Maranacook Community Middle School Handbook
2012/2013
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Message From the Principal & Leadership Team
September 2012
Dear Parents/Guardians and Students
Welcome to Maranacook Community Middle School. The purpose o this handbook is to provide you with information about our school. The faculty at MCMS will be reviewing the handbook with students in their advisee groups at the beginning of the school year. We also ask parents to read it and keep it on hand to use as a reference throughout the year.
We base our programs and practices on current middle level research and are proud of what we offer the young adolescents in our community. We have staff members who have helped shape the curriculum at MCMS so that it is not only based on the Common Core Standards, but also is challenging, and meets the intellectual, emotional, physical and social needs of young adolescents. We have made it our goal over the past few years to be sure that every student is showing academic, social and emotional growth and have put supports in place to assure that this happens.
We have an active parent association who has been very supportive of our practices and whom we also look to for input and feedback on our programs.
This is our final year of work toward accreditation with the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, In May of 2013, the association will be sending a visiting team to our school to observe our programs and practices. They will spend two and a half days here, meeting with a variety of folks, including parents and community members, to determine if we are meeting the middle school standards they have set forth. Following their visit, they will come to a decision as to our qualifications for accreditation. We are very excited for their visit and look forward to becoming a NEASC accredited middle school.
In order for us to continue to improve, we need feedback and input from others. We welcome open dialogue about our school and encourage you to contact us and come visit our fabulous learning environment!
Cathy Jacobs and the MCMS Leadership Team
MCMS Student Academic Expectations
Maranacook Middle School Students will be:
Critical Thinkers and Creative Problem Solvers who
- identify and define problems
- gather and analyze information
- draw conclusions and create solutions
- reflect on the results
Communicators who
- can clearly express themselves in writing
- can effectively communicate verbally
- read for understanding and purpose
- are active and engaged listeners
Technology Users who
- use technology to enhance communication
- safely access and share information on the internet
- can critically assess information available on the internet
MCMS Student Civic & Behavioral Expectations
Maranacook Middle School Students will be:
Respectful Citizens who
- demonstrate respect toward themselves through making healthy choices
- demonstrate respect toward others
- demonstrate respect toward their environment
Responsible Citizens who
- understand the importance of accepting responsibility for personal decisions and actions
- help others understand their responsibilities in a respectful manner
Global Citizens who
- recognize and understand the diverse nature of society
- know the means of achieving personal and community health and well-being
will advocate for themselves, and for others in need, in a global society
MCMS PHILOSOPHY AND MISSION
Philosophy
In order for adolescents to become caring, informed, and involved citizens, they must learn ways to: earn and show respect, develop a sense of belonging, and build a sense of personal self worth. Adolescents must also be able to solve complex problems, use technical and analytical skills, adapt to rapid changes in society, and live respectfully in an increasingly diverse culture.
Mission
The Maranacook Community Middle School will guide students to make responsible decisions and develop the knowledge, skills, and understanding which will transition them to a successful life course.
The Maranacook Community Middle School Program will support this mission by:
* offering challenging, integrated curricula that build on the basic skills needed to succeed in every day life.
* using a variety of teaching and learning approaches that meet the individual learning needs of each student.
* assessing student performance in ways that promote self-reflection and learning.
* providing for maximum flexibility in how learning opportunities are organized.
* creating policies and curricula that foster health, wellness, and safety.
* providing comprehensive guidance and support services for all students.
ADVISOR SYSTEM
Maranacook Community School is well known for its advisor system. Before entering the middle school, each incoming sixth grade student is assigned to an advisee group that is led by a faculty member. These groups of about twelve students stay together with the same advisor for their middle school years.
The advisee system reinforces strong community, student, and faculty ties and provides a support system for each student. Advisee groups meet on a daily basis for homeroom and for longer activities several times during the year. Through the advisor system, students are encouraged to:
* understand themselves and others better * identify interests, values, needs, and abilities
* acquire life skills * reinforce values of honesty, integrity, and responsibility
The advisor oversees the handling of many situations including inappropriate behavior requiring disciplinary action. In addition, the advisor is responsible for maintaining records for each advisee including schedules, progress reports, and grade sheets. Parents are encouraged to use the advisor as their channel of communication with the school.
The advisor system requires the commitment of students, parents, and staff. Advisee activities are an essential part of our school program. Regular attendance is expected.
WHOM DO I CONTACT WHEN…..?
Following is a description of whom you should contact for specific reasons. If you are unsure about whom to contact, please contact your child’s advisor for advice.
Advisor related questions/issues
1st Advisor
2nd Principal
Classroom related questions/issues
1st Classroom Teacher or Advisor
2nd Principal
Discipline
1st Advisor
2nd Behavior Specialist
3rd Principal
Special Education Services
1st Case Manager or GT Teacher
2nd Principal
3rd Special Education Director/GT Coordinator
Co-curricular/Athletics
1st Student Services Secretary
2nd Director of Student Services
Bus Routes
1st Transportation Director
Bus Discipline
1st Bus Driver
2nd Transportation Director
Health or Guidance
1st Nurse or Guidance Counselor
2nd Principal
Facility Use
1st Office Coordinator
2nd Director of Maintenance
Food Services/School Lunch
1st Director of Food Services
2nd Principal
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL:
The school is open for students to arrive after 7:30 am. If a student is arriving any earlier, s/he must have a note from the staff member the student is meeting with and from his/her parent or guardian. The parent/guardian of any student who arrives earlier than 7:30 am, without these arrangements, will be contacted by the school to discuss alternative arrangements.
STAYING AFTER SCHOOL Procedure:
A. Students may stay after school without signing in at the office only if they are playing in a sport or they are in another school-sponsored activity. Students staying after school for any other reason must have a staff sponsor watching over them for the whole time that they are on campus. They must also have a signed note from a parent. Students must sign in at the Front Office no later than noon on that day.
B. Students staying to watch a school-sponsored event (such as a soccer game) that begins no later than 3:30 need a note from home and they must sign in at the front office no later than noon of that day. They are required to have a staff sponsor up until the start of the event. The students are expected to only attend that approved activity. Students who are staying to watch events that begin after 3:30 must either follow the procedure described in "A" above or go home and return with an adult who will be responsible for their supervision during the event.
C. Students that do not follow these expectations will not be allowed to attend or participate in any after school activities until further notice.
FOOD SERVICE:
* Maranacook Food Services program operates on a debit system through PowerLunch. PowerLunch is the lunch/breakfast management portion of PowerSchool. Our web-based student information system, PowerSchool. The system helps you monitor meals sold as well as your childís account balances and transactions.
* Hot lunches are $2.50 This includes the full salad bar and choice of a milk.
* Breakfast is $1.00 and includes a choice of milk, juice, and entre of the day…see monthly calendar. Cereal is always an option.
* The cost of a separate milk is $.50
* Menus are published monthly on the Maranacook website for your meal planning convenience. The Hot Lunch Program includes an option called Offer vs Serve. Students have a choice of entrees and salad bar selections that include fresh fruit and vegetables.
* Please note: Students who qualify for reduced or free lunches will also receive a free breakfast.
* Negative lunch balance alerts will be automatically sent each Friday at 6:30 PM through the SchoolMessenger Notification System.
BUS PASS NOTICE:
Parents can send a note giving their child permission to ride a different bus and get off at a specific location but parents need to be aware that buses are crowded and anytime a bus is over capacity, students with bus passes will be asked to exit the bus. They will then have missed their regular bus home so will need to contact parents for emergency transportation arrangements.
SPORTS FREE DAY:
In order to allow our students more opportunities to participate in a variety of activities, we have designated Fridays as a Sports Free Day. No practices are scheduled on Fridays. The Director of Student Services does not schedule games or meets on that day unless absolutely necessary. Intramural activities and other clubs make every effort to meet on Sports Free Days.
BUILDING CARE AND SAFETY
In order to maintain a clean, safe learning environment, we expect students to be part of caring for their areas. In addition, there and NO "power drinks" allowed at school (clear water only). Any food in the classroom must be stored and disposed of appropriately.
Please do not post or publish photos or videos of our students online or in any other public forum out of respect for their privacy.
Middle School students are not allowed to drive motorized vehicles, such as snowmobiles, on school grounds. We also do not allow skateboards, scooters, or shoes with "wheelies".
ATTENDANCE
Parents are asked to call the school office at 685-3128, ext. 1114 to report absences. If we do not receive a phone call the morning of the absence, the absence is considered "unexcused" and an instant alert phone call automatically notify parents of the absence. If you received this automated call, please call the school office to explain the absence and the absence will be changed to "excused".
Excusable Absences from school (according to Maine Law):
*Personal Illness
*Appointment with a Health Professional
*Observance of a Religious Holiday
*Family Emergency
*Planned Absence (forms available in the office and require prior approval - these absences are recorded as "excused" and do not require a parent phone call on the day of the absence)
*Education Disruption resulting from Homelessness, Hospitalization, Foster Care Placement, or some other out-of-district placement.
It is the student’s responsibility to make up all work missed and/or make alternate arrangements with his/her teachers.
(Students must be present for the full day in order to participate in any after school activities)
for more information, SEE "TRUANCY POLICY" IN THE POLICY SECTION
STUDENT WELLNESS CENTER
The Wellness Center is available to all students and offers health care and health counseling services every day during the school year. The school nurse is available each day from 7:30 am - 3:00 pm to assist students with their needs.
Expanded services are also available through the high school student health center with Physician Assistants, Resident Physicians, and Counselors on a daily basis. Parent permission must be on file for expanded health center services. The Athletic Trainer provides services as needed.
Students who become ill at school should inform a teacher/staff member and then report to the Wellness Center. A student may be dismissed from school after the nurse has assessed the situation. The parent/guardian will be contacted for permission for the student to be dismissed and to arrange for transportation. If the student has permission on file to see the physician assistant (expanded health center services) the school nurse may refer the student to the physician assistant for further assessment and/or treatment.
Emergency information on each student must be provided annually by parents/guardians to be placed on file in the Wellness Center.
MCMS CURRICULUM
Core Studies
As noted in the mission, our goal is to offer curricula that is “challenging, integrated,” and that builds “on the basics needed to succeed in every day life.” To accomplish this goal, we use a democratic curriculum planning process. This process enables teachers to create curriculum that is based on students’ questions about themselves and the world. The teachers use Maine’s Learning Results to ensure that the content studied is challenging and meets the State standards. As the National Standards, called the Common Core, are developed we will be moving to using those standards to guide our curriculum.
The curriculum is developed into three themes for the year. These themes cross content area boundaries and provide students a cohesive, meaningful curriculum. The teachers develop scoring guides (rubrics) based on the content of each theme. The results of how students are performing are constantly shared with each student during the course of the trimester. A mid-trimester report is sent home to each parent. A second report is sent home later in the trimester if the student is in danger of not meeting the standards and agreed upon expectations.
Mathematics
MCMS has used the Connected Mathematics Program (CMP) and Prentice Hall Middle Grades Mathematics as a basis for math curriculum. Both texts are aligned with the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics curriculum standards and with the Maine Learning Results. The units focus on issues that are interesting to middle school students. They are also very enriched with algebra. In addition, the type of responses required from the students in this curriculum matches the expectations for student responses on the grade eight NECAP Assessment. Parents may want to use Math on Call when helping their children with mathematics homework. This is available at MCMS upon request. Many parents have found it to be a valuable resource!
Unified Arts & Foreign Language
All of our students are exposed to a variety of experiences “beyond the core.” These classes are designed to give students opportunities to explore areas of interest and expertise that they can continue to build on throughout their lives. We offer Art, Music, Health, Physical Education, Spanish, German and French.
Technology and Learning at MCMS
As a result of the Maine Learning Technology Initiative (MLTI), our seventh and eighth grade students have one to one use of technology. Through the commitment of our district, our sixth graders now have one to one access as well. The technology integration specialist works with teachers and students supporting them in the integration of technology into the classroom. Students are able to take home their computers after parents have attended a required informational meeting regarding the care and use of the laptops in a home environment.
CO-CURRICULAR OFFERINGS & STUDENT LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
In keeping with our philosophy of helping our students "to become caring, informed and involved citizens", we offer many opportunities for students "to earn and show respect, develop a sense of belonging, and build a sense of self worth" through our co-curricular programs. Currently we offer the following:
Band Chorus Yearbook Committee Nutrition Committee Climate Committee Musicals USA Group Math Team
Sports Teams available to all students: Alpine Skiing Cross Country Nordic Skiing Track & Field\
Sports Teams that require a tryout session to "make" the team: Baseball Basketball Field Hockey Football Soccer Softball
(Football has one team that includes 7th & 8th grades - other tryout sports have a 7th & 8th grade team and if not enough players tryout, 6th graders may try out for the 7th grade team and 7th graders can move up to the 8th grade team as space allows.)
CO-CURRICULAR ELIGIBILITY STANDARDS
Maranacook Community Middle School co-curricular eligibility standards are designed to be proactive in determining how a student is performing academically and to increase the lines of communication between the school and the home. By taking a proactive stance, our hope is to identify, at an early date, those students who are having academic troubles and to provide ample time and opportunity for academic support.
In order to participate in co-curricular activities, students must:
* Have had a physical within the past two years, which is on file in our Wellness Center;
* Have proof of insurance;
* Have turned in a signed co-curricular contract;
* Be in good academic standing.
Any time a student is failing a class, s/he will be placed on probation for two weeks. During the two week probationary period, the student will be expected to attend all games, meetings, and practices, but will not be allowed to play in any games. If the student is failing more than one class, s/he will not be able to practice or play with the team for the two- week probationary period.
If, after two weeks probationary period, the student is still failing the same class(es), s/he will be under academic suspension, where the student is expected to attend make up sessions with his/her academic teachers. The student will not participate in any games, meetings, or practices.
If, after the two weeks academic suspension, the student is still failing the same class(es), s/he will remain ineligible to play until progress reports or grades are issued.
For "Eligibility Check Dates" (and more information), see co-curricular handbook which is available in the office.
GRADE EQUIVALENTS
A+ 97-100 A 93-96 A- 90-92
B+ 87-89 B 83-86 B- 80-82
C+ 77-79 C 73-76 C- 70-72
D+ 68-69 D 65-67 NC 0-64 (no credit)
High Honors is A- or better in all courses Honors is B- or better in all courses Honor Roll is posted after each trimester on school bulletin board outside the office and in the Kennebec Journal.
GRADING DATES FOR 2012-2013
Trimester 1 August 30-November 30
Progress Reports mailed October 16
Warning Notices mailed November 6
Tri 1 Grades mailed December 10
Trimester 2 December 3-March 14
Progress Reports mailed January 23
Warning Notices mailed February 12
Tri 2 Grades mailed March 26
Trimester 3 March 18-June 14
Progress Reports mailed May 7
Warning Notices mailed May 24
Tri 3 Grades mailed June 14
Quint #1 August 30-October 19
Quint #2 Oct 22-December 14
Quint #3 December 17-March 1
Quint #4 March 4-April 26
Quint #5 April 29-June 14
Code of Academic Integrity
The excellence and high scholastic achievement we expect students to pursue rests on the foundation of academic honesty. Students are expected to conduct themselves according to the highest standards of personal honor and accountability. All students have a responsibility to do their own work on all assignments in order to receive maximum benefit from the instructional program. In cases where academic dishonesty (plagiarism or cheating) is suspected, the staff member will confiscate the material in question and meet with the student, advisor and parents to discuss the concern. Further incidents will be reported on a written Incident Report with appropriate disciplinary action.
STUDENT CONDUCT
Maranacook students are extended meaningful and appropriate freedoms, which must be balanced with personal responsibility. Students are expected to behave in school and at school functions in a manner that will be a credit to themselves and to the school. It is the school’s philosophy to work out difficulties between those involved and to provide opportunities for growth and change. There are some behaviors that are considered the most serious and automatically result in a suspension or expulsion, which includes but are not limited to:
1. Possession or use of drugs/alcohol/tobacco products;
2. Outright violation of school rules so as to hurt others, including possession of dangerous weapons or objects meant to intimidate, scare, pressure, or harass (See Weapons Policy);
3. Physical or verbal acts or threats of violence against people or property, including but not limited to pushing, shoving, hitting, and punching;
4. Swearing or vulgar gestures such as flipping someone off;
5. Physical, verbal, or sexual harassment.
In addition, the following are examples of unacceptable behavior that have disciplinary consequences as outlined in our behavior rubric:
*cheating or plagiarism (copying someone else;s work and using it);
*inappropriate language or gestures including swearing, name calling, making fun of someone, flipping someone off, and put downs;
*skipping or being late to class or homeroom;
*showing affection that is not suitable for a school environment, such as making out in the halls;
*showing disrespect to others;
*having a radio, beeper, CD player, electronic games, Walkman, or any other electronic device at school unless approved by the Principal for a specific reason;
*wearing inappropriate clothing/accessories that exhibit inappropriate language/messages about tobacco or chemical substances, clothing that reveals any private anatomy, or clothing/accessories that have any sharp objects;
*having a skateboard or scooter on school property; (students who must bring one to school for after school/off school property use, must leave it in the office and pick it up upon dismissal)
*vandalism, including writing on the walls and destroying school or other people's property.
DRESS CODE
Students and staff at Maranacook Middle School are expected to dress in a manner that does not detract from the learning environment. Unacceptable dress includes, but is not limited to:
*clothing/accessories that exhibit inappropriate language/messages about tobacco /chemical substances, hate messages or sexual innuendo;
*clothing that reveals any private anatomy;
*clothing/accessories that have any sharp objects;
*shorts/dresses/skirts that are shorter than mid thigh length;
*wearing spaghetti straps or any straps that are less than 1.5 inches wide;
*undergarments that are showing;
*not wearing footwear;
*violating the "B" Rule (The "B" Rule includes, but is not limited to, no showing of Breasts, Butts, Bottoms, Bellies, Backs, Boxers, Bras, etc.)
If any article of clothing offends someone, the student will be asked to change. The student may be asked to turn an inappropriate article of clothing inside out. The student may be asked to call home for a change of clothing. Repeated offenses will result in a parent notification of a discipline meeting with the Principal & Advisor - this meeting will result in appropriate consequences which may include in-house suspension.
BEHAVIOR RUBRICS
NON PEER TO PEER BEHAVIOR RUBRIC:
Behavior |
Level 1 |
Level 2 |
Level 3 |
Cheating or Plagiarism |
Staff meets with student, advisor & parent. |
Staff writes up incident; student meets with parent, behavior teacher, advisor, researches plagiarism, re-does assignment. |
In-house suspension; behavior teacher and student develop plan; student completes plagiarism project; zero on assignment. |
Chewing Gum |
Staff asks student to throw gum away |
Staff asks student to throw gum away; has student perform a community service task, if on team; If not on team, advisor notified and helps to set up community service task. |
Refer to behavior teacher; write up; student calls parent & works with custodial staff; further incident will be in-house suspension. |
Disruptive classroom or cafeteria behavior |
Staff addresses behavior and student is sent out of class/cafeteria. |
Staff meets with student, advisor, and/or parent to address the behavior and student is sent out of class/cafeteria. |
Staff meets with behavior teacher, student, advisor, parent to develop a plan that may include an intervention from the alternative ed program and student is sent out of class/cafeteria. |
Inappropriate language, swearing or vulgar gestures |
Staff addresses the behavior |
Write up, meet with advisor, behavior teacher, restitution to victim determined to “make it right”. |
In-house suspension; advisor, behavior teacher, student develop individual plan which may include working with guidance, social worker, alternative ed teacher. |
Skipping or being late to class or homeroom |
Staff addresses the behavior and decides on consequence. |
Write up, meet withadvisor,m behavior teacher, staff member, call parents. |
In-house suspension; advisor, behavior teacher, student develop individual plan which may include working with guidance, social worker, alternative ed teacher. |
Showing affection that is not suitable for a school environment |
Verbal warning by staff member that witnesses behavior; notify advisor. |
Write up, call parents, notify advisor, referral to guidance. |
In-house suspension; advisor, behavior teacher, student develop individual plan which may include intervention by guidance, social worker, alternative ed teacher. |
Having a radio, beeper, CD player, Ipod, electronic games, Walkman, or any other electronic device at school |
Device is taken away & turned over to principal; student may retrieve the device at the end of the day upon dismissal. |
Device is taken away & turned over to principal; student may retrieve the device at the end of one week upon dismissal. |
Device is taken away & turned over to principal; parent must retrieve the device. |
Wearing inappropriate clothing/accessories. |
Staff addresses it; student changes; advisor is notified. |
Staff addresses it; notifies advisor; student changes and calls parent. |
Refer to behavior teacher; student changes; calls parent; in-house suspension; advisor involved and referral may be made to guidance or alternative ed teacher. |
Having a skateboard, scooter or heelie shoes on school property |
Item is taken away & turned over to behavior teacher; student may retrieve the item at the end of the day upon dismissal. |
Item is taken away & turned over to behavior teacher; student may retrieve the item at the end of one week upon dismissal. |
Item is taken away & turned over to behavior teacher; parent must retrieve the item; further incidents may result in a suspension with referral for behavioral support through alternative ed. |
Vandalism including writing on the walls / destroying school or otherís property |
Refer to behavior teacher; write up; call parents; work with custodian one period; pay restitution. |
Refer to behavior teacher; write up; call parents; work with custodian; In-house suspension; pay restitution. |
Refer to behavior teacher; write up; call parents; In-house suspension; community service; behavior plan implemented; pay restitution. |
Stealing |
Refer to behavior teacher; write up; call parents; notify advisor; pay restitution; police may be notified. |
Refer to behavior teacher; write up; call parents; notify advisor; In-house suspension; pay restitution; police notified. |
Refer to behavior teacher; write up; call parents; notify advisor; mtg with parents, student, advisor to develop a plan which may involve intervention by alternative ed teacher and/or law enforcement. |
Having a cell phone at school |
Phone confiscated and held by staff until end of the day (if student does not have a cell phone permission form on file and signed by parent, the parent will be asked to pick up the phone and sign a cell phone permission form. |
Phone is confiscated and turned over to principal; parent must pick up the phone. |
Phone is confiscated; parent must pick up phone from school; One day of in-house suspension; student develops a plan around cell phone use. |
AUP violation |
Non-educational use; staff addresses the behavior. |
Repeated violations will require investigation; obvious use of someone elseís laptop=2 week loss of computer & writeup to behavior teacher. |
Major violation such as but not limited to filter bypass, scripts, intentional damage, severe damage, password violations=writeup to behavior teacher. |
PEER TO PEER BEHAVIOR RUBRIC
Behavior |
Level 1 |
Level 2 |
Level 3 |
Swearing / inappropriate gestures |
Staff addresses the behavior |
Referred to behavior teacher; student calls parent; In-house suspension for remainder of day. |
Referred to behavior teacher; parent notified; In-house suspension; student develops plan to change behavior and “make it-right” |
Showing disrespect; (name calling, making fun of someone,put downs, laughing at others, excluding others, being mean, rumors, throwing food, etc.) |
Staff addresses the behavior |
Referred to behavior teacher; student calls parent; student develops a plan to “make it right” |
Referred to behavior teacher; In-house suspension; student develops an individual plan to change behavior and “make-it-right”; further incidents may be considered acts of harassment and be referred to school affirmative action officer. |
Vandalism to peerís property |
Referred to behavior teacher; call parent; pay restitution |
Referred to behavior teacher; call parent; In-house suspension; student develops individual plan; pay restitution |
Parent called; student sent home; In-house suspension upon return; police notified |
Aggressive physical/verbal acts for threats against other students or property where there is a potential for harm such as pushing, shoving, hitting, punching, etc. |
Referred to behavior teacher; parent called; In-house suspension until principal & behavior teacher determine it is OK to return to classes |
Referred to behavior teacher; parent called; student sent home; In-house suspension upon return; police may be notified |
Referred to behavior teacher; parent called; student sent home for 2 to 3 days; In-house suspension upon return; student develops an individual plan; police notified; supertintendent notified |
Harassment, as defined by Maine law (verbal examples include fag, retard, gay, etc.; sexual or physical harassment. |
Referred to behavior teacher; parent called; student provided in-depth education around the law |
Referred to Principal; student meets with Affirmative Action Officer; parent called; In-house suspension; focus on harassment education and how to “make it right”; police notified |
Referred to principal; In-house suspension; student develops individual plan; Affirmative Action Officer meets with parent, student, superintendent, to determine plan of action; student may be recommended for explusion. |
*In-house suspension means student is isolated from general school population for duration of the suspension. She/he will work on a plan to improve the offending behavior.
Teachers will provide classroom assignments. Length of In-house suspension will depend on level of learning that has taken place during the time served.
At MCMS we will have a RESPECTFUL, RESPONSIBLE AND SAFE school by adhering to the following expectations:
In our CLASSROOMS we will:
- Use appropriate, neutral language
- Have assignments and materials ready
- Pick up after ourselves and others
- Keep hands and feet to ourselves
- Follow directions
- Use materials appropriately
- Be on time
- Focus on self (FOS)
At MCMS we will have a RESPECTFUL, RESPONSIBLE AND SAFE school by adhering to the following expectations:
During ADVISEE time we will:
- Arrive on time
- Stay in the advisee room until dismissal time
- Be quiet and listen during announcements and attendance
- Actively participate in advisee activities
- Respect individual differences
- Use appropriate, neutral language
- Focus on self (FOS)
At MCMS we will have a RESPECTFUL, RESPONSIBLE AND SAFE school by adhering to the following expectations:
In the BATHROOM we will:
At MCMS we will have a RESPECTFUL, RESPONSIBLE AND SAFE school by adhering to the following expectations:
In the HALLWAYS we will:
- Keep to the right
- Use appropriate, neutral language
- Go directly to our destination
- Use a Hall Pass
- Keep hands, feet, body and objects to ourselves
- Focus on self (FOS)
At MCMS we will have a RESPECTFUL, RESPONSIBLE AND SAFE school by adhering to the following expectations:
During ASSEMBLIES we will:
- Be seated in the designated area
- Watch & Listen
- Be respectful and attentive
- Focus on self (FOS)
At MCMS we will have a RESPECTFUL, RESPONSIBLE & SAFE school by adhering to the following expectations:
In the MEDIA CENTER we will:
- Use a 12 inch voice
- Arrive with a pass, assignments and materials
- Sign In
- Follow directions
- Use appropriate, neutral language
- Focus on self (FOS)
At MCMS we will have a RESPECTFUL, RESPONSIBLE & SAFE school by adhering to the following expectations:
In the CAFETERIA we will:
- Enter the cafeteria quietly and be seated at at table
- Respect personal space and other peopleís food by not touching what isnít yours (Focus on Self)
Sit 8 people at round tables and 16 at rectangular tables
Keep our area clean
Take care of our trash when finished eating
Wait for permission to go get our lunch
Use 12 inch voices
Use appropriate, neutral language
Remain at the same table during lunch
Wait for permission to leave the cafeteria
At MCMS we will have a RESPECTFUL, RESPONSIBLE & SAFE school by adhering to the following expectations:
On the BUS we will:
- If changing transportation plans, get a buss pass from the office when we walk through the door in the morning
- Walk to the bus
- After 1st bell, go directly to the bus
- Follow bus rules
- Use appropriate, neutral language
- Focus on self (FOS)
REGIONAL SCHOOL UNIT NO. 38 BUSING
The School Bus is an extension of the classroom, and riding the school bus is a privilege. While on the bus, students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with established guidelines for student behavior. The bus driver is responsible for the safety and well being for all who ride the bus and, and in this regard, students are expected to comply with his/her requests at all times.
The following guidelines have been established for the safety of all who ride the bus. Violation of these guidelines may result in the loss of privilege to ride the bus.
All students are assigned to a bus and should ride that bus to and from school unless the Transportation Department has been advised of other circumstances.
BEFORE RIDING THE BUS
- All students should be at his/her bus stop at least five minutes before the scheduled arrival of the bus.
- Students should stay out of the road at all times while waiting for the bus.
- Students should wait for the bus to stop completely and let the door open before
moving to load the bus.
- If it is necessary to cross the road to board the bus, wait until the bus driver signals it
is safe to cross. Students must stay 12 feet in front of the bus at all times when crossing in the road.
RIDING THE BUS
- When students exit school, they should go directly to their assigned bus, load immediately, and remain on the bus unless given permission to exit by the driver.
- Students must obey the driver at all times. This is necessary to insure the safety of all students. Students are not to engage the bus driver in a discussion or argument with respect to the driverís expectations or directions. Drivers are expected to be on time and to maintain safety at all times. Therefore, students who challenge the bus driverís decisions or argue with the bus driver will be dealt with in a serious manner.
- Students shall go directly to their seats without crowding or pushing and remain seated while the bus is in motion. Students are expected to remain seated and should not change seats unless given permission by the bus driver.
- Students shall not throw anything out the windows; extend arms, legs, head or feet out of the bus at any time. Students should face forward while the bus is in motion to avoid injury should the bus make a quick and/or unexpected stop.
- Students shall not damage any part of the bus. Payment for damage is the responsibility of the student/parent.
- Students shall not create any safety hazard by tampering with fire extinguishers, emergency exits, or loosening seats.
- Students shall not create a disturbance on the bus which may distract the driver. Those actions include, but are not limited to: shouting, gesturing, standing, spitting, throwing objects in or from the bus, etc.
- The aisles must be clear at all times. Store backpacks, school bags, musical instruments, and other large objects under the seat, on the lap or as otherwise directed by the driver. All athletic equipment must be secured in a container or travel bag.
- Littering on the bus is prohibited. It is the responsibility of all students to dispose of litter properly.
- Due to the risk of choking, the consumption of food on regular bus runs is not allowed.
- The use of glass containers is prohibited for safety reasons.
- No animals, dead or alive, are permitted on the bus.
- Alcohol, tobacco, drugs, or other substances which are in violation of Maine State
Law are prohibited on the bus.
- No weapons, ammunition, fireworks of any kind, flares, explosives, knives, or other
materials which may cause injury are allowed on the bus.
- Physical abuse or harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
- Verbal or emotional harassment of any kind will not be tolerated.
- Due to allergic reactions, students must refrain from spraying perfumes, deodorant,
hair spray, etc. on the bus.
- Cell phones or cameras will not be used for any purpose on the school bus unless the
student has received permission from the bus driver.
- Students may use I-pads and I-pods responsibly while riding the bus; however,
earbuds/headsets or devices may not be shared across the aisle. Students getting on or off the bus must remove one earbud or headset in order to listen for directions. These devices are personal property. The school is not responsible for loss, theft, or damage. Should safety issues arise with the use of any device, the driver has the authority to ask the student to discontinue use.
- Each student is assigned a seat on the bus and must sit in that seat until driver has assigned a different seat. Students are responsible for that particular seat.
LEAVING THE BUS
- Students must remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop and the door is opened.
- When it is necessary to cross the road after leaving the bus, cross at least 12 feet in front of the bus, but only after the driver has given the signal to do so.
- Students who are not crossing the road shall move a safe distance away from the bus and remain there until it has left the area.
- Due to school liability, students shall not be permitted to leave the bus at places other than their regular bus stop unless proper written authorization has been given in advance by the parent and/or school official.
INAPPROPRIATE BUS BEHAVIOR
The following procedure for dealing with bus conduct is followed throughout Regional School Unit #38 (RSU #38). The procedure emphasizes the need to have appropriate behavior on the bus that insures the safety for all children.
STEP ONE: ñ Written Warning Report: These warnings are issued by the bus driver to the student when verbal warnings have not been successful. The purpose is to communicate to the student that his/her behavior is a concern. Specific disciplinary action may not be taken at this time, depending on the incident. Parents will be notified by phone. The white copy of the warning will be sent home with the student, to be signed by the parent and returned to the bus driver the next school day. A copy of the warning will be given to each administrator and put on file.
STEP TWO: First Bus Conduct Report: This reports inappropriate action by a student to the administrator. The administrator will meet with the student, along with the transportation supervisor, to discuss the problem. The parent will be notified by phone and a copy of the report will be sent home. Consequences will vary depending on the incident.
STEP THREE: Second Bus Conduct Report: With the second bus conduct report, the student is automatically suspended from the bus for a period not to exceed two weeks. Additionally, a meeting must be held with the administrator, parent(s), student, transportation supervisor, and the bus driver before the student can return to the bus. This suspension includes all buses of RSU #38, which covers all sports and field trips.
STEP FOUR: Third Bus Conduct Report: This is the final step. A student receiving a third bus conduct report will be suspended from all RSU #38 buses for the remainder of the school year. Administrators will notify parents in writing and by phone when this occurs. This suspension includes all buses of RSU #38, which covers all sports and field trips.
Severe violation of the guidelines for school bus safety could result in the suspension of bus riding privileges at any time. Questions concerning this procedure can be addressed to the building administrator.
BEHAVIORAL GUIDELINES:
In an effort to provide all students, staff and families at MCMS a respectful, responsible and safe learning environment, we have developed a set of behavioral guidelines for our students.
Please review the Behavior Rubrics as well as the specific descriptions of expected student behavior on the previous pages.
It is important that you and your child review these guidelines and understand your roles in implementing them. Advisors will also go over these in advisee groups to help students become familiar with the expectations.
After you have gone over these, please sign the bottom of this page and send it back to school with your child.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call Cathy Jacobs, Principal at 685-3128, ext. 1128.
We have read and discussed this Student Handbook including Behavioral Guidelines & Busing Procedures and agree to abide by them.
My child(ren) and I have read and reviewed the 2012/2013 Student Handbook, Behavioral Guidelines & Busing Procedures.
REGIONAL SCHOOL UNIT NO. 38
Student Use of Cellular Telephones and Other Electronic Devices
The Regional School Unit No. 38 recognizes that many students possess cellular telephones and other electronic devices. ~These devices may not be used in any manner that disrupts the educational process or violates Board policies or school rules. ~Regional School Unit No. 38 is not responsible for damage, loss or theft of such devices. ~The Superintendent is authorized to develop, with input from administrators, any school rules necessary to implement this policy.
Adopted by RSU No. 38 Board of Directors: April 27, 2009
JFCK-R
REGIONAL SCHOOL UNIT NO. 38
Student Use of Cellular Telephones and Other Electronic Devices Procedures
1. Students are prohibited from using privately-owned electronic devices, including but not limited to cellular telephones, Blackberries, handheld computers, MP3 players, and electronic games during classes and school activities, including study halls, field trips, and extracurricular activities.
- During classes and school activities, all such devices must be turned off.
- The only exception to this rule is when a teacher specifically authorizes students to use such personal devices for a specific purpose (such as entering an assignment in a PDA).
- If this rule is violated, the teacher will immediately confiscate the device for the remainder of the day, and discipline may be imposed as provided below.
2. Students at the high school level may use electronic devices between class periods and during lunch periods in the designated “cell phone zone.” ~Cellular telephones must be kept on “vibrate” mode to avoid disrupting others. ~Students at the elementary and middle level are encouraged to not bring electronic devices to school. If they have them at school, they must be turned off and brought to the office, kept in a book bag, or placed in a locker depending on individual school rule.
3. The use of cameras, including camera phones, is strictly prohibited in locker rooms, restrooms, and classrooms. ~In other school locations, students are required to obtain permission before photographing any individual.
4. Any use of cellular telephones and other electronic devices that violates Board policy, administrative procedure, or school rules is strictly prohibited. ~This includes, but is not limited to violations of the Student Code of Conduct, harassment, and cheating. ~Such devices may be subject to search if there is reasonable suspicion that a student is violating Board policies, procedures or school rules, or engaging in other misconduct.
5. Students violating these rules will be subject to discipline, which may include:
- Exclusion of the device from school for an extended period.
- Sanctions ranging from detention to expulsion from school depending upon the nature of the offense and the studentís disciplinary record.
6. The school unit is not responsible for damage, loss, or theft of any privately owned electronic devices.
IF YOU DESIRE THAT YOUR CHILD HAS A CELL PHONE AT SCHOOL, PLEASE REVIEW THE ABOVE POLICY & PROCEDURE WITH YOUR CHILD, SIGN FORM (AVAILABLE IN THE OFFICE) AND RETURN TO OFFICE
IMPORTANT DISTRICT POLICIES
| 
