Boissevain School Middle School Handbook 2012/2013 Table of Contents Page Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 2 Dates to Remember ..................................................................................................................... 3 School Information ....................................................................................................................... 4 Mission Statements and School Plan ........................................................................................... 5 Code of Conduct .......................................................................................................................... 6 Student Assistance Program ..................................................................................................... 7/8 Student Alcohol and Drug Policy ........................................................................................ 9/10/11 Positive Behaviour at Boissevain School .............................................................................. 12/13 Appropriate Behaviour (Grades 5 & 6) ....................................................................................... 14 General Information............................................................................................................... 15/16 Lockers ....................................................................................................................................... 17 Tests and Exams........................................................................................................................ 18 Dance Regulations ..................................................................................................................... 19 Student Services ........................................................................................................................ 20 Cafeteria and Lunchroom ........................................................................................................... 21 Breaks and Recesses ................................................................................................................ 22 Student Accident Insurance ....................................................................................................... 23 Student Council .......................................................................................................................... 24 Awards and Honour Roll ............................................................................................................ 25 Grade Promotion Policy ............................................................................................................. 26 Student Placement Policy ......................................................................................................... 27 School Library ............................................................................................................................ 28 User Fees/Extracurricular ...................................................................................................... 29/30 Bronco Gym Pass ...................................................................................................................... 31 Athletic Travel and Transportation Allowances........................................................................... 32 Computer Use Policies ..................................................................................................... 33/34/35 Volunteer Program ..................................................................................................................... 36 Parking Lot Guidelines ............................................................................................................... 37 Introduction The Middle School Handbook has been prepared to assist parents in familiarizing themselves with the general procedures and objective of the middle school. It is designed to present some of the details that are essential in the daily operation of the school. We encourage parents and students to contact teachers and school administration if they have any concerns. About our School Boissevain School is a Kindergarten to Grade 12 school with approximately 390 students, 30 teachers, and 22 support staff. The school offers its students the opportunity to acquire a sound education in a safe and caring environment. The responsibility for acquiring this education is shared by students, parents, and school staff, with the majority of that responsibility resting with the individual student. Academics are stressed in Boissevain School and the school encourages and supports students in putting forth their best efforts. Teachers are available for extra help at noon or after school, at their convenience. We also have a peer helper program, a guidance counselor, career education program, shared services workers and a student assistance program. We value characteristics such as originality, tenacity, honesty, fair play, and hard work, and we expect students to strive towards these characteristics. All students are expected to behave in a mature, age appropriate manner and to be good citizens of the school community. Middle School Handbook 2012– 2013 2 2012 - 2013 Calendar of Event SEPTEMBER 2012 September 4 ……….Admin. Day – No Classes September 5 ............First Day of Classes September 13 ........…Fall Kick Off 5-7pm September 13 ............Student Led Conference (9-12) 5-7pm September 14 ............High School Picture Day September 17 …….…P.D. Day – No Classes September 18 ............Primary Picture Day September 19 ……….Middle School Picture Day September 28 ……….Terry Fox Events OCTOBER 2012 October 8..............…Thanksgiving Day – No Classes October 12-13 …...…Varsity Girls Volleyball Tourn. October 15-18……….Scholastic Book Fair October 19 ............... PD Day – No Classes October 25-27……….Bronco Hockey Tourn. NOVEMBER 2012 November 6 ……….. Blood Donor Clinic November 7 .........…Remembrance Day Service November 9 ……….Admin. Day – No Classes November 13 ............K – 12 Reports November 12-14...….Drama Production November 15..............Parent/Teacher Interviews (K-12) 5-7pm DECEMBER 2012 December 11 .......... …Band Concert – 7:30 p.m. December 12 ........... Primary Christmas Concert December 21.............Last day of classes before …Christmas Break JANUARY 2013 January 7 ……..……Classes Resume January 8-11……….Prov. ELA Exam-Gr.12 January 11-12……… Varsity Girls Basketball Tourn. January 14................ Blood Donor Clinic January 24 ………...Student Led Conference (K-8) 5-7pm January 28 ………....9-12 Exams Begin Middle School Handbook 2012– 2013 FEBRUARY 2013 February 1 ………...Exams – Last Day February 4 ………...Admin Day – No Classes February 5 …………2nd Semester Begins February 18 ………..Louis Riel Day – No Classes February 26 ………..PD Day – No Classes MARCH 2013 March 8 …………...Admin Day – No Classes March 12 …………...K-8 Reports March 14 …………...Parent-Teacher Interviews (K-8) 5-7pm March 19 …………...Blood Donor Clinic March 19 …………...Spring Band Concert -7:30 pm March 25 …………...Spring Break Begins APRIL 2013 April 1 ……………..Classes Resume April 14-17…………Cantando Festival –Sr. Band April 16 …………….9-12 Reports April 17……………..Parent-Teacher Interviews (9-12) 5-7pm April 18 …………….Pre School Wellness Day April 22 …………….PD Day – No Classes April 23 …………….PD Day – No Classes MAY 2013 May 17-18 ................Bronco Fastball Tournament May 20 ……………...Victoria Day – No Classes May 28 ……………...Middle School Track & Field May 29 ......................Band Concert 7:30 pm May 30 ……………...Student Led Conference (K-12) 5-7pm JUNE 2013 June 4 .................... Division Track Meet June 5 ……………. AAA Spirit Day June 7 ………….....4-H Rally Day June 14–26 ..............Grades 7–12 Exams June 24 ………….....Graduation – 2 pm June 25 ....................Extra Curricular Awards June 27 ....................MS Awards Day June 27 ........................Last Day of Classes K-6/K-8 Reports June 28 ....................Admin Day/9-12 Reports 3 School Information General Office 534-2494 Website address: http://boissevainschool.ca Mr. B. White, Principal Mr. A. Hicks, Vice-Principal Administrative Assistants: Mrs. E. Stouffer, Mrs. J. Blanchard Grade Homeroom Teacher Grade 5 ...................................................................................... Mrs. C. Krowchuk Grade 6 ...................................................................................... Mrs. S. Corkish Grade 7 ...................................................................................... Ms. D. Willson Grade 8A .................................................................................... Mr. T. Laing Grade 8B……………………………………………………………...Ms. C. Dyck Subject/Area Teacher Grades 7 & 8 Industrial Arts ....................................................... Mr. S. Kleebaum Grades 7 & 8 Home Economics ................................................. Ms. D. Willson Grades 6, 7, & 8 Band ................................................................ Mrs. J. Lawson Grade 5 Music ............................................................................ Ms. L. Lauritsen Physical Education ..................................................................... Mr. J. Bartley / Mr. C. Billaney Grades 4-6 Resource ................................................................. Mrs. K. Clyne Grades 7 & 8 Resource .............................................................. Mrs. S. Stewart Guidance Counselor................................................................... Mr. B. Birch Grades 5 & 6 Class Times 8:55------------------------------------------------------------- O’Canada/Announcements 8:55-9:55------------------------------------------------------ Period 1 9:55-10:45 ---------------------------------------------------- Period 2 10:45-11:00 -------------------------------------------------- RECESS 11:00-11:50 -------------------------------------------------- Period 3 11:50-12:35 -------------------------------------------------- LUNCH 12:35-1:25 ---------------------------------------------------- Period 4 1:25-2:15------------------------------------------------------ Period 5 2:15-2:30 ----------------------------------------------------- RECESS 2:30-3:15------------------------------------------------------ Period 6 Grades 7 & 8 Class Times 8:55 ----------------------------------------------------------- O’ Canada/Announcements 8:55-9:55----------------------------------------------------- Period 1 9:55–10:50 -------------------------------------------------- Period 2 10:50–11:00 ------------------------------------------------- BREAK 11:00-11:50 ------------------------------------------------- Period 3 11:50–12:35 ------------------------------------------------ LUNCH 12:35-1:30 ---------------------------------------------------- Period 4 1:30–2:25 --------------------------------------------------- Period 5 2:25–2:30 --------------------------------------------------- BREAK 2:30–3:20 --------------------------------------------------- Period 6 Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 4 Mission Statements and School Plan Turtle Mountain School Division The students are the focus of all our efforts. The Division strives to provide an education that prepares individuals for a meaningful life in a changing world. We promote a learning environment that begins in the home, continues in the school and is supported by the community. Boissevain School To educate students with the skills to be responsible, contributing adults with a positive attitude for life and learning, acquired in a safe and secure environment. Boissevain School Plan The following goals are listed in the Boissevain School Plan. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. To ensure that students and staff operate within a safe and secure environment. To provide an opportunity for students to realize their academic potential. Staff will receive training and development to meet Manitoba Education requirements. To communicate effectively with staff, students, parents, and community. To foster and develop a positive school climate. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 5 Code of Conduct Students of Turtle Mountain School Division will be expected to behave in an age appropriate manner and to cooperate fully in the teaching/learning process with teachers, their fellow students and all others involved. All school personnel will strive to ensure that the educational process is accomplished as efficiently and with the least disruption possible. School personnel will be expected to follow the guidelines below when dealing with students who interfere with this process. Everyone engaged in the educational process in Turtle Mountain School Division, students and school personnel alike, will be expected to treat each other with respect and consideration. TURTLE MOUNTAIN SCHOOL DIVISION CODE OF CONDUCT SUMMARY Recording and Responsibility Type of Offence Probable Consequences Probable Consequences For Repeat Offence Appeals Process Verbal reprimand by teacher – parents contacted - Second reprimand – accompanied by loss of privileges as deemed necessary by teacher – after persistent (three or more) offences, notify administration. - Financial restitution -May result in suspension and/or contact of the RCMP - Parents contacted. - Loss of privileges - Financial restitution or property offences may result in suspension and/or involvement of the RCMP - Parents contacted - Loss of privileges 1.Issues of classroom discipline are always directed to the teacher 2. Follow-up is directed to school administration 3. For further follow-up contact the Superintendent 4. Appeal to the Board 1.Issues of classroom discipline are always directed to the teacher 2. Follow-up is directed to school administration 3. For further follow-up contact the Superintendent 4. Appeal to the Board - Teacher- reprimand -Loss of privileges, - Loss of marks - If severe, handled by Administration - Possible suspension - Possible suspension - Counselling - Administration involved - Parents contacted Minor Offences e.g. - lack of cooperation - unacceptable dress - swearing - class disruption Teacher or other adult observer. Teacher/Administration - Refer directly to administration if acts are severe or wilful - Handled by administration - Parents contacted Property Offences e.g. - vandalism - theft - arson Lack of Misconduct Respect/Academic Teacher racist/sexist remarks - defiance - lying/cheating - Internet /Electronic mail abuse Alcohol and Drug Abuse i.) Possession or use alcohol or illegal drugs of Teacher to report directly to school administration. ii) Selling drugs Smoking or Using Tobacco Products - Teacher to report directly to school administration. - Parents contacted i) Parents contacted -Min. 3 day suspension - RCMP contacted - Counselling ii) Parents contacted -Min. 5 day suspension/ possible expulsion - Board Appearance - RCMP contacted - Counselling - Handled by administration Min.1 hour school community service) - Suspension - Parents contacted 1.Issues of classroom discipline are always directed to the teacher 2. Follow-up is directed to school administration 3. For further follow-up contact the Superintendent 4. Appeal to the Board - Parents contacted - Longer suspension or expulsion - Involvement RCMP and - Counselling 1. Review discipline with administration 2. For further follow-up contact the Superintendent 3. Superintendent decisions are appealed to the Board - Parents contacted - Longer suspension or expulsion - Counselling 1. Review discipline with administration 2. For further follow-up contact the Superintendent 3. Superintendent decisions are appealed to the Board Offences threatening others - acts of violence - bullying - fighting - gross disrespect -harassment - weapons Teacher to report directly to administration - Parents contacted - Possible suspension - Counselling - Refer to outside agency RCMP contacted Refer to superintendent for possible long term suspension or expulsion RCMP contacted 1. Review discipline with administration 2. For further follow-up contact the Superintendent 3 Superintendent decisions are appealed to the Board NOTE: 1. In all cases, the adult observer will deal with the incident in the most appropriate fashion whether by dealing with the problem themselves or referring it up the chain of command. 2. Policy K-5 deals with concerns regarding Division staff and outlines the process parents or others should follow if they have concerns regarding disciplinary or other issues. Generally, parents should appeal most matters to the classroom teachers first, then Principal, then the Superintendent or Secretary-Treasurer and finally a review by the Board of Trustees. 3. Illegal acts will be referred to the RCMP. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 6 Student Assistance Program Mission Statement Education is the preparation for a meaningful life in a changing world. We are committed to focusing our efforts and resources on students and promoting academic success and the maximum development of each individual. We will actively foster personal and social development and encourage students to participate fully as members of a democratic society. Educational opportunities will be provided to assist students to enter fields of their choice. These ideals will be achieved through mutual respect, cooperation, trust and responsibility. Successful education begins in the home, continues in the school, and is supported by the community. The needs of our students are the focus of our efforts. Philosophy Consistent with the mission statement, it is the goal of the Boissevain School to provide a caring atmosphere and one of wellness for each student within our system. Many students exhibit behaviours of concern that affect their functioning in the total school environment. The school recognizes the need to have a systematic approach to offer assistance to these students. As part of this commitment, the school has implemented a Student Assistance Program. Rationale The purpose of the program is to identify students at an early stage of a problem(s), often noticeable by sudden or gradual behaviour changes. Plan Students will be encouraged to seek assistance if behaviours of concern are adversely affecting their performance in the total school environment. Teachers will try usual intervention strategies, in most cases, in order to address the concern(s) with the student. Teachers will inform the student that he/she will be referred to the school support team based on observable behaviour. (i.e. Incomplete homework, sleeping in class, etc.). Anyone can make a referral. Including self referrals, and referrals by community members, parents, students, siblings, teachers, etc. Referral will be made to a S.A.P. team member. The member will contact the Guidance Counselor who will compile preliminary data collection that may include attendance information, information from teachers regarding marks, performance, etc. It is the intent of the Student Assistance Program to work cooperatively with parents and guardians to assist in the resolution of student problems. Parents and guardians will be contacted as soon as possible, when appropriate. S.A.P. Team Team consists of the principal, vice-principal, guidance counselor, resource teachers, A.F.M. Counselor, school psychologist, and teacher representatives. Meetings are held on a regular basis A team member will be selected to monitor the progress of each student who has been referred. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 7 Student Assistance Program Flowchart Early Identification STAFF REFERRAL: Witnessed Use or Policy Violation PRINCIPAL Implements Standard Disciplinary Measures Manufacture, use, possession, sale, or delivery on school grounds or at school sponsored events Including One or More of the Following: -See SAP Counselor -Notify Parents -Notify Law Enforcement -Suspension -Recommendation for Expulsion -Mandatory Assessment STAFF REFERRAL Suspected AODA Problem CORE TEAM REFERRAL: Contact Person Core Team Member ALCOHOL/DRUG AGENCY REFERRAL OTHER REFERRALS: Parent Referral Self-Referral Peer Referral Community Referral STUDENT ASSISTANCE COORDINATOR/ GUIDANCE COUNSELLOR ASSESSMENT Data Collection Taken To Student Assistance Program Principal, Vice Principal, Guidance Counselor, Student Services, AFM Youth Counselor, Psychologist, Teacher Reps Student Action Plan Developed Parents RESOURCES Utilize Internal Resources Utilize External resources Monitor Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 8 Student Alcohol and Other Drug Policy Boissevain School’s position is that alcohol and other drugs, other than those medically prescribed, are not to be used by, nor be in the possession of individuals during school activities or student related activities, either on or off school property. Furthermore, no student is to be under the influence of alcohol or other drugs during school programs, activities or events. The purpose of this policy is to create a school environment that is alcohol and other drug free and to provide support services to students and to families of students involved detrimentally with alcohol and other drugs. The policy recognizes and is sensitive to the legal rights of all students. The major components of our approach to alcohol and other drug use, and their attendant problems are: Prevention Our goal: To provide an education process that encourages students to demonstrate knowledge, attitudes and skills that promote positive life style behaviour and well being concerning alcohol and other drugs by offering education and awareness programming, extracurricular offerings, support services and referrals. Intervention Our goal: To provide appropriate identification and interventions in an effort to help the individual seek appropriate corrective measures with respect to alcohol and drug related problems. Counseling/Rehabilitation Our goal: To provide support services to students and families with an identified alcohol or other substance abuse concern or problem. Staff Development Our goal: To provide training concerning the nature, signs, and symptoms of student alcohol and other drug use and to provide training to constructively respond to the problems of alcohol and other drugs. The administration will be responsible for coordinating and communicating school and divisional policies dealing with drugs and alcohol to parents, students, and community members at large. Disciplinary Procedures 1. The use or possession of alcohol and other drugs in the school or at school sponsored activities will not be tolerated and is a breach of school rules. The procedures provided herein will be applied consistently by all members of the school staff under the direction of the principal. 2. School personnel ensure that the student and parents/guardians are made aware of the nature and potential consequences of his/her actions. At all times, any action taken must first safeguard the life and health of the student(s). Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 9 Student Alcohol and Other Drug Policy Consequences 1. Use or possession of alcohol, other drugs, or drug paraphernalia Policy infractions listed below at first, second, and third infraction refer to the entire time the student is enrolled at Boissevain School. a) A first infraction will result in a 3-day out-of–school suspension. A meeting with parents/guardians, administration, and the student will take place prior to the student’s return to class. A referral will be made to the AFM counselor for an assessment and action plan development. Consent from parents/guardians and the student will be requested at the time of the meeting. If consent for counseling is not received or the student refuses to cooperate during the counseling, the student will be suspended for a total of 5 days. b) A second infraction will result in a 5-day out-of-school suspension and mandatory AFM assessment and action plan development. If consent for counseling is not received, the student will be required to go before the school board to obtain consent to return to class. c) A third infraction will result in a recommendation to the board for expulsion. The student will remain suspended until the board reaches its decision regarding expulsion. d) The administration will notify the R.C.M.P. who may become involved. Note: If the safety or well being of other students is at risk, normal procedures (a & b above) may be circumvented and a recommendation may be made to the superintendent for longer suspension or to the school board for expulsion. Any use of alcohol or drugs during any co-curricular activity will result in a minimum onemonth suspension from all co-curricular activities. At the end of one month, the suspension will be reviewed at which time a decision will be made by administration to either end or extend the suspension. 2. Trafficking a) Any infraction will result in an automatic suspension and in a recommendation to the board for expulsion. The student will be suspended until the board makes a decision regarding expulsion. b) The administration will report the incident to the police. c) The student will be referred to AFM for assessment and action plan development. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 10 Student Alcohol and Other Drug Policy Seizures of Alcohol, Other Drugs, and Drug Paraphernalia 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. The administration will be sent for immediately if any student is suspected of being in possession of alcohol, drugs, or drug paraphernalia. A reliable adult witness should be present when a staff member assumes possession of alcohol or illicit drugs from a student. The student should not be left unattended. The administration will ask for the student’s cooperation in emptying pockets, purses, knapsacks, etc. Please note that failure to cooperate with a search will result in the student being immediately suspended for 1-5 days and a report will be made to the R.C.M.P. Police involvement will be used at the discretion of the administration. The search of a student’s locker and personal effects within the locker will include a witness and the student, when possible. For any student suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, arrangements must be made for the student’s safe departure from the school property if required by either the parents, guardians, or police. All seized drugs, alcohol, and paraphernalia will be turned over to the R.C.M.P. These policies apply to all co-curricular activities. Documentation All incidents requiring disciplinary procedures will be documented. Documentation will include: date, time, location, witness, individuals involved, items seized, storage of seized items and details of the incident. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 11 Positive Behavior at Boissevain School In 2006/07, Boissevain School embraced the “4 Pillars for Learning and Being” as a framework for what we do at Boissevain School. The pillars and basic premise of the plan come from Sandra Dean’s “Together We Light the Way” program. The basis of the program is developing and promoting a culture of RESPECT. The program is a positive one that promotes teaching and modeling appropriate, positive behavior and attitudes. We believe that all partners in the school community must be part of the program to be successful. The diagram below shows the pillars and other features of the program. Resilient, Responsible, Respectful Citizen Eight Protective Factors A C A D E M I C R E S P E C T T E A M W O R K L E A D E R S H I P Four Guiding Principles Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 12 In 2006/07, a school wide “Respect Agreement” was devised with input of students, staff and PAC. All students and staff signed these agreements and they will form the basis of our school wide behavior plan. The Respect Agreements embody the “Bronco Spirit”! We interact respectfully. We respect ourselves and others. We focus on the positive. We respect property. We do our best! Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 13 Appropriate Behaviour Students in Boissevain School are expected to behave in an age appropriate manner. Respect for others and for property is expectations for all students. Three specific areas of inappropriate behaviour were identified by the teaching staff. Input on these behaviours was also obtained from student advisory representatives and the parent advisory council. Those areas are listed below. Lack of respect for property Examples of property offenses: Deliberate scuff marks on the floor Writing on desks, etc. Spilling food and not cleaning it up Not cleaning up disposable items when they are finished with them Consequences: Clean up Each incident will be reported to and recorded in the office at the teacher’s discretion Negative Comments Examples of unacceptable comments Consequences: towards or about an individual or group: The student must discuss and account for swearing their comments and/or actions (in any name calling consultation with an adult). teasing Incidents will be reported to and recorded in any comment or action that make a the office at the teacher’s discretion. person feel badly Please be aware that the administration will refer severe disrespect or harassment to the RCMP. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 14 General Information Student Behaviour Students are expected to behave in a mature manner at all times. They must be considerate and tolerant of others’ rights and feelings and must be good citizens of the school. To prevent accidents, rough play is not allowed on school property. Students are not allowed to eat sunflower seeds anywhere on campus. Cheating, including plagiarism, on tests, exams or assignments will results in a grade of 0 on that piece of work. Cell Phones TMSD Policy H-7, 4-V To protect the safety and privacy of its students and employees, Turtle Mountain School Division prohibits the use of cell phones by students on school property from the commencement of classes until dismissal at the end of the day. Students who do not comply with this policy will have their cell phones confiscated and returned at the end of the school day. Boissevain School Additional Policy Cell phones are not to be used at any school function (including field trips, dances, and extracurricular events under the direct supervision of a teacher), unless permission is granted by the supervisor. Names of students whose cell phones have been confiscated will be reported to the office. Confiscated phones are to be returned to the student at the end of the school day or function. Students who continue to ignore this policy will face further consequences. These may include parent contact to pick up the cell phone and suspension. Unacceptable CD’s/DVD’s/MP3’s CD’s/DVD’s/MP3’s with unacceptable content are not allowed in Boissevain School and will be confiscated. Attire Students are expected to dress in good taste. The midriff must be covered and shorts must be of mid-thigh length. No tank tops with spaghetti straps, tube tops, halter tops, muscle shirts, or crop tops are allowed. Items of clothing may not contain offensive messages (explicit or implied), words, or pictures. Clothing with profanity or alcohol, drug, or cigarette advertising is not allowed. Sunglasses are not to be worn in the school Hats may not be worn in the classroom. Students who are not suitably attired will be required to change immediately. Smoking Boissevain School is a smoke free site. Breakage/Damage/Vandalism Students who cause damage to school property will be required to reimburse the school division for such damages. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 15 General Information Bus Cancellation The school division has implemented a policy regarding the cancellation of school buses prior to the beginning of school each morning. Please listen to CJRB (1220 AM), The FARM (101.1 FM) or CKLQ (880 AM) to determine whether buses and school have been cancelled for the day. Rarely are school buses cancelled when school is in session. Should such a situation arise, students will be released as per the procedures set in place by the school. Student Pick Up Parents are encouraged to contact the school office when picking up their children at school during school hours. Textbooks Students will be issued textbooks. Students are expected to treat textbooks in such a way as to minimize wear and tear. Students are responsible for the textbooks issued and will be assessed a fine for any textbook assigned to them if the condition of the text has deteriorated beyond a normally acceptable level. Students can expect to be assessed fees for any lost texts or library books as well. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 16 Lockers Students in grades 5, 6, 7 and 8 will be assigned lockers. Under no circumstances should students leave valuables in their lockers. Students are encouraged to place locks on their lockers. The school will not be responsible for lost or stolen articles from lockers, whether they have locks or not. In addition, students must refrain from defacing lockers. Students are allowed to decorate the inside surfaces of their lockers. Decorations must be in good taste and of a temporary nature. They may not display alcohol or cigarette products or any picture of scantily clad or nude males or females. It is important to remember that lockers are the property of the school and are subject to search by school personnel, under the direction of the school administration. Abuse of locker privileges may result in the loss of the use of a locker. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 17 Tests and Exams Quality of Work In general, all students will be expected to do neat, high quality work. Work of inferior quality will need to be redone at the discretion of the teacher. Test Policy The maximum number of tests a particular student should write in Grades 5-8 will be 2 per day. Teachers should have reviewed with the students and should have supplied the class with a test outline at lease 1 day prior to the test. Exam Policy All grades 7 and 8 students will write final examinations in Math, Language Arts, Science and Social Studies. These exams will be worth 20% of the final mark for grade 7 students and 25% of the final mark for grade 8 students. Students may be exempt from writing Science and Social Studies if their yearly average is 85% or higher and they have demonstrated excellent behaviour and work habits throughout the year. Exam Guidelines 1. All exams will be written in the classroom. Special permission may be granted by the classroom teacher for students to write in alternate locations. (i.e. resource room). 2. Grade 7 and 8 exams will be approximately 2 hours in length. 3. Exams will start at 9:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. 4. Hats, coats, and pencil cases are not allowed at the student’s seat. 5. Students must remain in the classroom for a minimum of one hour. 6. If a student must leave the classroom, a supervisor must accompany him/her. 7. Any student that has any overdue and/or late assignments will not be eligible for an exemption in that course. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 18 Dance Regulations 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. No drugs, alcohol or tobacco products are allowed at dances. Students are not to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. No outside food/drink is allowed. The R.C.M.P. will be called if students have consumed or are in possession of alcohol or drugs. Coats are to be left on the coat rack, not in lockers or the gymnasium. Only Boissevain grades 7 and 8 students are allowed at the Grades 7 and 8 dances. An exception may be made for the last dance of the year when Minto Grades 7 and 8 students may be invited. Dances may begin from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.. Doors will be locked a half hour after they are opened. Students who choose to leave after the doors are locked will not be readmitted to the dance. At least one teacher chaperone and one parent chaperone will be at each dance. It is the responsibility of the students to secure the chaperones no later than noon of the day preceding the dance. One ceiling light is to be left on at all times. (See custodian) All purses, bags, and containers are subject to inspection. Purses, bags, and containers are to be left with the chaperone. Students disobeying the rules will be sent home. Their parents will be contacted, and they will not be allowed to attend future dances during the school year. Students are not permitted to go to their lockers during dances. Students are to be in the front hall of the gymnasium only. A copy of the rules is to be distributed to all chaperones prior to the dance. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 19 Student Services Resource Program The resource program from grade 7 to grade 12 will provide remedial instruction in one-to-one or small group situations. The assistance may be in the form of a pull-out program or in-classroom assistance. The resource teacher will also supervise instructional assistants. The purpose of the grade 7 to grade 12 resource program is to provide academic support to all students in these grades. This support may take a variety of forms. The resource room is available during the noon break for students who want extra help in regular courses throughout the school year. There is always at least one teacher or teacher assistant available to assist students. During exam time, the resource teacher can help students with their study habits. The resource program also provides teacher assistants in regular classrooms. These assistants may provide support to all students in the classroom or to specific individuals. Guidance Counselor A guidance counselor is available to all students from kindergarten to grade 12. The guidance counselor’s role includes: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. assisting students with career exploration and planning providing student support addressing school related and personal issues as requested providing guidance curriculum for the school providing responsive services as required, and coordinating the Peer Helper Program. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 20 Cafeteria & Lunchroom Cafeteria The cafeteria will open in early September and usually operates until the end of May each school year. Cafeteria services are available daily. The cafeteria is operated by the Boissevain School for the benefit of the students. While prices tend to fluctuate, they are generally lower than other eating facilities in town. The noon break for primary students is from 11:50 a.m. to 12:35 p.m. Cafeteria orders MUST be in by 10:30 a.m. each day. Lunch Break All students in K-12 are to eat their lunch in the south gym unless special permission has been obtained to do otherwise. Students must remain in the lunchroom until at least 12:05 p.m. and must leave the gym by 12:10 p.m. Once students have chosen where they wish to spend the remainder of their lunch break, they are to remain there until 12:30. Middle school students have the option of going to the library for study purposes, going to the gym when their intramurals are in progress, or going outside. During inclement weather at noon break, middle school students not in the library or intramurals are to go their middle school homeroom. Students are not to be in the hallways. Transported and town students in K-8 who usually eat lunch at school, must have a note from a parent or guardian to leave the school property at noon. Please stress this to students. Staff are to refer to the office, any transported student in K-8 they notice off school property at noon. Lunchroom Rules 1. Running, yelling or loud behavior is not allowed 2. Any mess is to be cleaned up by the person who made it. 3. Garbage is to be placed, not thrown in the garbage cans provided. 4. All food is to be eaten in the lunchroom. 5. Students must remain seated while in the lunchroom. 6. Recyclable items should be placed in the proper containers. 7. Sharing food is discouraged. 8. Students must remove hats while in the lunchroom. 9. After lunch, students are to put away their lunch containers and proceed directly to the library (permission slips needed), computer room, gym, or outside. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 21 Breaks and Recesses Breaks Students in grades 7 and 8 will have a 10 minute break in the morning and a 5 minute break in the afternoon. During those times, students are expected to use the washroom, if needed, and organize their materials for the next class. Recesses Students in grades 5 and 6 will have two 15 minute recesses each day; one in the morning and one in the afternoon. The following rules apply: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Students are to be on the southwest part of the playground. All students in grades 5 and 6 are expected to go outside at recess unless they have a note from a parent/guardian or are supervised by a staff member. Students are not to be on the raised cement pad or the parking lot at the south entrance at recess or noon break. Students are not to play football, soccer, etc. on the terrace or pavement next to the classroom windows. Students are not to be on the east lawn at recess or noon hour. All rough play is to be discouraged by the supervisor on duty and the students engaging in rough play are to be warned, or sent to the office if persistent or flagrant. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 22 Student Accident Insurance The purchase of student accident insurance is encouraged and is the responsibility of individual parents. Students who travel outside the country on school trips must have purchased accident insurance before they will be allowed to participate in the trip. This includes ski trips to Bottineau. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 23 Student Council Students in grades 5-8 will hold student council elections in June each year. Student council positions are president, vice-president and secretary. The student council president must be chosen from grade 7 or grade 8. Classrooms will choose 2 representatives to attend student council meetings and to assist in student council activities. Representatives on student council must be progressing satisfactorily in their school work and must be approved by the middle school staff. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 24 Awards and Honour Roll Middle School Awards The following academic awards will be given to students each year: Honour Roll Honor Roll – 85% to 89.5% Honor Roll with Great Distinction – 90% to 94.5% Honor Roll with Greatest Distinction – 95% to 100% Grades 7 & 8 Honour Roll Any student with an average of 85% or higher will receive an Honour Roll Certificate. Students failing a course are ineligible. The marks will be based on the following breakdown: Language Arts ................................................ 30% Math ............................................................... 30% Science .......................................................... 15% Social Studies................................................. 15% Option Courses .............................................. 10% Students choosing to drop a course anytime after Spring Break will have that course’s mark calculated as 0% towards honour roll. Grades 5 & 6 Honour Roll Any student with an average of 85% or higher will receive an Honour Roll Certificate. Students failing a course are ineligible. The marks will be based on the following breakdown: Gr. 5 Language Arts ............................................... 40% Math ............................................................... 40% Science .......................................................... 10% Social Studies................................................. 10% Option Courses .............................................. Gr. 6 35% 35% 10% 10% 10% Grade 7 & 8 - Bronco Sports Awards One award will be presented in each grade. Award winners will be chosen by coaches, phys. Ed. staff and the homeroom teacher. Criteria Coachability (positive attitude, consistently gives full effort, works to improve) A team player who is respectful of others Shows sportsmanship Grade 7 & 8 – Bronco Leadership Award One award will be presented in each grade. Award winners will be chosen by coaches, student government advisors, and the homeroom teacher. Criteria Shows leadership Respectful of self and others Demonstrates responsibility Has strong organization skills Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 25 Grade Promotion Policy Academic If a student fails any two courses, they will be placed under consideration for repeating the current grade. Age The age of the student should be another factor when considering whether or not a student should repeat a grade. Teachers should also consider what sort of influence a student will have on upcoming students. An example for this would be a student who has previously repeated two grades. Performance Potential Teachers should consider if the student has consistently worked to his/her maximum potential. Skill Level An assessment of the student’s skill level must be made to determine whether he/she possesses the necessary skills to be successful in the next grade. Social Considerations Sometimes repeating, or not repeating a grade will be socially advantageous for a student. The effect of repeating a grade on a student’s social/emotional health is also considered. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 26 Student Placement Policy (Grades 1-8) Class placements for the following school year will be sent home on the final report card on the last day of classes each year. Staff teams strive to create classes that are heterogeneous and balanced in all respects. The following are all considered when determining class lists: Student abilities Our knowledge of social interactions and dynamics between individual students and groups of students. Student/teacher match Placement of students new to Boissevain School Male/female ratio Special needs and availability of teacher assistants. Approximately equal class sizes at any grade level Parents can assist the class formation process by: 1. Helping their children to understand the importance of class formation. 2. Supporting placements that have been made. Parental requests for placements with supporting reasons must be in to the administration by June 10. Requests will be considered, but not necessarily granted. Given appropriate support at home and at school, it has been our experience that the vast majority of placements are successful. Where a placement is proving to be difficult, we ask that parents and students give it the time required for friendships to develop and comfort level to increase. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 27 School Library The school library offers reading and resource materials to students and staff from K-Senior 4 in the form of books, magazines, records, films, teaching machines, maps, pictures, internet, and word processing computers. To enable everyone to utilize all library facilities to the maximum, personnel are required to maintain an atmosphere of quiet and order. All library borrowers are expected to treat all supplies with care and respect. Library hours are 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. During the noon break from 12:00 to 12:35 the library is considered a supervised study hall. Study hall is a time of quiet. Students should bring either homework or a book to read. Special times may be arranged upon request. This enables students and staff to further pursue assignments. Parents are also encouraged to use the library. Students will be able to borrow books for a 2-week period. Staff and parents may make special arrangements for a longer borrowing period. Students are required to pay for books and supplies that are lost or damaged. Regular library periods are held for K-8 students. There is a story time for all students in K-4. Library skills are introduced in the care and handling of books, location of books and encyclopedia research. Reading and research promotions are held throughout the year to encourage reading and to teach skills. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 28 User Fees/Extracurricular The following user fees have been set for the 2012/2013 school year. All fees are to be paid to the Boissevain School, with the exception of band fees. Band fees may be paid to the school or to the Boissevain Music Boosters. Course fees are requested the first week of school and must be paid no later than September 30, 2012. Fees not paid will result in the student doing an alternative activity until the fee has been paid. A payment plan may be arranged by contacting the administration. 2012/2013 User Fees Middle School Course Fees Band ....................................................... $ 55.00 Senior High Course Fees Band ....................................................... $ 55.00 Choir....................................................... $ 10.00 Sports Fees Badminton – Junior ………………………$ 20.00 Baseball ................................................. $125.00 Basketball Varsity ......................................... $175.00 Junior Varsity .............................. $125.00 Junior .......................................... $ 40.00 5/6 ............................................... $ 20.00 Fastball ................................................... $150.00 Golf ......................................................... Cost of Green Fee/Entry Fees Hockey ................................................... $375.00 plus Hockey Manitoba Fee Track and Field....................................... $ 50.00 Volleyball Varsity ......................................... $175.00 Junior Varsity .............................. $125.00 Junior .......................................... $ 50.00 Athletes may be required to help with fundraising activities in addition to paying the above fees. All athletes are required to work in the canteen for two weeks for each sport they participate in to help offset the costs for transportation, tournament entry fees and uniforms. Some athletes may be scheduled to change the school sign instead of working in the canteen. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 29 User Fees/Extracurricular Attendance A student must attend school the day of an event, in order to participate in an activity on that day. Any exception to this rule must be made by the administration. School Performance Students are expected to put an honest effort into their school work and behave appropriately in class. Loss of extracurricular privileges may occur otherwise. User fees Students must pay their user fee prior to playing the first game. Coaches are responsible for ensuring that user fees are collected prior to their first game and that uniforms are returned when the season is complete. All school rules apply to any extracurricular trip. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 30 Bronco Gym Pass A Bronco Gym Pass will be sold for $5.00 to Boissevain School Students. This pass is good for any sport league game, excluding hockey games at the rink. Each game attended will earn a stamp on the pass and when a student has a fully stamped card (8 games) they will receive a promotional item as well as a 2nd card free. A Bronco Gym Pass will be sold for $10.00 to adults. This pass is good for any sport league games only. Tournaments and hockey games at the rink are excluded. A gate fee of $3.00 for adults and $2.00 for students (middle and senior high) will be charged for varsity volleyball and basketball games. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 31 Athletic Travel and Transportation Allowances Each coach is responsible for obtaining transportation for his team to attend games or tournaments. The coach has the choice of using a school bus, renting a van, or having parents drive. Each should be considered according to their costs. Buses Vans – Parents – transportation allowance as per the chart below Total distance (km) 50 – 100 101 – 200 201 – 300 301 – 450 451 – 600 Allowance $15 $20 $30 $50 $60 Sample Destinations Deloraine, Killarney Brandon, Wawanesa, Souris Reston, Virden, Treherne Portage Winnipeg Drivers of the vehicles will also be reimbursed their room costs for overnight events. Note: Administration reserves the right to refuse indemnity to drivers based on the number of players being transported. Coaches are to keep records of vehicles used, distance traveled and hotel costs. Copies of these records will be used by the Administration in calculating reimbursement amounts. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 32 Computer Use Policies Technology Use Policy It is a general expectation that Boissevain School computer resources are to be used in a responsible, efficient, ethical and legal manner. Document folders are provided for storage of files used for school related work. Network administrators may, at their discretion, review user storage folders and files to maintain system integrity and to ensure that the system is being used responsibly. Users should not expect that files stored on school computers are private. All students are encouraged to BACK up their work on appropriate storage media (removable media or assigned hard disk space), loss of files due to disk problems are NOT the responsibility of the system administrators. General Expectations Failure to abide by the following rules and policies may result in the loss or suspension of computer privileges. Treat the computers with respect and care. There is to be NO food or drink in any computer lab or near any computer in the school (food / drink will be confiscated). Report computer problems promptly to your teacher. Do not attempt to repair computers yourself. Internet access forms are REQUIRED for any access to the internet at the school. Internet access forms MUST be completed and returned to the office or homeroom teacher. The installing, uploading or downloading of software, music, etc. is not allowed unless you have the consent of a teacher, the school administration or the technology leader. On-line games may be played during noon or after school. On-line games may also be played during class time, with the teacher’s permission. Games with inappropriate content or excessive violence are not allowed at any time. Students working on classroom related work have priority over the computers. Chat lines, bulletin boards, discussion forums, etc and e-mail are not to be accessed at the school unless as part of a school course with that teacher’s permission. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 33 THE FOLLOWING ARE NOT PERMITTED ON SCHOOL COMPUTERS Failure to abide by the following rules and policies will result in a referral to the administration and a long term suspension or permanent loss of privileges. Sending, displaying or soliciting offensive messages or pictures. Using obscene language, symbols, or gestures. Harassing, insulting, or bullying others. Vandalism; willful damage & abuse of… o computer equipment o computer systems o computer networks o computer files o software Using other’s accounts, including trespassing in other’s folders, documents or files and damage to another’s files. Using the computers for illegal purposes. Accessing inappropriate internet sites. On-line gambling. Excessive waste of print material. After School Use Of Computers The computer labs may be used outside school hours by grade 5 - 12 students according to the following policy. All computer use policies are in force outside school hours, abuse of this privilege WILL result in suspension of computer use privileges. Grades 9 - 12 Students in grades 9 - 12 may use the computer labs until 9:30 pm on school days. Grades 9 - 12 students may use the lab on weekends. Weekend use MUST be approved by the principal or vice principal and the student(s) MUST be let in by a teacher. The teacher giving access to the lab must sign the permission slip. Additional rules apply to weekend use and are listed on the permission form. Middle School Students in middle school MUST be under the supervision of a teacher (ie. the teacher must be present in the school and check on students every 10 - 15 minutes). Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 34 Printing It is a general expectation that Boissevain School computer resources are to be used in a responsible and efficient manner. Teachers and students are encouraged to conserve paper and ink - both to decrease costs and to play a small role in keeping the environment clean. Failure to abide by the policies set out will result in the loss of printing or computer privileges. Printing Charges for personal printing: Approval and payment are to be obtained BEFORE printing. 25¢ per page for black/white $1.00 for colour Use common sense when printing from the internet. Users are asked to cut/paste what is needed before printing several pages of unnecessary material! Printing large amounts of information from the internet will be subject to the charges above. Proofread carefully BEFORE printing! Students are allowed to print one copy only per assignment. (paper wasted due to printing extra copies, not proofreading, etc. will be charged as ‘personal use’). Ensure that only the pages required are printed. Make sure you are printing to the desired printer BEFORE printing! Printer quotas may be set by the administrator. Permission to exceed the quota in special cases must be obtained from the system administrator or teacher. Teachers are encouraged to accept work in electronic form where feasible to help cut down on wasted paper and ink. Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 35 Volunteer Program The Boissevain Parent Advisory Council and Boissevain School hope to organize a Parent/Community Volunteer Program. We feel there are many important reasons for parent/community involvement in the school. Some of these reasons are: Providing support staff and students Promoting communication between home, school and community Building a strong foundation for the importance of education Providing an opportunity to share your skills and knowledge with others Providing a better understanding of school programs and curriculums Sharing some quality time with others Community adults may participate in one or more of the activities outlined below. Administrative Assistance - typing classroom projects - preparing books for classroom use - proofreading Senior Keyboarding assignments - preparing posters/charts/booklets/bulletin boards/games/etc Working with Students - working with individual students - working with small groups - computer assistance or supervision Library - processing new material - working at annual Book Fair - assisting with librarian duties Special Areas - supervision of field trips/special events - accompanist for choirs - assist in specific areas of interest (art, cooking, drama, crafts, creative writing, science, sewing, speech arts, music) Special Programs Supervision of recycling program (once per month from 12:15-12:35 p.m.) Supervision of playground program (once every 2 months from 12:00 – 12:35 p.m.) Supervision of bike rodeo program (only once - in May of each year) Assistance at K-4 AAA Spirit Day (only once - in June each year) Volunteers may choose the grade level(s) they wish to work with and whether they help out regularly or occasionally. For further information please contact Allan Hicks, Vice-Principal at 534-2494. * Note : Volunteers must have Criminal Records Check & Child Abuse Registry checks done (for regular/long-term volunteer activities). Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 36 Parking Lot Guidelines Middle School Handbook 2012 - 2013 37