Middle School Student/Parent Handbook
Rules - Guidelines - Information
Table of Contents
(alphabetical order)
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Welcome to the St. Marys Area Middle School. We feel that our
children will receive the best possible education in the years that they spend
with us. Our sincere hope is that they will enter this school to better
themselves and depart to better the world in which they
live.
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Mr. Jim Wortman, Principal.................................................................................781-2146
Miss Karen Lucanik, Student Concerns Coordinator. ................................781-2133
Kate McGonnell, Guidance................................................................................ 781-2149
Wendy Hanslovan, Guidance.............................................................................781-2139
Mrs. Melissa Cadori, Nurse..................................................................................781-2150
Mrs. Sheryl Surat, Secretary...............................................................................781-2167
Mrs. Wanda Simbeck,
Secretary........................................................................
781-2148
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This handbook is written for the purpose of
providing for the students, parents, and teachers in an official and
compact form, important information concerning the St. Marys Area Middle
School. |
This year, approximately 700 students in grades 6, 7 and 8
will attend the Middle School from St. Marys, Bennetts Valley, and Fox Township.
Our library is enhanced with a variety of text and electronic reference
materials, including approximately 11,000 books and 28 periodicals. Students
are permitted to use the library during the school day with their teacher's
permission.
Our guidance services are available to every student in the school. These
services include assistance with educational planning, testing, and
interpretation of test scores. We also offer aid in acquiring study skills and
provide support to students and families with home, school, and/or social
concerns.
In addition, if a student is experiencing difficulty in various academic
subject areas, we offer the Child Study Program. This program provides the
student academic assistance.
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Parents or others transporting students to school at the
beginning of the school day should pull into the parking lot opposite the
crosswalk; students should not be left off at the curb since this interferes
with buses which may be letting students off at the same time.
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Our cafeteria serves lunch daily, including
a main dish, vegetable or salad, bread, milk, and dessert. We also feature
an a la carte menu. the price is $1.50 per student for meals and extra
white milk is available for $.50 per carton. Students may prefer to carry their lunches but
still have the opportunity to purchase milk. We utilize a closed lunch program
during which all students eat in the school lunchroom.
The lunch period is divided into three 30 minute time slots to allow a
separate eating time for each grade level.
Applications for free or reduced price lunch is distributed at the beginning
of each school term and may be requested as needed throughout the school year.
This program is federally financed and provides for a free or reduced price meal
for students who qualify. Please complete all information on the form if you
feel you qualify and return it to school as soon as possible. A separate
application must be submitted for each child.
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Phone calls to students should be limited to those which
are absolutely necessary. Students may us the telephone in the office when
necessary. A pay telephone is available when the office is closed.
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Students who find property or books, which do not belong
to them, should place them in the lost and found box located in the office. If
you loose such items, please check for them at the office. Each year many
personal items are not claimed at the closing of school. These items are
discarded after the last day of school.
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Students are not permitted to bring visitors to school.
Parents are always welcome to visit the school. If a parent needs to meet with
a teacher for a parent/teacher conference, the parent should contact the school
office to make arrangements for an appointment. ALL VISITORS MUST REPORT TO THE
MAIN OFFICE FOR A VISITOR'S PASS. VISUAL IDENTIFICATION NEEDS TO BE PROVIDED
WITH ALL VISITORS.
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In the event that you move to another community, please notify us at least one day (preferable earlier) prior to your child's lat day of school so we can complete all transfer records. This will make enrollment much easier in your child's new school. The guidance department needs your signature before sending records to any other school.
Substitute teachers are to be treated with the same
respect as a full-time teacher in our school. It is the responsibility of
students to see that every courtesy and assistance is offered to the substitute
teacher. This will insure both a productive and profitable learning experience
for the student population.
All substitute teachers have the same authority as the regular classroom
teacher.
Books and Other School Property
Students are permitted to carry their books and materials
to and from school with a book bag; however, they may not use a book bag of any
type to carry books during the school day.
Pupils are held responsible for the loss or damage of school books. When
books are lost, pupils shall report the loss to the subject teacher and secure a
new book. Books not accounted for at the end of the year must be paid for by
the student. Students are liable for the costs involved in the repair and/or
replacement of any school property lost or damaged.
We feel that pupils should become increasingly responsible for their own
property as well as that of the school. Pupils should not bring excessive
amounts of money or valuable belongings to school, including radios, tape
players, cameras, etc. If, under special circumstances, it is absolutely
necessary to bring such items to school, they must be checked into the office
immediately upon arriving in school.
All students will be assigned a locker and a lock with a locker partner. If
the lock is not returned at the end of the school year, each partner will be
billed $2.00 each for the cost of the lock. Any student not sharing a locker
will be billed $4.00 for a lost lock.
These locks will protect the student's books, coat, and other personal
property against possible theft. PLEASE REMEMBER YOUR COMBINATION! The school
cannot assume responsibility for books or other items reported stolen from
lockers.
Students are not permitted to bring their own locks. Only school locks are
allowed for the reason that if a student is ill and requests homework, office
personnel would be unable to gain access to the locker for the purpose of
gathering books. If there is a problem about security, we will be glad to
exchange the student's lock and issue a new combination. Do not share your
combination or your locker with other students.
Students are permitted to go to their lockers only before and after school, homeroom and lunch. Other than the designated times, students need a signed pass to go to their lockers. Students must stay in the lockers to which they are assigned. THE LOCKERS ARE CONSIDERED TO BE THE PROPERTY OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT AND WITH REASONABLE SUSPICION WILL BE SEARCHED.
St. Marys Area School District
| 7:45 - 8:33 | Period 1 | 48 minutes |
| 8:37 - 9:21 | Period 2 | 44 minutes |
| 9:25 - 10:09 | Period 3 | 44 minutes |
| 10:13 - 10:57 | Period 4 | 44 minutes |
| Grade 6 Lunch - 10:57 - 11:23 | Lunch A | 30 minutes |
| Grade 6 - 11:31 - 12:15 | Period 5 | 44 minutes |
| Grade 6 - 12:19 - 1:03 | Period 6 | 44 minutes |
| Grade 7 -11:01 - 11:45 | Period 5 | 44 minutes |
| Grade 7 Lunch - 11:45 - 12:15 | Lunch B | 30 minutes |
| Grade 7 - 12:19 - 1:03 | Period 6 | 44 minutes |
| Grade 8 - 11:01 - 11:45 | Period 5 | 44 minutes |
| Grade 8 - 11:49 - 12:33 | Period 6 | 44 minutes |
| Grade 8 -Lunch - 12:33 - 1:03 | Lunch C | 30 minutes |
| 1:07 - 1:51 | Period 7 | 44 minutes |
| 1:55 - 2:39 | Period 8 | 44 minutes |
St. Marys Area School District
| 9:45 - 10:18 | Period 1 | 33 minutes |
| 10:22 - 10:51 | Period 2 | 29 minutes |
| 10:55 - 11:24 | Period 3 | 29 minutes |
| 11:28 - 11:57 | Period 4 | 29 minutes |
| Grade 6 Lunch - 11:57 - 12:27 | Lunch A | 30 minutes |
| Grade 6 - 12:31 - 1:00 | Period 5 | 29 minutes |
| Grade 6 - 1:04 - 1:33 | Period 6 | 29 minutes |
| Grade 7 - 12:01 - 12:30 | Period 5 | 29 minutes |
| Grade 7 Lunch - 12:30 - 1:00 | Lunch B | 30 minutes |
| Grade 7 -1:04 - 1:33 | Period 6 | 29 minutes |
| Grade 8 - 12:01 - 12:30 | Period 5 | 29 minutes |
| Grade 8 - 12:34 - 1:03 | Period 6 | 29 minutes |
| Grade 8 Lunch - 1:03 - 1:33 | Lunch C | 30 minutes |
| 1:37 - 2:07 | Period 7 | 30 minutes |
| 2:11 - 2:39 | Period 8 | 29 minutes |
A monthly fire drill will be conducted throughout the
year. Instructions are posted in each room of the school building. If your
child, for any reason, should not participate in any particular month's fire
drill, please notify us in advance. This notice should be in writing whenever
possible.
Plans in place for fire drills, which occur during class exchange or during
lunch are as follows:
During class exchange: Students are to go to the nearest exit and find
their homeroom teacher, even
even if this means going around the building. The homeroom teacher
then takes roll.
During lunch: Students exit the nearest exit to the cafeteria.
Cafeteria monitors and faculty
members eating lunch help take roll in the back parking lot or field.
Physically Impaired: There is a plan in place regarding these students
which involves their aides and
the teachers whose classes they attend.
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Evacuate the room in an orderly manner using the plan designed for your location.
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Leave the lights on!
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Close the door.
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Do not go to your lockers or stop as you exit the building.
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Stay with your teacher so that attendance can be taken.
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Students must stand at least fifty feet from the building when evacuated.
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Do not reenter the building until the "All Clear" signal has been given.
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Do not block fire lanes or access to the building by fire personnel or emergency response personnel.
Each student will be given a permanent pass that will be incorporated into a student planner/assignment book to be issued to each student at the beginning of the school year. The pass must be carried and used at all times or the student will not be permitted to leave class, etc. Emergencies are the exception. In the event that the planner/assignment book is lost a new one may be issued to the student upon the payment of a fee of $3.00. It will be the responsibility of the student to carry the planner/assignment book with them at all times.
Many people visit our school each year. They see our hallways, rooms, lavatories, lockers, cafeteria and other areas. It's appearance reflects upon all of us.
Honor Roll, Grades, and Report Cards
An honor roll list is prepared after each nine weeks grading period. The honor roll will include all students with all grades at 86 or above. The grading system at the St. Marys Area Middle School is based on class work, quizzes, homework, tests, and other assignments. The letter designation and numerical equivalents are:
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A - 94 - 100; Superior................................................ |
Indicates outstanding performance and achievement. |
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B - 86 - 93; Commendable........................................ |
Indicates performance of quality above that normally expected of students at this level. |
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C - 77 - 85; Average.................................................... |
Indicates satisfactory performance of a quality which might reasonably be expected of students at this grade level. |
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D - 70 - 76; Passing...................................................... |
Indicates less than satisfactory performance of a quality which is below average for this grade level, resulting in minimum achievement. |
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F - below 70 Not Passing.............................................................................. |
Indicates little or no effort, resulting in performance which is unacceptable and not sufficient to justify promotion. |
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INC - Incomplete......................................................... |
Indicates that work is not completed due to absence or other reasons and must be turned in or completed within two weeks or the grade will be changed to an "F". |
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M - Medical...................................................................... |
Indicates that work cannot be completed due to a medically documented disability. |
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Pass/Failure..................................................................... |
Indicates successful or unsuccessful completion of a course with no percentage grade given. |
Report cards are issued four times during the school year.
Mathematics - General; English; Social Studies, Science; Reading; Art; Home Economics; Music; Technology Education; Physical Education; Health
Mathematics - General; Pre-Algebra; English; Literature or Reading; Social Studies; Science; Art; Home Economics, Music; Technology Education; Health; Physical Education; Keyboarding; Adolescent Decision Making; Elective Courses: Foreign Language - German, Spanish.
Mathematics - General; Pre-Algebra; Algebra; English; Literature or Reading; Science - Earth And Space; Social Studies; Art; Home Economics, Music; Technology Education; Health; Physical Education; Elective Courses: Foreign Language - German, Spanish.
Note: Students in the 7th and 8th grade that are experiencing difficulty in the basic subjects may be assigned to adaptive sections in order to gain mastery of basic subject material. In addition to the core curriculum, we offer enrichment classes to those students that qualify.
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When a child is thought to be "exceptional" the
first step is for the child to receive a multidisciplinary evaluation.
Parents are entitled to be involved throughout this evaluation process.
An evaluation may be initiated by school personnel or by a parent.
Parental permission will be requested for referrals by school
personnel. Parental requests for evaluation must be in writing and
should state the reasons for the request. If the parent orally requests
an evaluation the school district will proved a request form to the
parent. |
Objective/Goal: To identify the learning needs of
students who are at risk of school failure, and to provide them with the type of
academic, behavioral, and/or social support needed to succeed in school.
Criteria: "At-Risk" students can be identified in the following areas:
academic, behavioral, or social/emotional. Support necessary for these students
may include voluntary parental involvement, or may also entail the assistance of
community agencies to access additional services. The major components of the
Child Study Team staffings are:
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Collaborative consultation
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Instructional adaptation
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Behavior management
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Student assistance/Life Skills
Parent-Sponsored Educational Trips
Parents desiring to take their children on an educational
trip must submit to the administration a description of the educational value to
be gained by the student. This request must be submitted a reasonable time
prior to departure for proper review. Students are responsible for making
arrangements with their teachers to make up all work.
Please contact the school to obtain the appropriate form needed to request
approval for an educational field trip.
No trip will be approved for any student with three or more unexcused or
illegal absences or for any student with more than ten days of absence per
semester or twenty days of absence overall, whether the absences are legal or
not. Principals shall have the authority to limit the number of days of excused
absences for parent - sponsored educational trips, if in their judgment, these
absences would be detrimental to the students' educational progress.
Attendance shall be required of all students enrolled in
the schools during the days and hours that the school is in session, except that
the principal or designee may excuse a student for temporary absences when
he/she receives satisfactory evidence of such mental, physical, or other urgent
conditions which may reasonably cause the student's absence.
The Board of School Directors considers the following conditions to
constitute reasonable cause for absence from school:
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Illness
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Quarantine
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Recovery from accident
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Death in immediate or near family
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Religious holidays
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Required court appearances
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Approved family educational trips
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Emergency farm employment
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Approved school/class tours and/or trips
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Approved medical and/or dental appointments
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Other "urgent reasons" to be considered only as they directly affect the pupil and as agreed to by the principal.
Unexcused or unlawful absences shall include:
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Absence from school with parent's consent of reasons other than those considered excusable.
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Leaving school during school hours without school permission.
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Truancy
Absences may be categorized as "unlawful" if the student is of compulsory school age. Absences may be categorized as "unexcused" if the student is beyond compulsory school age.
If a student has been absent and fails to produce an
excuse three school days after returning, the absence automatically becomes
unlawful (illegal) or unexcused regardless of the reasons for absence.
Any student who is absent from school for a total of fifteen days, excluding
physicians' excuses, approved educational trips and suspensions/expulsions, will
receive a warning letter.
Any student who is absent from school for a total of twenty days, excluding
physicians' excuses, approved educational trips and suspensions/expulsions, will
be required to present a physician's excuse for each absence thereafter within
five school days of that absence.
For students of compulsory school age, whose parents have been notified of
the physician's excuse requirement, each absence over twenty days that is not
substantiated by a physician's excuse within five school days after the absence
shall be considered illegal, and the provisions of the School Code shall be
enforced.
For students over the compulsory school age, any absence over twenty days
that is not substantiated by a physician's excuse within five school days after
the absence may result in that student being removed from the school rolls and
processed as a withdrawal.
Regardless of the accumulated number of days of absence, the school
principal, attendance officer, or superintendent may require a physician's
excuse for a questionable absence.
If a student is absent from school, the parent may request
homework on the second day that the student is home. If the school is notified
on the second day, and if the parent notifies the school prior to 8:15 a.m. on
the second day, the office will make every attempt to have the assignments ready
for pickup at dismissal time. If a parent calls after 8:15 a.m., the
assignments will not be ready for pickup until dismissal time of the following
day.
When a parent calls to request homework, please notify us of what books are
already at home. Whenever possible, please make arrangements to pick up the
homework in the main office. The main office is usually open until 3:30 p.m.
each school day.
If the need arises for any pupil to leave school prior to
dismissal time, a written note, signed by the parent or guardian, must be
presented to the office before 8:00 a.m. of the day for which such excuse is
requested. This information can then be placed in the daily bulletin for
reference by teachers.
If you wish to transport your child from school at a time earlier than
dismissal in the case of any unusual occurrence (doctor's appointment, dental
appointment, etc). The student must be signed out by his/her parent or guardian
in the main office prior to leaving school grounds. The student must sign in if
he/she returns to school during the same school day.
Written excuses are required when a student is absent at lease one-half
day. If a student is absent for an appointment is it recommended that an excuse
written by the doctor/dentist be supplied to the school.
Any time someone other than the parent/guardian is picking up the student, a
written note indicating the name/relationship of the person must be given to the
school. Only under special circumstances and with the permission of the
Principal will students be released to someone other than the parent/guardian by
verbal request.
Students who are frequently absent from school because of
illness should not expect to receive grades in the subjects missed without
making up assignments. Students are responsible for making arrangements to
complete their work. Work must be made up within a reasonable time period, or
it will be considered incomplete and will receive a failing grade.
Students truant (illegally absent) from school may not make up tests or
homework and will receive a failing grade for any day (s) truant.
Pupils reporting to school after the tardy bell has rung (7:45 a.m.) will be marked tardy and must sign in at the main office. An excuse must be presented to the office explaining the reason for tardiness. A late pass will be given in order for the student to enter his/her class. Late bus students will not be considered tardy. Excuses which indicate car problems, missing the bus, or oversleeping, as reasons for late arrival may not be approved.
Truancy is defined as student absence without a parents' or guardians' knowledge and/or permission. A pupil who has been truant is subject to making up the time he/she was truant.
The student and his/her family should make every effort to
avoid early dismissals. Parents shall be advised that excuses for all or part
of the school day shall be at the discretion of the building principals in
accordance with the PA Public School Code. Parents must provide accurate and
complete reasons when requesting that their child be excused.
All early dismissals must be approved in advance by the principal.
Consideration for such approval will be upon written request. The presentation
of a signed written excuse does not guarantee that permission will be granted.
Excuses which indicate car problems, missing the bus, or oversleeping, as
reasons for late arrival may not be approved. Hair appointments, music or
dancing lessons, non-school activities, needed at home and personal reasons may
not be approved as reasons for either early dismissal or late arrival.
Students' absences which are not approved will be considered unexcused (over 17
years of age) and/or illegal.
Parental requests for medical doctor or dental appointments must include the
name of the doctor or dentist to be seen and the time of the appointment. The
doctor or dentist must be a licensed practitioner. Requests for early dismissal
must be written in ink on a complete sheet of paper and contain the following
information:
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full name of student
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student identification number
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precise time of early dismissal
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reason for early dismissal
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name of medical doctor or dentist and time of appointment
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signature and phone number of parent or guardian
Students shall be released from school only to their parents or guardians or to persons with written authorization from the parents or guardians. In case of illness, or suspension, it shall be determined that the parent or a reliable adult is at home before the child is dismissed.
The closing or delayed opening of schools will be announced over radio stations WKBI (St. Marys), WCED and WDBA (DuBois), and WKYN (St. Marys). In the event of an early dismissal, students should be aware of what to do if parents aren't home.
Students absent ten consecutive days may request homebound instruction through the Guidance Office. Special instruction may be arranged for students who will be confined to their homes because of a serious accident or illness. Applications for this instruction should be made through guidance counselors and approved by the doctor in charge.
Students must be in attendance for at least four hours in order to participate in any school sponsored practice or event unless excused by the principal. The principal may remove the privilege of participation for repetitive abuse of this section of the pupil attendance policy. there are regulations regarding school attendance which apply to students who are participating in interscholastic athletics. More information on these is contained in the Athletic Handbook for Students.
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Wake up early enough to get ready for school without rushing.
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Walk to the bus stop and arrive at least five minutes before the bus is scheduled to arrive.
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Behavior at the bus stop: a) Stand at the bus stop at least three giant steps from the roadway. (b) No running, pushing, throwing objects. (c) Be polite with the other students and adults at all times.
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When getting on the bus, go immediately to your assigned seat and remain seated until it is time for you to get off the bus.
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While on the bus there should be no yelling, no pushing, no hitting or throwing of objects. Always keep your head, hands and all other objects inside the bus. Keep aisle was clear of objects.
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Listen to the directions of the bus driver.
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When it is time to get off the bus, wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before standing and walking to the front of the bus.
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Get off the bus in an orderly manner. Walk at least three steps away fro the bus before walking to the left or right.
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If you need to cross the street after getting off the bus, always walk in front of the bus to clearly see the driver. (AT least ten steps in front of the bus). Wait for the bus driver to give you the all clear signal before crossing the roadway.
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Go straight home so your parents/guardians know where you are.
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Do not have items dangling from your backpack, school bag or personal clothing.
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Never attempt to pick up items dropped near the bus. Tell the bus driver.
Students Will:
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Be on time for class.
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Be prepared for class, i.e. have paper and pencil, books, homework, etc.
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Raise their hand and be recognized by the teacher to ask a question.
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Show respect to everyone in the class.
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Wait to be dismissed by the teacher.
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Walk, don't run enroute to the cafeteria.
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Books, school materials, and personal items are to be placed in your locker on the way to lunch.
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Stop at the restroom on the way to lunch. If you have dental appliance and need to brush after eating you will be given permission.
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Seating in the cafeteria is alphabetically with A-L on the Faculty Room side and M-Z on the library side of the cafeteria.
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Line up on the outside walls of the cafeteria while waiting in line. No line hopping and no cutting across the cafeteria to get in line.
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Remain in the same seat for lunch period. You many deposit your lunch tray at the dishwasher window whenever you have finished eating. Lunch trays are to be stacked neatly. After disposing of waste from the tray, place used tableware in the rack provided.
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You must have permission and a pass if it is necessary to leave the cafeteria during lunch.
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Sit only in designated areas. Some tables are set aside as "isolation" tables and are to be used only by those students who have been assigned there.
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Throwing food is forbidden and will result in detention.
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Near the end of the lunch period you will be asked to clean the area surrounding the table where you have been seated. A request to pick up a paper or a crumb is not an accusation that you are responsible but a request to assist in keeping the Middle School neat and clean.
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Dismissal from the cafeteria will be by table. You must wait until the teacher in charge indicates that you are excused.
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Please push your chair in under the table as you leave.
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For any food purchase, students must go through the cafeteria line before taking a seat.
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Students would use only the double doors to enter the cafeteria.
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Upon entering the cafeteria, proceed directly to the line if you wish to purchase any food items.
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Do not save seats for yourself or for others.
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Do not wait until the line shortens to purchase food.
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Food may not be taken from the cafeteria. Students are not permitted to have parties during school. Any exception must have the building principal's prior approval.
Only Middle School students may attend!! All usual school
rules apply during dances! This especially refers to the student dress code,
gum chewing, use of tobacco and school appropriate conduct.
Students must remove their outside wear as soon as they enter the school and
place them in the designated area. They may not return to their coat or any
items, such as comb, money, etc. When they deposit their outside wear it is not
to be accessed until they are ready to leave for the evening.
Students will not be permitted in the locker area of the hall between the
main lobby of the Middle School and the cafeteria, even if their school assigned
locker is in that area.
No food and/or drink is permitted other than in the lobby. Students may not
take these items into any other areas of the school or down the hall near the
restrooms. Waste is to be deposited in the appropriate receptacles (aluminum
cans in recycling bins).
Students are to use the all toward the art and home economics classrooms
only as far as the entrance to the restrooms.
Students who choose to leave the dance must get their outside wear, sign out
with name and time of departure and leave the building and the immediate
premises of the Middle School immediately. They are not permitted to return to
the dance. Loitering in the vestibule, on the front sidewalk in the parking lot
area is not permitted.
Only soft-soled shoes such as sneakers (no boots), should be worn on the gym
floor.
The Board of Education recognizes that each student's mode
of dress and grooming is a manifestation of personal style and individual
preference. The Board will not interfere with the rights of students and their
parents to make decisions regarding appearance except when those choices
definitely interfere with the proper processes of education and the demeanor of
the classroom and/or the health or safety of themselves or others.
The Board authorizes the administration to enforce school regulations
prohibiting student dress or grooming practices which interfere with the
educational process, are a distraction to the learning environment, present a
health or safety hazard, cause wear or damage to school property, or restrict
the student's vision or movement.
The school shall provide for the development of habits and attitudes
conducive to generally acceptable wearing apparel and good grooming. If a
student's appearance is considered inappropriate, the home will be contacted.
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Clothing must be clean and in good repair. Frayed clothing or clothing with holes may not be acceptable school attire.
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Extreme styles, including unusually short skirts (dresses) or noticeable tight clothing, may not be acceptable.
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Hats or other headwear may not be worn inside the building.
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Shoes should be worn at all times. Thongs, flip-flops and open-toed shoes are inappropriate school footwear.
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Garments imprinted with logos advertising items such as beer, drugs, and cigarettes are not appropriate.
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Clothing, buttons, or other insignia which are intended to mock, ridicule, or otherwise deliberately demean or provoke others because of race, religion, national origin, or individual views are not appropriate.
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Garments which contain offensive words profanity. or provocative pictures are not appropriate.
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Bare midriff, see-through garments, mesh tops, lo-cut blouses, tank tops, and cut-offs are prohibited. The material from the top garment must touch the material fro the bottom garment at all times.
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Garments with metal, plastic, or other materials which damage school property, will not be permitted.
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Coats and jackets designed for outdoor wear are not to be worn in school buildings during the school day.
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Short are permissible school attire prior to October 1 and beginning May 1. the minimum length of shorts will be determined by the arm length rule. When a student is standing erect with arms at sides, fingertips must be touching the bottom of the shorts. Shorts must not be any shorter and may not be form fitting.
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Non-prescription sunglasses may not be worn in the building, except as required for documented medical reasons.
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Hairdos, beards, mustaches, and sideburns should be trim, neat, and clean.
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Students with hair below collar length may be asked to provide an appropriate hair restraint and/or covering for gym, athletic contests, shops and laboratories.
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Unnaturally colored hair sprays or colored dyes for the hair are not appropriate for school. Also inappropriate are face painting and writing on the hands, arms, etc.
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Heavy metal chains, dog chains or wallets on chains are prohibited.
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The faculty and/or administration may question a student's dress (not specifically covered in these guidelines) and take necessary action to conform such student's dress to this policy.
The following items are considered inappropriate items to be carried at Middle School and will be confiscated. If confiscated the items will be held in the Middle School Office. Items such as portable AM/FM radios, tape or CD players, cameras, or collectable items may interfere with the educational process and are not permitted to be brought to school without prior approval from the principal. Law prohibits students from bringing laser pointers, cell phones, pagers and similar devices to school.
Such a search may be conducted to protect the health,
welfare, and safety of the student (s) and the educational process. Such
searches will be conducted by the principal or his/her designee.
If any search should reveal items which are controlled and/or illegal, the
police will be consulted, and criminal charges may result.
The committee of the St. Mary's Area School District has
categorized most discipline problems into the following areas. Also included
are suggested responses and procedures to assist those responsible for
recognizing discipline problems and providing corrective measures.
This discipline policy is to be utilized by administrators and staff. In
the event of serious circumstances or multiple offenses it may be necessary to
deviate from the stated policy.
Additions to the misconduct listing may be made by the Board of Education
and/or school administrators to insure an orderly and safe system.
School rules are considered in effect until waived. Students have the
responsibility to familiarize themselves with the Students Rights and
Responsibilities Policy, the Student Conduct Code, and the rules, regulations,
and guidelines contained the student handbooks.
Student Responsibilities & Rules
Student responsibilities include school attendance, conscientious effort in classroom work and conformance to school rules. It is expected that the student will share with the administration and faculty the responsibility to develop climate within the school that is conducive to learning. No student has the right to interfere with the education of his/her fellow students. It is the responsibility of each student to respect the rights of teachers, students, administrators and all others who are involved in the educational process.
Students will express their ideas and opinions in a
respectful manner.
Students will be aware of all rules and behave in compliance with them.
Students will groom themselves as to meet standards of health and safety.
Students will assist the school staff in operating a safe and positive
school environment.
Students will be aware of and comply with state and local laws.
Students will exercise proper care when using public facilities and
equipment.
Students will take all necessary arrangements for making up work when absent
from school.
Students' Rights & Responsibilities
Conduct Code:
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Primarily, a student attends school to learn. To create an attitude and atmosphere conducive to
learning, each student shall:
1. Learn the rules and regulations in effect.
2. Comply with school rules and regulations and with local, state, and federal laws.
3. Meet all school obligations punctually and regularly.
4. Report to each class with completed assignments and necessary materials.
5. Become aware of and pursue grade advancement and graduation requirements.
6. Devote energies to learning, make sincere efforts to do best work.
7. Develop standards of personal conduct which produce acceptable behavior, act in an orderly
manner.
8. Accept responsibility for his/her actions.
9. Recognize and respond positively to authority of school personnel, assist staff in conducting an
orderly school
10. Respect and consider the personal property rights of others.
11. Help to keep school property free from damage and defacement.
12. Volunteer information concerning the health and safety of the school community. -
Correcting and/or disciplining of students will result from actions of misconduct categorized below.
1. Attendance
a. Violation of compulsory school laws.
b. Failure to attend school regularly if beyond compulsory school age (17 years).
c. Repeated tardiness or absence without cause.
d. Tardiness to or skipping classes.
2. Citizenship
a. Violation of state laws, local ordinances, approved fire safety codes, school rules and
regulations.
b. Disobedience, including insubordination and defiance.
c. Gross misbehavior, including deliberate, malicious or willful misconduct.
d. Use of profanity, obscenities, or degrading epithets.
e. Immoral conduct and/or indecently.
f. Possession, display, distribution, or sale of pornographic materials.
g. Possession, use, sale, or distribution of intoxicants, illegal or unauthorized medicine, drugs,
look-alike drugs, or narcotics including by way of illustration and not limitation: alcohol
marijuana, heroin, opium, cocaine, LSD, barbiturates, and amphetamines.
h. Possession or use of tobacco products.
i. Dress and appearance which present health or safety problems or cause disruption and/or
distraction of the educational process.
j. Distribution on school property of unapproved printed materials.
k. Fraudulently using the name of another person or falsifying times, dates, grades, residence or
other data used by the school.
l. Unlawful interference with or intimidation of students or school employees.
3. Safety
a. Disruptive behavior on school buses.
b. bodily conditions: The condition under which a student is suspected of having a
communicable disease or of neglecting personal hygiene to the point of disrupting the
educational process.
c. Threats or physical attacks to students or school employees.
d. Violence of the threat of violence.
e. The act of possessing, using, or threatening to use any weapons or instruments capable of
inflicting bodily harm.
4. Property
a. Unauthorized possession of property not one's own.
b. Being present in an unauthorized place of refusing to leave when ordered.
c. Willful destruction or defacement of property.
d. Purposefully setting fire to school property.
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The following offenses are detention offenses unless and administrator determines that they are chronic. If such a determination is made, the offenses will be treated as suspension offenses.
Offenses for Detention and Resulting Punishments:
1. Class disruption - 1-5 nights detention.
2. Out of assigned area without permission - 1-5 nights detention.
3. Safety violation - 1-5 detention.
4. Truancy (Parents unaware). 2 periods detention for each period of school missed.
5. Chronic tardiness to school or class - 1-5 nights detention.
6. Failure to follow class rules (or directions) - 1-5 nights detention.
7. Profanity directed toward students - 1-5 nights detention. -
The building administrator may, if an in-school suspension room is available within the building, assign in-school suspension instead of detention for punishment depending upon whether the offense is chronic or aggravated in nature.
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This list in Section A is not exhaustive. Any item or misbehavior not specifically covered by this list of offenses will be dealt with at the discretion of the administrator in charge.
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The discipline code is in force for students riding school buses both to and from school. In extreme cases, the student may be denied transportation to the bus.
The SMASD discipline code for Middle School is explained in the following chart which defines the consequences for each violation of the code. Each Middle School student will receive a copy. Students will be asked to discuss the code with their parents. A signed copy of the code should be returned to the school. The parents and student signatures will indicate that the parent and student have read the code.
Out-of-School
Suspension Offenses
(Normally 1 - 3 days)
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Fighting in school or within the school area (all active participants).
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Disrespectful behavior toward any member of the faculty or employee of the School District.
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Chronic class disruption or other forms of unacceptable school behavior.
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Defacing, damaging, or destroying school property: The pupil and/or parent or guardian of the pupil will be required to repair the damages or replace the item destroyed and pay all costs involved. If the damage or destruction is extensive, charges may result.
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Failure to show for detention.
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Insubordination (Failure to obey an order given by a authorized school representative).
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Stealing of school or student property. (Police will also be notified).
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Profanity directed toward adults.
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Throwing food.
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Use of any kind of tobacco product - student may also be fined.
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Failure to report to the office when directed to report there on matters relative to student conduct.
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Leaving the school without permission.
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Students may not carry or be in possession of any tobacco products.
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Students who's willful misconduct results in injury to others.
Note: Students who are chronically suspended (items A-L) may find future violations considered under the provision of Section II - Serious Suspension Offenses.
During an out-of-school suspension, a student will be
excluded from all extracurricular activities, after-school practices and
events. This same restriction may be applied to a student assigned to in-school
suspension, but this must be designated when the suspension is assigned.
The period of suspension will begin at the time indicated by the
administrator assigning the suspension and will end at the start of the school
day following the last school day of suspension. If no beginning time is
defined, suspension shall begin at the beginning of the first school day of the
suspension.
Students who are suspended and therefore not permitted to participate in
extracurricular activities (including athletics) are responsible for the
notification of the proper coach and/or sponsor of the activity. Failure, on
the part of the student, to properly notify the responsible coach or advisor
will cause the suspended student to be subject to further disciplinary action.
The administrator will contact coaches and sponsors of student activities in
reference to students who are not eligible to practice, play or participate in
student activities because of suspensions.
The following offenses will be treated as Serious Offenses
and will be handled as follows:
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The principal will investigate these offenses. If a student is guilty of one of these offenses, the punishment will fall in the 4-10 day suspension range.
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The principal may, after notifying the Superintendent, report these offenses (items 1-4) to the police.
1. Students in possession of or under the influence of items such as drugs, alcohol, or look alike
drugs.
2. Students in possession of, or using any item that can be used as, or can be classified as, a
weapon.
For the purpose of this policy, the definition of a weapon or look alike weapon shall include, but not be limited to, any knife, cutting instrument, cutting took, nun-chuck, firearm, shotgun, rifle, or any other tool, instrument of implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury.
3. Students exhibiting violence or aggressiveness toward any employee or other student of the School
District.
4. Students engaging in activities that offend local contemporary moral standards (i.e. indecent
exposure). -
Students engaging in activities that offend local contemporary moral standards (i.e. indecent exposure).
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The Superintendent, after receiving a recommendation for expulsion fro a building administrator, will review the appropriate student records to determine if an expulsion hearing before the Board of School Directors is appropriate.
During the first week of school a notice concerning pupil accident insurance will be sent home. This will cover most injuries for the duration of the school year at a nominal cost. This insurance is strictly voluntary.
Policies have been developed to protect the health and
promote the safety of the children while in school.
The following information does not describe the program in full, but is
intended, rather, to be used as a guideline.
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The school nurse in our building from 7:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
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If you are ill, request permission from the classroom teacher to go to the Health Suite. If you are unable to do so, send a friend to the main office for assistance. Unless an emergency exists, you are not permitted to go to the Nurse's Office at the change of classes. You must report to your class and request a pass from the teacher.
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A child who becomes ill in school is release into the care of the parents or parent designee as soon as possible. The school nurse makes appropriate recommendations as needed. Duration of illness is greatly shortened by early diagnosis and treatment.
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Chronic illnesses, severe allergic reaction to insect sting, or any health condition that is hazardous to the child unless controlled, should be discussed with the school nurse. IF YOUR CHILD HAS A SPECIAL HEALTH PROBLEM OR PHYSICAL HANDICAP, PLEASE INFORM THE SCHOOL NURSE AT THE BEGINNING OF THE SCHOOL TERM OR UPON IDENTIFICATION OF THE PROBLEM. This information will be kept strictly confidential, but shared with professionals who may be in contact with your child.
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School health forms should be completed during the first week of school. This form has a place for emergency phone numbers along with a place for a parent designee. Please provide us with information about a contact person in case parents are unavailable. this is usually a relative or a friend who does not live in the same household as the student.
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The school district will cooperate with parents and their physicians in giving prescription medications when these must be given during school hours. The medication should be clearly labeled with the student's name, the name of the medication, the time it is to be given, and accompanied by a written request from a parent. All medication should be brought to the Nurse's Office immediately upon entrance to school in the morning to insure proper administration. Long-term prescription medication must be accompanied by a physician's order and renewed by the physician at the beginning of each school year.
Over the counter mediation will be administered as preapproved in writing by the parent on the Information & Authorization form sent home with each student on the first day of school. These forms should be completed and returned the following day. If the form is not returned, no medication will be given.
Students are not permitted to carry medications or have medication of any kind in their possession during the school day. -
All students receive vision screening and height and weight measurement each school year. Students in 7th grade also receive scoliosis and hearing screening. Students in 6th grade are required to have a physical examination and students in 7th grade are required to have a dental examination. These exams may be done by the student's family physician or dentist at your own expense or by the school physician or dentist. If you prefer to have the exam done by your family practitioner, please contact the school nurse for the appropriate forms. A notice for follow-up care will be sent home if an abnormality is detected with any of these screenings. Families with extreme financial difficulties may be eligible for financial aid through various organizations.
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Accident Procedure: all accidents in school are reported to the school nurse. An accident report must be completed. If the nurse is not present in the building any accident is reported to the main office.
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Physical Examinations for Athletes: All students participating in competitive interscholastic sports are required by the PIAA to pass a physical examination before being permitted to practice. Arrangements for athletic examinations are made by the Athletic Director and coaches. Students are examined by the school physician. There is a charge for such exams.
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All students entering the St. Marys Area School District must have completed the stat mandated immunization requirements.
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First aid in the school is prompt emergency care limited to first aid treatment only. The school cannot assume responsibility for injuries that did not occur at school. Parents are asked to refrain from asking school personnel to treat such injuries. State law provides that the school is not responsible for accidents occurring in the school or during school activities.
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If special assistance or modification is needed in traveling about the building for health and/or safety reasons students should report to the office at the beginning of the school day on the first day of school when this is a concern. Arrangements will be made by office personnel or the nurse or such assistance.
Students are permitted to use lavatories without permission during the following times; provided they will not be late for class:
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Before school
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Between classes
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Before or after lunch
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After school
A student may use the lavatory during class time with the teacher's permission. Teachers need to identify that the student's request for the use of the restroom at other times than designated above is an emergency. if these requests are repeated the teacher and/or student should seek the assistance of the school nurse. Students may not be late for classes unless they have a pass signed by a teacher.
The Middle School has an activity period every day. Clubs
are scheduled throughout the school year and are supervised by teachers and
designed to enhance and encourage special interests. In addition to the clubs ,
we also have an intramural program for both boys and girls in homerooms.
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Instrumental Music is offered to students in all grades at the Middle School. Performing ensemble include Concert Band, Jazz Band, and Wind Ensemble. Performances include a holiday concert, spring concert and 8th grade matriculation. Other performances for the public and the community occur throughout the year. Students involved with instrumental music will be placed in a lesson group according to similar instrument and grade level. These lessons will rotate throughout the day so that a student will not miss the same academic subject every week. Students will receive a grade on the report card based on improvement of musical proficiency at lessons, rehearsals and concerts. Ensemble rehearsals take place during the activity periods. |
Early in the school year, each homeroom selects 2
representatives for Student Council. The Student Council meets periodically
throughout the school year.
The Student Council is responsible for various activities including, but not
limited to, club sign-up, open house guides, orientation guides and morning
announcements.
The officers for Student Council consist of a President, Vice-President, and
Secretary. The officers are selected from the 8th grade members of the
council.
Any student who h olds an office for any class, club or school organization
(appointed or elected) shall be removed from that office if his or her behavior
or academic work is below expectations.
Athletes and spectators should conduct themselves in a
sportsmanlike manner. Students are not permitted to roam the building during
sports events in the gymnasium.
Any student involved in interscholastic sports in the Middle School must
meet or exceed the PIAA eligibility requirements. Students must meet bi-weekly
eligibility requirements in order to participate in athletic and
extra-curricular events. Eligibility is submitted by the teachers and reviewed
by the guidance staff, Athletic Director and principal. A copy of these
requirements is available from the Athletic Director of the building principal.
Numerous special activities will be made available to all
pupils. After-school activities include sports, band, and chorus. An activity
bus is provided. Call the school for details.
Dances for Middle School students may be held as requested throughout the
year either immediately after school or evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Misbehavior or disrespect to the participants in any show, dance, or
assembly will not be tolerated. Students will be requested to leave if their
behavior does not meet with school standards.
In addition to conforming tot he Student Conduct Code, students involved
with extracurricular activities, including sports, band, chorus, dances, etc.,
must conform to the eligibility standards established by the district or
building. Student eligibility may be affected by attendance, conduct,
scholastic achievement, and approved training/membership rules.
School officials are responsible for students' behavior in school buildings
, on school property, and at school-sponsored events, on or off school
property. School officials are also responsible for the conduct of students on
school buses.
Permission For Field Trips
Student Discipline, Etc.
Students must maintain excellent discipline, attendance
and academic records in order to participate in field trips such as the eighth
grade class trip, student council trip, or school-sponsored dances. A final
determination is made as to who can participate and who can't participate based
upon the student's individual record.
Students may become ineligible to participate in field trips for excessive
absences, failure to participate in fund raising and/or if they are in serious
academic difficulty.
If a student has accumulated seven or more days of out-of-school suspension
and/or after-school detention, or the equivalent in demerits, that student is
not eligible to participate in field trips, dances, etc., even if the student
has participated in fund raising for it. If a student has participated in fund
raising for a trip and that student's record of discipline, attendance and
academics stops him from going on the trip or participating in the activity,
that students is still eligible for any prize that would normally be awarded to
any student.
If a student is determined ineligible prior to a fund raising event
culminating in a trip or activity, that student should not participate in the
fund raising.