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Blatchley
Student Handbook
The mission of BMS is to foster each student’s academic, social, and emotional growth.
Beliefs:
Strategies:
Strategy 1 – High Student Achievement
Strategy 2 – Increase Community and Family Involvement
Strategy 3 – Safe and Welcome Environments (Student Connectedness)
Bullying Prevention
The Sitka School District has made a commitment to working towards eliminating bullying in its schools. As part of this effort, the district has adopted the Olweus Bullying Prevention Program.
Blatchley staff and students will spend time throughout the school year working to create and environment where all students feel safe and ready to learn. The following anti-bullying rules have been adopted by the Blatchley Middle School:
1. We will not bully others.
2. We will help students who are bullied
3. We will include students being left out.
4. If we know that someone is being bullied, we will tell an adult at school and an adult at home.
Positive Behavior Support (PBS)
At Blatchley Middle School our staff is working towards encouraging positive behaviors; specifically under the categories of Respectful, Responsible and Safe. In implementing a Positive Behavior Support System, the following encouraged behaviors are defined throughout Blatchley.
SCHOOL DAY
The Blatchley Middle School day will begin at 8:30 a.m. and will dismiss at 3:20 p.m. Monday-Thursday and begins at 8:30 a.m. and dismisses at 2:15 p.m. on Fridays. During the day, you are expected to be prompt to your classes, be prepared to learn, and demonstrate a positive, cooperative attitude. If, for any reason, you arrive late to school or must leave early from school, you must report to the office for a pass to class or permission to leave school and be signed in / out by parent / guardian.
EXCUSED ABSENCES
The following absences will be excused, providing the excuse has been provided by the parent/guardian in advance of the absence or at the time of personal illness:
• Personal illness.
• Family death or emergency.
• Medical appointments, which MUST be made during school time.
• Family trips and other extended absences should be made known to the principal well in advance and arrangements made with each teacher involved for the make-up work to be missed. Homework sheets can be picked up at the front office.
• School initiated absence (no parent excuse required).
Parents are to notify the school office at 747-8672 of a student's absence on the morning of that absence. When calling, state who’s calling, the student's name, and reason for absence. If notification is not made by 9:30am and 1:30pm Phone Master will contact parents at home or at work.
Following an excused absence, the student will be responsible for completing make-up work. Information regarding missed work due to the absence can be obtained by contacting the teacher directly. Teacher contact information is available on the Blatchley web site at http:sitkaschool.org/bms
NOTE: The principal may verify any absence if there is good cause to do so. Excessive absences due to illness will need to be verified by Doctor's excuse.
UNEXCUSED ABSENCES
The following absences will be treated as unexcused and are not all-inclusive:
• Any absence not properly excused before the occurrence or at the time in the case of personal illness.
• Leaving the building or school grounds during the day without parental excuse and authorization from the office.
• Work for parents or an employer (Example: Babysitting)
• Haircuts, oversleeping, or other equally absurd reasons.
As defined under the State Compulsory Attendance Law, each five days of unlawful absence constitutes a separate violation of the Law.
EXCESSIVE ABSENCES
• All absences are documented daily by staff and verified by the parent through phone call or note.
• After 2 cumulative days of unexcused absences, there will be a phone call home followed by a letter describing the attendance concern along with a copy of the Compulsory Attendance Law. Copy of the letter is sent to the Superintendent.
• After 8 per semester or 12 per year cumulative days of unexcused absences, there will be a meeting held with the school Intervention Team. A second letter documenting the results from that meeting and the strategies to be used in improving student attendance will be sent to the parents.
• After 10 per semester or 15 per year cumulative days of unexcused absences, the matter will be referred to the Superintendent. All documentation concerning the attendance issue will be referred as well. The Superintendent sends a letter to the parents with a copy of the Compulsory Attendance Law.
• After 12 per semester or 18 per year cumulative days of unexcused absences, the matter will be referred to the Superintendent as well as to the Police Department regarding truancy. All documentation will follow.
• If non-attendance continues to persist, the student may be served through the home schooling program. The student may also be retained at grade level.
TARDINESS
Excuses such as car trouble, missing a ride, oversleeping, etc. will not be accepted.
2 or more tardies to school / class could result in any of the following consequences:
• Lunch Detention or even ISS for habitual cases where detention does not seem to work
• Phone call to parents
• Conference with parent at school
• School privileges taken away
• Referral to the Superintendent and School Board
A student who is tardy to class other periods of the day should expect to be disciplined by the class teacher. However, teachers may request assistance from the administration.
TRUANCY
Any student who willfully fails to attend school will be considered truant. If a student is found to be skipping school, parents will be notified of the infraction and of the resulting consequence.
Students are not permitted to leave the school grounds at any time during the school day without an excuse from the office. If you must leave the building because of illness or an emergency, it will be necessary for you to be released by the office. If you plan to leave the building during the day for an appointment or other reasons, a parent/guardian must sign you out at the front office or call or send a note to the front office.
When leaving school during regular school hours STUDENTS MUST CHECK OUT WITH THE OFFICE. Students must CHECK IN upon returning to school.
CLOSED CAMPUS POLICY
Students are NOT permitted to leave campus without explicit permission. Students are not permitted to visit grocery stores, etc. unless they have written permission from their parent/guardians. Students are considered to be on campus upon arrival on school property. During off-campus activities all students are required to stay with their assigned groups and to remain within sight of their teachers and/or adult chaperones at all times as far as it is possible to do so. Students must eat lunch on campus unless picked up by parents or guardians to eat off campus. Parents are required to inform the office in these cases. A student who returns late from lunch will be considered tardy and dealt with according to our tardy policy.
BEHAVIOR AND CONSEQUENCES
NOTICE: SCHOOL RULES APPLY GOING TO AND FROM SCHOOL, AT SCHOOL BUS STOPS, ON SCHOOL BUSES, ON ALL SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPERTY, AND AT ALL SCHOOL AND SCHOOL DISTRICT RELATED ACTIVITIES DURING REGULAR SCHOOL HOURS AND OUTSIDE OF REGULAR SCHOOL HOURS WHETHER ON OR OFF CAMPUS.
DISCIPLINE
Individual teachers will explain their classroom rules and procedures, but the following rules apply in all cases at the Blatchley Middle School.
* Show respect for rights and property of others.
* Keep your hands and feet to yourself.
* Come to class prepared and ready to work.
* Show school pride by keeping the school clean.
* Follow the lawful directions of school personnel: administrators, teachers, teacher aides, bus drivers, office staff, and custodians.
* NO Public Displays of Affection (PDA) including holding hands, kissing, caressing, etc.
* NO gum chewing in halls or in classes.
HANDS-OFF POLICY: All physical contact of any kind is prohibited. Excessively rough play or “play” fighting is also prohibited under this policy. Likewise, kissing and other undue intimate touching and/or public displays of affection are inappropriate in a school setting and will also be treated as violations of this policy. “Unwelcome physical contact” is defined as contact, which is either unwelcome by those receiving the contact, or physical contact, which is not welcome on our campus by the administration. Students who are found to have violated the hands-off policy can expect to be disciplined. Repeated violations will result in increasingly harsher consequences.
DISCIPLINE OPTIONS
Teacher Intervention. (Student and teacher identify the problem and resolve the problem mutually). Teachers generally try to work with students for minor classroom infractions. This may be an on-the-spot reminder or talking to the student. It may be temporary isolation nearby until the teacher has time to confer with the student. It may involve detention or some other consequence of which the student is already aware. The student, with the teacher's guidance, will be given a chance to work out the difficulty (for most minor infractions). The student's parents may be notified of the inappropriate behavior.
Guidance Intervention. The student and counselor may meet to seek a resolution. Teachers may refer students to the guidance office. The guidance counselor will discuss the referral with the student and work towards a resolution. The student's parents may be notified of the situation.
Office Intervention. The office will become involved in the process when a student's behavior has reached a troublesome degree. Such unacceptable behaviors may include, but are not limited to fighting, insubordination, vandalism, stealing, class disruptions, or threats of any kind. The behavior will generally be handled through the Blatchley Middle School Disciplinary Grid. This discipline grid outlines consequences for a variety of infractions. These consequences mirror State Law, Board Policy, P.A.C. and administrative recommendations. The BMS Disciplinary Grid is not all-inclusive and consequences may be altered because of circumstances.
Detention: Detention may be assigned by individual teachers and/or office staff for a variety of infractions. Time served for detentions may occur before school, after school or during the lunch period. Students are required to do homework and/or read a book during detention time. Students may also be asked to help with a service and/or clean-up project. Detention is given in an effort to avoid suspension. Students who skip detention will be considered defiant. Parents will be notified 24 hours in advance of after-school detention. Students are responsible for informing their parents about detention. Generally, students are given a second chance to attend a missed detention time. After missing an assigned detention time twice, students will be required to serve an in-school suspension. If the problem persists, students will be suspended out-of-school for each incident of missed detention
In-School Suspension: ISS is an option for misbehavior. The student attends school and is excluded from participating in the normal school day. Parents are generally notified by phone when their student is assigned to ISS. Student(s) will be actively engaged while on ISS (doing homework, reading, etc.). Failure to do so will result in parents being called and the student sent home.
Out of School Suspension: OSS Some violations may require an out-of-school suspension for up to ten days. Parents are generally notified by phone, then a follow up letter. Expulsion is reserved for severe cases. Students are responsible for completing work missed and will earn credit. Parents may make arrangements to pick up the class assignments. Students who are suspended out-of-school are not allowed on any school district property or at school district events during the duration of their suspension. If students choose to violate this policy, the police will be notified and students may be charged with trespassing. Likewise, coming onto campus during a suspension could result in an extension of the suspension and/or an additional suspension in the future.
SEARCHES AND SEIZURES
School officials have the legal right to search students and their possessions whenever there is reasonable suspicion of theft, drug possession, weapon possession, safety concerns, or similar violations. Students are required to cooperate with these lawful searches. Any student who refuses to comply or cooperate with a search will be considered extremely defiant (i.e., special case) and suspended out-of-school from one to five full school days at the principal’s discretion. The police will also be notified in such cases.
PARENT NOTIFICATION
Parents will be contacted concerning major disciplinary matters as expediently as possible. We require students and parents to keep current address and phone numbers on file at the school. Parents will be notified either by telephone, mail, or in some minor cases through notes carried by a student. Parents are generally not informed about trivial disciplinary matters.
POLICE CONTACT
Students who violate state or local laws will be referred directly to the local police.
RIGHT TO APPEAL
The student will be given the opportunity to appeal any action. Generally, appeals are handled as follows.
• Staff member/administrator and student will attempt to resolve the problem.
• If a student is not satisfied with the outcome at this level, he/she may appeal to the vice-principal or the principal.
• The student's parent/guardian may be consulted as a resolution is sought.
• If a satisfactory resolution for both parties is not established, the student may then appeal to the superintendent.
COMMITMENT TO SCHOOL SAFETY
In a continuing effort to reduce school violence, BMS students and their parents will be asked to read and sign a commitment to school safety pledge. Likewise, students will be taught various lessons concerning school and personal safety by their classroom instructors at BMS. Our commitment to school safety is on-going and through a heightened awareness concerning safety we hope to make BMS a safe haven for all students.
GUIDANCE SERVICES
Our guidance counselor may help students work through personal problems and school concerns. Guidance services provided by the counselor include classroom guidance, small group, and individual counseling. Students may ask a teacher for permission to see the counselor or they may stop by the guidance office between classes. There may be times when teachers, parents, or the counselor may ask that students visit the guidance office. Students may be required to seek counseling from outside the school for behavior problems or drug involvement.
DRUG FREE SCHOOL ZONES
Alaska State Law AS 14.07.181 makes the entire school campus a drug free zone. Anyone who possesses or sells controlled substances in a drug free zone will face severe legal penalties.
The following areas are part of the school campus and considered a drug free zone at all times:
the covered play area, ball field, the sidewalk along HPR , all "pit" and grassy areas up to Osprey Street, the community garden and back parking lot.
Students possessing alcohol and/or drugs at school will face suspension and police intervention. A second offense will result in the student being recommended for expulsion. Any student distributing or selling alcohol and/or drugs on school grounds will be recommended for expulsion.
HARRASSMENT/BULLYING
Harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age or marital status includes conduct of a verbal or physical nature that is designed to embarrass, distress, agitate, disturb, or trouble persons when such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a student's performance or creating an intimidating or hostile working or learning environment. Harassment based upon factors other than sex includes, but is not limited to,
· verbal, physical, or written harassment or abuse,
· repeated remarks of a demeaning nature,
· implied or explicit threats concerning one's grades, job, etc, and
· demeaning jokes, stories or activities.
Sexual harassment may include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and/or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to,
· verbal, physical or written harassment or abuse,
· pressure for sexual activity,
· repeated remarks to a person with sexual or demeaning implications,
· suggesting or demanding sexual involvement accompanied by implied or explicit threats.
Bullying is the repeated intimidation of others by inflicting or threatening physical, verbal, written, electronic, or emotional abuse, or damage to another’s property. It also involves an imbalance of power or strength.
Bullying may include, but is not limited to,
· conduct such as physical abuse,
· damage or theft of another’s property,
· social exclusion from activities,
· verbal taunts, name-calling, rumors, innuendoes,
· drawings, jokes, gestures, pranks, and
· put-downs relating to real or perceived differences, including another’s culture, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, body size, physical appearance, clothing, personality, age, socioeconomic status, ability or disability, or other distinguishing characteristics.
· Inappropriate use of technology (phones, i-pads, computers etc...)
Harassment and Bullying are violations of school district policies and regulations. They may also be violations of criminal or other laws. The school district has the authority to report student harassment to law officials. Retaliation Prohibited Retaliation or reprisal against any person who reports an incident of bullying, or cooperates in an investigation, is strictly prohibited. Any such retaliation or reprisals will result in suspension or expulsion of offending students.
WEAPONS AND DANGEROUS OBJECTS
Students shall not possess or use weapons or other dangerous objects of any kind
while on school district property or at any school related activity. Students who violate this policy are subject to disciplinary action in accordance with district policy.
Under the Gun Free Schools Act, any student bringing a firearm to school or any school activity shall be expelled for a period not less than one calendar year. Any student found to have a weapon or dangerous object in their possession will face suspension from school based upon severity of infraction. A weapon or dangerous object is defined to include things such as fireworks, knives, air guns, slingshots, and other items not all inclusive in this list.
WEAPONS AND DANGEROUS OBJECTS continued…
Threatening to bring weapons to school or even mentioning the possibility of bringing any weapons to school is unacceptable and has generally resulted in a three-day out-of-school suspension and notification to the Sitka police. The administration reserves the right to take more severe action depending upon the nature of such threats. Student safety is a priority and these matters will be treated seriously.
Dance Rules
v All Sitka School District rules apply as described in BMS Student Handbook. Students who break school rules or are otherwise disruptive while at a dance may be prohibited from attending future dances in addition to other consequences. These rules include appropriate dress and clothing.
v Pay and sign in at the front table.
v Coats, sweatshirts, backpacks, hats, purses, handbags, cameras and cell phones will be left in a designated area.
v Please do not bring valuables.
v Dances are for BMS students only.
v If a student is absent from school the day of the dance student may not attend the dance.
v Students who receive two or more office referrals, who have been suspended (out of school), or who have been truant within the 20 school days prior to a dance are not permitted to attend that dance.
v One hour after the dance starts is the latest students may arrive to attend the dance.
v Once a student signs out and leaves they are not allowed to come back in.
v Students and adults involved with the sponsoring group will work to clean the dance area and the commons before they leave.
v Supervisors must be over 21. Sponsoring group is required to have teachers as well as parent supervision. Supervising adults should arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the dance.
v Supervision of students is required until everyone has left the building. Do not leave any student without shelter and access to a telephone
v The music is pre-selected and pre-approved by the vice-principal at least 1 week in advance and the DJ’s must play only this music.
v DJ’s and dance sponsors are 100% responsible for music selection. Inappropriate or obscene lyrics will force the cancellation of the dance immediately.
v No one is allowed on the stage except the DJ’s.
v Treat others with respect and obey the chaperones at all times.
v “Public displays of affection” are not appropriate and will not be tolerated.
v Absolutely no soda pop / beverages or candy and gum in the MPR.
v Absolutely no shaving cream cans or spray string allowed on premises inside and outside school property.
v Slam dancing is prohibited.
v No high school students, working as DJ’s or in the Concession Stand, will dance with middle school students.
SNOWBALL POLICY
Throwing snow, ice, and/or snowballs is prohibited at all times on campus and on the way to or from school. Students may be suspended out-of-school for a first time offense.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Students may choose to participate in a number of extra-curricular activities in the area of music, athletics, and academic contests. School sponsored activities will begin as close to the end of the school day as possible to assure maximum student participation. Students involved are expected to follow the rules of that activity and the rules of the school's eligibility policy. Students who are absent or suspended from school on the day of an activity will not be allowed to attend that activity.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR ELIGIBILITY POLICY
I. Activities
1. All extra-curricular activities have full enforcement of this policy.
2. All co-curricular activities have limited enforcement of this policy (limited in areas where course requirements pertain).
II. Eligibility Standards
1. Academic
· Participants must have an overall average of 2.5 in all classes with no single class below a grade of 2.0.
· Participants must meet this standard at the beginning of the activity and maintain it throughout the activity.
2. Behavior
• Chronic referrals to the office for violations of school-wide rules may result in temporary removal from the activity. This removal may be short or long term, depending upon the frequency and severity of the offense(s).
• Behavior of a severe nature will be considered flagrant and may cause immediate removal.
• Students involved with tobacco, alcohol and/or drugs will be immediately removed from the activity they are currently involved in. The student will also be encouraged to complete the following educational program:
* Individual, educational counseling through counselor referral.
* Ten hours of community service through a supervisor at school.
* Submit a paper following a prescribed format covering what was learned through the process. Upon completion of the paper, a meeting would be held with the student, parents, and counselor.
• Failure to complete this program will result in loss of eligibility for all future middle school extra and co-curricular activities.
3. Non-Participating Students
• Any student involved with violations on school time or at extracurricular activities regarding tobacco, alcohol and/or drugs will be required to complete the same educational program outlined above. In doing so, the student will be restored to full eligibility for future participation in school activities.
EXTRA-CURRICULAR TRAVEL POLICY
• Eligible seventh and eighth grade students will be allowed to travel on school sponsored interscholastic activities. SIXTH GRADE STUDENTS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO TRAVEL.
• Each extra-curricular/co-curricular activity will be allowed one trip per year.
• Dependent upon availability of student activity funds, eighth grade activities will receive first priority for funding travel.
• Any student found in violation of policy while on the trip will have parents contacted and will be sent home at the parent's expense at the earliest convenience.
GRADE REPORTING
EXPECTATIONS
Each teacher will explain his or her course standards, expectations, and system for evaluation.
GRADING SYSTEM
The marks used to report student progress are as follows:
4 Advanced Proficient
3 Proficient
2 Below Proficient
1 Far Below Proficient
0 No Attempt Made
Report Cards will be sent out every semester. The Progress Reports that a student receives at other times are only an indication of how the student is progressing at that time.
Failure to complete assigned course work may result in denial of promotion until work is satisfactorily completed. Every effort will be made by the Blatchley Middle School staff to provide an education for each child that is commensurate with that child's abilities and needs.
HOMEWORK INFORMATION
Information regarding homework assigned for the day may be obtained by contacting individual teachers. Teacher contact information can be found on the BMS website http:sitkaschool.org/bms
PROMOTION AND RETENTION
Students who pass core classes for the year will be recommended for promotion to the next grade. Students who do not meet this requirement in any particular core class may have their academic progress reviewed for possible additional academic support.
HOME-SCHOOL COMMUNICATION
Our home-school communication process emphasizes early and consistent intervention steps, which include the following:
* Grade Book Internet Viewer: http:sitkaschool.org/bms
* Parent-Teacher Conferences
* Assignment Notebooks
* After School Tutoring
* An invitation to participate in Parent Advisory Meetings
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES
Parent-Teacher Conferences are scheduled twice a year during progress report time. Progress reports may be picked up by a parent/guardian at the office. Teachers are available to be seen by the parent/guardian on a first come, first served basis as well as by appointment. Any progress reports left after conferences will be mailed home.
REPORT CARDS
All report cards and other progress reports may be mailed home or provided upon parent request.
GRADE INFORMATION
Information regarding a student’s grade-to-date in all their classes may be obtained through progress reports, Gradebook internet viewer or by contacting the teacher directly. Contact information can be found at the BMS website http://sitkaschools.org/bms.
GRADEBOOK INTERNET VIEWER
Another avenue regarding student’s grade-to-date is the Parent Viewer. Parent viewer can be accessed from any computer via the Internet. Parents will be given the Student ID and PIN Code at the beginning of the year. Parents can visit the Blatchley web site at: http:sitkaschool.org/bms and click on the Grades. On the Parent Internet Viewer Home Page, click on the “click here to begin” link, key in Student ID and PIN code and “Request Report”. Various reports for all of the student’s classes are available.
ALASKA BENCHMARK EXAMINATION
The State of Alaska requires Standards Based Assessment for grades 6, 7, and 8. These tests will measure whether students are meeting standards in reading, writing, math and science. By doing well on these tests, students will know they are on track to pass the High School Graduation Qualifying Examination (a requirement for graduation).
ACCIDENT/ILLNESS AT SCHOOL
In case of an accident, the school will notify the parent/guardian and ask for further instruction. If needed, emergency medical service will be called.
It is important for the school to have correct phone numbers so parents/guardians can be located. Those numbers are kept in the office. Those listed as #1 will be contacted first with subsequent numbers called in order. Parents and students are required to keep this information current. Students will not be sent home unless a responsible adult is there to receive them.
ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE PROCEDURES
The commons area is open at 7:45 a.m. and is available for students to sit quietly while waiting for school to start. Students may be allowed in the building at that time with a pass or under the supervision of a teacher. The building is open to all students at 8:30 a.m. Students may not leave school property once they have arrived.
Students should leave promptly once school is dismissed and after the busses have departed. Students will not be allowed to loiter in the halls or commons area. Parents that drop off and/or pick up their child are asked to use the swimming pool parking lot to avoid bus traffic.
BACKPACKS
Backpacks, purses, handbags, toys and personal items are to be stored in their lockers and not taken to class. Students will have time at the end of the day to return to their lockers and assemble items to be taken home.
BICYCLES/SKATEBOARDS
Students who ride bicycles to school must park them in the area provided and lock them when not in use. Anyone borrowing another student's bike or doing damage to a bike will be subject to disciplinary action. Bikes are ridden and parked at the school at your own risk. The Sitka School District is not responsible for any damage to student bicycles.
Skateboards, roller skates, scooters, and in-line skates are to be placed in student lockers at the beginning of the school day. At NO time are skateboards, roller skates, scooters, and in-line skates to be used in the school building or during the school day. Violation of this may result in administration confiscating the item and only releasing the item to student’s parent or guardian.
CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY
Students are responsible for the proper care of all books, supplies, lockers, and furniture supplied by the school. Students who disfigure property, break windows, or do other damage to school property or equipment, will be required to pay for the damage done or replace the item.
Students who purchase candy, pop, or other snack food items are to consume such items before they enter the main building. Trash cans are provided near the main entrance to the building and in the commons. Please take pride in your building and help keep it looking nice.
DRESS AND APPEARANCE
All students are expected to dress and groom themselves neatly in clothes that are not considered disruptive to the educational process. No hats/caps/head scarves/bandannas or coats are allowed to be worn in school after 8:30 and before 3:20, and will be stored in students' lockers. Shoes or sandals must be worn at all times. Clothing such as "belly shirts", halter-tops, shirts or pants that reveal underclothing, pajamas, or sagging pants will not be allowed. Dress straps must be at least “two fingers wide.” Clothing expressing profanity or obscenity or advertising alcohol, tobacco or gang related affiliation may not be worn at school. Any wording or images that are considered obscene, profane, or express sexual innuendos are prohibited. Clothing, or material, containing any print or image that is derogatory to any race, gender, religion, sexual preference, or ethnic group is prohibited. Skirts must be no shorter that the middle finger of the student’s hand when the student hangs their hands at their side. Students may be asked to wear leggings or shorts under skirts considered to be too short. Jewelry or accessories that may be considered unsafe will not be allowed.
Students wearing inappropriate clothing will be asked to change their clothing or to contact a parent to bring appropriate clothing to wear. Hats and caps will be confiscated if worn during the school day.
Cell phones, cameras and portable music devices are to be put away and stored in the student’s locker (unless specifically allowed by a teacher) when they enter the school building at 8:30 and are not to be used again until students are in the commons area after 3:20.
FIELD TRIPS
From time to time, teachers plan field trips with their students to visit places that fit into the course of study for the class. Usually, these places are within walking distance of the school, but sometimes a school bus is used.
Students must have written parental/guardian permission in order to participate in trips requiring transportation. One permission slip signed at the beginning of the year will serve for all local field trips. The classroom teacher will provide an alternative educational experience for those students whose parents/guardian do not want them to attend a field trip.
EMERGENCY DRILLS
Emergency drills are held periodically to acquaint students with the precautions to be taken if an emergency occurs. Cooperation of all students is required.
During a drill, all persons in the building are to leave by way of the nearest exit. Follow the instructions that are posted in each room for the proper emergency route.
A tsunami warning will be issued through the P.A. system by the office. Students should immediately report to their class teacher for direction. Students will be evacuated to the High School. All students are in the charge of Blatchley Middle School Staff until a parent comes to the High School to pick them up. Please clear your student's dismissal with a school official before taking him or her.
HALL CONDUCT
Students are expected to behave politely and quietly in the hallways when passing between classes and before and after school. Students are not permitted in the hallways during class periods unless a teacher accompanies them or they have a hall pass.
HEALTH INFORMATION
An individual health record will be on file for each student in the building. Health information will be recorded as received. Emergency information should be on file for each student in each building. Parents have the obligation to provide current medical and/or emergency information and contact numbers. Information concerning each student's health record and emergency contacts should be updated at registration.
A Certificate of Immunization or religious/medical exemptions must be on file for each student. A minimum of three doses of DPT and OPV, and one dose of MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella) given after the first birthday are required. A booster dose of DT (Diphtheria/Tetanus) is required every 10 years.
The student health screenings to be conducted throughout the school year include hearing/vision (done in the fall in grades K, 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, and 11) and scoliosis/spinal checks. Parents will be notified following screening tests if their student should be referred for further diagnosis.
T B Skin Tests (Monovacc) are required by Alaska State Law and will be administered in grades K, 1, 3, 7, and 11, and for all new students. It is the parent's responsibility to notify the office if students have had a TB Test in the last 6 months.
Head Lice is a common school age problem. Please check your child's head regularly for signs of nits or head lice. This can save your child from missing valuable school time or any embarrassment at school. The Sitka School District has a head lice policy that is consistent with
HEALTH INFORMATION continued…
other school districts. If your child has nits or head lice please notify the school at once. Students with head lice will be sent home and it is expected that the problem will be taken care of by the parent(s) so that the child can return to school within 48 hours.
Students who become ill during the day should get a pass from a teacher to come to the office. In case of injury at school, the office will notify parents and make necessary arrangements. If needed, the emergency medical unit may be called.
Medication Procedure: Medication given at school (prescription or over-the-counter drugs) will be done under the supervision of the office. The medication must be sent to school in the original container stating the student's name, medication, dosage, time to be given, date, and the doctor's name. The student's parent/guardian and doctor must sign a Request for Administration of Medication form to have medication given by a staff member authorized in giving medication. Our staff will only dispense medications, which have written authorization by both the physician and parent/guardian. Please remind your student that he/she is responsible for asking for the medication at the appropriate time.
All medications, including non-prescription drugs (i.e. cough drops, aspirin, Tylenol, vitamins) must be kept in a file in the main office. Students are not allowed to keep any medication in their lockers, backpacks, pockets, etc.
HOMEWORK
Here are a few helpful tips to help you complete your homework successfully
• Write each daily assignment in your assignment notebook/planner
• Establish a daily time for homework and complete your homework.
• Study in an area that is quiet, comfortable, and free of distractions.
• Use your assignment notebook and check off each assignment as you complete it.
• Put your completed homework in the appropriate notebook or folder so you can find it.
Volume of homework varies with each teacher and class. If you have any questions about your homework assignment, log onto the Blatchley Website, http:sitkaschools.org/bms and visit the homework section.
INTERNET POLICY
The Sitka School District has access to the Internet and encourages students and staff to utilize this valuable tool as much as possible. In order to have a clear understanding of all the parameters and responsibilities surrounding the internet, the Sitka School District requires parents to read the Internet Use Agreement, sign and return the permission slip attached.
LIBRARY
The Blatchley library is open during the day to scheduled class and students with passes. It is often available after school for students finishing class work and projects.
The Sitka School District makes an online encyclopedia available to all school district families. The address is http://www.worldbookonline. The login is ssdonline and the password is research. Please call Kari Sagel at 966-1411if you have any difficulties using this resource.
LIBRARY continued…
Databases for Alaskans: Online newspaper, journal, and magazine articles are available through the first menu choice (Magazines, Newspapers, and More) at http://sled.alaska.edu. Please scroll to the bottom of the Databases for Alaskans page for password information.
Please call Kari Sagel, Blatchley librarian, at 966-1411 with any questions about the library program, these resources, Battle of the Books, Book Club or student store. Please visit the Blatchley library website!
LOCKERS
The school will assign a locker to each student. He/she is responsible for keeping the locker clean and in good shape. Locker clean out will be held quarterly by core teachers. The student must remove any writing on a student's locker immediately. Writing on, or otherwise damaging lockers, will be regarded as vandalism. Students are expected to use prudence and good judgment in other displays in their lockers; they will be required to remove any objectionable materials. Students will be responsible for damage done to their lockers.
Students must use their own locker and no one else's. Keep things safe by not giving locker combinations to anyone, not even best friends. Remember, lockers are provided to give students a safe place to keep possessions, but items missing or stolen from lockers are the student’s responsibility, not the schools. If a student wishes to change from one locker to another, they must clear it with the office first. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items stored in the locker.
Student lockers remain the property of the school and may be searched by school officials at any time to follow up on reasonable suspicion of harmful or illegal items as well as violation of school rules.
LUNCH PROGRAM
The school provides a hot lunch program for all students. Students may purchase the school's hot lunch or they may bring their own lunch. To participate in the school's hot lunch program, a lunch account in the student’s name must be established through the school office (families qualifying for Free and Reduced Meals need to contact the office). Students access their computerized account by entering their personal identification number while going through the lunch line. Students will be notified at that time if there is a low balance and it will be their responsibility to add money to their account. Parents have access to lunch balances by calling 966-1401. Students who carry a negative balance of more than $50.00 will not be allowed to charge for another lunch until the negative balance is cleared. All lunch account business should be taken care of in the office prior to the start of the school day.
Lunch is eaten in the MPR. Students may not eat in the commons or hallways and are required to leave lunch tables and the surrounding area clean. After eating lunch, students may go outside. Students have the ball field, bleachers, side parking area and the covered play area to use for recreation during lunch. The dugouts (in, on, or behind them), the sidewalk along Halibut Point Road, the area behind the school and all areas outside the ball field fence are off limits. Students may use the bathrooms in the hallway with permission from school staff.
Students who are disruptive during lunch can expect to be disciplined by being assigned to specific seats, assigned to eat in the office, or not allowed to eat at school. School rules and the school discipline policies apply at all times.
THE OFFICE
Office Hours: Office personnel are available in the school office from 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.. The office phone is 747-8672.
Announcements: Announcements are given at the beginning of the school day.
Messages: Unless it is an emergency, the secretary will take parents' phone messages for students and will relate the message at the end of the day.
Telephone: Office telephones are for school business use only. A student phone located at the office counter may be used with a pass from a teacher. Students may use the telephone for short periods of time (generally no more than two minutes at a time). Students who abuse telephone privileges may be denied use of the telephone for a period of time.
Lost/Found: If you've lost an item, please check with the office. If you've found an item that doesn't belong to you, please bring it to the office so we can return it to the right owner. Students should not bring large amounts of money or valuable items to school. If you must bring them, please let us keep them in the office for you.
Visitors: Parents are always welcome at Blatchley. We require all visitors to check in at the office. Students wishing to bring a guest to school are asked to make arrangements with the principal prior to attending classes and secure a visitor's pass for their guest. Reasons for the visit will determine if permission will be granted. The school policy is to accept only those visitors who have legitimate business at the school.
Contacting Teachers: We encourage any parent to make an appointment for conferences by stopping by the office or phoning the school (747-8672). Staff email addresses are also available at the BMS website. http:sitkaschool.org/bms
OPEN HOUSE
The middle school hosts an open house each school year. This affords the parents an opportunity to visit the school. Your questions and comments are always welcome.
P. E. REQUIREMENTS
Physical Education is required daily unless excused by written request of the family doctor and parent. Appropriate gym clothes are required for participation. We would recommend that your name be printed on all of your P. E. clothing.
It's very important that your PE locker combination is not shared with anyone and you keep your PE locker locked. If you must bring money or valuables to school, please bring them to the office for safe-keeping.
PROHIBITED ITEMS
The following items are not allowed on school campus because they interfere with the learning process or present potential harm to students:
• Laser Pointers
• Matches or lighters
• Cigarettes or other tobacco products
• Firecrackers, caps, noisemakers
• Alcohol or other illegal drugs
• Knives of any kind, darts, or other sharp objects
• Weapons
• Any other items that may disrupt or harm
Items may be confiscated and parents may be required to pick them up. Any item confiscated for the second time may mean the item is not allowed at school for the remainder of the year. Items of a harmful or illegal nature will be dealt with accordingly through the school disciplinary policy.
RECOGNITION
A variety of recognition and awards are available for students.
Classroom Rewards: Students will find that many teachers give rewards to recognize effort, achievement and cooperation in their classes. Individual teachers will explain their reward system to students.
Awards Assemblies: Students will be recognized for their participation and achievement in school academic and extra-curricular activities through school-wide assemblies. Parents are welcome to attend these assemblies.
RELEASE OF STUDENT INFORMATION
Directory information may be released to selected authorized agencies, i.e.: Sitka Native Education Program, Sitka Tribal Association, etc. regarding any individual student of the school as necessity or desirability arises. Name, address, telephone listing, participation in activities and sports and awards received are examples of the pertinent information released.
A parent or guardian not wanting this information released should inform the school principal in writing.
SCHOOL INSURANCE
A student " accident only" insurance plan is available for all students through the school office. This plan is available to supplement insurance already carried by the student's family. Information regarding school insurance will be sent home with your child the first week of school.
STUDENT RECORDS
The Sitka School District maintains records on each student in order to facilitate the instruction, guidance and educational progress of the student. The records contain information about the student and his/her education.
The records of each student are the responsibility of the building principal and are generally located in the school building in which the student is attending. School records are made available to parents or guardians upon request. An administrator must be present when records are being reviewed.
TEACHER COMMENT FORM
Comments regarding a teacher's performance may be formalized by obtaining a Teacher Comment Form from the office. When a form is filled out, it must be accompanied by a signature and then given to the Principal.
TEXTBOOKS
Textbooks are the property of Blatchley Middle School. If a book is marred, defaced or shows excessive wear and tear, it will be necessary for the student to pay for the book. If you lose a textbook, you will be required to pay for the book before another book can be issued. If your book is found, your money will be refunded.
TRANSPORTATION
Bus transportation is provided for students to and from school. Riding on a school bus is a privilege and students are expected to act responsibly when on the bus. Students may be deprived of this privilege whenever their continued presence on the bus may jeopardize the safety of other students or the bus driver. Students are assigned to and expected to ride specific buses. Students are also required to follow the lawful directions of bus drivers.
Any student who misbehaves on a school bus may be denied the opportunity to ride a school bus. The bus driver is responsible for managing student behavior on the bus. All school rules of conduct will be enforced on the bus. Discipline procedures used in the school building will also be followed on the buses.
School rules apply at the bus stop and at the loading area at Blatchley. Students should board their assigned bus promptly at the end of the day.
WITHDRAWAL AND TRANSFER
If your family plans to move out of the district, your parents or guardian should telephone or send a note to the school at least three days in advance of the move. A withdrawal form must be taken to each teacher for signature and exit grade. All schoolbooks, library books, school property, and school fines must be given to the office before grades will be released. A parent or guardian may authorize school records to be sent to another district in which a student plans to enroll.
SITKA SCHOOL DISTRICT INTERNET USE AGREEMENT
Internet Use and Electronic Mail
Letter to Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Regarding Student Use of the Internet
Dear Parent(s)/Guardian(s)
We now have the ability to enhance your child’s education through the use of the Internet. The Internet offers vast, diverse, and unique resources. The District's goal in providing this service is to promote educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation, and communication. Your authorization is needed before your child may use this resource.
The Internet electronically connects thousands of computers throughout the world and millions of individual subscribers. Students and teachers may have access to:
• Limited electronic mail communications with people all over the world.
• Information from government sources, research institutions, and other sources Discussion groups.
• Many libraries, including the catalog to the Library of Congress, and the Educational resources Information Clearinghouses (ERIC).
In order to match electronic resources as closely as possible to the approved district curriculum, district personnel will review and evaluate resources in order to offer "home pages" and menus of materials which comply with Board guidelines governing the selection of instructional materials. In this manner, staff will provide developmentally appropriate guidance to students as they make use of telecommunications and electronic information resources to conduct research and other studies related to the district curriculum. All students will be informed by staff of their rights and responsibilities as users of the district network prior to gaining access to that network, either as an individual user or as a member of a class or group.
As much as possible, access to district information resources will be designed in ways which point students to those which have been reviewed and evaluated prior to use. While students may be able to move beyond those resources to others which have not been evaluated by staff, they shall be provided with guidelines and lists of resource particularly suited to the learning objectives. Students may pursue electronic research independent of staff supervision only if they have been granted parental permission and have submitted all required forms. Permission is not transferable and may not be shared.
Students are responsible for good behavior on school computer networks just as they are in a classroom or a school hallway. Communications on the network are often public in nature. General school rules for behavior and communication apply.
The network is provided for students to conduct research and communicate with others. Access to network services is given to students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner. Parent permission is required. Access is a privilege not a right. Access entails responsibility.
Individual users of the district computer networks are responsible for their behavior and communications over those networks. It is presumed that users will comply with district standards and will honor the agreements they have signed. Beyond the clarification of such standards, the district is not responsible for restricting, monitoring or controlling the communications of individuals utilizing the network.
Network storage areas may be treated like school lockers. Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and insure that users are using the system responsibly. Users should not expect that files stored on district servers will always be private.
Within reason, freedom of speech and access to information will be honored. During school, teachers of younger students will guide them toward appropriate materials. Outside of school, families, bear the same responsibility for such guidance as they exercise with information sources such as television, telephones, movies, radio and other potentially offensive media.
Terms and Conditions
1. Acceptable Use - Access to the District's Internet must be for the purpose of education or research, and be consistent with the educational objectives of the District.
2. Privileges - The use of Internet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those privileges.
3. Sanctions - Violations may result in a loss of access. Additional disciplinary action may be determined at the building level in line with existing practice regarding inappropriate language or behavior. When applicable, law enforcement agencies may be involved.
4. Unacceptable Use - You are responsible for your actions and activities involving the network. Some examples of unacceptable uses:
a. Using the network for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright or other contracts, or transmitting any material in violation of any U.S. or State regulation;
b. Unauthorized downloading of software, regardless of whether it is copyrighted or devirused;
c. Downloading copyrighted material for other than personal use;
d. Using the network for private financial or commercial gain;
e. Wastefully using resources, such as file space;
f Gaining unauthorized access to resources or entities;
g. Invading the privacy of individuals;
h. Using another user's account or password;
i. Posting material authored or created by another without his/her consent;
j. Posting anonymous messages;
k. Using the network for commercial or private advertising;
l. Accessing, submitting, posting, publishing or displaying any defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, profane, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, harassing, or illegal material; and
m. Using the network while access privileges are suspended or revoked.
5. Network Etiquette - You are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These include, but are not limited to, the following:
a. Be polite. Do not become abusive in your messages to others;
b. Use appropriate language. Do not swear, or use vulgarities or any other inappropriate language;
c. Do not reveal the personal addresses or telephone numbers of students or colleagues
d. Recognize that electronic mail (E-Mail) is not private. People who operate the system have access to all mail. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities;
e. Do not use the network in any way that would disrupt its use by other users.
f. Consider all communications and information accessible via the network to lie private property.
6. No Warranties - The district makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for the service it is providing. The District will not be responsible for any damages you suffer. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, missed deliveries, or service interruptions caused by its negligence or your errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the internet is at your own risk. The District specifically denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through its service.
7. Indemnification - The user agrees to indemnify the District for any losses, costs, or damages, including reasonable attorney fees, incurred by the District relating to, or arising out of, any breach of the Authorization.
8. Security - Network security is a high priority. If you can identify a security problem on the internet, you must notify the system administrator. Do not demonstrate the problem to other users. Keep your account and password confidential. Do not use another individual's account without written permission from that individual. Attempts to log-on to the internet as a system administrator will result in cancellation of user privileges. Any user identified as a security risk may be denied access to the network.
9. Vandalism - Vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges and other disciplinary action. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user, the Internet or any other network. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creation of computer viruses.
10. Telephone Fees and Charges - The District assumes no responsibility for any unauthorized charges for fees, including telephone charges, long-distance charges, per-minute surcharges, and/or equipment or line costs. Parents/Guardians shall be responsible for any fees or charges incurred by their child's inappropriate use of the Internet.
For the Student:
I understand and will abide by the above Internet Use and E-Mail Agreement. I further understand that any violation of the regulations above is unethical and may constitute a criminal offense. Should I commit any violation, my access privileges may be revoked and school disciplinary action and/or appropriate legal action may be taken.
For the Parent/Guardian:
As the parent or guardian of this student I have read the internet Use and Electronic Mail Agreement. I grant permission for my son or daughter to access networked computer services such as electronic mail and the Internet. I understand that this access is designed for educational purposes. I recognize it is impossible for Sitka School District to restrict access to all controversial materials and I will not hold them responsible for materials acquired on the network. Further, I accept full responsibility for supervision if and when my child's use is not in a school setting. I hereby give permission to issue an account for my child and certify that the information contained on this form is correct. Please sign the correct form found at the end of this section.
Blatchley Middle School Commitment to School Safety
You and your child will be receiving the following handout at the beginning of the school year and will be asked to make a commitment to school safety. It reads as follows:
As a student of Blatchley Middle School, I pledge to help ensure that my school is a safe place to attend and to learn. With my pledge, I promise to share with a teacher, counselor, or administrator any information that could result in someone being injured or harmed. If I am uncertain of the seriousness of the concern, I will report it and allow the adults to make that judgment. I understand that I may remain anonymous when I report my concern. I may give my name when reporting, and if I do, my report will remain confidential. I believe that my school should be a place where all students are treated with respect, receive a quality education, and feel safe. Recognizing that every student has the right to a safe environment where everyone is treated with respect:
v I understand that I have an essential role in school safety and violence
prevention.
v I will immediately report any threats of violence, suicide, presence of weapons or explosives to a school administrator, counselor, or teacher, to allow them to investigate and determine the seriousness of the report.
v I will do all I can to stop the harassment of others.
v I will promote the acceptance of individual differences, recognizing that diversity contributes to the strength of Blatchley Middle School.
PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNATURE PAGE
As stated in our registration letter, you and your child should read and discuss the BMS student handbook, including the “Commitment to School Safety.” By reviewing the contents of this booklet, you and your child will have a better understanding of the expectations and policies of our school.
Please read and sign the form below. Thank you very much.
Sincerely,
Joe Robidou, Principal – Blatchley Middle School
I GIVE MY PERMISSION FOR MY CHILD TO GO ON FIELD TRIPS WITH HIS/HER CLASS. I UNDERSTAND THAT NO ADVANCED NOTICE WILL NECESSARILY BE GIVEN FOR SUCH ACTIVITIES.
I GIVE MY PERMISSION FOR MY CHILD TO USE THE INTERNET AND I UNDERSTAND THE PARAMETERS CONCERNING ITS USE (AS OUTLINED IN THIS HANDBOOK).
MY STUDENT AND I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THE “COMMITMENT TO SCHOOL SAFETY INFORMATION ON PAGE 25.
PRINT STUDENT NAME: __________________________________________
STUDENT SIGNATURE: __________________________________________
PARENT SIGNATURE: __________________________________________
DATE:________________
