NEW RICHMOND MIDDLE SCHOOL

STUDENT HANDBOOK

2016- 2017

STUDENT NAME ______

HOMEROOM ______GRADE ______

Mailing Address:

701 East Eleventh Street

New Richmond, WI 54017

Telephones: Office - (715) 243-7472

Attendance - (715) 243-1616

MY PERSONAL SCHEDULE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Core Purpose – New Richmond School District ……………………..……………………………………………… 3

Welcome ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4

Letter from Principal

Responsibility Pledge

Regular/Early Out/Extended Homeroom Schedules

Code of Conduct ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6

Appropriate Behavior

Dress Code

Lost and Found

Sports Equipment (Skates, Skateboards, and Bikes)

Electronic Devices/Cell Phone Usage

Code of Conduct Consequences ………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7

Minor Offenses

What Happens if I Commit a Minor Offense?

Major Offenses

What Happens if I Commit a Major Offense?

What is a Detention?

What is In-School or Out-of-School Suspension?

What is Expulsion?

What is Disorderly Conduct/Insubordination?

What is Improper Language/Profanity?

Building Expectations …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 8

Lockers

Hall Passes

Telephone Messages

Student Visitors

Schedule Changes

Student Arrival/Departure

Leaving School Grounds

Plagiarism/Cheating

Attendance …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9

Absences From School

If I am Absent or Tardy From School, What Should I Do?

If I Need to Leave During the Day, What Should I Do?

If I Become Ill, What Should I Do?

What if I Know I am Going to be Absent?

When am I Tardy?

When am I Truant?

Homework Requests

Academic Policy ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 11

Honor Roll

Honor Roll Guidelines

Make-Up Work and Late Work Policies

Emergency Plans ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 12

Fire Drills and Evacuations

Tornado Warning

Lock Down Procedure

Activities ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 13

Extra-Curricular Eligibility Policy

Reward Activities

Field Trips

Dances

Support Services ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 14

Counseling and Guidance

Nutrition Services – Breakfast & Lunch

Vending Machines

Health Services …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 15

Medications

Illness

Asthmatic Students

New Richmond School Board Policies …………………………………………………………………………………… 16

Internet Use

Consequences for Violation of the Internet/Computer Network Policy

Bus Rider Rules

Harassment

Alcohol, Smoking or Drugs and Paraphernalia

Tobacco Possession and Use

Guidelines for Handling Persons Guilty of Vandalizing School Property

Possession of Weapons and/or Ammunition

Assault and Fighting

Student Suspension/Expulsion

Nondiscrimination

Student Agreement/Field Trip Permission Form …………………………..………………………………… 23

CORE PURPOSE - SCHOOL DISTRICT OF NEW RICHMOND

Inspire Every Student to Learn to His or Her Potential.

CORE VALUES

Passion, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, Learning, Excellence, & Collaboration.

WELCOME

NEW RICHMOND MIDDLE SCHOOL

“WHERE KIDS COME FIRST”

Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to the 2016–2017 school year! We look forward to working together with you to achieve your child's potential - academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. A strong partnership between home and school creates success for our NRMS students.

As we begin a new school year, students will face challenges and some difficult decisions will need to be made as we travel down the road of student learning. As we do so, we must keep "What is Best for Students" at the heart of the process.

Let me encourage you and your child to read the student agenda book because it covers procedures and policies, which are part of everyday life at NRMS. It is designed to help students organize and plan. It is also an excellent communication tool for students, parents, and teachers.

NRMS is committed to providing a safe and orderly environment for all students and staff. We look forward to working together with you as we inspire students to be resourceful, respectful, and responsible citizens!

Sincerely,

Douglas Hatch

Principal

NRMS STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY PLEDGE

I am the one and only person who has the power to decide what I will be and do.

I am in charge of my learning and my behavior.

I will accept the consequences for my decisions.

I will respect the rights of others and be a credit to myself,

my family, my school, and my community.

2016-17 MIDDLE SCHOOL

REGULAR SCHEDULE

6th grade 7th grade 8th grade

PERIOD

/

TIME

1 / 7:35 – 8:21
2 / 8:24 – 9:10
3 / 9:13 – 9:59
4 / 10:02 – 10:48
5 / Lunch 10:48 – 11:18 / 10:51 – 11:37
6 / Homeroom 11:20 – 11:34 / Lunch 11:37 – 12:07 / 11:40 – 12:26
7 / 11:37 – 12:23 / Homeroom 12:09 – 12:23 / Lunch 12:26 – 12:56
8 / 12:26 – 1:12 / Homeroom 12:58 – 1:12
9 / 1:15 – 2:01
10 / 2:04 – 2:52
EARLY OUT SCHEDULE
6th grade 7th grade 8th grade

PERIOD

/

TIME

1 / 7:35 - 8:08
2 / 8:11 – 8:44
3 / 8:47 - 9:20
4 / 9:23 – 9:56
5 / Period 7 9:59 - 10:32
6 / Period 8 10:35 – 11:08 / Period 8 10:35 – 11:08
8 / Lunch 11:08 – 11:38 / Period 9 11:11 – 11:44 / Period 9 11:11 – 11:44
9 / 11:41 – 12:14 / Lunch 11:44 – 12:14 / Period 10 11:47 – 12:20
10 / 12:17 – 12:52 / Lunch 12:20 – 12:50

EXTENDED HOMEROOM

6th grade 7th grade 8th grade

PERIOD

/

TIME

Homeroom / 7:35 – 8:17
1 / 8:20 – 9:02
2 / 9:05 – 9:47
3 / 9:50 – 10:32
5 / Lunch 10:35 – 11:05 / Period 4 10:35 – 11:17 / Period 4
4 / 11:08 – 11:50 / Lunch 11:20 – 11:50 / Period 5 11:20 – 12:02
7 / 11:53 – 12:35 / Period 5 / Lunch 12:05 – 12:35
8 / 12:38 – 1:20 / Period 6
9 / 1:23 – 2:05
10 / 2:08 – 2:52

CODE OF CONDUCT

All of the students who attend New Richmond Middle School have the right to expect that the best learning environment possible will be provided for them. No student has the right to detract from or interfere with the education of another student. The Code of Conduct is in place to protect the rights of all students and faculty to have a safe and orderly learning environment.

Appropriate Behavior

You MUST demonstrate respect for:

  • Self and Others
  • Learning Environment
  • Building

There will be no inappropriate language, public display of affection, or harassment.

Dress Code

Students shall have the right to determine their own attire. Clothing may not be unsafe, unhealthy or disruptive. No hats, headgear - including scarves and bandanas, coats, jackets, or backpacks are to be worn during the school day. Undergarments must be covered and not showing. The shoulder straps on shirts, tops, and dresses are to be at least an inch wide (no spaghetti straps). No visible stomach or bare backs. Shirts and dresses without backs or with very low cut backs are not allowed. Shorts must be appropriate length. Pictures and words on school clothes should be appropriate. No body piercing (except for ears) or body defacing.

Staff reserves the right to determine appropriate attire. Students whose attire has been determined inappropriate will be advised to change into something more acceptable. He/she will be required to store them in his/her locker during the school day. Parents may be called to get students who are unable or unwilling to comply.

Lost and Found

Lost and Found clothing articles will be donated at the end of each quarter. Students are encouraged to check the Lost and Found on a regular basis to claim their missing items. All other items (keys, purses, eye glasses, etc.) may be claimed in the office.

Sports Equipment (Skates, Skateboards, and Bikes)

In-line skates, bikes, and skateboards are to be used to and from school only. These are not to be used during the school day or on school property at any time. Bicycles/skateboards need to be parked and padlocked to the appropriate rack when you arrive at school and left there until you leave school.

Electronic Devices – Bring Your Own Technology (Board Policy 5518)

Students may bring their own technology devices (e.g. laptops, tablets, eReaders, iPads, iPods, etc.) for use in the school setting provided the device is registered. A filtered Internet connection on our “GUEST Wireless” network will be provided for student use. Students may use their technology devices to support instructional activities occurring in the classroom. Each teacher has the discretion to allow and regulate the use of personal devices in the classroom and on specific projects. Students participating in the BYOT must adhere to the Student Code of Conduct, Student Handbook, Acceptable Use Agreement (AUA), all Board policies, and the guidelines regarding BYOT.

Cell Phone Usage

  1. Cell phone use will be permitted in the commons after school.
  2. Cell phones brought into the building must be kept in the student’s primary locker.
  3. Possession or use of a cell phone during the school day is a violation.
  4. Consequences:
  • Detention
  • Parent notification
  • Phone is confiscated and placed in the office for parent(s) to pick up after school, after the detention has been served.

CODE OF CONDUCT CONSEQUENCES

Minor Offenses

  1. Lack of cooperation
  2. Excessive tardiness
  3. Left class without permission
  4. Rude, discourteous
  5. Inappropriate language
  6. Disruptive behavior
  7. Out of building without permission (possible out of school suspension)
  8. Insubordinate (possible out of school suspension)
  9. Other misbehavior

What Happens if I Commit a Minor Offense?

A detention will be issued or other appropriate interventions by staff. If repeated offense then, referral to Administration, which may include one or more of the following:

  1. Phone call to parent
  2. Parent conference
  3. Detention
  4. In-school suspension
  5. Out-of-school suspension

Major Offenses

  1. Disorderly Conduct/Insubordination
  2. Bullying (Board Policy 5517.01)
  3. Excessive inappropriate language
  4. Assault and fighting (Board Policy 5520)
  5. Tobacco possession and use (Board Policy 5512)
  6. Alcohol, smoking, drugs or paraphernalia (Board Policy 5530)
  7. Vandalism to property (Board Policy 7440)
  8. Possession of weapon and or ammunition (Board Policy 5772)
  9. Other misbehavior

What Happens if I Commit a Major Offense?

There will be an immediate referral to the Administration and parent notification. This referral may include one or more or the following:

  1. Extended detentions
  2. In-school suspension
  3. Out-of-school suspension
  4. Referral to New Richmond Police Department
  5. Court referral
  6. Expulsion from school

What is a Detention?

Detentions are time added to the school day. Detentions will be served after school. Students will notify their parents by calling or bringing home a detention slip.

Detentions must be served the week after the detention is issued. Failure to serve the detention as assigned or accumulation of excessive detention hours will result in a suspension. Students must have no outstanding detention obligations in order to participate in extra-curricular activities or participate in class or school field trips. All detentions must be served.

What is an In-School or Out-of-School Suspension?

An in or out-of-school suspension is when you are removed from the classroom and/or school for a period of time based on a violation of the Code of Conduct. Administration will determine the length of suspension following Board Policy if applicable. Suspended students shall be allowed to make up any quarterly, semester or grading period examinations missed during the suspension period. (Board Policy 5610)

What is Expulsion?

Expulsion is defined in the New Richmond School District Board Policy 5610.

What is Disorderly Conduct/Insubordination?

Disorderly conduct/insubordination is the failure to cooperate with reasonable instructions and requests given by persons in authority. These are verbal and non-verbal language and physical behaviors that are inappropriate/offensive. A show of disrespect toward a staff member or insubordination on your part will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Everyone at NRMS has the right to work, study and teach in an atmosphere of mutual respect and dignity. You have the responsibility to respect authority, feelings, physical well-being and property of all members of the school.

What is Improper Language/Profanity?

Improper language/profanity (swearing) or obscene gestures in school and/or at school activities is prohibited. If you are a chronic and/or severe offender, you may be referred to the New Richmond Police Department for disorderly conduct.

BUILDING EXPECTATIONS

Lockers

School lockers are the property of New Richmond Public Schools. At no time does the New Richmond School District relinquish its exclusive control of lockers provided for the convenience of students. Periodic general inspections of lockers may be conducted by school authorities for any reason at any time, without notice, without consent, and without a search warrant. (Board Policy 5771)

Lockers are provided by the school for the student’s convenience. The responsibility for the articles placed in the locker rests entirely with the student. The person to whom a locker is assigned will be charged for any locker damage. All lockers are to be clean, neat and presentable.

Hall Passes

A student must have a classroom pass to leave the classroom during a class period or be accompanied by a staff member. Passes will be valid as long as the student is traveling in the most direct route to the destination listed on the pass. Students without a pass may expect a consequence.

Telephone Messages

Messages received from your parent(s) will be given to you during lunch or by the end of the day.

Student Visitors

Parents and other adults with school-related business are always welcome. During the school day, visitors will check in the office to sign the register and receive a visitor’s lanyard. Guests of students must have written permission from the office and both sets of parents or guardians at least one day prior to the day of the visit. No visitors will be allowed the last week of each quarter.

Schedule Changes

Students are not allowed to drop courses for which they have registered. However, special circumstances may arise to justify a change. In such cases, students must obtain prior approval from a parent, counselor, team leader, teachers and administration. The final decision rests with building administration.

Student Arrival/Departure

Students may enter the building at 7:00 a.m. each day. Students not involved in an extra-curricular activity or under the supervision of a staff member must leave the building by 3:15 p.m. Consequences may be issued to students in violation of the above policies.

Leaving School Grounds

Students are not allowed to leave the school grounds at any time unless accompanied by a NRMS staff member, parent or guardian or family member with permission from a parent.

Plagiarism/Cheating

The acts of plagiarism, cheating, or forgery in connection with academic endeavors or school requirements are detrimental to the educational process and the standards at New Richmond Middle School. Depending on the severity, these acts will result in a detention for the behavior and the work must be redone or an alternate assignment/assessment completed.

ATTENDANCE (Board Policy 5200)

Regular attendance is the law! Skipping school is against the law and is known as truancy.

Absences from School

  1. Excused - you are absent from class or school with the knowledge and approval of parents/guardian and school officials.
  2. Unexcused/Truancy – you are absent from class or school with or without the knowledge or approval of parents/guardian and without the approval of school officials.

If I am Absent or Tardy to School, What Should I Do?

Any time you are absent or tardy from school, the office must have an absence note from home signed by your parent or guardian. You are considered unexcused unless you have this written note to the office within 3 days of absence. This is in addition to the parent calling the attendance line (715-243-1616) in the morning by 8:00 a.m. to report an absence or tardy. Upon returning to school you MUST come to the office before school starts in the morning with a note. If you arrive after 8:45 a.m. you are considered absent for the morning. If you leave before 2:42 p.m. and do not come back to school, you are considered absent for the afternoon. If you are out for sickness for more than three days, the school may request a doctor’s note.

If I Need to Leave During the Day, What Should I Do?

If you need to leave school for a non-school related reason, you MUST bring a note to the office before school begins signed by your parent or guardian stating the time of day and reason. You will be issued a pass to leave class at the time indicated and you are to show it to your classroom teacher and use as your hall pass.

If I Become ill, What Should I Do?

If you need to go home during the day because of illness you MUST first go to the health office.

Health office staff will then contact your parent.

** IMPORTANT: ANY TIME THAT YOU LEAVE SCHOOL DURING SCHOOL HOURS, A PARENT OR GUARDIAN MUST COME INTO THE MIDDLE SCHOOL OFFICE TO PICK YOU UP AND SIGN YOU OUT. YOU WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO LEAVE THE BUILDING UNTIL YOU ARE SIGNED OUT.

What if I Know I am Going to be Absent?

When you anticipate an extended absence from school of 3 or more days (other then for medical reasons), a yellow excuse card from your parents indicating the days and reason for the absence should be presented to the office. If approved, the student will be given a Planned Absence Sheet that must be signed by a middle school administrator and all of the student’s teachers and must be returned to the office before leaving.

When am I Tardy?

Classroom tardy

A student will be marked tardy if they are not in their classroom and ready to work when the bell rings. Three tardies will result in one detention.

Building tardy

A student will receive a tardy to school if they arrive after 7:35 a.m. but before 8:00 a.m. Students need to stop in the office, sign in and receive a pass to class. Three tardies will result in one detention. If students are excessively tardy to school, they will be referred to administration.

When am I Truant?

“Truant” – A pupil is absent from school for part or all of any day on which school is in session during the semester without an acceptable excuse.

The following procedure is used for student truancy issues:

1st violation: School Administrator talks with student and time is made up.

2nd violation: School Administrator and/or police liaison officer meet with student and parent.

Truancy citation issued.

3rd violation: 2nd truancy citation issued and a juvenile referral to St. Croix County.

4th violation: Parents may receive a truancy citation.

Homework Requests

Homework requests need to be left on the attendance line by 8:30 a.m. The attendance line is 715-243-1616. Requests may not be completed the same day if the 8:30 a.m. time line is not met, but are available on the middle school website. Homework can be picked up in the office between 2:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.

ACADEMIC POLICY

The middle school philosophy necessitates a grading system that provides for consistency, accountability and acceptance of responsibility by students.

The middle school grading system is built around the following criteria:

A+ 99.5 – 100% of total points possibleB83 – 87%C-70 – 72%

A 94 – 99.49 % B-80 – 82%D+68 – 69%

A- 90 – 93%C+78 – 79%D63 – 67%

B+ 88 – 89% C73 – 77%D-60 – 62% F 59% and below

I - Incompletes are given due to illness or extenuating circumstances.

P - Passing – With teacher recommendation and administrative approval, a student who experiences an extenuating circumstance but makes a substantial and consistent effort, may receive a “passing” grade.