NEWARK MIDDLE SCHOOL
701 Peirson Ave
Newark, New York 14513
“A Middle School strives to provide each student with an education that
will enable him/her to experience success. The Newark Middle School
community is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and supportive
school environment that promotes self-discipline, motivation,
responsibility and excellence in learning.
The school's organizations and activities will accommodate individual
learning styles by providing a comprehensive and challenging educational
program that takes into account the physical, social and emotional needs
as the student transitions from child to adolescent.
Newark Middle School works as a team together with parents and the
community to develop the whole child during the acquisition of skills and
assets necessary to become independent and self-sufficient.”
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Parent Involvement at the Middle School Level
Many parents who are actively involved in the education of their children at the
elementary school level become less involved when their children reach middle school.
However, parent involvement in a child’s education during the middle school years is just
as important in a child’s success at school as it is in the earlier grades.
What are Middle Schoolers Like?
As children grow, they begin to experience physical, intellectual and emotional changes.
The way they learn, feel, see the world, and relate to other people becomes different from
when they were younger. These changes, along with demands from present –day society
and peer pressure, create conflicts and tension in the adolescent, which are reflected in
their behavior in school and at home.
Young people at this age show a good number of contradictions and conflicts which is
normal. There is no “model” adolescent. All young persons are individuals with strong
and weak points and with positive and negative qualities. There are some common
characteristics that should be kept in mind in order to understand and help the middle
schooler in daily activities at home and at school:

Adolescents have high levels of physical and emotional energy, which may
contrast with long period of idleness.

They take risks, are curious and love risk and adventure, yet their feelings can be
hurt easily. This is the time when they feel immortal, but they worry a lot about
what their friends think about them.

They want to be independent from their families, and at the same time, they feel a
need to be pampered and protected.

They withdraw and want a private life, and at the same time, they worry about
being accepted by their peers.

They demand privileges but avoid responsibilities. At the same time, they are
developing an awareness of social problems and the welfare of others.
Adolescents from other cultures sometimes face an additional burden as they develop
their identities and try to comply with the requirements of home and school. On one side,
they have the values and customs of the home that the family wants to maintain, and on
the other, they have to respond to the demands of their peers and teachers, who have a
different set of rules.
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How will Your Children and Your School Benefit from Your Involvement?
When parents become involved, both students and school benefit:
 Grades and test results are higher

Students’ attitudes and behavior are more positive

Academic programs are more successful

The schools, as a whole, are more effective
The participation of all parents is important to the academic achievement of their
children. Such participation has many positive consequences for the family, the school,
and especially for the young adolescent:

The family has the chance to understand the school system better

The teachers can understand students who come form other cultures more easily

The students receive support form adults in order to confront the problems of
adolescence
What Can Parents Do To Support Education at Home?
There are many ways that parents can demonstrate to their adolescent children that they
are interested in academic success and that they are available to offer support and
protection when there are problems. Her are some suggestions:

Talk with your child about what happens at school every day. Ask often if there
are messages from school, even if you repeatedly receive few responses.

Spend some relaxed time with your children. Share a meal or a snack. Tell them
often what you like about them.

Listen to and share their worries. Support what you believe to be good about the
school and offer your help.

Avoid scoldings and arguments when your teenagers bring bad news home.
Listen to their reasons and offer your help to improve the situation. It helps if
your children know you believe they will be successful.

Value their education by encouraging homework and reading. Help your children
choose a good time and place to do their assignments and special projects.
Provide the necessary materials and give them your unconditional support.
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What Can Parents Do in the Middle School?
The way that parents become involved in the middle school can be somewhat different
from what they were accustomed to in the elementary school. Generally, the building is
larger. A middle school student may have several teachers, not just one as in the
elementary school. The schedule is probably more complicated.
Do not be surprised if your teenagers feel embarrassed when you go to their school. It is
not uncommon for them to resent their parent’s presence at school. Here are some
suggestions to increase your involvement:

Get to know several teachers, not just one. Don’t wait for a problem to talk to
them.

Keep in touch with the guidance counselors

Read all information on school polices and procedures

Keep informed about your child’s grades and test results, especially in any subject
in which he or she has problems. Ask for help if it is needed.

Get to know other parents

Answer notes and other correspondence the school sends.

Participate in our monthly Shared Decision Making and partners in Education
Teams that involve parents to help support and organize school events.
Where Can Parents and Teachers Obtain More Information about Middle School,
Adolescence and Parent Involvement?
http://content.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=2162
http://www.middleweb.com/mw/resources/MWRpublic.html
http://school.familyeducation.com/parenting/middle-school/37562.html
http://www.academicresources.org/learning.html
http://www.nea.org/parents/index.html
http://www.psparents.net/Middle%20School.htm
http://www.schwablearning.org/banners/bts2007.asp
Other great sites can be found on our Middle School Web page listed under
PARENTS
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Attendance
Building Security
Bus Rules
Change of bus
Cell Phones/Electronic Devices
Code of Conduct
Acceptable behavior
Dress Code
Harassment
Responsibilities of Student
Unacceptable behavior
Computer lab
Counseling Center
Discipline
Potential Consequences
Suspension
Time-out
Late Detention
Saturday Detention
Early Dismissal
Emergency School Closing
11th Period
Health Services
Dispensing Medications
Immunizations
No-Nit Policy
Physicals
Screening
Library
Lockers
Main Office
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Partners in Education (PIE)
Payment for Loss or Damage to school Property
Report Cards
Honor Roll/ High Honor Roll/ Principal’s List
School Events
Assemblies
Clubs
Dances & Activities
Friends of Rachel
Honor Society
School Store
Sports
Student Council
Shared-Decision Making Committee
Teaming
Visitors
Website
APPENDIX
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ATTENDANCE

If a student will be absent for any reason, please call the school nurse at 332-3305
before 8:30 AM and advise her of the reason why your child will not be in school.
 If a parent does not call the school, the attendance clerk will attempt to locate the
parent/guardian at home or at work to find out why the student is not in school.
 In order for the students’ absence to be considered legal, a written excuse from
the parent/guardian must be turned in to the nurse’s office immediately
following your child’s return to school.
Homework assignments are posted daily on our website and are available by calling one
of our homework hotlines. Check the front of your Agenda for numbers and URL
addresses.
BUILDING SECURITY
For security and safety reasons all outside doors with the exception of the front entrance
will be locked at 7:35 am.
 All visitors must enter the building through the front doors and report to the
Greeters Desk prior to visiting any other part of the school.
 No one is permitted to travel within the school without a visitor’s badge.
BUS RULES
Getting To and From School
• If you rely on District transportation, it is important that you read, understand, and
follow the bus regulations. Failure to follow the bus safety rules may result in suspension
of transportation.
• Bus stops ARE considered school property and all school rules apply while waiting for
the bus both to and from school.
IS IT NECESSARY TO HAVE THIS MUCH DETAIL HERE FOR BUSSING? ARE
THERE THINGS THAT CAN BE DELETED?
Prior to loading (on the road and at school):
Be on time at the designated school bus stops.
Stay off the road at all times while waiting for the bus. Bus riders
must conduct themselves in a safe manner while waiting for the bus.
Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before attempting to
board.
Be careful when approaching the bus stop.
While on the bus:
Keep your hands, head, and feet inside the bus at all times.
Assist in keeping the bus safe and clean at all times.
Treat bus equipment carefully to prevent damage.
Damage to any part of the bus must be paid for by the person causing the
damage.
Do not leave lunches, books, or other articles on the bus.
Keep books, packages, coats, and all other objects out of the aisle.
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Do not throw anything out the bus windows.
Stay seated while the bus is in motion.
"Horseplay" is not permitted around or on the bus.
Be courteous to fellow students and the driver.
In case of an emergency, remain in the bus unless instructed to
leave.
Students are not to eat or drink on the bus.
After leaving the bus:
When necessary, cross the road at least ten feet in front of the bus.
Watch for any signals the driver may make.
Bus Drivers will not discharge riders at places other than the regular bus stop or
their home without proper authorization from a parent/guardian or school official.
• Middle School students are not allowed to drive a motorized vehicle to school at any
time.
Change of Bus:

Students wishing to take a different bus home must get a change of bus pass
from the office before homeroom. Students requesting a change of bus pass
must have a note written by one of the student’s parents/guardian’s and must
include the following information:
1) Name of student
2) Date of request
3) Signature of parent/guardian
4) Day or days to be used
5) Bus number and destination
Students should pick up bus passes at the Office during lunch or at the end of the day.
CELL PHONES/ ELECTRONIC DEVICES
We live in a digital age where electronic devices are a part of many students’ lives. We
realize and respect students’ desires and need to have electronic devices at school,
however, we discourage their use when it distracts from the main purpose of coming to
school: to learn.
• The school is not responsible for lost, broken or stolen items; therefore the best way to
protect them is to not bring them to school. If you should bring an electronic device,
students must use it ethically and responsibly by agreeing to follow the proceeding rules
at all times:
• Use of cellular phones, pagers, headphones, IPods, CD players and any other electronic
entertainment or communication device is not allowed during the school day between the
hours of 7:25 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. These devices should be off, out of sight and in student
lockers. Our rule of thumb that staff applies is that if they see them or hear them,
then they must ask students to surrender them to the staff member.
• Students who do not comply will be asked to surrender the appropriate device and a
parent will be contacted to pick the device up.
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CODE OF CONDUCT
Students are expected to conduct themselves in ways that are truthful, honest, and straight
forward. This extends to all school work that is turned in including homework, projects,
tests, and quizzes. Cheating and plagiarism will not be tolerated. All students will be
held personally accountable to this standard of conduct.
Newark Central School District has developed a code of discipline and responsibilities
for all students. This code spells out student misbehaviors to appropriate discipline
action. It is each student’s responsibility to read this code so that he/she understands
which behaviors are unacceptable and what actions will be taken as a consequence. It is
also the student’s responsibility to seek interpretation of any parts of the code not
understood.
Dress code:
Individual students and parents have the primary responsibility for acceptable student
dress and general appearance. School is a formal place of learning. The Middle School
is a place where people’s feelings, morals and values need to be respected at all times.
Therefore:
 Clothing choice that causes disruption or provides the opportunity for a health and
safety issue at school will not be permitted.
 Hats, clothing, and attire which have an expression (phrase or word) or insignia
(picture, symbol, or patch) which is obscene or of sexual nature, or which
advocates racial or religious prejudice is forbidden.
Clothing that is distracting to others or disrupts the climate of the middle school will not
be allowed. This includes, but is not limited to
 Short shorts, cropped tops, see-through attire, boxer shorts, pajamas, and
garments which display inappropriate messages (e.g. alcohol, tobacco, drugs,
death, satanic or demonic messages, violence, etc).
 Any attire that shows bare shoulders or midriffs, or clothing that reveals
undergarments is not acceptable. This includes tube tops, net tops, halter tops,
spaghetti straps, plunging necklines (front and/or back), and see through clothing.
As well as clothing worn inappropriately, (unbuttoned to the point of immodesty,
too tight, see through, too low cut, etc.)
 Any student whose attire is considered distracting, disruptive or unsafe in the
school environment may be removed from class until the clothing is modified or
changed, if necessary, by replacing it with an acceptable item. Any students
refusing to comply with the request of the administrator could be subject to
discipline at the discretion of the school administration. It’s that important.
 Chains, including “chokers”, dog chains, wallet chains, etc. are considered
dangerous and not appropriate for a safe school environment. Wallet chains and
chains hanging from belt loops are not allowed.
 No head coverings should be worn in the building during regular school hours.
 Outerwear including coats, bulky outerwear, jackets, scarves, gloves and
sunglasses are not to be worn during school hours.
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


Shoes must be worn at all times.
Extremely informal clothing such as pajamas and tank top undershirts is
considered both distracting and inappropriate for a middle school setting.
Any clothing that has the appearance of or relates to gang activity or involvement
is clearly forbidden at school as this is in direct violation of our school mission
statement and strongly impacts how students learn and staff may teach.
Harassment:
Harassment can take many forms: physical (i.e. inappropriate touching), sexual, verbal,
or nonverbal. Harassment prevents students from learning and it not only affects
individuals, but the entire school. Harassment is illegal and unacceptable at the middle
school.
Threats and harassment off school grounds. Any student who threatens or harasses a
student off school grounds that results in a student feeling uncomfortable coming to
school in fear of their mental or physical safety will be subject to school disciplinary
procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, threats made on the Internet, WebPages,
instant messaging or harassment directed towards students traveling to and from school.
Unacceptable behavior:
• When a student is referred to an administrator for unacceptable behavior, the
administrator will work with the teacher, the student and the parents to identify the
behaviors, which are interfering with the expectations of the school. A definition of
unacceptable behaviors follows:
Abusive Language
 Swearing or the use of words meant to hurt or demean another person. Racial,
ethnic and/or religious comments will not be tolerated
Insubordination
 Failure to comply with the reasonable request of any staff member
Truancy
 Absence from school or classes without parental knowledge or consent
Vandalism
 Defacing or destruction of any property, including but not limited to books, desks,
walls, lockers, school buses.
Theft
 Stealing other people’s property (money, clothing, food, books, etc.)
Verbal, sexual, and/or physical harassment
 Disrespectful behavior, such as bullying, pushing, intimidating, purposefully
scaring, threatening, making inappropriate comments, gestures, or unwanted
physical contact.
 Any behavior that makes a student feel uncomfortable regarding their bodies is
considered sexual harassment and will not be tolerated under any circumstance.
 Outward signs of affection (i.e. kissing, hugging, etc.) that are deemed distracting
to the educational environment by a student or staff member are included in this
behavior.
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Disorderly conduct
 Pushing, shoving, throwing objects (including snowballs), blocking halls, stairs or
doorways, slamming lockers/doors, and similar actions
Menacing
 Threatening to kill or harm a student, staff member, threatening to bring in, or
pretending to have a weapon in school will result in immediate parent contact and
automatic in-school or out of school suspension.
DRUGS AND WEAPONS:
Smoking and tobacco use of any form is prohibited on school grounds at all times as
the middle school is a smoke-free building. The use, possession, sale, or purchase of
drugs, drug-related paraphernalia, controlled substances, and alcohol is prohibited.
Weapons of any kind are also strictly prohibited. Violations of this rule will result
in immediate suspension from school and a superintendent's hearing will follow.
The term ‘tobacco’ shall be construed throughout this policy to refer to the use of all
tobacco products but not limited to any lighted or unlighted cigarette, cigar, pipe,
clove cigarette, electronic cigarettes, and other smoking product or paraphernalia
including lighters, and spit tobacco (smokeless, dip, chew and/or snuff) in any form.
Possession, sale or use of a weapon
 Will result in immediate parent contact, automatic out-of-school suspension, and
Newark Police Department involvement
Fighting
 Will result in immediate parent contact and automatic in-school or out-of-school
suspension.
Possession, distribution or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol
 Will result in immediate parent contact, automatic in school or out of school
suspension, and potentially Newark Police Department involvement.
Possession, use or distribution of gambling paraphernalia.
 Gambling is considered potentially negative, addictive and unhealthy behavior
and is therefore inappropriate for a middle school setting. Gambling
paraphernalia includes but is not limited to dice, playing cards, electronic devices,
etc.
Smoking, the use of chewing tobacco, and the possession of any form of
tobacco product are prohibited by students on school buses, on school grounds,
at school activities, and in the school building.
Lighters, chewing tobacco, matches, cigarettes, rolling papers and other
contraband, are not to be carried by students.
 School district employees will confiscate these products if they are in student’s
possession. Any resulting disciplinary actions will follow District Regulations
and/or school policy.
Inappropriate use of technology
 Any student who uses an electronic device (for example, the Internet, computers,
cameras, recording devices, wireless calculators and PDAs, etc…) may be
prevented from using technology at school for up to a full year.
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Glass containers
 Students are not allowed to bring glass containers of any kind into the school.
COMPUTER LAB
There are many areas that utilize computers at the middle school. We are fortunate to
have a computer lab right off of the library and a Dell computer in every classroom.
Additionally, we have a “smart room” that provides state of the art technology for
teachers and students to access to enhance learning. At various times throughout the
school year students may go to the computer lab with classes to work on a specific class
project. Students may also utilize the teaching computer lab during a free period or
during 11th period with a pre-signed pass from their teacher.
COUNSELING OFFICE
Our schools Counseling office works closely with each team of teachers and students.
The school counselors are a primary link between the school and home.
The counselors are available to help students adjust to the added social and academic
responsibilities of the middle school. There are two counselors, Ms. Tracy Altman and
Mr. Matt May, who can be called upon to assist your child. The Newark Middle School
offers both individual and group counseling services.
The counselors may help you in one of the following ways:
 With any type of problem you might have such as, schedule, and difficulties with
other students, or teachers, things that happen at home, school work, etc.
 Understand the process of making good every day decisions.
 Explore occupations and future career decisions.
 Help you learn more about yourself as a person; your strengths and limitations
and how you can best take responsibility for yourself and the individual you wish
to be.
Also housed in the counseling office are the Speech Therapist, School Psychologist, and
Chemical Abuse Prevention Counselor (CAP). The guidance office can be reached at
332-3304.
DISCIPLINE
Students who fail to meet the above mentioned acceptable behaviors are subject to
appropriate disciplinary action.
Potential Consequences:


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When a student is referred to an administrator for unacceptable behavior, the
administrator will work with the teacher, the student and the parents to devise a
means of holding students accountable for their choices in such a way that they
may learn from them.
An administrator may choose from any one of the following consequences. This
list is not complete, however, as administrators are charged with attempting to
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make consequences meaningful and appropriate to each individual situation:
o Verbal Warning
o Written apology
o Written assignment
o Conference with parents, guardians or teachers
o Lunch Detention
o Removal from after school activities
o After School Detention 2:35pm -3:00 pm
o After School Detention 2:35pm -4:00 pm
o After School Detention from 11:00-3:00 on Half Days
o Saturday or Evening Detention
o In School Suspension
o Out of School Suspension
o Recommendation to a Superintendent’s Hearing
o Involvement of Police or Other Community Service Personnel
Following all out-of-school suspensions, a re-admittance conference for parents and their
children will take place with building administrators.
Suspension:
Continuous refusal to follow the rules and acceptable behaviors may result in suspension,
either in-school or out-of-school. The school administrator will determine length and
type of suspension. Parents will be notified of the suspension in writing within 48 hours
of the suspension. If possible, such a notice will also be provided by a phone call.
Examples of what would result in an in-school suspension are:
Continuous refusal to obey school rules
Unacceptable behavior in classes (unprepared, talking back)
Refusing to stay/work for a teacher or administrator
Examples of what would result in an out-of-school suspension are:
Fighting
Weapons
Drugs/alcohol/tobacco
Physical/verbal threat to faculty members, or other students
While on an out-of-school suspension, students may not come upon school grounds either
during the school day or for any extracurricular activities after normal school hours. All
students who are suspended for an extended time period will be provided with alternative
education (alternative school, tutoring).
Time-Out:
The purpose of the time-out room is to provide a place for students who are unable to
demonstrate appropriate academic and/or social behavior. Discipline reports will be
mailed home. School administration may also call home to further explain a situation.
Usually a student assigned to the time-out room will also be expected to stay 11th period
to make up the missed class.
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Late Detention:
The late detention is used in addition to a student being denied early release at 2:30 and
having to stay beyond the 3:00 end of school time.
Saturday Detention:
A Saturday detention is used as an alternative consequence for those students who have
continuously refused to follow school rules. The time for a Saturday detention is 9:00 am
to 11:45 am.
EARLY DISMISSAL
• If a student needs to leave school early, a note from the parent/guardian must be
brought to the main office prior to homeroom on the day that you are leaving..
Students should sign out at the Greeter’s Desk when leaving school early. Parents should
pick students up in the main foyer at the Greeter’s Desk.
• If you return to school, you must report to the Greeter’s Desk and get a pass to class.
• Only the School Nurse can excuse a student early from school due to illness.
Students leaving school because of illness must be picked up in the Health Office by
a parent or guardian.
• No one is allowed to leave school without signing “out”. Any pupil leaving without
permission will be considered truant. Parents and Police will be notified
immediately.
EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING
• In the event of a natural or man-made emergency during the school day, students will
be dismissed from school to return home. If conditions are unsafe to leave the building,
students will be maintained in the building. In the event of a Ginna emergency, requiring
the evacuation of students, the reunification center for Newark Middle School is the
Woodlane Church.
• Announcements of emergency school closings will be made over radio stations
WHAM, WVOR, and WCMF.
▪ Parents/Guardians will also receive a ConnectEd Message on your home and/or work
telephone.
11th PERIOD
11TH Period is a time for students to meet with teachers to get extra help, clubs to meet
with advisors or a time for detention.
Students may be assigned to detention study hall for such things as:
Running in the hall
Poor behavior before or after school, or in the cafeteria
Candy/food/drink outside the cafeteria
Tardiness to school or to individual classes
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Incomplete homework, being unprepared for class
Obscene language/profanities/gestures
Students are expected to bring work to complete and behave appropriately (no talking,
locker privileges, or telephone privileges). If a student skips a detention study hall, (s)he
may be assigned additional detention study halls, or a day of in-school suspension, or a
Saturday detention.
HEALTH SERVICES
The Newark Central School District offers important health care services for every
student which compliment care of the student’s personal physician.
Dispensing Medications:
Each school nurse is able to dispense medication to a student with the cooperation of the
parent and physician. However, State Law requires the following if a student must take
medication during school hours:
1. A written request from the doctor.
 Every prescription and over the counter medication requires a written prescription
from the students personal physician.
 The prescription must include the dosage, frequency, duration of administration
and indication for use.
 The written order will be in effect for the school year in which it is written. The
school will require a new prescription each year thereafter.
 In cases where there is a change in dosage a new prescription will be required.
2. A written request from the parent/guardian.
 Parent/guardian must sign a form giving parental consent for administration.
3. Medication in a labeled prescription bottle.
 The medication must be provided to the school in its original bottle or packaging
from the pharmacy.
 Prescription medication must have the pharmacy label on it.
4. Medication delivered to the health office by parent/guardian.
5. Students are not allowed to carry any medicine in school. Under no circumstances
may a student carry medicine of any kind during school. This includes cough drops, all
over the counter medicine, lotion, etc. This is New York State Education Policy enacted
to ensure the safety of all students.
• Under no circumstances should a student keep medication with him/her or in
his/her locker or take medication in school except under the supervision of the
nurse. Students should never share or give any of these types of medication to
another student. This includes prescription AND over-the-counter medication,
dietary pills, supplements and vitamins. Violation of this rule could result in
suspension from school. EXCEPTION: Rescue medications such as: inhalers,
epi-pens and insulin with physicians order to carry and self-administer
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Immunizations:
All incoming students must provide proof of immunizations completion within 2 weeks
of enrollment. If this documentation is not received, the student will be held from
attending until immunization records are provided.
Varicella (Chicken Pox): All students whose birth date is on or after January 1, 1994
must provide the school a record of immunization against chicken pox, or written
documentation from a health care provider of having had the disease.
TDAP: All Students entering 6th grade are required to show proof of immunization
Hepatitis B: All students entering 7th grade must show proof of immunization to
Hepatitis B prior to the beginning of the school year.
Proof of these immunizations must be provided prior to the start of the school year, or
with 2 weeks of the start date of newly enrolled students. Failure to provide this
documentation will result in students being held from attending until this information is
received.
No-nit policy:
When a case of head lice and/or nits is confirmed by the school nurse, the school
nurse/principal will exclude the infected child from attendance at school for a period of
up to three days to prevent the spread of infestation and to permit treatment.
After treatment, the student may be readmitted to school if the nurse finds no
evidence that the head lice and/or nits still exist. If the condition still does exist, the
student will be denied readmission until the child is free of nits. If infestation is still
present after the student has missed six successive days of school, the District may elect
to contact the Department of Social Services for assistance.
Physicals:
Per New York State Law, physical examinations are mandated for children entering
grades Pre K and/or K, 2nd, 4th, 7th and 10th grade. The physical must be provided to the
school within 30 days of the 1st day of the school year, and it must be dated within 12
months of the day the school year commences. The school physician or the family
physician may perform the physical. If physicals by family physicians are not received
by the 30th day of the school year, the student will be scheduled with the school physician
for the physical.
For students new to the District, physicals must be received within 30 days of their start
date and must be dated within 12 months of that start date. The school physician can
perform the physical with parent signed consent of the health history form that is filled
out at the time of enrollment.
Sports Physicals are offered by the Newark School District only one time during the
school year. (Sports physicals can also serve as the required 7th grade physical) Sports
physicals are conducted towards the end of each school year, usually during a school day
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in June. If a student does not come on the specified day for the sports physical, it will
have to be performed by their family physician. Sports physicals must be dated within a
year from the date of the first practice of the sport, which the student wishes to play.
When physicals are more than 30 days old, interval forms are to be completed by the
parents, giving updated health information from the time of the student’s last physical.
Screenings:
(per New York State health mandates)
1.
Scoliosis screen: performed each year by the school nurse in grades 6, 7
and 8.
2.
Vision, Hearing, Height and Weight Screens: performed on students in
grade 7.
LIBRARY

The school library is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 am to
3:00 pm.
 Students may visit the library with a class, with a study hall or lunch pass, or after
school with a pass from a teacher.
If a student uses the library after school, he/she should plan to stay until 3:00 p.m.
LOCKERS


Each student is issued an individual hall locker. Lockers are not to be shared.
Students are responsible for his/her locker and the items placed inside of it.
Students may only use the locker assigned. Lockers are school property and are
available to store personal belongings. Large sums of money and valuables
should not be stored in the locker. They should be left at home.
 All coats, hats, and outerwear are to be placed in the locker until the end of the
school day.
 Problems with a locker should be reported to the office.
Hall Lockers and Gym Lockers are not the property of students but on loan from
the school. School administration reserves the right to inspect lockers at any time
for any reason in order to maintain the school as a safe environment. Students
should not bring unsafe items to school.
MAIN OFFICE
The main office is located at the front of the building. The offices of Mr. Miller, Principal
and Mrs. Prinzi, Assistant Principal are located in the main office. If parents have any
concerns or need to speak with an administrator, they can be reached at 332-3290.
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PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES
Parent/Teacher conferences are an important element in reporting student progress to
parents. Parents may initiate a conference simply by calling the middle school guidance
office (332-3304) and making an appointment with the guidance secretary (Mrs. Kathy
Sapp). In addition, parents may write a letter to the guidance secretary requesting a
parent conference. In the parent/teacher conference, the parent has the opportunity to talk
with each one of the teachers and get feedback as to how their child is progressing.
PARENT TEACHER ASSOCIATION (PTA)
Newark Middle School believes student achievement is directly linked to parent
involvement. The PTA is a welcoming group who meet together on a regular basis to
support students, staff, and parents. The purpose is to enrich the Newark Middle
experience for students and support parents through the teenage years by creating a
variety of different networks. The meeting times can be found on our Website.
PAYMENT FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE TO SCHOOL PROPERTY
In the course of the year students will be assigned items or will borrow items owned by
the school. Textbooks and library books are examples. Schools loan out these materials
to students that they then reuse with other students in following years. Therefore, in
respect to the school and more importantly to other students:
 All students owing payments on projects, bills, fees, damaged / overdue or
missing library books, missing or damaged textbooks etc., must have these
obligations met before the last day of school.
 Textbooks belonging to the school may be retained until the final examination
with the permission of the teacher in charge.
 All financial obligations are to be paid in the main office.
REPORT CARDS
Report cards are issued four times a year, approximately one week after the end of the
marking period.


If your child receives an incomplete ("I") on his/her report card, that student has
until the five-week marking period to make up the incomplete work.
In addition to the quarterly reports, progress reports are given out at five-week
intervals. This is done as a courtesy by the teachers to make parents more aware
of their child's progress.
Honor Roll / High Honor Roll/ Principal’s List:


Honor roll for grades 6, 7, and 8 are prepared four times a year.
The average of all classes can be figured out by adding the total grades from the
core classes (English, science, math, social studies, and foreign language) together
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and multiply by 6 (this is equal to 30 attempts). Take the technology grade and
multiply it by 3 (this is equal to 3 attempts). Total the specials' grades (art, music,
health, and home & careers) and multiply by 4 (this is equal to 12 attempts). Add
all the above numbers together and divide by the total number of attempts (45).
 To be eligible for the Honor Roll the average of all subjects must be a 90 or
higher, and the student must not have any failing grades.
 To be eligible for High Honor Roll the overall average must be a 95 or higher
and the student must not have any failing grades.
 To be eligible for Principal’s List the overall average must be a 98 or higher and
the student must not have any failing grades.
 Passing at the middle school is a 65 or higher. The fourth quarter honor roll will
be based on the final numerical grades. This included the year average and any
final assessments that may be given.
SCHOOL EVENTS
Newark Middle School offers a variety of clubs, activities, and interscholastic sports for
students. Announcements will be made pertaining to dates and times. Information may
also be found on the Website.
 Parents must accompany students to concerts or other evening events.
Students can not be dropped off and picked up later unless it is a chaperoned
event.
 Please, parents, please, please, please, please, please, please, please, pick up
students on time at the end of student activities. It is not fair to the staff
volunteering their time or more importantly to the student waiting to arrive
late.
 Please be punctual when picking students up.
 Newark spectators should remain on the Newark side of the field/court.
 Newark students should not leave the game site
 "Rowdiness" or unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated from parents or
students.
Parents we ask that you be role models for your child’s behavior and demonstrate
appropriate conduct at all school related functions.
Assemblies:
Throughout the school year, Newark Middle School students are fortunate enough to
view assemblies of various nature in the school auditorium. Appreciation of the
auditorium is shown by the way it is used. Therefore, behaving appropriately and
respecting the property is expected of all students. Parents are welcome to join us in any
of these assemblies and can contact the main office to find out when an assembly will be
occurring.
Clubs:
One of the many activities available to students after school is our Club program.
Teachers have formed various clubs for students to participate in as a way to get to know
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other students and other teachers. Clubs are offered during the 11th period; usually one
day per week (may vary depending on the club). Some of the clubs offered are: Science
Club, Ski Club, Yearbook, MAAK Peace. For more information on these and other
clubs, please check the Website.
Dances/Activities:
An exciting part of the middle school experience is attending the many dances and parties
that take place during the school year.
 Dances and activities are for Newark Middle School students only.
 Tickets are sold prior to the event to help organizers plan for the events
appropriately. Tickets sold at the door will be available at a considerable
increased cost to help alleviate the cost of last minute changes and to provide
an incentive to students and parents to use advanced planning.
 Students may not leave the building at any time during a dance or activity. A
written note from a parent is required to leave an event early.
 Students not attending the event may not loiter on school property.
 Normal school standards of behavior are expected from all students. Students
who violate school rules at an event will be subject to the same disciplinary action
deemed appropriate during the school day.
 Students will cooperate fully with the chaperones.
 Dances and activities are the school’s way of recognizing and supporting students
who make responsible choices and want to be at school to learn. Students who
have been suspended or assigned to ISS two weeks prior to an event will not be
allowed to attend.
 Parents need to pick up students promptly at the conclusion of an activity.
Honor Society:
The James Lewis National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) has an induction ceremony in
the Spring of each school year. Students are chosen for high levels of scholarship,
citizenship, character, service, and leadership. Preparing for membership in the National
Junior Honor Society is something that student's should begin to prepare for at the start of
their sixth grade year. To assist them in knowing how to prepare, students may pick up a
sample application in the main office or schedule an appointment with Ms. Erb or Ms.
Stadler to discuss the selection criteria. The following criteria and procedures are used in
the selection process:
All students grade 6-8 are screened for scholastic eligibility (90% or better cumulative
average for the first three quarters of the school year).
All scholastically eligible students are invited to a meeting where other NJHS
qualifications and obligations are explained. The Student Activity Information forms are
distributed at this meeting. Directions for completing these forms are discussed.
Students may ask questions at this time. For further consideration, students must
complete the Student Activity Information form.
All required forms are to be returned by the designated deadline. Copies are made for
each of the five members of the Faculty Council.
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Members of the Faculty Council review all forms and information collected on each
candidate and collect additional, verifiable information as needed. Council members
reserve the right, but are not obligated to contact sponsors/advisors of student activities
listed on the Student Activity Information form or other people who might provide input
on the student's qualifications.
The Faculty Council meets to discuss each candidate's qualifications. A vote is taken
with each member of the Faculty Council receiving one vote. Candidates must
demonstrate evidence of characteristics related to each of the five areas: scholarship,
service, leadership, character, and citizenship. Candidates receiving a majority vote of
the Faculty Council are offered membership into the James Lewis National Junior Honor
Society.
School Store:
The school store is operated by the students at the middle school. The school store
carries a large number of school supplies that can be purchased at a reasonable cost. The
hours of operation for the school store will be posted on the door and will be announced
by student representatives. Normally, students are allowed to go to the school store from
a study hall or a class with permission from the teacher.
Sports:

Newark Central School District offers a variety of Modified/Freshman/JV/Varsity
interscholastic sports for students as well as an intramural program for 6th graders.
 Students wishing to try out for a sport must have an approved sports physical.
The school nurse will then provide a permission slip for the student to try out for
the team. This must be done before tryouts for each sport.
 The school district does not provide transportation home from practice. Coaches
will communicate to athletes and parents where and when they should be picked
up.
 A 7th or 8th grader interested in trying out for a Junior Varsity or Varsity team
must pass the Selective Classification test.
 A complete list of sports/seasons is available from the PE teachers or the Athletic
Director.
 In order to participate in games/matches, students must be passing (please refer to
the Newark Central School District athletic policy for specific guidelines).
Newark Central School District’s sports program is designed to create the most well
rounded scholar athlete possible. To this end, students are expected to achieve minimum
behavioral and academic standards in order to participate in a sport. When you do not try
your hardest at school and make good choices, you not only let yourself down, but your
entire team down. It is important to live up to these expectations. At the end of this
handbook are the eligibility requirements for athletic participation. Consult these and
take them seriously to participate in athletic activities as a middle school student.
Student Council:
Student Council is a group of students who are interested in school government.
Members are elected to Student Council in a variety of ways.
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There are four elected officers who run for office during the springtime for positions to
be held the following school year. Candidates write speeches and present them to the
student body publicly. They make posters and buttons to use during campaign time. The
President and Treasurer are elected from the next year's eighth grade class. The VicePresident and Secretary are elected from the next year's seventh grade class. They all
serve for one year.
There are six Senators who are elected to Student Council. There are three seventh grade
Senators and three eighth grade Senators. Senators campaign by making posters and are
elected at the end of their sixth grade year. They serve until the end of their eighth grade
year. Senators are in charge of running committees. These committees are roller skating,
special days, special events, dances, refreshments, and recycling. These committees
determine and plan activities for the school population.
The final way to be elected to Student Council is to run as a Representative in a Social
Studies class. At the beginning of each school year, speeches are written and presented
anonymously to the Social Studies class that candidate belongs to. These speeches are
read by the classroom teacher and no candidate's names are read. This method is used so
student's vote on the candidate's ideas not who the candidate may be. The winners serve
for one year and participate in one of the committees run by the Senators.
Student Council also has a variety of appointed or "Presidential Cabinet" positions that
are given to eighth grade students. These positions are usually given to students who
have been a part of Student Council in the past, but may have lost a recent election.
Student Council meetings are run by the President using Parliamentary Procedure. All
elected members are allowed to vote on issues. All members are allowed to bring up
issues at Student Council meetings.
To remain on Student Council throughout the year, all members must meet certain
academic and behavioral requirements. Academically, members must be passing all
subjects at the end of each quarter. If a member is failing any subject they are
immediately removed from Student Council.
Student Council has a strict Code of Ethics that each member must follow. These
behavioral rules were developed by former Student Council members. Student Council
members must be honest and should not lie, cheat, or steal. First offense is one month
suspension. Second offense is removal from Student Council and after third offense the
member is barred from Student Council for all remaining school years.
Student Council members must obey all school rules. Out-of-school suspension means
removal from Student Council for the remainder of the school year. If a member receives
three detention study halls, it is considered as one in-school suspension and the same
procedure would be followed.
Student Council members must fulfill all of their duties as described in the Student
Council Constitution. If a member does not, the first offense is a warning, the second
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offense is a suspension for one month, and the third offense is removal from Student
Council for the remainder of the year. If you have any questions regarding Student
Council please contact Ms. Person or Mr. VanDuyne at 332-3290.
SHARED-DECISION MAKING COMMITTEE
The purpose of the NMS SDMC is to improve the educational performance of the
students in our school. It allows for the participation of teachers, parents, community
members, and students in school based planning and decision-making. The committee is
organized and operates based on a plan, which was developed by a committee within the
Newark Central School District under the guidance of the State Education Department.
Meetings take place once a month and are scheduled at times that are most convenient for
all members.
TEAMING
Teachers and students are assigned to teams. 6A (Red), 6B (Yellow), 6C (Blue), 7A
(Purple), 7B (Green), 8A (Grey), 8B (Maroon).
The teams are designed so that the same teachers work with the same students and
parents to plan and coordinate instruction and events. We believe teaming helps to
promote cohesiveness for students and parents.
VISITORS

All visitors are to report to the Greeter’s Desk to sign in and receive a visitor’s
pass. Parents are always welcome, but for safety and security reasons must sign
in at the Greeter’s Desk and secure a visitor’s pass.
 Students may not have visitors attend school with them.
 While on school property, visitors are expected to adhere to all guidelines as
stated in the district and building Codes of Conduct as well as comply with all
requests made by school officials.
WEBSITE ADDRESS:
http://www.newark.k12.ny.us/newarkms
You can find TONS of important information, HW assignments, Grades,
Report Cards, Important Dates and Morning Announcements all on our
website.
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TITLE IX
“The Newark Central School District, 100 East Miller Street, Newark, New York,
does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the educational program or activities which it
operates, and it is required by Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 not to
discriminate in such a manner. This policy of non-discrimination includes the following
areas: recruitment and appointment of employees; employment pay and benefits;
counseling services for students; access by students to educational programs, course
offerings and student activities.
The District designates an official responsible for the coordination of activities
relating to compliance with Title IX. This official will provide information, including
complaint procedures to any parent, student, or employee who feels that his or her rights
under Title IX may have been violated by the district or its officials.” Contact the
building Principal if you have a complaint.
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APPENDIX
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Yvonne MacTaggert President
Roberta Colacino
Vice President
Tom Ledbetter
Susie Earl
Joe DeSanto
Teresa Hurley
Rob Crowder
CENTRAL ADMINISTRATION – DISTRICT OFFICE
Henry Hann
Yvonne Saner
Robert Fogel
Krista Lewis
Katherine Tiblow
Warren Bushart
Superintendent of Schools
Asst. Superintendent for Curriculum
Asst. Superintendent for Business
Director of Pupil Services
Transportation
Food Services
332-3217
332-3211
332-3210
332-3214
332-3330
332-3262
NEWARK MIDDLE SCHOOL DIRECTORY
Mark Miller
Teresa Prinzi
Bobbi Cameron
Vanessa Stewart
Marlene McIlwain
Principal
Assistant Principal
Main Office Secretary
Main Office Secretary
Receptionist
332-3291
332-3296
332-3295
332-3306
332-3303
Kathy Sapp
Jim DeWitt
Tracy Altman
Matt May
Nichole Reinholtz
Ann Allerton
Guidance Secretary
School Psychologist
School Counselor
School Counselor
Prevention & Alcohol counselor
Nurse
332-3304
332-3335
332-3334
332-3307
332-3301
332-3305
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