McMath
Middle School
CHEERLEADING & MASCOT APPLICATION PACKET
Please attach to this cover sheet to the following forms and keep all other papers for
further reference. Return by Friday, February 26 to Mrs. Hauser in Room B-16, or Mrs.
Haught in the front office.
Cheerleading Code of Conduct Contract
Cheerleader Health Form
Cheerleader Questionnaire
Concussion Form
Camp Application
Payment Plan Option Form (if student makes the squad)
$15 Cash or Check made out to MMS Cheer for Cheer Clinic
Important Dates to Remember:
February 24th - Informational Parent Meeting @ MMS Library 6-7pm
February 29, March 3, 4 – Mandatory Cheer Clinic 3:30-4:30pm (Gold Gym)
March 7 – Cheer Clinic Performances 3:30-4:30pm (Gold Gym)
March 8 – Team will be posted outside room A-11 and online at 3:20pm
March 24th – Mandatory Parent Meeting @ MMS Library 6:30-7:30pm
August 3-5th – Mandatory Cheer Camp @ Harpool Middle School 8am-5pm
**Please check the MMS cheer website by going to www.dentonisd.org, McMath page, click Student Services tab,
and click Cheerleading. All information, calendars, pictures, updates, etc. will be posted here throughout the year.
There is a link on this page to YouTube where you can watch and learn our cheers. You can also follow MMS
Cheer on Twitter @MMScheerios for information.
Cheerleading Squad Application
Please circle which position you are applying for:
Cheerleader
Manager
Mascot
Candidate Information
Name: ___________________________ T-Shirt Size (YS-Adult XL)_____
Date of Birth: _________________
Names of legal guardians and relationship to
you:______________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________
Have you ever received an office referral at McMath Middle School? ________
If you answered yes, please give a brief explanation of the action that warranted to
referral or include a separate sheet of paper with explanation.
__________________________________________________________
Contact Information
Guardian:
Guardian Cell Number: ___-____-__________
Guardian Work/Home Number: ___-____-__________
Guardian Primary Email: ___________@_______________
*Please note that the coach sends out frequent emails to parents and needs an email
you check often.
Student Cell: ___-___-______
Student Email: _________________@____________________________
Emergency contact (other than primary guardian): ____-____-___________
Emergency contact name: _____________________
MCMATH MIDDLE SCHOOL
CHEERLEADING CODE OF CONDUCT
The members of the McMath Middle School cheer squad must adhere to the following articles. It must be
understood that as a member of this organization, the student becomes a representative of the Denton
ISD and of McMath Middle School and each member must maintain high moral and ethical standards.
Membership may be terminated at any time for unacceptable standards of conduct.
The Cheer Squad Code of Conduct is designed to be used as a guideline toward becoming the best you
can be. Good judgment and common sense will be used when an incident occurs (not covered
in the constitution).
Being a squad member provides for many students their first opportunity to share a common bond and a
close relationship with others. Learning what it means to work very closely with other girls/boys and
sharing in accomplishments and frustrations are all part of being a squad member. It is an honor to be
chosen as a squad member. To remain an active cheer or pep squad member, a girl/boy must maintain
passing grades, keep in good physical shape, and uphold all guidelines established in the McMath Cheer
Code of Conduct.
ARTICLE I. PURPOSE
The purpose of the McMath Middle School Cheer Squad shall be to boost the morale and spirit of the
school, to entertain audiences through cheering, to develop leadership, sportsmanship, and responsibility.
It is also the squad member’s purpose to represent McMath Middle School in a manner that will reflect
positively upon the school, as well as upon the squad whether in uniform or not. Each member agrees to
abide by the rules and regulations set forth in this constitution.
ARTICLE II. MEMBERSHIP
Section 1.
Each member must return the following forms by the posted due date.
A. Parent Permission Form: permits squad member to participate in all performances and
shows understanding of financial responsibilities.
B. Physical Form: must submit a copy of squad member’s current physical to have on file,
so coaches are informed of medical conditions.
Section 2.
The term of membership shall be recognized as the time immediately following cheerleading
tryouts through tryouts for the following year. Cheerleading is a FULL YEAR commitment.
Section 3.
Members must have a commitment to cheering, supporting athletic teams and promoting
school spirit among the student body and all organizations.
Section 4.
A member’s resignation will be accepted only after the member has a conference with the
coach and ALL financial obligations are met. All school properties must be returned in good
condition. Once dismissed from the squad, reinstatement will not be allowed.
ARTICLE III. GRADES
Section 1.
Academic Eligibility: Any member whose recorded six weeks grade average in any course
is less than 70 will be ineligible to participate in any team event during the succeeding
number of weeks as set forth by the UIL “No Pass, No Play”. To regain eligibility, a
student must have a grade of 70 or above at the 3 week period in all classes. If not,
probation will continue until the end of the six weeks period. Grades will be checked every
three weeks.
Section 2.
The second occurrence of academic ineligibility within the year may result in dismissal from
the organization. Failing two or more classes, may result in being dismissed from
the team permanently.
ARTICLE IV. SCHOOL ATTENDANCE
Section 1.
All squad members must be in regular full day attendance to participate in practice or a
scheduled activity.
Section 2.
Members will participate in all activities in which the squad is involved. This includes all
practices, performances, fund-raisers, and social activities that the squad is involved.
A student that is in athletics or other extracurricular activities may also be a cheerleader,
but please understand there will be scheduling conflicts.
Section 3.
Failure to comply with absence policies, to falsify reasons for absences or excessive
absences may result in privileges being revoked.
ARTICLE V. CHEER/PEP ATTENDANCE
Section 1.
In the event of an absence (excused or unexcused), the squad member must inform the
coach of the absence and the reason for the absence PRIOR to the absence.
Section 2.
If a squad member misses a practice of a new performance, then she/he may be removed
from that routine.
Section 3.
If a scheduling conflict arises, then exceptions may be made with prior approval from the
coach.
Section 4.
Squad members are responsible for obtaining any information that was given on the day
of the absence.
Section 5.
Schedules will be provided as early as possible, and families are expected to plan family
functions and vacations accordingly.
ARTICLE VI. PRACTICES
Section 1.
All practice sessions will be mandatory upon notification of these dates and times. Check
posted announcements and webpage weekly for updated information.
Section 2.
Members will arrive on time to practice and stay until dismissed.
Section 3.
Members must wear the specified practice attire. Hair must be pulled back and secured
from the face at all times. Jewelry/gum is not allowed in practice sessions.
Section 4.
Members should schedule tutorials, make-up tests, etc. at times that do not conflict with
practice or performance.
Section 5.
On occasion, some routines will need some additional attention. If the coach feels more
time is needed to perfect a routine, every effort will be made to notify the cheerleader of
the extra time required to polish the routine.
Section 6.
Member’s suffering from injury will be excused from practice upon receipt of written notice
from an attending physician.
ARTICLE VII. UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT
Section 1.
DO NOT make alterations to the uniforms without permission from the coach.
Section 2.
If any uniform article is lost or damaged, the cheerleader will be responsible to pay to
replace the lost item.
Section 3.
All designated uniforms, jackets, warm ups, bows, poms, megaphones, etc. are to be used
and worn by squad members only.
ARTICLE VIII. PERFORMANCES
Section 1.
Squad members will perform at scheduled athletic games or special events.
Section 2.
The coach reserves the right to pull any member from a performance due to absences, lack
of knowledge of cheers/chants/dances, poor attitude, lack of effort, or excessive demerits.
Section 3.
A uniform and equipment check will be held prior to performances. At this time the member
should be completely ready for performance. This includes uniform, hair, etc.
Section 4.
Performance Rules and Guidelines:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
Never leave the stands, field or the group without permission from coach.
Never talk or cheer when a player is injured. Cheer when they recover.
Never speak to spectators, including family, without permission from coach.
Always pay close attention to the coach and follow their instructions.
Be knowledgeable enough about the sport to be a good spectator.
ARTICLE IX. SPECIAL PERFORMANCES
Special performances will be announced by the coach and are required for each girl unless specified
otherwise by the coach. These may include, but not limited to clinics, high school football/basketball
games and other community affairs. Performances/Events will be announced as soon as possible and
each member is expected to make arrangements to participate. Try-outs may be held for these special
performances. We will also have two school pep rallies in the year where the squad will perform. The
coach reserves the right to call extra practices for these routines with every effort to notify parents and
cheerleaders in a timely manner for scheduling purposes.
ARTICLE X. GENERAL CONDUCT
Section 1.
Each squad member should be a leader within the school and should set a good example at
all times. Squad members must display appropriate behavior both in and out of school.
Section 2.
Denton Independent School District rules will be strictly applied whenever the cheerleader is
officially representing DISD, attending a school sponsored activity or a school-sponsored
trip. Each member must be aware that their conduct off-campus reflects upon the team
image and that any member who is guilty of engaging in any illegal activity will be subject
to dismissal.
Section 3.
If an incident occurs during school or off campus at another event, a member should expect
disciplinary action from the school as well as from the coach. The coach will determine
consequences for inappropriate behavior after consulting with an administrator.
Section 4.
Everyday Cheerleader Rules:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
G.
H.
I.
J.
K.
No gum or candy during practices or performances.
Be in proper attire during practices, game days, and performances.
If you do not like a decision, discuss it privately with the coach.
No public display of affection.
Gossip will not be tolerated.
Be respectful and treat others with respect.
If you do not know what is expected of you, just ask!
Inappropriate language is never allowed.
Do not complain or whine.
Insubordination will not be tolerated.
Be responsible for your own actions.
ARTICLE XI. CAPTAINS/CO-CAPTAINS
The coach will determine who will be selected as captain and co-captains for football season based on
team performance and leadership qualities. Basketball season captains will be chosen by the squad.
ARTICLE XII. PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Section 1.
Parents must give their permission for their daughter/son to fulfill all the responsibilities of
being a member of the squad.
Section 2.
Parents are encouraged to participate in various cheerleading activities and fundraisers.
Some fundraisers help defray the cost of cheer uniform and equipment.
Section 3.
Parents are required to get cheer/pep squad members to and from activities on
time. Bus transportation will NOT be provided to cheer and/or pep squads.
Section 4.
Parents must be willing to cooperate with the coach and keep her informed of dates that
might conflict with squad activities. At least 24 hours notice of scheduled conflict is
required.
ARTICLE XIII. FINANCES AND FUND-RAISING
Section 1.
Parents must be willing to meet all financial obligations for having their daughter/son as a
cheerleading member. All payments are final. No refunds. Once uniforms are custom
ordered they cannot be returned and must be paid for in full.
Section 2
Partial Fee Waiver Scholarships for camp are available. Please see your coach for further
details.
Section 3.
Each squad member will be required to buy all supplies and uniforms, unless otherwise
stated, or the school has a uniform rental program.
A. Cheer – uniform (shell and skirt), warm ups, camp wear, etc.
B. Accessories-bag, shoes, poms, socks, bows, etc.
Section 4.
All financial obligations for camp must be paid for prior to attendance at camp.
Section 5.
Turning in money:
A. All money will be turned into the coach.
B. The cheerleader’s name must be written in the memo line on each check.
C. Make all checks payable to MMS Cheer
Section 6.
Insufficient Funds: If a check is returned insufficient, we will follow D.I.S.D. policy. The
team member will be responsible for paying the amount plus an additional thirty ($30)
dollars to cover bank charges.
ARTICLE XIV. CONSTITUTIONAL CHANGES
Section 1.
The interpretation of this constitution is the sole right of the coach and administration.
Section 2.
We have the right to add or change those things which we feel must be changed for the
benefit of the squad or for the situation itself.
Section 3.
This constitution is meant to be a basic operating instrument and is not intended to cover
every operating policy.
Section 4.
The constitution is subject to change at any time due to Texas Education Agency rule
changes or with approval from the administration.
Section 5.
The coach may enforce other rules as they become necessary during the school year for the
benefit of the organization.
APPENDECIES: Each middle school is different based on populations and ability level.
Appendix A: Merit/Demerit System
may be given for any breaking of the Cheerleading Rules.
by the Cheer Coach and administrators and documented by Cheer Coach
and sometimes managers.
List of Merit and Demerits and their Given Value
MERITS
-Making posters on own time (2 merits per poster, no more than 4 per week)
-Bringing candy or goodies for players and/or coaches (2 merits per bag, no more than 4 merits per
opportunity)
-Compliments form teacher regarding behavior (2 – 4 merits per positive contact about class
behavior/work)
-Helping pick-up practice and game area (up to 3 merits per event)
-Cleaning cheer equipment or cheer closet (by appointment) (2 merits for 15 minutes of work)
-Others to be announced
Consequences for Earning Demerits
1. Squad members will be notified after earning a total of 15 demerits.
2. After earning a total of 20 demerits, the member may be placed on suspension and parents
will be contacted. Suspension requires that the cheerleader be in full uniform and sit in the
stands with the coach during at least one game or performance until demerits are made up. Game
or performance is at the discretion of the coach.
3. After earning a total of 25 demerits, a cheerleader/pep squad member may be permanently
removed from the squad. This will be a decision made by the coach and administrators.
List of Demerits and their Given Value
2 Demerits

Chewing gum at practice or game

Wearing jewelry to practice or game

Failure to bring supplies (poms, bow, warmups, megaphones, shoes, uniform, etc.)
 Failure to be in correct uniform (socks, bow,
4 Demerits
8 Demerits

Leaving practice or event without
permission
 Late pick-up from practice or event (more
than 15 minutes late)
10 Demerits

Cursing, gossiping, or spreading rumors

Lack of cooperation, respect towards the
coach, peers, other adults in authority

Inappropriate behavior while representing
the school (in or out of uniform)
undergarments, etc.)

More than 10 minutes tardy to practice or
event

Not returning paperwork, money, or failure
to comply with due dates

Public display of Affection at school or game
16 Demerits (for entire placement not per day)
6 Demerits

Teacher referral or complaint

Absence not communicated before a practice
or event

ISSC Placement and squad member may
have to sit out the next game (multiple
ISSC placements will result in removal from
squad).
Automatic Removal



AEP Placement or Illegal Activity
Smoking, drinking, or drug use
Physical altercations with peers
Appendix B: CHEER SQUAD CODE OF CONDUCT CONTRACT
My daughter/son and I have read the McMath Middle School Cheer Squad Code of
Conduct. We agree to abide by the rules and regulations stated and understand the
consequences if the rules are not followed. I understand that decisions made related to the
squad are made in the best interest of the team. If a situation arises, then I will contact the
coach privately and confidentially – not publicly - where my daughter/son is in an awkward
position. I fully understand the absentee rules, practices and performance expectations, and
financial obligations.
_______________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
_______________
Date
I will do my best as a cheerleader to always set a positive example for the McMath Middle
School student body. I plan to follow the rules set forth in the Cheer Squad Code of Conduct
and understand the consequences if I fail to adhere to the rules and regulations. I will commit
myself to attending all practices, fund-raisers, performances, and will always strive to have a
positive attitude. I will respect my coach and fellow team members at all times. I understand
this elite position of McMath Middle School is an honor and will uphold my responsibilities as a
member.
________________________________
Student Signature
_______________
Date
CHEER SQUAD CODE OF CONDUCT CONTRACT
I understand and consent to the responsibilities outlined in the District’s Student Code of
Conduct/Discipline Management Plan. I also understand and agree that my child,
______________________, shall be held accountable for the behavior and consequences
outlined in the Student Code of Conduct/Discipline Management Plan at school, and at schoolsponsored or school-related activities. This shall include school-sponsored travel and any
school-related misconduct, regardless of time or location.
Students involved in extracurricular activities are held to a higher standard of conduct.
DISD views participation in extracurricular activities as a privilege, not a right. I understand
that any student who violates the Student Code of Conduct/Discipline Management Plan shall be
subject to disciplinary action. This includes any misconduct, regardless of time or location that
would reflect upon representing DISD in an extracurricular activity. Students involved in a
major disciplinary infraction will be removed temporarily or permanently from extracurricular
activities.
______________________________________
_______________________
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date
______________________________________
______________________
Student Signature
Date
Appendix C: Middle School Stunt Guidelines
Coaches Safety: American Association Cheerleading Coaches & Administrators (AACCA) Training
Use school cheer budget to pay for ($80.00). Training good for 3 years. Attend UCA or NCA camp with
cheerleader to receive training every year. Parents sign Informed Consent and Acknowledgement
Agreement.
Basic Stunts: Stunts will be limited to 2 persons high (2 bases, back spot, and flyer, and front spot if
needed). May do stunts standing on thighs and/or shoulders. May do prep/elevator level stunts using a
post and/or one foot step in. Single leg stunts (i.e. liberty, heel stretch) at thigh and/or prep level only.
Extended two leg stunts with front and back spot.
Dismount: Dismount from shoulder level. Step off with bases holding hands of flyer, sponge, or cradle.
Must follow stunt and dismount rules. Connection to prep may be with arms using an interlocking or
overlapping grip.
Pyramids: Connection may also be with one foot to another person. 1 Extended stunt for every 2
prep/elevator stunts. 1 reload connection sequence per pyramid.
Basket Tosses: Prohibited, no expectations.
Tumbling: Not taught or spotted by school personal or peer. Must be able to do on own in a gym before
performing at game. No twisting flips.
Additional (optional): Use safety Mats when learning new stunts. Hire UCA safety to teach technique
and stunts.
Information: AACCA Safety Manual www.aacca.org, UCA webpage www.uca.com , NCA webpage
www.nca.com
Appendix D: Financial Responsibility
Costs to expect as a cheerleader: This may not be all of the costs incurred during your child’s
participation as a cheerleader, but it is a general idea. Please note you will get to keep everything you pay
for. Payment plans are available for these fees. Please see the payment plan form to choose the best
option for you.
Camp Wear and gifts $15
UCA Cheer Day Camp-Summer 2014 (3 days) $150
Game Day Cheer Shirts and Sweatshirt $35
Bow to Toe Package Uniform (shell, skirt, shorts, briefs, sports bra, bow, long sleeve half top, socks,
poms, bag, shoes, warm ups) $250
Total Estimate for a cheerleader= $450
Costs to expect as a mascot: This may not be all of the costs incurred during your child’s participation
as a mascot, but it is a general idea.
UCA Cheer Day Camp (3 days) $145 (optional for mascots but strongly encouraged)
Game Day Cheer Shirt and Sweatshirt $35 +extra $15 bow for females
Mascot uniform (dry clean at the end of school year) $50+
Total Estimate for the mascot=$280
Cost to expect as a manager: $50 (cheer shirt, sweatshirt and bow for females)
Informed Consent and Acknowledgment Agreement
McMath Middle School Cheerleading Program
Coach Name: Kelli Hauser
Year of program: 2016-2017
Cheerleading is a vigorous, physical activity involving motion, rotation and height in a unique
environment and, as such, carries with it a higher than ordinary risk of injury. Be advised that
serious catastrophic injury, paralysis or even death could occur particularly if a participant were
to land on his/her head, neck, or back.
I/We, __________________, parent and/or legal guardians of ___________________,
who is a student at McMath Middle School, voluntarily give my consent for our student to
participate in the cheerleading program.
It has been adequately explained to me that cheerleading is an activity which involves
airborne inversion of the body and, therefore, has an increased potential for serious injury,
paralysis, or even death.
I understand that my daughter/son is required to be in good physical shape and condition
and that the activities in which she/he will be asked to participate are strenuous and require
physical and athletic agility. It has been fully explained to me that these activities include, but
are not necessarily limited to, a variety of gymnastics maneuvers, including somersaults, back
handsprings, and aerials; a variety of mounts, tosses, and stunts requiring coordination of more
than one participant on the squad. I understand activities will not be confined to any one site or
venue throughout the year.
I represent to the school that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, my daughter/son
has no physical, medical, or mental disability or other limitation that would restrict her/his ability
to fully participate in this activity. I have been informed that my daughter/son must be
examined by a physician prior to participation in this activity. I further agree to notify
immediately the appropriate school personnel in the event of any change in my daughter’s/son’s
health status.
I agree to, and by signing this agreement, release the coaches, advisors, volunteers and
staff of McMath Middle School and the Board of Education from any claim of negligence brought
forth by myself, my daughter/son, my heirs, executors, and designees, this includes any liability
arising from claims for damages for injury to my son/daughter and any claims for loss of
damages to her/his property which may arise out of her/his participation in this school
sponsored program for the 2014-2015 academic year.
In witness whereof, we have affixed our signatures to this agreement this ____ day of ______,
20____, at McMath Middle School.
______________________________________________
Parent/guardian signature
_________________________
Date
______________________________________________
Parent/guardian signature
_________________________
Date
______________________________________________
Cheerleader signature
_________________________
Date
McMath Cheer Squad Candidate Essay Questions
Name__________________________
Please answer the following questions in as much detail as you can. Part of the selection process is how
these questions are answered. Please write neatly. Use a separate sheet of paper if necessary.
1. Why do you want to be a cheerleader/mascot/manager?
2. What is your idea of a perfect cheerleader/mascot/manager?
3. What do you think it takes to be a McMath Cheerleader/mascot/manager?
4. Give some examples of how you have shown dedication.
5. Describe how you handle conflict.
6. How would you handle discipline?
7. How will you avoid drama?
8. Describe your personality and your attitude.
9. What is your definition of teamwork and why is it important?
10. What do you do if you don’t get your way?
Cheer Squad Health Form
Please PRINT or write legibly
Participant’s full name:_____________________________________________________
Address: _______________________________ City: ____________________ Zip: _______________
Home phone: ______________ Parents cell Phone: _____________ Work phone: ________________
Email:_____________________________________
Date of birth ____________________ Social Security Number __________________________
Parents/Guardians Name:_________________________________________________
Doctor’s Name: _____________________ Phone: ____________________________
Preferred Hospital: _________________________________________
Insurance Information: (only fill out information for policies which carry your child)
Father’s Insurance Company: ______________________________________________
Policy Number: _________________________ Phone #: ______________________________
Mother’s Insurance Company:___________________________________________
Policy Number: ___________________________ Phone #: ________________________
Emergency Contact: (other than parent/guardian)
Name: ___________________________________________________
Relationship:_________________________________
Home phone: _______________________ Parents cell Phone: ____________________ Work phone:
________________
Health History: (Do you have or have you ever had)
Diabetes
Yes
No
Tuberculosis
Yes
No
Heart Disease
Yes
No
Physical Deformities Yes
No
Contact/glasses
Yes
No
Hernia
Yes
No
Asthmas
Yes
No
Dizziness/fainting
Yes
No
Back Injury
Yes
No
Speech Defect
Yes
No
Head Injury
Yes
No
Convulsion/epilepsy
Allergies
Kidney Disease
Bone/joint Disease
Chronic Nosebleeds
Vision problems
Nervous Disorder
High Blood Pressure
Any Medication
Chronic Illness
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
No
If you answered “YES” to ANY of these questions, please give a brief history of the problem, date
symptoms first occurred, treatment for the problem, etc. You may write on the back of this page if
necessary.
____________________________________________________________________________________
It is understood that even though all measures necessary are taken to ensure that all athletes are safe
from harm, the possibility of an accident still remains. Neither the UIL (University of Scholastic League)
nor Denton ISD assumes any responsibility in case an accident occurs.
If, in the judgment of any representative of the school, the above student should need immediate care
and treatment as a result of injury or sickness, I do hereby request, authorize, and consent to such care
and treatment as any be given said student by any physician, trainer, nurse, hospital representative from
any claim by any person whomsoever on account of such care and treatment of said student.
________________________________
Parent/guardian Signature
___________
Date
We will also need a Physicians Physical on file with the cheer coach if there isn’t one filed with
the PE/Athletics office at McMath.