PARENT HANDBOOK

2010-2011

SMITH MIDDLE

SCHOOL http://smith.troy.k12.mi.us/

5835 Donaldson

Troy, Michigan 48085

248-823-4700

248-823-4701 (absence line)

Dear Parents,

Welcome to Smith Middle School. The staff at Smith believes that your child is a

special person who deserves the best possible education. Everyone who comes in

contact with your child is a part of the learning process. The staff at Smith

provides your young person with a diversity of learning experiences. Learning is

fun and enjoyed by both the student and teacher.

It is important that you understand what your child experiences at Smith. We

extend to you an invitation to be involved in our school and your child's education.

The information included in this parent handbook was developed to familiarize you

with the procedures and programs of both the Troy School District and Smith

Middle School.

Please note: A tentative calendar is in the back of this handbook. Please check

your monthly newsletter for future calendar events. The calendar is tentative

and all dates and times are subject to change.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to visit our school, go to our

website http://smith.troy.k12.mi.us/ or call the school office at 823-4700.

I am looking forward to working with you and your child.

Sincerely,

Joseph Hosang

Principal

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Troy School District

Mission Statement

GENERAL INFORMATION

Principal ...................................................................................... Joseph Hosang

Assistant Principal ......................................................................Amy Buchanan

Counselors................................................................. Jennifer Hartenburg (A-F)

Christine Summerell (G-Z)

Secretaries .................................................................................... Jennifer Vente

Lynn Hipp

Police Liaison Officer ........................................................... Meghan Broderick

Superintendent ..................................................................... Dr. Barbara Fowler

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

Smith Office ....................................823-4700

Information & Attendance Line ......823-4701

(Voicemail - 24 hours)

Counselors.......................................823-4700

Board Office....................................823-4000

Transportation .................................823-4054

Smith Fax Line ................................823-4713

E-mail…………………………… ..RSMITH2@troy.k12.mi.us

WHILE AT SMITH IF YOU HAVE A PROBLEM, QUESTION OR CONCERN, CONTACT

(IN ORDER):

Attendance & Homework Requests:

Secretary to the Assistant Principal

Ms. Amy Buchanan, Assistant Principal

Grades or Instruction:

The Classroom Teacher

Your Child's Counselor

Mr. Joseph Hosang, Principal

Behavior or Discipline:

The Classroom Teacher

Ms. Amy Buchanan, Assistant Principal

Mr. Joseph Hosang, Principal

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Academic, Developmental or Social:

The Classroom Teacher

Your Child's Counselor

Athletics or Intramurals:

The Coach

Mr. Joseph Hosang, Principal

Transportation:

Mr. Joseph Hosang, Principal

Mr. Dominick Asaro, Transportation Supervisor, 823-4054

TIME SCHEDULE

1st Hour ..................8:05 - 9:00 a.m.

2nd

Hour .................9:05 - 10:05 a.m.

3rd

Hour ..................10:10 - 11:05 a.m.

4th

Hour ..................11:10 – 12:40 p.m.

11:05 - 11:35 a.m.(A lunch) (in class 11:40)

11:40 - 12:07 a.m.(B lunch) (in class 12:10)

12:10 - 12:40 p.m.(C lunch) (in class 12:45)

5th

Hour ..................12:45 - 1:40 p.m.

6th

Hour ..................1:45 - 2:41 p.m.

HALF DAY SCHEDULE

1st Hour ..................8:05 - 9:04 a.m.

2nd

Hour .................9:09 – 10:14 a.m.

3rd

Hour ..................10:19 – 11:18 a.m. (11:17 am 1st half day)

STUDENTS MAY NOT ENTER THE BUILDING PRIOR TO 7:15 A.M. Students entering

the building prior to 7:55 a.m. must report to the cafeteria. It is permissible for students to

remain outside until the 7:55 bell, but once a student has entered the school, they may not leave

for any reason. Breakfast food (cereal, juices, bagels, donuts, etc.) may be purchased beginning

at 7:30 a.m.

Periodically, there are half days of school during the year. All half days, excluding the first, are

scheduled for the morning and students will be dismissed at 1:18 a.m. Regular bus routes will be

followed during half days.

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STAFF

Teachers

Sue Baran

Geoff Benes

Jennifer Braun

Mary Bruss

Kristine Casko

Kim Cline

Adrienne Covian

Anne Drogosch

Gareth Eve

Bonnie Gibson

Tim Heath

Natalie Jagels

Nancy Klein

Patrick Koneval

Duane Losey

Alan MacNair

Mary MacNair

Cherie Maher

Terri McCormick

Lauryn Mordarski

Mike Morris

April Muller

Vivek Nayak

Christine Opie

Ewa Ostrowski

Susan Pickering

Tara Putrus

Brad Pyke

Melissa Rehbine

Glenn Rexer

Nate Reynolds

Cheryl Rosenblatt

Kristie Romaya

Georgia Sebastian

Song Song

Carolyn Taggart

Colleen Thompson Candice Tamakloe

Ray Torres

Jennifer Trice

Alicia Wahls

JoAnn Williams

Cafeteria Noon Aides Custodians ESL Aides Sue Bissonette Ketki Amin David Jones Krishna Patel

Zarka Jakupovic Prudence Lantzy

Denise Mackeverican Nancy Ulewicz

Karen Osborn

Christine Searight

Wendy Wong

Title I Tutors Computer Aide Campus Aide Special Ed ParaPro Jan Giordano John Eagan Mary Ann Husson Terri Grafton Karen Mroczka

Special Services

Speech Pathologist ......................................Andrea Alter, Melanie Harper

Psychologist ................................................Karey Hansen

Social Worker .............................................Heather Kavanaugh

Teacher Consultant .....................................Colleen Tropea

SMITH PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION

As a parent at Smith, you are automatically a member of the Smith Parent Teacher Organization

(SPTO). There are no membership dues or fees, and meetings are held monthly. The SPTO has

officers who are elected annually. The goal of the SPTO is to support school activities through

participation. Volunteers are coordinated by the SPTO to help in the clinic, Stop and Shop,

media center, dances and at various functions throughout the year.

SPTO Officers

President…………………………… Marlo Moeller

Vice-President………………………Cindy Hansen

Secretary…………………………… Eileen Wlzosek

Treasurer…………………………… Sue Balamucki

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STOP AND SHOP

The Smith Parent Teacher Organization maintains a student bookstore, the Stop and Shop,

throughout the year. The Stop and Shop is open daily during the lunch hours and has various

supplies for student purchase. These items are sold at list and there is no profit to the school or

SPTO.

OPEN HOUSE

An open house is held annually in September. Grading policies, curriculum, homework and

classroom procedures are presented by teachers during this open house. This is an outstanding

opportunity for you to learn about your child's day at school. Please note, open house is not a

time for individual conferences with teachers. Open house at the middle school level is for

parents only. Although we realize that sometimes circumstances dictate that students accompany

the parents, it is hoped that parents attend without their children.

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

Parent-teacher conferences are typically held twice each year. Students are dismissed early on

the days of conferences. Information about conferences is mailed home prior to the conference

dates. Teachers will be in the gymnasium and conferences are on a first-come basis. We request

that parents spend no more than ten minutes with each teacher. Traditionally, about 85% of the

parents/guardians attend parent-teacher conferences at Smith Middle School. Individual

conferences can be scheduled anytime. Teacher conference periods are published in this

handbook. These are the best times to contact your child's teacher.

SCHOOL INFORMATION

There are a variety of ways that Smith employs to insure that information reaches families. The

U-KNIGHTed News, our school newsletter, is available on EdLine. It includes articles about

activities and people at Smith as well as our monthly calendar. Other information sources are

Cable TV Channel 58 (TCI) or 15 (WOW) or at our web page:

http.//smith.troy.k12.mi.us

TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT WEB MAIL-OUT SYSTEM

The Troy School district Web Mail-out system allows parents to register their e-mail addresses to

receive instant information on important news from Smith Middle School. Users can register up

to four work and home e-mail addresses for this system. To register – log on to:

http://www.troy.k12.mi.us/mailout.

REPORT CARDS

Report cards are issued four times during the school year. Students receive achievement grades,

remarks and citizenship codes that reflect behavior and effort.

Achievement (ACH) Behavior Effort

A - Excellent 1 - Excellent 1 - Excellent

B - Above Average 2 - Good 2 - Good

C - Average 3 - Satisfactory 3 - Satisfactory

D - Below Average 4 - Poor-Needs 4 - Poor-Needs

E - Failure Improvement Improvement

G - Credit-No Grade 5 - Unacceptable 5 - Unacceptable

H - No Credit/No Grade

S - Satisfactory Progress

U - Unsatisfactory Progress

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PROGRESS REPORTS

Progress reports are issued four times each school year, at the midpoint of each marking period.

These reports are designed to give parents and students some indication of student progress in

the classroom. Progress reports give parents and students time to talk with teachers and develop

plans to correct any problems that may exist prior to report card markings. Students may or may

not receive grades or comments from every teacher. Many teachers create their own progress

reports and these may be substituted for the Troy School District computer generated reports.

EDLINE

EDLINE is a system that allows our parents and students the ability to view classroom grades,

assignments, notes, calendars, and much more online. For those participating in this program the

communication between the home and classroom has been greatly enhanced and is contributing

to academic success for the student! Teacher participation in EDLINE is voluntary.

Participating teachers not only can post password-protected grades, but also lessons, homework,

assignments, etc. EDLINE home page is www.edline.net

HONOR ROLL

To be eligible for the honor roll, a student must have a "B" or better academic average for that

card marking with no failing grades. Honor roll lists are made available to students and parents

at the end of each marking period. All "A" students are given special designation on the honor

rolls.

ATTENDANCE

Good attendance is essential to school success. There are, however, occasions when your child

may be absent from school. If your child is going to be absent, we request that you call to report

the absence by 9:00 a.m. We operate a 24-hour absence line each school day and during the

weekend. The number is 823-4701. Parents may also report an absence or excuse a student in

writing. Notes should be brought to the office prior to 7:55 a.m. Students whose parents have

not had contact with the office regarding the absence will receive an unexcused absence. The

absence will remain unexcused until verified by a parent. The ability to make up work may be

impacted by the status of the absence. Should you know in advance that a child will be absent

for any length of time, please notify the office prior to the absence. Students will carry a

prearranged absence slip to their classes. This allows teachers to make arrangements with

students for work that will be missed prior to the absence. We appreciate your cooperation with

our attendance policy.

MAKE-UP WORK

A student with an excused absence has the privilege of completing the work missed and

receiving credit for it. Class discussions and activities cannot be duplicated, but teachers will do

all they can to help students with the work they missed while absent. Make up work after an

excused absence is to be done promptly. Students will receive two days for each day absent to

make up work. Assignments made prior to a student absence will be due upon a student's

return. This includes the taking of tests and quizzes. It is the responsibility of the student to

obtain all necessary make-up work. At the end of the marking period, an extension of make-up

time may be granted by the principal if sufficient reason is shown. Students must be absent

two consecutive days to have homework requests honored.

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STUDENTS ARRIVING LATE OR LEAVING EARLY

No student should leave the building without a parent's consent and the school's knowledge. A

note or call to the office is acceptable. All students must be signed out in the office by a parent

or designee noted on the emergency card before they leave. Students arriving late should report

directly to the office and sign in. Parents are encouraged to accompany their students into the

school to sign them in.

Excused absences and tardiness are:

1. Student Illness

2. Doctor/Dental Appointments

3. Death in the Family

4. Prearranged Family Trips

Any other absence or tardy is unexcused.

VISITING SMITH MIDDLE SCHOOL

The staff and administration welcome and encourage you to visit our building. Anytime you

visit Smith, you must check into the office upon your arrival and receive a visitor's badge.

Parents and family members should never go directly to the classroom to get a student, deliver

materials or see a teacher at any time.

SCHOOL CLOSINGS

If the decision is made to close the schools, that information will be communicated on our

district website, www.clickondetroit.com/closings, and television/radio stations prior to 7:00

a.m. Please DO NOT CALL the Central Office, radio stations, Smith Middle School or school

officials' homes.

The Troy School District "Newsline" (823-4000) will have a recorded message relative to school

openings and closing from 8:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. and during the weekends. If for any reason it

is necessary to close school during the day while students are in attendance, the same procedure

will be followed. Emergency information is also available on the TSD website and Troy TV.

Channel 58 (TCI) or 15 (WOW.)

STUDENT PHONE CALLS

If a student must make a phone call during the school day they may use the pay phone located in

the hallway by the band room or come to the office to use their cell phones. Students may not

use their cell phones without the permission of an administrator during the school day. The

office phone is to be used for emergencies only. Students will be called to the office to receive

phone calls only in the event of an emergency.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION

The emergency information card helps school personnel greatly in making decisions regarding

your child in case of an emergency. Attempts will be made first to locate the parents before

other emergency contacts will be called. It is vital that families complete these cards accurately

and inform the school of any changes that may occur during the school year. No student will be

released to any person not listed on the emergency card without written permission. If the card is

not signed, medical treatment cannot be administered. Please be sure to list any person on your

emergency card that we may call in an emergency or may pick up your child from school.

Copies of the emergency card are also placed with the Smith Crisis Response Kit for use in a

building crisis.

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STUDENT ID CARDS

All Smith students will be issued a student ID card. This ID card should be carried with the

student at all times. The ID card also serves as the student's library card and Point of Sale access

card in the cafeteria. Replacement cards will be issued at the cost of $3.00

BUS TRANSPORTATION

Many Smith students ride a bus to and from school. Student safety is a top priority of our

Transportation Department. Good conduct is expected of all students. The Student Code of

Conduct is in effect while the student is riding the bus or at the bus stop. On occasion, a student

may need to ride home with a friend. In that case, a note from home informing us of the change

is required. This note must be signed by the principal or assistant principal and then presented to

the bus driver. The host student is responsible for the conduct of his/her guest. Requests to ride

with another student will only be honored when there is available seating on the bus. No requests

will be honored on the last three half days in June.

BIKE RIDERS

A rack is located at the southeast end of the building for all students riding their bikes to school.

It is expected that bike riders ride on the sidewalk, where possible, cross at traffic lights, show

proper courtesy for cars, busses and pedestrians, and ride safely at all times. When arriving or

leaving school, it is expected that bike riders will use the sidewalks to and from the bike rack and

not cut through the parking lot. Students not riding safely or courteously may lose their privilege

to ride bikes to school. All bikes should be locked with some type of chain or lock! These same

safety rules apply to roller blades and skateboards.

SUPPORT SERVICES

Counseling

The Smith Middle School Guidance Program is developed with the purpose of meeting the

social, personal and academic needs of each individual student in this crucial period of transition

and development.

The counselors view the middle school years as primarily the time for a youngster to explore

further and learn more about "self." Thus, the middle school counselors concentrate their

energies and skills in helping students gain knowledge of their needs, values, abilities, strengths

and weaknesses. Following are some ways in which the counselors help Smith students:

Personal Counseling

Group Counseling, i.e. Bereavement, Divorce, Concerned Persons, Social Skills

Scheduling, academic monitoring, standardized testing, career education and planning

Students are assigned to counselors alphabetically. Students may see either counselor should

they have a concern. Counselor involvement with students can be initiated by the student,

parent, teacher or counselors. Students may sign up in the main office to see a counselor.

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Social Worker

Smith Middle School has a social worker assigned to the building three days per week. Requests

for social work services can be made through the counselors or administrators.

Speech Pathologist

Our speech pathologist works with students at Smith one day a week. Students identified as

needing speech or language support will receive service each week.

Psychologist

A school psychologist is assigned to Smith and is in our school two days per week. The

psychologist's services are initiated by referral. Requests for service are handled through the

counselors, administrators or the Special Education Office.

Teacher Consultant

The integrative consultant works with assigned special education students individually and/or in

small groups to provide support and assistance in the least restrictive environment. The

integrative consultant monitors student programs and progress and provides assistance to both

the special and general education teachers.

Title I

Title I services are provided by tutors to eligible students. Title I services support students in the

areas of math, science and language arts through tutoring, study/organizational skill development

and classroom intervention. Eligibility for Title I services is based on test scores and academic

performance.

ESL/Bilingual

Support to students whose native language is one other than English is provided in two levels.

Students may be scheduled with an ESL (English as a Second Language) class or receive support

from a bilingual tutor. The level of service is determined by a student's proficiency in English

and scores on nationally normed tests.

STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES

Clinic

Smith has a health clinic located in the office area. This area is designed to assist students who

are ill or injured. Students receive help from trained parent volunteers. Their duties include:

taking temperatures, aiding students with cuts and bruises, and supplying lots of TLC. Clinic

volunteers may not administer aspirin or medication other than prescribed (see Medication),

change bandages, etc. The clinic is not a long-term care facility. After a reasonable amount of

time (usually 15 minutes), a decision will be made whether the parent will be contacted to pick

up the child or he/she will return to class.

Medication

There may be times when a student will need to take medication during school hours. State and

School District Policy require that any request for a student to have medication dispensed during

the school day MUST be accompanied by an Authorization for Medication form signed by the

parents and physician. Instructions and prescribed dosage must be included on the form.

Medication must be brought to school by the parent and all medication, with the exception of

inhalers, must be kept in the school office and be dispensed by school district personnel. Extra

medication must be retrieved at the end of the school year by parents. Any changes in dosage or

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instructions MUST be accompanied by a new Medication Authorization form. Forms are

available in the office.

Student Health Issues

An increasing number of students have health issues such as diabetes, allergies or asthma that

may require a specific action plan or protocol in case of an emergency. Parents of these students

will receive a letter and the appropriate form to complete so we act quickly and appropriately in

the case of an emergency. It is very important that all forms be completed accurately so we may

have this information on file in the school clinic.

A number of students are allergic to peanuts and nut products. We request that families be aware

of the potential emergencies if these students come in contact with peanuts or nut products.

When doing things like creating projects or sending in treats to a classroom, please avoid peanuts

or nut products.

911 CALLS

911 Calls made from a school phone is considered a Level III Violation as outlined on page 22 of

the Student Rights and Responsibilities handbook. It is important to know that 911 connects with

the Police Department as soon as the last 1 is dialed. The phone neither has to ring nor be

answered for the connection to be made and the police to respond to the 911 emergency call. All

students making a 911 call will be subjected to disciplinary action in accordance with Troy

School District policy.

INTERNET

Internet use in the Troy School District is considered a student right that allows the student the

opportunity to use this excellent resource to research global studies and worldwide news. With

this right comes the responsibility for the student to use these resources responsibly and

appropriately. Misuse of computers and technologies is outlined on pages 19 and 20 of the Troy

School District Rights and Responsibilities handbook. It is expected that all students wishing to

use the Internet at school will have a Student Internet Registration Contract signed by both

student and parent on file in the school office.

SMITH HARRASSMENT POLICY

Harassment is against the law and against school policy. Harassment because of sex, race, color,

national origin, religion, height, weight, handicap or disability of students by other students or

adults is unacceptable and is unlawful. Harassment includes (but is not limited to) unwelcome

comments or gestures (written or verbal) or other behavior which creates an intimidating, hostile

or offensive environment. Students are encouraged to report any incidents to the adult of their

choice or to seek help reporting the incident. A student can anonymously report an incident by

writing it down and placing the document in one of three Bully Boxes. The Bully Boxes are

located in the counseling office, in the hallway near room 9 and in the hallway near room 18.

HAZING: Senate Bill 783 makes the act of “hazing”, where it results in injury or death, subject

to serious criminal sanctions. Public Act 111 applies to attendees, employees and volunteers of

Michigan public and private schools. Hazing is defined as the “intentional, knowing, or reckless

act by a person acting alone or acting with others that is directed against an individual and that

the person knew or should have known endangers the physical health or safety of the individual,

and that is done for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, participating in,

holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization.” If the hazing results in

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physical injury, the crime is a misdemeanor. If the violation results in serious impairment of a

body function, the crime is a felony.

STUDENT VISITORS

On occasion, students will request to have a visitor attend school with them for a day. As a rule,

this practice is discouraged. This is especially true for friends or relatives that attend school in

neighboring communities or non-public schools and would like to visit Smith when his/her

school is not in session. There are times when guests from out of town are permitted to visit

Smith. All requests must be cleared by the principal or assistant principal. A form may be

picked up from the main office to be signed by ALL the student's teachers, and returned to the

office for final approval. This must be done a minimum of 24 hours in advance.

NO VISITOR REQUESTS WILL BE APPROVED

AFTER MEMORIAL DAY

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER

Students are encouraged to use the library/media center to support the academic curriculum as

well as for personal reading enjoyment. The media center collaborates with classroom lessons,

activities and research projects, sponsors programs, and loans a variety of materials. Students

share our pride in helping to keep it an up-to-date, vital and attractive place of learning.

The media center is open before, during and immediately after school for students to check out

materials. During the day whole classes as well as individuals with passes are admitted to the

center. Students may use the facility during lunch period with a pass from the teacher librarian.

Student ID cards are required to check out materials. Fiction, biography, audio books, and non-

fiction books check out for a period of 3 weeks. Magazines and graphic novels check out for a

period of 1 week. Reference books check out overnight only. Fines are issued at 10 cents per

day for overdue materials.

The media center enjoys its role of providing media materials, services and experiences that are

appropriate and meaningful to the educational growth and development of students and staff.

Code READ

Smith students are expected to carry a leisure reading book to all classes. School-wide and

individual classroom reading drills are practiced regularly. Research indicates students who read

for pleasure perform better in school and have higher standardized test scores. Code READ

books include fiction, biography and narrative non-fiction materials and can be brought from

home, school or public library.

POINT OF SALE LUNCH PROGRAM

This system allows parents and student to pay for meals on account, thereby eliminating the need

for students to carry cash to school each day. Funds may be added to accounts at the lunch line

by cash or check or individuals may directly pay Troy School District Food Service office by

check or credit card. Children may still purchase lunches with cash. Students access the system

using their student ID card. When an ID card is scanned, cafeteria staff are able to view the

student's name, picture, account balance or any other information added such as food allergies or

meal restrictions.

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STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Athletics

Everyone at Smith is proud of our outstanding athletic teams. Sports programs are offered to

students in the seventh and eighth grades. The sports offered are football, basketball and track

for boys and basketball, volleyball and track for girls, and the spirit squad. Students wishing to

participate must have a physical and a signed Troy School District permission form before that

student may try out for that activity. A current physical is one received after April 15 of the

previous school year. Physical forms are available from the coach or in the main office.

Athletic Eligibility

Students must maintain good grades and citizenship to remain eligible to participate:

•Ten Week Eligibility

If a student receives two (2) failing grades (E), he/she will be ineligible for the next card

marking period (10 weeks). If a student improves his/her grades to passing five classes

during the time he/she is ineligible for participation, he/she will be reinstated at the

beginning of the next card marking period. Fourth card marking period grades count

towards eligibility for fall sports except as students move from the 6th

to 7th

grade.

•Weekly/Ongoing

To maintain in-season eligibility students must pass 5 classes and receive fewer than 9

points in behavior (4’s & 5’s only, excludes 1’s, 2’s, or 3’s) on weekly eligibility checks.

•Should a student fail to pass 2 classes or receive 9 points in behavior:

First Occurrence – The student will be placed on probation. Ineligible students will

be required to develop a contract with the coach to address the concerns. Athletes

must continue to practice with the team while ineligible.

Second Occurrence – The student will be ineligible to participate in any games until

the next eligibility check. Ineligible students will be required to continue the contract

with the coach to address the concerns. Athletes must continue to practice with the

team while ineligible.

Third Occurrence – The student will be ineligible to participate in any games and

must meet with the coach and either the athletic director or principal before regaining

eligibility.

Next Occurrence – Dismissal from the team.

Grades and behavior are weekly and are not cumulative.

Intramural Sports

Intramural sports will be organized for sixth grade students, primarily, and students in the

seventh and eighth grades who are not participating in the current inter-scholastic sport activities.

These activities may include: flag football, basketball, volleyball, wrestling, swimming, tennis,

track and cross-country. A list of intramural sports activities will be made available at the

beginning of the school year. Athletic physicals are not required for IM participation.

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Clubs

Club activities will be announced to the students during the fall. These activities are for all

students. A list of club activities will be made available at the beginning of the school year as

well as posted on the Smith website. A club can be started any time there is sufficient student

interest and an adult sponsor.

Student Council

The Student Council is the official voice of the student body. The Council attempts the

following:

To organize and implement student activities.

To promote school spirit and high morale.

To maintain cooperation between the students, faculty and administration.

To introduce the practice of group structure and meeting organization.

To encourage leadership and responsibility for all students at Smith.

Student Council is open to all students who meet the eligibility requirements, which are a

minimum grade point of 2.0, behavior/citizenship marks not lower than a 2.0 and teacher

evaluations. Any student may run for an office or the cabinet. Elections are in the spring for

officers. Student Council is an honored position that requires a great deal of effort, leadership

and responsibility.

Dances

After-school parties (dances) are held on a regular basis. There is usually an admission fee to

attend. Dances last from 2:45-4:00 p.m. Students will not be allowed to leave a dance early

unless his/her parent comes into school to get them or sends in a note with their child

requesting the student be allowed to leave early. This includes any adult picking up their

child's friends or neighborhood children without written permission. Dances are limited to Smith

students only. Activity busses are available to take students home after dances. The bus will

travel to a central point in each subdivision in the Smith attendance area.

Attending events after school as an observer

School spirit is important to having a good school. Smith Middle School staff and students take

pride in everything our school accomplishes. During sporting events and shows, all spectators

are expected to show courtesy to other spectators, and all involved in the event. Our goal is to

create a positive atmosphere where everyone departs the event with a positive impression of

Smith Middle School. There is no charge to attend athletic events at Smith. No drinks of any

kind are allowed in the gym during athletic events. Once at an event, students may not leave the

school and return.

ASSIGNMENT LOGS

Smith Middle School provides a homework assignment log for each student. This booklet

allows students to record homework and class assignments on a daily basis. The booklet has

enough daily sheets to last an entire school year. Parents are encouraged to review the booklet

on a daily basis in order to be aware of school assignments. STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO

USE THE BOOKLET EACH DAY IN CLASS.

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Your cooperation in checking the logs will further reinforce its consistent use. Each student will

receive one copy per year. Replacement planners may be purchased at the Stop & Shop.

LOCKERS

Students are assigned individual hall lockers. Students should not tell their combination to other

students or share lockers. Locker inspections are made periodically. If a student has trouble

with the operation of the lock or locker, the student should contact the office. All personal items,

such as pictures, must be hung with magnets. Students often choose to decorate other student’s

lockers for a special occasion. All decorations must be hung with magnets. Stickers or tape are

not allowed.

Any damaged locks or lockers must be reported immediately to the office. If not reported, it will

be assumed that the occupants are responsible for the damage and they will be fined.

LOST & FOUND

Lost and found articles are to be brought to the main office. To prevent loss of possessions,

students are encouraged to mark their names clearly on every item. Students should write their

name in the space provided in each textbook when it is assigned to them. The school is not

responsible for valuables brought to school. All lost clothing articles not claimed in June will be

donated to charity.

OPEN ENROLLMENT POLICY Troy Public Schools have an "open enrollment" policy which allows, under certain conditions,

attendance by a child at any school in the district. Due to enrollment size, some buildings may

be closed to open enrollment. Decisions regarding open enrollment status for a building are

made yearly.

Parents interested in transferring their child to another Troy School District building are required

to complete a transfer application form. Application forms are available in all school buildings

and at the Board of Education office. All requests will be handled on a first-come, first-serve

basis and will be reviewed, depending on the grade level of the student, by either the Executive

Director of Elementary or Secondary Education.

Once granted, transfers will remain in effect for at least one school year. Once the transfer is

approved, parents may be responsible for transportation for their child to and from the new

school site, depending on the building and location of their residence. Students granted open

enrollment at one level (i.e., elementary) must reapply for that status at the next level (middle

school).

WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURE

When a student is moving from Smith during the school year, parents should initiate the

withdrawal procedure as soon as possible by contacting the office in person or by letter. A

withdrawal form must be completed, books turned in and fines paid before the student leaves.

Copies of student records may be issued to the parents, but the actual file will be sent to the new

school upon receipt of a Request for Records form.

FIELD TRIPS

During the course of the school year, there will be times in which certain skills are best taught

outside the classroom setting. These trips must have a viable educational objective prior to their

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approval. Specific precautions are taken to insure that the students are adequately supervised.

Often parents and volunteers assist in this supervision.

Before a student may participate in these educational experiences outside the classroom, written

parent permission is required. Should a student not have written parent permission to go on a

trip, he/she will remain in a supervised setting at school.

On occasion, special fees may be requested of parents for tickets, transportation, food, etc.

Every effort is made to keep such fees at a minimum, and no student will be excluded from a trip

due to inability to pay.

Occasionally, groups of faculty offer special trips such as the 7th

grade trip to Chicago, the 8th

grade trip to Washington. These trips are voluntary and are usually contracted with a tour group

or agency. Often the rules and procedures of the tour group take precedent during the planning

and conduct of the trip. All costs of these trips will be the responsibility of the family except

under unusual circumstances.

COMMUNITY USE OF SCHOOL BUILDINGS

Our school community is welcome to use available space for the purpose of meetings,

recreational activities, community group activities and other related events. There may be a fee

assessed for community use depending on the event. A building permit must be completed to

request the use of the building. Permits are available on the Troy School District website.

SALES BY NON-SCHOOL GROUPS

With the wide variety of non-school groups in Troy, fund raising and the selling of candy and

other items in school can be a problem. Therefore, the sale of anything by non-Smith sponsored

groups will not be allowed. Any items being sold in school will be confiscated, and the parents

will be notified.

ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES

While we understand that communication with your child is important, please understand that the

indiscriminate use of cell phones during school can be extremely disruptive. The Troy School

District policy is that NO student shall use or display cellular phones or any other device used for

communication on school property during normal school hours unless authorized by a teacher or

office staff member. Parents, if you must contact your child during the school day, please call

the main office at 248.823.4700, and we will deliver the message to your student.

TESTING OUT OF A CLASS

Students have the ability to “test out” of a class. The deadline for submitting a letter to the

building principal of Smith requesting participation in this process is usually due one week prior

to the test. The test dates and times will be arranged for the last two weeks in May or the first

week in June. Students must score at or above 77% to be considered for testing out of a class.

There will be no testing scheduled after this time nor can students retake the tests. To insure

consideration for placement in the appropriate class in the fall students must take the test in

May/June. Copies of the test will not be available either prior to or after testing. Please contact

your child’s counselor if you have questions.

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COURSE OFFERINGS

There are two types of classes in the Troy middle schools, required and elective. Each grade

level has a group of courses that are required of all students. The balance of the time is offered

as exploratory experiences. We hope that each student will take advantage of as many

exploratory subjects as possible during the three years at Smith.

Student Scheduling

Each spring, students are required to complete course selection sheets for the following year.

These selections are then placed into the computer for hours and teacher selection. If a conflict

prevents scheduling, an alternate class previously selected by the student requests will be

substituted. Any special requests must be made in writing to a counselor or administrator prior

to June 1. Once the school year begins, counselors should be consulted regarding any requests

for a schedule change and schedule changes may or may not be honored. Course Curriculum

Guides will be available prior to the selection of courses for the next school year.

DIRECTORY INFORMATION

The Michigan Freedom of Information Act requires state and local agencies, including school

districts, to make certain information available to the public.

The public information, called directory information, includes: student's name, address,

telephone listing, picture, major field of study, date and place of birth, participation in officially

recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of

attendance, degrees and awards received, most recent previous school attended and other similar

information.

If parents (or students 18 years or older) object to publication of any of the above information,

they must notify the assistant superintendent. Written notification must be received by October

1, 2006.

COMMUNICATION RELEASE FORMS INFORMATION

Multimedia technology is woven throughout the Troy School District K-12 curriculum as an

instructional tool, providing students with the ability to communicate and to showcase their work

on a global scale. New technology in our buildings provides many opportunities for students to

share their work.

Parents have the right to exclude their child’s name, picture or his/her work shared via cable

television, the Internet or other media. Parents who DO NOT want the use of photographs,

videos of their child or art work or writing he/she has created, MUST fill out a Communication

Release Form and give this form to Mr. Joseph Hosang. This form is kept on file in the Smith

office.

EDUCATIONAL RECORDS

Most information contained in students' school records is not considered directory information

and, therefore, remains confidential. Parents (or the student if he or she is 18 years or older)

have the right to inspect or review education records. To do so, a written request must be made

to the building principal at the elementary level or to the guidance department at the secondary

level. Upon receipt of the request, an appointment will be set to review the records.

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STUDENT IMMUNIZATIONS

The state law requires that any student enrolling in a Michigan school for the first time must

show proof of immunization against the following diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, measles,

pertussis, poliomyelitis, rubella, mumps and chickenpox (or date of having had chickenpox) and

the Hepatitis B Series, or a statement signed by the parent or guardian to the effect that there is a

religious or other objection to the immunization. New enrollees, including kindergartners, will

not be allowed to attend without the required immunization or waiver.

G-1005 TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT NONDISCRIMINATIN POLICY

In compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education

Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act

of 1975, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, it is the policy of the Troy School

District that no person shall, on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry,

gender, age, disability, height, weight, or marital status be illegally excluded from participation

in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination during any program, activity, or

service or in employment.

In accordance with Federal regulations, Troy School District has appointed the Assistant

Superintendent, Human Resources, as the Title VI, Title IX, Section 504/ADA, and Age

Discrimination Act Coordinator. Any questions, suggestions, or complaints retarding a possible

or perceived violation of this policy of nondiscrimination should be directed to this

administrator, who is responsible for administering the nondiscrimination grievance procedure:

Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources

Title VI, Title IX, Section 504/ADA and Age

Discrimination Act Coordinator

Troy School District

4400 Livernois Road

Troy, MI 48098-4799

Voice 248.823.4000

ANTIDISCRIMINATION GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE Any student or employee of the District who believes that he or she has been discriminated

against, denied a benefit, or excluded from participation in any District educational program or

activity on the basis of sex (including sexual harassment), race, color, religion, national origin,

age (employees only), height, weight, marital status, or handicap shall file a written grievance

with Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources, who is the designated compliance

administrator. Grievance forms may be obtained in the Human Resources Department.

Individuals are encouraged to discuss their concern informally with the staff member involved

before a formal grievance form is filed. The compliance administrator can often help in

attempting to resolve the grievance and will, if the individual desires, accompany him or her at

all meetings with staff members.

Formal Grievance Procedure Step 1: If a grievance is not resolved informally, the individual shall submit a written grievance

form to the immediate supervisor or administrator within 10 work days of the incident. The

procedure will then be as follows:

1. Not later than next work day – administrator or supervisor must send copy of grievance

to Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources.

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2. Within 5 work days of grievance filing date – supervisor or administrator meets with

grievant.

3. Within 3 work days of meeting – supervisor or administrator gives written answer to

grievant on grievance form.

Step 2:

4. Within 3 work days of receipt of answer – grievant (if not satisfied) must appeal to the

Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources.

5. Within 10 work days of receipt of appeal – Assistance Superintendent, Human Resources

(or Deputy Superintendent, if appropriate) meets with grievant.

6. Within 5 work days of meeting – Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources or Deputy

Superintendent gives written answer.

Step 3:

7. Within 3 work days of receipt of answer – grievant (if not satisfied) must appeal to the

Superintendent.

8. Within 10 work days of receipt of appeal – Superintendent meets with grievant.

9. Within 5 work days of meeting – Superintendent gives written answer. This decision is

final and binding on all parties.

Additional Provisions The Superintendent, Deputy Superintendent, and Assistant Superintendent, Human

Resources may designate representatives to act for them in their functions as described above.

A grievance not filed or appealed within the specified time limits will be conclusively

deemed abandoned. Failure of any administrator or supervisor to hold a meeting or render a

decision allows automatic appeal to the next level. Time limits may be extended only by mutual

written agreement.

All records concerning a grievance will be treated confidentially. No record of a grievance

will be kept in a staff member’s personnel file if the final decision is that there was no reasonable

basis for the grievance. No record of a grievance will be kept in the grievant’s file.

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The kick-off for Positive Behavior Support began during the 2009-2010 school year. Positive

Behavior Support will allow us the opportunity to provide a consistent and fair behavior plan.

Research and empirical evidence shows that students achieve at a higher level when they know

the expectations and feel safe. Positive Behavior Support will help us improve both of these.

Our plan provides detailed expectations in every area of the school while putting an extreme

emphasis on safety. The success of our plan will improve with time and with the participation of

all staff at Smith Middle School. The PBS handbook below describes the entire initiative in

detail.

Our plan will focus on three areas:

Safety Respect Responsibility

What exactly is Positive Behavior Support?

Provides school-wide expectations (matrix) for behaviors that are clearly stated, widely promoted, and frequently referenced

Provides a consistent and fair behavior plan

Provides modeling of positive and proactive social behaviors throughout the school environment

A process that is consistent with the core principles of Response to Intervention (RTI)

Offers a range of interventions that are systematically applied to students based on individual or entire school needs

Decisions to modify behavior are based on data

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Three-Tiered Model of School-wide Behavior Support This model shows the area where PBS will support our students, as we move up the triangle, student

interventions will get more specific and individualized depending on the needs of the student.

Chronically Disruptive

5 %

At-Risk Students 10-15 %

Classroom and small group settings

Universal 80 -90% of students

School wide Interventions Positive Behavior Support

Intensive Social Skills Training

Individual Behavior Plan

Parent Training and Collaboration

Multi-Agency Collaboration

Classroom management support

Simple Behavior Plans

School-based mentors

Alternatives to suspension

Target interventions

Teaching School Behavior Expectations

Positive Reinforcement for all students

Consistent consequences for problem

behaviors

Effective instruction and classroom

management

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Explanation of the Big Ideas of PBS

The PBS Model has 6 components that Smith Middle School will use to implement this plan:

1. Identify Expectations

2. Teaching Positive Behavior

3. Monitor Positive Behavior

4. Acknowledge/Encourage Expected Behavior

5. Correct Behavior Errors (continuum of consequences)

6. Use Information for Decision Making

1. Identify Expectations The Smith Matrix identifies expectations for all areas of our building; it is also located in

the student’s planner and in all areas of the building for quick reference.

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2. Teaching Positive Behavioral Expectations Guidelines for Teaching Positive Behavior Expectations

(The Matrix)

How long should it take to teach the behaviors on the Matrix?

Plan to teach the expectations over the first few days of school and reinforce throughout the school year.

A PBS video and a rotation schedule will be provided. Teachers will be asked to accompany students to the different areas of the school described in the matrix.

Expectations will need to be strongly reinforced throughout the year, especially during the first two weeks of school.

How often should I teach the Matrix through the remainder of the school year?

As problems arise in a certain area or time of the day then re-teach the expectations for that time or location.

Sample Teaching Strategies and Lessons

Use classroom discussion

Brainstorm a list of actions to show respect

Have students talk about a person or character from a book that they respect

Role-play both appropriate/inappropriate behaviors

Create bulletin boards showing respect, responsibility, and/or safety

TEACH and practice procedures – If a student doesn’t know how to read, we teach. If a student doesn’t know how to swim, we teach.

If a student doesn’t know how to multiply, we teach. If a student doesn’t know how to behave, we punish?

-John Herner

What do you mean by “teach” the expectations? I always go over the class rules.

By teach we mean show, as in model, demonstrate, or role-play. Have the students get up and practice exactly what you want them to do.

Re-teach the behaviors as often as it takes for the students to master the expectations. This will be extremely important to take time to re-teach during the first two weeks of school.

We need to make sure that our students get enough practice in demonstrating the positive behavior expectations so they become second nature and the students actually use them when we are not around.

How is this different from my classroom procedures?

The positive behavior expectations may very well be similar to your current classroom procedures and should be included if they are not. The matrix is grounded in the core values of SAFETY, RESPECT and RESPONSIBILITY. Part of our objective is to have a consistent approach in every area of the building and to teach students these core values beyond the level of simple classroom procedures.

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Teaching PBS Rotation Schedule

The Matrix will be taught to each grade on different days:

6th

- Monday, September 13

7th

- Tuesday, September 14

8th

– Wednesday, September 15

On the day that you will be teaching the matrix, please follow the guidelines below:

1. View rotation schedule (above) to see what section of the matrix you will be

teaching.

2. Use the PowerPoint presentation with video clips located in the teacher folder 10-11 under “Teaching PBS” and play your section for the students.

3. After viewing the video, accompany students to that particular area of the building.

4. Discuss and/or role-play correct expectations versus incorrect expectations.

Subject Matrix Topics to Teach All History/Global Studies

will be responsible for:

Cafeteria/Gym

Field Trip/Assemblies

All Math teachers will be

responsible for:

Arrival/Departure

Bus

Restroom

All English teachers will be

responsible for:

Classroom

Hallways

Office/Clinic

All Science Studies will be

responsible for:

In All Settings

Media Center/Computer Lab

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3. Monitoring Expected Behavior

Guidelines for monitoring expected behaviors

Classroom

Setting Systems

School-wide

Systems

School-wide Positive

Behavior Support

Systems

Successful monitoring requires that all staff members monitor students in all areas, including class and non-classroom settings (ie. Cafeteria, hallways, bathrooms, buses, parking lots, media center, assemblies, sporting events, dances).

Good supervision techniques include but are not limited to, scanning, moving around positively, obviously, interactively and unpredictably.

Interact with positive contact and reinforcement.

Use school-wide procedures for handling minor and major rule violations

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4. Acknowledging/Encouraging Expected Behaviors

At Smith, we recognize that it is important to acknowledge and encourage expected behaviors

with the use of rewards. We are working on developing more school-wide rewards, such as, chill

time and movie night which we implemented last year with great success. We also recognize that

too many rewards may diminish the need to do good things just for the sake of doing good things.

We will be limiting our reward system while at the same time meeting the needs of our students

need for acknowledgment.

What Makes a Good Reward?

1. Readily Available

2. Appropriate to the environment

3. Easy to deliver

4. Can be controlled by the teacher

5. Is powerful to the student

Gold Cards

Gold Cards are tickets that carry a positive message and a place for the recipient’s name. The tickets are given to student to recognize when they have performed positive behavior expectations identified by the matrix. They will be placed in a designated box in the office for weekly drawings.

1. Select the specific positive behaviors you wish to target for reinforcement.

2. Explain the program to students. Tell them the behaviors that will result in their earning tickets. Give examples of desired behaviors: role-play if necessary to make certain the students understand the expectations.

3. Give tickets generously for the targeted behaviors.

4. When giving out the tickets specifically describe the praise the behavior for which the card is being given.

Knight of the Week Please limit your nominations to five per week.

Knights will be announced during Monday announcements.

Printed certificates can be placed in Jennifer Hartenburg’s mailbox or in her office.

Nominations are based on the following criteria: 1. Service 2. Positive attitude 3. Cooperation 4. Academic Improvement 5. Leadership 6. Initiative and responsibility 7. A unique contribution to school or community

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5. Correcting Behavioral Error

When does a teacher refer a student?

A student should be immediately referred and escorted to the office if they are jeopardizing the safety of themselves or others. Please do not hesitate to call the office for assistance. For a minor discipline issue, be sure to utilize all classroom strategies and try at least two items under 2nd rule violation (see consequences flowchart below),

such as, detention and a phone call home. The discipline referral system is meant for students with chronic discipline problems. This system does not take the place of your own discipline procedures in your classroom. To refer a student, go to the link below and fill out the online form. The assistant principal will receive an email and will then enter it into a database. This database is accessible to all teachers. This database will be updated on a weekly basis.

Please keep in mind that administrative interventions could include more than “consequences”, depending on the circumstances. This could include, social skills training, mentoring, parent meetings, natural consequences (ie. cleaning lockers after they were vandalized), etc. Wherever possible, we will be utilizing different strategies as research shows that suspensions and detentions rarely change a student’s behavior.

Online referral link

http://www.educationmadeeasy.net/Student%20Referral%20Form.htm

If a student doesn’t know how to read, we teach. If a student doesn’t know how to swim, we teach.

If a student doesn’t know how to multiply, we teach. If a student doesn’t know how to behave, we punish?

-John Herner

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CONSEQUENCES FOR PROBLEM BEHAVIOR

Is Behavior a

Major or Minor

Infraction?

Ensure Safety.

Fill out Online Student Referral Form (if possible) and send student or call

office for an escort.

Student will be dealt with

under the Rights and Responsibilities/ Student Code of Conduct.

Observe Problem Behaviors

Teacher utilizes positive classroom strategies to

avoid problem behaviors.

Minor Infractions Examples could include but not limited to: Disruptive Behavior (yelling out, distracting others, etc.) Electronic Devices (cell phones out, IPods, etc.) Insubordination (refusing to do work, moving seats, gum chewing, etc.) Inappropriate Dress (low shirt, low pants, short skirt, etc.)

2ND RULE VIOLATION

Corrective Teaching Possible actions taken by the teacher: Conference with student Time out with reflection

form Referred to counselor Detention Parent Contacted Other

3RD RULE VIOLATION *ADMINISTRATION

INTERVENTION

Staff fills out

Online Student Referral Form

Please see student discipline spreadsheet in teacher folder for

consequence given.

1ST RULE VIOLATION

Corrective Teaching

*Warning: Administrative Interventions could include more than “consequences”, such as, social skills training, appropriate feedback, mentoring, etc. Wherever possible, we will be utilizing different strategies as research shows that “consequences” rarely changes

a student behavior.

Major Infractions Examples could include but not limited to: Fighting Harassment Stealing Vandalism Drugs and/or Alcohol

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6. Use Information for Decision-Making Below is an example of data that we will be using from last year’s referrals to make decisions on areas we need to

improve on. Our goal is to have a decrease in referrals from year to year by utilizing and improving our PBS

system.

SMS 2009-2010 STUDENT REFERRAL BEHAVIOR CODES

SEP. OCT. NOV. DEC. JAN. FEB MAR APR MAY JUN TOTALS

Class Cutting (01) 2 2

Disruptive Behavior (02) 13 36 13 11 19 38 24 13 28 40 235

Electronic Device (03) 1 3 2 1 2 2 11

Inappropriate Dress (04) 0

Assault/Battery (11) 1 2 1 1 1 2 3 11

Disruption Ed Proc (12) 0

Elec Access Codes (13) 0

Fighting (14) 1 1

Fireworks (15) 1 2 5 2 5 4 19

Forgery/Lying (16) 0

Gambling (17) 1 2 2 1 1 2 3 12

Harassment (18) 0

Insubordination (19) 5 5 1 1 1 5 7 5 4 34

Misuse/online (20) 4 35 9 13 14 33 20 20 30 19 197

Smoking/Tobacco (21) 1 1

Stealing < $100 (23) 0

Vandalism <$100 (25) 3 7 1 11

Vulgarity/Indecency (26) 3 4 1 2 10

Arson (28) 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 8

Poss/Conc of Weapon (36) 0

Alcohol (42) 0

Other: 0

TOTALS 2 1 2 1 6

26 88 33 32 38 86 64 43 72 77 559

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Appendix

Student Policy and Procedures

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TRIPLE A’S to BETTER

LISTENING

Listening is a difficult skill to master. One

of the most important ways to learn is

through listening. Often times, we do not

really hear what is said and yet we need to

listen in order to follow directions, to learn

new ideas, to appreciate music, drama and

good speech and enjoy the friendship of

others.

To be a good listener, you must learn to

share a speaker’s thoughts without saying

anything yourself – until the speaker is

finished. This is difficult!

FOLLOW THE TRIPLE A’S TO BETTER

LISTENING TO IMPROVE THIS

IMPORTANT SKILL: be attentive

Posture- Sit up straight at your

desk and lean slightly toward

the speaker. This will help you

concentrate on what is being

said.

Eye Contact- Look at the

speaker’s face while he/she is

talking. If the speaker is using

visual aids (ex. Overheads,

books, handouts, white board),

look at those

materials.

Acknowledge

Accept the information

presented by the speaker by

nodding, taking notes and

answering questions.

No side talking

Ask

Relate- Try to “think about”

what you already know about

the topic at hand.

Ask questions.

DRESS CODE POLICY

We ask for students and parents’ to select apparel

that fits within the Dress Code Policy. Students

who wear inappropriate clothing will be asked to

change or call their parents to bring them appropriate

clothing. Continued problems will result in discipline

as outlined in the Troy School District’s Rights and Responsibilities Code of Student Conduct Handbook.

1. Shorts, shirts, or dresses must fall below mid-

thigh. They must be below the student’s

fingertips when students are standing and their

arms at their sides.

2. No halter-tops, bare midriffs, tank tops or

spaghetti strap tops may be worn by either boys

or girls. See through or open mesh tops are

unacceptable when worn alone. Acceptable tops

must have straps that are approximately three

fingers wide.

3. No clothing with inappropriate messages may be

worn. This includes but is not limited to sexual

reference, profanity, alcohol or drugs.

4. No hats or head coverings may be worn in school

unless religiously mandated.

5. Coats, jackets, backpacks and other outside

dress must be left in lockers.

6. Clothing should be of proper fit and not

revealing. Baggy pants, which display

underwear, are unacceptable.

7. For safety reasons, shoes must be worn at all

times.

CELL PHONE POLICY:

If a student must make a phone call during the day he/she may come to the office and use the clinic phone. The office phone is to be used for emergencies only. Students may not use their cell phones without permission of a staff member during the school day. Students will be called to the office to receive phone calls only in the event of an emergency. PLEASE do not text or call your student on their cell phones during school hours.

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TARDY POLICY

Students have five (5) minutes passing time to travel from classroom to classroom. Students must be in the room and in their seats when class begins. If a teacher detains a student after class, that teacher should issue a pass excusing the student’s tardiness to the next class.

The following procedures will be followed:

1. A student will be considered tardy if he/she is not in his/her seat when the bell rings indicating the beginning of class.

2. UNEXCUSED TARDIES will be recorded by the teacher in the teacher workstation permanent records.

3. When a student receives his/her 4th tardy

during a ten-week period, a letter will be generated by the Assistant Principal notifying the student’s parents that additional tardies will result in displinary action.

4. When a student receives his/her 5th tardy, a conference will be held with the student and a letter will be sent home with the student to be signed by their parent/guardian.

5. When a student receives his/her 6th tardy, the parents will be contacted and the student will serve a detention.

6. When a student receives his/her 7th tardy the discipline procedure outlined in the Student Rights and Responsibilities Code of Conduct will be followed. Excessive tardiness will be considered insubordination and may result in a suspension

LUNCH TIME POLICIES

GYMNASIUM: Students may not wear street shoes when

participating in activities. No playing tag or keep away. Take proper care of equipment. When not playing, please stay off courts and stay in

bleacher area. Everyone has a right to play. If you are hurt, notify the person in charge

immediately. Violators of the above rules may be penalized by

losing your gym privileges.

MEDIA CENTER Students must obtain a pass before school or during

passing time prior to 4th hour from Mrs. Pickering to reserve a spot to use the library during lunch hour.

The pass must be shown to a principal or counselor before the student will be allowed to leave the cafeteria.

Upon entering the library, the students must sign-up and state his or her purpose to use the library.

While in the library, each student may use the facilities for academic purposes only.

Students must remain in the library for the entire lunch hour.

COURTYARD: Students must remain in the grassy areas, benches

or brick pavers. Food or drink must remain in the cafeteria. Leave wildlife alone. (ie. Grasshoppers, birds, fish,

worms, etc.)

COW RULES (how to use laptops properly)

1. Always sign in

2. Carry with both hands

3. Only use on hard surfaces

4. No food or drinks

5. Do not touch the screen

6. Perform complete shut down

7. Report damage

Bus Policy Many students ride a bus to and from school. Student safety is a top priority. Good conduct is expected of all students. The Student Code of Conduct is in effect while the student is riding the bus or at the bus stop. On occasion, a student may need to ride home with a friend. In that case, a note from home informing us of the change is required. This note must be signed by the principal or assistant principal and then presented to the bus driver. The host student is responsible for the conduct for his/her guest. Requests to ride with another student will only be honored when there is available seating on the bus. No request will be honored on the

last two days half days of June.

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LANYARD PASS POLICY

1. Be sure to ask permission from your teacher

before you take the lanyard pass.

2. Print the date, your full name, time out, and

destination on this form.

3. Put the pass around your neck before you

leave the room.

4. When you return, write the time in on the

form

5. BE SURE TO RETURN THE PASS to the

hook, or your teacher.

COMPUTER LAB PROCEDURES

1. Students sit at their assigned seats.

2. Chairs remain where they are located. Do

not alter height.

3. Use computers as directed!

a. Download only with teacher

approval.

b. Download to your user folder not

the desktop.

c. Games must be educational and with

teacher approval.

d. Email only with teacher permission.

4. To print from websites:

a. Text highlights, then choose “print

selection”.

b. Graphics-right click mouse to copy,

then paste to a word document.

5. No food or drink.

6. At the end of the hour:

a. Pick up all paper around the

computer the printer.

b. Push in all chairs.

ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

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