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Windham Middle SchoolStudent Handbook
2007 - 2008 Grade 6: Don Shirley, Sonia Pierpont, Karin Rogers, Sue Guelli Craig Kingsley, Stephanie O'Shaughnessy, Kristine O'Neil, Nate Gage Grade Level Instructional Assistant - Karen Bergeron Grade 7: Martha Fava, Karen Merchant, Lisa Corbin, Andrew Bairstow, Nancy Fahey, Patsy Beaver, Lisa Reddig Grade Level Instructional Assistant – Linda Greco Grade 8: John Hayward, Joe Mancinelli, Michelle McCorkle, Leah Doughty, Michael Kirste, Shannon Graham, Marty Chaput Grade Level Instructional Assistant - Roe Gryniewicz General School: Gretchen Williams - Enrichment Instructional Assistant – Diane Figaro World Language: Pilar Ripley, Carl Boisvert, Sharon Hone Unified Arts: Rose Mercier - Art; Erin Shirley - PE; Mark Cherbonneau - PE, Jared Cassedy - Band, General Music; Sheila Cuneo - Chorus, General Music Special Education: Jill Hanlon, Megan Bairstow, Jennifer Bullis, Yvonne Bates, Deanne Whitehead Special Services Joyce Buschle - Speech Pathologist Judi Kelley- Occupational Therapist, Julie Morris - Physical Therapist Media Center Diana Greenleaf – Media Generalist Technology Gail Logan, Clayton Caddy Custodians Gary Carr, Dana LaTour, Bob Coole, Rick Gormley MONDAY – FRIDAY SCHEDULE
*UNIFIED ARTS PERIODS DELAYED OPENING SCHEDULE 9:10 – 9:15 HOMEROOM 9:15 START CLASSES REPORTING SYSTEMSReport Cards, Mid-Term Reports and Parent Conferences We use a variety of reporting methods in an effort to keep parents well informed as to their child's progress. Report Cards The school year is divided into four marking periods of approximately 45 school days. At the end of each marking period a report card is issued to each student and must be returned, signed by a parent or guardian. The first section of the report card deals with the academic subjects which all students are required to take. In grades 6 - 8, all students must take language arts, math, science, and social studies. Students in grades 7 and 8 may elect to take French, Spanish or Integrated Learning Skills (ILS). Within each academic area, each child is placed on one of three levels. On class level (2) indicates average ability in that particular subject area, above class level (1) indicates above average ability in a particular subject, while below class level (3) indicates below average ability. A student will receive one of the following grades in a major academic subject: A+ 100-99 C+ 79-78 A 98-92 C 77-72 A- 91-90 C- 71-70 B+ 89-88 D+ 69-68 B 87-82 D 67-65 B- 81-80 F 64 and below Along with the grade and level for each subject, teachers comment on conduct and effort during the quarter. General School Conduct is also listed separately and is referred to as "unstructured time." This means homeroom period, lunch, recess and behavior in the halls while passing for class. Unified Arts Unified Arts consists of Physical Education, Music Appreciation, Band, Chorus, Art and Health. All students are required to take Physical Education, Art and Health. Students are also required to take either Music Appreciation, Band or Chorus. Exploratory Foreign Language is an elective course for sixth grade students. The grading scale is identical to the grading scale for regular academic classes and is as follows: A+ 100-99 C+ 79-78 A 98-92 C 77-72 A- 91-90 C- 71-70 B+ 89-88 D+ 69-68 B 87-82 D 67-65 B- 81-80 F 64 and below Elective Classes Students who sign up for elective classes, which include Exploratory Foreign Language in grade 6, French, Spanish, and Integrated Learning Skills (ILS) in grades 7 and 8 are not allowed to drop these electives after the first marking period. Mid-Term Reports In addition to the report card, mid-term reports will be sent to parents four times a year at approximately the mid-point of each marking period. The purpose of the mid-term report is to provide a progress report of your child's effort and academic achievement up to that point. Every student receives a mid-term report and parents are asked to sign it and return it to school in a timely manner. Parent Conferences Parent Conferences are scheduled in November and again in April for the purpose of parents meeting with the homeroom teacher to discuss their child's progress in detail. This provides an excellent opportunity for parents to ask questions and make comments. Our experience has been that parent conferences are beneficial for parents, teachers and the child. Your participation is encouraged. Very often parents need to see a teacher or the team of teachers at various times during the school year. These meetings can take place by calling the school and scheduling an appointment. Teachers will also call parents or write a note at various times to inform parents of a problem or concern. Parents are encouraged to respond to these communications. A monthly school newsletter will be sent home at the beginning of each month outlining activities and events for the current month. This will also be posted on our school website. Our website has a wealth of information regarding scheduled activities, homework assignments, and upcoming events. The use of teacherweb allows parents access to more specific information and assignments from specific teachers. The school website will also have any necessary forms. PROMOTION/RETENTION REGULATIONS It is our belief that student should be promoted on the basis of academic success. In general, students shall be placed at the grade level to which they are best adjusted academically, socially, emotionally and developmentally. The educational program shall provide for the continuous progress of students from grade to grade. In grades 6,7 and 8, the decision for promotion shall be based on the overall student record of academic success. The achievement shall be based on the student's success in attaining the instructional goals in the class they are assigned. Basis for consideration of promotion shall be passing grades in three or more of the following: Language Arts, Reading, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies. Initial information regarding the possibility of retention shall be gathered by the teachers and submitted to the principal. The principal will meet with the teachers and contact parents if retention seems to be a reasonable possibility. If it is a possibility, the principal will advise the parents and the student by April 30. Parents will be asked to meet with the staff and the principal to discuss the issues. It is desirable that an agreement is reached by all parties and the decision be reached at this meeting. Failing to reach an agreement by June 15, the principal shall reach a decision and advise all parties concerned. In the event a parent wishes to appeal the final decision of the principal, a written appeal may be made to the Superintendent of Schools. The Superintendent of Schools will make a final decision on the appeal by July 15 and notify the parents and the principal. Parents and legal guardians have full access to records kept on their child. Persons other than parents or school personnel must have written permission from the parents or they must possess a subpoena. Homework is an essential part of school at this age level. Students should be clear as to what the assignment is, what is required, and when it is due. It is a good idea for students to write assignments in the assignment notebook that we provide to them and it is often helpful for parents to check on assignments. We urge parents to provide a place and a time for their children to do homework. Parental assistance and encouragement at home is very important. Homework assignments may also be checked by accessing the teachers' web site at www.teacherweb.com or through our school website. Home study is important, but keep in mind that free time for students is also important. Set aside a regular time to do work and don't let things go until the last minute. If you plan and use your time well, your work will be easier and you will do a better job. PowerSchool offers parents real-time access to grades, attendance and class information. You can e-mail teachers or ask for automatic updates on your student's progress and view the school bulleting. You must obtain your PowerSchool username and password from the school. This group of teachers provides services for students, teachers and parents through diagnosis of, planning for and placement of students with special needs. Decisions for final student education plans are a result of Special Services teachers, parents and classroom teachers' input. Included in the Special Services Team are the special education teachers, special education coordinator, the reading coordinator, the school counselor, school nurse, school administration, school psychologist and a teacher from the child's team. GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING PROGRAM GUIDELINES The Windham School District's Guidance and Counseling Program is a vital, essential part of the educational process for all students. This program is designed to meet students' needs by helping them acquire skills which are necessary to meet the expectations of all their life roles -- educational, personal, social, and career. The Guidance and Counseling Program contributes to the overall educational mission of each school and is a function and responsibility of the entire school staff. Further, parents/guardians are encouraged to support their children academically and socially through home-school communication and cooperation. Guidance activities are provided to all students through the Guidance Department and/or through curriculum areas. Activities address age appropriate pro-social skills as well as school to career issues so that students are able to develop their full potential. In that way students may become responsible, contributing members of their community. Responsive services are also provided to students. These include but are not limited to such areas as: crisis intervention, informal assessment, consultation, resource information and referral, individual and group counseling for school related issues (e.g. social skills, academic concerns, family issues, self-confidence, study habits and homework, moving in and out of town, and future planning). The Guidance Department can assist parents with: adolescent issues, behavior management, school progress, conference with teachers, family problems, social adjustment, and arranging resources. Whenever a student is seen individually or in a group, written permission is obtained after the third consecutive appointment. Special education students who require counseling as an educationally related support will receive services consistent with state and federal laws and as detailed in the Individualized Education Program. All information shared in a counseling relationship is treated with the deepest respect. Counselors have an ethical responsibility and a professional duty not to divulge information learned in a private interaction unless there are special and compelling circumstances, or a legal mandate to do so. Specifically, counselors are obligated to share information with parents of minors and others in the following circumstances: as ordered by a court of law; to protect a student from harm, abuse and neglect; and, to warn potential victims of intent to harm. Counselors are also required to uphold all school rules and school district policies, including those related to school conduct. All counselors in SAU #28 are trained and certified professionals who adhere to the ethical standards of the American School Counselor Association. A certified media generalist and instructional assistant staff the media center. The collection includes over 11,500 items. Students are encouraged to visit the media center during class or study hall to select books or magazines, utilize computers, or do research. Students who use the media center must be accompanied by a staff member or have a pass from their classroom teacher. All books and materials must be signed out. Students may check out up to four items at a time. Materials may be kept for a period of four weeks. Overdue notices are sent out when materials are a month overdue. Lost or damaged materials must be replaced or paid for prior to the end of school. Appropriate behavior in the media center is expected. Students who become habitual offenders may lose their library privileges. The school maintains a fully equipped health room staffed by a nurse who is on duty throughout the school day. One or two tablets of Tylenol (acetaminophen) may be given by the nurse for fever over 101, minor pain from headache, general malaise, dental discomfort or menstrual cramps. For students aged 12 and over, one or two tablets of ibuprofen 200mg may be given by the nurse for fever, general malaise, pain from headache, dental discomfort or menstrual cramps. Parental consent in written form needs to be on file in Nurse's office prior to the administration of acetaminophen or ibuprofen. No other medication can be dispensed by the nurse without the written permision of a physician. This includes non-prescription drugs as well as prescription drugs. Students are not allowed to keep medications on their person.
A full time reading coordinator is housed at the Middle School. The coordinator assists reading teachers with the curriculum, assesses individual student needs in the area of reading, and provides direct services to students for reading. The school lunch program provides a nutritious lunch for a set price. The set price is published in the opening day letter. Each student will have available to them their own laminated SNAP lunch card. Students may deposit money into their SNAP accounts. If there is no money in the account the student will be allowed to charge up to $3.20 (2 days) for lunch only (no snacks), after that a sandwich will be available for $.50. Snack items may not be purchased without money in the account. Students who qualify for free or reduced lunch may pick up a form in the main office. Currently, we have a drink machine and a chip/snack machine in the cafeteria. These machines work on cash, not student SNAP cards. Vending machines are only available to students during designated lunch times, before and after school, and other times during the day with permission. It is our belief that academic success and good citizenship should be formally recognized. Students who attain either one will receive a certificate at the end of the school year recognizing their achievement. The Honor Roll works as follows: · High Honors (minimum requirement) · A's (A-'s are acceptable) in all subject areas including unified arts. · Honors · A's and B's (A-'s and B-'s are acceptable) in all subject areas including unified arts. · Any grade below a B- excludes a student from the Honor Roll. Citizenship The criteria for citizenship are as follows. Students should meet four out of the five requirements listed below with emphasis being placed upon numbers 2, 3 and 4. 1) Involvement in school sponsored activities such as baking for sales, setting up and preparing for activities, making posters for upcoming events, participating in student council special days, etc. 2) Showing respect for peers and all school personnel. This would include valuing other students' property and ideas, listening to teacher aides, custodians, school secretary, nurse and other personnel in the building. 3) Helping others with academic and/or personal problems, i.e. peer tutoring, assisting with peer pressure, listening to and being a good friend. 4) Following school and team rules. 5) Demonstrating positive leadership. Any student interested in having his/her merits considered for citizenship must complete a written self-evaluation. This paragraph will be passed in to homeroom teachers by each student stating why he or she should be awarded citizenship for that marking period. Teachers will encourage students to write an evaluation of another student in their grade. Homeroom teachers will review the information and then the team of teachers for that grade level will make the final decisions on which students will receive the awards. Names of students earning honor roll and citizenship will be published in several of the local newspapers at the end of each marking period. An officer of the Windham Police Department has been assigned to the Windham School District. The officer is an integral part of the school community and takes part in teaching various elements of the health curriculum, working closely with the school counselor and administration, working directly with students and their parents, and having a significant presence in the school and at school activities. Students are expected to come to school every day and to be on time. If they arrive after 7:40 they should report to the main office to sign in and receive a late pass to class. Whenever a student is going to be absent or tardy a parent should call the school safety phone and leave a message on the answering machine by 8:15. The safety phone number to call is 893-0434, which is also the nurse's phone line. If a call is not received and a child is absent, volunteers will call the home or the workplace of a parent/guardian. A note explaining the absence is required the day the student returns to school. The note will be given to the homeroom teacher and must be signed and dated by a parent or legal guardian. Failure to provide a note may result in disciplinary action such as loss of privileges, in-school suspension or detention. We encourage families to take vacations during the scheduled school vacations. Taking students out of school for several days in a row, or longer, presents a variety of problems. It is very difficult for students to make up work, and in some cases, it is impossible to make up work that has taken place during class time. Students will be given the same number of days to make up their work as they have missed, unless other arrangements have been made with the team or individual teachers. Students who are absent for an entire school day will not be eligible to participate in any extra curricular activity or after school activity on the day they are absent. Enrichment at Middle School is an all-inclusive program. The goal of the program is to help students develop skills to perform to the best of their abilities. Providing resources and support, the enrichment teacher travels to classrooms and works with the whole class and with small groups. Classroom instruction includes multiple intelligence and creative thinking skills activities, technology-related projects, and projects that provide differentiation. The enrichment teacher also works closely with classroom teachers to develop curriculum related projects and activities. Specific appropriate dress standards are designed to promote the health and safety of all students. Dress codes ensure that all students will have the right to learn without being offended or distracted in the learning process by the clothing or appearance of others. Students are expected to adhere to standards of dress and appearance that are compatible with an effective learning environment. Presenting a bodily appearance or wearing clothing which is disruptive, provocative, revealing, profane, vulgar, offensive, or endangers the health or safety of the student or other students is prohibited. The dress code will be followed at all school functions, unless otherwise specified for special events. Students have the responsibility to learn and observe the basic standards of appropriate school dress, personal cleanliness, modesty and good grooming. Expectations for appropriate school attire may include, but are not limited to, the following: · No undergarments may be visible at any time. · Shirts and blouses must completely, and at all times, cover the abdomen, back, chest, and sides of the body. Tops with low neckline and/or expose the midriff above the waistband are not acceptable. Sleeveless tops must be at least 3 inches wide and not expose the back. · No clothing advertising or related to drugs, alcohol or tobacco products or that display other inappropriate messages may be worn. · No clothing or accessories which are obscene, profane, threatening, or dangerous (including chains, heavy necklaces, spiked jewelry, etc.) may be worn. · Clothing may not be excessively tight (such as spandex), see-through, or revealing. · Except in cases where permission has been granted, hats and jackets may not be worn in school. · Shorts may be worn only in the early fall or late spring at the discretion of the principal. Excessively short skirts or shorts are unacceptable. As a general guide, shorts and skirts should reach mid-thigh or finger tip length. · Head coverings (including hats, head stockings, bandanas, or sweatbands) are not permitted, except in special circumstances approved by school administration. · All clothing must be neat in appearance (no excessive holes, rips, or tears). · Pants must be worn at the waist, and stay there on their own. Pants that are excessively saggy or baggy will not be permitted. · No attire should attract undue attention to the wearer. Students who violate the dress code for the first time will be given a warning, unless the attire is such an egregious infraction that it cannot be allowed. Second violations will require that the student must change his/her clothes, which may involve parents bringing in clothing from home. Future violations will result in more significant consequences. Nearly all Windham students are assigned to a specific bus and are also assigned to a specific bus stop. Occasionally it is necessary for a student to ride a different bus at the end of the school day. Permission to do this can only be granted by the school administration. A student must bring in a note clearly explaining the reason and the note must be signed by a parent or guardian. Visiting with a friend after school is not considered a valid reason and permission will not be granted. The responsibility for the safety of pupils in school transportation is shared by the local school boards, superintendent, administrators, pupil transportation personnel, safety staff, instructional staff, school bus drivers, parents, the motoring public and students themselves. Any program of safety must be a cooperative effort. Points to Emphasize to Students: 1. Be on time. 2. Wait quietly - do not play in the roadway 3. Do not damage property at the bus stop such as flowers, shrubs, trees and lawns. 4. Do not leave litter at the bus stop. 5. Stand back about 10 feet from the roadway while waiting for the bus. 6. If students must cross the roadway to board the bus, look in both directions for traffic, wait until the bus driver signals before crossing the road. 7. When boarding the bus, use the handrail and take the steps one at a time. 8. Speak to the driver in a pleasant manner. 9. Go directly to your seat. On the School Bus: Good conduct is necessary for a safe bus ride. The driver must concentrate on driving and the students should cooperate to help keep the bus safe and on schedule. Safety Rules for Passengers: 1. Watch your sitting posture as you would in the classroom. 2. Remain seated until the bus reaches its' destination and comes to a complete stop. 3. Be very quiet at railroad grade crossings so the bus driver can hear railroad warning signals. 4. Keep the aisle of the bus clear. 5. Keep the bus clean, don't be a "litterbug". 6. Keep your head, arms and hands inside the bus at all times. 7. Keep your feet off the seats. 8. Keep books and all other objects under seat, not in the aisle. 9. Remain quiet so that you will not distract the bus driver. 10. Obey the bus driver's directions promptly and cheerfully. 11. Never throw objects around inside the bus or outside the window. 12. Never open the windows without the driver's permission. Leaving the Bus: Students should leave the bus in an orderly manner. Courtesy contributes to safety. Points to remember: 1. Keep seated until the bus comes to a complete stop. 2. Don't push or shove, but move quickly. 3. Be pleasant and courteous to driver. 4. Use the handrail and take one step at a time when leaving the bus. 5. If your home is on the right side of the road, go directly to the driveway so the driver can always see you. 6. Don't stop at the mailbox until the bus leaves the area. Riding the bus is a privilege The privilege may be temporally denied or permanently revoked if misconduct of a child would jeopardize the safe operation of the school bus or safety of the children riding the bus. Should an infraction occur, the following actions will take place: 1. A conference will be held with the student to establish the facts for both points of view. 2. Parents will be informed of the infraction. Parents will also be informed that transportation privileges may be denied if the situation is not corrected satisfactorily. 3. Second offenders will be denied transportation up to ten(10) days should the nature of the infraction warrant this action. 4. A copy of the suspension letter denying transportation privileges will be forwarded to the superintendent's office. 5. In the case of a third offense within a school year, the student will be denied transportation for the remainder of the year. A copy of the suspension letter denying transportation privileges will be sent to the superintendent's office. The parent or guardian of a pupil who has been denied the right to ride a school bus for disciplinary reasons has the right of appeal. USE OF OR POSSESSION OF TOBACCO NO SMOKING POLICY Smoking, the possession of tobacco products, or showing evidence of smoking is prohibited by students on school property during school hours and during any school sponsored function. School property includes the school building, school grounds and school buses. For the first offense, an automatic suspension of five (5) days will be invoked. Parents will be informed by the school administration of the infraction and notification shall be made to the civil authorities. Parents will also be informed of the right of appeal to the superintendent. In the event a student is apprehended on a subsequent offense, the Principal will issue a ten (10) day suspension. Parents must contact the school and make arrangements with the school administration before the student is readmitted to school. Parent will be informed of the right to appeal to the Superintendent and to the school board. As with all cases of long term suspensions, the parents have the right to a hearing or may appeal the decision to the Superintendent and the school board. This policy is corollary to New Hampshire RSA 78:12b 11 which makes possession of tobacco products unlawful for persons under eighteen years of age and New Hampshire RSA 155:64 which as of January 1, 1998 makes it unlawful for smoking to take place in school buildings or on any school property (including outside of the building, in the parking lot or anywhere on school property). Further, RSA 155:76 provides the person in charge of the building, typically the principal, the ability to call law enforcement authorities if any person refuses to refrain from smoking. It is important to note that any person smoking in a school building or on school property is, in fact, guilty of a violation and may be subject to a fine of not less than $100.00 in the event that legal action is taken. It is the policy of the Windham School district that smoking in any school building or on any school property, at any time, is totally prohibited. The use of possession of intoxicants in or on school property, vehicles, and at school events is prohibited. A) When it has been established to the principal's satisfaction that the suspected student is in violation of the policy, an automatic five (5) day suspension will be invoked. B) The suspension is imposed independently of any prosecution which may be forthcoming in accordance with the provisions of the law. C) Along with parent/guardians the student will have a satisfactory conference with the principal prior to being readmitted to school. Subsequent Offenses: A) In the event of a second offense, the student will be immediately referred the Superintendent of Schools for a twenty (20) day suspension. B) Further violation will result in a recommendation for expulsion from the Superintendent of Schools to the Windham School Board. C) All cases of violation are subject to appeal and annual review by the administration and board. USING OR HAVING POSSESSION OF DANGEROUS DRUGS OR FACSIMILE DRUGS The use or possession of illegal drugs, dangerous drugs or facsimile drugs in or on school property, vehicles or at a school event is prohibited. When it has been established to the principal's satisfaction that the suspected student possesses or is under the influence of real/facsimile drugs, the principal will invoke an automatic five (5) day suspension. Except those students guilty of trafficking real/facsimile drugs will be referred to the Superintendent of Schools for a twenty (20) day suspension and/or may also be referred to the Windham School Board if in the judgment of the Superintendent, an expulsion hearing is warranted. A) The suspension is imposed independently of any prosecution which may be forthcoming in accordance with the provisions of the law. B) In order for a student who has been suspended for being in possession or under the influence of a real/facsimile drug to be readmitted, the following conditions must be met: 1. A satisfactory conference with the student and his/her parent or guardian at the time of the student's readmission. 2. When the student returns to school following the suspension the parents and/or guardians must provide evidence indicating the student has either recovered sufficiently from residual effects of the drug or is undergoing appropriate psychiatric or medical care. The principal will have the discretionary authority to determine what action is appropriate for each individual case. 3. The student and his/her parents/guardian must sign a written statement that subsequent drug related activities will result in a request to the Superintendent of Schools for a twenty (20) day suspension and meeting with the Windham School Board. If a student is identified as being under the influence or being in possession of real/facsimile drugs, the parents/guardians will be notified immediately and will be requested to come to school to pick up their child. If the school has been unable to contact the parents or if they are unavailable, the school may request the police to supply transportation and/or detention. In the event a student has been found in violation of the policy for more than one incident, the case shall be referred to the Superintendent of Schools for the following action: 1. Twenty day (20) suspension. 2. Recommendation to the Windham School Board for permanent suspension. 3. A meeting with the Windham School Board and the student along with the parents/guardians to show cause as to why the student should continue as a student in the Windham School system. USING OR HAVING POSSESSION OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA/FACSIMILE The Windham School Board views with utmost seriousness the behavior of any student who is violating or is appearing to violate the New Hampshire of Federal Controlled Substance Act. The trafficking or possession of look alike or illicit appearing substance and article among students not permitted. It is a violation of the discipline code for a student to use or possess any drug paraphernalia. Any disciplinary action taken will follow the guidelines listed under use or possession of drugs. DANGEROUS WEAPONS IN THE SCHOOLS Dangerous weapons (knives, gun, firecracker, brass knuckles, etc.) are not permitted on school property. Students in possession will have weapons confiscated, parents will be notified, and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken which may include expulsion from school. Please be aware that under the Gun Free School Act, a twelve month expulsion is mandatory for bringing or possessing a fire arm in a Safe School Zone without written authorization from the Superintendent or his designee. Also, acts of theft, destruction, violence, drug and alcohol offenses, sexual offenses, arson, criminal mischief, and assault threatening will be reported to the Windham Police Department. Consequences
It is the policy of the schools to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the interest of the larger welfare of all citizens. At the same time, schools have the responsibility to parents for the welfare of the student while they are in the care of the school. To carry out this responsibility school officials should observe following: 1) A student may not be interrogated on school premises by any authority without the knowledge of the school officials. 2) Any interrogation must be done in private, if possible, with an official school representative present. 3) A student may not be released into the custody of persons other than parent or legal guardian, unless placed under arrest by legal authority. 4) If a student is removed from the school by legal authority, parents should be notified of this action by school officials as soon as possible. 5) School officials have the right to search a student's locker and to confiscate any drug material that may be illegal of harmful. Each student will be issued a school locker near his/her homeroom. Students will store articles of clothing, books, notebooks, and other school items in them. A combination lock, supplied by the school, will be issued to each student. Only school issued locks may be used. Failure to return the lock assigned to you will result in a $5.00 charge. Please be reminded that the lockers are the property of the school district and may be subject to search. PHYSICAL EDUCATION LOCKERS Students will be assigned a locker in the respective locker rooms and will be issued a school supplied lock for their locker. No other locks may be used. Failure to return the assigned lock or returning a non-functioning lock will result in a lock replacement charge of $5.00. WINDHAM PHYSICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM Physical Education is more than simply playing games and running around the gym. It develops the physical, social, emotional, and mental capabilities of each student. This is accomplished by offering a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, individual and team related sports, and competitive and non-competitive games that place an emphasis on life long fitness. The grade for Physical Education is derived from a mathematical point system which includes the criteria listed below. Each student is evaluated on a daily basis and can earn a maximum of 10 points for each class attended. Criteria for Grading System 1 4 Points - Changing into proper gym attire. 2 3 Points - Participating with good effort. 3 2 Points - Displaying cooperation, attentiveness, and sportsmanship throughout class. 4 1 Point - Arriving "on time" for attendance. 10 Points Maximum. Special Grading Considerations & Concerns 1) 1 Each child is allowed one day of non-participation per 1/2 quarter ("I forgot my gym clothes.") without loss of points. 2) 2 On the second day of non-participation and for every day after, students that do not participate will receive a zero. 3) 3 No daily grade will be given for students with medical excuses. A note is required from a physician or parent. All students will receive a mid term progress report. Any concerns or questions regarding your child's progress can be directed to their homeroom teacher and/or the Physical Education teacher. Art is a required subject at Windham Middle School. Art education fosters perceptual awareness, creativity, aesthetic valuing, history, life-coping skills, literacy, communication, and the understanding of one's self. The curriculum covers this with a variety of classroom activities fro paint to computers. The grade for Art is a mathematical point system explained below. Every art student is evaluated for each day they have art and can acquire 10 points for each class. Art Grades 5 Points = Excellent 4 Points = Good 3 Points = Satisfactory 2 Points = Fair 1 Point = Poor 0 Points = No pencil Grades for Art are based on the school's academic rating system. Extracurricular Art Programs include the WMS Art Club. Midterm progress reports are issued for all students. Music is a required subject at Windham Middle School. Students may meet this requirement by selecting one of the following options: Band, Chorus or Music Appreciation. There is a 6th, 7th and 8th grade band and chorus. They are combined for some concert performances. In addition to our regular music program, we offer a "jazz band" and "select choir". Students who are interested must be in the regular school music classes and be auditioned and selected by the music teacher. These groups perform many different times throughout the year. Each year the music program includes a winter and spring concert, participation in the Windham Memorial Day Parade, participation in the state music festival, and other selected festivals and exchange concerts. Music Grades A student's band grade is based on participation, daily attendance, concert and festival attendance, lessons and at home practice. A student's chorus grade is based on participation, class attendance and concert/festival attendance. Progress reports are issued to all students participating in any of the three music choices. INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS AND EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES It is our belief that student participation in competitive athletics and extra curricular activities are an important part of a child's overall school experience. Students have an opportunity to participate in field hockey, boys and girls soccer, and cross country in the fall, boys and girls basketball, cheerleading in the winter, and girls softball, boys baseball, golf and track and field in the spring. There are also a wide range of activities and clubs that meet after school such as Yearbook Club, Drama Club, Art Club, etc. Academic Standards In order for students to participate on any interscholastic team or extracurricular activity they must be in good academic standing. Any student who fails two or more subjects will not be allowed to participate in any extracurricular activity or interscholastic team. Determination of eligibility will be made at mid-term report time and when grades are posted at the end of each marking period. If a student is failing one class, he or she will be suspended from the team or extra curricular activity for two weeks. If, during that time, a passing grade is earned, the student will be reinstated. If a passing grade is not earned after two weeks, the student will be permanently suspended from the team or extracurricular activity. If a student should receive permission to drop an elective, French, Spanish or ILS, the grade he or she has earned will count toward eligibility for an extra-curricular activity if the student has been in the class for 50% or more of the marking period. Physical Examinations In order to participate in any interscholastic sport, all students must take a physical examination and pass it. One physical is good for the entire year unless there are unusual circumstances. This is the responsibility of the parent or guardian. Various classes and student groups sponsor dances throughout the school year. These dances are open to any Windham resident in grades 6, 7 and 8, even though they may be enrolled in a school other than Windham Middle School. There will be no invited guests to the school dances. The dances are from 7:00 - 9:00. (See Dance Expectations on page 36.) The dances are a school sponsored event so all school rules apply regarding proper behavior this includes the school dress code. Students who were not in school the day of the dance are not allowed to attend. In addition, any student who has a Saturday Detention or a Suspension from school may not attend the next dance. Students are not allowed to leave the building at any time during the dance unless they are being dismissed by a parent or guardian who must come directly to the cafetorium doors to pick their child up. Once a student leaves, he or she is not allowed to return. Parents should pick students up at the Middle School at the conclusion of the dance. Students will not be allowed to walk down to Golden Brook School as this poses a safety issue for the children. Occasionally parents or students ask if a student from another school may visit for the day. Permission may be granted by the administration when the following criteria are met: The visiting student must be a 6th, 7th, or 8th grader. A request must be made in advance, to the school administration from the parent or guardian of the Windham Middle School student. Former students who are now in high school may visit only after school hours. Students who are involved in cheating will receive consequences appropriate to their involvement. Students are not allowed to bring cameras (digital or non-digital), portable radios, walkmans, cassette & CD players, cassettes or CD discs, pagers,MP3 players, IPODS, etc... to school unless it is for a school project and they have written permission from a parent or guardian and/or teacher. Cell Phones are not allowed to be used during the school day (7:40-2:15) unless special permission is granted. If students violate this rule, the machine will be confiscated and brought to the office. Students will see the principal at the end of the day before bringing the machine home. If a second offense occurs, the parents will be notified and they will be asked to come to school to pick up the device. In addition, wallet chains are not allowed in school and will be removed from students who are seen carrying them. All student behavior must be based on respect and consideration for the rights of others. Students have a responsibility to know and respect the rules and regulations of the school. Students have the further responsibility to behave in a manner appropriate to good citizenship everywhere. This includes treating all students and staff with courtesy, consideration and respect. Insults, force, or sarcasm shall not be used. A student whose behavior is unacceptable may be given an In-Team Detention by their team of teachers or by the school administration. Students on an In-Team Detention will be assigned to one of the teachers on his or her team for the entire day. The student will stay in that one room and will not participate in any school activities that day including gym, study, library privileges, lunch and recess. While on an In-Team Detention, all the day's assignments will be given to the student and he or she is expected to complete the work. The length of an In-Team Detention may vary from 1-3 days depending upon the nature of the problem. In all cases, parents will be notified when their child receives an In-Team Detention. DETENTIONS Another consequence of inappropriate behavior is an after school detention. Parents will be notified 24 hours in advance of the detention so that appropriate transportation considerations can be worked out. The length of time for an after school detention will be up to one hour. SATURDAY DETENTION A student will be assigned to a specific supervised area within the Middle School on Saturdays from 8:00 am to 12:00 noon. Saturday detention may only be assigned by the school administrators. Students who serve a Saturday detention may not attend the next dance. Fighting in school, in the school yard, or at school activities is not allowed and will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Students involved in fighting will receive serious consequences which may include suspension from school and a report to the police department. SCHOOL SUSPENSION AND EXPULSIONS Whenever a student is suspended from school or, in extreme cases, has been expelled from school, he or she will not be allowed to participate in or attend any school related activities during the period of suspension or expulsion. This includes all after school activities. In addition, they may not attend the next school dance. Suspension from school may also result in loss of school privileges, removal from a school team, club, etc., and removal from elected office. Unauthorized absence from school is considered truancy and will be treated as such. See RSA 193:1,2,7. This includes absence from any class, study hall, or activity during the school day for which the student is scheduled. It also includes any after school special help session or disciplinary session which the student has been directed to attend. Disciplinary action shall be taken in such cases, beginning with after school detention and notification of parents. Continued violation may lead to Saturday morning detentions or suspension from school. Chewing gum in school is not allowed. Students who do chew gum will be asked to properly dispose of it. Chronic offenders may receive a detention, and/or loss of privileges. Students are encouraged not to bring large sums of money to school. School sponsored events that require payment should be paid, when possible, by check. If it is necessary to bring money, students should not leave it in their desk, gym bag, jacket or lockers. The same holds true of jewelry, watches, etc. All students have an opportunity to travel to Washington DC in the spring of their eighth grade year. Parents are given a packet at an informational meeting in September that explains all that is necessary to make an informed decision about the trip. The itinerary includes many areas that enhance the eighth grade curriculum in United States history. This trip is designed to foster individual growth, broaden historical knowledge and give each eight grader a greater appreciation of his or her country. WALKING OR RIDING A BICYCLE TO SCHOOL Students may walk and ride a bike to and from school as long as they have written permission. Permission slips can be good for the entire year if so stated and may be kept on file in the office. Bicycles are to be kept next to the school at the bicycle rack. Students are required to wear a helmet if they bring their bicycle on school property and are encouraged to provide locks for their bikes. Bicycle privileges can be taken away if students are seen riding unsafely to or from school. Each year the school is involved in several fund raising activities. In the fall, students can volunteer participate in the QSP Magazine fund raising program. Proceeds from this go into the student activity fund. Over the years, we have purchased equipment and helped fund a variety of field trips. Other groups also sponsor minor fund raisers help defray the cost of activities such as field trips or for the purchase of uniforms, etc. We have been very successful with these activities and appreciate your continuous support. Textbooks issued to each student are his or her direct responsibility. If a student does not turn in the book assigned, that student will be charge a replacement cost. If books are returned damaged, full or partial payment may be assessed depending upon the condition of the book. Students are also responsible for any materials checked out of the library and are liable for any replacement costs. Failure to reimburse the school could result in non-participation in end of year school activities or other consequences. Students are expected to arrive at school on time, no later than 7:40am. All students who are tardy must report to the office to get a pass in order to be admitted to the classrooms. Please bring a note to the office if the tardy is excused. If possible, please call the school safety phone (893-0434) prior to 8:15 to inform the office of a tardy. Students who do not have a legitimate excuse for their tardiness will be subject to an after school detention after their third incident. Students who are tardy more than 9 times in a marking period will not be allowed to attend the next dance. Continued chronic tardiness (more than 12 tardies) will result in a Saturday morning detention and loss of school privileges. If you choose to stay after school as a spectator to an after school activity, you must have written permission. Unless permission is granted, students must take their regular bus home at dismissal. Permission for staying after school for sporting events can be granted for the year and kept on file if indicated in a parent note. The use of skateboards and scooters is prohibited on Middle School property at all times. Students are also not allowed to bring skateboards or scooters to school. Sneakers or shoes with rollers are prohibited on school property. Students are not allowed to use beepers or cell phones at school. Students wishing to use a telephone may, with permission, use the pay phone (the charge is $.75 cents). School phones may be used for an emergency and only with permission from a staff person. Students are encouraged to carry $.75 or a phone card. Cell phones are not allowed to be used during school hours unless special permission is granted. In the event of inclement weather, NO SCHOOL announcements will be made on the following radio stations: WGIR 610AM WBZ 1030AM WFEA 1370AM WZID 95.7FM The following television stations are also notified: WMUR (9 WBZ (4) WHDH (7) WCVB (5) When school is canceled, other activities scheduled for after school will be canceled as well. ALERTNOW The Windham School District has adopted the ALERTNOW Rapid Notification Service to enhance parental communication. This will allow us to send a voice and/or email message to ALL of student parents within minutes, if an emergency occurs at a school. The ALERTNOW service will also assist the schools in reducing the resources needed to pass along key information regarding school events or reminders. The intent of this system is for group notification purposes. Customary and usual procedures for individual parent notifications will continue as normal. The district will be utilizing ALERTNOW for:
Windham Middle School will be utilizing ALERTNOW for non-emergency purposes such as:
A notice requesting the information will be passed out at the beginning of the school year. Pupil Safety and Violence Prevention Policy Under RSA 193-F It is the policy of the Windham School District that its students have an educational setting that is safe, secure, peaceful and free from student harassment also known as bullying. The District will not tolerate unlawful harassment of any type and conduct that constitutes bullying as defined herein will not be tolerated. Bullying Defined "Bullying" for purposes of this policy is defined as insults, taunts, or challenges, whether verbal or physical in nature, which are likely to intimidate or provoke a violent or disorderly response. Bullying in violation of this policy may not rise to the level of unlawful harassment under Title IX of the Education Acts of 1972, the Americans With Disabilities Act, Title VI, or the Rehabilitation Act of 1974. Reporting Procedure 1) 1Any student who believes they have been a victim of bullying may report the alleged act to the building principal. If a student is more comfortable reporting the alleged act to a person other than the building principal, the student may contact any School District employee. 2) 2Any school employee, or employee of a company under contract with the school or School District, who has witnessed or has reliable information that a student has been subjected to bullying shall report the incident to the student's principal or the principal's designee. 3) 3Upon receipt of a report of bullying, the principal or designee shall within 24 hours forward a written report to the superintendent of the incident and the principal or designee's response to the incident. 4) 4The principal, or designee, shall by telephone and in writing by first-class mail, report the occurrence of any incident of bullying to the parent or legal guardian of all pupils involved within 48 hours of the occurrence of such incident. Said notice shall include a copy of this Policy. The superintendent may, within the 48 hour time period, grant the principal a written waiver from the notification requirement if the superintendent deems such waiver to be in the best interest of the child. Investigation and Remedial Action 1) 1The principal or designee shall investigate all alleged acts of bullying. 2) 2The principal will take such disciplinary action deemed necessary and appropriate, including but not limited to detention, in-house suspension, out-of-school suspension or referral to superintendent to consider long-term suspension or expulsion, and/or referral to law enforcement in order to end bullying and prevent its recurrence. 3) 3The procedures under RSA 193:13, Ed 317 and the School District discipline policies establish the due process and appeal rights for students disciplined for acts of bullying. 4) 4Besides initiating disciplinary action, the principal may also take other remedial action deemed necessary and appropriate to end bullying and prevent its recurrence including but not limited to requiring participation in peer mentoring, life skills groups; and/or reassigning classes, lunch periods or transportation. 5) 5For non-disciplinary remedial actions where no other review procedures govern, the parent or legal guardian of the pupils involved in the bullying shall have the right to appeal the principal or designee's decision to the Superintendent in writing within 5 days. The Superintendent shall review the principal or designee's decision and issue a written decision within 10 days. If the aggrieved party is still not satisfied with the outcome, then the aggrieved party may file a written request for review by the School Board within 10 days of the Superintendent's decision. The School Board shall adhere to the procedures set forth in Ed 216 in resolving the dispute. Any individual aggrieved by the School Board's decision shall have the right to appeal the decision to the State Board of Education within 20 calendar days of receipt of the written decision of the School Board in accordance with Ed 200. Policy Notification Copies of this policy shall be given to all employees, students and parents annually by publishing in the applicable handbook. Whenever new School District employees or students begin during the school year, they shall receive a copy of the appropriate handbook before commencing work or school attendance. Bullying As Abuse Under certain circumstances, bullying could constitute abuse under RSA 169-C, the Child Abuse Reporting Act. In such situations, employees shall comply with provisions of the School District's policy JLF and the law. Sexual Harassment Bullying may constitute sexual harassment in which case it shall be subject to the School District's policy JBAA. Immunity A school employee, or employee of a company under contract with a school or school district, who has reported violations under this chapter to the principal, or designee shall be immune from any cause of action which may arise from the failure to remedy the reported incident. SEXUAL HARASSMENT It is the policy of the Windham School District that all employees and students should be able to work and study in an environment that is free of sexual discrimination and sexual harassment. Sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, non-verbal, and/or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute-sexual harassment when: 1) Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment or education; 2) Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for academic or employment decisions affecting the individual; 3) Such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual's academic or professional performance or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive employment, educational or living environment. Sexual harassment is illegal under both State and Federal laws. In some cases, the individual may be susceptible to prosecution under the criminal sexual conduct law. Any district employee having a complaint of sexual harassment should notify the immediate supervisor in the school. If the complaint is against the immediate supervisor, that person's immediate supervisor should be contacted. A student should notify the school principal. At any time, a student or employee may contact the Superintendent of Schools for counseling and advice. Each school shall have an informal complaint process, adapted to the sensitive nature of sexual harassment complaints, to address allegations of sexual harassment. The informal procedure will establish a process which allows for resolution by mutual agreement and provides for a readily accessible and flexible means of dealing with complaints of sexual harassment. All school complaint procedures are subject to approval by the Superintendent and shall be presented to the Superintendent no later than November I of a given year, for purposes of review leading to approval. Formal grievance procedures for complaints of sexual harassment are the formal hearing procedures of the district's Title IX Grievance Procedures in accordance with due process requirements. In addition to the requirements of the Title IX Grievance Procedure, the following special provisions will be observed. Confidentiality will be observed until the grievance officer decides whether the allegation warrants disciplinary action. When a formal grievance has come from a female student or a female staff or faculty member, a female counselor or a female member of the Title IX committee shall be present at all discussions and meetings involving the case. When the formal grievance has come from a male student or a male faculty member, a male counselor or a male member of the Title IX committee shall be present at all discussions or meetings involving the case. When a formal grievance has been brought by a student, there shall be a supportive Title IX committee representative or counselor present during the investigation hearing to make it easier for the student to discuss such a delicate issue and to be sure that the elements of the complaint are properly represented and fair to both parties. Those involved with sexual harassment investigations will protect the confidentiality of all information relating to the case. The sexual harassment policy, formal and informal complaint procedures, shall be widely disseminated throughout the district's schools. WINDHAM SCHOOL DISTRICT INTRANET/INTERNET ACCEPTABLE USE Internet access is now available to students and school personnel in the Windham School District. We are very pleased to bring this access to the Windham School District and believe the Internet offers vast, diverse, and unique resources to both students and teachers. To gain access to this district-wide network (Intranet) and the Internet, all users must sign the attached form. All users under the age of 18 must obtain parental permission. Please read this document carefully and discuss it with your child before signing. The Windham School's district-wide network (Intranet) will provide the gateway connecting students and school personnel to the Internet, the electronic highway connecting thousands of computers around the world. Students and school personnel will have access to universities, colleges, other schools, businesses, government agencies and to e-mail communication with people all over the world. The Windham School District is committed to using the Internet as a global source of information within its educational programs. Our goal is to provide Internet service to promote educational excellence through communication, resource sharing, innovation, and research. 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