Welcome To Welcome To Southside Middle SchoolSouthside Middle School

Mrs. SmithMrs. Smith

Mr. EcksteinMr. Eckstein

        Welcome to fifth grade!  We Welcome to fifth grade!  We are excited for the are excited for the opportunity to work with your opportunity to work with your child this year.  Fifth grade is child this year.  Fifth grade is a big step and a year of many a big step and a year of many changes as your child enters changes as your child enters middle school.   We are middle school.   We are looking forward to assisting looking forward to assisting him/her through this him/her through this transition.  In preparing for transition.  In preparing for the changes, your help is the changes, your help is needed too: needed too:      

*Check student agenda each night for *Check student agenda each night for assignments and notes from school.assignments and notes from school.

      *Enforce a quiet study/work time each *Enforce a quiet study/work time each evening so that your child accepts evening so that your child accepts responsibility and completes his/her responsibility and completes his/her homework appropriately and on time.homework appropriately and on time.

      *Insist that your child read every night *Insist that your child read every night to help him/her become a better reader and to help him/her become a better reader and accomplishes his/her AR goal.accomplishes his/her AR goal...

      *Communicate high expectations *Communicate high expectations regarding academic grades, homework, regarding academic grades, homework, behavior, etc.behavior, etc.

      *Praise and encourage your child for *Praise and encourage your child for his/her efforts. his/her efforts.

     *Contact us immediately if you have *Contact us immediately if you have any questions, concerns, etc. any questions, concerns, etc.

• A good learning experience is built on a A good learning experience is built on a cooperative effort between family, the cooperative effort between family, the student, and teachers. student, and teachers.

• Studies show that parental involvement Studies show that parental involvement in a child’s education is one of the in a child’s education is one of the strongest indicators of student strongest indicators of student achievement. achievement.

• I hope you will make it a priority this I hope you will make it a priority this year to be involved in your child’s year to be involved in your child’s education.education.

Agendas/Locker BinsAgendas/Locker Bins• Each student will receive an agenda Each student will receive an agenda

from his/her homeroom teacher. Your from his/her homeroom teacher. Your child is responsible for writing child is responsible for writing assignments in the agenda and other assignments in the agenda and other important information. This is also the important information. This is also the student hall pass and is required to be student hall pass and is required to be in the hallways. A $5.00 donation is in the hallways. A $5.00 donation is requested to cover the high costs of requested to cover the high costs of these agendas.these agendas.

• Lockers & bins are the property of Lockers & bins are the property of Tallassee City Schools and are subject Tallassee City Schools and are subject to inspection and/or search at anytime.to inspection and/or search at anytime.

Dress Code:Dress Code:See Student Agendas and SMS See Student Agendas and SMS

handbook for any changes!handbook for any changes!• All shorts and skirts no more than 4 inches All shorts and skirts no more than 4 inches

above the kneeabove the knee• No spaghetti straps or plain white T-shirtsNo spaghetti straps or plain white T-shirts• Girls wear shorts under all dresses and Girls wear shorts under all dresses and

skirtsskirts• Shirts need to be tucked Shirts need to be tucked • No sagging pants or shortsNo sagging pants or shorts• Tennis shoes required for PETennis shoes required for PE

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BreakBreak

• There will be a fifth grade break. You are expected to use There will be a fifth grade break. You are expected to use this time as a bathroom break as well. You must move to a this time as a bathroom break as well. You must move to a designated area where you may talk to your friends and designated area where you may talk to your friends and just “hang out” for 10 minutes. There will be no “horse just “hang out” for 10 minutes. There will be no “horse play”, playing chase, or throwing objects during break. play”, playing chase, or throwing objects during break. There are too many people in the area for this to be There are too many people in the area for this to be considered acceptable behavior. Please put trash into the considered acceptable behavior. Please put trash into the appropriate containers, line up with your class, and move appropriate containers, line up with your class, and move quietly down the hall and to your class when break is over. quietly down the hall and to your class when break is over. If a teacher’s door is shut, you are not to go in the If a teacher’s door is shut, you are not to go in the classroom. No one is allowed in a classroom when the classroom. No one is allowed in a classroom when the teacher is not present. DO NOT “hang out” in the teacher is not present. DO NOT “hang out” in the bathrooms. If you need to go to break and come back later bathrooms. If you need to go to break and come back later because it is too crowded… PLEASE do that! Use your own because it is too crowded… PLEASE do that! Use your own discretion. discretion.

• Students may bring snacks and a drink from home. This Students may bring snacks and a drink from home. This needs to be quick and not messy.needs to be quick and not messy.

LunchLunchPlease remember what we go to the cafeteria for… TO EAT.  Please remember what we go to the cafeteria for… TO EAT.  Keep your noise level to a minimum. We do not have a problem Keep your noise level to a minimum. We do not have a problem with you socializing with those at your table, but not in the lunch with you socializing with those at your table, but not in the lunch line or at tables down or behind you. Excessive noise will hinder line or at tables down or behind you. Excessive noise will hinder the digestion process. You are to be respectful of the facilities, the digestion process. You are to be respectful of the facilities, yourself, and other people’s space at lunch.  Fix your lunch tray yourself, and other people’s space at lunch.  Fix your lunch tray carefully, sit down in your designated area, and eat. When you carefully, sit down in your designated area, and eat. When you are finished, we will go to the trash cans as a group and line up are finished, we will go to the trash cans as a group and line up quietly. Make sure you clean up what you mess up and pick up quietly. Make sure you clean up what you mess up and pick up what you drop. There will be students from each class asked to what you drop. There will be students from each class asked to wipe tables and sweep up after the class is finished, but they will wipe tables and sweep up after the class is finished, but they will have limited time before the next group comes in, so clean up have limited time before the next group comes in, so clean up your own mishaps and trash. The cafeteria staff will brief you on your own mishaps and trash. The cafeteria staff will brief you on specific cafeteria procedures. If outside lunch coupons are used, specific cafeteria procedures. If outside lunch coupons are used, respectful behavior is expected. respectful behavior is expected.

Southside Middle School: Southside Middle School: Contact InformationContact Information

1.1. If you have any questions, concerns, If you have any questions, concerns, or would like to volunteer to help or would like to volunteer to help out; you can contact us at 283-2151. out; you can contact us at 283-2151. Messages can be left on our class Messages can be left on our class phones, to which we will respond as phones, to which we will respond as soon as possible. soon as possible.

2.2. www.tcschools.comwww.tcschools.com: Go to Southside; : Go to Southside; select 5select 5thth grade, then teacher. grade, then teacher.

3.3. Conferences:Conferences:  Call 283-2151 to set   Call 283-2151 to set up an appointment for an in school up an appointment for an in school conference or a phone conference. conference or a phone conference. Our planning time is from 10:00-Our planning time is from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Monday through Friday.11:00 a.m. Monday through Friday.

Medication at SMS:Medication at SMS:

Medication may only be given if there is a Medication may only be given if there is a completed medication form. (also a completed medication form. (also a download on school web site) Medications download on school web site) Medications must be in the original containers and must be in the original containers and dosages (times and amounts) must be dosages (times and amounts) must be provided.  All medication and inhalers provided.  All medication and inhalers must be kept in the nurses office.  must be kept in the nurses office.  Medications are not dispensed or allowed Medications are not dispensed or allowed in the classroom. in the classroom. Parents must bring all Parents must bring all medication to the school nursemedication to the school nurse..

Fundamental PrincipleFundamental Principle

Class Time Is Reserved For Learning! Class Time Is Reserved For Learning! Students are expected to:Students are expected to:

• Be PreparedBe Prepared

• Be RespectfulBe Respectful

• Be ResponsibleBe Responsible

• Be CourteousBe Courteous

• Be HonestBe Honest

Voice LevelsVoice Levels

0 – NO Sound0 – NO Sound1 – WHISPER1 – WHISPER2 – SMALL GROUP (ONLY PEOPLE IN GROUP CAN 2 – SMALL GROUP (ONLY PEOPLE IN GROUP CAN

HEAR)HEAR)3 – PRESENTATIONS3 – PRESENTATIONS4 – OUTSIDE VOICE LEVEL4 – OUTSIDE VOICE LEVEL*There is “0” (no talking) allowed in hallways at any *There is “0” (no talking) allowed in hallways at any

time. Changing classes needs to be done quickly time. Changing classes needs to be done quickly and quietly so as to not waste instructional time.and quietly so as to not waste instructional time.

*Lunchroom - #2 voices – loud talking will result in *Lunchroom - #2 voices – loud talking will result in silent lunch by group, individual, or grade.silent lunch by group, individual, or grade.

Math: Mrs. SmithMath: Mrs. SmithStudents will be involved in textbook Students will be involved in textbook lessons and investigations that allow them lessons and investigations that allow them to communicate with one another and take to communicate with one another and take part in cooperative learning experiences.  A part in cooperative learning experiences.  A working knowledge of math facts including working knowledge of math facts including addition, subtraction, and multiplication is addition, subtraction, and multiplication is crucial. crucial. Units of study include:Units of study include:

• Place ValuePlace Value• Addition and SubtractionAddition and Subtraction• GraphingGraphing• Multiplication and DivisionMultiplication and Division• Fraction ConceptsFraction Concepts• Fraction OperationsFraction Operations• GeometryGeometry• MeasurementMeasurement• ProbabilityProbability• AlgebraAlgebra

* TEAM Math investigations will be used.* TEAM Math investigations will be used.

Language Arts: Mr. Language Arts: Mr. EcksteinEckstein

The essential elements consist of whole class reading, The essential elements consist of whole class reading, independent reading, writing, spelling, grammar, independent reading, writing, spelling, grammar, listening, and speaking. listening, and speaking.

• Whole Class/Small Group Reading Whole Class/Small Group Reading - The class/group - The class/group reads and discusses one book together.reads and discusses one book together.

• Writing Writing - Students will develop skills through using - Students will develop skills through using the writing process of prewriting, drafting, revising, the writing process of prewriting, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing. editing, and publishing. 

• Spelling Spelling - Students will complete a spelling packet - Students will complete a spelling packet during center work in class. Spelling tests will be during center work in class. Spelling tests will be every other Friday. every other Friday.

Reading: Mr. EcksteinReading: Mr. Eckstein

Literature Text Books Literature Text Books – – Reading Reading skills, vocabulary, and skills, vocabulary, and comprehension tests.comprehension tests.

AR: Both Teachers by AR: Both Teachers by Homeroom Homeroom

Grading: The Following three AR grades are Grading: The Following three AR grades are averaged for a separate AR grade on the averaged for a separate AR grade on the report card (not averaged with reading class). report card (not averaged with reading class).

• Average Test GradeAverage Test Grade• Percent of Point GoalPercent of Point Goal• Reading Responsibility – Reading log reflects Reading Responsibility – Reading log reflects

books read and daily page counts for AR testsbooks read and daily page counts for AR tests

Renaissance Home Connect Renaissance Home Connect By logging on from their home computer, By logging on from their home computer,

students and parents can:students and parents can:• See progress toward reading goals. See progress toward reading goals. • Conduct book searches using AR Conduct book searches using AR

BookfinderBookfinder• Review results on AR quizzes. Review results on AR quizzes. • View number of books read, words read, View number of books read, words read,

and quizzes passed. and quizzes passed. • And much, much more.And much, much more.Renaissance Home Connect involves parents Renaissance Home Connect involves parents

by providing a direct link to what students by providing a direct link to what students are working on at school. are working on at school. Get Parents Involved with Renaissance HoGet Parents Involved with Renaissance Home Connect - Accelerated Readerme Connect - Accelerated Reader (Passwords will be sent home) (Passwords will be sent home)

Accelerated Reader Code of ConductAccelerated Reader Code of ConductThe purpose of the Accelerated Reader program is to The purpose of the Accelerated Reader program is to encourage reading and improve reading skills. With this in encourage reading and improve reading skills. With this in mind, students are expected to follow the mind, students are expected to follow the rulesrules described described below:below:

1. Students may only take tests on books they have read in 1. Students may only take tests on books they have read in class or that someone has read to them in class.class or that someone has read to them in class.

2. Students may not take a test on a book which has been 2. Students may not take a test on a book which has been made into a movie unless they have read the book and it is made into a movie unless they have read the book and it is logged in their AR folder.logged in their AR folder.

3. Students may not use Cliff notes, classic comic books, 3. Students may not use Cliff notes, classic comic books, videos, or abridged versions of the book to try to pass the videos, or abridged versions of the book to try to pass the test.test.

4. Students may not take tests for other students.4. Students may not take tests for other students.5. Students may not discuss AR questions or answers with 5. Students may not discuss AR questions or answers with

other students.other students.Consequences:Consequences: Students who break the rules will face the Students who break the rules will face the

following consequences:following consequences:1. The test or tests involved in the cheating incident will 1. The test or tests involved in the cheating incident will

receive a score of 0.receive a score of 0.2. The student will not be able to earn any rewards in the AR 2. The student will not be able to earn any rewards in the AR

program for the remainder of the school year.program for the remainder of the school year.

Accelerated Reader Test Accelerated Reader Test ProceduresProcedures

1.1.Make sure you have completely logged in your book Make sure you have completely logged in your book and pages read in your AR folder. and pages read in your AR folder.

2.2.Take your AR folder to the teacher for permission to Take your AR folder to the teacher for permission to take a test.take a test.

3.3.Write book title, level, possible points, and date on Write book title, level, possible points, and date on your Test Record Sheet.your Test Record Sheet.

4.4.Log into AR and take the test. Make sure the quiz Log into AR and take the test. Make sure the quiz number on the book matches the quiz number on the number on the book matches the quiz number on the computer.computer.

5.5.Log your score in your AR folder and points on your Log your score in your AR folder and points on your Test Record Sheet.Test Record Sheet.

6.6.Take AR folder and agenda to the teacher for a Take AR folder and agenda to the teacher for a signature and to get a Library pass.signature and to get a Library pass.

7.7.Fill out Library pass and agenda completely. Go Fill out Library pass and agenda completely. Go straight to the Library and back quickly and quietly. straight to the Library and back quickly and quietly. Remember the cameras are always watching.Remember the cameras are always watching.

*Cheating or providing false information will result in a *Cheating or providing false information will result in a loss of 5 points on your “Reading Responsibility” loss of 5 points on your “Reading Responsibility” portion of your AR grade.portion of your AR grade.

Social Studies: Mr. Social Studies: Mr. EcksteinEckstein

The essential elements of the 5th grade social The essential elements of the 5th grade social studies curriculum focus on United States studies curriculum focus on United States history.history.

Units of Study include:Units of Study include:• Geography skillsGeography skills• Native AmericansNative Americans• ExplorationExploration• European Settlement   European Settlement   • New England, Middle Atlantic Colonies, and New England, Middle Atlantic Colonies, and

Southern ColoniesSouthern Colonies• Revolutionary War and Formation of a New Revolutionary War and Formation of a New

GovernmentGovernment• Westward ExpansionWestward Expansion• Civil War and ReconstructionCivil War and Reconstruction

Science: Mrs. SmithScience: Mrs. Smith

Students are involved with reading and Students are involved with reading and comprehending textbook material and are comprehending textbook material and are involved with hands on learning with labs involved with hands on learning with labs that allows them to explore as they cover that allows them to explore as they cover various science concepts. Students will also various science concepts. Students will also be involved with various units through be involved with various units through AMSTI (Ecosystems, Variables, Solar Energy, AMSTI (Ecosystems, Variables, Solar Energy, and Micro-Worlds).and Micro-Worlds).

These units of study include:These units of study include:

• Life ScienceLife Science

• Earth ScienceEarth Science

• Physical SciencePhysical Science

Physical EducationPhysical Education All 5All 5thth grade goes together grade goes together

Tennis Shoes Required! Girls must wear Tennis Shoes Required! Girls must wear shorts under dresses or skirts.  A Physical shorts under dresses or skirts.  A Physical Education Handbook and medical release Education Handbook and medical release will be sent home for you to read and sign. will be sent home for you to read and sign. Fifth graders are not required to “dress Fifth graders are not required to “dress out” for PE.out” for PE.

See through water bottles are allowed with See through water bottles are allowed with plain water only.plain water only.

PE WaterPE Water Students are allowed to bring Students are allowed to bring

water bottles to use after PE. water bottles to use after PE. Plain water only is allowed Plain water only is allowed (frozen if in a plastic bag). Spills (frozen if in a plastic bag). Spills are easy to clean up and will not are easy to clean up and will not cause ants or sticky problems in cause ants or sticky problems in the classroom.the classroom.

Internet Usage Policy:Internet Usage Policy:

Southside is connected to the global Southside is connected to the global community by use of the Internet. The community by use of the Internet. The Internet offers ways to share ideas, Internet offers ways to share ideas, transmit information, and add to the transmit information, and add to the educational opportunity of students and educational opportunity of students and staff alike. An Acceptable Use Agreement is staff alike. An Acceptable Use Agreement is used to ensure that everyone who accesses used to ensure that everyone who accesses the Internet does so knowledgeably and the Internet does so knowledgeably and responsibly. Accordingly, the school has responsibly. Accordingly, the school has established regulations for the use of the established regulations for the use of the network system. A permission form must network system. A permission form must be signed for Internet use.be signed for Internet use.

TechnologyTechnology• School Web Address School Web Address www.tcschools.comwww.tcschools.com - -

email teachers, download forms, email teachers, download forms, assignments, announcements, and assignments, announcements, and important eventsimportant events

• AR access for parents/students to check AR access for parents/students to check book levels and goalsbook levels and goals

• Telephone system – leave a message for a Telephone system – leave a message for a specific teacher; call out feature to notify specific teacher; call out feature to notify parents (make sure correct telephone parents (make sure correct telephone number is on file)number is on file)

• Promethean BoardPromethean Board

• Active Inspire Active Inspire

Internet Resources - Educational Internet Resources - Educational GamesGames::

• Create a GraphCreate a Graph - Create your own special area, bar, line, or - Create your own special area, bar, line, or pie graph pie graph

• Discoveryschool.comDiscoveryschool.com - Challenging brain boosters: - Challenging brain boosters: Categorization, Lateral Thinking, Logic, Number and Math Categorization, Lateral Thinking, Logic, Number and Math Play, Reasoning, Spatial Awareness Word, and Letter Play Play, Reasoning, Spatial Awareness Word, and Letter Play

• Farm StandFarm Stand - A math game involving a farm stand - A math game involving a farm stand • Learning Games Galore!Learning Games Galore! - Play WordSearch, Hangman, - Play WordSearch, Hangman,

Crosswords, Match Game, and Quiz where you test you Crosswords, Match Game, and Quiz where you test you knowledge at quizzes like Animal Kingdom, At the Movies, knowledge at quizzes like Animal Kingdom, At the Movies, Business and Money, Law and Order, Let's Go Shopping, Business and Money, Law and Order, Let's Go Shopping, Opposites and Synonyms, Reading and Writing, Staying Opposites and Synonyms, Reading and Writing, Staying Healthy, What is My Profession, and World of Science Healthy, What is My Profession, and World of Science

• Math BaseballMath Baseball - Practice math through playing baseball! - Practice math through playing baseball! • Math Challenges for K-5 LearnersMath Challenges for K-5 Learners - Aunty Math - A site to - Aunty Math - A site to

visit every day for math challenges visit every day for math challenges • Math JourneyMath Journey - Travel around the world by answering math - Travel around the world by answering math

problems problems • Operation OrderOperation Order - Know your math operations in this - Know your math operations in this

challenge challenge • Whacky Web TalesWhacky Web Tales - Create your own whacky web tale - Create your own whacky web tale

Field Trips:Field Trips:Field trips are exciting learning Field trips are exciting learning opportunities for the students.  You will opportunities for the students.  You will be notified in advance regarding the be notified in advance regarding the details of the trip and asked to details of the trip and asked to complete and return a permission slip.  complete and return a permission slip.  If a student does not return a signed If a student does not return a signed permission slip, the student does not permission slip, the student does not accompany the class.  VERBAL accompany the class.  VERBAL PERMISSION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.  PERMISSION WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.  The cost of admission is required with The cost of admission is required with the permission slip. the permission slip.

Awards and Honor Roll:Awards and Honor Roll:

Students making perfect perfect Students making perfect perfect attendance, perfect attendance, A or attendance, perfect attendance, A or A-B honor roll, and the AAA students A-B honor roll, and the AAA students will be recognized at the end of each will be recognized at the end of each nine weeks. nine weeks.

HomeworkHomework• Homework is the key to success and therefore each student Homework is the key to success and therefore each student

is responsible for completing classroom requirements on is responsible for completing classroom requirements on time and with quality of thought.time and with quality of thought. Work is due the next class Work is due the next class day or specified time and must be easily located. day or specified time and must be easily located. Homework excuses result in a behavior check.Homework excuses result in a behavior check.

• Students are given time in school to begin their Students are given time in school to begin their homework. If your child is consistently coming home with a homework. If your child is consistently coming home with a great deal of homework and/or spending more than an hour great deal of homework and/or spending more than an hour a night on homework, then he/she is not using time wisely a night on homework, then he/she is not using time wisely in school.in school.

• On a rare occasion a child may be sick in the evening and On a rare occasion a child may be sick in the evening and unable to complete homework but is well enough to attend unable to complete homework but is well enough to attend school the next day. This seldom happens, but if it does, school the next day. This seldom happens, but if it does, send in a note the next day explaining this situation. send in a note the next day explaining this situation.

• Homework assignments are posted in each fifth grade Homework assignments are posted in each fifth grade classroom on the board.  Each student is responsible to classroom on the board.  Each student is responsible to record the assignments in his/her agenda, ask questions, record the assignments in his/her agenda, ask questions, and make sure he/she has the necessary materials to take and make sure he/she has the necessary materials to take home if the work has not been completed in school.  home if the work has not been completed in school. 

Homework Help:Homework Help:

• Ask Dr. MathAsk Dr. Math - Questions about math? Visit this link! - Questions about math? Visit this link! • Ask Dr. ScienceAsk Dr. Science - Do you have questions about science? - Do you have questions about science?

Visit this site to ask your question and have it answered. Visit this site to ask your question and have it answered. • Ask Jeeves and Homework HelpAsk Jeeves and Homework Help - Look over to the right and - Look over to the right and

click on a textbook in the area where you need help. click on a textbook in the area where you need help. • Fact MonsterFact Monster - Many topics for you to find facts on. Other - Many topics for you to find facts on. Other

topics: Lemony Snicket quizzes, Spelling Bee, In the News, topics: Lemony Snicket quizzes, Spelling Bee, In the News, Today's Birthday, Today in History, Word Quiz, Analogy of Today's Birthday, Today in History, Word Quiz, Analogy of the Day, Monster Poll and more! the Day, Monster Poll and more!

• Homework CenterHomework Center - A site to search for help with your - A site to search for help with your homework homework

• Word CentralWord Central - Can't find the meaning of a word? Visit this - Can't find the meaning of a word? Visit this site to type in your mystery word and discover its meaning. site to type in your mystery word and discover its meaning. Improve your vocabulary by clinking on the link titled - Improve your vocabulary by clinking on the link titled - Daily Buzz Word Daily Buzz Word

Study Tips: Study Tips: • Choose a well lit, quiet place at home Choose a well lit, quiet place at home

to do homework. to do homework. • Frequently replenish school supplies Frequently replenish school supplies

throughout the year. throughout the year. • Schedule a specific time each day for Schedule a specific time each day for

homework. homework. • Give your child help only if he or she Give your child help only if he or she

makes a real effort to do the work makes a real effort to do the work first. first.

• Review assignments in your child's Review assignments in your child's agenda agenda DAILYDAILY..

5th Grade Behavior 5th Grade Behavior GuidelinesGuidelines Our classroom rules: Our classroom rules:

1.1. Listen the first time.Listen the first time.2.2. Come to class prepared.Come to class prepared.3.3. Respect others and their property.Respect others and their property.4.4. Talk or leave your seat only with permission.Talk or leave your seat only with permission.5.5. Follow all classroom directions, policies, and procedures.Follow all classroom directions, policies, and procedures.

Basically…. Basically….

Take responsibility for your choices and actionsTake responsibility for your choices and actions    (i.e. When you    (i.e. When you made a good choice, praise yourself and continue making good made a good choice, praise yourself and continue making good choices.  If you made a bad choice or acted in an inappropriate choices.  If you made a bad choice or acted in an inappropriate manner, accept that it was not a good choice, do what is manner, accept that it was not a good choice, do what is appropriate to amend the unacceptable choice like apologize, etc., appropriate to amend the unacceptable choice like apologize, etc., and then learn from it to improve yourself.) and then learn from it to improve yourself.)

Respect yourself, others, and property Respect yourself, others, and property (i.e. Follow directions the first time they are given; keep hands, (i.e. Follow directions the first time they are given; keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself; receive permission before speaking; feet, and objects to yourself; receive permission before speaking; remain in designated area; do not use bad language, tease, or remain in designated area; do not use bad language, tease, or make unkind, disrespectful, or inappropriate remarks to other; make unkind, disrespectful, or inappropriate remarks to other; etc.) etc.)

Character EducationCharacter Education

• Character Education will be taught Character Education will be taught through out the year.through out the year.

• The students will have a character The students will have a character education calendar identifying the education calendar identifying the character theme for the month and character theme for the month and focus for each week.focus for each week.

SOAR Behavior Management Plan: Seeing Our Actions SOAR Behavior Management Plan: Seeing Our Actions RewardedRewarded

Goals of the Soar PlanGoals of the Soar Plan

• Promote greater student participation in classroom Promote greater student participation in classroom activities and assignments.activities and assignments.

• Increase parental knowledge of student behavior at school.Increase parental knowledge of student behavior at school.

• Decrease inappropriate behavior in the classroom by Decrease inappropriate behavior in the classroom by providing incentives for positive behavior.providing incentives for positive behavior.

Under the SOAR point system, students may earn or lose Under the SOAR point system, students may earn or lose points based on their behavior while attending Southside points based on their behavior while attending Southside Middle School.Middle School.

All students begin each nine weeks with 100 SOAR points. At All students begin each nine weeks with 100 SOAR points. At the end of each nine weeks, students with 80 points or the end of each nine weeks, students with 80 points or more will be able to attend a SOAR celebration. Students more will be able to attend a SOAR celebration. Students who maintain a 100 average for an entire semester will who maintain a 100 average for an entire semester will earn a special privilege. All students who maintain a 100 earn a special privilege. All students who maintain a 100 average for the entire school year will be invited to a very average for the entire school year will be invited to a very special event.special event.

More SOAR information on the point system will be sent home.More SOAR information on the point system will be sent home.

SOAR Celebrations and Dates will be posted in their agenda!SOAR Celebrations and Dates will be posted in their agenda!

S. O. A. R.S. O. A. R.Seeing Our Actions RewardedSeeing Our Actions Rewarded

• Parents are required to sign SOAR and AR folder Parents are required to sign SOAR and AR folder weekly (sent home on Tuesdays).weekly (sent home on Tuesdays).

• After school detention for all grades will be on After school detention for all grades will be on Wednesday & Thursday. Wednesday & Thursday.

• EARNING SOAR POINTSEARNING SOAR POINTS– Mandatory detention-occurs if you fall below an 80 average or Mandatory detention-occurs if you fall below an 80 average or

you lose 15 points from one teacher in one week (you earn you lose 15 points from one teacher in one week (you earn back 5 points for every mandatory detention you serve) back 5 points for every mandatory detention you serve)

– Voluntary detention-can be served to raise your SOAR Voluntary detention-can be served to raise your SOAR average (you earn back 5 points for each voluntary detention average (you earn back 5 points for each voluntary detention you serve). Voluntary detentions can be attended with you serve). Voluntary detentions can be attended with teacher approval. Students are required to have written teacher approval. Students are required to have written permission to stay (can be written in SOAR/AR folder). permission to stay (can be written in SOAR/AR folder).

– Students may earn 1 point by serving a voluntary silent lunchStudents may earn 1 point by serving a voluntary silent lunch

Positive ConsequencesPositive ConsequencesOur goal is to motivate students to be Our goal is to motivate students to be respectful, responsible, and to respectful, responsible, and to produce high quality work.  We will produce high quality work.  We will encourage this by utilizing the encourage this by utilizing the following incentives: following incentives:

• Verbal praise and recognition Verbal praise and recognition

• Earning privileges that reflect your Earning privileges that reflect your child’s willingness to act respectful child’s willingness to act respectful and accept responsibilityand accept responsibility

• SMS TokensSMS Tokens

• SOAR CelebrationsSOAR Celebrations

When A Student Is Tardy: When A Student Is Tardy:

• Get a tardy pass from the office. Get a tardy pass from the office.

• When you enter, take your tardy pass directly to When you enter, take your tardy pass directly to the teacher. the teacher.

• Tardy students will not be excused from morning Tardy students will not be excused from morning work. Get the assignment from a classmate and work. Get the assignment from a classmate and do it during break time.do it during break time.

• An excessive amount of tardies will lead to after An excessive amount of tardies will lead to after school detention.school detention. A student is tardy if they are not in the classroom when the 7:45 bell rings. We prefer A student is tardy if they are not in the classroom when the 7:45 bell rings. We prefer students be in the classroom earlier to insure plenty of time to get organized for the day.students be in the classroom earlier to insure plenty of time to get organized for the day.

When A Student Is Absent: When A Student Is Absent: A parental excuse is required upon return to A parental excuse is required upon return to class.class.

• After a student is absent, it is his/her responsibility to After a student is absent, it is his/her responsibility to check the absentee folders and notebook entries.check the absentee folders and notebook entries.

• Copies of all papers passed out during class or any Copies of all papers passed out during class or any notes that need to go home are placed inside the notes that need to go home are placed inside the folder.folder.

• Make-up Work:Make-up Work: The students will have up to five The students will have up to five

days following the absence in which to complete the days following the absence in which to complete the work.work.

• If a student is absent for two days, it is recommended If a student is absent for two days, it is recommended for someone to call and get make-up work to have at for someone to call and get make-up work to have at home. AR is always necessary to accomplish goals.home. AR is always necessary to accomplish goals.

CLASSROOM CLASSROOM PROCEDURESPROCEDURESDuring Instruction:During Instruction:• Listen to the teacher with full Listen to the teacher with full

attention. attention. • No pencil sharpening, talking, or No pencil sharpening, talking, or

whispering. whispering. • Don’t write anything during Don’t write anything during

instruction unless told to write. instruction unless told to write. • Ask permission to speak by raising Ask permission to speak by raising

your hand. your hand. • Ask questions related to the subject. Ask questions related to the subject. • After instruction, make sure you After instruction, make sure you

understand the concept. If not, ask understand the concept. If not, ask questions!!!!questions!!!!

Procedure for Group Work: Procedure for Group Work: Students will be placed in teacher chosen Students will be placed in teacher chosen groups.groups.1.1. Each member of the group has responsibility to contribute to Each member of the group has responsibility to contribute to

the group work.the group work.2.2. Each member of the group should be willing to help any other Each member of the group should be willing to help any other

member of the group who asks for help.member of the group who asks for help.3.3. Each member of the group is accountable for the learning Each member of the group is accountable for the learning

process of the group.process of the group.4.4. Within your group each member will respect each other and Within your group each member will respect each other and

listen to what each other has to say.listen to what each other has to say.5.5. When a question is asked of the group, each member should be When a question is asked of the group, each member should be

able to answer the question and state what the group’s able to answer the question and state what the group’s thoughts are.thoughts are.

6.6. Each member of the group has a role.Each member of the group has a role.7.7. Each group can ask for help when all members of the group Each group can ask for help when all members of the group

have the same question.have the same question.8.8. Members of a group should speak in a voice that can only be Members of a group should speak in a voice that can only be

heard by its members.heard by its members.9.9. Members of the group will be evaluated individually and Members of the group will be evaluated individually and

collectively.collectively.10.10.Each student must stay in their group area. If you need your Each student must stay in their group area. If you need your

teacher, raise your hand and she will come to you.teacher, raise your hand and she will come to you.

RestroomRestroom::

• Students should use the restroom during the Students should use the restroom during the scheduled times (homeroom, morning break, scheduled times (homeroom, morning break, before lunch, after lunch, and before PE), before lunch, after lunch, and before PE), otherwise, they will not be excused to go to the otherwise, they will not be excused to go to the restroom. restroom.

• Students that have medical problems need to Students that have medical problems need to have a written note explaining the problem. have a written note explaining the problem.

• Emergency RestroomEmergency Restroom –This procedure is –This procedure is expected to be used only in cases of extreme expected to be used only in cases of extreme emergency. Students must get permission to emergency. Students must get permission to leave the room and have their agenda signed. leave the room and have their agenda signed. Emergencies are occasional, not daily! Emergencies are occasional, not daily!

TextbooksTextbooks::

When students receive textbooks, it is When students receive textbooks, it is their responsibility to check them for their responsibility to check them for damage of any kind. If any books are damage of any kind. If any books are lost or damaged at the end of the lost or damaged at the end of the year, parents will be responsible for year, parents will be responsible for paying for them. Book covers are paying for them. Book covers are highly recommended. Science CD’s highly recommended. Science CD’s are available upon written request.are available upon written request.

Signed Papers/Behavior Signed Papers/Behavior Folders:Folders:

Graded papers will be sent home about Graded papers will be sent home about every other week or so for both classes. every other week or so for both classes. Parents view your child’s work, sign, Parents view your child’s work, sign, and make comments in the folder if and make comments in the folder if needed. There will be a SOAR score, needed. There will be a SOAR score, academic subject grades, and AR academic subject grades, and AR information. These folders are expected information. These folders are expected back on the following day (this is back on the following day (this is considered homework). Papers have to considered homework). Papers have to be returned as well. Papers are be returned as well. Papers are required to be kept on file at the required to be kept on file at the school, until the following school year.school, until the following school year.

Dismissal at the End of the day:Dismissal at the End of the day:Dismissal will be done from each classroom. Dismissal will be done from each classroom.

Students need to listen and leave when their bus Students need to listen and leave when their bus or wave is called and not before. The teacher or wave is called and not before. The teacher does not escort students to the bus. They are does not escort students to the bus. They are expected to be quiet while the buses are being expected to be quiet while the buses are being called and responsible enough to get where they called and responsible enough to get where they need to be in a timely manner. Bus riders will need to be in a timely manner. Bus riders will report to the area between the band room and report to the area between the band room and the gym. Walkers are to go directly to the the gym. Walkers are to go directly to the crossing guard to get escourted across the street. crossing guard to get escourted across the street. Car riders are to move, when they are called, to Car riders are to move, when they are called, to the front of the school to wait for their rides. the front of the school to wait for their rides. Students should pay attention and watch for their Students should pay attention and watch for their car so that pickup will go quickly. car so that pickup will go quickly.

Students move to their designated area by Students move to their designated area by going down the fifth grade hallway. Fifth graders going down the fifth grade hallway. Fifth graders are not allowed to go down the breezeway are not allowed to go down the breezeway between the 5th and 8th grade buildings at this between the 5th and 8th grade buildings at this time or in any other hall after school. There will time or in any other hall after school. There will be NO running, pushing, or shoving others. be NO running, pushing, or shoving others.

GRADINGGRADING90 – 100 = A 90 – 100 = A 

80 – 89 =  B 80 – 89 =  B   

70 – 79 = C  70 – 79 = C      

60 – 69 = D 60 – 69 = D 

0 - 59 = F0 - 59 = F

SuppliesSupplies*Please label all supplies with your child’s name *Please label all supplies with your child’s name except pocket except pocket

foldersfolders.. (Each class uses certain colors) (Each class uses certain colors)

2-Avery Index Divider 5-Big Tab Poly insertable w/double pockets2-Filler paper wide rule 150 ct.2-Pencils #2 sharpened 12 ctCrayola crayons 24 ct.Crayola colored pencils – sharpened 24 ct.Elmer’s washable school glue white 4 oz.Pencil sharpener w/ receptacle1- 2 inch, 3-Ring Zipper Binder -Black2- 2 pocket folder Poly w/clasp- yellow2- 2 pocket folder Poly w/clasp- purple2- 2 pocket folder Poly w/clasp- red1-Sharpie permanent marker fine point- black1- Highlighter chisel tip-yellow1-PaperMate pen medium point-red2-Pencil pouch zipper w/grommetsScissors stainless steel student pointed- 7 inch1-Composition book wide-ruled, black marble 100 ct. (9.75 x 7.5)1-Graph paper filler quad ruled ( 4x4) 3-hole 80 ct (11x 5)Index cards ruled white 100 ct. (3 x5)Reinforcements white 200 ct.

ADDITIONAL TEACHER WISH LIST:

Wish List for Mrs. smith’ and Mr. Eckstein’s classes:

KleenexPaper towelsHand sanitizerLiquid hand soap Clorox WipesZip-loc bags (all sizes)Copy paperStaplesPaper clipsScotch tapeNotebook paper (loose leaf paper)-wide ruledExtra #2 pencilsLarge Dry-Erase markersCard stock paperPost-it notes ( all sizes)Clear sheet protectors

Book bags may be used to transport Book bags may be used to transport items/books to and from school each items/books to and from school each day. They may not be carried from day. They may not be carried from class to class throughout the day. class to class throughout the day. They will be stored in small lockers at They will be stored in small lockers at school.school.

No rolling book bags. No white-No rolling book bags. No white-out. No School Boxes.out. No School Boxes.

Cell Phone Policy:Cell Phone Policy:

Students are not allowed to use cell Students are not allowed to use cell phones during school. If a student phones during school. If a student has a cell phone at school, it should has a cell phone at school, it should be turned off and stored in their be turned off and stored in their locker. Punishment for Violation of locker. Punishment for Violation of the cell phone policy is in the the cell phone policy is in the agenda. agenda. 

Dress Code Violation:Dress Code Violation:

• Students will call home for more Students will call home for more clothes to be brought to school. clothes to be brought to school.

• They may return to class after they They may return to class after they change their clothes.change their clothes.

Lunch and BreakfastLunch and Breakfast

• Breakfast is served from 7:15 – 7:40Breakfast is served from 7:15 – 7:40

Regular $1.50Regular $1.50 Reduced $0.30 Visitor Reduced $0.30 Visitor $2.00$2.00

• Lunch Lunch

Regular $2.25 Regular $2.25 Reduced $0.40Reduced $0.40 Visitor $3.50Visitor $3.50

• To receive free/reduced meals a new To receive free/reduced meals a new application must be filled out each year. application must be filled out each year. (one per family)(one per family)

SOAR Celebrations -TBASOAR Celebrations -TBA

1. 1.

2.2.

3.3.

4.4.

Report Cards Issued: Report Cards Issued:

October 19, 2012October 19, 2012

January 11, 2013January 11, 2013

March 15, 2013March 15, 2013

May 23, 2013May 23, 2013

  

SCHOOL CALENDAR 2011-SCHOOL CALENDAR 2011-20122012• August August 1414 Open House Open House

• August 20August 20 Classes BeginClasses Begin• September September 33 Labor Day HolidayLabor Day Holiday• October 22October 22 Report Card DayReport Card Day• November 12November 12 Veterans DayVeterans Day• November 22 - 23November 22 - 23 Thanksgiving Thanksgiving • December 24 - January 7December 24 - January 7 Christmas HolidaysChristmas Holidays• January 8January 8 Classes ResumeClasses Resume• January 11January 11 End of first semesterEnd of first semester• January 21 January 21 Lee/King HolidayLee/King Holiday• March March 2525 - 29 - 29 Spring BreakSpring Break• May 23May 23 Last Day for StudentsLast Day for Students• May 24May 24 Teacher Workday/Graduation Teacher Workday/Graduation

Southside Middle School: 283-2151Southside Middle School: 283-2151Listen for options/Leave a messageListen for options/Leave a messageMrs. Smith: Math/ScienceMrs. Smith: Math/ScienceMr. Eckstein: Language Arts/Social StudiesMr. Eckstein: Language Arts/Social StudiesMr. Thompson: PrincipalMr. Thompson: PrincipalMr. Dean: Vice-PrincipalMr. Dean: Vice-PrincipalMrs. Cox: CounselorMrs. Cox: CounselorMrs. Stokes: NurseMrs. Stokes: NurseMrs. Johnson: SecretaryMrs. Johnson: SecretaryMrs. Cobb: LunchroomMrs. Cobb: LunchroomMrs. Parker: LibrarianMrs. Parker: Librarian

Attendance:Attendance:

In order for students to benefit from In order for students to benefit from instruction, it is necessary for them instruction, it is necessary for them to attend school regularly. A to attend school regularly. A student’s absence affects his/her student’s absence affects his/her learning experience. Parents are learning experience. Parents are encouraged to see that their children encouraged to see that their children attend school unless prohibited attend school unless prohibited because of extreme emergency or because of extreme emergency or illness.illness.

We are looking forward to another great We are looking forward to another great year!year!

Mrs. Smith and Mr. EcksteinMrs. Smith and Mr. Eckstein