Morehead Middle School
Student Handbook
2014-2015
Morehead Middle School
5625 Confetti
El Paso, Texas 79912
(915) 231-2140 (Main)
(915) 587-5355 (Fax)
Principal
Armando Gallegos
The El Paso Independent School District adheres to all Title IV regulations prohibiting
discrimination because of race, color, or national origin; Title IX regulations prohibiting sex
discrimination; complies with section 504 and does not discriminate against disadvantaged or
handicapped persons. Inquiries concerning the application of Title IV, IX, and 504 may be referred
to the district compliance officer.
Administrative and Counseling Staff
Principal-Armando Gallegos
Assistant Principal-Gabriela Cortez (A-L)
Assistant Principal-Michael Coppock (M-Z)
Counselor-Margarita Hernandez Arguelles
Counselor- Mary Stewart
Campus Staff
Nurse-Nancy Haegele
Principal’s Secretary-Linda Jurado
PEIMS Clerk-Noemi Gonzales
Registrar-Maria Elena Pando
Attendance Clerk-Gabriel De La Cruz
Bookroom Clerk-Lola Pargas
Cafeteria Manager-Ofelia Garcia
Nutrition ClerkClerk LPAC-Betsaida Fierro
Parent Engagement Leader-Patricia Gonzalez
Campus Patrol-Vicente Arroyo
Campus Patrol-Luis Ramos
EPISD Police-Officer Pedro Gaytan
Head Custodian-Jesus Munoz
Assistant Head Custodian-Carlos Duarte
Librarian-Sherrilyn Morris
Literacy Coach-Magen Ellison
Math Coach-Julio Escajeda
Diagnostician-Liliana Lara
Speech Therapist-Cindy Arias
PTA President-Kristi Mena
The Morehead Mission Statement:
Morehead Middle School will provide the
highest quality instruction for all student
populations, through the improvement of
literary skills, math skills, language
development, communication skills,
physical fitness, technology, and a balanced
form of instruction that leaves no child left
behind.
The Morehead Vision Statement:
The faculty and staff of Morehead Middle
School believe that all children can learn
and we are dedicated to each student
learning something new in every class every
day.
ATTENDANCE/TARDY POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Students are required by law to be in class at least 90% of the school days. Students not in
compliance with the state law (Education Code-Chapter 25), regardless of the reasons for the
absences, will not receive credit for the year. Absences are not automatically excused. Punctuality
is very important. When a student is late to class, everyone is interrupted. If a student is late to
class, he/she will be assigned detention. Please refer to the detention policy as stated above. It is
the student's responsibility to notify their parents of the detention to ensure transportation. Notes
will not be accepted for tardiness. Parents must come into the building and see the Attendance
Clerk and sign the student in as late. There are no excused tardies between classes unless
accompanied by a pass from a teacher, administrator or Attendance Clerk. Students who fail to
attend detention will be assigned more detention, ISS, or out of school suspension until the original
penalty is taken care of. Students with excessive tardies may be assigned ISS and placed on the
restriction list. The restriction list prevents students from attending assemblies, dances and any
other extracurricular activities. A student who has unexcused absences for 10 or more days or
partial days in six months or three or more days or partial days in four weeks must be referred to
the juvenile court for violations of the Compulsory Attendance Law. A parent wishing to withdraw
a student from school must present a signed request to the principal or designee stating the reason
for the withdrawal and the effective date
Eligibility
The state has adopted eligibility policies. By law no student may participate in school-sponsored
extracurricular activities unless the student maintains a passing grade in all subjects. The student's
grade will be reevaluated at the end of three weeks. If the student is passing all his/her classes
he/she will regain eligibility seven days after the third week of each grading period or seven days
after each grading period. Eligibility requirements apply to all school activities where Morehead
students are involved.
Releasing of students
In an effort to ensure the safety of all of our students, we require identification before releasing a
student to anyone. That person must appear on the student’s demographic profile. By law, if
parents are legally separated or divorced, each parent has equal rights to the custody of the child,
unless there is a court order that indicates which parent has custody of the student during the
school days. The school must have a copy of the court order on file, otherwise, either parent may
check the student out of school if their name is on the demographic information form. Please
keep in mind, emergency cards that are filled out by parents are for emergency purposes only
and cannot be used to authorize the picking up of a student for any other reason other than
illness. Any student being picked up by someone, other than his/her parent or legal guardian (ex.
stepparent, grandparents, siblings, etc.) must provide written permission by parent/legal
guardian. In addition, the person picking up the student must provide identification. To avoid
interruption to class instruction and appointment delay, please provide a note on the day of
appointment with pick up time and have student come to front office before school to validate
note which in turn will be shown to teacher for release at specified time.
TARDY POLICY
At Morehead Middle School, it is our belief that each child should be entitled to the maximum
instructional time each day and each period. Therefore, a tardy policy will be implemented that
supports and reinforces this philosophy. The goal of this policy is to reduce classroom and school
disruptions due to students’ tardiness. Students will benefit most when they arrive to their classes
on time. Having the cooperation of the students will allow the teachers to teach from bell to bell.
The administration fully believes that this tardy policy will promote academic success by
providing a more disciplined and rigorous standards-based learning environment. The school
staff realizes incidents occur that can cause students to arrive late. Our staff will take this into
consideration when the student is tardy. If a student believes he/she has a valid excuse for
being tardy, he/she will have an opportunity to talk to an administrator. The tardy will be
excused at the administrator’s discretion.
All periods will be lock outs and doors will be closed as soon as the tardy bell rings. Students
will have to report to the nearest tardy station and receive a tardy slip from an administrator,
teacher or campus patrol. There will be tardy station located in each hallway. No student should
be allowed in the classroom without a tardy slip. If student does not find a tardy station he/she
must report to the attendance office. After arriving to the classroom with a tardy slip the student
MUST sign the teacher tardy log. Any late student will not be allowed in class without a
tardy slip.
Students are expected to arrive to class on time, ready to participate and learn. Students are
expected to plan their time effectively so that they may arrive to class in a timely manner.
Failure to report to class on time will result in the following disciplinary actions:
1st Tardy: Verbal Warning by Teacher
2nd Tardy: Teacher Conference with Student (Teacher contacts parent)
3rd Tardy: Lunch Detention
4th Tardy: Friday Detention
5th Tardy: Administrative Conference with Student– Consequences can include ISS, OSS or
DAEP recommendation (Administrator contacts parent).
AREAS AROUND CAMPUS
Students are to remain with any teacher that issued them a pass until the 7:50 bell. Students who
enter the school before classes begin in the morning must go to one of the following places:
1. Library
• The library is open for those who need to study.
• Students should go directly to the library, not to other areas.
• Students cannot leave the library until the 7:40 bell.
2. Specific classrooms
• Students must have a pass.
• Students should go directly to the classroom, not to other areas.
• Students cannot leave the classroom until the 7:40 bell.
3. Cafeteria
• Students using the cafeteria should visit quietly or study. Students not complying
will be asked to leave.
• Students shall pick up all their trays and utensils and discard them in the proper
place.
• Students shall not congregate in-groups. If you are not seated you must leave the
cafeteria.
• Students cannot take food or drinks out of the cafeteria at any time.
4. Playing areas
• Students shall play only on the blacktop and the field.
• Students should play football (no tackling permitted) on the field.
• Students should play basketball on the blacktop.
• Physical Education classes have priority during the lunch shifts. Do not disturb
P.E. classes.
• Students should play soccer on the field.
• If a ball should go out of the fenced area, permission to retrieve it will be given
by the administration.
• Students should use caution in not throwing their tennis balls on the roof.
• Students are to remain in the blacktop area during lunchtime
• Students are not permitted on LBJ (elementary school) grounds at any time
• At no time will fighting or rough play be permitted. Always take care not to pull
on other students or tear their clothing. Rolling on the ground (break dancing) is
not permitted. At no time may any item that may injure a child be thrown anywhere
on the school grounds, such as rocks, sticks, snow balls, dirt, balls, etc. Do not run
through organized games.
BACKPACKS/PURSES
Students are allowed to bring backpacks and purses to and from school only. Backpacks/purses
are allowed in the classroom. Backpacks/purses are allowed in physical education class but must
be placed in the locker room. Backpacks/purses are the student’s responsibility at all times.
BELL SCHEDULES
The first bell of the day will ring at 7:40 a.m. and the last bell will ring at 2:50 PM. Classes begin
at 7:50 a.m.
BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL
The school building will be open at 7:00 a.m. each morning. Breakfast will begin to be served as
of 7:00 a.m. and will end at 7:40 a.m. During inclement weather, students may enter the cafeteria
for shelter. Students without business after school are required to leave the campus immediately
after 2:50 p.m. No student is to be in the building after school hours unless under the supervision
of school personnel. There is no security prior to 7:00 a.m. and after 3:30 p.m.
BICICLES, SKATEBOARDS, ROLLERBLADES, SCOOTERS, ETC.
No skate boards, skates, roller blades or scooters are allowed on campus at any time. This rule
will be enforced at all extracurricular activities. Under no circumstances will a student be
permitted to drive a car. Students may not ride bicycles on school grounds. Walk them to and
from the bike rack.
BULLYING
At Morehead, bullying is not tolerated. Please report bullying immediately. Any student who is
observed bullying another student must immediately referred to administration.
BUS POLICY
Based on Texas Law, bus transportation is provided for students who live outside a two-mile radius
of the school. Appeals of the two mile limit must be made to Westside Transportation, 581-6406.
Students will be provide a bus card upon registration, they will be required to show them daily.
Replacement ID cards will cost $2.00. Replacements are issued in the bookroom.
Bus transportation to and from school or school sponsored activity is a privilege. The behavior of
students on school buses is a concern for everyone involved with school transportation. It is the
responsibility of each bus rider to behave in an orderly and courteous manner to ensure the safety
and well-being of all passengers.
Students should obey the bus driver at all times and treat the driver with the same courtesy they
show their classroom teachers and parents. Bus rider rules are clearly posted on each bus. Students
should review these rules regularly and ask the bus driver for clarification of the rules if needed.
Parents will be notified if there is misconduct by a student on the bus. If such misconduct
continues, the student's bus riding privileges may be suspended by a school administrator for one
day or for up to an entire semester.
Bus Behavior Rules
All students riding the bus will sign a Bus Behavior Rules Agreement at registration or as bus
cards are issued during the year. This agreement spells out the rules and consequences. Strict
compliance of bus rules is mandatory to keep your bus privilege. Do not do anything that might
make the driver take his or her attention off driving. You could cause an accident. The Student
Code of Conduct is in effect while on the bus or waiting for the bus.
Bus Safety Rules
• Be on time to the bus stop.
• Stay off the road at all times while waiting for the bus.
• Never walk toward the bus when it is moving.
• Sit in the first empty space available. • Do not save seats for friends.
• Help the driver by being quiet on the bus.
• Keep your head and hands inside the bus at all times.
• Stay in your seat.
• Don't throw any objects inside the bus or out the windows. • Do not eat or drink on the
bus.
• Keep the bus clean.
• All tobacco products are prohibited.
• Do not chew gum on the bus.
• Do not be destructive.

No radios, CD or cassette players, pagers, cellular phones or other communication devices
are permitted on the buses.
• The bus driver is authorized to assign seats.
• While waiting to get on the bus, stand away from the bus where the driver can see you.
Do not walk up to the bus until the driver opens the door for you
• If you drop something and it falls under the bus, tell the driver. DO NOT REACH
UNDER THE BUS!
• Get on and off the bus quietly. Never push or shove at the door, and always use the
handrail.
Withdrawal of Bus Privilege
Students placed in Alternative Education Programs will lose their bus privilege while in these
programs. Students will also lose their bus privilege for disciplinary problems at the bus pickup
and drop off points,
A "Bus Conduct Report" form will be issued for bus conduct problems. Students may be suspended
from riding the bus due to conduct problems. Gross misconduct may provoke immediate removal;
in other situations, the student will be placed on probation and given the opportunity to change
his/her behavior and possibly avoid suspension. Bus suspension will depend on the severity and
frequency of the offense(s).
Bus Pickup and Drop Off Points
All students riding the buses will be dropped off in the bus circle in the morning. In the afternoon,
the buses will load in the circle. Only School Buses will be allowed in the bus circle. Students shall
be at their designated pick up points in the morning and be dropped off at the same point in the
afternoon. Student shall ride the bus and trip assigned to them.
Automobile Pick ups
Cars must not stop on Mesa or Confetti to drop off or pick up students.
Please leave early to avoid the traffic jam. Students are to be dropped off in front of the school in
the morning. Do not drop off in the left-hand lane. The left lane is reserved for moving traffic.
Upon dismissal at 2:50 p.m., students are to be picked up in the front of the school. Observe and
follow all traffic instructions and those directing traffic. SEE MAP BELOW.
Parents are urged to pick up their students prior to 3:30 p.m. There is no security or supervision
after that time.
Exit from the pick-up zone is a Right turn only.
Entrance to the pick-up zone. There is no stopping or pick-up on Mesa or Confetti streets!
CAFETERIA
Breakfast and Lunch
Morehead students may participate in the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program. To apply
for free or reduced priced meals, parents must complete the application form and return it to the
Nutritional Clerk. Incomplete applications could result in delaying processing.
Students may bring their sack lunch. The school requests that no fast foods be delivered to the
students. All students will be encouraged to have lunch every day. Prices are subject to change by
board approval.
Students are required to enter their ID number at the register after picking up their lunch. Students
who forget their lunch or lunch money cannot charge a lunch.
Advance purchases of meals can be made before school. For advance purchase, students must
report to the Nutritional Clerk who will use their Id. number to credit each student's meal account.
Discipline
• Students will be disciplined for the throwing of food no matter how small.
• No excuses will be accepted for throwing food.
Cafeteria Rules and Regulations
• Students should stand quietly in line.
• Students should not lean on tables or disturb other students who are already seated.
• Students who bring sack lunches and are buying milk/drink should get in line with the
other students.
• Students should sit at the first empty place at a table.
• Students should not reserve seats or a place in line for friends.
• Students shall not cut in line.
• If a student leaves the line he/she shall start at the end of the line.
• Students shall not congregate in standing groups and if not seated must leave the cafeteria.
• The cafeteria personnel will not make loans for meals.
At the Table
• Students should talk in a normal tone and not yell to or at students at nearby tables.
• Students should use good manners at all times at the table.
• Students should show the same courtesy to cafeteria personnel as they do to their teachers
and parents.
• Students are not to bring anything in a glass container with their lunch.
• Students are not to place backpacks or playground balls on the table.
Leaving the Cafeteria
Students should check that the trash on top of and underneath their table is picked up before leaving
to empty their trays and place their chair under the table. Students will be disciplined for leaving
trash or trays on the table.
CANDY
Foods of Minimal Nutritional Value may not be sold or given to students on school premises by
school administrators or staff (principals, coaches, teachers, etc.), students or student groups,
parents or parent groups, guest speakers, or any other person, company or organization during
school hours. The district designates three allowable treat days per school year. They are noted
on the school calendar each year.
CELLULAR PHONE USE/ELECTRONIC DEVICES AND ACCESSORIES
Cell phones will be confiscated if they are out and/or being used during the school day. A parent
will need to recover the phone from the office, and a $15 dollar fee will be assessed. MP3 players,
along with other electronic devices are not allowed on campus. The school assumes no
responsibility for these devices, as they are not allowed on campus. School personnel will not
investigate loss or theft of such devices.
CHEATING
Cheating, of any kind, will not be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to, sharing and/or
copying work, using computer software to copy or download and/or transfer assignments to
another student, etc. “Loaning” a paper is also considered cheating. A first time offense will
result in a zero for that grade for all students who are involved. A second time offense will result
in a zero for that grade and a “U” in citizenship for that nine-week grading period.
CLOSED CAMPUS
Morehead Middle School is a closed campus. This closed campus policy emphasizes the
protection of the student and thus only allows the release of a student to specifically designated
individuals. Normally only parents or guardians can be designated to pick up students. When
released, students must be checked out through the attendance office.
Students are to remain at school during school hours, including their lunchtime. Students may not
leave the campus at any time. Parents who want to take their children out of school during regular
school hours should report to the attendance office to sign their child out. Any student not returning
to class directly after lunch will be counted absent.
DELIVERY OF STUDENT GIFTS
We cannot accept student gift deliveries of any kind (balloons, baskets, flowers, etc.) In addition,
parents cannot bring food for distribution within the classroom; they can bring food items for
their child only for consumption at suitable times.
DISCIPLINE
Disciplinary Techniques:
The following discipline management techniques may be used—alone or in combination—for
behavior prohibited by the Student Code of Conduct or by campus or classroom rules:
 Verbal correction, oral or written.
 Cooling-off time
 Seating changes within the classroom or vehicles owned or operated by the district.
 Temporary confiscation of items that disrupt the educational process.
 Rewards or demerits.
 Behavioral contracts.
 Counseling by teachers, school counselors, or administrative personnel.
 Parent-teacher conferences.
 Grade reductions for cheating, plagiarism, and as otherwise permitted by policy.
 Detention, including outside regular school hours.
 Sending the student to the office or other assigned area, or to in-school suspension.
 Assignment of school duties such as cleaning or picking up litter.
 Withdrawal of privileges, such as participation in extracurricular activities, eligibility for
seeking and holding honorary offices, or membership in school-sponsored clubs and
organizations.
 Penalties identified in individual student organizations’ extracurricular standards of
behavior.
 Restriction or revocation of district transportation privileges.
 Out-of-school suspension, as specified in the Out-of-School Suspension section of this
Code.
 Placement in a DAEP, as specified in the DAEP section of this Code.
 Placement and/or expulsion to JJAEP in an alternative educational setting, as specified in
the Placement and/or Expulsion to JJAEP for Certain Offenses section of this Code.
 Expulsion to JJAEP, as specified in the Expulsion to JJAEP section of this Code.


Referral to an outside agency or legal authority for criminal prosecution in addition to
disciplinary measures imposed by the district.
Other strategies and consequences as determined by school officials.
Notification
The principal, appropriate administrator, and/or teacher shall notify a student’s parent by phone
or in writing of any violation of the student code of conduct. Notification will be provided
within 24 hours.
Appeals
Questions from parents regarding disciplinary measures should be addressed to the teacher or
campus administration, as appropriate. Appeals or complaints regarding the use of specific
discipline management techniques should be addressed in accordance with policy FNG
(LOCAL). A copy of the policy may be obtained from the principal’s office or the central
administration office or through Policy On Line at the following address: www.episd.org.
Consequences shall not be deferred pending the outcome of a grievance.
Student Code of Conduct
The code of conduct is the mainframe by which the school carries on its day-to-day operations.
Providing well-established guidelines for student conduct is the responsibility of the school. In
addition, since it is this code of conduct by which students learn responsibility and democratic
behavior for their workplace, the regulations that are developed are in the best interest of every
student attending Morehead Middle School.
The code of student conduct reflects standards to help students receive an education in a nonthreatening environment. The code reflects the school's desire to protect each individual's rights
and to deal with violations of safety issues. The best approach for implementing the student code
of conduct is through the rationale that it will provide a more positive school experience for
everyone. Positive management techniques and consistent expectations for student behavior are
always being promoted. Of course, rule clarification is always necessary and will occur as needed.
Students will receive an EPISD Student Code of Conduct and a Student Handbook issued by the
District. Students shall be in strict compliance with the Student Code of Conduct.
Student Rules of Conduct
Students are not to threaten, intimidate, or cause bodily harm to any school employee, volunteer
or student. Fights or inciting a fight will not be tolerated. Students inciting a fight or fighting will
be suspended from school for three days.
Students are not to throw dangerous or inappropriate objects (rocks, books, backpacks, spit wads,
food, drinks, clothing, stink bombs, poppers, fire crackers, pencils, pens, athletic equipment, or
any item that will cause injury or disruption of the school climate).
Students must always have teacher permission to leave class (Pass from Class).
Students should not run in the halls, classroom, breezeways and cafeteria. Students running will
be asked to walk back to their initial place and start again. Noise shall be kept to a minimum.
Students will not use, possess, exhibit or distribute tobacco products, alcohol or drugs on campus
or within 300 feet of the school perimeters. This includes school-sponsored activities on or away
from campus. Students are not to use, possess or exhibit matches, lighters, incinerates, knives of
any size, nuisance items (homemade or commercial sling shots, dart guns, stink/smoke bombs,
itching powder, etc.)
Students must never leave the classroom and/or school grounds without permission.
Students are expected to refrain from using foul language, gestures, name-calling or racial slurs.
Students are not to vandalize, damage, or steal school or private property.
Students are to refrain from inappropriate displays of affection (hand holding, hugging, kissing,
etc.).
Students are expected to attend and be on time to all classes, tutoring, or detention.
Students are not to bring gum or candy to school. Gum chewing is not permitted in school.
Students cannot fund raise for outside organizations on campus.
Students are to do their own work. Cheating will not be tolerated. Cheating will be handled through
the teacher with academic ramifications.
Students are to be in compliance with the Personal Appearance Code.
Disruption of School
A student shall not use violence, force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, passive
resistance, or any other conduct that intentionally/knowingly causes the substantial and material
disruption or obstruction of any lawful mission, process, or function of the school. A student who
fails to comply with directions of teachers, student teachers, substitute teacher, teacher aides,
volunteers, administrators or other adult during any time when he or she is under the authority of
school personnel shall be in violation of school rules and regulations. Students will be subject to
disciplinary action for behaving in a disruptive manner.
Drug and Alcohol Abuse
Across the country, every effort is being sought to combat the conditions of drug and alcohol abuse
that young people now face. Consequently, there has been a national effort to instill prevention
programs within public schools to reduce drug and alcohol abuse problems among young people.
Educators must recognize that, at some point, some young people will experiment with or have
the desire to use or abuse substances. It is critical that prevention programs be established to help
educate teachers, parents, school officials, community leaders, and most of the nation's young
people.
Any student, who sells, possesses, uses, or is under the influence of illicit or counterfeit drugs,
narcotics, or intoxicants or paraphernalia of any kind on school grounds, school buses, or schoolrelated activity away from school, will be disciplined in accordance with the District’s Student
Code of Conduct.
Gang and Gang-related Behavior
Gang-related incidents in the school create an atmosphere of intimidation and harm. The mere
presence of such conditions is disruptive and potentially dangerous. It is, therefore, school policy
that gang and gang-related behavior or incidents are prohibited in the school. Attire that identifies
a student as associated with a gang shall not be permitted. For purposes of this rule, a "gang" means
an organization composed wholly or in part of students of public primary or secondary schools
that seeks to perpetuate itself by taking in additional members from the students enrolled in the
school on the basis of the decision of its membership rather than on the free choice of a student
who is qualified by the rules of the school to fill the special aims of the organization. The term
does not include an agency for public welfare, including Boy Scouts, Hi-Y, Girls Reserves,
DeMolay, Rainbow Girls, Pan-American Clubs, scholarship societies, or other similar educational
organizations sponsored by state or national education authorities (Tex.Ed.Code 37.121). In
determining the identity of gangs and associated attire, the school will consult with local law
enforcement authorities and will update this rule periodically.
Definitions and descriptions of what is prohibited include but are not limited to the following:
• Gang - any assembly of three or more individuals who gather together on a continuing basis,
whose purpose the District reasonably believes is to commit antisocial behavior or to violate
school district policy
• Gang-related behavior or incident - any behavior or event, including but not limited to the
following items, that has the effect of disrupting school activities or that fosters, enhances or
encourages gang activity in the school:
1. Possession, wearing, using, distribution or display of any sign, symbol, badge, color or other
item that is evidence of affiliation with or membership in a gang; for example, wearing pants below
the waistline (sagging and dragging) or wearing caps, bandannas, handkerchiefs, or any other item
associated with gangs that may indicate an affiliation with or membership in a gang behavior
2. Participation in any acts, either verbal or nonverbal-including gestures, expressions, handshakes,
and so forth
3. Participation in any act that may further the interest in gang affiliation or gang membership
4. Participation in any act that may be evidence of intimidation, threats, "pay for protection", or
any other behavior of potential violence
5. Participation in the writing, painting or inscribing of gang-related graffiti-including messages,
symbols, or signs-on school or personal property
6. Assembling or congregating as a gang or members of a gang for any purpose
Profanity/Obscenity/Pornography
The use of obscene language constitutes a serious offense and is in direct violation of school policy.
A student who engages in such acts will receive severe discipline that could result in in-school
suspension, suspension from school or recommendation to the Alternative Education Program.
Pornography in any form is unacceptable. Students found to be in possession of pornography or
pornographic materials will be subject to in-school suspension, suspension from school or
recommendation to the Alternative Education Program. Parents and police services will be
contacted.
Repeated Misconduct
Severe misconduct or repeated misconduct at school or school activities, when going to and from
school will result in more severe consequence. Parental support for school-assigned consequences
is extremely important in the process of modifying student behavior. A student failing to serve any
assigned consequence due to any reason will receive additional consequences until the original
consequence is served.
Tobacco
The use and/or possession of tobacco or any tobacco product by students is against the law in
Texas, and any student who violates this law is subject to disciplinary action. The law applies to
anyone under the age of 18. Disciplinary action will be taken in accordance with the District’s
Student Code of Conduct.
Threats
All threats (verbal, written, and non-verbal) are considered to be serious and will be dealt with on
a student disciplinary action form.
Weapons/Dangerous Instruments/Fireworks/Explosives Bombs
A student shall not possess, hold, or transmit any object that can be considered a weapon. For the
purposes of this policy, the term dangerous weapon shall mean pistol/gun, revolver, starter pistols,
cap guns, bombs, bullets, ammunition, knife of any size, sharpened metal file, metal comb of any
length with pointed and sharpened handle, billy club, loaded cane, metal knuckles, razors, hand
chain, laser pointer, itching powder, stink bombs, fireworks, explosives, gunpowder, flammable
substances, or incendiary devices, or other offensive or noxious instrument or substance. All
dangerous instruments or substances are prohibited within school property; grounds, bus or school
sponsored activity away from school. Each incident involving a weapon will result in disciplinary
action and possible prosecution under applicable ordinances and statutes. Students who use or
possess any dangerous or annoying device or item that could be used as a weapon for assault during
school time, on school premises, on school buses or during school-sponsored activities will be
subject to expulsion for one calendar year. All reported cases of possession of a weapon will be
turned over to the police for prosecution.
Vandalism and Property Damage
Students who destroy or vandalize school property will be required to pay for losses or damages.
A student who knowingly and willfully destroys school property will be suspended from school
with a possible recommendation to the Alternative Education setting. If a student damages school
property by accident, he or she should report it to a teacher or to the office immediately.
Consequences for Violations of school rules:
Students who have violated the Student Code of Conduct will be subject to disciplinary action
that is appropriate for the particular offense. Efforts will be made to communicate with parents to
help prevent further misconduct by students. Each time students commit an offense against
established rules; they will proceed through the EPISD Due Process.
Parent Contact Options
1. Written communication (it is the student's responsibility to convey to their parents the
information on the disciplinary action taken) pink copy of Student Discipline Action Form.
2. Telephone calls
3. Letter mailed
4. Conference requested by staff
Disciplinary Explanations:
•Detention - A student may be required to serve detention before/after school or during lunch.
The teacher and/or administrator determines the amount of time. Possible reasons for detention
may be: tardiness, disruption in class, halls, cafeteria, or other violations to the student code of
conduct. It is the responsibility of the student to inform the parent of the detention time and date.
Any student who is assigned afterschool detention will have a twenty-four hour notice.
•In School Suspension (ISS) – This refers to a separate designated classroom in which the
student is placed to complete his/her regular class assignments and any additional assignment
given by the ISS teacher. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure that all regular class
assignments are completed. An administrator may place a student in the ISS classroom for a
limited period of time for: persistent misbehavior, no-show for detention, disruption in/out of
class, insubordination, rude/disrespectful behavior or not following the district/school code of
conduct. In-school suspension may limit field trips or any other privileges. If a student is
assigned to be in ISS on a non-uniform day, he/she MUST wear the school uniform.
•Out of School Suspension (OSS) - A student may be suspended from school for violations of
the student code of conduct.
•Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) - This is a self-contained classroom in
which the student is placed for a minimum of 45 days. The dress code guidelines: navy or khaki
pants, a white, long or short sleeved, button-up/collared dress shirt and tie. DAEP students are
not allowed to wear make-up or jewelry. NO club/athletic/etc. shirts are allowed while in DAEP.
The student will receive a new schedule and will receive direct instruction from a certified
teacher. DAEP students are not allowed to attend any school or school-sponsored activities.
DAEP students are not to be on any EPISD school campus except when arriving and departing
school and for attendance purposes only. Placement in DAEP results from a student not
following the District/School Code of Conduct. At no time during DAEP placement are students
to be out of uniform. Parents of DAEP students are responsible for transportation to and from
school based on the DAEP school hours.
•La Farelle Alternative School- EPISD’s off-campus Discipline Alternative Education
Program.
DONATIONS
All donations given to the school or students must be processed through Principal’s
Secretary before it can be accepted. This includes coupons, cash, and/or equipment, etc.
DRESS CODE
A uniform is required at Morehead Middle School. Together, the faculty, staff, and
administration at Morehead Middle School work to provide students with a quality education in a
safe and orderly environment. A uniform is established to teach grooming, hygiene, discipline,
and avoid safety hazards to students or others.
DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS:
 Khaki or dark blue pants (absolutely no denim), skorts, shorts or crop/capri pants must be
worn at the waistline.
 Solid red, white, or black polo shirts with collar. (If polo has a chest emblem, it cannot be
larger than the size of a half dollar coin.) Polo shirts cannot have more than three
buttons. Polo shirts must be tucked into uniform bottoms at all times.
 Solid black or brown belts only. Belts must be tucked all the way into belt loops.
 Skorts and shorts must be at least as long as the fingertips with hands at the sides.
 Any under shirt, turtleneck, or camisole must be white in color or match the polo in
color.
 Official Morehead Middle School spirit can only be worn on Fridays as part of the school
uniform.
SUMMARY:
 Every day of the week: white, black, or red polo shirts and uniform bottoms
unless otherwise announced by administration.
 Thursday: College Day. Students can wear a shirt of their favorite college with
uniform bottoms. If a student does not have a college shirt, he/she must wear
uniform polo with uniform bottoms.
 Fridays: Any official Morehead Middle School spirit shirt with uniform
bottoms. If a student does not have a spirit shirt, uniform polo with uniform
bottoms must be worn.
 Jean days will be determined by administration. On jean days, jeans may be blue
or black only and must not have holes or rips. Jean shorts will be allowed as long
as shorts are fingertip length and not excessively baggy. Jean capri pants will be
allowed.
 All sandals such as thongs, flip-flops, slippers, etc. are considered dangerous and
undesirable foot protection and cannot be worn to school. Dress shoes with heels,
platform tennis shoes, and roller skates tennis shoes are not appropriate and can
cause injury.
OUTERWEAR:
 Outerwear includes, but not limited to, sweatshirts, sweaters, hoodies, windbreakers, pull-overs, fleece garments, etc. They have to be solid in color and only
red, white and black colors will be allowed.
 Outerwear must be unzipped, unbuttoned, or removed upon entering the building
to ensure proper uniform compliance.
 Official Morehead Middle School hoodies do not need to be removed.
 Hoodies, jackets, sweaters, etc. not affiliated with Morehead Middle School must
be removed upon entering the building or left in the locker.
PROHIBITED ITEMS and ATTIRE:
 Multi-colored/striped long leg socks.
 Button-down shirts.
 Skirts, jeggings, or leggings.
 House slippers and pajamas.
 Tote bags used as purses.
 Long key chains, chains on pants, and wallet chains of any length.
 Studded, spiked, or colored belts are not allowed. Black or brown belts only.
 Belts with “initial” buckle.
 Items associated with satanic message, obscene language, racial slur, hate
message, derogatory message, gang membership, alcohol advertisement, or drug
advertisement.
 Hats, jacket hoods, ball caps, or beanies in the building.
 Facial/body piercings, gauges, plugs, or lobe spacers.
 Writing on hands, arms, etc.
 Unnatural hair color (blue, green, pink, etc.) and/or styles (i.e. mohawks, spikes,
or shaved designs of any kind.)
 Shaved eyebrows.
 Flip-flops or open style shoes (shower/beach shoes).
Anything deemed inappropriate by administration will result in a violation of the dress code
policy. Administration reserves the right to amend or make changes to the existing uniform
policy deemed as necessary throughout the school year.
Physical Education Uniform:
 Students must wear a white, gray t-shirt, or Spirit Shirts and black shorts. Black
or Grey sweats with P.E. shirt may be worn for the winter season.
Back Packs:
 Must be solid in color fabric and must be of normal size. Over-sized or
hiking/camping style backpack will not be allowed.
 Absolutely no writing will be allowed on the backpack.
Confiscated Items Violating Dress Code:
It is the responsibility of the student / parent to collect confiscated items in a timely
manner. Confiscated items will be held by the administrator who confiscated the item. All
confiscated items will be donated to charitable associations at the end of the school year.
Unacceptable Clothing and Dress Items:
•body piercings (exception: ears for females/no earrings allowed for males)
•large earrings pose a safety hazard—may be asked to be removed
•hair with unnatural color or color combinations administration will decide
•clothing with profanity, suggestive, sexually explicit pictures, phrases or implications
•identifications of gang-alterations to eyebrows, visible tattoos, piercing, or
clothing/dress/accessory items affiliated with gangs to include weapons and alcohol/drugs
•sunglasses worn inside of the building
•distracting haircuts-administration will decide
•patches on clothing
•flip flops or any other type of backless shoe
•baggy shorts and pants falling below the waist line and large pocketed shorts and pants
•bottoms with frayed bottoms and/or holes
•clothes, accessories, shoes, books etc. that have satanic, occult, or grotesque pictures, drawings
and or words
•pajama wear, slippers
•low cut shirts or blouses, see through shirts of any kind, short tops showing stomach
•shorts/skirts that are above the knee
•bandanas, hairnets, athletic headbands, hats
FERPA (Family Education Rights and Privacy Act):
This federal law was established to protect student education records. Each school year, parents
are given the opportunity to place their child’s name on the FERPA list. If a student’s name is on
the FERPA list, teachers must ask for parent approval before giving the student any type of
recognition. This is to include student name/picture/school work, etc. Due to FERPA, Morehead
faculty and staff are not to discuss disciplinary consequences of students with anyone other than
the staff, student and parent involved.
FIGHTING
Fighting will not be tolerated at Morehead Middle School. Students will keep hands and feet to
themselves at all times. Any violation of this policy will result in DAEP placement.
FUND RAISING PROJECTS
Fund raising projects are undertaken to purchase student incentives. Participation is optional.
Students participating will be responsible for all goods and money. Prizes may be given to the top
fundraisers. Students are not permitted to sell items of any kind in the school building without
permission from the principal. Items will be confiscated and appropriate disciplinary action will
be taken.
GRADES
Expect progress reports during the fourth week of each grading period and report cards after each
nine week period. Parents are encouraged to use the Parent Portal System or call the office and
make an appointment to see their child's teachers if their child's grades are below expectations or
if they have a "U" in Conduct.
To facilitate home and school communication, the school has a procedure parents can use to check
their child's grades. A parent may obtain their child’s grades via the Parent Portal system and/or
setting up a conference with the teacher. If the grade check or Progress Report reveals any problem
in a subject area, the parent should contact the student's teacher(s) immediately to schedule a
conference.
GUM
Gum is not allowed on campus. A teacher will issue a “U” in Conduct on the 3rd violation, per
grading period.
GUNS OR TOY LOOK ALIKE GUNS
These items are not allowed on campus.
K-9 UNIT
Unannounced visits from the district’s K-9 Unit will be conducted. The visitation of the dogs
does not necessarily mean that Morehead has drugs on campus. Morehead uses it for
preventative measures.
LATE WORK POLICY
Teachers (except for teachers who teach high school credit classes) will allow ONE day for late
work that must be turned in within the same week.
LIBRARY
Library hours are 7:15-3:35 PM. Teachers will use a library pass when sending a student during
school hours. Students without a pass will be sent back to class and no more than two students
per class can be sent at one time.
LOCKERS
Students will be assigned a locker in one of the main hallways. The only times students are
permitted to use their lockers are before school, before and after lunch, and after school. Students
are absolutely not allowed to use their lockers during class time. Students are not to share
lockers or give their combinations out to other students. Lockers are the property of Morehead
Middle School and are subject to inspection at any time. Students should have a second lock
available for the PE lockers. It is recommended that all students lock their valuables in their
regular locker in the morning or in a PE locker during PE class. Items stolen from backpacks left
on the locker room floor are not the responsibility of the school.
MAKE UP WORK
Students have one school day to make up work for each day they have an excused absence (a
student who was absent three days would have three school days, including the first day back at
school, to complete all missed assignments). It is the student's responsibility, to obtain makeup
work. The Principal will address prearranged absences on a case by case basis.
NURSE INFORMATION
•Asthma inhaler-If inhaler is to be carried at school, the nurse needs doctor’s orders specifically
stating, “student can carry an inhaler while at school.” Doctor’s orders need
to be renewed EVERY school year.
•Medication-A doctor’s written order is required each time dosage is adjusted. If you wish
teachers to be aware that your child is on medication please notify them the first week of school.
Doctor’s orders need to be renewed at the beginning of each school year; medication is only to
be administered in the nurses’ office.
•Emergency cards-The emergency cards are of vital importance. Please be sure to provide name
of hospital and all emergency contact numbers and sign card. The nurse needs these cards in her
office as soon as possible.
•Illness at school-If a student is injured or becomes ill while at school, he/she should report to
the nurse's office for treatment. The nurse will contact the child's parents if he/she needs to go
home or receive further medical attention. Students should not call, text parents directly, or leave
campus without checking out through the nurse and the attendance office. Any student who
leaves campus without checking out through the nurse and attendance office will be marked
truant for the remainder of the day.
•Medications at school-All medication, (including over the counter, for example, Tylenol,
aspirin, etc.) given by the school nurse will require both a written order from a physician licensed
to practice in Texas and a signed permission form by the parent.
Medications from Mexico cannot be administered. Doctor’s written orders must include
student’s name, physician’s name, current prescription date, amount of drug to be given,
frequency of administration and type of administration. Medications brought to the nurse’s office
must be in the original container. All over-the-counter medications need to be in an unopened
sealed container. Please check the expiration dates to ensure medication has not expired. The
only medications that can be carried at school with written orders from parents/physicians are
inhalers, Epi Pens and insulin. Students cannot carry medications or self-administer medications
on campus unless it is one of the above medications authorized by Texas codes. All medication
orders must be reviewed yearly.
If a medication is to be discontinued, a written request from the physician/parent to discontinue
the medication is required. All medication that is discontinued needs to be picked up by the
parent within one week or it will be destroyed.
•PE restrictions-Any long-term physical education (PE) restrictions require a written order by a
Texas licensed doctor that states the length/type of restrictions. A parent can excuse their child
from PE for up to 3 days without a doctor’s note. Phone calls requesting a child be excused
cannot be accepted.
•Preferential seating-If preferential seating is needed due to vision/hearing impairments; notify
nurse and teachers on the first day of school.
•Special Needs/Orders-If your child has any specific medical condition, please contact the nurse
for specific care needed.
•Student Screening-As per state law, all students will be screened for vision/hearing.
•Vaccines- All immunizations should be completed by the first date of attendance. The law
requires that students be fully vaccinated against the specific diseases.
PARENT PORTAL
The portal provides parents with online access to information on their EPISD-enrolled child.
Parents are able to view their child’s attendance, classroom assignments, and grades, and contact
teachers directly by e-mail. The parent portal provides specific information on student
assignments, class participation, quizzes, tests, and overall academic progress. Parents who are
informed about the academic activities of their child, are able to be more involved as a result.
The portal also facilitates better communication with teachers, and could change the frequency
and dynamics of parent – teacher conferences over time. Teacher e-mail addresses are provided
within the portal and parents are encouraged to use this communication tool (maintaining a
professional level of dialogue.) If a parent is not familiar with the portal, a staff member working
in the front office can assist.
PARKING LOT
Please do not drop off your child in the parking lot. Drive all the way to the end of the drop off
lane, located closest to the building. This allows for several cars to drop off at one time, helps
keep the traffic flowing, and more importantly, it helps protect your child.
PHONE MESSAGES
Only emergency messages will be delivered.
POSSESSION OF INAPPROPRIATE MATERIAL
Students are not to take responsibility for holding anything for anybody.
PRINTED MATERIALS
All printed materials, signs, or posters not sponsored by the school must have clearance through the
principal's office. All unauthorized materials will be subject to confiscation and disciplinary action.
RECORD REQUEST
A 24-hour notification is required in order to release any records. If student information needs to
be changed, please contact the registrar and make those changes in person. No exceptions.
RESPECT
We require students to be respectful to one another and to adults. Profane and inappropriate
language will not be tolerated, and consequences will be applied.
SCHOOL CANCELLATION
In the event of severely inclement weather or mechanical breakdowns, school may be closed or
starting times delayed. The same conditions may also necessitate early dismissal from school. The
school will be guided by the decisions of the Superintendent. When possible, a decision will be
made by 6:00 a.m. to keep schools open, delay the opening, or close schools when there is a district
wide emergency such as bad weather making travel to and from school hazardous for students,
parents, and staff. Parents should listen to the news media for information as to a delayed opening
of school. A delayed opening will be announced through the news media. A delayed opening will
set all reporting times, bus schedules, etc., back one and one-half hours. If no report is heard, it
can be assumed that school will be held on the regular schedule. Once opened, schools are not to
be closed unless the principal receives a directive from his/her Region Associate Superintendent,
his/her designee, or from the Office of the Superintendent, or his/her designee. In order to make
up any lost instructional days, an extension of instructional days may be used in order to meet the
maximum number of days of instruction as required by Texas Education Agency.
SCHOOL DANCES
For student safety, pick up your children on time to ensure that he/she is supervised. Only
Morehead students may attend dances. ID may be required. All attire must follow school policies
on dress code guidelines. Any student involved in dangerous or unacceptable dancing or
disruptive activity will be removed from the dance, parents will be contacted to immediately pick
up their child, and disciplinary action may be taken. At any time, a student may have dance
privileges revoked as a form of disciplinary action.
SECURITY
For security reasons, students will be issued a Morehead student ID card. THE ID CARD MUST
BE CARRIED BY THE STUDENT AT ALL TIMES. Students will be charged a fee for lost
cards.
TELEPHONES
The office telephone is for business and emergency calls. Students may use the school office phone
for emergency calls after obtaining permission from the office personnel. Students are not expected
to have frequent emergencies. Routine arrangements for transportation should be made ahead of
time. Do not rely on using the school phone for making plans, which can be arranged before you
leave home. Messages from parents/guardians will be forwarded to students.
TEXTBOOKS
All textbooks are loaned to students for their use during the school year. Books for each class are
generally issued to students the first week of school, and are expected to be returned at the end of
the year, in reasonably good condition. Students are expected to keep their books covered at all
times and to handle them with proper care. This includes not writing in the books or defacing
them in any way. Although textbooks are provided to school districts free of charge, the district
must pay for all books, which have to be replaced. Therefore, the student to whom they were
issued must pay for books that are lost or damaged. Also, fines will be assessed to students
whose books have been damaged but can still be used. Students are not to share books or loan
them to other students, as this often results in problems when one student loses or damages a
book which belongs to another student. In such cases, the financial responsibility lies with the
student who was issued the book, even if another student was using it. It is imperative that each
student keep possession of his/her books at all times. This includes while they are in the physical
education locker rooms and during lunch periods. Parents, we encourage you to talk to your child
about being responsible for their books.
TRANSFER STUDENTS
If there are any problems with discipline, attendance, or low grades due to lack of effort,
TRANSFER PERMISSION MAY BE REVOKED.
TRANSFER/WITHDRAWAL OF A STUDENT
•Registrar will fill out the withdrawal and transfer paperwork and follow protocol.
•Student will need to clear with nurse, lunchroom clerk, and librarian.
•Registrar will have the campus patrol take the form to teachers. Teachers will fill in grades and
sign as indicated on form.
•The student should be advised that all books will be taken to the bookroom the last period of the
day to be cleared.
•The form needs to be returned to the registrar by the end of the day.
24-hour notice is needed to clear a student. The student must attend school until he/she has been
properly cleared and only legal guardians are allowed to withdraw a student.
UNACCEPTABLE ITEMS
•gum
•alcohol, drugs, tobacco products, tobacco/drug paraphernalia
•knives, guns, clubs, brass knuckles, sharp or pointed items or anything that could be used as a
weapon (or any object that looks like the mentioned items)
•chains (even those on wallets)
•matches, lighters, fireworks, explosives, stink bombs, poppers or any kind of combustible
material- possession of these items may result in the involvement of the El
Paso Fire Marshall and/or El Paso Fire Department and Police Department
•permanent markers, spray cans, hair spray, shaving cream, water guns, spraying bottles, whiteout, glue, etc. silly string or any similar related items
•skateboards, mobile boards, roller skates, roller blades, skate shoes, etc.
•any electronic devices, games, phones, etc. will be taken away if used in the building (unless it
is for class)
•laser pointers
•recording devices
•collector items of any kind
VISITORS
Parents/Guardians are always welcome to visit. Please check in the Main Office for a visitor's pass.
Student visitors will not be allowed on campus or in the classroom during class time. People
without legitimate business or those who do not check in the main office will be accompanied off
campus and police will be called. Teachers will not accept visitors without a visitor's pass issued
from the main office.
WITHDRAWALS
A 24-hour notice is required prior to the student's last day of school in order to process data
required for withdrawal, clear the student's books and get grades in progress from all teachers. A
PARENT MUST COME IN AND SIGN THE WITHDRAWAL FORM. On the student's last
day, he/she must report to the registrar to turn in all books and clear with all appropriate staff.
Any fines or lost books MUST be paid for at the time of withdrawal.
Students are responsible for all books issued and library books checked out.
August 2014
Dear Parents/Students:
The El Paso Independent School District and this campus, as part of its compliance with laws
and procedures as enforced by the Office for Civil Rights and Texas Education Agency (TEA)
requirements, has provided for employees’, students’, applicants’, or parents’ procedures that
preserve the rights and responsibilities of those individuals regarding nondiscrimination,
harassment, and grievances. These policies and procedures are available to you on the EPISD
Web site, or by visiting the campus administrative office. For your convenience, the following
summarizes the basic information:
Nondiscrimination
The El Paso Independent School District does not discriminate in its educational programs or
employment practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability,
military status, or on any other basis prohibited by law. Inquiries concerning the application of
Titles VI, VII, IX, and Section 504 may be referred to the District compliance officer, Vince
Sheffield at 230-2031; Section 504 inquiries regarding students may be referred to Cecilia
Whiteman at 881-2527.
Harassment
Procedures are outlined in District policies DHB, DH, DIA, FFH, FNCJ, FNCL. District
administrators are required to adhere to the requirements as outlined in the aforementioned
policies in order to provide a timely, thorough, and complete resolution of incidents involving
harassment as identified by policy.
Grievance
Procedures are outlined in District policies DGBA, FNG, and GF and have been codified for the
convenience of employees, students, applicants and parents. District administrators are required
to adhere to the requirements as outlined in the aforementioned policies in order to provide a
timely, thorough, and complete resolution of concerns, complaints, and grievances identified by
policy. The El Paso Independent School District, and Morehead Middle School, complies with
accessibility laws as enforced by the Office of Civil Rights and the Texas Education Agency
(TEA) requirements. We have provided for employees, students, applicants or parents,
procedures that preserve the rights and responsibilities of those individuals regarding
accessibility to curriculum, programs and services. These policies and procedures are available to
you on the EPISD website, or by visiting the campus administrative office. For your
convenience, the following summarizes the accessibility information.
Accessibility:
Your child’s campus has a written accessibility plan and identified pathway of accessibility to
ensure that students, parents and employees with disabilities have access to and an opportunity to
participate in the general education curriculum, including the school’s programs and services.
Procedures are outlined in the district bulletins. The written accessibility plan and accessible
pathway is provided to affected parents and students at the beginning of each year with
enrollment materials. Please call the school if you have any questions.
Armando Gallegos
Principal
915-231-2140