TEACHER INFORMATION
MS. WILLIS
I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Teaching Social Science
from Humboldt State University in the beautiful
redwoods of northern California and a Master of
Science in Curriculum and Instruction from Western
Governors University.
I have three amazing kids and two energetic puppies!
They are the joy of my life. 
I truly enjoy teaching and working with young people.
The focus of my classroom is student learning. I take a
multi-dimensional approach to lesson structure
incorporating lecture, class discussion, projects,
reading, and writing. I am very open to student and
parent feedback. I can be reached at 480-472-3084 or
by email at mlwillis@mpsaz.org and will return all
messages within one business day.
COURSE DESCRIPTION
SS69 – Criminology & The Law
An overview of the nature of criminality including the
legal and social remediation of criminal behavior. The
emphasis will reflect the roles of the citizenry relative to
crime in a democratic society.
CLASSROOM PROCEDURES
START OF CLASS
BELL WORK
When the bell rings, be in your seat, with all electronics
turned off and put away, all materials ready, and
working on bell work.
Most days there will be a bell work assignment.
1) PLANNER: Write the daily Topic and homework
assignment from the board into your planner.
2) BELL WORK PAPER: Answer the bell work
questions.
NOTEBOOK
NOTES
PARTICIPATION
Each student is required to have a folder or binder
dedicated to this class. A complete notebook example is
available in class for student review.
Each student will be expected to take Cornell notes.
Focused note taking strategies will be cultivated in
class.
Students are expected to be actively engaged in
learning in this class. Listen respectfully, think critically,
share openly.
GRADES
LATE ASSIGNMENTS
MAKE-UP WORK
EXTRA HELP/TUTORING
BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS
PARENT INVOLVEMENT
Grades are updated weekly. They will be based on
participation, bell work, class assignments, tests, and
the semester research project. There will be NO
surprises. You will know what you will be graded on, the
grading scale, due dates, test dates and content. Final
Exams are scheduled for December 17 & 18, 2015.
Assignments are due on the due date specified. Due
dates and test dates are posted in the classroom. Late
assignments receive a 25% reduction in credit.
You have the number of days you were absent to make
up missing assignments for full credit.
Ms. Willis is available during 2nd lunch and after school
for extra help/tutoring. Contact me to make
arrangements.
The expectations for behavior in this class are positive.
You are expected to be respectful and considerate of
yourself, your peers, and your teacher. You are
expected to follow class and school rules. If you choose
not to meet these expectations, consequences may
include a verbal warning, a conference, parental
contact, or referral to administration.
Parents are encouraged to regularly check their
student’s progress using the Mesa Public Schools online
portal located at www.mpsaz.org. Under “My MPS
Portal”, click on “Parents”. You can obtain a user name
and login from the Dobson front office. This portal
allows you to see your student’s grades and attendance
for all classes.
I send out email periodically to parents advising you of
what your student is learning and important assignment
and test due dates. In addition, you can contact me at
480-472-3084 or by email at mlwillis@mpsaz.org.