Principal’s message
Welcome to a new school year! The Monelison staff and I look forward to working with you throughout 2007-2008. To prepare for success, we ask that students and parents/guardians carefully read all of the information in this section of the school planner. Please also use it to organize assignments, activities, and home/school communications. With focus and determination, we will achieve excellence, one student at a time.
Mission Statement
The mission of Monelison Middle School is to provide an appropriate education in a caring atmosphere that challenges all individuals to be the best they can be.
VISION STATEMENT
Monelison Middle School is a model middle school where standards of excellence and a positive approach to learning challenge all students to succeed.
BELIEF STATEMENTS
We believe that Monelison Middle School should…
…help all students to see the value of learning.
…serve as a bridge from elementary to high school by providing an atmosphere that challenges each individual to reach his or her highest potential.
…provide a wide range of diverse experiences to meet the intellectual, emotional, social, aesthetic, and physical needs of each student.
…provide students an opportunity to achieve success.
…foster positive student self-esteem and self concept.
…provide students with a solid background in basic skills.
…help students develop the ability to accept and cope with change.
…instill a willingness to be responsible for oneself and to respect the rights of others at home, at school, and in the community.
…encourage students to participate as responsible and productive citizens.
…invite participation by members of the community.
TOGETHER EVERYONE
ACHIEVES MORE!
Student services
ACTIVITIES
School rules and regulations are in effect for all activities, including assemblies and field trips. Students must attend school on the day of an activity in order to participate. Exceptions may be granted, in cases such as medical appointments, with an administrator’s approval. Students who have violated school or team regulations or who have not completed their school work may be restricted from activities.
AFTER SCHOOL PROCEDURES
The following procedures have been developed to ensure the safety and well-being of all Monelison students. Everyone’s cooperation and support in implementing these procedures is appreciated.
1. Students may not remain after school for games or other events unless the event begins immediately after dismissal. Students must go home as usual and return at the appropriate time.
2. Students may not be inside the school building after school hours unless they are directly supervised by school personnel.
3. Students will not be supervised after school unless they are attending or participating in a school-sponsored activity. Parents are requested to pick up their child on time from such activities as they cannot be left unsupervised. Pick up times will be announced in advance. Students who are frequently late may be restricted from participation in after school events.
4. Students may not stay after school to use school facilities.
5. Students may not attend after school practices as spectators unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
6. Students with poor discipline records will not be permitted to attend after school activities.
AMHERST COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL
Middle school students are encouraged to attend sporting events at the Amherst County High School. Students are required to be accompanied by a parent or by a sibling who is enrolled at Amherst County High School.
ASSEMBLIES
Assemblies will be scheduled throughout the year. Teachers will accompany their classes to the gymnasium or cafeteria and sit with their classes. Students must sit with their classes in assigned sections at the assemblies. Appropriate student conduct is always required. Students with poor discipline records may not be admitted.
ATHLETICS
The following expectations have been established for students who participate in athletic programs at Monelison. These expectations will be used as guidelines for students in order that they have a successful academic and athletic experience. Through participation in sports at Monelison, students will learn self-discipline and skills that will benefit them in their school and personal life.
1. Academic work comes before any athletic contests or practice. Teachers will be given a roster of each team, so that they may have better communication with the coaches about each student’s progress. Coaches will check report cards during each grading period.
2. Athletes represent the entire student body, and they must be on their best behavior at all times.
3. Classroom behavior problems involving an athlete will be dealt with on an individual basis and may involve the coach and the teacher.
4. Athletes must be in attendance for at least half of the school day in order to participate in an athletic event. Athletes are expected to be on time to all games and practices.
5. Coaches expect teamwork and team effort at all times from each student participating in our athletic programs.
6. Athletes are expected to exhibit good sportsmanship at all times during practices and games.
7. Students will receive an Athletic handbook that details the expectations of the school.
In order to be successful at Monelison Middle School, it is very important to attend school. School is a place to learn, get to know people, develop friendships, and have fun. State law also requires students to attend school on a regular basis. There are five acceptable excuses for being absent:
1. Illness
2. Serious illness or death in the family
3. Subpoenaed court appearances
4. Medical or dental appointments
5. Religious holidays
When absent:
1. The parent may call the school to notify the office of the absence.
2. The student must bring a written excuse signed by his/her parent (or the doctor) to homeroom the day following the absence. Students are expected to bring the written excuse from their parents within three days of returning to school. Written documentation is required even if the school has been called or the school has called home.
Students are responsible for making up missed work. Parents who wish to get assignments must call by 8:00 am in order to pick up assignments in the afternoon. Call-ins for assignments are only recommended for multiple days of absence.
BOOKSTORE
The bookstore is located in the main office and offers students the opportunity to purchase some basic school supplies. Prices for supplies are posted in homerooms.
BULLYING
In general, bullying involves using power over another, hurting someone repeatedly, or being mean on purpose. Bullying can be physical, such as hitting, pushing, or tripping, taking items or damaging belonging. It can also be verbal through teasing, taunting, criticizing, spreading rumors, or using racial or ethnic slurs; and it can include nonverbal or relational bullying through nasty looks, ignoring a person, or trying to harm a person’s friendship. Cyberbullying by means of various uses of the Internet is another form of bullying. Acts of bullying are not tolerated at Monelison and students who bully are subject to disciplinary action. Students are asked to report bullying to teachers, administrators, the School Resource Officer, or other school staff if they see or experience bullying. Everyone deserves to feel safe in order to learn and students are a necessary element in keeping Monelison Middle School a safe place to learn. Teachers, administrators, staff, parents and students are all part of the solution. (adapted from “Creating a Bullying-Free School;” Channing Bete, Inc.)
CAFETERIA
Students are expected to enter and exit the cafeteria in an orderly manner. Students enjoying meals prepared by our cafeteria are asked to wait in the service line in single file. At the lunch table, proper table manners are expected. Parents are encouraged to visit and have lunch with their child. For security purposes, parents will sign in at the office and provide food for themselves and their child only. Parents may not provide food for other children.
CAMPUS CLEANLINESS
The appearance of the school depends greatly on the student body.
1. Littering - Students are encouraged to set a good example and keep the school free from trash.
2. Vandalism - Any students involved in destroying or defacing school property will be subject to suspension and be responsible for the replacement or repair cost of the property abused.
3. Restrooms –Students should put all trash in its proper place and flush toilets after using. Careful attention should be given to avoid clogging drains, and the office should be notified immediately regarding any problems in the bathrooms.
4. Eating Lunch – Students should make a special effort to avoid spilling food or milk. Leftover food and trash should be placed in the proper containers.
5. Gym - Lockers must be kept clean. Students will clear the locker room of all belongings not locked in lockers at the end of each class period.
6. No posters are to be placed in the school without prior permission. Posters will only be placed on tile surfaces or on bulletin boards.
CAR RIDERS
Car riders are to be dropped off and picked up in the front of the building. The right hand lane beside the sidewalk is the drop off and pick up area. Students are not to get into cars that are in the center lane. Drivers should pull into the right hand lane as far forward as possible and then have students exit onto the sidewalk. Students may exit anywhere along the sidewalk and are not limited to the area by the school doors. To avoid students being counted tardy, drop-off times are from 7:00 to 7:35 AM.
CELLULAR PHONES
For safety and academic reasons, students are not permitted to possess CELLULAR PHONES and other electronic communication devices while on school grounds. Use of a cellular phone without permission from a school authority will result in disciplinary action which may include in-school or out-of-school suspension. Cellular phone use includes having the cell phone turned on and/or ringing, text messages, and viewing/taking photographs.
CHARACTER COUNTS PROGRAM
In 2000, the Virginia legislature voted to require all schools to implement a Character Education Program in each school. Amherst County, as well as many other school divisions, has chosen to utilize the Character Counts program that is provided in conjunction with the 4-H club. This program is based upon six “Pillars of Character.” These are Responsibility, Citizenship, Respect, Trustworthiness, Fairness, and Caring. Throughout the year, activities in the classrooms and around the school will help students understand and live by these ideals. We also encourage parents to support these very positive traits in their children and to reinforce these ideals.
CLINIC
A clinic, supervised by Mrs. Peggy Friend, Registered Nurse, is located in the hall next to the Guidance Office. If a student gets sick when the nurse is not there, he/she should report to the secretary in the main office. A schedule of hours when the nurse is available will be posted on the clinic door. The student needs verbal permission and a pass from his/her teacher prior to reporting to the office or clinic.
DANCES
Student participation in dances and other activities is a privilege. Students with Out of School Suspension, two or more days of In-School Suspension, one or more bus suspensions, or a combination of bus and In-School suspension since the last dance are not permitted to attend an upcoming dance.
DISTRIBUTION OF OUTSIDE COMMUNICATIONS IN THE SCHOOL
Notices announcing events or relating to non-school sponsored organizations must have the superintendent’s approval before they will be allowed to be distributed in the school.
DRESS GUIDELINES
Students are expected to be neat and well-groomed. Attire should be suitable for school. Clothing that may be offensive to some or otherwise disruptive to the educational environment is not permitted. The following guidelines will be adhered to:
1. Hats, scarves, sweat bands, bandanas, and other head-gear are not to be worn in the building. Hats are to be stored in students’ lockers during the day.
2. No halter tops, cut off shirts, or see-through shirts are to be worn. All shirts and blouses must cover the midriff area and have shoulder straps that are at least two inches wide. Shirts and blouses cannot have large armholes or be cut too low in the front. No cleavage is to show.
3. No excessively torn clothing is allowed. Extremely short or tight shorts, skirts, or dresses are not allowed. Shorts, dresses, or skirts should be no more than four inches above the knee cap.
4. Clothing with offensive or inappropriate language, slogans, symbols, and/or pictures is not permitted.
5. Clothing which advertises tobacco, alcohol, or other illegal substances is not permitted.
6. Clothing that can imply gang membership is not permitted. Bandanas are not permitted. Pants are not to be rolled up. Chains and spiked jewelry are also not permitted.
7. Sunglasses are not to be worn in the building and may not be worn around the neck or on top of the head.
8. ‘Low Rider’ pants are not permitted. Baggy pants are permitted as long as the pants are not worn ‘low ride style, and as long as a belt is worn with the pants. Bib overalls must have at least one strap buttoned. The waist band of pants is to be positioned on the body at the person’s hips or higher. All undergarments must be covered.
9. Shirt, Sweatshirt and sweater length shall not extend beyond the second knuckle of student’s index finger along his/her leg when standing.
10. Pajamas, “lounge pants,” and other clothing related to night-time wear are not to be worn to or in school.
Students are requested to use good judgment in selecting all clothing to be worn to school. Other items of clothing, which are inappropriate for school, will be dealt with on an individual basis. If there is any question about an item of clothing, students are asked to please check with an administrator before wearing the item.
EARLY PICK-UP
Students will not be permitted to leave school early unless they are in the company of a school employee, parent, guardian, or verified representative of the parent or guardian. Representatives are to be verified by the principal or her designee. Parents are requested to send a note on days when they will pick a child up early.
When one parent provides evidence of sole legal custody granted by the court and has requested that the student not be permitted to leave with the other parent, this request will be honored.
When students are picked up from school early, instruction time is interrupted for them and for others. Please make every effort to allow students to remain in class until 2:45 PM.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
During the first few weeks of school, fire drills will be conducted each week. After this, they will be conducted on a monthly basis until the end of the school year. It is important that students follow all of the fire drill procedures that are posted in each room and exit the building properly. During the year, tornado and other drills will also be conducted. Students are asked to notify teachers if they recognize or suspect possible emergency situations.
FIELD TRIPS
Student field trips will be taken as a learning experience and an incentive to students. All students will be encouraged to attend. Certain guidelines must be met in order to be eligible to participate in the field trips. Parents /guardians will be asked to help chaperone these trips. Other relatives (aunts, uncles, grandparents, etc.) will not be allowed to attend.
1. All work in classes must be completed.
2. Academic performance and behavior will be considered when determining if students are eligible to participate in a field trip. In-school and out-of-school suspensions decrease a student’s likelihood of attendance or participation on a field trip.
3. Students who are absent excessively (more than 5 times in the current 9 weeks) are not eligible to attend unless the illness is documented by a doctor’s excuse.
4. Team requirements for any trip must be approved by an administrator and sent home to the parents of the students at the beginning of the trip time frame. Parents are to be notified if a student is in danger of losing his/her trip privilege due to not meeting the team requirement.
5. If a student makes him or herself ineligible for a trip during or after a fundraising event (example-a candy sale), funds generated will be absorbed by the school for student use.
6. For student safety, parents who chaperone field trips are required by the Amherst County School Board to be finger printed and to undergo background checks.
FOOD AND DRINK
All food and drink brought from home will be kept in students’ lockers and not consumed outside of the cafeteria. Items will be placed in students’ lockers before homeroom and removed on the way to the cafeteria.
GANGS
Students may be subject to disciplinary action for participating in gang activity. A gang is defined as any group of two or more persons whose purpose includes:
· Creation of an atmosphere of fear and intimidation
· Commission of illegal acts
· Participation in activities that threaten the safety of persons or property
· Disruption of school activities
· Wearing, using, distributing, or selling clothing, jewelry, emblem, badge, symbol, sign, or other things that are evidence of membership or affiliation with any gang;
· Committing any act or omission, or using any speech, either verbal or non-verbal (such as gestures or handshakes) showing membership or affiliation in a gang;
· Using any speech or committing any act or omission in furtherance of the interest of any gang, including: (a) soliciting, hazing and initiating others for membership in any gang, (b) requesting any person to pay protection or otherwise intimidating or threatening any person, (c) committing any other illegal act or other violation of school policy, and (d) inciting other students to act with physical violence;
Gang activity is defined as:
Inappropriate congregating, bullying, harassment, intimidation, degradation, disgrace and/or related activities which are likely to cause bodily danger, physical harm, or mental harm to students, employees, or visitors.
GRADING
1. Teachers will take an active role in creating circumstances that ensure the completion of all assignments.
2. Students who have not completed assignments will be given a one-week period of time from the due date of the assignment for making up work. Should this period extend beyond the end of the grading period, an “I” (Incomplete) will be given. Exceptions may be granted in the case of extended illnesses.
3. Work not completed within the extension will receive a grade of F (0). Work not attempted or turned in will receive a grade of F (0).
4. Grades in all subjects will be on a 9 week grading period except the sixth and seventh grade exploratory classes which will be on a six weeks basis. The exploratory grades will appear on the regular report cards.
5. Standards of Learning End Of Course (World History and Algebra I) tests will not be included in the course grades.
6. Interim reports will be sent home at the mid-point of each of the nine week grading periods. Parent teacher conferences will be held at that time.
7. Student performance in all subjects will be evaluated using the scale of letter grades and achievement levels established in School Board policy. At present that scale is as follows.
Grade Value
A+ 98-100
A 95-97
A- 92-94
B+ 89-91
B 86-88
B- 83-85
C+ 80-82
C 77-79
C- 74-76
D+ 71-73
D 68-70
D- 65-67
F 64 - 0
6. Evaluation should also indicate effort and instructional levels separately from graded assignments. The following scale will be used to reflect student effort in all courses and instructional levels in reading and mathematics.
EFFORT
4 -- Outstanding Effort
3 -- Acceptable Effort
2 -- Inconsistent Effort
1 -- Unacceptable Effort
INSTRUCTIONAL LEVEL
5 – On or Above Grade Level
6 – Below Grade Level
GUIDANCE
The Guidance Department at Monelison Middle School is accessible to everyone. Counselors are available to help students with such topics as personal problems, school problems, academic counseling, and career choices. Students needing to talk to a counselor are asked to stop by the Guidance Office and make an appointment. It is necessary for a student to get a pass from a teacher in order to come to the Guidance Office.
HOMEWORK
Students are expected to spend approximately ninety minutes on homework on a nightly basis. Students are expected to take time for nightly review of notebook or textbook information, in addition to reading and completing written homework. At least 15 minutes of study in each of 3 notebooks or textbooks each night will help maintain and increase students’ understanding of the material being learned. Homework may count up to 10% of a student’s nine-week grade according to School Board policy.
INCENTIVE PROGRAM
“Excellence Starts With Me”
1. Honor Roll
At the end of each nine weeks grading period, students who have maintained a 3.0 G.P.A. and no grade lower than a ‘C,’ will receive recognition on the Honor Roll list. Students will receive an Honor Roll sticker on their report cards, and the parents of students who make the Honor Roll at least once will be given a sticker entitled, “Proud Parent of an Honor Student at Monelison Middle School.“ Students who make Honor Roll each nine weeks will receive special recognition at the end of the year awards assembly (Honor Roll for the year).
2. “Golden M Award”
This award is presented to any 8th grade student who:
a. has maintained a 3.50 G.P.A. in sixth and seventh grade plus through the first three nine weeks of the eighth grade,
b. is enrolled in Algebra I and a foreign language,
c. and has not earned a semester grade of D or lower.
3. “Golden A Award” (GIVEN IN THE FALL)
To qualify for Golden recognition, the student must:
a. Have a 3.70 G.P.A. and pass all SOL tests.
OR
b. Eighth grade:
Math, English, History, Science and Writing
Standards of Learning Test must be passed
with at least 3 at the Pass/Advanced level.
4. “President’s Educational Excellence Awards”
This award will be awarded to all eighth grade students who have:
(a) scored Pass/Advanced on the Reading 7 or Math 7 SOL Test, and
(b) maintained an overall average of A- (3.5 GPA) for the sixth and seventh grades and for the first semester of the eighth grade.
5. Attendance Award
Awards will be presented to those students who have missed four or fewer days in a school year.
6. Student of the Week
Each Monday, teams recognize students who have demonstrated positive character traits in various settings in the school. For showing trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, citizenship, and/or caring in various ways, students receive certificates and tokens and are recognized on the café’ slideshow.
7. Community Service Awards
Students who provide at least 40 hours of documented community service to a non-profit agency during the year are recognized with a certificate and pin at the end of the year.
8. Sports Awards
Awards will be presented to those students who are selected for special recognition, such as “Most Valuable Player,” “Most Improved Player,” or “Top Scorer.” Certificates will be given to those students who excel in the Presidential Physical Fitness Program.
9. Other Incentives
Teaching teams will be providing many incentives for their students throughout the year. Certificates, awards, pizza parties, team assemblies, field trips, ice cream socials, and other incentives will be utilized to motivate and reward students.
LIBRARY PROCEDURES AND REGULATIONS FOR STUDENTS
1. The school library opens at 7:45 A.M. and closes at 2:45 P.M.
2. All books must be checked out before they are taken from the library.
3. Except for reserve books and reference books, library books are loaned for two weeks.
4. The person to whom the book is checked out is responsible for the book.
5. Library books will be returned to the circulation desk or in the green book box in the hallway.
6. Overdue fines are not charged at this time. A responsible effort in returning books on time will keep this policy in place.
7. Repair costs are charged for damaged books. Replacement costs are charged for lost books.
8. Magazines and newspapers are not to be taken from the library.
9. Encyclopedias, newspapers, and magazines should be returned to their proper place before leaving the library. Newspapers should be refolded.
10. Students are expected to return library furniture to its proper place if moved. Trash is to be placed in a trash can. Feet are not to be placed on library furniture.
11. Students using the library during school hours must have a pass that should be put in the pass box on the circulation desk. Students with passes are to sit at a table alone to read or work without distraction.
12. Students are expected to be quiet and orderly in the library. This includes entering and leaving.
13. Students are not to eat in the library.
14. Students may check out two books for two weeks, but may return these books to get new ones any time during the two weeks. However, students with an overdue book may not check out a second book.
15. Students are expected to follow the guidelines for the Internet connection in the library. Students found breaking these rules will lose the use of the Internet and will be subject to disciplinary action.
LOCKERS
Student lockers, in the halls and in the locker rooms, are school property and remain at all times under the control of the school. Students are expected to assume full responsibility for the security of their lockers. Periodic general inspections of lockers may be conducted by school authorities for any reason, at any time, without notice, without student consent, and without search warrants.
Students are provided lockers in both the halls and in the gym locker rooms. Hall lockers will have a combination lock. Students must provide their own combination lock for their gym lockers. Valuables should be kept with the student or secured in a locker. If a locker does not work properly, the student is to report this fact to the office. Kicking or hitting a locker will only result in more expensive damage to the lock or door. Offenders will be held responsible. Students are advised not to put books or other belongings in someone else’s locker. Additionally, students should not give their locker combination to other students. Lockers are to be kept locked at all times.
LOST AND FOUND
Students should bring any articles of clothing, books, etc. that are found to the office. Students may check daily in the office for lost articles. Clothing not claimed will be donated to a local charity or group.
LUNCH
The following schedule will be followed for reporting to lunch: First lunch - sixth grade, Second lunch - seventh grade, Third lunch - eighth grade. These rules should be followed during lunch:
1. Teachers will take their classes in an orderly manner to the cafeteria.
2. Breaking in line, allowing others to pass in front, pushing and shoving will not be permitted.
4. Students may not leave the cafeteria during lunch without permission.
5. Students are to leave their places at the tables clean and free from trash and bits of food.
6. Students are to empty trays into the trash cans and stack their trays on the counter once they have finished eating.
7. The center table is designated as the teachers’ table. (Students may be assigned there for disciplinary reasons).
8. Students who wish to purchase their lunches in advance may do so on a weekly basis. Ticket sales will be available to all students between 7:15 AM and 10:00 A.M. Students will be given account numbers to use to get their lunches. Students on free or reduced lunch will also receive account numbers. Improper use of these numbers will result in disciplinary action.
9. All food, including ice cream, must be eaten in the cafeteria.
MEDICATION
1. Prescription Medications:
In accordance with School Board policy JHCD, “Amherst County Public School personnel may give prescription medication to students only with a physician’s written order and written permission from the student’s parent or guardian. Such medicine must be in the original container and delivered to the principal, school nurse, or school division designee by the parent/guardian of the student.”
2. Nonprescription Medications:
In accordance with School Board policy JHCD, “Amherst County Public School personnel may give nonprescription medication to students only with written permission from the parent or guardian. Such permission shall include the name of the medication, the required dosage of the medication, and the time the medication is to be given. Such medication must be in the original container and delivered to the principal, school nurse, or school division designee by the parent/guardian of the student”.
3. Self-Administration of Medication:
In accordance with School Board policy JHCD, “Self-administration of any medication with the exception of asthma medication as discussed below, is prohibited for students in grades kindergarten through eight.”
“Students with a diagnosis of asthma are permitted to possess and self-administer inhaled asthma medications in accordance with this policy during the school day, at school sponsored activities, or while on a school bus or other school property. In order for a student to possess and self-administer asthma medication, the following conditions must be met:
-written parental consent that the student may self-administer inhaled asthma medications must be on file with the school;
-written notice from the student’s primary care provider must be on file with the school, indicating the identity of the student, stating the diagnosis of asthma and approving self-administration of inhaled asthma medications that have been prescribed for the student; specifying the name and dosage of the medication, the frequency in which it is to be administered and the circumstances which may warrant its use; and attesting to the student’s demonstrated ability to safely and effectively self-administer the medication;
-an individualized health care plan must be prepared, including emergency procedures for any life-threatening conditions; and
-information regarding the health condition of the student must be disclosed to school board employees in accordance with state and federal law governing the disclosure of information contained in student scholastic records.”
“Permission granted to a student to possess and self-administer asthma medications will be effective for a period of one school year, and must be renewed annually. However, a student’s right to possess and self-administer inhaled asthma medication may be limited or revoked after appropriate school personnel consult with the student’ parents.”
PERFUMES AND DEODORANTS
Hygiene items are to be applied at home or in the physical education locker rooms. Stick or roll-on deodorants are to be used. Applying perfumes in areas such as school buses, restrooms, and classrooms is not permitted as it poses a health risk to those with respiratory complications. Aerosol cans are not permitted at school.
PROMOTION/RETENTION POLICY
In accordance with Amherst County School Board policy ILA, “The Standards of Learning test results shall be used as part of a multiple set of criteria for determining promoting or retaining students in grades 3, 5, and 8.”
Amherst County Public Schools regulation ILA-R states:
“The principal will be responsible for establishing a procedure for making decisions regarding the promotion and retention of students. In addition, the principal will ensure that appropriate lines of communication are established with the parent or guardian early in the school year regarding these matters. The following criteria will be used when determining promotion and retention.
Middle School
1. A student who passes all four SOL core content courses – English, math, science, and history – will be promoted.
2. A student who fails one of the four SOL core content courses must participate in SOL remediation.
3. A student who fails two or more of the four SOL core content courses will NOT be promoted.
4. Other factors will be considered in the promotion or retention of students in grades six, seven, and eight which include, but are not limited to the following:
a. Standards of Learning test results
b. Grades
c. Academic progress
d. Attendance
e. Age
f. Previous academic record
g. Previous retentions
h. Other factors specific to the student
Note: Students who are not promoted will be referred to a school-level promotion/retention committee to determine placement for the following year.”
PUPIL PASSES
Every student is expected to be in a specific class or activity during the day. If for some reason it is necessary to be in another area other than the assigned place, then the student must obtain a pass from his/ her teacher or the office. The hall pass sections in this planner will be used for most situations.
REPORT CARDS AND INTERIM REPORTS
Report cards will be prepared and issued to students six school days after the end of each nine-week grading period. Interim reports will be distributed to all students at the mid-point of the nine-weeks. Parent /teacher conferences will be held after the interim reports are sent home. Following receipt of interim reports or the report card, the report envelope is to be signed by the parent and returned to the student’s homeroom teacher within three days.
SCHOOL AUTHORITY
Students are under the jurisdiction of the Amherst County School Board and its agents from the time they leave home for school until they return. Students that attend athletic events at any school are subject to disciplinary action for any misbehavior or infraction of the school’s rules. Students found guilty of unlawful acts may be subject to disciplinary action by the Amherst County School Board even if this act did not occur on school property. Reports of unlawful acts will be sent from the Amherst County Courts to the School Board for certain offenses.
SEARCHES
In accordance with School Board Policy, to maintain order and discipline in the schools and to protect the safety and welfare of students and school personnel, school authorities may search a student’s personal effects, student lockers, or student automobiles, and may seize any illegal, unauthorized, or contraband materials discovered in the search. A student’s failure to permit such searches and seizures as provided in this policy will be considered grounds for disciplinary action.
STUDENT COUNCIL ASSOCIATION (SCA)
All students are eligible to participate in the S.C.A. Officers and representatives will be elected from each grade level. Special activities will be planned by the S.C.A. Student participation in this organization will help to make Monelison a great school for everyone who attends. The President, Vice President, and Secretary are elected by sixth and seventh graders each spring. The Treasurer, Reporter, and Homeroom Representatives are elected by all grades in the fall.
STUDENT RECORDS
Parents of students or eligible students may inspect and review the student’s educational records upon request.
Parents or eligible students should submit to the student’s school principal a written request which identifies, as precisely as possible, the record or records he or she wishes to inspect.
The principal (or appropriate school official) will make the needed arrangements for access as promptly as possible and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be viewed. Access must be given in 14 days or less from the receipt of the request.
When a record contains information about students other than a parent’s child or the eligible student, the parent or eligible student may not inspect and review the portion of the record that pertains to other students. (School Board Policy JO)
TEAMS
Monelison Middle School is organized into teams. This is done to make school easier and more enjoyable for everyone. It also helps students and parents to get to know teachers, and it helps teachers to better serve students and their families. Every student at Monelison is on a team. Teams work together to solve problems so that students will be able to learn. Students participate in special activities with the teachers and students on their teams. Every student is an important member of his or her team; and cooperation, support, and enthusiasm help to make teams great!
TELEPHONE CALLS
Students are discouraged from making phone calls during the school day. Families are asked to take time to organize their schedules before children leave for school each day. In cases of illness or emergencies, a student may get a pass from his or her teacher to go to the office to request use of the office telephone. Only in cases of an emergency will students be called from class to accept incoming calls.
TEXTBOOK POLICIES
Policies governing textbook rental are as follows:
1. Textbooks are provided to all students free of charge. Students will be held accountable for their books.
2. Damage Fee – Each book issued to a student will be graded as new, good, fair, or poor and this will be noted on the textbook loan sheet. Books turned in by the student will be appraised and if the text is returned two or more grades lower in condition, students will be charged accordingly. The average life of a book should be four years.
3. The replacement fee for lost books will be the price of the book for new books and half price for used ones. All textbooks are numbered. The administration will use the textbook number to identify the student to whom it was issued. Each student should be sure to write his or her name in the appropriate place in the textbook to prevent having to pay for lost books.
4. No heavy pencil marks or any ink marks are to be made in the textbooks. Reasonable care will normally result in a textbook being reduced one grade with each year of use. Throwing a book, allowing it to get wet, or other abuse will not be considered reasonable care and will result in a damage fee.
5. Students are asked to take good care of textbooks and to repair tears. As a result, the books will last much longer and result in cost savings for the school.
VISITORS AT SCHOOL
Schools in the division welcome visits by school patrons and other persons. In order to protect students, staff, and property, visitors during the school day must first report to the principal’s office for authorization to be in the building or on the grounds. All visitors must sign in at the front desk and receive a bar coded visitor tag before going anywhere else in the building. Visitors will then check out in the office using the same bar coded visitor tag.
B. Trespassing
No student or other person will be in the school building or on the school premises after school hours unless he or she is on official school business, is participating in a supervised school activity, is authorized by the administration, or is a spectator at an activity open to the public. Unauthorized persons loitering on school property will be treated as trespassers.
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM (MVP)
Parents and other community members are encouraged to volunteer to help in the schools. Helping to tutor students, working in the library, setting up activities for the students, and helping coordinate special projects such as Career Day, College Day, and Picture Day are only a few of the opportunities that are available.
If you or someone you know is interested in volunteering, please contact Mrs. Robbie Shaner at 846-1307.
Monelison Middle School
CONDUCT AND DISCIPLINE
Rules and regulations are necessary to assure self-control and to protect the rights of all teachers to teach and of all students to learn without disturbance. It is impossible to write an "all inclusive" policy. Therefore, these guidelines are subject to modifications as circumstances, evidence, and discretion dictate.
I. Restricted Substances.
A student will not possess, distribute, purchase or consume any illegal, restricted or unknown substances. This includes what the student represents to be an illegal or restricted substance. Restricted substances would include, but not be limited to the following: alcoholic drinks, marijuana, narcotic drugs, hallucinogens, stimulants, depressants, abusable glue, paint and similar materials, and both prescription* and non-prescription drugs*.
Any student engaging in these activities will be subject to the following penalties:
A. Alcohol or any alcoholic beverage.
Student may be suspended up to 10 days; subsequent offenses may result in suspension for the remainder of the year.
B. Any controlled substance or dangerous drug (i.e. narcotics, marijuana).
Student may be suspended up to 365 days from school and will be charged through the legal system.
C. Any abusable glue or aerosol paint or any other chemical substance, including, but not limited to, lighter fluid or other fluids for inhalation.
Student may be suspended for the remainder of the year.
D. Any prescription or non-prescription drug, medicine, vitamin, or other chemical including, but not limited to the following: aspirin, stimulants, diet pills, cough medicines, or sleeping pills.
Student may be suspended for up to10 days. Distribution of any of these may result in suspension for up to 365 days from school.
*Any student whose parent or guardian requests that he or she be allowed to take any prescription or non-prescription medicine will bring such request in writing to the principal. The physician's order stating the type of medication dosage and duration of treatment must be included. All medication will be kept in the school office. (See “Medicines” section.)
II. Unlawful Acts.
Unlawful acts that may lead to police notification and may result in suspension from school, exclusions from school or expulsion include, but are not limited to the following:
A. Possession or use of firearms, knives, or other dangerous weapons. This includes any facsimile such as cap pistols, toy guns, or water pistols.
B. Assaulting any school personnel or student
C. Bomb threats
D. False alarms
E. Sexual assault
F. Stealing
G. Gambling
H. Interference with or intimidation of school authorities
I. Possession or use of explosives (including stink bombs, caps, fireworks, or noisemakers)
J. Threatening to kill a student or staff member or to bring a weapon to school.
III. Serious Acts.
Actions that may be cause for corrective action and if serious enough may result in exclusion from activities, in-school suspension, or suspension from school, include and are not limited to the following:
A. Profanity or abusive language
B. Threatening or verbal abuse; bullying
C. Disobedience or defiance
D. Refusal to identify self to school personnel
E. Defacing or destroying school property
F. Inappropriate dress or appearance
G. Sexual harassment
H. Lying
I. Endangering other students
J. Cheating
K. Repeatedly skipping class or school
L. Forgery
M. Continuous or repeated class disruptions
N. Organizing, promoting, or engaging in group disturbances
O. Possession of drug-related items
P. “Gleeking” (spitting) on another student
Q. Shoving, pushing, tripping or slapping
R. Spreading negative information about others
IV. Tobacco Substances.
Possession or use of any tobacco substance by students at school is prohibited. (This includes school grounds, buses, and on any school-sponsored trip). Students found to have in their possession tobacco products, matches, lighters, etc. must give them to the school personnel requesting them. Students found smoking, chewing tobacco, in possession of tobacco products, or where evidence would indicate the intent to use any tobacco product will be subject to the following action:
1. 1st Offense: Overnight Suspension and 2 days of In-School Suspension
2. Subsequent offenses: Suspension from school and referral to legal authorities
V. Fighting.
Fighting is considered to be a serious and disruptive behavior. After examination of the evidence, circumstances and provocation, the following disciplinary options could be used:
1. 1st Offense: In-School Suspension or Suspension from school and referral to School Resource Officer
2. 2nd Offense: Suspension and possible legal action.
3. Repeated Offenses: Suspension with possible recommendation for expulsion.
VI. Tardy Policy.
Students who arrive after 7:45 A.M. are marked as tardy to school. Tardies will be monitored on a semester basis.
If tardy to homeroom, students will:
Report directly to the tardy table prior to 8:00 A.M or to the guidance office if after 8:00 A.M., sign in on the sign in sheet, and receive a pass to homeroom or class.
Students who are tardy may be subject to the following consequences:
First, Second, and Third tardies – Warning given.
Fourth Tardy - Time Out lunch
Fifth Tardy - Two days of Time Out lunch
Sixth Tardy- After school detention hall
Seventh Tardy- Overnight Suspension
Subsequent Tardies - One day of In School Suspension for each time tardy.
DISCIPLINE REMINDERS
The following is a list of student expectations at Monelison Middle School. Failure to follow these rules may result in disciplinary action.
STUDENT CONDUCT ON SCHOOL BUSES
The Amherst County School Board requires students to conduct themselves on the bus in a manner that will permit the safest possible transportation for all passengers. Illegal or improper behavior will be reported to the principal or assistant principal in writing by the bus driver. The principal or assistant will inform parents and request their assistance in correcting behavior. Students who continue to cause problems on the bus will have their riding privileges suspended. In such cases, parents are responsible for their safe transportation to and from school. Students are under the jurisdiction of the Amherst County School Board from the time they leave home for school until they return.
Misconduct by students at bus stops will be acted upon in the same manner as misconduct on buses.
SCHOOL BUS REGULATIONS
1. Students will remain seated. Students are not to change seats unless requested to do so by the driver.
2. Students will not fight or use obscene language.
3. Students will keep hands, arms, and belongings inside the bus.
4. Students will not eat, drink, smoke, or chew tobacco on the bus.
5. Students will not litter.
6. Vandals will pay for bus damage.
7. Students will be at loading places on time. This must be at the stop assigned by the Transportation Department.
8. Students must use the same loading and unloading places, unless they have a note from their parent co-signed by an administrator.
9. Students must cross the street 10 to 15 feet in front of the school bus.
10. Students may only ride the bus that they are assigned by the Division Superintendent or his duly authorized agent.
11. Students are not permitted to cross a dual highway when loading or unloading from a school bus.
12. Students will not obstruct the aisle or exits with any object.
13.Students are to follow the directions of the bus driver at all times.
II. These guidelines will not preclude the school administration from eliminating any of the steps in the process if, in their judgment, the misconduct by the student warrants more severe action.
Initial -The bus driver should try to resolve the problem or violation.
First Referral -For the first bus conduct referral, unless more severe action is warranted, a formal warning will be given and the parents notified.
Second Referral - For a second conduct referral or initial referral involving a serious violation, the student’s bus riding privileges will be suspended and parents notified.
Previously Suspended -If a student who has previously had bus riding privileges suspended receives another bus conduct referral, his or her bus riding privileges will be suspended and a parent conference will be required.
Severe or Continuing -The student's bus riding privileges will be suspended. An informal hearing with the Superintendent will be held to consider suspending the student's bus riding privileges for the remainder of the year.
*Other disciplinary measures could be used such as an assigned seat, overnight suspension, etc. when circumstances warrant.
III. Students who wish to ride another bus or get off at a different stop must present a written note from the parent to the office IN THE MORNING. A bus pass will then be issued by an administrator if the change is approved. Some buses may not be able to take additional passengers. Students will be notified about these buses.
DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS
When violations of school rules occur, students will be subject to the following major disciplinary options. This is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of the options available.
1. Time-Out:
Students may be assigned by the teacher or an administrator. The student will be sent to the time-out room to work on assignments for minor behavior problems in class or if they need to do make up work.
2. After-School Detention Hall:
Detention Hall will be held Tuesday and Thursday from 2:45P.M. until 3:30 P.M. Students may be assigned Detention Hall by a teacher or an administrator. Students assigned Detention Hall must report immediately after dismissal from class. Students must have their ride at the school promptly at 3:30. Students unable to stay for detention hall will be assigned time in the In-School Suspension program or other alternate form of punishment.
3 In-School Suspension:
Students will be assigned In-School Suspension by the Principal or Assistant Principal. Students must report immediately upon arrival at school, obey all rules and regulations, and complete all assignments. Time missed because of tardiness, appointments, etc. must be made up the next day.
4. Alternative Placement: Students may be placed in the STOP and/or New Directions Alternative program at Monroe for a period of time to be determined by the principal and the administrator at the New Directions program. Successful completion of this time will allow the student to return to Monelison.
5 Suspension:
Students may be suspended from school for up to ten (10) days. . Expulsions or suspensions for longer periods require action by the Superintendent and/or the School Board. While suspended, students are not allowed to be on Amherst County School property or to attend any activity at any school.
6 Other:
A. Conference with student and warning
B. Parent conference
C. Overnight Suspension (Students may not return to school unless accompanied by his/her parent.)
D. Exclusion from activities that take place during or after the regular school day.
ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY SIGNED BY PARENT
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HR TEACHER SIGNATURE
HALL PASS RECORD
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