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Middle School

Student Handbook

2016-17

Breck Middle School Handbook • 2016-17 [ 49 ]

August 2016

Dear Middle School Students,

I enthusiastically welcome you to the Middle School! For some ofyou, this is the fourth distribution of the Student Handbook and, forothers, this marks a first. However, the message for all of youremains the same: we are one big, caring community that is firmlyin place to support you. This Handbook should serve as a guide foryou as you navigate the Middle School.

The year ahead will provide you with an abundance of opportuni-ties to both fortify areas of interest and to delve into unchartedregions. In approaching these opportunities, I encourage you toboth ask and field questions, to seek and provide answers, to initi-ate new friendships and nourish existing ones, and to appreciatethe diverse experiences which members of our community bringon a daily basis. We are truly fortunate to have such a talentedgroup of people within our walls to help you find experiences thatwill allow you to feel successful, challenged, and respected.

The Handbook explains various aspects of Middle School life and provides you with a clear set of expectations: expectations that we have for you and that you may have for your Middle School experi-ence. Please take the time to read through the Handbook carefully,for your awareness of these expectations will be extremely helpfulas we work together throughout the year.

Sincerely,

Schuyler FauverMiddle School Director

[ 50 ] Breck Middle School Handbook • 2016-17

Breck Middle SchoolMission Statement

The Breck Middle School is designed to meet the needs of early adolescents as they experience the emergence of their own independence. It is a community in which this process of growth is respected, demanded and celebrated.

The following essential characteristics of the Middle School reflectour beliefs and values:

• engaging students in a challenging liberal arts curriculum;• directing the development of a sense of personal accountability;• offering the opportunity to make developmentally appropriate

decisions, take risks, succeed and fail in an atmosphere ofencouragement and support;

• promoting respect for self and others;• fostering a sense of security and stability through friendships

and membership in the Middle School community;• identifying opportunities for the expression of an ever-growing

social awareness and conscience;• helping students to appreciate and profit from the diversity

that characterizes the Breck community;• collaborating with students and their families to form a part-

nership that will contribute to the maturation of students;• encouraging each student to come to grips with his or her own

spiritual being and values; and• holding advocacy for adolescents at the center of all that we do.


Breck AdministrationEdward Kim . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Head of School

763-381-8206

Patrick Phillips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Assistant Head of School763-381-8177

Scott Wade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of Admissions763-381-8202

Peg Bailey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lower School Director763-381-8220

Schuyler Fauver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Middle School Director763-381-8212

Thomas Taylor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Upper School Director763-381-8209

Jonathan Nicholson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of College Counseling763-381-8248

Meredith Cook VanDuyne. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of Advancement763-381-8343

Mary Healy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of Human Resources763-381-8251

Wendy Engelman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Business Manager763-381-8217


Academic Department HeadsDonald Bell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . History Department Head

763-381-8350

Frank Eustis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . English Department Head763-381-8309

Princesa Hansen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Science Department Head763-381-8211

Merrill Harris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Physical Education Department Head763-381-8308

Emily Jones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Media Services Department Head763-381-8292

Alexis Kent. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Interim Religion Department Head763-381-8455

Daisy Pellant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of the Peter Clark Center763-381-8346

Brad Peterson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mathematics Department Head763-381-8269

Michal Sagar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Visual Arts Department Head763-381-8192

Sebastien Saunoi-Sandgren. . . . . . Modern Lang. Department Head763-381-8150

TBA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Performing Arts Department Head763-381-8369


Middle School AdministrationSky Fauver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Middle School Director

763-381-8212

Tod Dungan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dean of Students, Grades 5/6763-381-8264

Michelle Summer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dean of Students, Grades 7/8763-381-8265

Middle SchoolOffice Telephone Numbers

Carrie Jensen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Administrative Assistant763-381-8213

Debbie Schmitt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Office Assistant763-381-8213

Middle School Office Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 763-381-8134Middle School Attendance Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 763-381-8304


Middle School Facultyand Student Support Staff

Coreena Affleck Visual Arts 763-381-8252

Beckie Alexander Science 763-381-8335

Virginia Amundson Science 763-381-8195

David Birrow Percussion 763-381-8418

Michelle Bonderer Math 763-381-8121

Laura Burrows Math 763-381-8123

Sue Bydlon Media Generalist 763-381-8349

Risa Cohen Dance 763-381-8247

Mary Jane Curran English-History 763-381-8310

Oscar Diaz Spanish 763-381-8441

Tod Dungan 5/6 Dean of Students/ Project Adventure 763-381-8264

Schuyler Fauver Middle School Director/Spanish 763-381-8212

Sarah Flotten ’85 History 763-381-8347

Melissa Hanson Vocal Music 763-381-8369

Tom Hegg Drama 763-381-8102

Amy Iverson Physical Education 763-381-8254

Kathy Jensen Band Assistant 763-381-8143

Evan Jones ’86 Science 763-381-8291

Alexis Kent MS Chaplain/InterimReligion Dept. Head 763-381-8455

Ashley Kieger Spanish 763-381-8100

Angie Kritta Technology Coordinator 763-381-8284

Claudette Laureano Orchestra 763-381-8371

Alex Law History 763-381-8348

Sharon Mazion Vocal Music 763-381-8253

Rick Miller Math (On Sabbatical 2016-17)Michael Oden Math 763-381-8373

Justine Oesterle ’10 Science 763-381-8100

Katy Pearson MS Counselor/Ethics 763-381-8149

Jay Rainville Resource Instructor 763-381-8191

Dan Ratliff Science 763-381-8116

Byron Rice English-History /Project Adventure 763-381-8311

Justin Roberson Visual Arts 763-381-8193

Debby Rye Health 763-381-8331

Sebastien Saunoi French 763-381-8359

Katie Scherer English 763-381-8338

Michelle Shelp Project Adventure 763-381-8135


Kate Starns English-History 763-381-8336

Sarah Strong English 763-381-8338

Madison Styrbicki ’09 Math 763-381-8230

Michelle Summer 7/8 Dean of Students/Math 763-381-8153

Lan Tan Chinese 763-381-8152

Annalisa Tester ’10 Math/Science 763-381-8261

Jessica Wanless Spanish 763-381-8155

Charlotte Wheeler Band 763-381-8143

Amy Wright English-History 763-381-8329

Derek Yang Chinese 763-381-8440

Office Telephone NumbersClaire Blanchette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Support Services

763-381-8165Katy Pearson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Middle School Counselor

763-381-8149Brett Bergene . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Athletic Director

763-381-8257Jon Martin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Middle School Athletic Coordinator

763-381-8270Karen Kaverman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Health Center Coordinator

763-381-8241Mark Ryks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Director of Transportation

763-381-8218John Gray. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gym Store

763-381-8244


Academic LifeAcademic AwardsOur philosophy that academic, fine arts, and graded life skillsclasses are important in maintaining a balanced program forMiddle School students is reflected in our calculation of gradepoint average (GPA). In June, Academic Excellence Certificates arepresented to students in the sixth grade who have earned a GPAof 3.533 and above. At year’s end, in the seventh and eighth grades,Honors Awards Certificates are presented to seventh- and eighth-grade students who have earned grade point averages of 3.333 to3.666, and High Honors Awards certificates are awarded to thosewho have earned grade point averages of 3.667 and above.

Academic Probation Policyfor Seventh- and Eighth-Grade StudentsLevel I ProbationA seventh- or eighth-grade Middle School student will be placedon Level I Probation if, at the end of a semester, s/he fails a courseor has three grades of D+ or below. If after the next semester thestudent is still earning Level I Probation grades in any academicsubjects, s/he will be placed on Level II Probation.

Level II ProbationA student will be placed on Level II Probation if the student earnsany of the following combinations of semester grades:

2 grades of F1 grade of F and 2 grades of D+ or below4 grades of D+ or belowLevel I Probation grades past one semester

If after one semester on Level II Probation the student is still earn-ing any of the above combinations of semester grades in any aca-demic classes, the student will be subject to dismissal from Breck.

Students placed on Academic Probation at the conclusion of MiddleSchool will remain on Academic Probation in the Upper School. (SeeAcademic Probation in the Upper School section, page 120.)


Advanced ClassesAdvanced classes in math are offered in sixth, seventh and eighthgrades. Students are recommended for these classes by the depart-ment. A quarterly average below a B- may result in a change ofclass in order to better match course content with student need.

If a child requires tutoring to remain in an accelerated class, thedepartment may recommend the student change courses.

Advisory ProgramThe Breck Middle School Advisory Program ensures that each stu-dent has a formally appointed member of the faculty who willserve as an academic advocate. Advisors and their advisees meetfrequently to offer the opportunity to monitor academic progress,relay information from faculty, and to address issues and concernsthat are a normal part of Middle School life. Advisors will receiveinformation from their students’ classroom teachers as well ascopies of information that faculty have sent to parents. Advisorsprovide semi-annual letters that speak to various areas of students’development over the course of the year. Advisors may serve as thecontact person for parents to call if they have questions of a generalnature, and will communicate information, needs and concerns tothe parents of their advisees. Questions regarding a specific classshould be directed to the teacher.

AssignmentsWhether in school or absent, the student is expected to keep trackof his/her assignments. When absent, the student is advised tocheck online or call another student in the class to obtain theassignment and arrange for books and handouts to be broughthome.

It is the student’s responsibility to arrange times with specificteachers to make up quizzes and tests that have been missed andto turn in all completed work. Students are encouraged to ask forhelp if needed.


Chapel“Encouraging each student to come to grips with his or her own spiritual being and values,” is a key element in the Breck MiddleSchool Mission Statement. Chapel is the place and program mostclearly associated with this ambition, but it would not be accurateor appropriate to say that the Middle School restricts matters of theheart or spirituality to a single place or program in the school.

Middle School Chapel will usually be held twice during the week.Once a month, an All-School Chapel is held for the whole communi-ty. All students and faculty attend Chapel programs. Books, schoolsupplies and outerwear are not to be brought to Chapel. Respect forthe sanctity of Chapel is expected, as is quiet movement into andout of the Chapel area. Communion services are offered at certaintimes a year for those who wish to participate.

Community MeetingCommunity Meeting takes place in the theater. It allows membersof the Middle School Community to celebrate individual, class andteam accomplishments, ask questions of importance, provide help-ful information, and address issues of concern in a town meetingforum.

Community ServiceThere are two general types of community service opportunities inthe Middle School:

• Grade-Level Service Days— Each grade level is involved in com-munity service projects during the year. Faculty and studentsdetermine the service sites at a given grade level.

• Local or Special Projects — In the course of the year, there areusually several specifically focused community service efforts.These have included the stocking of food shelves, clothingdrives and efforts such as disaster relief. These are moved moreby the collective awareness and conscience of the MiddleSchool community than by any particular individuals within it.Often, Community Meeting has been used as a forum for gen-erating participation and contribution. Interests in such proj-ects should be directed to the Middle School Administration.


Daily AnnouncementsStudents will receive a copy of the daily announcements via emailat some point in the morning and are expected to be aware of mat-ters affecting them.

ExamsWe introduce the concept of semester exams in the seventh grade.Seventh graders take tests that cover the second semester inEnglish, modern language, history, math and science. In the eighthgrade, students take exams at the end of each semester. Examsacknowledge cumulative learning and help to prepare studentsand give them the sense of confidence to take longer, more chal-lenging tests in Upper School.

Grade PortalThe grade portal is open to Middle School students and their par-ents as a way of providing access to academic progress.

Teachers can be expected to have their grade books updated on the15th and 30th of each month (or February 28th).

The teachers’ and advisors’ comments are very important. Studentsshould take pride in their compliments and enjoy them, just asthey should give careful attention to suggestions for improvingclassroom work. If more explanation is needed, students shouldspeak with the teacher. There are many components that maymake up the grade, depending on the course: quality of writtenand/or oral work, classroom participation, homework and practice,tests, and effort. Always remember that grades are earned. They arenot gifts.


Grades mean:

A Outstanding level of performanceA = 94-100%A- = 90-93%

B High level of performanceB+ = 87-89%B = 83-86%B- = 80-82%

C Satisfactory level of performanceC+ = 77-79% C = 73-76%C- = 70-72%

D Needs to improve in performanceD+ = 67-69%D = 63-66%D- = 60-62%

F Indicates unsatisfactory level of performanceF = 59% and below

I Incomplete work

HomeworkHomework is work assigned for completion outside of class. It willbe an important part of a student’s life. The amount of time spenton homework will increase when students miss classes, do not useclass time appropriately, and/or need extra practice.

Also, there are those times when athletics, performance evenings,family activities, and religious celebrations require students to planahead so that they may manage their academic work outside ofschool. Developing the right approach to organizing and doinghomework is crucial. Students should know that there are manypeople in the Middle School eager to help in this effort. While facul-ty will try to pace their assignments and expectations, it is the stu-dent’s responsibility to let them know when help is needed.

Students will occasionally have time in class to begin homework,and they should take advantage of this opportunity! If a studentdoes not understand the assignment, he or she will have thechance to ask questions and get help so that the assignment can bedone properly.


Fifth and sixth graders can expect an average of 15 to 20 minutes ofhomework each night for each academic area, as well as an occa-sional assignment from other teachers. Book reports and long-termprojects will be assigned sufficiently in advance. Students and theirteachers will work together on time management.

Seventh and eighth graders can expect an average of 20 to 30 min-utes of homework each night for each academic course, as well asan occasional assignment from other teachers. Long-term papersand projects will be assigned sufficiently in advance, and studentsare expected to budget their time accordingly.

LaptopsBreck’s “Acceptable Use Policy” is given to all students at the start of the year and is included in the All-School Policies section of thisHandbook. Students are expected to read as well as understand this policy.

Computer security—students are responsible for safe-guardingtheir laptops. This includes making sure students have their laptopswith them or have them in a secure place. For those students par-ticipating in after-school activities, the expectation is that they willeither leave their laptops in their locked locker or leave them withan adult, but never unattended.

Passwords are provided to students who are urged to keep themprivate to ensure greater security.

Non-Academic TimesNon-academic periods throughout the week are used forCommunity Meetings, Middle School Chapel, special events, grade-level meetings, special help sessions, study time, Advisory meet-ings, and recreational activities. These are also times when clubssuch as CAFE, the Chapel Planning Committee, and the StudentLeadership Council may meet.

Summer CourseworkStudents who fail classes for a year may be asked to attend sum-mer school to make up the coursework before entering the nextgrade level at Breck School.


Schedule / Calendar / EventsAll-School Chapel ScheduleSeptember 6October 4November 1December 6January 17February 7March 7April 11April 24May 9

CampsWednesday, August 31 Grade 5 Camp On-Campus and

Family Picnic (6:00 PM)Grade 6 leaves for camp

Friday, September 2 Grade 6 returns from camp

Conferences(Student attendance required)October 6 Parent/Student/Advisor Conferences

12:00-8:00 PMOctober 7 Parent/Student/Advisor Conferences

8:30 AM-4:00 PMMarch 2 Parent/Student/Advisor Conferences

4:00-8:00 PMMarch 3 Parent/Student/Advisor Conferences

8:30 AM-4:00 PM

Dress-Up DaysNovember 23 Grandparents’ DayJune 5 Middle School Closing


Holidays and Faculty Workshop DaysSeptember 5 Labor DayOctober 6-7 Parent/Student/Advisor ConferenceOctober 20-21 Faculty WorkshopNovember 24-25 Thanksgiving VacationNovember 28 Faculty WorkshopDecember 19-January 2 Winter VacationJanuary 16 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. DayFebruary 17 Faculty WorkshopFebruary 20 Presidents’ DayMarch 2-3 Parent/Student/Advisor Conferences

(No school March 3 only)March 20-31 Spring VacationApril 14 Good FridayMay 29 Memorial Day

Middle School Parents Association CoffeesMeetings/Coffees occur the on following Wednesdays at 8:15 AM:

October 26January 25

Non-Uniform DaysSeptember 16 Homecoming—blue and goldOctober 28 Non-uniform dayOctober 31 Costume dayNovember 18 Non-uniform dayDecember 16 Non-uniform dayJanuary 27 Non-uniform dayFebruary 14 Red/white/pink dayFebruary 24 Non-uniform dayMarch 17 Green and white dayApril 28 Non-uniform dayMay 26 Non-uniform day


Opening Days for SportsAugust 15, Grades 7-12 Girls swim & diveAugust 22, Grades 7-8 MS FootballSeptember 6, Grades 7-8 Soccer, girls tennis, & volleyballOctober 31, Grades 7-12 Girls hockey November 14, Grades 7-8 MS boys basketball, MS girls basketballNovember 9, Grades 7-12 Nordic & alpine skiing, gymnastics,

boys hockeyNovember 28, Grades 7-12 Boys swim & diveMarch 13, Grades 7-12 Softball, track & fieldMarch 20, Grades 7-12 Boys golf, girls golfMarch 27, Grades 7-12 Boys tennisApril 3, Grades 7-8 Girls lacrosse, boys lacrosse

Other Important DatesAugust 25 New Family Reception and Student

OrientationSeptember 13 MS Parent Back-to-School NightSeptember 19 MS student picture day September 17 Homecoming Barbecue

Blessing of the AnimalsSeptember 21 All-Middle School pictureOctober 14 Grades 5-6 and 7-8 SocialsOctober 17 Student picture retakesOctober 31 Halloween Costume Day November 23 Grandparents’ DayDecember 16 Middle School Skating DayJanuary 17 Martin Luther King Jr. Day CelebrationJanuary 18-20 Grade 7 Wolf Ridge TripMarch 2-3 Parent/Teacher/Student ConferencesApril 7 Grades 5-6 SocialMay 25 Grades 7-8 Year-End PartyMay 31-June 4 Grade 6 Washington DC TripJune 2 Middle School outingsJune 5 Middle School Closing Ceremony

TBA Middle School Ski DayTBA Middle School Awareness Day


Grade-Level Parent MeetingsGrade 5 Wednesday, October 5, at 11:30 AM

Wednesday, February 8, at 6:30 PMGrade 6 Friday, October 14, at 11:30 AM

Wednesday, May 17, at 6:30 PMGrades 7-8 Monday, October 17, at 11:30 AMGrade 7 Wednesday, April 19, at 6:30 PMGrade 8 Tuesday, January 31, at 6:30 PM

Performance EveningsDecember 2 7:00 PM Middle School Choral ConcertDecember 5 7:00 PM Middle/Upper School Band ConcertDecember 6 7:00 PM Middle/Upper School Strings ConcertDecember 9 7:00 PM Middle/Upper School Dance ConcertApril 21 7:00 PM Middle/Upper School Dance ConcertApril 26 7:00 PM Middle/Upper School String FestMay 9 7:00 PM Middle School Choral ConcertMay 12 7:00 PM Middle School Band ConcertMay 19-20 7:30 PM Middle School Musical May 21 2:00 PM Middle School Musical Matinee

Semester End DatesDecember 16 First SemesterJune 2 Second Semester


Behavioral Expectations and PoliciesAbsences and TardiesA student’s attendance is critically important to us. It is also themost important contributor to success in the Middle School. Thereis no substitute for being in class. Both students and classmatessuffer when a student is not in class. The Middle School expectsthat there will not be absences for additional vacation time for per-sonal convenience and that students will make daily attendancetheir highest school priority. Students who are not present theentire school day will not be able to participate in socials, athleticpractices and games, or other co- and extra-curricular activities (i.e.,rehearsals or performances). Exceptions may be made for medicalappointments or family emergencies only.

Absence Agreement FormThose students who must miss school need to complete anAbsence Agreement Form with faculty, have it signed by parentsand a dean or the Middle School Director, and return it to the officeprior to departure. Otherwise, make-up opportunities may not beavailable. It is important to note that completion of an AbsenceAgreement Form requires consultation and planning with teachers.Please plan accordingly and make sure that sufficient time isallowed to prepare and submit the form for approval.

Excessive AbsencesStudents with excessive absences from school or from a particularclass (five or more per quarter) will be referred by faculty membersto the Dean of Students, who will contact the students’ parents. A student who is absent for ten school days or more during thesemester will receive credit for the semester only upon review ofthe circumstances of the absences and the final level of achieve-ment in each of the student’s courses. This review will be done bythe student’s teachers and the Dean of Students who will make arecommendation to the Middle School Director.

Excessive TardiesExcessive tardiness will be reported to the Dean of Students. The student’s parents may be notified and disciplinary action may result.


Excused AbsencesExcused absences are defined as the following:

• Students become ill or are injured;• Have a family emergency;• Have a verified dental or medical appointment;• Have completed a Middle School Absence Agreement Form

and submitted it to the Middle School office prior to departure;• Have other reasons approved by the Dean of Students.

If a student will be absent from school, arriving late, or leavingearly, please call the Middle School Attendance Line 763-381-8304with the information. If your child is ill, we need to know the symptoms to report to the Health Center.

Unexcused AbsencesUnexcused absences are defined as the following:

• Coming to class 15 minutes or more after the start of the classis considered an unexcused absence unless the student has apass from a teacher in order to be excused (all tardies requirepasses).

• Skipping a class is considered an unexcused absence and mayresult in suspension and no credit earned for the work due inthat class.

Extended AbsencesIn the event that a student is absent from school for an extended period, communication with the student’s Dean is paramount. Ifthe absence is planned, the student’s parent or guardian will meetwith the Dean, prior to the absence, to establish a common under-standing of the school’s expectations regarding the coverage andcompletion of material missed. In the case of an unforeseenabsence, the parent or guardian will meet with the Dean to discussa plan for re-entry that will best meet the student’s needs.


Academic HonestyIn the fall, teachers discuss academic honesty, including plagiarism,with students and establish their own policies on cheating including what constitutes the difference between collaborative/cooperative learning and cheating. Students are responsible forunderstanding what constitutes plagiarism and other forms of academic dishonesty; ignorance is not an excuse.

Cheating Cheating includes:

• Turning in work that is not the student’s own;• Not collaborating on a paper or project where all members

are responsible and claiming credit;• Copying someone else’s work or allowing someone to copy

the student’s work;• Sharing or acquiring test information except as allowed by

teachers;• Using crib sheets for exams except as allowed by teachers; and • Other behaviors judged dishonest by the school.

PlagiarismPlagiarism, the misrepresentation of the original author’s ideas as one’s own, is a serious form of academic dishonesty. You avoid plagiarism by documenting the words and ideas of otherswhen you use them in your writing. The following are forms of plagiarism:

• Presenting someone else’s idea but not documenting it (so theidea seems to be yours);

• Presenting someone else’s words without documenting them(so they seem to be part of your own writing); and

• Quoting someone else’s words—perhaps even documentingthem—but failing to use quotation marks.

Students who cheat or plagiarize on an assessment may beassigned a grade as low as “0”; additional consequences may bedetermined by Breck administration.


After-School PolicyAfter school, seventh-and eighth-grade students are invited to participate in Middle School interscholastic sports, and fifth-andsixth-grade students may participate in the Mustang IntramuralProgram (MIP). Students may stay after school for extra help withfaculty or for music lessons. If students stay for extra help, they willneed to check with the appropriate faculty member as to theiravailability. Due to faculty meetings, the faculty is not available for extra help on Tuesdays.

An after-school study room is available to students and supervisedevery day from 3:40-5:30 PM. Students remaining in the buildingafter 3:40 PM who are not working with a teacher are expected tobe in the after-school study room until a parent picks them up orthey take the Activity Buses. If students are in another part of thebuilding, they will call their families to arrange for immediatetransportation home. If a student is disruptive in the after-schoolstudy room, the family may be contacted to come pick up theirchild, and the child will not be allowed to remain after school forthe remainder of the year.

Classroom BehaviorA student who is disruptive in a class may be asked to report to theMiddle School office where s/he will meet with an administrator.Additional offenses may result in a range of responses, from workdetail to suspension, as deemed appropriate by the administration.

Clean Hall PolicyBackpacks/bags are not to be used during the school day.Backpacks/bags that are used to transport books and materials toand from school should be unloaded in the hallway lockers at thebeginning of the day, and the backpacks/bags themselves shouldbe stored in the classroom cubbies in their advisors’ rooms. At theend of the day, those materials that are needed at home may bepacked for the trip, and those that are not needed may be kept atschool. Students in all four grades will work with their advisors andgrade-level faculty to develop organization systems to serve themat the beginning of the school year.


All personal belongings at school must fit into the hallway lockersand classroom cubbies. Oversized items such as downhill andcross-country skis, musical instruments and hockey bags should be stored in locations designated by the deans. The hallways andMiddle School Student Commons are to be kept clear.

Disciplinary ConsequencesThe administration handles violations of the Middle SchoolContract and General Building Rules on a case-by-case basis. Whenthese are not met or followed, any or all of the consequences indicated below may be earned. It is the responsibility of all members of the Middle School community to know and understand what is expected of them.

The following chart reflects a general series of steps taken inresponse to violation of school rules or expectations. Please notethat serious violations may result in immediate suspension orexpulsion.


SuspensionSuspension from school is assigned only when necessary, and in consultation with the Middle School Division Director. When a student frequently or seriously violates the social contract, buildingrules, or is academically dishonest, time away from school to planneeded changes in behavior may be necessary. When a student issuspended from school, daily assignments may be done and sub-mitted for credit upon return. In addition, students may be requiredto write a reflection paper to address one’s behavior and plans forimprovement.

ExpulsionWhen serious misbehavior occurs (either academic or personal) or a student repeatedly contributes negatively to the environment,it may be time for a student to seek another school. Sometimes, we are simply not the right fit for every student we accept. If thattime comes, parents will be asked to withdraw the student, or the student will be expelled. This action is taken only in the mostserious of cases, and only in consultation with the Head of School.

DressAll students are expected to maintain a neat, clean, and appropriateappearance at all times. This means wearing uniform clothing ingood condition. Students who abuse the dress code may beremoved from the regular schedule, or their parents may be calledto bring appropriate clothing to school.

ElectronicsCell phones, hand-held video games, and other electronics are prohibited during school hours (8:30 AM-3:15 PM). Their use is disruptive to the daily operation of school. If used, they will be confiscated for a period of time determined by the deans or division director and must be picked up by a parent or guardian.Electronics are not permitted in the Commons between 8:00 and3:30 unless use is assigned by a teacher during class.


General Building Rules• Students will wear the Middle School uniform and do so prop-

erly. Please refer to the section on “Dress” (above).• Students will be on time and prepared to contribute to

classes. • Students will not run in the halls or roughhouse.• Students will not chew gum.• For safety reasons, students are not allowed behind the

building, in parking lots, on the practice fields, or in the gymnasiums without supervision or permission.

The Middle School Social ContractMembership in the Middle School community presumes a commit-ment to respectful, honest, and responsible behavior. Certainly academic skills and intellectual growth are at the heart of what we are as a school, but as a school we are also deeply committed tomodeling, teaching, and reinforcing attitudes and behaviors thatreflect the high regard we have for ourselves, each other, the workwe do together, and the place in which we gather to do it. TheMiddle School is a place in which we may learn and practice appropriate social interactions and feel encouraged and supportedin our efforts. The following are the six expectations of the socialcontract we make with each other at the beginning of each year:

• We will have respect for self and others.• We will have respect for personal and community property.• We will be respectful in our use of language.• We will exhibit academic integrity.• We will be honest with each other.• We will be responsible for our actions.


Permission Forms / Field Trips / Student-Parent WaiverIt is part of Breck School’s program to conduct field trips, campingexperiences, and programmatic activities away from the Breck campus. Recognizing this, the school requires that a Breck Schoolstudent/parent waiver be signed by parents/guardians at thebeginning of each year. This form is part of the enrollment contractand gives permission for students to participate in normal fieldtrips.

A specific permission form will be sent for those events involving a charge for the event or any expectation of parents (i.e., trans-portation needs). Failure to return such a signed permission formmay result in a student not being able to participate in the trip.

Signing In and Out of SchoolRules for late arrival and/or early departure:• Students arriving at school after 8:30 AMmust have a note of

explanation (or be accompanied by a parent) and sign in at theMiddle School office where they will be given a pass to class.

• Students planning to leave campus before 3:15 PM must sign out.Students may present a note to the office before 8:30 AM, parents/guardians may notify the office by calling 763-381-8213, or students may be signed out by a parent in the office.

• Students who become ill during the school day may NOT maketheir own arrangements to leave campus. They should report tothe Health Center for assistance.


Uniform CodeOfficial Breck uniforms may be purchased at the following stores:

• Donald’s Department Store972 Payne Avenue, St. Paulwww.donaldsuniform.com

• Donald’s West6407 City West Parkway, Suite 104, Eden Prairiewww.donaldsuniform.com

• Educational Outfitters6002 Excelsior Blvd., St. Louis Parkwww.educationaloutfitters.com

Both stores will have a listing of the Breck uniform and we ask thatthere be no substitutions of suppliers or clothing. The uniform consists of the following:

• khaki pants and shorts (length no shorter than the top of thekneecap);

• short-sleeved or long-sleeved polo shirts in navy or white, withbanded bottom — shirts worn under uniform shirts must betucked in and, if long sleeved, they must be either navy blue or white;

• Be A Mustang t-shirt (distributed at school);• a pleated, plaid skirt (length no shorter than the top of the

kneecap); • footwear must be predominantly brown or black (no slippers,

sandals, or boots).

Optional items:• Quarter-zip sweatshirt with embroidered Breck logo• Belt, and• Black or blue leggings under a uniform skirt.

All students must be in uniform while on campus during theschool day. *Non-uniform clothing must be placed in lockers beforefirst hour. Students may wear additional outerwear during Lunch/Activity, but must return to full uniform when returning to classes.


Hats and other headwear are only allowed outside the school building, including non-uniform days. The Parents Associationholds ReUse Uniform Sales several times throughout the schoolyear.

The 2016-17 ReUse Uniform Sale dates are:

Thursday, August 25, 1:00-5:00 PMThursday, October 6, 12:30-5:00 PMFriday, October 7, 9:00 AM-NoonThursday, March 2, 12:30-5:00 PMFriday, March 3, 9:00 AM-Noon

Non-Uniform DaysThe last Friday of each month is typically a Non-Uniform Day in the Middle School. Non-Uniform Day attire is clean clothing in good condition, slacks or jeans, skirts or dresses, t-shirts and collared shirts, shorts (mid-thigh length or longer), shoes (no open-toed shoes or flip flops) or athletic footwear.

Occasionally, special events such as Homecoming, Halloween andfield trips will dictate non-uniform attire particular to those events.In these cases, the recommended attire will be announced inadvance to those affected.

General• Inappropriately tight or short clothing will not be permitted.• Clean clothes without holes are required.• Exposed shoulders or midriff is not allowed.

Ordinarily, dress that attracts undue or negative attention or which infringes on the rights or values of others is not consideredto be in the spirit of the dress code. Determining whether clothingis too suggestive or unkempt is at the discretion of the school. If the clothing is deemed inappropriate by the Middle SchoolAdministration, the student will be asked to change clothes or the parent will be called.


Dress-Up Day AttireCertain days during the school year are designated “dress-up” days.These days include Grandparents’ Day and the day for ClosingExercises/Graduation. On these days, appropriate dress includessport coat, tie, sweater, dress pants, a dress or skirt, dress shirt anddress shoes.

Physical Education ClothingGym clothing will be distributed during the first days of school. Allclothing will be marked with students’ names as it is sold. Requireditems for all students are: gym shorts with the Breck insignia, gymshirt with the Breck insignia, and plain gray, navy or white sweat-pants. Required items that may be purchased elsewhere are gymsocks, gym shoes, and swimsuits.


CommunicationAcademic and Behavioral CommunicationThere are two types of general communication that may comefrom teachers and administrators: academic and behavioral. Theymay be used to indicate excellence in any area a teacher chooses to mention, or to notify parents of noteworthy behavior. The communications may also indicate that a student needs help.Typically, but not exclusively, they are sent when a student’s average falls below a C-, or if a student scores below the C- level on a test, project, or paper, or gets behind in work.

Middle School parents are encouraged to discuss matters of concern about their children’s school performance or any otherschool-related issue with the appropriate teacher, advisor or Middle School administrator. Parents with academic or classroom-related concerns should first contact the teacher of the individualcourse. Parents with concerns across several courses or activitiesmay wish to contact the student’s advisor in addition to the teacheror teachers involved. For questions involving school policies, or forfurther clarification or discussion, parents may contact the Dean ofStudents. In addition, concerns or questions regarding curriculumand course content may be directed to the head of that academicdepartment.

We encourage communication between parents and teachers. Tospeak with a teacher or administrator, please call their voicemaildirectly. If a teacher or administrator is not available, please leave a message with suggested times when the call may be returned.Teachers and administrators will return parents’ calls as soon aspossible.

EmailTeachers frequently use electronic communication with families. For parents or students looking to access faculty emails, they are located in the Breck Directory and on the Breck website.

Email Bulletin BoardsThe Communications department sends out weekly email BulletinBoards to current parents on Thursdays during the school year.These emails list Breck events and points of interest.


Parent/Advisor/Student ConferencesParent/Advisor/Student Conferences are scheduled for two days in both October and March. Conference opportunities are offeredboth during the day and in the early evening hours in order to meet a variety of family schedules. Conferences include the stu-dent, members of the student’s family, and the student’s advisor.Parents will sign up for conferences using an online registrationsystem. A mailing to parents before each conference date will give instructions for accessing the system. Please respect the time reserved for these important conversations about your child.

An expectation for conferences is that families utilize the designated days.

Telephone MessagesA student’s daily schedule in the Middle School is a busy and geographically diverse one, and that makes it very difficult to deliver messages personally. As most messages have to do withafter-school plans, we recommend family discussion of such plansbefore students leave for school in the morning. If a message needsto be delivered to a student during school hours, we ask that youcontact the Middle School Office no later than 2:30 PM.


Extracurricular ActivitiesGrades 5 and 6 Intramurals (MIP)The Mustang Intramural Program (MIP) will begin by the second orthird week of each quarter. These groups meet two or three days aweek after school.

AthleticsInformation about Breck’s Athletics programs for students ingrades 7-12 may be found on page 149 of this Handbook.

Middle School SocialsSocial activities are organized throughout the school year. Theyrange from all-Middle School events to events for a particular gradelevel or even a single class. Typically, fifth and sixth graders enjoyFriday afternoon events such as bowling, roller-skating, pizza andmovies, and seventh and eighth graders have their socials (parties,attending school performances, etc.) on Friday evenings. MiddleSchool Socials are intended to promote friendship, playfulness,recreational activity, and community building. Information regard-ing the social and appropriate attire will be provided prior to theevent. They are intended to be for our Middle School students.Guests are not to be invited without prior approval of a Dean ofStudents. Families are asked to be on time when picking up their children from socials.

Private PartiesFamilies are encouraged to think carefully about the size of private,social get-togethers. It can be awkward for the focus of a party toturn toward who is not going or has not been invited. As a generalrule of thumb, once the majority of a grade level is invited to anevent, the dynamics of the grade would benefit from the wholegrade being invited. Navigating the waters of friendship formationscan be tricky, so we would encourage ongoing sensitivity to thefeelings of all members of the Middle School community in plan-ning private parties. Invitations for parties that include only somemembers of a class should not be distributed at school.


Student Support ServicesA number of resources exist at Breck to support student learningand social/emotional development. We believe it is important toprovide the necessary structures for students to move forward aslearners and as healthy young people.

Academic ResourcesMembers of the guidance team meet to discuss student needs andlearning issues. A plan may be developed to support academicprogress, emotional well-being and/or behavior skills, identifyassessment needs, and assist families in accessing communityresources.

Extra-Help SessionsStudents are welcome to ask their teachers if they may stay forextra help. Tuesday is NOT a good day to plan to stay due to facultymeetings. Here is what students must do:

1. Arrange in advance to stay after school with a teacher.2. Set a time, date, and arrange for transportation. Parents are

encouraged to pick up students immediately after extra help sessions, or students, if they live close enough, may walk orbike home with a parent’s permission.

3. Be there, and be ready for work!

Student Planners and Electronic CalendarsAll Middle School students are asked to keep track of their variouscommitments at school and, if they choose, at home as well.Depending on the grade level, the two manners of doing so are theMiddle School Student Planner (a Breck-specific assignment bookissued to grades five and six and optional for grades seven andeight) or use of an electronic calendar, such as Google calendar.Regardless of the method, students are expected to either refreshtheir eCalendar or update their Planners on a daily basis.


Learning ConsultantBreck School is committed to helping students be successful by providing appropriate services needed to accommodate individualswith learning and cognitive-related disabilities. Our goal is to promote student independence and help students realize their full potential. All academic accommodations for students withlearning, attentional, psychiatric or other cognitive disabilities arebased on the recommendations included in the documentation of disability provided by the student. Academic accommodationsare intended to ensure access to educational opportunities for students with disabilities. Faculty in the Guidance Department provide individual support, instruction in learning strategies and compensatory techniques, help with time management andorganizational skills, and determination and arrangement ofaccommodations. Accommodations may include alternative testing arrangements such as readers, scribes, and extended-time exams, and access to taped textbooks and other adaptive technology.

Resource TeacherOccasionally, students may be invited to work with the MiddleSchool’s resource instructor and/or math resource teacher toaddress identified academic needs. These meetings usually takeplace during the Life Skills or Performing/Visual Arts block for thatstudent’s grade level. Students meet with the instructor every otherday, and are excused from the standard rotation that is offered onthat day. The resource teacher also offers help after school on aninvitation-only basis.

TutoringExtra help with academic work is available from the Middle Schoolclassroom teachers before, during, and after school. When such helpis not sufficient in causing improvement, tutoring may be recom-mended (for an additional cost) as a source of support to students.The Tutoring Coordinator schedules tutoring in consultation withthe Middle School Deans.


Social/Emotional ResourcesCounselorThe Middle School counselor provides support for students, familiesand faculty, which includes individual counseling, small skill-basedgroups, classroom presentations, assessment, parent education andreferrals to community agencies. A variety of lessons/programshave been developed to address a broad range of topics to supportchildren’s social/emotional health and academic success.

DeansThe Deans of grades 5/6 and 7/8 work to meet the academic, social,emotional and behavioral needs of students in Middle School. Theylisten to concerns and issues, provide coaching and feedback to stu-dents, facilitate small groups, and assist students in feeling positive,healthy, and responsible.


Health Center InformationThe Health Center is located in the corridor between the MiddleSchool Commons and Gym C. It is open from 8:15 AM to 3:30 PMdaily, and for emergencies from 3:30 to 4:00 PM. Students and staffare treated for illness, injury, or accidents that occur during theschool day. Students who need to take medications must do so inthe Health Center.

Parents/students frequently ask when students may return toschool after an illness. In general, their body temperature must beless than 100 degrees for 24 hours, and there should be no vomitingor diarrhea in the past 24 hours. Students should be able to tolerateeating as they normally would, and have the stamina to getthrough the demands of the school day. If having your child atschool would significantly put others at risk of contracting yourchild’s illness, please keep them home. The Health Center should benotified (763-381-8241) of any communicable diseases, injuries, orsurgeries that involve your child. Please contact the Health Center ifyou have questions.

IllnessesIf a student is going to be absent from school because of illness,parents should call the Middle School Attendance Line (763-381-8304) between 7:30 and 9:00 AM to report that the student isabsent and the reason for the absence.

Students who become ill during the school day need a written passfrom their teacher to see the nurse. For passes given during passingtimes (the five minutes between classes), the student should askthe teacher of their next class for a pass, not the teacher of the pre-vious class. In order to return to class, the student must present asigned pass from the nurse. If the student does not feel wellenough to return to class, the nurse will assess the student andpossibly call the parents to take the student home. A student mayleave campus only after reporting to the Health Center and signingout in the Middle School office. In case of an emergency, the nursewill be called and she will then make the judgment whether to call911 or the ambulance. In case of illness or accident after school, orwhen the nurse is not in attendance, students are referred to theMiddle School office.


Students who visit a medical professional for any injury, illness ofseveral days, or at the request of Breck School, are required to sub-mit to the Health Center a statement of medical clearance to partic-ipate in school or sports. The physician must specify recommenda-tions and/or limitations. The doctor may use his/her own form, orone can be obtained in the Health Center or trainer’s office. Theforms can also be faxed to the Health Center at 763-381-8199.

Medication PolicyIf a student requires prescription medication during school hours,please send it to school in the original container and bring it direct-ly to the Health Center. Students are not permitted to keep medica-tions, prescriptions or over-the-counter (OTC) drugs in their posses-sion or lockers. Students who take medications must do so in theHealth Center. Exceptions are students who may carry an asthmainhaler or EpiPen, if they have a written doctor’s order and writtenparent permission to do so, and have demonstrated to the schoolnurse competency in administration. Other special requests may bediscussed with the Licensed School Nurse.

If a prescribed medication needs to be taken during school hours,the parent must send written physician and parent authorization.Ask the pharmacist to supply a duplicate labeled container so onecan be kept at home and school. The medication should be labeledby the pharmacy and include the following information:

1. child’s name; 2. name of medication; 3. dosage; 4. date and time of day it is to be given; 5. duration of time it is to be given; 6. physician’s name/telephone number; 7. pharmacy telephone number.

Students should know the time s/he should go to the Health Centerfor medication. Non-prescription (OTC) medication such as Tylenolmust be supplied by the parent and parental written authorization is required.


The Health Center personnel reserve the right to refuse to give medication that exceeds the recommended dosage per thePhysician’s Desk Reference (PDR), or that cannot be located in the PDR.

Physical Examination and Immunization PolicyA Breck physical examination form or a Minnesota State HighSchool League (MSHSL) form is required for all students and mustbe updated every three years in accordance with the rules of theMSHSL for athletics. Students must have current immunizationrecords that comply with Minnesota State Law. Physical examina-tion and 2016-17 immunization forms are due in the Health Centerby August 1, 2016. The administration reserves the right to refuseattendance to students who do not comply. Students for whom we do not have these forms may not participate in interscholasticathletics.


FacilitiesBookstore and Gym StoreAt the Bookstore, which is open from 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM, studentsmay purchase various supplies such as pencils, notebooks, paper,etc., which will be charged to the student’s account as will text-books, whether purchased in the Bookstore or received in the classroom. Before school and activity periods are the best times to visit the Bookstore.

The Gym Store is located in the Fieldhouse. It is open from 10:30 AMto 4:00 PM. As with the Bookstore, purchases are charged to the student’s account and are not on a cash basis. When signing a purchase slip, please use the full name of the student.

Dining RoomLunchtime at Breck is a time for students and faculty to relax and interact with each other. This type of informal interaction is encouraged to promote a sense of community. We would alsolike to stress the importance of eating lunch, especially duringthese growing years. Breck School offers many choices for a nutritious lunch, including a main entree for both vegetarians andnon-vegetarians. In addition, we offer two soups, a full salad bar,low-calorie dressings, low-fat yogurt, cottage cheese, water-packedfruit, white and wheat breads, peanut butter, jelly, fresh fruit andwhole, two percent, and skim milk. A deli sandwich bar is alsoavailable every day. We encourage families to discuss makinghealthy choices with their children. Please contact Bob Miles (763-381-8281), Director of Food Services, and/or Karen Kaverman in theHealth Center (763-381-8241) for special dietary needs. Informationon individual students’ allergies and/or intolerances must be filedin the Health Center. In order to make the lunch time enjoyable, weask that students behave in an appropriate manner, show respectfor the other students and adults eating and working in the diningroom, and observe the following guidelines:

• To make the dining room a pleasant place to eat for everyone,students are asked to clean up after themselves and/or othersat their table when they have finished eating and before theirtable is dismissed. This includes wiping the tables clean,returning dirty dishes to the dish room, cleaning spills andtrash that may be on the chairs and floor surrounding the


table, and pushing in chairs. Please leave the dining roomclean for those who eat later.

• For health and safety reasons, students should not run in thedining room or toss things between tables. They must wearshoes and shirts at all times in the dining areas, and shouldkeep noise at a reasonable level.

• Food and dishes are not to be taken out of the dining room at any time.

Students will not be allowed into the dining room to get food atany time other than the designated lunch period.

Food/Snacks After SchoolNo food or beverages may be consumed in the hallways or MiddleSchool Commons at any time, including after school. Students maybring snacks to be consumed after school, which can be stored intheir lockers during the school day. After-school snacks may only be eaten outdoors or in the foyer outside the Middle School office.

LockersAdvisor CubbiesAdvisory rooms have cubbies for students to store items that donot fit in their lockers. Students are asked not to use their cubbiesfor sports equipment or materials that they may need access toduring class time.

Gym LockersStudents are expected to keep their gym clothing clean and neat,and to take care to store gym clothing and equipment safely intheir gym lockers. They are required to use the lock that will beissued to them at the beginning of the year, as many people sharethis locker room area.

Hallway LockersEach student is assigned a hallway book locker and combinationlock by Advisory for his/her own use. A copy of the lock combina-tion will be on file in the Middle School Office. We ask that studentsnot share lockers. Lockers should be kept clean and well organized.If you must bring valuables to school, it is strongly advised thatthey are left in the Middle School Office for the day. Students areencouraged not to bring valuable electronics, fad items, or cash to school.


Lockers are school property and may be opened and checked by theschool staff. Any attachments in lockers (mirrors, note pads, etc.)should be magnetic and not adhesive. There is to be NO WRITINGon either the inside or outside of lockers. If a student needs to leavesomeone a message, please tape a written message to the outsideof the locker using blue tape provided by Middle School office.

Students are responsible for the condition of their lockers through-out the school year. Efforts required to repair damage or removewriting or marks may result in an expense that will be added to thestudent’s account.

LibraryThe Middle School Library is reserved for instruction, reading,research, project work, reflection and quiet study. Books from thelibrary must be checked out and returned on time. Fines will be issued for overdue books. The Library is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please see the Library staff for any assistance you need.You are also welcome to use the Lower and Upper School Libraries.

Lost and FoundPlease label all children’s clothing. There are two Middle School Lost and Found areas:

• The clothing racks facing Room 4 in the North Middle SchoolCommons.

• The Transportation Office, for items left on buses or vans.

Students should be encouraged to be responsible for their belong-ings and to look in the Lost and Found for missing items. Lost andfound items are displayed in the North Middle School Commons. At the end of each quarter, all unclaimed items will be donated to a local charity.


TransportationBus RegulationsWe view the school bus as an extension of the school experience.Therefore, all students are expected to behave responsibly on theschool bus, following the guidelines below:

Bus Conduct Guidelines• Be on time.• Treat everyone with dignity and respect.• Cooperate with the bus driver. Follow instructions promptly

and courteously.• Use appropriate language on the bus.• Avoid behaviors that threaten, endanger or harass others. • Eating and/or drinking is not allowed on the bus. • Remain seated while the bus is in motion. • Windows may only be open half way. • Keep the aisles clear of any belongings. • Seats are assigned at the discretion of the driver. • Laptops are not allowed to be used on the bus.

The bus conduct guidelines are enforced in order to maintain safe riding conditions for all. Bus drivers may assign seats on the schoolbus. Students are not allowed to bring pets or animals on the bus.

Parents are asked to review bus conduct guidelines with studentsprior to the start of school, as well as intermittently throughout the year. Concerns regarding student behavior on the bus will beshared with parents as they arise. Commendations are sent hometo students to recognize exemplary behavior and responsibility onthe bus.

Students wanting to go home with a friend after school by busmay do so by providing permission from their parent/guardian.Students are not permitted to board a bus without permission from their parent/guardian.

School bus service is available to students in the Twin Cities andmost suburban areas. In addition to regular morning and the 3:25 PM afternoon buses, a 5:30 PM activity bus is provided throughmost of the school year for the convenience of students who areinvolved in athletics and other after-school activities.


Any questions about bus services should be addressed to Mark Ryksin the transportation office (763-381-8218) located just inside theLower/Middle School Entrance (to the left).

Procedures for Disruptive Behavior on the Bus1. First report: Student discussion and coaching with grade-level

Dean or Middle School Director.2. Second report: Student discussion with grade-level Dean

or Middle School Director. Phone call to parents. Letter andcopy of bus reports sent home.

3. Third report: Parents contacted. Loss of bus-riding privileges may occur.

4. Fourth report: Parent conference and suspension from the bus will occur.

* Recurring behaviors may result in removal from the bus forthe remainder of the year.


Snow DaysIf school has to be cancelled due to bad weather, it will beannounced as early as possible. Check local media: KARE, KMSP,KSTP and WCCO and their related radio stations and websites. Ifyou do not see or hear Breck listed among closed schools, assumethat school will be in session. Breck also uses an automated phoneand texting system where important messages may be recorded(and texted) and relayed to families using the phone number(s)provided to Breck's emergency contact phone list. This system willbe used to announce snow days and other emergencies, as well.

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