G.W. Carver High School Student/Parent Handbook 2010-2011 1591 Pennsylvania Street Memphis, TN 38109 (901) 416-7594 (901) 416-2235 (fax) http://www.mcsk12.net/schools/carver.hs/site/index.shtml Michele S. Mason, Principal Memphis City Schools does not discriminate in its programs or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, handicap/disability, sex, or age. For more information, please contact the office of Equity Compliance at (901) 416-5300. Table of Contents Alma Mater and Fight Song………………………………………………….……………………………………3 Note from the Principal’s Desk………………………………………………………….…………………………..4 A Cobra’s Creed…………………………………………….……………………………………………………..5 G.W. Carver Vision/Mission…………………………………………………..………………………………………..5 Memphis City Schools Semester Calendar……………………………………………………….………6 Progress and Report Cards…………………………………………………………………….………….6 Policies and Procedures……………………………………………..……………………………………7 Student Code of Conduct………………………………………………………………………….……..13 Interscholastic Sports and Extracurricular Activities …………………………… ……………………..18 Title I Family Engagement Plan………………………………….…………………………………………….20 School Home Compact………………………………………………………………………………….21 Family Resource Center……………………………..………………………………………………… 22 Did you Know?/No Child Left Behind…………………………………………………………………23 2 George Washington Carver High School Alma Mater “O Carver High” – Charlotte Brooks Polk O Carver High, Our Alma Mater Grand, Stalwart and Strong, may you forever stand A Beacon light, you shine upon our way. Thy standards are before us day to day Our school so dear, May God be ever near thee, To guide within, thy lovely noble walls, “Neath the Red and white, lie honor, truth and right. There’s no other name so glorious as Carver High. Chrous: O Carver High, We pledge our love to theeOur alma mater, Whether near or far, Loyal and true We’ll be to you. O Carver High On the Banks of the Mississippi There’s a high school known to all. Their specialty is studying, But the students play some ball. Cobra Teams are never beaten, All though the game they fight: Fight for the only colors; red and white. Smash right through that team of blue, Watch the points keep growing. Cobra teams are bound to win They’re fighting with a vim. Rah! Rah! Rah! See that team is weakening, We’re going to win this game. Fight! Fight! Rah Team Fight! Victory for Carver High. 3 Note from the Principal’s Desk It is expected that each student in the Carver community intends to follow the state procedures and standards of behavior in thought and action. G.W. Carver High School students are expected to meet these expectations during school hours, afterschool and at all school functions. The education of the students at Carver is a shared responsibility that is equally shared by the school, student, parent, alumni, and community. The staff at Carver is committed to achieving its primary mission of providing an opportunity for all students to receive a quality and competitive education. G.W. Carver High School feels that a written contract between the students, parents, and the school helps the student and parent understand the importance that is being placed on having expectations. To that end, each student and parent must sign and return to school the School-Parent compact. _______________________ Michele S. Mason, Principal Dr. Jarita Mitchell, Assistant Principal Melanie N. Lynch, Professional Development School Compliance Coach 4 A Cobra’s Creed I am a Carver Cobra. I am a smart and valuable person. My words and actions are kind and honest. I accept only my best in all that I do. I respect myself and I respect others. I am proud of me. I am a Carver Cobra. -Written by Charles Frank, MCS Teacher -Adapted by Michele Mason, Principal G.W. Carver High School George Washington Carver High School Mission Statement The mission of the faculty, staff and community of George Washington Carver High School is to ensure that all students acquire and apply the knowledge and skills to become productive citizens in a diverse society. Vision Statement The vision of Carver High School is to elevate the level of performance of its students in the classroom, motivate them toward positive achievements in life, and to be productive members of society and their respective communities. Our Beliefs We believe all students can learn and attain high standards. We believe students learn best when they are actively engaged in the learning process. We believe opportunities for students to succeed occur through inquiry-based, hands-on academic programs that set high expectations and offer a balance of curriculum, teaching styles and challenging instruction. We believe assessment of learning provides experiences for students to demonstrate the ability to think critically apply knowledge and solve problems. We believe administrators, teachers, parents, students and stakeholders share the responsibility of making decisions that will advance the school’s mission. We believe students are encouraged to reach their full potential through policy that fosters positive human relations and supports a safe learning environment 5 2010-2011 MEMPHIS CITY SCHOOLS CALENDAR August 9 Monday First Day of Classes (All regular classes and special education services) September 7 Monday Labor Day October 8 Friday Fall Break Monday 1/2 In-Service (12pm-3pm) 1/2 Parent -Teacher Conferences (4pm-7pm) November 11 Thursday District-wide Exhibitions of Student Work November 24-26 Wednesday-Friday Thanksgiving Break December 14-16 Tuesday Thursday Exams for First Semester December 16 Thursday Last Day of First Semester December 20-24 Monday-Friday Dec 27 - Jan 1 January 3 Monday-Friday Monday January 17 Monday Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday February 1 Tuesday TCAP Writing Assessment February 21 Monday 1/2 District In-Service (8am-11am) 1/2 Parent-Teacher Conferences (12pm-3pm) March 8 Tuesday ACT Test March 11 Friday Third Quarter Ends Mar 14-Mar 18 Monday-Monday Spring Break (Monday, April 5 could be an instructional day in the event of inclement weather) April 22 Friday Good Friday April 28 Thursday District-wide Exhibitions of Student Work May 3-5 Tuesday-Thursday Gateway Testing May 13-14 Thursday-Friday Senior Exams May 18-20 Wednesday Friday October 11 May 20 May 23-24 Friday Wednesday- Winter Break First Day of Second Semester (Classes resume as normal.) Exams for Second Semester Last Day of Classes Designated System-wide Inclement Weather Make-up Days (if needed) 6 POLICY AND PROCEDURES ATTENDANCE Attendance is checked daily. Students who arrive after 7:40 a.m. are required to check in through the Attendance Office immediately. Failure to follow this procedure will result in disciplinary actions. Students arriving after 7:40 a.m. must be signed in by a parent/guardian. A Parent can also call or send a note with the student in order to have the child’s tardy excused. Students checking in without a parent will be given a school conference request. Unexcused check-ins will result in a suspension. To assist the teachers and the Attendance Office, excessive excused tardies are subject to reprimands. PLEASE NO CHECK OUTS AFTER 1:15 p.m. ABSENCES When absent from school, students must bring a note from their parent/guardian listing the date(s) of the absence, the reason for the absence, and a working telephone number where the parent can be reached. Students have three days after returning from an absence to present a note. After the third day, the absence is considered unexcused. Students must bring their excused absence note to the Attendance Office when they return to the school. UNEXCUSED ABSENCE PROCEDURES 1st and 2nd Unexcused Absence o Call parent 3rd Unexcused Absence o Warning letter; o Parent/teacher 5th Unexcused Absence o Attorney General’s letter o SART meeting o P.S.A. Plan developed 10th + Unexcused Absence o Attorney General’s letter o Mandatory SARB meeting o May Petition Juvenile Court CLEARING SUSPENSIONS Parents or guardians may clear student suspensions at the following times: 7:00 a.m. – 7:30 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Only the designated administrator will clear suspensions. Students may not return to class until a parent or guardian has cleared suspensions. TARDINESS Tardiness is considered a disruptive behavior and will be treated as a discipline problem. The computerized Parent Link will automatically call the home of any student who is absent from school or misses at least three classes in one day. Therefore, it is necessary for the school to have a correct telephone number in the computer. Parents are asked to call the school to correct or change telephone numbers at (901) 416-7594. 7 VERIFICATION FORMS FOR DRIVERS LICENSE Students desiring to obtain the Attendance Verification Form for a Tennessee Driver’s License should come to the Attendance Office and fill out a request for this form. Students must be in compliance with compulsory school attendance guidelines. STUDENT ILLNESS If a student becomes ill, or if it is necessary for a student to leave school during the day, a parent, guardian, or emergency contact must come to the office to sign the student out. Students who remain in the restroom without permission are cutting class. HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION Students who are unable to attend school due to medical reasons (pregnancy, illness, etc.) must confer with the Guidance Counselor(s) concerning homebound instructions and provide medical documentation. Pregnant students need to arrange for homebound instruction before it becomes necessary to leave the regular school program. Promotion and Grade Classification Students Entered High School in 2009-2010, please see the TN Diploma Project Information on page 10 of the handbook. This information applies to those students that entered High School in 2008-2009 Grade placement and promotion in grade 9-12 are based upon the accumulation of Carnegie units. In order to be classified as a 10th grader, a student must have earned a minimum of 5 units of credit. In order to be classified as an 11th grader, a student must have earned a minimum of 10 units of credit. In order to be classified as a 12th grader, a student must have earned a minimum of 15 units of credit. Additional, the student must be on track to complete the required units of credits, necessary for graduation, during the regular school year or summer school. LOVE CHS!! 8 Grades and Assessment Academic Grades Excellent…………………………………………………………A = 93-100 Good……………………………………………………………..B = 85-92 Average………………………………………………………….C = 75-84 Below Average…………………………………………………..D = 70-74 Failure…………………………………………………………....F = Below 70 Conduct Grading Legend Excellent………………………………….…………………….1 Satisfactory…………………………………………………….2 Needs Improvement………………………………………….. 3 Unsatisfactory……………………….………………………...4 Exemptions from Semester Exams Second Semester seniors who have a B Average or above in a course and no more than three (3) absences during the second semester may be exempt from taking exams for that course. An unexcused absence in the course will disqualify the student from exemption. Course Load Students in grades nine (9) – Twelve (12) must enroll for a minimum of five units of credit during the regular nine month school year. Progress Reports Mid nine-weeks report cards are distributed to the students every third week for that particular nine weeks. Reports Cards Report cards are distributed to students at the end of each nine week period. All grades are reported numerically. 9 Tennessee Diploma Project: Graduation Requirements Beginning next school year, the Tennessee Department of Education will implement the Tennessee Diploma Project (TDP), a broad overhaul of standards and curriculum designed to challenge students and better prepare them for college and the workforce. Students beginning high school in Fall 2009 will begin a new path with increased graduation requirements from 20 credits to 22, a focus on the skills needed for college and the workforce in an ever expanding global economy, and new assessments. Gateway Exams in high school will be replaced by end-of-course exams that truly test the mastery of expectations leading to collegeand work-readiness. The overall assessment system includes the ACT’s College and Readiness Test, Explore (given in the 8th grade) and the PLAN College Readiness Test given in the 10th grade. Tennessee Graduation Requirements Current Basic High School Requirements TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED: 20 Requirements for Students Beginning High School in Fall 2009 TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED: 22 MATH: 4 Credits MATH: 3 Credits Including Algebra I, II, Geometry and a fourth higher level math Including either Geometry or Algebra II course SCIENCE: 3 Credits Including one physical science course and Biology SCIENCE: 3 Credits Including Biology, Chemistry or Physics, and a third lab course ENGLISH: 4 Credits ENGLISH: 4 Credits SOCIAL STUDIES: 3 Credits SOCIAL STUDIES: 3 Credits WELLNESS: 1 Credit PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND WELLNESS: 1.5 Credits PERSONAL FINANCE: .5 Credits ELECTIVE: 6 Credits FOREIGN LANGUAGE: 2 Credits FINE ARTS: 1 Credit May be waived for students not going to a University to expand and enhance the elective focus ELECTIVE FOCUS: 3 Credits Math and Science, Career and Technical Education, Fine Arts, Humanities, Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) CAPSTONE EXPERIENCE: Requirements to be determined by local Board of Education 10 STUDENT SERVICES Guidance/School Counselor The Guidance Department is available for student and parent conferences. Students may seek assistance with personal, vocation, career or educational planning. A scheduled appointment from your School Counselor and a hall pass from the classroom teacher is necessary to go to Guidance. Media Center (Library) The Media Center is available for student and parent conferences. Students may seek assistance with personal, vocation, career or educational planning. A written hall pass from your classroom teacher is necessary to go to the Library. Family Resource Center* The G. W. Carver FRC will collaborate year round with Carver High and its satellite schools, parents, service agencies, businesses, and other concerned citizens to develop and implement plans to remove all barriers and obstacles that prevent our students from learning. “Moving families toward economic independence!” *This program is in partnership with the Memphis Enterprise Community and Memphis Housing Authority/Division of Housing and Community Development. School Nurse The school nurse is available for ill students every Friday. If there is a concern regarding a student’s health, the school nurse should be consulted. If a student must take medication while at school, she or he must bring it to the principal along with specific instructions signed by the prescribing physician. Students are not permitted to possess any drugs at any time at school. Cafeteria The cafeteria is operated daily during the school year for the convenience of all students. Hot meals are sold at a minimum cost. Students are asked to help keep the lunchroom lines orderly and the cafeteria clean. Students are to return all paper, trays, dishes, juice bottles, and silverware to the proper places. Conversation between students sitting nearby during the lunch hour is expected, but excessive loudness is not acceptable. Food, juices, cookies, and popcorn are not to be taken from the cafeteria. Lockers Lockers are purchased as a convenience, and they are the property of the Board of Education. And for that reason lockers are subject to inspection at the principal’s discretion. Locker assignments, combinations, changes, and problems should be reported to the main office. School Pride Students are expected to take pride in G. W. Carver High School. Every student is asked to help keep the building and campus attractive. Remember that parents, community members, and individuals from the business frequently visit our school. Textbooks Textbooks are issued at no charge to the students. Students are responsible for the textbooks, and they must be returned at the end of the course. The student or the parent/guardian must pay for textbooks that are damaged and/or lost before the student can clear G. W. Carver High School. Textbooks should be covered with a textbook cover. The school is not responsible for textbooks or any personal items stored in the lockers. GO BIG RED!!! 11 SAFETY AND SECURITY PROCEDURES Accident Reports An Accident Report must be filled out for any accident at school. The teacher/staff member present at the time of the accident is responsible for providing information about the accident and completing the Accident Report. Harassment G. W. Carver High School is committed to providing an environment where harassment of any kind is considered unacceptable. Harassment will be treated as a serious violation of proper school conduct. Harassment can include gesture or actions. This definition applies especially to gestures, actions, or comments of a sexual nature. Drug and Alcohol The possession, use, sale, purchase, or transfer of alcohol or illegal drugs on campus or during a school-related trip or at a school function is forbidden. Students may not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol on campus or during a school-related trip or function. Smoking on Campus Smoking is not permitted in Memphis City Schools. Visitors All visitors must report to the main office immediately upon entering the building, sign in, and obtain a visitor’s pass. 12 STDUENT CODE OF CONDUCT The Student Code of Conduct includes sample violations, sample disciplinary measures and interventions for students. This code serves as a guide for students, parents/guardians, teachers and administrative personnel. The code also includes examples of the rights and responsibilities of students, teachers and parents. There is a parent contract that a parent/guardian must sign to indicate that he/she received and read the code and will abide by its contents. Although the disciplinary measures to be used are district wide, schools may use their own intervention strategies in addition to listed in the code. Level 1Offenses Excessive excused tardiness to school/early releases (excluding medically documented and school sponsored events) Excessive unexcused tardiness to school or early releases (more than 3 times) Unexcused/excused tardiness to class (more than 3 times) or class cutting (see Attendance Regulations, page 21) Possession of cellular phones Possession of objects such as laser pointers (non-use) Failure to wear district-adopted school uniform or violation of the school’s dress code Misconduct: Level 1 (other Level 1 incidents not specifically listed, such as running in the hall or throwing a pencil) Level 2 Offenses Continuing to engage in Level 1 offenses Leaving campus without permission Defiance of school personnel’s authority, disrespect, insubordination, or refusing punishment Gambling Misuse of locker/storage privilege Obscene material, behavior, language, gestures, pictures, writings, or propositions Immoral, indecent and/or offensive material, behavior, language, gestures, pictures, writings, or propositions Profanity, provocative and/or abusive language directed at a student Theft ($500 or less) Possession/use of matches, lighters, or fireworks Unauthorized parking/reckless driving on or near campus False accusations against a student Giving false ID Cheating/plagiarism or forgery Posting/distributing unauthorized materials False fire alarm Possession/use of tobacco product (student must be issued a citation) Possession/use of over-the-counter medications (e.g., aspirin, cough medicine) without school approval (See Policy # 6.405 Medicines) Misconduct: Level 2 (other Level 2 incidents not specifically listed, such as shoving a student in line—no injury, or throwing a football in the hall—no injury) Level 3 Offenses Continuing to engage in Level 2 offenses Trespassing or loitering Fighting (minor injury and nongang related) Participation in activities related to non-school sponsored/non-sanctioned organizations Unauthorized or inappropriate use of the internet, computers, or computer software Disruptive behavior (other Level 3 incidents not specifically listed, such as throwing a chair or a food fight) 13 Level 4 Offenses Continuing to engage in Level 3 offenses Arson Hazing/initiation: non-school sponsored/non-sanctioned organizations, societies, clubs, or teams Breaking and entering/burglary, theft over $500, or motor vehicle theft Vandalism/graffiti Possession of drug paraphernalia Under the influence of an unauthorized substance at school (no actual possession or use at school) – Mandatory referral to Alcohol and Drug Counseling (A & D) Possession of electronic pagers or beepers (excluding cell phones) Possession/use of alcohol Assault/battery against a student (resulting in minor injury) Threats against a student (non serious) Refusal to produce an object identified by metal detectors Profanity, provocative and/or abusive language directed at school personnel Bullying, intimidation and harassment, including bullying or harassment based on sex, race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation (also includes indecent exposure) Extortion Distribution of over-the-counter medications (e.g., aspirin, cough medicine) – See Policy 6.405 Medicines Felony per juvenile court, where the student’s continued presence in school poses a danger to person or property or disrupts the educational process Disruptive behavior with prior unsuccessful interventions Elementary students engaging in activities implying gang affiliation/membership including gang fights, gestures, actions, signals, literature, colors, drawings, signs, jewelry, apparel, manner of grooming, writings, gang graffiti, verbal or nonverbal communication, possessing/distributing gang information, participating in gang recruitment, solicitation, or hazing/initiation activities, coordinating/ordering gang activities at school, gang-related threats, intimidation, extortion and other gang activity, or acts that imply gang affiliation or membership - Mandatory referral to Level 5 Board Mandated (11-180 Day Expulsion) Fighting (serious injury, weapon used, or gang related) Aggravated assault (resulting in serious injury) Assault/battery against designated visitors Possession of dangerous weapons, including a bowie knife, hawk bill knife, ice pick, dagger, a switchblade, or a weapon of like kind False imprisonment or kidnapping Sexual battery Serious threats against students Threats (serious and nonserious), assault (excluding battery) or false accusations against school personnel Middle/high school students engaging in activities implying gang affiliation/membership including gang fights, gestures, actions, signals, literature, colors, drawings, signs, jewelry, apparel, manner of grooming, writings, gang graffiti, verbal or nonverbal communication, possessing/distributing gang information, participating in gang recruitment, solicitation, or hazing/initiation activities, coordinating/ordering gang activities at school, gang-related threats, intimidation, extortion and other gang activity, or acts that imply gang affiliation or membership – Mandatory referral to Gang Prevention Counseling Other major incidents and behaviors which have high potential for causing serious injury and/or death (e.g., throwing bricks at an occupied school bus) Level 5 State Mandated Tolerance Offenses Year Expulsion) Battery against school personnel Possession/sale/distribution of illegal drugs or unauthorized prescription drugs 14 Possession/concealment/use/sale/distribution of explosive devices and firearms (assembled or unassembled parts), except toy guns – real/look-alike Zero Tolerance offenses are specific acts committed by students that require mandatory expulsion for one calendar year under Tennessee law. Policies Governing Student Behavior Students must observe all conduct rule established by G.W. Carver High School and Memphis City Schools. Failure to abide by established rules and regulations will results in a parent conference and/or disciplinary action (Alternative Learning Center, Home or Board Suspension). A student may be suspended by the school principal up to 10 consecutive days. The length of the suspension will be determined by: • The specific offense and its seriousness • The age and grade level of the student involved • The student’s history of misbehavior Board Suspensions – Pupils having in his/her possession at school any instrument that could be classified as a weapon. – Pupil accused of any insubordination toward faculty member, Administrative personnel, or classified personnel such as striking or using abusive language. – Pupil involved in a school break-I causing malicious property damage to school property – Failure of parent or Guardian to respond to a home suspension within three(3) days. – any truancy following a return to school from a home suspension for truancy. – All individuals who are involved in premeditated fights. – Pupil involved in illegal possession or use of drugs and alcohol. Home Suspensions: – Excessive Absences and tardiness to school without legitimate cause or truancy. – Disruptive behavior In-School Suspension An Administrator may issue in-school suspension to students, requiring them to leave their class and complete their academic requirements at the school while on suspension. Student given ISS of more than one day shall attend a special class attended by students engaging in misconduct or be placed in an isolated area appropriate for study. Expulsion When a student is expelled, he or she is removed from school attendance for more than 10 consecutive school days or for more than fifteen (15) days in a month of school attendance. Additionally, multiple suspensions that occur consecutively shall constitute expulsion. This disciplinary option is used only in the most severe cases, since expulsion separates a student from his or her assigned learning environment. Expulsions may vary in length from 11 days to the remainder of the school year. Some, but not all, of the offenses that may result in an expulsion are included in the Level 4 and Level 5 offenses listed in the Student Code of Conduct. Under Tennessee law, a student will be expelled for a period of no less than one – Leaving campus without permission (1) calendar year for any of the following behaviors: 1. Battery against school personnel; 2. Possession/sale/distribution of illegal drugs or unauthorized prescription drugs; or 15 3. Possession/concealment/use/sale/distribution of explosive devices and firearms (assembled or unassembled parts), except toy guns - real/look alike. Any student expelled must have an academic and a behavioral re-entry plan before returning to school. Gang Prevention, Intervention, and Enforcement Memphis City Schools believes that school should be a safe place for students to learn and grow. Distractions caused by gangs and similar organizations are a direct threat to the safety and security of students and disrupt the learning environment. Therefore, the district strictly prohibits all activities related to gangs and other organizations that engage in unlawful or delinquent behavior and provides support for students affected by gang activity. Definition of a Gang A gang is a formal or informal ongoing organization, association, or group consisting of three or more persons that: Has as one of its activities the commission of criminal or delinquent acts; and Has two or more members who, individually or collectively, engage in or have engaged in a pattern of criminal or delinquent gang activity. Consequences for Engaging in Gang Activity Middle and high school students will be expelled for a period between 11 and 180 days. In addition, students suspended or expelled for gang-related activity will receive mandatory gang prevention counseling and may receive an adjustment transfer or placement in an alternative school. Uniform Policy All Memphis City Schools students – including Preschool and Kindergarten students – are required to follow the Memphis City Schools uniform policy. The basic uniform, which is acceptable in all Memphis City Schools, is as follows: White shirt or blouse with collar and sleeves (long or short sleeves acceptable; sleeveless tops are not acceptable) Bottoms (pants, knee-length walking shorts, jumpers or skirts) can be black, navy or khaki/tan Parents should also note that: Pants must be straight-legged or boot cut. Full-length pants, cropped pants, cargo pants and straightlegged Capri pants are permitted. Denim jeans, pedal pushers, and bell-bottoms are not permitted. Walking shorts are permitted for elementary, middle/junior high and high school students. (Walking shorts are straight-legged shorts that are knee-length.) Pants must fit at the waist and not be oversized or undersized. Baggy pants, sagging pants, tights, or pants made of spandex are prohibited. If belts are worn they must be fitted and put through belt loops. Skirts or jumpers must be at or below the knee. Shirts must be tucked on the inside unless they are made to be worn over pants or skirts. T-shirts may be worn as undergarments. They must be solid white. Shoes should not have heels higher than an 1 ½ inch. Athletic or tennis shoes are acceptable. If sandals are worn, they must have a heel strap. No denim material (jeans pants, skirts or jumpers) may be worn as uniform clothing.) 16 All uniform clothing must be plain with no manufacturers’ logos, insignia, brand names or pictures visible on the clothing. Heavy coats, heavy jackets and raincoats are not covered by these regulations and are not to be worn indoors during the school day unless permitted by the principal for special circumstances. Some schools permit students to wear certain colored polo or other collared shirts and blouses (such as an official school color) in lieu of the white shirts; check with your child’s school before purchasing. Parents who do not wish their children to wear uniforms because of religious custom or because of parents’ strongly held beliefs must contact their school for Request for Exemption form. 17 Interscholastic Athletics and Extracurricular Activities Athletics and other extracurricular activities are important parts of school life. Students can develop skills and character traits such as team building, leadership, self-discipline, healthy competition, and integrity. According to MCS policies on Interscholastic Athletics (#4.301) and Extracurricular Activities (#4.300), students participating in athletics and extracurricular activities are expected to act responsibly and with high ethical standards at all times. To ensure that students receive the highest benefit from these programs, MCS has established rules of conduct and consequences for unacceptable behavior for student athletes and for students participating in extracurricular activities. – – – – – – – – – – – – African American History Aspire/Sober CobrasAthletic Prep Club: S Beta Book ClubCarver Rifle Team: CharmettesChess Club Craft ClubDebate Team: Dancing CobrasEtiquette Club- – – – – – – – – – FBLAFCCLAFellowship of Christian Students Future Teachers of America: MajorettesNHSP.E.Cs (Physical Education Club): Pom-PomScience Club – – – – – – – – Student CouncilThe Cobra PressTri-M MusicTSA World Language Yearbook- Thespian Club Black belt Club- Athletics Fall Cross Country (Boys and Girls Football (boys) Golf (Boys and Girls) Volleyball (Girls) Winter Basketball (Boys and Girls) Spring Baseball (Boys) Softball (Girls Tennis (Boys and Girls) Track (boys and Girls) Dances Traditional dances include Homecoming in the fall, Prom and Red & White in the spring. Additional dances may be sponsored as fundraising activities by classes or school organizations. 18 ASSEMBLY PROGRAMS There are many opportunities for assembly programs during the school year. Several of the programs are for students who excel exceptionally well in their academics. They are not only recognized for their achievement, but they are awarded for it as well. Auditorium seating, for assemblies, is assigned by homerooms. Assembly Rules: Students must enter and leave an assembly in an orderly manner. Teachers will enforce these three basic rules for assembly: 1. Remain quiet when entering the auditorium, throughout the program and when leaving. 2. Sit erectly in your seat. 3. Give the speaker/performer your undivided attention Students attending the performance should leave books in the classroom. Students must respond to program performances with polite applause. The following actions will not be allowed: o Booing o Catcalls o Whistling o Commenting (Yelling Out) o Standing o Dancing Students will not be allowed to sleep. Students who do not obey rules will not be allowed to attend future assemblies. Inappropriate behavior will result in disciplinary action. All students will remain seated in their designated areas with teachers until dismissed by the administrative staff at the conclusion of assemblies. 19 George Washington Carver High School Family Engagement Plan 2010-2011 (Spanish Translation available) Revised 9/25/2010 Under the Federal Projects Director, G.W. Carver High School jointly develops with parents a written Family Engagement Plan. The Plan establishes the expectations for parental involvement at G.W. Carver High School according to the guidelines set forth in Title I regulations. To insure that parents have opportunities to participate in an organized, on-going and timely way in the planning, review, and improvement of programs for family engagement and the Family Engagement Plan of the Title I Program at G.W. Carver High School, we shall do the following: Invite parents to the Title I Annual Parent Meeting held in August or September to inform them of the following: 1. G.W. Carver High School’s participation in the Title I program, 2. The Title I requirements for G.W. Carver High School, 3. The right of parents to be involved in the school and 4. Various school activities. Hold a flexible number of parent meetings and activities. Involve parents in an organized, ongoing and timely way in the plans for parent involvement. Provide parents timely information about parent involvement programs. Provide a description and an explanation to parents of: 1. The curriculum in use at the school 2. Forms of academic assessment used to measure student progress 3. Proficiency levels students are expected to meet. Provide parents with opportunities for regular meetings, if requested, to formulate suggestions, to participate in decisions relating to the education of their children and respond to any suggestions as soon as practically possible. Jointly develop with parents a school-parent compact. Review the Home/School Compact periodically to ensure that plans continue to be in place to increase student achievement. Review the Family Engagement Plan to meet the changing needs of parents and the school. Provide assistance to parents in understanding such topics as: -State academic content Standards, -State student academic achievement standards, -State and local academic assessments including alternate assessments, how to monitor a child’s progress and how to work with educators to improve the achievement of their children and the requirements of parent involvement. -Understanding student proficiency levels Provide materials and training to help parents work with their children to improve their achievement, such as literacy training and using technology to foster parent involvement. With the assistance of parents, educate teachers, pupil services personnel, principals and other staff in the value and utility of parent contributions. The staff will be trained in how to reach out to, communicate with, and work with parents as equal partners. In addition, the staff will be trained to implement and coordinate parent programs, and build ties between parents and schools. Coordinate and integrate, to the extent feasible and appropriate, parent involvement programs and activities with centers such as the G.W. Carver Family Resource Center housed at G.W. Carver High School. Send parents information related to school and parent programs, meetings and other activities to the extent practicable, in a language parents can understand. Provide parents with reasonable support for parent involvement activities as parent may request. Include parents in professional development available to staff and parents under No Child Left Behind. Support family engagement in all programs at the school. Allow all Title I personnel to be accessible to parents. Conduct parent surveys to determine effectiveness of the Family Engagement Plan. Provide parents with a description and explanation of the curriculum in use at G.W. Carver, forms of academic assessment used to measure student progress and the proficiency levels students are expected to meet. Parents participate in AT LEAST ONE school sponsored parent teacher conference. Provide Parent information in English and Spanish. Has established expectation for parental involvement Have been informed of the Title I requirements As a parent you have a right to be involved Memphis City Schools does not discriminate in its programs or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, handicap/disability, sex or age. 20 2010-2011 PTSA Meetings Tentative Parent Meetings all begin at 5:00 P.M. in the Library September 1st October 6th November 3rd December 1st January 5th February 2nd March 2nd April 6th May 11th The Carver Family Resource Center The Family Resource Centers (FRC) have been established to work in partnership with parents, community, state and local agencies, and public and private organizations to effectively resolve diverse problems facing children and their families. Their purpose is to: • Coordinate the activities of all service agencies that support student and family needs in order to ensure seamless service delivery • Provide an informal place at schools where parents come and share parenting concerns • Provide families assistance in making every home a supportive place for the education of children. from MCS Parental Involvement Flier 21 GEORGE WASHINGTON CARVER HIGH SCHOOL SCHOOL/PARENT COMPACT 2010-2011 (Spanish Translation available) Revised 9/25/2010 Parent/Guardian’s Agreement I want my child to achieve. To support my child’s learning, I will encourage him/her by doing the following: See that my child is punctual and attends school regularly. Support the school in its efforts to maintain proper discipline and that child obeys the school rules. Establish a time and place for homework and monitor homework regularly. Provide a quiet, well-lighted place for study. Stay aware of what my child is learning Develop a partnership with the school to help children achieve the State’s high standards. Encourage my child’s efforts and be available for questions. Volunteer in my child’s school in various areas and not only at athletic events and special programs. Communicate with my child’s teacher frequently to find out how my child is doing in school including reviewing the Progress Reports sent home after the third week of each nine-weeks and reviewing the report card each nine-weeks. Teach social skills to promote positive interactions with all and teach them to be respectable. Attend scheduled parent meetings, conferences and workshops. Provide necessary supplies and maintain those supplies that were given by the school. Meet with my child’s teachers at least annually to discuss the school/parent compact. Review frequent student progress reports such as report cards, periodic progress reports, TCAP/Gateway /EOC reports. Encourage my child to read by providing a library card for my child and letting my child see me read. Discussed school-parent compact in relationship to individual child’s achievement Student’s Agreement It is important that I work to the best of my ability. Therefore, I shall strive to do the following: Attend school regularly and report to classes on time. Come to school each day with pens, pencils, paper, and other necessary tools for learning. Perform at my highest level of learning each day. Share the responsibility for improving my academic achievement with my parents and the entire school staff. Complete and return homework and class assignments in a timely manner. Observe regular study hours. Ask questions when I do not understand. Comply with rules of student conduct, including the uniform policy. Display respect for all and obey all the rules. Take responsibility for my actions. And grades and to cooperate with others that I may receive a quality education. Teacher’s Agreement It is important that students achieve. To support my students’ learning, I shall strive to do the following: Share the responsibility for improving student academic achievement with parents and students. Provide high-quality curriculum and assignments at a pace appropriate for my students. Provide meaningful homework assignments for students, when applicable. Provide necessary assistance to parents so they can help with the assignments. Encourage students and parents by providing information about the student’s progress. Provide constant preparation for my students to succeed on District and State tests. Determine to student’s educational needs and adjust my instruction to accommodate those needs. Participate in extracurricular activities and school-related functions. Maintain on-going communication and participation from students and parents. Be a model learner for my students Demand Higher cooperation and participation from students and parents G.W. Carver High School’s Responsibility As a G.W. Carver High School administrator, I support parent, student, and teacher involvement focused on student success. Therefore, the administration and staff of G.W. Carver High School will strive to do the following: Provide a supportive, safe, and effective learning environment that allows for positive communication between the teacher, parent, and student Encourage teachers to regularly provide homework assignments that will reinforce and is an extension of classroom instruction. Develop a partnership with parents to help children achieve the State’s high standards. Provide high-quality curriculum and instruction in a supportive and effective learning environment that enables the children to meet the State’s student academic achievement standards. Have high expectations of ourselves, students and other staff Determine the student’s educational needs and adjust the instruction to accommodate those needs. Ask parents to help, encourage their support in the school and provide flexible parent meetings. Jointly develop with parents, a School/Parent compact that outlines how parents/school/ staff/students will share responsibility for improving student academic achievement Conduct a parent meeting in the spring of each year to discuss, develop and approve the School/Parent Compact the Family Engagement Plan and hold regular parent/teacher conferences at flexible meeting times throughout the year. Give parents reasonable access to staff, to volunteer, participate and observe in their child’s classroom. Enforce all rules set forth by Memphis City Schools and GWCHS. Listen to parents and students concerns Maintain open communication with parents (phone calls, conferences, parent meetings, parent visitations) Ensure that Parents have access to the staff School is a federally funded NCLB School. _________________________ _______________________ _________________________ ______________________ 22 _________________________ _______________________ _________________________ ______________________ Memphis City Schools does not discriminate in its programs or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, handicap/disability, sex or age 23 NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND PARENT'S RIGHT TO KNOW (Spanish Translation available) Our school is a federal funded school-wide Title I School. Title I requires that school create a positive and supportive learning environment that results in high levels of achievement for all students. Funds are available for academic programs and strategies, additional teachers and other personnel, staff development, materials, supplies, technology, and parent training. All parents have the right to request the following: A teacher’s professional qualifications, licensure, grade(s) certification, waivers A teacher’s baccalaureate and/or graduate degree, fields of endorsement, previous teaching experience A paraprofessional’s qualifications An annual notice of Student Education Records Privacy and notice for disclosure of School Directory Information An assurance that their child’s name, address and telephone listing not be released to military recruiters All parents will receive information on the following: Their child’s level of achievement on each of the state’s academic assessments Notification of right to transfer their child to another school in the district if the student becomes the victim of a violent crime or is assigned to an unsafe school District Family Involvement Policy and School Parent Involvement Policy Their right to public school choice, Supplemental Educational Services and more effective involvement if their child’s school is identified for school improvement We look forward to working with you and your child to make this a rewarding year. Memphis City Schools does not discriminate in its programs or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, handicap/disability, sex, or age. 24