Section I: MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate
School Philosophy
MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School provides an alternative educational approach
for students in grades six through eight. Primary emphasis is placed on a highly structured
program of basic academic skills and enrichment and the establishment of good study
habits. The school seeks to instill within each student a sense of responsibility, patriotism,
pride in accomplishment, and a positive self-image.
Mission: Provide a balanced, comprehensive, standards-based core curriculum with a
steadfast emphasis on high expectations and accountability for all students.
Vision: Parents, students, and staff are committed to academic excellence, citizenship,
patriotism, and respect for all.
CHARACTERISTICS OF A FUNDAMENTAL EDUCATION
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Emphasis on basic academic skills and enrichment
Structured classroom in which learning is teacher-initiated, directed, and
supervised, with an emphasis on dynamic, innovative, and creative teaching
High standards of student conduct to enhance quality instruction
Insistence on good study habits, self-discipline, and responsibility
Reinforcement of the traditional values of patriotism, citizenship, respect,
courtesy, and pride in accomplishment
High standards for student dress as expressed in the MacArthur Dress Code
Parent commitment, communication, and involvement throughout the student’s
education at MacArthur
Part of the fundamental philosophy includes parent involvement. We are seeking
parents to participate on the following committees and in the following organizations:
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PFO (Parent-Faculty Organization)
School Site Council
Dress Code Committee
8th Grade Activities Committee
English Language Advisory Council
History Faire
Parent Education
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MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School
CONTRACT
AS A STUDENT OF MACARTHUR FUNDAMENTAL INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL, I SHALL:
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Strive for excellence in citizenship and academic work. I will complete all assignments neatly,
accurately, on time, and make-up work missed during all absences within the period established by the
teacher.
Comply with all requirements for each subject.
Show respect for all students, teachers, administrators, staff members, guests, and school property.
Comply with the school and District Code of Student Conduct.
Be prepared for learning in each classroom every day.
Follow the school’s uniform or dress code policy.
Attend all classes, on time, unless ill or excused.
I have read the above agreement and I will abide by it.
______________________________________
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Pupil’s Signature
Date
AS A PARENT OF A MACARTHUR FUNDAMENTAL INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL PUPIL, I SHALL SUPPORT
THE GOALS AND PHILOSOPHY OF THE FUNDAMENTAL SCHOOL PROGRAM AND AGREE TO:
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Assist my child in achieving the required academic standards.
Participate in all conferences with school personnel when requested.
Follow through on mutually agreed upon decisions regarding my MacArthur student.
Know and enforce the school’s tardy and absence policies and be responsible for my student’s regular
attendance and arriving to school on time.
Support the school’s homework policy and provide a quiet place for my student to study.
Be responsible for reading the school’s handbook with my student.
Support all school policies and procedures.
Know and enforce the uniform and dress code policies.
Attend Back-to-School Night, Open House, and other important school functions.
I understand that MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School provides an alternative program, that no
transportation is provided, and that instruction is in English only. I further understand that a bilingual program
is available at my neighborhood school, but I elect for my child to attend the fundamental school.
I understand that I must live or work within the boundaries of the Santa Ana Unified School
District in order for my child to attend MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School. I also
understand that my child will be transferred if I no longer live or work within those
boundaries.
I UNDERSTAND THAT FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THE STANDARDS AND REQUIREMENTS SET
FORTH IN THIS AGREEMENT WILL BE GROUNDS FOR TRANSFER FROM MACARTHUR
FUNDAMENTAL INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL AT THE DISCRETION OF THE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL.
I have read the above agreement and I will abide by it.
_____________________________________
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Parent’s Signature
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Principal’s Signature
Date
________________
Date
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MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School
STAFF-SCHOOL AGREEMENT
As a staff member of MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School, I agree to:
1. Consistently support the MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School philosophy
and enforce the rules with all students. This includes, but is not limited to, the
MacArthur Dress Code, Assignment Card, and Tardy Card.
2. Explain school expectations, instructional goals, and grading systems to students
and parents.
3. Maintain a classroom environment conducive to outstanding student achievement.
4. Develop a progressive classroom discipline plan that fosters student responsibility
and adherence to the Student Code of Conduct.
5. Show respect for all students, parents, staff members, and guests and serve as a
positive role model.
6. Provide a challenging and rigorous standards-based academic program that is
appropriate for the grade level of the student.
7. Notify parents of student progress in a timely manner.
8. Recognize outstanding student achievement.
9. Participate in meetings that focus on the standards and student improvement issues.
10. Actively participate in staff development opportunities.
11. Attend all staff and department meetings.
12. Support and promote school programs, extracurricular activities, and clubs on campus
13. Recognize the uniqueness of the middle school child and his/her varying levels of
maturity.
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MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School
PRINCIPAL/ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL AGREEMENT
As a Principal/Administrator of MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School, I agree
to:
1. Communicate to all students, parents, and staff the philosophy of MacArthur
Fundamental Intermediate School.
2. Provide instructional leadership by supporting teachers in their classrooms, allocating
funding for important instructional resources, and making appropriate training for staff
and parents.
3. Reinforce and support the partnership between parents, students, and staff by
creating an inviting environment.
4. Ensure a safe, clean, and orderly school environment where academic achievement
is the focus.
5. Consistently enforce the rules and regulations of MacArthur Fundamental
Intermediate School.
6. Inform parents of academic, behavioral or other concerns about their student when
appropriate.
7. Be responsible for the operation of the school.
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NOTE TO PARENTS
An important aspect of the fundamental school curriculum is
the appreciation and promotion of citizenship, patriotism, the
Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag, the MacArthur
Citizenship Code, and our American heritage. Please be
advised of this as you enroll your student in the fundamental
program.
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MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School
Parent Involvement Policy
To support the goal of MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School to educate all students
successfully, students, parents and staff must work as knowledgeable partners, as agreed to in the
policies and contracts of the school.
MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School shall do the following for all parents:
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Communicate the national and state standards through individual parent-teacher conferences,
meetings, open forums, and newsletters.
Present the results of state assessments at a parent meeting and through communication sent
home. The Research and Evaluation Department of the school district notify parents annually
of individual student assessment results. An explanation of the information is available in
several languages.
Provide information about curriculum and instruction of the school through meetings or
written communication on an ongoing basis.
Involve parents in planning, review, and improvement of academic programs and services to
students through meetings of School Site Council, Parent/Faculty Organization, and English
Learners Advisory Committee.
Hold an annual meeting to share with parents the Title 1 program and its requirements.
Conduct parent meetings and activities. Meeting topics for the school year will include but
not be limited to: assessment of parental needs; planning for the coming year; annual of
parent meetings and activities; and dissemination of evaluation results.
Encourage parents to participate in training activities designed to present instructional
strategies and understanding of the standards, to emphasize the importance of education and
learning, and to promote adult literacy.
Follow-up on concerns and recommendations made by parents at parent workshops and
through surveys. Timely feedback will be provided and documented by the next scheduled
meeting. Topics that are appropriate for SSC review/action will be placed on the agenda for
the next regularly scheduled meeting by the school administration.
Provide information on the Parent Involvement Policy by including a copy of the document in
the student handbook given to each student at the beginning of the school year.
Maintain an open communication system that encourages parents to confer with all staff
members.
2. A copy of MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School’s written policy on parental
involvement shall be on file with the District Student Achievement office, MacArthur
Fundamental Intermediate School’s office and on the MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate
School website.
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AMERICAN CITIZEN’S CODE
I am proud to be an American Citizen.
I have the freedom to make my own choices,
and I must remember that I am responsible
for the choices that I make. I will obey the law to
help keep my country strong.
Written by Dana Suman,
MacArthur Student, 1987-88
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Section II: ACADEMIC PROGRAM
OVERVIEW
MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School emphasizes a highly structured program
of academic skills and subject matter. Classroom activities are standard-based and are
teacher-initiated, directed, and supervised. A variety of effective methods of instruction is
used. The school’s instructional motto is “Read: Understand and Use”.
The curriculum follows a definite progression, building on skills and abilities acquired at
each level. At appropriate levels, the instructional program will include: language arts
(reading, spelling, writing, and grammar), mathematics, U.S., ancient, and world history,
science, and physical education. The elective program offers Spanish, Peer Assistance
Leadership (PAL®), music, exploratory program yearbook, journalism, office practice, and
computers. Specific information on each class can be obtained from the school.
STANDARDS FOR WRITTEN WORK
All students will be held accountable by teachers for the following standards when turning in
written work:
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In the upper right hand corner of all papers, students must write their full name,
the date, and the class period.
Written work must be on standard-size paper that is in reasonable condition, not
crumpled, carelessly folded, torn, or smudged.
Student must write legibly at all times.
Only one side of a paper may be used when writing formal assignments.
All formal assignments must be written in blue or black ink unless otherwise
instructed.
Students must always indent paragraphs.
Every sentence must begin with capital letters.
Correct punctuation must always be used.
All words should be spelled correctly.
When using word processing, students should double-space their work and use
12-point type in a font prescribed by the classroom teacher.
First and last name
A student’s paper should ALWAYS use this heading:
9/10/01
Per. 2
Title
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HOMEWORK
There are many changes that occur in the transition from elementary to intermediate
school. The time, effort, and manner of doing homework are some of the most critical of
those changes. Homework is assigned regularly, from Monday through Thursday. Students
may also have projects to complete on the weekends. It is suggested that daily study
schedule should be followed at home in order to maximize your student’s learning potential.
If assignments are completed at school, students should review homework with parents
each evening. (If work is complete, one hour of silent reading should be established by the
parent). If assignments are completed at home, parents should check each assignment to
see that all assigned work has been completed. Students write their daily homework
assignments in their agendas and parents should refer to the agenda each night to see what
work has been assigned.
Students at MacArthur participate in the Reading Counts Program. Students must
read for at least 30 minutes every night. Yearly totals: Grade 6 goal is 500,000 words; grade
7 goal is 750,000 words, grade 8 goal is 1,000,000 words. Check with your child regularly on
meeting his/her goal. Ask to see his/her individual Reading Counts report.
REPORT CARDS
Report cards will be issued quarterly and mailed home. Parents and students will be
informed of the criteria for grading. An academic performance grade will be given for each
subject together with a citizenship grade and teacher comments. The academic
performance grade will reflect scores on tests, homework, and the quality of daily
participation. Citizenship grades will reflect the completion of work on time, the student’s
behavior, attention in class, and participation in classroom discussions.
PROGRESS REPORTS
Approximately three weeks before the end of a grading period, parents will be notified
if their student is achieving an academic grade below a “C” or if citizenship is not satisfactory.
Computer progress reports are mailed home each quarter (4 times a year) by the school
district office.
PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES
Parents are always welcome to contact the school at any time. Our teachers will be
glad to arrange a conference with you at a mutually convenient time. Please either send a
note to the school or a call to your student’s counselor to schedule a meeting.
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TESTING
Students at MacArthur are tested yearly using school, District and State-mandated
tests to measure student progress in the areas of reading, language, and math. The
following tests are administered over the course of the year:
STAR testing (CAT-6 and California Standards tests) - Grades 6-8
Writing Proficiency Test - Grades 6-8
Basic Math Skills - Grades 6-8 (All students must know their basic operations in
addition, subtraction, division, and multiplication by memory. Does yours?)
United States Constitution Test - Grade 8
State-Mandated Physical Fitness Test – Grade 7
Parents will be notified of their student’s test results.
PROMOTION/RETENTION
The Santa Ana Unified School District has very specific guidelines concerning
promotion and retention of students. Please refer to Administrative Regulations (AR) 5123.
Copies are available in the office.
When a student’s grades and test scores fall below the set standards, a Board of
Review comprised of the counselor and an administrator, meet with the parents to discuss
recommendations for promotion or retention. The school will make every attempt to
consult and work with parents to help solve students’ academic problems throughout the
year.
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Douglas MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School
Homework Hints
Listed below are some helpful hints for students to use to help establish the habit of homework.
BEFORE YOU LEAVE SCHOOL:
1. Check your Agenda. Decide what homework you need to do for the evening.
2. Get out the materials you will need for your homework.
3. If you don’t understand one of your assignments, you should ask your teacher about it before you
leave school.
AT HOME:
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5.
When it is time to study, go to your study place.
Put on the desk or table, all the materials you will need.
Sit down and begin to work.
Concentrate on your homework
Avoid interruptions. Do not make phone calls, watch T.V., or listen to the radio until your homework is
finished.
6. Get help if you need it.
7. When your homework is finished, put your assignments in your notebook. Place your materials in a
special place so that you will remember to take them to school.
The place where you study:
a. Study at a table or desk. Sit in a comfortable, straight-backed chair. Don’t study on a bed, a
sofa, or the floor.
b. Pick a quiet place that is free from distractions. Don’t study near the television, radio, or
stereo.
c. Be sure that your study place has good light.
The materials you will need:
a. Keep paper, pencils, pens, dictionary, and other study materials in your study area.
b. You may wish to keep these things in a box.
c. Remove distracting things from your study area.
The time when you study:
a. Pick a special study time on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and over the
weekend.
b. Select a time in the afternoon or early evening so that you will be alert and will be able to finish
your homework before bedtime.
c. Try to pick the same time each day. This will help you establish the “homework habit”.
Parents, your assistance in helping your student use the Agenda and make the best use of homework
time will be appreciated. Here are a few suggestions for ways in which you can help.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Help your student set up an appropriate time and place to study.
Check to be sure the Agenda is placed at the front of your student’s notebook.
Assist your student in planning homework by looking for assignments that are due on the following day.
Encourage your student to begin long-term assignments (for example, book reports, and projects)
early.
5. Make sure that all assignments are completed and stored in the correct section of their notebook.
HOW THE PARENT CAN HELP YOUR STUDENT AT HOME
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1. READ TO YOUR STUDENT
“Let’s sit down and read together
Good modeling is the best teaching technique let your student see you
reading; a book, a magazine, the newspaper, etc.
—
2. LISTEN TO YOUR STUDENT READ
Let me listen to you read.”
Let your student know that you are interested and eager to hear him/her
read to you.
Ask your student to tell you the words he/she doesn’t know.
Help your student with the words he/she doesn’t know.
With your student, keep a record of the words your student doesn’t know.
Ask: “Did you like the story?”
“Tell me about the story.”
3. PLAY GAMES WITH YOUR STUDENT
Help your student with following the directions.
Follow the directions every time you play.
4. ASSIST YOUR STUDENT WITH HOMEWORK
Ask: “Would you like for me to help you?”
Do one example together.
Ask your student to read the directions to you OR to tell you what he/she is
supposed to do.
Insist your student try to do the work alone and complete all homework
assigned.
5. LISTEN TO YOUR STUDENT
Tell your student “I’m listening.”
Be interested in what your student is saying.
Ask questions that necessitate your student to respond.
Say to your student: “Tell me more.”
“I’m not sure I understand.”
“Tell me what you mean.”
“I’d like to hear more,” OR
“That’s exciting (funny, good, etc)~” “That
sounds like a good time.”
“I like the way you explain things go on.”
“You seem to have enjoyed (like, disliked, etc.) it.”
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6. HOW TO HELP YOUR STUDENT SUCCEED:
Give simple, clear directions.
Use language that is understandable, not confusing.
Put yourself in your student’s place.
GOOD LUCK – ENJOY THIS TIME WITH YOUR STUDENT
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Section III: How to be Successful at MacArthur
SCHOOL SUPPLIES
In order for students to be successful in class, they must have the correct materials.
In an effort to stress organizational skills, all students will maintain and carry with them to
each class a 3-ring binder notebook that is at least 3 inches thick. Each notebook is to
be divided into separate sections for each academic area. Parents can expect to buy 4-5
binders per year because they wear out. Every student should also have the following
school supplies:
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School Agenda purchased through Advisement class for $6.00
Subject dividers (at least 7. No folders are allowed)
A well-made pencil pouch
Sharpened pencils (at least 2)
Colored pencils
Blue or black ink pens
Red correcting pens
Lined paper (at least 50 sheets, without ragged edges)
12-inch/metric ruler
Calculator
Protractor
Compass
Safety scissors
Glue stick
P.E. uniform
Additional supplies as specified by teachers
All books must be covered at all times!!! Each book must have it’s own cover.
Items we strongly suggest to have at home:
 Dictionary
 Thesaurus
Items that are not allowed on campus at any time:
 Markers or felt pens of any kind
 Highlighters
 Liquid whiteout
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Organization Skills
Using Your Agenda:
 Copy down the homework assignments in all of your classes every day. Be
 detailed. Check off assignments when done and put your completed work in your
notebook.
 Write your class schedule on the front page.
 Do not tear out or fold the pages of your Agenda. Use the ruler or a sticky note to
mark your page.
 If you have a long-term project, write reminders in your Agenda each week until it is
due. Do not put the project off until the last minute!
 Write reminders if you need to take your textbook to class. For example, if you need
your book in your third period class the next day, write yourself a reminder note in
 the space for your second period class on the day you need the book.
 Use the space at the bottom of the page to make a list of all the books or materials
you need to take home that night. Also, write any after-school activities like
detentions, tryouts, or practices.
 Get a “buddy” phone number of at least 2 people in each of your classes, in case
 you need help or if you are absent.
 Use the reference section in the back of your agenda to help you in your math,
language arts, science, and history classes.
Before You Leave School:
 Check your Agenda to see which books and materials you need to take home.
 If you don’t understand one of your assignments, you should talk to your teacher
about it before leaving school.
At Home:
 Decide when you are going to do your homework, and for how long. Do not put your
homework off until late at night. Try to give yourself short breaks in between
assignments.
 Find a quiet place to do your homework, away from distractions (such as the
television or phone). Begin to study as soon as you sit down.
 Spread out all materials you will need. You should have paper, pencils, pens, a
dictionary, and correction fluid available in case you need them. You may wish to
create a “Homework Box” to store these supplies in.
 Take out your Agenda and books.
 Use your Agenda to decide which assignment you are going to work on first (due
 the next day, first period, hardest homework, etc.). Develop an order for doing your
homework that works best for you.
 Try to do your work at a table or a desk, with plenty of light. Avoid doing homework
 on your bed, couch, or floor.
 Be sure that you are concentrating on your work. If you find your mind wandering,
take a short break, and then get back to work. Avoid distractions and interruptions
(such as phone calls) while doing your work. Remove any distracting objects or
 items from your study area.
 Get help if you need it.
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Use your Agenda to double check that you have completely finished all assignments,
and that they are put in the correct section of your notebook, packed and ready to go.
Put your materials in a certain place so that you will remember to take them to school.
Organize your notebook at least once a week. Put all papers in the correct sections.
Get plenty of sleep, so you are ready for the next day
Skills for Listening
Good listening require skill and practice. It’s important to know how to listen effectively when
you need to pay attention to a teacher or classmate presenting information.
1. Listen actively. To be a good listener you must:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
Make eye contact with the speaker.
Nod your head.
Listen Carefully.
Be able to summarize what you heard.
Ask questions.
2. Listen accurately. To be a good listener you must:
A.
B.
C.
D.
Think about what you hear.
Be ready to take notes.
Write down questions to ask later.
Use Cornell notes (see pg. 17)
3. Listen thoughtfully. To be a thoughtful listener you must:
A. Keep an open mind about the speaker and the topic.
B. Be careful about being judgmental.
C. Listen for important words or phrases.
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Using Context Clues
When you come across a word that you don’t know, you can often figure out its meaning
from the other words in the sentence. The other words form a familiar context, or setting, for
the unfamiliar word. Looking closely at these surrounding words will give you hints, or clues,
about the meaning of the new word. Seven common types of context clues are listed below
with examples.
Types of Context Clues:
Clues from synonyms:
Sara had an ominous feeling when she woke up, but the feeling was less threatening
when she saw she was in her own room
Clues from antonyms:
Jorge had always been quite heavy, but he looked gaunt when he returned from the
hospital.
Clues contained in comparisons and contrasts:
Riding a mountain bike in a remote area is my idea of a great day. I wonder why some
people like to ride motorcycles on busy six-lane highways.
Clues contained in a definition or description:
Manatees, large aquatic mammals (sometimes called sea cows), can be found in the
warm coastal waters of Florida.
Clues that appear in a series:
The campers spotted sparrows, chickadees, cardinals, and indigo buntings on
Saturday morning.
Clues provided by the tone and setting:
It was a cool and breezy fall afternoon. Hundreds of fans were gathering for the last
game of the season, and the student jazz band was entertaining the crowd. It was an
auspicious event.
Clues derived from cause and effect:
The amount of traffic at Washington and Main doubled last year, so crossing lights
were placed at that corner to avert an accident.
(Write Source 2000)
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CORNELL NOTETAKING SYSTEM
One of the best ways to help you remember important information and review for a test is to
take notes during class. Note taking can seem difficult at first, but if you follow these note
taking tips you should have an easier time perfecting this skill.
Class:
Recall Clues and Questions
Date:
Notes: The Cornell Note taking System
Preparing the system
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Use standard 3-hole paper
Use one side of paper only.
Use a black or blue ballpoint pen.
Draw a line 1/3 from the left side of the paper.
Write ideas and facts on the right side of the line.
Skip lines between major ideas.
Using the system
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Record notes simply
Write key phrases, not entire sentences.
Don’t make an elaborate outline.
Write down all key terms and definitions.
Include all relevant examples.
Use an abbreviation system.
Write as neatly as possible.
Leave blank space when you miss ideas, to add information after
asking the teacher or a classmate for clarification.
After the lecture or reading
1.
Read through your notes as soon as possible after the lecture or
reading.
Rewrite illegible or abbreviated words that you may forget.
Check the spelling of any uncertain words.
Improve the organization of the notes by highlighting, numbering,
and bulleting items.
Write keywords or questions in the recall column that prompt the
information in the note-taking column.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Review method
1.
2.
3.
4.
Cover the right side of your notes with a piece of paper.
Using the questions or key words in the recall column, recite aloud
the facts and ideas of the lecture or reading in your own words.
Slide the paper down and check that portion of your notes to see if
you remembered all the critical information.
Check off questions in the recall column that you should continue to
review more seriously.
(Kinsella, San Francisco State University, 5/02)
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QUALITY OF CLASSWORK AND HOMEWORK
Students should always strive to do their very best on all of their work. Here are questions
you can ask yourself about each assignment:
1.
2.
3.
4.
What are you learning?
Why do you need to know this?
How do you know when your work is “good enough”?
What can you do to make your work better?
Here are some tips for double checking assignments before you turn them in. You should
always assess your work in these three ways:
1.
Is the work neatly written or typed?
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2.
Is the work organized and complete?
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3.
Is it readable?
Is the handwriting well formed?
If using a computer, was the correct font and size used? Did I use spell check?
If the assignment calls for it, is the work designed neatly and completely?
Is the entire assignment done?
Does the work make sense?
Did you head your paper correctly? (see Pg. 8)
Were the teacher’s directions followed completely?
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Did you compare the assignment to your Agenda to make sure you did the right
work?
Did you double-check your Agenda?
Did you do everything the teacher expects you to do?
For math, did you show all work?
PARENTS:
Using these standards, parents must check each assignment every day to see that it has
been completed.
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Preparing for a Test
To do well on a test, you need to do a variety of things. You need to pay attention in class,
take good notes, ask the right questions, and study efficiently. You also need to know how
to be a good test taker. Developing good test taking techniques can help you be more
successful.
1) Ask Questions

What material will be covered on the test? Know what information you are
expected to know before you begin to study for a test.
 What kind of questions will be on the test? Become very familiar with the five most
common kinds of items.
2) Review the material
Start reviewing a few days before the test. Don’t try to “cram” the information the
night before.
 Review all the material. Then focus on the difficult parts.
 Divide your study time into two or three sessions if there is a lot to cover. Study for
20 to 30 minutes and then take a short break. Keep studying for another short
session after you take your break.
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3) Study your notes.
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Reread the material. Then put it in your own words.
Make lists, flash cards, or rhymes to help you remember. For instance, if you want
to remember a list of words, make up a silly sentence like “My very energetic
mother just slid under Nellie’s porch” will help yo remember the planets listed in
their order from the sun (Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus,
Neptune, Pluto).
 Use graphic organizers to help you organize your thoughts.
 Picture the material in your mind or draw pictures to help you remember items.
4) Taking a test.





Listen carefully to directions. Be sure you know the amount of item you have, what
kind of markings to use, and so on.
Establish a good attitude. Learn to control your anxiety by taking a few deep
breaths or shaking your hands and fingers to increase circulation. Think positively
by saying to yourself “I’m going to do the best I can.”
Ask for help. If there is anything unclear or confusing about the test, ask your
teacher to explain.
Look over the whole test quickly. First, answer the questions you are sure of, then
answer the other questions. Be sure to read each possible answer before
selecting one on a multiple-choice test.
When you finish, use any extra time you have to check your test. Make sure you
answered all the questions.
19
Taking Writing Tests
In a writing test, you write an essay that answers a specific question. This kind of test
involves several steps. You read the questions, think about what you know, plan your
answer, and, finally, you write your answer.
Understanding the question is key to writing a good essay. Read the question or prompt
carefully—at least two times. As you look for the key word or words that tell you exactly
what to do. Here are some key words you will often find in essay questions.
Compare means “tell how these things are alike.”
Contrast means “tell how these things are different.” Some essay questions ask you to
compare and contrast.
Define means “tell what a word or subject means, what its function or role is, what group or
category it belongs to, and how it is different from other members of the group.”
Describe means “tell how something looks, sounds, or feels.” In some cases, you may even
describe how something smells and tastes.
Evaluate means “give your opinion.” Write about good points and bad points. It is very
important to tell why you have this opinion and to give facts and details that support it.
Explain means “tell how something happens or how it works.” You should give reasons,
causes, or step-by-step details.
Identify means “answer who? What? When? Where? And why? About a subject.”
List means “include a specific number of examples, reasons, or causes.”
Outline means “organize your answer into main points and specific examples.” In some
cases, you will use an actual outline.
Prove means “present facts and details that show something is true.”
Review means “give an overall picture of the main points about a subject.”
Summarize means “tell the important points in a shortened form
20
STUDY ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS
MacArthur students can always seek help from their teachers. There are, however,
additional programs that students should attend in order to achieve at least a “C” grade.
Each of these programs is supervised by a credentialed staff member. A brief explanation
of each one is listed below.
Study Smart Study Hall: This program provides a quiet and structured place for
students to work on their assignments during lunch. Student participation is voluntary. A
few students, however, may be assigned to participate in this program by a counselor or
an administrator. A teacher is there to assist students or help with assignments. Open
Monday through Thursday.
Tutor Corps: This program is designed to match CJSF Honor Society tutors with those
students who have been assigned additional help by their teacher or counselor. Students are
assigned a specific number of tutorial sessions and upon their completion the student’s
record of attendance is returned to the teacher.
Mac Computer Lab: For those students with parent permission, the Mac Lab is
open Tuesday and Wednesday after school from 2:45 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Availability is
determined on first-come, first-served basis.
Study Skills Class: This program is designed to help students who need to improve
their organizational and study techniques. This class meets for three weeks. Students may
be referred to this program by their teacher, their counselor or their parent. Registration is
needed for participation.
Math Skills Assistance: It is expected that EVERY student will be at grade level in
math. Students who do not meet math standards may be required to attend tutorial sessions,
Summer School and/or additional class during the school year. This class will take the place
of their elective. Teachers will conduct tutorial sessions throughout the year. These
sessions will be held before or after school or during lunch.
Saturday Math Academy: Teacher-recommended 7th graders who are taking prealgebra and 8th graders who are taking algebra are recommended for this program. Parent
participation at meetings is necessary. Classes meet on Saturdays and students must
attend each session. Students receive state standards-based instruction and tutoring
from MacArthur teachers.
Language Arts Skills Assistance: It is expected that EVERY student will be at grade
level in reading and writing skills. Students who are far below these standards may be
required to attend tutorial sessions, Summer School and/or an additional class during the
school year. Teachers will conduct tutorial sessions before or after school or during lunch.
Library: The Library is maintained as a quiet place to read, do homework, or study.
Students may not eat in the Library and they must be quiet. The Library is open every day in
the morning at 7:25 a.m., at lunch, and after school until 3:00 p.m.
21
CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT
Douglas MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School has been designed to help
students focus on academic success. It is expected that every student will operate fully
within the framework of the Code of Student Conduct. Students who choose not to follow the
Code of Student Conduct will be appropriately disciplined.
CAMPUS CONDUCT
Because MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School is a community of students
gathered for the purpose of formal learning, where each respects himself, others, and the
school, all students are expected to:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
Demonstrate acceptable behavior in the classroom, on the school grounds, and
on the way to and from school.
Comply with the District mandatory Uniform Policy. (See pg. 25)
Attend classes on time, every day, unless out of school for a valid reason (e.g.
illness or bereavement).
At no time deface, damage, destroy, steal, or litter school district property or the
property of other persons.
Be honest, courteous, respectful, and show good manners.
Show respect for our country and its symbols through participation in appropriate
patriotic activities.
Move quietly and in an orderly manner throughout the campus. Walk while on
campus.
Bring reading material daily to all classes.
Refrain from inappropriate or public displays of affection.
Eat food in the lunch area only, and help maintain a clean campus by putting all
trash in the proper containers.
Obey directions for seating, conduct, and dismissal at assemblies.
Maintain the standards of MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School when not
under the direct supervision of a teacher or supervisor and when attending
school functions off campus.
Complete the registration process for all bicycles being ridden to school.
Bicycles must be securely locked in the bicycle racks.
Obey all traffic regulations when riding to and from school. It is the law that all
students riding bicycles must wear helmets.
Use the library responsibly, respect the rights of others, use materials properly,
and return books on time.
Promptly pay for lost, damaged, and/or overdue library books and textbooks.
22
STUDENTS WILL NOT AT ANY TIME:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
Cheat, forge signatures on school documents, or copy other students’ work.
Leave campus during school hours. Parents must come to the office and
sign the student out of school.
Use profane or vulgar language or make obscene or suggestive gestures.
Make any threat to commit, attempt to commit, or commit any physical
violence against school personnel or other students.
Push, hit, kick, “play fight,” wrestle, tease, or call teachers or other students
names or participate in any form of “hazing” against another student or
students.
Bring any form of toys, balls, bats or similar equipment, collectibles such as
trading cards, pogs, etc., playing cards, magic cards, collector cards,
electronic/computer games, stuffed animals, cameras, radios, tape/CD
players, laser pointers or recorders, or electronic telephone beepers/pagers
onto the campus.
Chew gum on campus at any time or at any school-sponsored event.
Loiter on or near school grounds after school.
Run at any time on the campus, including the parking lot.
Climb trees, fences, or buildings on campus.
Throw rocks or other objects (dirt, food, etc.).
Touch, lift, push, sit upon, or deface any vehicle on or near the school
grounds.
Change lockers without permission from the office or share lockers or locker
combinations with friends.
Use a lock other than a school purchased lock.
Privately buy or sell candy or other items on campus. This does not include
school-wide fundraisers.
Use, possess, or distribute tobacco, any controlled substance (including
marijuana), narcotics, alcohol or intoxicant, or other contraband on a school
campus or at any time when under the jurisdiction of the school.
Possess or use lethal weapons (including knives), or any item that may be
constituted as a weapon (brass knuckles, razors, etc.), explosive devices or
any form of caps, poppers, fireworks, stink bombs, or replicas thereof.
Take medication at school without a written notification from parents and
doctors. The medication must be in an original box or container with a
pharmacy label attached and turned into the health office.
Ride bicycles, skateboards, or roller skates on school grounds, especially the
parking lot, at any time (including athletic events and practices).
Leave class for any reason or come to the office without a pass from the
teacher or supervisor.
Leave campus during the school day for any reason without permission from
the Attendance Office.
Be in a restricted area (near lockers and classrooms) during Nutrition and
Lunch, unless authorized to do so. Students must remain inside the white
boundary lines during Nutrition. Students are permitted to be on the blacktop
and field areas (located behind the P.E. building), during Lunch.
Possess or distribute “look-alike” drugs, substances or drug paraphernalia or
possess items that have likenesses of drug-related pictures on them (e.g. a
picture of a marijuana plant).
23
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
Use “gang type writing” on books, notebooks, or any personal or school item.
Gamble. Any form of wagering or betting for money or items is against school
rules. Wagering in any manner is also outlawed by State and Federal law
pertaining to minors.
Spank or strike in any way, pour liquid upon, “egg” students or otherwise
participate in any form of harassment of a student.
Spit on sidewalks, buildings, other people or any school property.
Bring permanent marking pens (markers), highlighters or Liquid Paper
(“white out”) to school.
Fold or tear out pages in the student Agenda.
Write on backpacks, except the student’s name.
Have non school-related materials in or on their binder and backpack (e.g.
pictures of “pop” stars or personal pictures).
CLASSROOM CONDUCT
The goal of MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School is to provide a variety of
opportunities that allow students to realize their academic potential. In order to provide a
classroom environment that is conducive to learning, it is expected that all students will:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Enter and exit the classroom in a quiet and orderly manner.
Be in their seats and ready to work when the tardy bell rings.
Be prepared, at all times, with a covered textbook, school Agenda, pencils, pens, a
notebook, and paper. If textbooks are lost, damaged, or stolen, the student will pay
the full cost for their replacement.
Follow all directions of the classroom teacher and other school staff, and obey the rules
and regulations of each classroom in order to avoid disturbing others.
Complete all work that is assigned and any make up work missed due to absences.
Attend class on time every day unless ill or with an excuse that has been validated by
the office.
Attend to personal grooming during times that students are not sitting in class. Personal
grooming items must be kept in the student’s purse, pocket or locker
during school hours.
Use the bathroom facilities before and after school, during nutrition, during lunch
and between classes rather than during class time.
Eat only in designated areas. Students may not eat in the classroom during class time.
24
Santa Ana Unified School District
IMPLEMENTATION OF THE UNIFORM POLICY IN GRADES K-8
This is a mandatory uniform policy for all students in K-8 schools beginning July 1, 1997. The Board expects students to give attention to
personal cleanliness and to wear clothes that are suitable for the activities in which they participate. Students’ clothing must not cause a
distraction to school activities, create a hazard to safety of the student or others, and may invade the rights of others. The basic District
uniform colors are navy blue bottoms and white tops. Your school will advise you of any other guidelines they may have. The following
apply:
1.0 Model of dress for girls:
 Plain white shirts/blouses with sleeves and a collar, tucked in at the waist (not bloused)
 Navy blue skirts, culottes, skorts, bermudas, dresses with sleeves and a collar, jumpers, or slacks; not jeans
 Plain navy blue or white sweater, jacket, or sweatshirt
 Navy blue or white socks (at knew or below)
 Navy blue vests are permitted when worn over a blouse/shirts
2.0 Model of dress for boys:
 Plain white shirts with sleeves and a collar, tucked in at the waist
 Navy blue slacks or bermuda shorts with waistband no higher than two inches; no jeans
 Plain navy blue or white sweater, jacket, or sweatshirt
 Navy blue or white socks (Mid-calf or below)
 Navy blue vests are permitted when worn over a shirt
3.0 General guidelines for school attire:
 Clothing must be free from tears, rips, holes, etc.
 Clothing is not oversized
 Pants must fit, cannot be oversized, and must be hemmed
 There should be no visible initials, insignias, pictures, or logos on clothing, except for school logos
 Shoes must be enclosed. Steel toes or western-type boots are not to be worn
 Colored or thick shoelaces are not to be worn
 Hats, bandannas, hairnets, and other headgear are not permitted. Only those students, with the approval from the
principal because of medical/religious purposes, may have an exception
 Visible jewelry is limited to small watches, rings, necklaces, and bracelets; earrings should be a small stud or a hoop
no larger that a dime
 Gang slogans and graffiti will not be allowed on backpacks or purses
4.0 An occasional “spirit day” may be declared by the site, at which time students may choose to wear school logo shirts, spirit
shirts, or special activity shirts.
5.0 Parent who choose not to have their students wear uniforms may be exempt from this policy by:
a) requesting an exemption form in the local school; b) completing the application; and c) submitting it to the designated
administrator at the student’s school. Any student who applies for exemption from the Mandatory Uniform Policy must
comply with the previously established District Dress Code (AS 5131)
6.0 No student shall be suspended from class or from school, be expelled from school or receive a lowered grade as a result of
not complying with Board policy.
7.0 No student shall be considered non-compliant with this policy in the following instances:
 When non-compliance derives from a financial hardship
 When a student wears a button, armband, or other accouterment to exercise his/her right to freedom of expression as
provided by Education Code 48907, unless the button, armband, or other accouterment signifies or is related to
gangs, gang membership, or gang activity as provided by Education Code 35183
 When a student wears the uniform of a nationally recognized youth organization, such as Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts,
on regular meeting days
 When a student wears a school-adopted logo shirt on designated days
 When a student’s parent or guardian has secured an exemption from the uniform policy by following the prescribed
procedures.
 When the school principal authorized a special dress day
The following procedures will be followed to assure that the Uniform Policy is administered consistently across the District (AR-5132.56.4):
 If a student is not following the Uniform Policy, the classroom teacher or designee will talk to the student to ascertain

the reason for the non-compliance. If the classroom teacher determines that the issue is one that warrants a parent
contact, then that teacher may refer the concern to the site administration.
The principal will review the policy with the student and parent to make sure that they clearly understand policy
expectations, to explain the exemption procedures, and give the parent the option of helping his/her child to comply
or of exempting the student from the policy
25
MACARTHUR DRESS CODE
2005-2006 School Year
FOR STUDENTS ON WAIVER
PURPOSE
A student’s dress and general appearance should not be such that it draws undesirable attention to the student;
nor should dress and appearance detract or interfere with teaching and learning in the classroom and on the
campus. It is expected that all students shall maintain their person and clothing in a modest, clean, and ageappropriate manner consistent with the District and/or the MacArthur Dress Code and compatible with the
instructional program.
UNACCEPTABLE CLOTHING
 No athletic team clothing or accessories.
 No trench-type knee length coats (unless for inclement weather).
 No clothing, haircuts and accessories worn in a manner that could be associated with gang or group
affiliation.
 No knee socks with over-the-knee shorts.
 No gang writing on anything, including the body or on personal property.
 No extreme styles. (Examples: Gothic, or wild combinations)
BOYS
HAIR




Hair will be clean and neatly groomed above the eyebrows and above the shirt collar. Layers must be
blended. Use at least a #2 blade.
No extreme hairstyles.
Only the student’s natural hair color is permissible. No dyed hair.
No eyebrow designs or shaved eyebrows.
FOOTWEAR
 Socks must be worn with all shoes. No extreme styles of socks allowed.
 Footwear must be appropriate for school activities.
 Shoes must be enclosed. Straps. laces and buckles must be fastened or tied.
PANTS, SHORTS AND OVERALLS
 All pants and shorts must fit appropriately.
 Pants must be properly hemmed and sewn at the bottom. No torn or frayed bottoms.
 No army fatigues, camouflage-type clothing, sweat pants, gym shorts, sweat and/or jogging outfits
(matching or not).
 Pants must be worn at the hips.
BELTS AND SUSPENDERS
 If pants, shorts or overalls have belt loops, a belt must be worn.
 No initialed belt buckles may be worn.
 Belts cannot hang down
SHIRTS AND OUTER GARMENTS
 All shirts must be appropriately fitted at the shoulders and tucked in so that the waistband is visible. If
the shirt cannot remain tucked in, it cannot be worn.
 Except for MacArthur logos, no pictures, characters, logos or print of any kind may be worn.
 No tank tops, mesh shirts, airbrushed shirts.
 No shirts worn as jackets.
 All tops must fit appropriately.
 All shirts must have a collar
 MacArthur T-shirts such as clubs, All-Stars, ASB, and Pentathlon are allowed.
HATS, SUNGLASSES, JEWELRY AND EARRINGS
 No sweatbands, bandanas, hairnets and combs in the hair.
 Pre-approved plain hats or visors, in white, black, or gold, are allowed for outdoor use only.
 No body piercing.
 No earrings
 No jewelry that is dangerous or distracting
26
PERSONAL GROOMING ITEMS
 Personal grooming items must be kept in the student’s backpack or locker and can only be used in the
restroom or P.E. locker room.
GENERAL ITEMS
 No tattoos or writing on the body.
 No oversized, baggy clothing.
GIRLS
HAIR




Hair will be clean and neatly groomed.
No extreme hairstyles.
Only the student’s natural hair color is permissible. No dyed or streaked hair.
No eyebrow designs or shaved eyebrows.
FOOTWEAR
 Footwear must be appropriate for school activities with heels not to exceed 2 inches.
 Socks or nylons must be worn with all shoes.
 Sandals with heel straps are allowed.
PANTS, SHORTS AND OVERALLS
 All pants and shorts must fit appropriately.
 Shorts must reach mid-thigh.
 No army fatigues, camouflage-type clothing, sweatpants, sweat and/or jogging outfits (matching or not).
 Pants must be properly hemmed and sewn at the bottom. No torn or frayed bottoms.
BELTS AND SUSPENDERS
 If pants, shorts, or overalls have belt loops, a belt must be worn.
 No initialed belt buckles.
 Belts cannot hang down.
DRESSES, SKIRTS AND JUMPERS
 Dresses, jumpers, skirt hemlines, and slits may not be higher than 3 inches from the top of the kneecap.
 No dresses with spaghetti straps or cutout designs.
 No dresses that are strapless or off the shoulder.
SHIRTS, BLOUSES AND OUTER GARMENTS
 No white T-shirts, with or without pockets, can be worn as an outer shirt.
 All blouses and shirts must be appropriately fitted and tucked in so that the waistband is visible. If the
top cannot remain tucked in, it cannot be worn.
 Except for MacArthur logos, no pictures, characters, logos, or print of any kind may be worn
 Small logos are permissible..
 No low-cut or tight fitting shirts, blouses, or tops that show the stomach.
 No tube tops, tank tops and sheer clothing that does not have a dress code-approved top underneath.
 No shirts worn as jackets.
 All tops must fit appropriately.
PERSONAL GROOMING ITEMS
 Personal grooming items must be kept in the student’s purse, backpack, or locker and can only be used
in the restroom or P.E. locker room.
 Lightly applied blush on cheeks, black/brown mascara, and non-colored chap stick may be worn. No
other makeup items are acceptable.
 No white-tipped acrylic nails (natural only).
 Clear nail polish may be worn. Nails, natural or artificial, can be no longer than ¼ inch above the
fingertips.
27
HATS, SUNGLASSES, JEWELRY AND EARRINGS
 Earrings should be no more than 1 inch in length and no more than 2 per ear.
 No body piercing.
 No jewelry that is dangerous or distracting.
 No bandanas, curlers, hairnets or headbands across the forehead
 Pre-approved plain hats or visors, in white, black, or gold, are allowed for outdoor use only.
GENERAL ITEMS
 No tattoos or writing on the body.
 No oversized, baggy clothing.
FOR STUDENTS NOT ON WAIVER
GUIDELINES FOR STUDENTS WEARING UNIFORMS
Tops:
Any solid colored top with sleeves and a collar, tucked in at the waist so that the waistband is visible.
Bottoms: Navy Blue, black and Khaki colored pants and shorts (boys and girls); skirts, culottes, skorts (girls).
No jeans
Plain (no logo or design) jackets, sweaters, and sweatshirts.
SPECIAL NOTES






District Policy states that uniforms are mandatory. If this causes a financial hardship, parents may sign a
waiver in the school office. We do, however, strongly recommend uniforms.
As with all school rules, the Dress Code will be enforced while students travel to school, are at school
and on the way home. Students must also follow the Dress Code at all school-related field trips and
activities.
If students come dressed or groomed (haircut, etc.) inappropriately, parents may be called to bring a
change of clothes or take the student home to change or have a hairstyle corrected. VIOLATIONS OF
THE DRESS CODE WILL RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY ACTION.
Since it is not possible to include every style, trend, or haircut in the Dress Code, those items that are
not specifically mentioned will be dealt with on an individual basis.
As fashion trends change, there may be a need to modify the Dress Code. When this occurs, parents
will be notified in the Parent Newsletter. Students, please call the school at (714) 513-9819, between
8:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. for clarification prior to a clothing purchase or hair appointment, or bring the
clothing to school for approval.
The Administrative Staff will make final interpretation of the Dress Code.
DRESS CODE VIOLATIONS
Students who choose to disobey either the Uniform Policy or the MacArthur Dress Code will receive one or
more of the following consequences: warning, campus clean-up, detention, Saturday Work Program,
suspension, and/or removal from MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School. Please note the
seriousness of consequences 4, 5, 6 and 7.
4th DRESS CODE VIOLATION: Loss of waiver,; return to uniform
5th DRESS CODE VIOLATION: Saturday Work Program
6th DRESS CODE VIOLATION: 2-day suspension from school
7th DRESS CODE VIOLATION: Return to home school
28
These are some examples of dress code violations:
\
Too Revealing
Midriff showing
Too short
Underwear showing
Pajamas
Inappropriate logo
Hats, caps, etc.
Inappropriate logo
Chains, spikes, etc.
29
Section IV: STUDENT DISCIPLINE
Part of the MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School philosophy is that academics are
stressed and that students will dress appropriately for school. It is also expected that students will
be in class in their seats with all materials ready when the tardy bell rings. When students fail to
meet these expectations, consequences arise. Listed below are the consequences that students
face for missing or incomplete assignments, tardies to class, and dress code violations.
The MacArthur Discipline Plan is reviewed annually by the Discipline Committee. If periodic
changes are made, parents will be notified in writing.
ASSIGNMENT CARDS: each teacher, to help monitor students who fail to turn in completed class
assignments or homework, keeps these cards. Below are the consequences that students face when
they do not finish their assigned work. Tasks such as failure to cover books or get a parent signature
will result in a teacher detention or other classroom consequence.
1st time:
2nd time:
3rd time
4th time:
5th time:
6th time:
Teacher/Student conference
Teacher Consequence (Call to parent or Parent Homework form sent home)
30-minute detention after school, Parent Contact (form sent home)
60-minute detention after school, Parent Contact
Saturday School/Agenda Contract w. Counselor/Parent Contact
Saturday School/Administrator/Parent contact
TARDY CARDS: These cards are kept by each teacher to help monitor students who are not in
class and in their seats with all books and materials when the bell rings. Below are the
consequences students face when they are tardy to class.
1st tardy:
2nd tardy:
3rd tardy:
4th tardy:
5th tardy:
6th tardy:
7th tardy:
8th tardy:
Warning
Student/Teacher conference
15 minute before school detention
30 minute after school detention
60 minute after school detention
Counselor/Parent contact/Saturday Work Program or Saturday School
Administrator/Parent contact/Saturday Work Program or Saturday School
Referral to Discipline Committee. Possible referral to S.A.R.B.
DRESS CODE VIOLATIONS: Dress code violations are recorded for the entire school year. Parents
are notified of dress code violations by a form that the student brings home for parent signature.
Listed below are the consequences students face when they violate the Dress Code Policy:
1st time:
2nd time:
3rd time:
4th time:
5th time:
6th time:
7th time:
Warning (it will be recorded as a violation but no consequence)
Campus Clean Up (this counts as a detention)
30-minute detention
60-minute detention, administrator sends letter home notifying parents; student
must return to wearing uniform
Saturday Work Program and student must return to wearing uniform
2-day suspension from school
Return to home school
30
AFTER SCHOOL DETENTION
After school detention ranges from 30 to 60 minutes. Detentions are intended to serve as a
disciplinary aid in improving student’s behavior, tardiness, and completion of class work. Students
are required to work on homework while in detention. Students are required to return all
discipline forms to the Discipline Office BEFORE SCHOOL STARTS. Detentions are
doubled if students fail to return the form at the appropriate time.
Students assigned to detention must adhere to the following rules:
1. Student must attend on the day he/she has been assigned. Just as parents
arrange for regular transportation during the week, it will be the parent’s responsibility to
make arrangements when his/her child has detention.
2. There is no talking, standing up, or moving around during detention without teacher
permission.
3. Students are to follow the directions of the detention teacher.
4. No one will be excused without permission.
5. Each student assigned to detention is expected to take care of all personal needs before
he/she enters detention.
6. The teacher may assign specific seats in detention and specific instructions must be
followed.
7. Students assigned to detention must bring schoolbooks and work material to detention.
8. Students who have finished assigned homework will be expected to finish the detention by
reading appropriate books. Comic books, teen magazines, etc., are not to be brought to
detention.
9. Students will not be allowed to go to their locker once they have reported to detention.
10. Students who create a disturbance in detention or do not follow the teacher’s directions will
be asked to leave. Teacher discretion is the determining factor. If asked to leave, the
amount of time assigned to detention will be doubled.
11. Students must be on time to detention. Any student who reports late will be considered a
no-show and his/her time will be doubled.
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SATURDAY WORK PROGRAM
This program is held Saturday mornings from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Parents will be notified
in advance as to the date a student is to attend Saturday Work Program. All forms must be turned
in to the discipline office before school or there will be an additional 60 minute detention
assigned. It will be the responsibility of the parent of each student assigned to Saturday Work
Program to make arrangements for their child’s transportation.
Students assigned to Saturday Work Program must adhere to the following rules:
1. The student must attend on the day he/she has been assigned. Just as
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
parents arrange for regular transportation during the week, it will be the parent’s
responsibility to make arrangements when his/her child has detention.
Any student not at school by 8:30 a.m. for Saturday Work Program will be considered
absent and sent home. If you arrive at 8:31, it is too late and your student will
be sent home. The student must be picked up no later than 12:00 p.m. If he/she
is not picked up by 12:10 p.m., an additional consequence will be assigned to the
student.
No one will be released from Saturday Work Program without parent/guardian permission.
Failure to attend Saturday Work Program will result in reassignment, doubling the time,
and/or further disciplinary action.
Students must stay within dress code while attending Saturday Work Program.
Students must follow the directions of the MacArthur staff.
SATURDAY SCHOOL:
Saturday School starts at 8:00 a.m. and ends at 12:10 p.m. Parents will be
notified in advance as to the date a student is to attend Saturday School. All forms must be turned
in to the discipline office before school or there will be an additional 60 minute detention
assigned. It will be the responsibility of the parent of each student assigned to Saturday School to
make arrangements for their child’s transportation.
Students assigned to Saturday School must adhere to the following rules:
1. The student must attend on the day he/she has been assigned. Just as
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
parents arrange for regular transportation during the week, it will be the parent’s responsibility
to make arrangements when his/her child has detention.
Any student not at school by 8:00 a.m. for Saturday School will be considered absent and
sent home. If a student arrives at 8:01, that is too late and he/she will be sent home and
reassigned their Saturday School and receive a Saturday Work Program consequence..
Likewise, if the student is not picked up by 12:20 p.m., he/she will receive an additional
consequence.
No one will be released from Saturday School without parent/guardian permission.
Failure to attend Saturday School may result in reassignment, an additional Saturday School,
and/or further disciplinary action.
Students must stay within dress code while attending Saturday School.
Students must follow the directions of the MacArthur staff.
Students must bring their 3-ring binder, Agenda, school supplies and a Reading Counts book
with them. Additional work will be assigned to students.
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SUSPENSIONS
There are times that, because of the seriousness of the offense, a student must be
suspended from school. When this happens, the following conditions are in effect:
1. The student is in complete custody and jurisdiction of his parents or legal guardian during
the entire period of suspension.
2. The student may not be on the campus of any school in the Santa Ana Unified School
District during school or non-school hours while suspended.
3. A student may not return to school from a suspension until a parent has met with a school
administrator.
Students who are suspended will be placed on probation and run the risk of being
Returned to their neighborhood school.
DISCIPLINE PROBATION
An inherent part of MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School is its consistent and
active enforcement of the school rules. Should a student be referred to the office on a regular
basis without showing signs of a significant effort to improve, the student will be placed on
probation. This step is taken after the school staff has made repeated efforts to work with both
the student and the parent. A letter will inform the parent that the student has been placed on
probation. If significant improvement and effort is not made, the student may be
immediately transferred to their neighborhood school or transferred to their neighborhood
school at the end of the school year.
Student discipline probation files are reviewed at the end of each quarter. Those students
who have shown improvement will be allowed to remain at MacArthur. The school counselors
and assistant principals review the files and make recommendations to the principal. Should the
student be transferred to their neighborhood school at the end of the school year, parents will be
notified by return receipt mail.
EIGHTH GRADE 4th QUARTER DISCIPLINE
Each spring, a progressive discipline program is implemented specifically designed to help
the eighth grade students complete the year on a positive and successful note. During the third
quarter, all eighth grade students will attend a special meeting where this information will be clearly
explained. Students and parents will also receive a handout which indicates the progressive
discipline program used and the privileges/activities which eighth grade students are eligible to
attend or may become ineligible to attend if they do not follow the rules of the school. To ensure
that parents are aware of this program, this handout requires a parent signature. Two parent
meetings will be scheduled to review the same information.
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Section V: STUDENT ACTIVITIES
MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School has a proud and rich history of offering
students a variety of co-curricular and extra-curricular activities to students who are eligible
to participate. Students are encouraged to participate in programs, activities, and clubs
that contribute to their social and emotional growth. Activities will be structured so as to
improve peer interaction and character development.
STANDARDS FOR ELIGIBILITY
In order to represent the school in any public contest, performance, athletics, or to be
A member of student government, a pupil must maintain a 2.0 grade point average and
only S’s and O’s for the previous and present grading period or semester. Weekly school
eligibility standards will be imposed on all students participating in athletic and co-curricular
activities.
If a student is absent from school, he/she will not be allowed to perform in any
School-sponsored activity that afternoon or evening. A student must attend school at least
½ day or more to participate in the day’s event.
STUDENT GOVERNMENT: LEADERSHIP
Student government provides an opportunity for students to participate in the affairs
of their school and to become involved in the decision-making process. The MacArthur
Student Council is composed of both elected and appointed members from the student
body and serves as a representative of the student body in determining school activities
and appropriate school functions.
Elections are held at the end of the school year and members will serve for one year.
A copy of the MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School Student Body Constitution can
be found in Appendix A at the back of this handbook.
ATHLETIC PROGRAM
MacArthur offers a complete intramural athletic program for boys and girls, with
participation based upon individual interest and eligibility standards. In order to participate
in the program, students must demonstrate good citizenship (no N’s or U’s) and maintain a
C average. Tryouts are held for all interested 6 th, 7th, and 8th graders during the first
weeks of the various sports. Coaches determine team membership. Good sportsmanship
Is stressed and outstanding performances are recognized at quarterly Awards Assemblies.
All practices and games are after school
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SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
Students have the opportunity to join a variety of school-sponsored clubs and
organizations. Such clubs function through student leadership under the direction and
advisorship of a staff member. There are two categories of school clubs:
Academic activities are designed to meet the needs of pupils interested in
academic areas
Special interest activities are designed around some activity in which there is
strong student interest
Although each new year brings new clubs, the following clubs have been active at
MacArthur:
All Stars Club
Art Ecology Club
Astronomy Club
Boardriding Club
Book Club
CA Jr. Scholarship Federation
Catholic Club
Celebrity Fan Mail Club
Chess Club
Christian Club
Computer Club
Dance Club
Diplomacy Club
Drama Club
Fishing Club
Gardening Club
Ham Radio Club
Library Service Club
Magic Club
M.E.S.A. Club
Recycling Club
Spanish Club
Sport Climbing Club
VIP Club
others as student interest surfaces
STUDENT AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
MacArthur takes great pride in recognizing and rewarding students for positive
participation and achievement throughout the school year. Listed below are the major
awards students may strive to achieve. Other awards are presented over the course
of the year depending on opportunities that become available.
ACADEMIC AWARDS:
Valedictorian: The 8th grade student(s) who has the highest academic and citizenship
achievement will receive this award at the promotion ceremony.
Spirit, Pride, Achievement: Presented to two 8th grade students at promotion who best
exemplify the school’s motto.
Outstanding Effort: Presented to 8th grade students at promotion who go above and
beyond their peers to learn and to be successful in school.
U.S.S. Antietam Award: Presented at promotion to one 8th grade student in math and one
in science for academic excellence in the respective categories.
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C.J.S.F.: Recognition is awarded through a point system specified by the California
Scholarship Federation State Constitution.
Students of the Year: Presented at promotion to those 8th grade students who are selected
by teachers and administrators as outstanding students in each department.
Honor Roll: Any student who earns a 3.0 to 3.82 grade point average with no “N” or “U”
citizenship grades at the semester grading period is an Honor Roll student.
Seventh Grade Guides: The four seventh grade students with the highest grade point
average and no “N’s” or “U’s” on their report cards will be selected to lead the eighth grade
class at the promotion ceremony.
Principal’s List: Any student who earns a 3.83 to 4.0 grade point average based on a 7period day with no “N” or “U” citizenship grades at the semester grading period is a
member of the Principal’s List.
Perfect Attendance: Presented to any student at the end of the school year who has no
more than four excused period absences for the entire year. In order to receive this award,
students must have no unexcused tardies.
Science Fair Awards: Presented to those students whose science projects are selected as
winners in the school’s annual Science Fair.
President’s Award for Academic Excellence: Presidential award given to students based
on criteria established by the President’s Council on Academic Fitness.
Musicians’ Awards: Awards presented to those students who distinguish themselves in the
vocal and instrumental music programs.
Million Word Readers: Students who have passed Reading Counts quizzes for over one
million words are recognized at MacArthur Awards Ceremonies.
All Stars Award: Presented to students who excel in spirit, pride and achievement.
Students are required to receive honors in a specified number of areas in order to qualify.
William Spurgeon IV Award: Presented at promotion to the 8th grade student for academic
excellence in history.
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ATHLETIC AWARDS:
Physical Fitness: Presidential award given to students based on criteria established by the
President’s Council on Physical Fitness.
Scholar/Athlete: Presented to one 8th grade boy and one 8th grade girl at promotion.
The recipients of this award best exemplify the characteristics of academic excellence and
athletic accomplishment. The winners are selected by the girls’ and boys’ athletic directors.
Athletic Awards: Presented to the player who contributes the most to the team’s
success, the player who has demonstrated the most positive and supportive attitude, and
the player who has most successfully improved his/her skill level and performance. These
students are selected by the teams’ coaches.
Athlete of the Year: Presented to the boy and girl (usually 8th grade) who best exemplify
the standards and philosophy of the athletic department. Selection is made by the athletic
department teachers.
CITIZENSHIP AWARDS:
V.I.P. Club: Awarded to students who have all “O’s” in citizenship at the end of each
semester.
Student of the Month: Each teacher is allowed to select one student from his/her class
each month. The teachers select from a different class period each month.
Tiger Ticket Winner: Presented to any student who is “caught being good” by a teacher,
counselor, administrator, secretary, security guard, or noon activity supervisor. There is a
special drawing held once a month for prizes. Students receiving a Tiger Ticket have an
instant award which gives them a font-of-the-lunch line pass.
All Stars: All Star tee shirts are presented to students who participate in a variety of
activities throughout the school year. All Star signature sheets and requirements are
handed to students during the first month of school.
SPIRIT ACTIVITIES
Many activities are planned throughout the year to promote school spirit and positive
social interaction. Some of these activities include the following: dances, field trips, book
fairs, COTY (Class of the Year) competitions, assemblies, pep rallies, drama productions
and intramural sports activities at lunch. Students are highly encouraged to participate and
join in the fun.
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Section VI: SCHOOL SERVICES
COUNSELING
The school counselor is available to assist students in resolving any academic and/or
personal problems which might arise. We also offer the opportunity for students to meet in groups
to discuss challenges, good decision-making, and social skills,
It is important for parents to speak to counselors if there are home issues that may be
affecting your child’s performance at school.
ATTENDANCE
Should a student move during the school year, the school requires a verification of the new address. Call
(714) 513-9890 for further information.
Please note that many Santa Ana addresses are inside the city of Santa Ana but still outside
the Santa Ana Unified School District boundaries.
Part of the MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School philosophy is that regular school
attendance is critical to a student’s academic success. Reasons for this include the following:
 It contributes to high achievement and academic success
 It contributes to the high characteristics of responsible citizenship
Presentation and discussion of new material occurs during class time and therefore it cannot
easily be duplicated at home. Research has revealed that students who miss school regularly find
it difficult to be successful academically.
If at all possible, please schedule all appointments outside the school day. If an
appointment must be made during school hours, the student is expected to be in school before
and after the appointment. Students who remain away from school for the entire day will be
assigned Saturday School.
In addition, vacations should be taken when school is not in session. Vacations taken during the
school year are considered to be unexcused absences.
Students with an unexcused absence will be assigned Saturday School.
Parents play an important role in developing sound attitudes about school attendance and
good citizenship. You are encouraged to work cooperatively with teachers to positively influence
pupil attendance, citizenship, and achievement.
ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES
Students must be punctual and attend all classes. When a student is not at school, a telephone
call from the parent explaining the student’s absence is required. Students will be assigned Saturday
School Program for unexcused absences and tardies. Repeated unexcused absences or tardies will
result in disciplinary action or transfer from school. Illness, court appearance, or death of a family
member are excused absences.
When a student is absent from school, please follow these procedures:
1. Parents are asked to call the school on the morning a student is absent. Call 513-9888.
You are welcome to speak in English or Spanish when calling the message machine.
Please make a note of this number! Do not call the main office number for
attendance issues. If a phone call or personal contact has not been made, upon
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returning to school, students must have a note from the parent giving dates of and
reasons for the absence.
2. Readmit Slips: Upon receipt of a valid note or phone contact from the parent, the student
will be issued a Readmit Slip, before school, for presentation to each teacher whose class
he/she missed. The student is required to be in class on time, at 7:57 a.m., with the
Readmit Slip in hand for each teacher to sign. A tardy will be given to a student if the
Readmit Slip is not picked up from the Attendance Office BEFORE class.
EARLY RELEASE
In emergencies, when a student must leave before the regular release time, a telephone call
one hour in advance or a note in advance is requested.
ADDRESS CHANGES
Should a student move during the school year, the school requires a verification
of the new address. Call 714.513.9890 for further information.
Physical Education EXCUSES
Students are expected to participate in P.E. every day. A student may be excused from an
activity if a written excuse signed by the parent is given to the teacher. This excuse is valid for no
more than three consecutive days. To be excused for a period longer than three days a written
statement from the doctor is required.
MAKE-UP HOMEWORK POLICY
Upon returning to school, students are expected to make up missed work, due
to any type of absence, regardless of the reason.
Parents may call 513-9890 to request homework assignments for students who will be
absent three (3) days or more. After asking for the homework, please allow twenty-four (24)
hours for teachers to respond to requests. Parents may pick up the assignments at the
Attendance Office.
If the homework has not been issued during the absence, it is the student’s responsibility to
ask for the missed work from each teacher when they return to school. Any work not made up will
count against a student’s grade.
CLOSED CAMPUS
Students are required to remain on campus during the entire period of required attendance at
school. Permission to leave campus during school hours will be granted only upon request of a
parent or legal guardian, the school nurse, or administrator. To be excused during school hours, a
note from a parent must be presented to the attendance technician before school. Students who
leave campus without permission will be considered truant and will be assigned detention or
Saturday School Program. Students leaving campus must be signed out by the parent picking
them up at the designated time.
Parents are asked to sign in at the Main Office before coming on campus at any time.
Your cooperation is appreciated.
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EMERGENCY DRILLS
These monthly drills are required by law and are an important safety precaution. It is
essential that when the first signal is given, students obey orders promptly and clear the building
by the prescribed route as quickly as possible or, in the event of an earthquake, when safe to do
so. Students are required to remain quiet and attentive in order to receive necessary instructions.
Consequences will be assigned to students who do not follow the directions of any staff member.
FOOD SERVICES
Students who wish to purchase lunch tickets for one or two weeks may do so before school
in the cafeteria. Checks are accepted payable to “Food Service.” You may call the school for food
prices. A choice of entrees is provided daily or students may order a la carte. Snack items (milk,
chips, fruit, etc.) may be purchased separately from the snack line. All students are expected to
demonstrate appropriate manners and clean up after themselves.
The cafeteria is unable to make change for bills over $10.00. Please do not send large bills
to school with your child for lunch money. The school is unable to give your child change for these
bills.
HEALTH SERVICES
The school nurse, a member of the school faculty, serves as a health consultant. The health
aide is an assistant to the nurse and is here everyday to render first aid and consult with the nurse.
Vision screening is done for 6th grade students, and hearing screening tests are provided for 8th
grade students. Recheck tests are done if the screening is questionable. Parents or guardians are
informed when a student fails two screenings. Students may also be screened by parent/teacher
request. Scoliosis screening is also conducted according to state requirements. This involves 7th
grade girls and 8th grade boys. Information is sent home prior to screening. Parents are notified of
problems noted during screening.
California State law stipulates that each student enrolled in a public school must have on file
in school office a record of immunization against polio, diphtheria, tetanus, measles, mumps and
rubella and Hepatitis B. The school should be notified or informed of any physical condition or
defect that could have an effect upon the student’s well being and/or general health. Modification
of the regular school program because of physical limitations is sometimes indicated and
recommendations are made by the nurse. Doctor notes are encouraged to validate health
problems. Doctor notes are required for P.E. absences over three (3) days.
The school health office provides emergency first aid to students for accidents or sudden
illnesses which occur at school. Students must report to the health office with their agenda and a
hall pass. Students are not to visit the health office between periods. Students must check in with
their teacher and have a pass before going to the health office. Students are not to call parents
when ill; health office personnel will notify parents. The student must be evaluated first in the
health office before parents are called.
STUDENT MEDICATION
If a student is required to receive medication (including “over the counter” medicine) while
at school, a written request from the parent/guardian as well as from the doctor must be on
file with the school office. Parents are to provide the required medication in the labeled
pharmacy container with the student’s full name clearly labeled on it. Any “over the counter”
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medication must be in the original packaging labeled with the student’s full name. All
medications must be turned in to the health office. Students are not to be in possession of
any medication while on campus. Medication forms are available from the health office and
should be obtained prior to the doctor visit whenever possible.
The school should also be notified if a student is on any regular medication regardless of
whether it is administered at school.
ITEMS DELIVERED BY PARENTS
Personal items (homework, P.E. Clothes, food, etc.) will not be delivered to students except
in case of emergency.
It is the policy of the school district that we cannot accept flowers and/or balloon bouquets
sent to students. Please make sure your family and friends are aware of this procedure.
LIBRARY
The library will be open before school, during nutrition, during lunch, and after school for
student use. The exception to this is Monday at lunch when the library is closed. Students are
expected to conduct themselves in a quiet, orderly, and respectful manner at all times while in the
library. Lunchtime is SILENT.
LOCKERS
Lockers are provided for students to use for storing schoolbooks and backpacks. Students
who wish to use a locker must sign a locker contract at the beginning of each school year. Locker
combinations MUST NOT be given out to ANY other student.
Due to a locker shortage, siblings may be asked to share lockers. Otherwise, lockers cannot
be shared. If it is discovered that a student is sharing a locker, the student will lose the privilege of
having a locker. This privilege may also be taken away in the event of misuse, opening another
student’s locker, or writing on or vandalizing a locker. These actions could also lead to a student being
arrested.
The student’s locker combination and contents are the student’s responsibility. The school
district or school is not responsible for items damaged, lost, or stolen, regardless of the cause,
including weather. STUDENTS USE LOCKERS AT THEIR OWN RISK.
Before leaving your locker, check to see that it is tightly closed and locked. Turn the dial to
make sure it will not open. Careful planning of trips to your locker will help you save time
between classes. No special locks are permitted. Use only the lock that is sold by the school.
Students are asked not to store food or valuables in lockers overnight. It is possible that water
can enter a locker due to heavy rains.
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LOST AND FOUND
Parents should be sure to have proper identification on articles of clothing and all personal
property. Students are expected to write their names as well as the teacher’s name IN INK in
textbooks and other school materials. The school is not responsible for lost or damaged articles.
All lost items my be claimed before school, at lunch, nutrition or after school. Clothing items are
kept in the Student Activities Room. At the end of each month, all clothing items that have not
been claimed are donated to charity. Lost items, other than clothing, are kept in the library. Lost
textbooks are placed in the appropriate teachers’ mailboxes.
OFFICE PROCEDURES AND MANNERS
Students must have a pass to enter the office. Students who are in the office are expected to
conduct their business courteously, promptly, and quietly. Students will have a pass time-stamped
when they leave the office. Students do not exit the campus through the office at the end of the
school day.
PASSES
Students must have a pass any time they are outside of the classroom during regular
instruction time. Failure to do so may result in a consequence.
PERSONAL OBJECTS ON CAMPUS
Students should not bring personal objects onto the campus unless they are related to the
instructional program. The following personal objects cannot be brought to school:

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



Radios, cameras, computer games, tape/CD recorders or other electronic devices
With the exception of handballs, all other balls, bats, or similar equipment, unless required
for a P.E. class
Hair spray
Toys, pogs, stuffed animals, Pokemon cards, etc.
Trading Cards or playing cards
Marking pens (markers), highlighters, or Liquid Paper (white-out)
Pupils bringing personal objects on campus will have them confiscated. Parents may claim
the student’s property through the school office. The school is not responsible if the student loses
personal objects that are brought on campus.
Cell phones are to be used for emergency purposes only. They must be turned off
completely during school hours. This includes having the cell phone on vibrate. Cell phones
may no be visible. They must remain in the student’s backpack while the student is at school. If
these requirements are violated, the phone will be confiscated. Students may not turn their phones on
until they reach the park or the street.
PFO
The MacArthur PFO (Parent Faculty Organization) is the official MacArthur parent organization.
The goal of the PFO is to support the school in its efforts to provide a quality education for all students.
This supports MacArthur Fundamental through:
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


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parent education workshops
volunteer help to the school
financial assistance provided through fundraisers
sponsoring special events
gathering community input and feedback
sponsoring student awards
All parents are welcome and encouraged to participate. The membership drive takes place in
September but parents can join at any time. Meetings are held in the evenings in order to involve
more parents actively in the life of the school. Meetings are informal, last about an hour, and are
devoted to information about the school and its programs, information about upcoming events, and
decision making for future activities. Please joint the PFO.
SCHOOL COMMUNICATIONS
All information sent home is three-hole punched and students are
instructed and expected to place parent information in the 1st Period section
of their notebook. Monthly calendars of events are sent home.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU CHECK FOR ANY HANDOUTS ON A
REGULAR BASIS. Look in your student’s binder in the 1st Period section
for handouts each week.
SPECIAL SERVICES
The school has the services of a speech/language therapist and a school psychologist for
students who require these services. Students experiencing academic or behavioral difficulties
may be referred to the Student Success Team. This team will meet with the student, parents,
teachers, and counselor to discuss strategies and design an improvement plan that will help the
student become more successful. Teachers, parents, and the counselor may refer a student to
the team at any time.
STUDENT SERVICES CENTER
The Student Services Center is equipped to handle all student business. Should you have
any scheduling, counseling, attendance problems or discipline referrals, you are to report to the
Student Services Center. The Student Services Center is located in the middle of the curved
administration building next to the attendance window.
Parents are encouraged to come in for conferences, information, and assistance for their
student. The assistant principals and counselors are responsible for scheduling, counseling, and
discipline and will make every attempt to assist you with your concerns. We encourage you to
make an appointment ahead of time, with the person you want to see.
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STUDENT IDENTIFICATION CARDS
All students will be issued a Student Identification Card with the student’s picture on the card. Students
are required to carry this I.D. card at all times while on campus and are obligated to present this card to
any school teacher, administrator, or staff member upon request. Students are also required to present
their I.D. card for admittance to after school activities and the computer
lab Should a student lose their I.D. card, a new one can be made for $3.00.
STUDENT USE OF TECHNOLOGY
Students use the Computer Lab/Mac Lab during their language arts, science, and social
science classes. In addition, students in journalism and yearbook classes use computers to
produce campus publications. Students may also use the Mac Lab outside of the school day
or specified time. All computers in the Mac Lab are linked to the Internet.
At the beginning of the school year students receive permission slips for parents to sign
to allow students to use computers at MacArthur. Students desiring access to the internet
must pass a test and have written parental permission. Students receive a sticker that is
placed on their I.D. card, indicating that they may use the internet.
IF A STUDENT DOES NOT HAVE HIS/HER I.D. CARD, HE/SHE WILL NOT BE ALLOWED
TO USE A COMPUTER. Students who abuse the computers or who do not follow the directions of the
teacher supervising the lab lose the privilege of using the computers and may have additional
consequences.
TELEPHONE
The pay telephone at the front of the school may be used before and after school. During nutrition
and lunch, students must check out the phone pass that is located in the Attendance
Office. Students are allowed a maximum of 5 minutes at the phone. If the maximum time is exceeded,
students will be given 2 days campus clean up. The pass must be returned to the Attendance Office and
not passed to another student—otherwise a detention will be given.
Students who do not have money to make a call are to use the pay telephone by calling their party
collect. USE OF THE PAY PHONE IS PROHIBITED DURING CLASS TIME.
The office telephone is not to be used by students except in the case of
emergencies. Leaving P.E. clothes, assignments, or other items at home is not
considered an emergency.
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TEXTBOOKS AND LIBRARY BOOKS
Textbooks and library books are provided for each student. Students are responsible for
returning the books in good condition. Students assume responsibility for all books issued to
them and must pay for lost or damaged books
and overdue fines, regardless of the cause. Each student must clear his/her textbook or library record
before grades will be issued or school functions can be attended. ALL TEXTBOOKS MUST BE
COVERED WITH APPROPRIATE PROTECTIVE MATERIAL. No Sticky Covers
Library books may be checked out for a period of two weeks and may be renewed if brought
in before the due date has passed. Reference material may be checked out overnight, only.
Overdue fines are 10 cents per day for the first 5 days, 25 cents per day for the next 5 days, and
50 cents per day thereafter. Reference books are 25 cents per day. Full replacement price will be
charged for all lost books.
TRANSPORTATION
MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School is an alternative school-of-choice and its boundaries
are the Santa Ana Unified School District attendance boundaries. Students throughout the District may
enter a lottery from which the student body is randomly selected. Transportation is the responsibility of
the parents.
ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES
The safety of our students is very important to us. To help ensure student’s safety,
crossing guards are on duty before and after school. Please respect the difficult job they
have. To provide for the safety of our students and to alleviate traffic congestion in front of
the school, we also request that you comply with the following:
1. Please be careful when dropping off and picking up your students. Illegal stopping, parking,
or improper U-turns can be cited by the Santa Ana Police Department.
2. Our MacArthur security officer will issue parking tickets to illegally parked cars within
our parking lot. Parents may park only in the spots labeled “Visitor Parking.”
3. Students are not to cross the street directly in front of the school. They must cross
only at an intersection or a marked crosswalk. There are two crosswalks: one at
Flower Street and one at Bradford Place.
4. Students are to be picked up promptly at dismissal at 2:30 p.m. on regular
School days, or at 1:10 p.m. on Modified Days.
5. Students waiting for rides after 3:00 p.m. will receive a warning notice to parents.
Consequences will be assigned if a pattern of late pick-ups continues. Staff will not
be responsible for those students who leave campus.
6. For any after-school programs or events, the parking lot will be open after 3:00 p.m.
7. The school office closes at 4:30 p.m.
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CAR POOLS
Parents are encouraged to form their own car pools. Check with the school office; there
may be a listing of parents interested in car-pooling.
OCTD
The Orange County Transit District has several routes
which bring students to and from school. Information regarding
prices and routes can be obtained by calling OCTD at 636-RIDE.
BICYCLES
At the beginning of the year students must register their bicycles with Mrs. Weaver, the assistant
principal. The school provides a locked bicycle compound. Students are required to lock their own
bicycles to the bike rack (never to another person’s bicycle.) Bicycles are not to be ridden
anywhere on campus: they must be walked to the bicycle compound. Repeated violators can be
referred to the office.
Bicyclists are reminded they are responsible for obeying all traffic regulations. Because of the
heavy, fast flow of traffic on Flower Street, students should not ride their bicycles on the school
side of Flower Street. Students must wear safety bicycle helmets. Please use caution while
riding to and from school.
SPECIAL NOTE: The Santa Ana Unified School District is NOT responsible for property that is
damaged, lost, or stolen as a result of parking bicycles and other property in the bicycle compound.
46
APPENDIX A
DOUGLAS MACARTHUR FUNDAMENTAL INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL
STUDENT BODY CONSTITUTION
PREAMBLE
We, the Associated Student body of Douglas MacArthur Intermediate School, in order to
promote and uphold the academic and social principles of this school, to foster a spirit of
cooperation, to promote and encourage activities in the best interest of the student, school
and community, do hereby establish this constitution of Douglas MacArthur Fundamental
Intermediate School.
ARTICLE I - NAME
The official name of this organization shall be the Associated Student Body of Douglas
MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School.
ARTICLE II - PURPOSE
SECTION 1:
The purpose of this organization is to promote school spirit, to encourage and
support helpful school activities, and to cooperate with the faculty and school administration in all
matters pertaining to the welfare of our school.
SECTION 2:
School spirit is understood to be a willingness to support all school matters
pertaining to the welfare of students, as well as a liberal support of all school activities.
ARTICLE III - MEMBERSHIP
SECTION 1:
Any student regularly enrolled in Douglas MacArthur Fundamental
Intermediate School shall be considered a member of the Associated Student Body and shall
have all constitutional privileges unless otherwise specified.
SECTION 2:
All members of the faculty of Douglas MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate
School shall be considered honorary members of this organization.
SECTION 3:
Any other honorary membership in the Associated Student Body of Douglas
MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School may be conferred by a majority vote of the
Student Council.
ARTICLE IV - STUDENT COUNCIL
SECTION 1:
The executive and legislative powers of the Associated Student Body shall
be vested in the Student Council.
SECTION 2:
The Student Council shall have charge of the following:
a). Legislative power and the execution of any legislation created by the
Associated Student Body.
b). All activities of the Associated Student Body.
c). All Associated Student body meetings.
d). The confirmation of all appointments and approval of the establishment
of new clubs on campus.
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e). Associated Student Body funds with approval of the Student Council
advisor and school administration.
SECTION 3:
All members of the Student Council shall have regular voting privileges with
the exception of the ASB president.
SECTION 4:
The ASB president shall vote only to break a tie or to make a 2/3 vote.
SECTION 5:
The principal shall designate a member of the faculty to sit on the Board of
Control. This person will be referred to as the Student Council Advisor.
ARTICLE V - STUDENT COUNCIL OFFICERS
SECTION 1:
Officers of this organization shall be: President, Vice President,
Secretary/Treasurer, Student Activities Chairperson, Student Relations Chairperson,
Academic Affairs Chairperson, Publicity Chairperson, School Service Chairperson, two
Eighth Grade Representatives, two Seventh Grade Representatives, and two Sixth Grade
Representatives.
SECTION 2:
No student shall be elected or appointed to more than one office during a
school year unless by special appointment by the Student Council Advisor.
SECTION 3:
A special appointment shall occur when a Student Council member resigns,
moves, or is removed from office.
BY LAWS
ARTICLE VII - QUALIFICATIONS FOR OFFICE
SECTION 1:
All members of the Associated Student Body who meet the academic and
citizenship requirements for eligibility at Douglas MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School
shall be eligible to hold office in the Student Council.
SECTION 2:
All candidates must have at least a 2.0 grade point average, no “F” grades,
and no “N” or “U” citizenship grades at the grading period preceding the election.
SECTION 3:
All candidates must be interviewed by the Student Council advisor as a
prerequisite to final candidacy approval.
SECTION 4:
All Student Council members are to maintain the election qualifications as
stated in Article VII during their term of office.
ARTICLE VIII - DUTIES OF OFFICERS
SECTION 1:
All ASB (Student Council) officers shall be responsible for carrying out the
duties assigned to them by this Constitution and by the Student Council Advisor, and all adopted
policies concerning said officers.
SECTION 2:
The Student Body President shall:
a)
b)
c)
Be the executive officer of the Student Council
Preside at all Student Council meetings
Have the power to appoint committees, as he/she may deem necessary
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d)
e)
f)
Coordinate all Associated Student Body activities
Be an 8th grade student (elected position)
Represent the best interests of the school and Student Body at all times.
SECTION 3:
The Student Body Vice President shall:
a) Perform all the duties of the president during his/her absence
b) Assume the office of president if the office is vacated
c) Be responsible for any work done on any committees appointed by the
president
d) Be chairman of the Student Congress
e) Be a student in either the 7th or 8th grade (elected position)
SECTION 4:
The Secretary/Treasurer shall:
a) Record the minutes of all Student Council meetings, and post where
designated
b) Assist with correspondence between school student councils
c) Assist the Student Council advisor in maintaining a financial record of all
Student Body transactions
d) Report the financial status of the Student Council and school clubs at all
Student Council meetings
e) Submit to all clubs a copy of their financial status each month
f) Be a student in any grade level (elected position)
SECTION 5:
The Student Activities Chairperson shall assist the Student Council in the
following capacities:
a) Planning all school activities, assemblies, and fund raisers
b) Assist the ASB president, vice president, and advisor in planning elections
c) Assist with the Class-of-the-Year competition
d) Be a member of either the 7th or 8th grade (elected position)
SECTION 6:
The Publicity Chairperson shall:
a) Publicize and communicate to the Student Body all school activities and
athletic contests
b) Keep the Student Council and Student Body bulletin boards updated
c) Organize, with assistance for the Academic Affairs Chairperson, a
Student Council scrapbook
d) Shall be a student in any grade (appointed position)
SECTION 7:
The Student Relations Chairperson shall:
a) Chair the Student Relations Committee composed of the class
representatives
b) Keep the Student Council and Student Body bulletin boards updated
c) Shall be a student in either the 7th or 8th grade (elected position)
SECTION 8:
The Student Relations Committee shall:
a) Be composed of the grade level representatives
b) Survey student interest and opinions regarding school activities and
concerns
c) Coordinate the Class-of-the-Year competition
d) Assist the Student Activities Chairperson with school relations
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e)
f)
Assist with the distribution of school items such as I.D. cards, school
pictures, and yearbooks
Be elected to office
SECTION 9:
The Academic Affairs Chairperson shall:
a) Assist the advisors of academic students such as Honor Roll
b) Organize and post a school calendar
c) Assist the School Service Chairperson with Open House and Back To
School Night
d) Assist with the Student of the Month Program
e) Assist the Publicity Chairperson in organizing and maintaining a Student
Council scrapbook
f)
Be a student in 7th or 8th grade (appointed position)
SECTION 10:
The School Service Chairperson shall:
a) Coordinate Student Council activities associated with Back To School
Night and Open House
b) Assist the Student Activities Chairperson with assemblies and activities
c) Coordinate refreshments for Student Council activities
d) Assist with the dispersal of school pictures, I.D. cards, and other such
items
e) Shall be a student in 7th or 8th grade (appointed position)
ARTICLE IX - ELECTION AND TERM OF OFFICERS; VACANCIES
SECTION 1:
There shall be a general election held in the spring of the school year
preceding the year in which new officers take office.
SECTION 2:
four (4) areas:
A candidate running for a Student Body Officer will be elected based upon
Written Application
(10 points)
Teacher Evaluation
(15 points)
Personal Interview
(25 points)
Student Vote
(50 points)
Total:
100 possible points
SECTION 3:
In case of a tie, a run-off will be held the day following the election, and the
candidate receiving a majority of points will be judged the winner.
SECTION 4:
All eligible incoming 6th grade students will be allowed to run for the 6 th grade
representative position. A special election will be held no later than twenty school days following
the first day of school.
SECTION 5:
If there are no candidates for any given office, the newly elected Student
Council will nominate potential candidates at its first business meeting of the new school term.
SECTION 6:
Prior to the election there will be held a candidate’s speech assembly in which
designated office candidates will present their views to the Student Body.
SECTION 7:
All balloting shall take place only at the designated polling places and only on
the day or days of the election.
50
SECTION 8:
Incoming officers shall be inaugurated in an appropriate manner.
SECTION 9:
Should the office of any ASB officer become vacant, such vacancy will be by
appointment of the Student Council.
SECTION 1:
ARTICLE X - GENERAL PROCEDURES
The Student Council shall meet regularly throughout its term of office.
SECTION 2:
Parliamentary procedures shall be followed in meetings at all times with such
rules and authority of parliamentary procedure as deemed necessary.
SECTION 3:
All records of the Student Council are subject to inspection by all interested
counter-parts, subject to the approval of the Student Council advisor and the ASB presidency.
SECTION 4:
All sessions of the Student Council shall be open to interested faculty and
students with prior approval of the Student Council advisor.
SECTION 5:
Constitution.
The Student Council must, at all times, abide by the Associated Student Body
SECTION 6:
A majority of the Student Council membership and the presence of the advisor
shall constitute a quorum.
SECTION 7:
All members of the Student Council shall have equal voting privileges except
for the ASB president who votes in case of a tie vote.
SECTION 1:
ARTICLE XI - CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
Any group of students may petition to organize a club.
SECTION 2:
The signature of these students, together with a statement of their purpose in
organizing the club, shall appear on the petition which they present to the Student Council at any
regular meeting. A petition may be picked up in the Student Activities room.
SECTION 3:
The Student Council shall take request under consideration and act at a
regular business meeting. Majority vote is necessary in order to ratify a request.
SECTION 4:
The request is subject to the final approval of the principal.
SECTION 5:
If approved, the club shall become duly constituted as an organization as well
as governed by all regulations which apply to clubs.
SECTION 6:
administration:
The following actions may be taken by the Student Council and/or the school
a)
They may place a club on probation to warn the organization in question
that it shall be under observation for a stipulated period of time due to an
infraction of constitutional or policy requirement.
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b) They may suspend an organization that is on probation for failure to
comply with constitutional requirement or organizational behavior. During
this probation period, if another fraction of rules occurs, the club’s charter
may be revoked.
c) They may declare the charter of an organization in question null and void
and to completely disband the organization’s activities and declare further
activity of the organization unconstitutional.
ARTICLE XII - IMPEACHMENT, PROBATION, SUSPENSION, REMOVAL FROM OFFICE
SECTION 1:
Any Student Council member may have impeachment charges filed against
him/her at any time.
SECTION 2:
Council.
A written statement of charges must be filed with the advisor to the Student
SECTION 3:
Grounds for impeachment will be:
a) Dishonesty
b) Incompetence
c) Evident unfitness for service
d) Lack of commitment
e) Violation of the Constitution
SECTION 4:
A “Motion to Investigate” will be made to a general meeting of the Student
Council. The motion would have to receive a majority to pass, withholding the right to vote of the
person(s) the charges are brought against. If passed, a special meeting of the Student Council
would have to be held within one week of the “Motion.”
SECTION 5:
The Student Body president will preside at this meeting unless he/she is the
one under investigation, then the ASB vice president will preside.
SECTION 6:
The accused member will be guaranteed equal time to defend himself.
SECTION 7:
At the end of the defense the Student Council will vote to drop the charges or
discipline the member(s). A vote of 2/3 would be required.
SECTION 8:
The Student Council advisor shall decide the punishment, which may include
any of the following:
a) No punishment, a verbal warning
b) Probation for a designated period of time
c) Suspension from office for a designated period of time
d) Removal from office
ARTICLE XIII - AMENDMENTS
SECTION 1:
Amendments to this Constitution may be proposed by a 2/3 vote of the Student
Council or by a petition signed by not less than fifteen percent of the total membership of the
Associated Student Body and approved by the principal and the Student Council.
52
SECTION 2:
Amendments may be adopted through ratification by a 2/3 majority of the
voting Associated Student Body, provided written notice of such amendments has been posted
at least one week before such vote is taken.
ARTICLE XIV - AUTHORITY AND RESPONSIBILITY
SECTION 1:
For every club or organization on campus, there shall be a faculty advisor
approved by the principal.
SECTION 2:
The faculty advisor and student officers shall be directly responsible to the
principal for all activities of their respective organization of the Associated Student Body.
SECTION 1:
Student Council.
ARTICLE XV - AMENDMENT OF BY-LAWS
Proposed changes in by-laws may be brought up at any regular meeting of the
SECTION 2:
If approved by a 2/3-majority vote of the Associated Student Body, the
proposed change shall become immediately effective.
ARTICLE XVI - IMPLIED POWERS
SECTION 1:
The Constitution of Douglas MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School shall
be the guiding authority for all Associated Student Body activities.
SECTION 2:
decisions.
The principal will be the final authority regarding all Constitutional concerns or
53
APPENDIX B
54
APPENDIX C
Where can I go when I need help?
Who:
Principal ................. Mr. Smulowitz
Where: Main Office
Why:
General questions or concerns
Who:
Assistant Principals Mrs. Weaver
......................................................
Where: Attendance/Counseling Office
Why:
Student Problems
General campus concerns
Who:
School Office Manager
............................. Mrs. Killingbeck
Where: Front Office
Why:
Set appointments with principal
Who:
Discipline Desk........... Mrs. Wood
Where: Attendance/Counseling Office
Why:
Assigned school detention
Assigned Saturday Work Program
Assigned Saturday School
Dress Code Violations or questions
Who:
Registrar ................... Mrs. Arriaga
Where: Front Office
Why:
Need a transcript of grades
Report card not received
Transferring to another school
Who:
Where: Front Office
Why:
General questions
Guest sign-in and badges
Check in for parent meeting
Parks and Recreation flyers
Counselors ..................................
Last Names A-L:……………..Ms. Silva
Last Names M-Z:..Mrs. Frankenberger
Where: Counseling Office
Why:
Questions about schedule or classes
Problems that affect your success in
school
Difficult decisions
“Need to talk”
Family problems
Counseling groups
Agenda Contract
Who:
Librarian/Media Technician . Mrs. Rivera
Where: Library
Why:
Check out books
Conduct research
Place to study before/after school or
lunch
Who:
Attendance Desk: ....Mrs. Lorance
Where: Attendance Office or call 513-9890
Why:
Arriving late
Need to leave early today
Phone messages for students
Need Homework (student must be absent 3
Who:
Activities Secretary
......................................................
Where: Front Office
Why:
Fundraiser information
Awards/Recognition
Who:
or more days. It takes approximately 24 hours to
obtain homework)
Nurse ................ Mrs. Vandermade
Dance permission slips
Where: Call 513-9888
Why:
Student Absent Today
Health Clerk
Where: Health Office
Why:
Fever or illness
Injury on campus
Immunizations update
Health records
(Please call before 11:00 a.m. on the day of
absence. This number is for recording student
absences only; 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
55
APPENDIX D
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS!
Please Call
ATTENDANCE OFFICE for:
Student ABSENT today
Call: 513-9888
(Please call before 9:00 A.M. on the day of absence.
This number is for recording student absences only; 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
You may speak English or Spanish.)
Student Arriving Late send a note with student
(This will count as a student tardy.
or
Call: 513-9890
We accept only one excuse note, per quarter, for tardy to beginning of school.)
Student LEAVING EARLY today
Call: 513-9890
Please call at least one hour in advance or send a note to be given
To the Attendance Office before school begins.
PHONE MESSAGES for student
Call: 513-9890
Need HOMEWORK
Call: 513-9890
(The student must be absent 3 days or more.
It takes approximately 24 hours to obtain homework.)
Main Office Phone: 513-9800
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APPENDIX E
MacArthur Fundamental Intermediate School
Important Phone Numbers
In an emergency, dial
911
Students, please fill in this page and give it to your parents. When they need to find you, they can call your
friends. Please take the responsibility to change this list during the school year as you meet new friends.
My Friends
Student’s Name:
Home Phone:
Class Where We Meet:
Parents’ Name
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
MacArthur Office: 513-9800
School Police (for emergencies): 558-5535
Student Absence: 513-9888
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