each month. The school counselor will provide each teacher with a calendar and list of activities. You are expected to discuss good character traits and complete related activities that are related to the theme of the month.

MORNING DUTY SCHEDULE

ALL staff is expected to participate with Morning Duty, or afternoon duty.

If you complete morning duty, you do not have to do afternoon duty.

COPY MACHINE

Anyone wishing to use the copier must use it before or after school, or during your planning time. Do not use instructional time to run materials. One might consider coming to work a little earlier or staying a little late to plan properly. Also, please do not send students/volunteers to use the copier for you, and report any concerns to the secretary.

FACULTY/STAFF LOUNGE

The Faculty/Staff Lounge is intended for adults only. Please do not send students to the lounge to get paper, snacks, or any other items. Students should not run personal errands to retrieve snacks, ice, etc. Please feel free to offer suggestions if you feel the environment in the lounge can improve.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Announcements will be made twice daily. If have an announcement , please complete an Announcement Form (see Form Section) and submit it to the office no later than 8:00 a.m. on the date the announcement is to be made.

TEAM MEETINGS

Team meetings will take place on Tuesday’s, and minutes are to be submitted to the Principal. Expectations for team planning are as follows:

Decide on a team name if needed Write plans together –including field trips, guest speakers, etc. Discuss academic concerns and present possible solutions Discuss professional readings (Monthly) Discuss/present various teaching strategies

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Grade Level Team Leaders

DEPARTMENTAL MEETINGS

Department meetings will take place on the specified day(s) and minutes are to be submitted to the principal by the following people:

FACULTY MEETINGS

Faculty meetings will be held every first Monday of the month. If the first Monday is a holiday, then we will meet the second Monday. All faculty members are expected to attend these meetings. Faculty meetings are business meetings and should be treated as such. A Leave Early Form must be submitted for approval to the principal by 8:00 a.m. if a faculty staff member cannot attend a meeting. However, since meetings will be announced well in advance, it is expected for all faculty members to attend each meeting.

COMMITTEE MEETINGS

Please make plans to attend committee meetings that you are a part of. These meetings will be announced in advance, and they will be of importance. You may sign up for the committees that you prefer to work with, however it is the principals’ discretion to add or adjust committees.

EXCEPTIONAL EDUCATION

Homeroom teachers will be expected to review cumulative records of every student in his/her homeroom. Make note of every child who should receive special education services. Special education teachers will meet with you to discuss these students and develop/review IEPs. Students who receive special services should not fail any classes. IEP’s should be revised until they meet the students’ needs. It is imperative to conduct effective team meetings with special education teachers to ensure the success of these students.

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The resource teacher will have a schedule to work with Reading and Math teachers on every grade level. This could be a good time for small group instruction, team teaching, etc. The resource teacher may also employ intervention strategies with special needs students. All Cumulative Records should be reviewed before the last school date in August.

ACADEMIC PEP RALLIES

Encouraging and motivating students to be successful is important. We will recognize students for grades, conduct, etc., every nine weeks. Students may receive ribbons, certificates, etc. (Academic Pep Rallies). Please cooperate and assist when and where needed.

PROFESSIONAL READINGS

Teams are expected to read professional journals, books, or articles, at least once a month and discuss how the information received from them could be used to improve teaching and/or learning. This should be documented on a Team Documentation Form. Also, a Professional Readings Form should be completed. (See Forms Section) This form will be distributed to other members of the faculty in order to share the contents of your reading. Specific topics for research will be given on some occasions, and teachers will have opportunities to research pointsof interest on other occasions. Please do not hesitate to offer suggestions.

PST

PST is state mandated. Let’s make sure we comply with this mandate, and cooperate with team members. Submit names of failing students before given a grade of “F”. Comply with all recommendations made for every child. The team must consist of a grade level representative that attends the PST meetings. Meetings will be held monthly and will be announced in advance.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

There will be professional development opportunities offered this school year. The Birmingham City Schools Board of Education has adopted a Professional Development Policy. The Professional Development Team will assist all personnel in attaining the specified amount of hours. The administrative team will facilitate a job-embedded professional development

MEDIA CENTER

The Media Center should be used as a resource for classroom instructions. All classes are expected to use the Media Center and its resources to enhance lessons. All classes are expected to use the Media Center for special projects as needed. Teachers are expected to supervise their students in the Media Center, except on their planning time, unless small group instruction has been correlated with the Media Specialist. Please encourage students to check

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out books often. Students will attend circulation courses in the library. A schedule will be disseminated.

STUDENTS USE OF COMPUTERS

Students are not permitted to load software. Computers are not to be used during instructional time for playing games. Only those students who have turned in an Internet Access Parent/Guardian Permission Form are to be allowed to access the Internet.

FACULTY AND STAFF SUNSHINE FUND

We want to celebrate the successes of every faculty member, as well as comfort you during a time of need. We encourage all faculty and staff members to join the Sunshine Fund, by contributing $25.00 for the year. You will be notified as to when the $25.00 should be paid. Mrs. Spencer is the coordinator of this program.

CLASSROOM/OFFICE TELEPHONE USAGE

Telephones have been removed from the classroom this year. Please refrain from sending students to the office to call parents for uniforms and other disciplinary infractions unless they

are supervised by you.

INVENTORY

All students are responsible for the care and security of equipment in their possession. An accurate inventory must be maintained and kept on file. Teachers and staff will be held accountable for all items listed on their inventory. When teachers purchase items and/or equipment over $50.00, they must complete an Add to Inventory Form. (See Administrator (s) Also, when items are discarded, a Delete Items Form must be completed. A copy of these forms must be submitted to the principal on the same day items are received and/or deleted.

TEXTBOOKS

Textbooks will be issued through the library. All students will be responsible for their own books. Teachers are encouraged to conduct a bi-weekly book check.If students lose textbooks, please notify the Mr. Jackson by using the lost textbook form, and then send a copy home to the parent for signature. If the student does not return the notice, contact the parent and make the proper documentation.

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NEWSLETTER

The BULLDOG BEAT is magnificent. It is an excellent tool to communicate good news to all stakeholders. The newsletter will be published every nine-weeks. All teachers are expected to participate and strongly encourage students to participate as well.

KEYS

All teachers will sign for keys issued to them. Students should not be allowed to use or transport school keys. Some problems may occur with locks and doors as a result of students handling keys. Duplication of school keys is not allowed. Please report in writing, any lost or stolen keys to the principal immediately. A report must be completed along with a written explanation of what occurred. This information will be forwarded to the principal.

MAIL

Mailboxes are used for system correspondence dealing with the operation of Arrington Middle School. Students are not allowed to retrieve information from teacher mailboxes. If it is necessary for you to send a student to the office to check your box, you should instruct them to ask a member of the office personnel to get the information. Please check your office mailbox in the morning, during your planning period, and before you leave school at the end of the day.

OFFICE DECORUM

The Main Office is the main attraction that sets the tone for the rest of the school. It will be considered a business center and will not be a place of socialization for parents, teachers, or students. No one is allowed behind the counter. Do not use the back door (even when it is opened) to enter the Main Office. If assistance is needed from the office personnel, stop at the front desk.

Everyone must use the front door of the Main Office. Also, everyone should request the services of Mrs. Armstrong when entering the office. It is rude and impolite to walk behind the counter, disregard the office staff, etc. when seeking items or information. All visitors are not allowed to walk into the principal’s or assistant principal’s office without notifying the secretary.

FAX MACHINE

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The fax machine is intended for office personnel only. If you would like information relating to school and/or education faxed, please complete a form (See Forms Section) and leave the information in the principal’s box. The information faxed will be returned to your mailbox. The schools fax number is 231-1133.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT

It is the policy of the Birmingham City Schools Board of Education that it’s employees shall be able to enjoy a work place free from all forms of discrimination, including sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is unlawful under federal law and is specifically prohibited by the Board of Education. It will not be tolerated. Review the sexual harassment policy for more specific information. (See Forms Section)

FACULTY/STAFF DRESS

Teaching is a highly respected profession. All staff members are expected to dress in a professional manner. We are role models and should dress accordingly. Wrinkled, provocative, etc. clothing should not be worn to work. We should be conservative, neat, and clean. Jeans, warm-up suites, etc. may on Friday’s or announced causal days. We will have a spirit day on Friday including students to uplift the school pride. Go Bulldogs!

STUDENT DRESS CODE

The student dress code outlined in the Student Code of Conduct Book is to be strictly enforced by all teachers. In addition to the white shirts, students may wear blue, black, and khaki shirts as well. Also, students may wear navy blue, black, and khaki pants. Teachers should observe students as they enter the room to ensure that they are in proper uniform. Teachers should not send students to an administrator for uniform issues. Document the student’s name after the third violation, and send the form to the Assistant Principal.

AFTER-SCHOOL DISMISSAL PROCEDURE

All personnel should remain on post until 3:15 p.m. All teachers must escort their last period classes outside. Do not send your students out to be dismissed. Students should be dismissed at 3:00 p.m., and should not be kept after 3:05 p.m., unless parents have had at least 24 hour notice. In the event of inclement weather all men are to report outside, and all women will monitor, and clear the students out of the building.

Students who are walkers and riders must adhere to the following exits out of the building:

Sixth graders will be dismissed exiting out of the front door. Eighth graders will be dismissed by the P.E./Unified Arts teachers exiting out of the gym door and/door near the coach office. The 7th graders will be dismissed exiting out of the door leading to the side of the building nearest Ms. Williams’ and Mr. Madison’s classrooms.

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We will have students who will ride the bus to and from school. All bus riders will report to the gym and be seated until their bus arrives. We will designate specific areas for each

bus. This will be a monitoring responsibility for all staff.

Students who have to attend tutoring or practice for activities, must exit the building during dismissal and re-enter with the teacher. We would like to clear the campus ASAP. In order for the dismissal procedure to run smoothly, everyone must help with the supervision. Remember that Our Work Day Does Not End Until 3:15 p.m.

BUILDING/GROUNDS MAINTENANCE

Everyone must share in the responsibility of keeping our building/grounds clean and in good condition. As a faculty/staff member, it is expected that you keep your room in good order, keep the floor clear of books and clutter, and report any needed repairs and cleaning deficiencies to the principal (See Forms Section). Encourage our students to take pride in their school. Do not allow them to ignore paper or trash. Insist that they clean after themselves in your classrooms.

FOOD AND BEVERAGES

All food and drinks must be eaten in either the lunchroom or lounge. We want to eliminate bugs and rodents. Also, spills and soil are extremely hard to clean from the carpet. Please assist the custodial staff by abiding by this rule. Eating and drinking should never take place in the classroom.

CHILD ABUSE/DRUG ABUSE REPORTING

Our primary responsibility is to keep our students safe and free from harm. All suspected cases of child abuse must be reported immediately to the principal and counselor. These are the only personnel who are allowed to report suspected abuse from the school building site. The principal must be informed BEFORE any action is made from the school. Suspected drug use on school grounds must be reported directly to the Principal or the Assistant Principal.

SCHOOL COMMITTEES

Working together will help our school be successful. All faculty and staff members are encouraged to serve on various committees.

END OF YEAR EXPECTATIONS

Remove all items from walls and doors. Remove all clutter from floor, tables and desks. Remove all items from bulletin boards (hallways and classrooms).

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Properly cover computers and store software. Officially checkout any items or materials for off campus use. Cover all bookshelves. Properly store all textbooks in the library. Properly store and lock away all valuables. The principal must have a key for

every lock. Complete all items on the end of year checkout sheet. Submit the close of the school year form to the principal, Mr. Moss.

The end of the year checkout sheet must be completed, signed, and submitted by the end of the last day. Late checkouts are not acceptable.

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Arrington Middle SchoolNon-Negotiables

It is an expectation to stand at your doors to greet your students daily at 7:45 and beginning and ending each class period!

Current and implemented lesson plans Grades posted and updated weekly Acknowledgement and response to electronic communications Formative assessments utilized frequently to check for understand Report to work regularly and in a timely manner Make copies in advance for instruction Monitor hallways during transition Communicate student progress to students and parents Dress Professionally Have a professional knowledge about your students strengths, weaknesses, and

aspirations. Collaborate to peers to create a culture of lifelong learning Support school consistency by enforcing the BCS Code of Conduct Policies Physical and verbal abuse of students is a violation of board policy and will not be

tolerated. An emergency number must be on file for each student, in order to be able to

reach someone at all times. Please check this information on all completed enrollment cards.

Teachers may not call parents to request that they come get students. The principal or assistant principal are the only people authorized to make this request.

Students must be dismissed on time. Students are not to be held after school without prior permission from parents.

All adults must use the front door by the Main Office to enter and exit the building. This is a safety issue and will be taken very seriously when violated.

Personal phone calls must be made during your planning period. Teachers should not eat in front of the students. Mrs. Armstrong will not call subs for anyone.

I have received the Arrington Middle School Non-Negotiable document.________(Initials)

Arrington Middle School32 | P a g e

Non-Negotiables

Stand at your doors to greet your students daily Current and implemented lesson plans Grades posted and updated weekly Acknowledgement and response to electronic communications Formative assessments utilized frequently to check for understand Report to work regularly and in a timely manner Make copies in advance for instruction Monitor hallways during transition Communicate student progress to students and parents Implement the Big 6 Strategies Dress Professionally Have a professional knowledge about your students strengths, weaknesses, and

aspirations. Collaborate to peers to create a culture of lifelong learning Support school consistency by enforcing the BCS Code of Conduct Policies Physical and verbal abuse of students is a violation of board policy and will not be

tolerated. An emergency number must be on file for each student, in order to be able to

reach someone at all times. Please check this information on all completed enrollment cards.

Teachers may not call parents to request that they come get students. The principal or assistant principal are the only people authorized to make this request.

Students must be dismissed on time. Students are not to be kept after school without prior permission from parents.

All adults must use the front door by the Main Office to enter and exit the building. This is a safety issue and will be taken very seriously when violated.

Personal phone calls and must be made during your planning period. Teachers should not eat in front of the students. Mrs. Armstrong will not call subs for anyone.

I have received the Arrington Middle School Non-Negotiable document.________(Initials)

My signature indicates the RECEIPT, REVIEW, and ADHEREANCE to the Arrington

Middle School Teacher Handbook for the 2017-2018 school year.

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Teacher’s Signature:_____________________________________________ Date:_____

Principal’s Signature:____________________________________________ Date:_____

Assistant Principal’s Signature:____________________________________Date:_____

My signature indicates the RECEIPT, REVIEW, and ADHEREANCE to the Arrington

Middle School Teacher Handbook for the 2017-2018 school year.

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Teacher’s Signature:_____________________________________________ Date:_____

Principal’s Signature:____________________________________________ Date:_____

Assistant Principal’s Signature:____________________________________Date:_____

Notes:___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

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