Millbrook High School



Millbrook Middle SchoolHome of Blazer P.R.I.D.E BOARD OF EDUCATIONPerry Hartswick, PresidentPaul Tobin,Vice-PresidentJennifer Carnecchia, Claudia Heunis, Christopher Rosenbergen, John M. Rudy, Howard Shapiro, & Paul TobinCENTRAL ADMINISTRATIONMs. Laura Mitchell., Superintendent of SchoolsCaroline Hernandez-Pidala, Assistant SuperintendentBrian S. Fried, Assistant Superintendent677-4200BUILDING ADMINISTRATION Steven Cabello, Principalsteven.cabello@677-4210 ext 3103Alfred Hammell, Dean of StudentsAlfred.hammell@ 677-2510 ext 2123 Joanne Winters, Administrative Secretaryjoanne.winters@677-4210 ext 3100Janet Monahan, Greeter & Attendance Secretaryjanet.monahan@677-4210 ext 3101GUIDANCE Kelly Mahoney, Counselorkelly.mahoney@677-4210 ext 3109 Jennifer Obrizok, School Psychologistjennifer.obrizok@677-4210 ext 3108This Student Handbook is based on the Millbrook School District Code of Conduct, which outlines the rules and regulations of the school district as mandated by the State of New York. It is the Code of Conduct that regulates policy as it pertains to acceptable behavior. MILLBROOK MIDDLE SCHOOLP. O. Box AA, Millbrook, NY 12545 845-677-4210 fax 845-677-6913September 2020Dear Students:We are so excited to have you all back to school! On behalf of Millbrook Middle School, welcome to our newest members; our 6th graders and future MMS graduates of 2027! We would like to extend a big welcome back to our 7th and 8th graders, who will serve as leaders in the building throughout the school year. As we return from our well-deserved break from school, know that behind the scenes teachers and staff have been working hard to make sure that this school year gets off to a great start. School will be fun, school will be safe but, most of all school will be challenging and rewarding.We urge you to bring your best each and every day to Millbrook Middle School. That goes for academics as well as character. Here at MMS we take our PBIS program very seriously and always bring a positive attitude. We expect that you will show everyone you live by our P.R.I.D.E. principles as we do. That means that each and every day we will be prepared and show respect. We will have integrity and be determined as we strive for excellence in all that we do. As a faculty and staff, we are committed to work with you and your family collaboratively in this process and guide you, as your partner, in all of your pursuits. We are confident that you will enter our doors ready to problem solve and strategize. Together we will conquer new levels of academic challenges, while demonstrating our collective positive values as a school community. Best wishes for a challenging, fun and successful school year. Go Blazers!Sincerely,-Mr. Cabello, Principal MILLBROOK MIDDLE SCHOOL CLASS PERIOD SCHEDULEREGULAR DAY 1 HOUR DELAY2 HOUR DELAY 3A HOUR DELAY EARLY RELEASEACTIVITY PERIODWarning BellMORNING SCHEDULEWarning BellWarning BellWarning Bell10:52SCHEDULE 6Warning Bell7:528:529:52Period 1 Warning Bell7:52Home RoomPeriod 1Period 110:55 - 11:267:52Period 17:55 - 8:088:55 - 9:329:55 - 10:24Period 5Period 17:55 - 8:33Period 1Period 2Period 211:29 - 11:597:55 - 8:40Period 28:11 - 8:529:35 - 10:1110:27 - 10:56Period 6Period 28:36 - 9:14Period 2Period 3Period 312:02 - 12:328:43 - 9:28Period 38:55 - 9:3610:14 - 10:5010:59 - 11:28Period 7Period 39:17 - 9:55Period 3Period 4Period 412:35 - 1:059:31 - 10:16Period 49:39 - 10:2010:53 - 11:2911:31 - 12:00Period 8Period 49:58 - 10:36Period 4Period 5Period 51:08 - 1:3810:19 - 11:04ACTIVITY PERIOD10:23 - 11:0411:32 - 12:0812:03 - 12:33Period 910:39 - 11:20Period 5Period 6Period 61:41 - 2:11EARLY RELEASEPeriod 511:07 - 11:4812:11 - 12:4712:36 - 1:06Period 3AFTERNOON SCHEDULE11:23 - 12:01Period 6Period 7Period 72:14 - 2:44SCHEDULE 7Period 611:51 - 12:3212:50 - 1:261:09 - 1:393B HOUR DELAY Warning Bell12:04 - 12:42Period 7Period 8Period 8Warning Bell7:52Period 712:35 - 1:161:29 - 2:051:42 - 2:1210:52Period 512:44 - 1:22Period 8Period 9Period 9Period 27:55 - 8:31Period 81:19 - 2:002:08 - 2:442:15 - 2:4410:55 - 11:26Period 61:25 - 2:03Period 9Period 58:34 - 9:09Period 92:03 - 2:44 11:29 - 11:59Period 72:06 - 2:44Period 69:12 - 9:4712:02 - 12:32Period 8Period 79:50 - 10:2512:35 - 1:05Period 9Period 810:28 - 11:041:08 - 1:38Period 91:41 - 2:11Period 42:14 - 2:44STUDENTS’ RESPONSIBILITIESAll Millbrook Middle School students have the responsibility to:Contribute to maintaining a safe and orderly school environment that is conducive to learning, and to show respect to the other persons and to property.Be familiar with and follow all district policies, rules and regulations dealing with student conduct.Attend school every day unless they are legally excused and be in class, on time, and ready to learn.Work to the best of their ability in all academic and extracurricular pursuits and strive toward their highest level of achievement possible.Develop a consideration and mutual understanding for such differences as social, economic and cultural backgrounds, and attitudes.Work to develop mechanisms to control their emotions.Ask questions when they do not understand.Seek help in solving problems that might lead to discipline.Conduct themselves as representatives of the district when participating in or attending school-sponsored extracurricular events and to hold themselves to the highest standards of conduct, demeanor, and sportsmanship.Accept responsibility for their actions.DAILY LIFE AT MMS***The following is a description of a typical day at MMS. In the 2019-2020 school year the COVID-19 global pandemic caused changes in the daily operating procedures and protocols in the Millbrook Central School District. Any changes to our daily procedures in the 2020-2021 school year will be communicated to you directly from the principal. Thank You for your collaboration as always!***ARRIVAL TO SCHOOL No student is permitted in the building before 7:40 a.m. Students arriving before 7:50 must enter through the downstairs entrance near the traffic circle (outside the auditorium) where a greeter will direct them to the cafeteria for supervision. Breakfast is also available in the cafeteria beginning at 7:40. Those who wish to get off their buses early in order to buy breakfast need to first obtain a breakfast pass from the main office (no charge). The auditorium entrance will be locked at 7:50 a.m.; students who arrive thereafter must use the main entrance, which is monitored throughout the school day.Home Base occurs at the beginning of the day and is a regular and important part of the overall academic program at MMS. Students and their HB teacher will use this time in a variety of ways, e.g., character education, sustained silent reading, building community, PBIS initiatives, physical activity, preparing for the day, and much much more! Announcements are made daily and students are expected to be attentive and quiet during all announcements. ATTENDANCE AND ACTIVITIESThe Board recognizes the following as legal excuses for student absence, each of which must be verified by the student’s parent/guardian or school personnel, where applicable:Personal illnessDeath in the immediate familyReligious observanceRequired attendance in courtApproved school-sponsored activities, incl. field trips, interscholastic athletics, musical and other competitionsDirected or authorized presence at the Administrative Offices or Nurse’s Office.QuarantineEmergency dental and medical appointmentsApproved cooperative/work study program.Any absence not provided for on the excused list shall be deemed an unexcused absence. Students that are unexcused from school cannot participate in extracurricular/ after-school activities and functions, including but not limited to; sports, clubs, dances, ceremonies, concerts, & school productions If a student is absent for any reason—including, but not limited to, those mentioned above—the parent/guardian should contact the school attendance secretary—Ms. Janet Monahan—at 677-4210 extension 3101 or janet.monahan@ . Upon student’s return, send in a signed written note or send email, noting reason for absence. Attendance is a crucial part of the learning process and we will work with families to ensure all students have the opportunity to be present to maximize their learning. All students will need to be in attendance for a full day in order to participate in an after school activity that day. Students must be in attendance from the start of 2nd period in order to participate in after school activities (unless prior approval is received from a school administrator. Procedure for Absent Make-up Work - Make-up assignments shall generally be required for all excused absences within one week of the student’s return to class. With the approval of the Building Principal, make-up assignments may be waived in exceptional circumstances or where a §504 accommodation is warranted. The parent(s)/guardian(s) shall be notified, by telephone and/or in writing, of any chronic attendance issues. Our goal is to work with parents to ensure regular attendance at school. Students who are placed on home instruction due to a physical or emotional illness by the Assistant Superintendent or her/his designee are not permitted to attend any Millbrook Central School District extracurricular events or activities (including athletics). BUS SCHEDULEAll buses arrive by 7:45 A.M. Afternoon Buses leave at 2:55 P.M. On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday additional “late” bus runs depart at approximately 3:30 P.M. CAFETERIA:Students are encouraged to wake in time to eat a healthy breakfast before coming to school each day. For students who do not have time to eat at home a limited breakfast menu is available for purchase between 7:40 and 7:50 a.m. This breakfast is available daily and we encourage all students to take advantage of this wonderful opportunity. All students may purchase food and/or beverages during any of the scheduled lunch periods. Water in unbreakable containers (e.g. recyclable metal, plastic) is the only beverage permitted outside the cafeteria. Students are encouraged to engage in appropriate social and physical activity (weather permitting) during the lunch period; normal rules and regulations are to be followed. Students who require repeat interventions will be suspended from recess privileges.CLOSED CAMPUS RULESStudents are assigned a definite class or area for each period of the day. No students may leave the building during a lunch, study hall or any class period without using the proper sign-out procedures. All students need to sign in and out with an approved written excuse at the attendance desk in the main office. Notes will be verified. Students not following proper procedure will be subject to disciplinary action. No student who has left campus at the end of the school day will be given a pass for the late bus.DAYS 1-6We are on a 6 day rotation; but most of your classes meet every day. For those that meet every other, e.g., ysical Education, you need only know if it is an “odd” or “even” day. In case of a snow day, the next day back to school becomes the day that was cancelled. For example, if there was a snow day off on Day “2”, the next day back becomes Day “2.”EARLY DISMISSALEarly dismissal requests signed by a student’s parents are to be given in at the main office. Students will not be excused unless the written request can be verified by a parent or guardian. The school nurse may excuse a student early for illness after she has contacted the parent, arranged for transportation and been assured that the parent or guardian is at home or is assuming responsibility for the student. Students dismissed early for whatever reason must also sign out from the main office before leaving the building. Parents/guardians should come into the main office for student pickup. FIELD TRIPSAll students participating in a field trip must return parental consent to their teachers. Teachers, well in advance of any scheduled trip will distribute information to families. Students are reminded that, while on a field trip, they are subject to the same rules of conduct that apply while they are in school. Students must meet the following to be eligible for field trips. Behavior- Subject to review and recommendation of the administrationFaculty and Staff (when elicited) will determine whether the student should be excluded from the tripPurposeful instruction must be provided to students who do not attend the tripThe student must be in good academic standing and have a strong attendance recordHALL BEHAVIOR & PASS GUIDELINESStay on the right side Walk always—we don’t run in the hallsKeep your hands to yourself at all times; even if intended as a joke, reaching out to touch someone while on the go can result in a serious injury!!!Go to your locker during permitted timesUse “indoor” voices, refrain from: boisterous behaviors, holding hands, hugging, and walking arm- in- arm.Avoid congregating in hallways or stairways.Keep moving! Remember that being on time means you are in your classroom seat prior to the bell.Remember to uphold the PRIDE principles and display your best behavior. Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.1. Your schedule assigns you to a definite class or area for each period of the day. If you have a legitimate reason for being elsewhere, the teacher in charge must issue a pass, or make a notation in your planner designating the time you leave and the place you are going.2. Students without passes will be asked to return for a pass from the teacher who sent them out originally.3. Abuse of hall passes will result in pass restrictions. LATE BUS PASSES and AFTER SCHOOLStudents who stay after school MUST be under the supervision of a staff or faculty member. That means either leaving campus at dismissal or reporting immediately to your after school coach, teacher or club moderator. That person will issue a bus pass which is needed to board the late bus. Late buses are available on Tue, Wed, and Thu and leave school approximately 3:30 p.m. No students will be allowed to ride on a bus without a late bus pass. Students who go into town for any reason will not be given a late bus pass upon their return.IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTSUnder law, all students entering or attending the school district are to present a written record of immunization against measles, poliomyelitis, diphtheria, rubella, mumps, hepatitis B. Evidence of immunization shall be a health provider’s statement certifying that immunization has been completed or a record from the Health Department. In case of a transfer student from another school or district, the cumulative health record shall be acceptable proof of immunization.Public Health Law, Section 613, requires the Commissioner of Health to do an annual public survey to determine the immunizations of all children entering school for the first time and conduct annually, an audit of such survey. The nurse shall audit the immunization status of all students. A student who has not received one or more of the required immunizations shall be given a “grace period” of 14 days if there is good effort to obtain the immunizations. A “grace period” of 30 days is allowed for students transferring from another state or country.INTERNET USE: USE OF COMPUTERS AND NETWORKED INFORMATION RESOURCESThe Millbrook Central School District is committed to the optimization of student learning and teaching and, therefore, encourages the use of computers and networked resources, including the Internet. The District encourages computer network use as an integral part of the curriculum. Through software applications, online databases, bulletin boards and electronic mail, the network will enhance educational experience and provide statewide, national, and global communication opportunities for staff and students. The use of school computers, software, network resources and/or the Internet for non-educational purposes such as for profit activity, personal business or illegal activity is prohibited. Each student or staff member who wishes to use a school’s network must establish a user (ID) account in order to assure the integrity of the network and Internet in the District. Each account holder must agree to act responsibly and to comply with this policy and the administrative procedures promulgated by the Superintendent of Schools regarding access to and use of computers and networked information resources. Therefore, prior to establishing a user account, each student and staff member must sign a user agreement. In the case of students, the student’s parent or legal guardian must also sign the user agreement. These user agreements will be available in the office.LATENESS TO SCHOOL Students are expected to arrive on time to school. If a student is not present at the start of class (7:55 a.m.), he or she is considered late to school and must sign in at the main office. Repeated offenses will result in escalated consequences, including but not limited to parental notification, consultation, and removal of non-academic privileges. Our goal is to support families in ensuring on time arrival to school each day. Timeliness is an important habit of mind that we know will serve our students well in their future college, career, and personal experiences.LATENESS TO CLASS: Unexcused lateness to class puts the late student at a learning disadvantage and is a disruption of the learning environment. Students will receive a warning from the classroom teacher and repeated offenses will result in escalated consequences in line with the district code of conduct.LIBRARYThe school library supports the curriculum with a wide variety of instructional materials. Books not available in the library can be requested through the Dutchess County BOCES School Library System. The library is open from 7:40 am to 3:45 pm Tue, Wed and Thu and until 2:20 p.m. on Mon and Friday. The staff is available throughout the school day to assist with reference questions, research and assignments. Library materials may be signed out for a period of two weeks, and renewed if necessary. Computer and Internet use is for educational purposes only. LOCKERS, BACKPACKS, & PERSONAL ITEMSStudents in Grades 6-8 will not be permitted to carry backpacks or their equivalent in the hallways or classrooms. Purses that are large enough to carry a school textbook will be considered a backpack. Students may carry these items to and from school, but they must remain in their hall lockers throughout the school day. Rolling book bags are not allowed since they will not fit in hall lockers. Students are strongly discouraged from bringing valuables into the school building. Personal items not carried must be stored in the hall or gym locker and locks must be secured. Students are not permitted to share their locker combinations with one another.LOST AND FOUNDA small bin for lost and found items will be maintained in the main office. Students are encouraged to bring lost items to this location and also to check it regularly for their own items. Unclaimed items will be donated to a local charitable organization. This will be done at the winter/spring breaks and at the end of the school year.MEDICATION ADMINISTRATIONA written order from a duly licensed prescriber and written parental permission to administer medication during the school day is required. All medications given in school, including nonprescription drugs, shall be prescribed by a licensed prescriber on an individual basis as determined by a student’s heath status. Medication orders must be renewed annually or when there is a change in medication or dosage. Decisions regarding self-administered medication shall be made on an individual basis and in accordance with State mandated criteria.SCHOOL CLOSINGS AND DELAYSWhen school is to be closed or delayed due to bad weather, road conditions or other emergencies, please check the district web site. Automated School Messenger calls will also be generated to households who have elected to be in the system. Announcements will be made from these radio stations: WGHQ 92 AM, WBNR 1260AM, WLNA1420 AM, WKIP 1450AM, WSPK 104.7 FM, WPDH 101.5FM, WHUD 100.7FM, WPKF 96.1, WRRV 92.7, 96.9, WCZX97.7MIX, WRWD 107.3FM, and Television Stations: WRNN (Kingston), WRGB (Albany), WTEN (Albany). Cable: YNN. Please do no call the school or administration for information as no one will be available to assist you. TEXTBOOKSTextbooks are generally issued to all students; however, a small fee may be charged for some workbook material. Students are asked to furnish a book cover for each book. Books are to be returned at the end of each course. Students will be required to pay for books which have been lost or carelessly damaged. A found book should be returned to the Main Office or to the course teacher.WORKING PAPERSWorking papers or employment certificates are required by law for employed students between the ages of 12 and 17. It is not the function of the school to enforce this law, but rather to issue the proper form or certificate required by the employer. Application forms and working papers are available from the Guidance Office. Upon completion of the application for such working papers, you must show to Guidance proof of age (such as birth certificate or current school record showing proof of age), proof of a current physical and a parent’s or guardian’s signature in order to receive your working card. All papers are to be approved by the Principal. Only students in good academic standing may be issued working papers in keeping with the laws of New York State.Safety DrillsSafety drills are intended to insure your safety. Every drill is to be treated as if it were a real emergency. Instructions for leaving the building are posted in each classroom. Teachers will periodically review safety drill procedures. The following are procedures for you to keep in mind: The first person to reach a door is to open it and pull down the catch to hold it open.Exit in a quick fashion. Do not talk or run. In case of emergency, special announcements might need to be given in the event anexit is cut off.Upon exiting, wait at least 20 feet from the building until told to return and go to theteacher you are to be with.At times, it may be necessary to have a fire drill without the use of the fire alarm system. At those times you will be asked to evacuate over the PA system.EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES AT MMSNATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETYREQUIREMENTS: All students in grade 8, with 93 averages, are eligible to apply. For admission, the student must fulfill four criteria: scholarship, leadership, service and character.SCHOLARSHIP: a student must have a cumulative average of at least 93 percent.LEADERSHIP: A student must demonstrate active participation in community or school activities. A written indication from the advisor of the activity will be requested. The student is resourceful in proposing new programs, applying principles, and making suggestions. The student contributes to school activities, is able to delegate responsibilities, and exemplifies positive behavior.SERVICE: A student must have been active in service projects in the school or community. A recommendation will be required for each activity. The student volunteers and provides dependable and well organized assistance. The student is a mentor in the school and community.CHARACTER: This area is measured in terms of integrity, behavior, and cooperation with both students and faculty. It is evaluated by the faculty. The student manifests truthfulness in acknowledging obedience to rules, avoiding cheating in written work. The student regularly shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others. As proof of service, members must have a service activity with contact information (in place of form signed by) the person in charge of the activity. Guidance will compile a list of students who meet the scholarship criterion. These students are then responsible for gathering the information for their service and leadership criteria and returning it to the Honor Society Advisor. This list of names is also sent to all teachers who then rate the students on the basis of character. After information of all categories is compiled, a committee reviews each file and makes a final recommendation to the Principal. Service is an important aspect of the National Junior Honor Society. In keeping with this spirit, a service component is required to maintain membership.? All members are required to donate twenty-five hours of service from September to June.? Service may be school projects or pre-approved community projects such as peer tutoring, office help, teacher’s aide, library assistant.As proof of service, members must submit a service activity form signed by the person in charge of the activity to the NJHS advisor. ? Members who do not complete fifteen of the required hours of service by the end of January will receive a probationary warning letter.? Members who do not complete the required hours are subject to removal from the National Junior Honor Society.SPORTSDepending on the year, the possible modified athletic offerings are listed below. All students must have a sports physical to participate. Sports physicals are regularly scheduled during each of the three sports seasons. It is the student’s responsibility to sign up in the nurse’s office. You must have a valid sports physical within the last twelve months in order to participate in any sports. If a student leaves a team either voluntarily or as a result of a disciplinary action, parents will be notified in writing.FALL Cross Country – Boys & GirlsField Hockey Football Soccer – Boys & GirlsVolleyballWINTER Basketball – Boys & Girls Track – Boys & Girls SPRING Baseball Softball Track & Field – Boys & GirlsART CLUB - The Art Club is open to all students in Grades 6-8. The club meets once per week. The Art Club engages in various activities, e.g., paints murals in the school. Involvement in community projects is on a voluntary basis (i.e., paintings, signs, murals, etc.) and usually requires out of school time. The Art Club meets throughout the year.BOOK CLUB – Open to all students in grades 6-8. This club explores literary texts through reading and discussion. CODE CLUB – Open to all students in grades 6-8. This club is for students who have an interest in science and technology as it applies to computer and/or game coding. DEBATE CLUB- Students learn how to research positions on controversial topics and engage in effective debate. The club is open to students in grades 6-8. Debate Club meets once per week. DRAMA CLUB- Open to all students in grades 6-8. This club will work on performing a production for audience viewing.GARDEN/WELLNESS CLUB-Club members are responsible for the Wellness garden currently in place at MMS. They also engage in community based activities to promote sustainability and a healthy lifestyle. FCCLA- Open to all students interested in family and consumer science activities. FACS meets once per week after school. INTRAMURALS – Sport clubs opened to all students who wish to participate. Ideal for students who are not able to, or do not wish to participate in Modified Sports.JR. INTERACT - Open to all students in grades 6 - 8. The club meets every two weeks and is affiliated with the Millbrook Rotary Club. Interact is an organization that tries to help others by carrying out projects for the betterment of the community.P.R.I.DE. CLUB – Open to all students in grades 6-8. This club is designed to promote character education and a positive school culture through peer mediation, school events, and other activities. Students also become hands-on participants in planning specific activities (i.e. “No name calling week”) to enhance and compliment the school climate. ROBOTICS- Activities include model rockets, salt water powered cars, hovercraft model making, and remote control Lego robot building. Club members are encouraged to build items of interest, and to test their designs.STUDENT COUNCIL - Open to all students in grades 6 – 8. The council organizes community service and recreational activities and serves as a forum for exchanging ideas and encouraging sense of school and community pride. Elections are held in the beginning of the year. The four officers are elected by the general Middle School student body, and any students may be student council members. This club is designed to allow students a voice in making decisions which affect them. The group plans trips, dances, and other fund-raising events. Meetings generally are held once a month.YEARBOOK - Open to students in grades 6 - 8. The purpose of the Yearbook is to record special events occurring throughout the school year. Duties are writing, photography, basic and graphic design and sale of advertisements.(Clubs run based on student interest and enrollment on a year to year basis)ACADEMICSACCELERATION:Students will be placed in accelerated classes on the basis of a variety of measures, including: average of the four academic quarters, performance on State and local exams (when available), other performance data, an entrance exam, and teacher recommendation. For the 2019-2020 year, Math 7A (leading to Algebra I), Algebra I Common Core and Earth Science Regents are available for those who qualify. All 7th and 8th grade students are accelerated in the area of foreign language. French and Spanish are offered and will result in high school credit upon successful completion of the course and its culminating exam at the end of Spanish 1 & French 1; offered in the 8th grade. ENRICHMENT:Enrichment courses are designed to allow for students to examine an area of interest and delve deeper into course material. Students will be enrolled in an enriched (deeper level) course of choice; for 2020-2021 these are: Physical Education/Wellness, History through Film, Introduction to Culinary Arts, S.T.E.M 6/7/8, and Enriched Art/Graphic Design. (All enrichment courses are schedule permitting) It is the philosophy of Millbrook Middle School to provide students with a well rounded enrichment experience that gives students (schedule permitting) the opportunity to take as many different enrichment courses as possible during their time at MMS. ACADEMIC SUPPORT FOR STUDENTS’ SUCCESS:After-school help is available. Students should arrange these sessions with individual teachers.Conference: teacher, parent, counselor, and student will be scheduled for students failing at the midpoint of the mark period or at any other time during the school year at parent or teacher request.Summer School - Attendance and successful completion of a NYSED approved summer school program may be used to meet the promotion requirements. These opportunities are very limited in our area; however, there are correspondence courses available, at individual cost to students’ families. Information is available from the guidance counselor or principal.Learning Center: After school help in all subjects on Tue, Wed, and Thu.Response to Intervention (RTI) Team: The RTI Team’s major purpose is to determine the needs of each student in the building and to determine the manner in which each child’s needs are best served. Teachers make referrals to the RTI Team for students who aren’t achieving (academically or behaviorally) at an appropriate level. Forms are available in the main office. ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTSAll students participating in extracurricular activities in the Millbrook Central School District will be subjected to the Academic Eligibility Requirements (AER).Student grades will be determined by the five week progress report and the marking period grades.Final year grades will be used to determine a student’s status for the fall season (summer school grades will be used to determine eligibility for the fall season).?1. If a student has ONE failure: a.? ? Student may participate in extracurricular activities. b.Student will meet with his/her counselor to form a plan of support to help student avoid future ineligibility.2. ? If a student has TWO failures:a.Student will be on a 5-week probationary period.? While on probation the student will be permitted to participate in extracurricular activities.?b.The Athletic Director or Principal will meet with the student to develop a plan for academic support.Student must submit a weekly progress report to the Principal completed by teachers in all subjects.?A student who fails to adhere to the academic support plan or hand in a completed weekly progress report shall be considered ineligible for participation in all extracurricular activities for the remainder of the probationary period.After the five week probationary period if the student has 2 or more failures he/she will be declared ineligible and may not participate in any extracurricular activities for the subsequent five week period.?If a student has THREE OR MORE failures:? a.? ? Student will be ineligible for participation in all extracurricular activities for a five week period.PLEASE NOTE:? an ineligible student may not participate on an athletic team if the try-out process has been completed prior to reinstatement.?Appeals:Students may appeal extracurricular restriction. Any appeal by a student with respect to a determination of eligibility shall be heard by an Academic Eligibility Committee consisting of the Principal, Athletic Director, School Psychologist and Teacher representative.? The student may be accompanied to the eligibility hearing by his/her parent and guidance counselor. ???DUE PROCESS A written appeal to the Eligibility Coordinator must be initiated within two school days of the eligibility period.? During the appeal process, the student will remain ineligible. If the student is confused about the due process procedure, it is his/her responsibility to seek the advice of the Administration.The Eligibility Coordinator will meet independently with the student and teacher to attempt to resolve the issue.? If the appeal cannot be resolved among these parties, the Principal shall act on the appeal and the decision will be final.EXAMSAll students will take NYS ELA and Math exams; grade 8 students will also take NYS Science written and performance exams in late May/early June. You are also encouraged to check the website: for testing and other important information. 2020-21 NYS EXAM DATESGrades 6 – 8 ELANYSESLATGRADES 6 – 8 MATHSCIENCE ( 8th Grade ONLY)Monday April 19-Monday April 26Monday, April 19 – Friday, May, 28Tuesday, May 4– Thursday, May 6Performance: Tuesday May 25 – Friday, June 4Listening, Reading, & Writing: Monday, May, 17 – Friday, May 28Written: Monday, June 7 Algebra I CCTBDEarth Science RegentsTBDOTHER FINAL EXAMSAll students are expected to complete any school exams or final projects given in June. Final Examinations occur in the areas of ELA, Math, Science and Social Studies. Exceptions cannot be made for vacations and other non-school related events. French I and Spanish I Students: Any student who is absent for the year end language proficiency exam cannot receive credit for the course until satisfactorily completing the proficiency exam; the first opportunity to do so is June of the following school year. GRADE NOTIFICATIONStudents and Parents, please note these grade reporting end dates on your calendars. All progress reports and report cards are sent via secure email, usually the Wednesday following the end of the 5-week period. We no longer send paper copies home in the mail. You will need your child’s student ID# to access these reports. Please keep that number for reference. Call the main office if you don’t know your child’s student ID#.Progress Report:End of Quarter:10/8/2011/13/2012/18/201/29/213/5/214/16/215/22/216/25/21Parents are also encouraged to use the School Tool parent portal to check on their children’s progress throughout the academic year. Contact the main office if you do not yet have access. Contact the main office to help facilitate setting this up.GUIDANCE PROGRAMIn grades 6 - 8 the Guidance Counselors provide the following academic services:1. An annual review of each student’s educational progress;2. Individual or group counseling assistance to help students who exhibit any attendance, academic, behavioral or adjustment problems. 3. Advice to parents on recommendation of the Committee on Special Education. SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGISTIn grades 6 - 8 the School Psychologist provide the following academic services:1. Standardized testing for special education2. Individual or group counseling assistance to help students exhibit any attendance, academic, behavioral, or adjustment concerns. The School Psychologist provides social/emotional support to students on an as needed basis. 3. ?Chair Committee on Special Education meetingsHOMEBOUND INSTRUCTIONStudents who are unable to attend school due to an extended illness or a related incapacity are eligible to receive instruction in their home on a daily basis for each day that school is in regular session, with proper documentation. Every effort is made to maintain the student’s present curriculum through the close cooperation with the regular teaching staff. Students can earn regular grades and credits during their homebound instruction. If the need for homebound instruction arises, parents should obtain medical documentation and immediately contact the student’s Guidance CounselorHOMEWORKHomework provides excellent opportunities for developing good study habits, providing for individual differences and abilities, and encouraging self-initiative and responsibility on the part of the student. Consistently doing homework is essential for academic success. Homework is a vital component of an integrated course of study and an appropriate extension of instruction begun in school. Completing homework develops independent thinking and good work habits, and fosters mutual understanding between school and home. Parents and/or guardians can assist their children with homework by:- encouraging the use of a daily planner- communicate with teachers should there be academic concerns about homework or other academics- providing a study area free of distractions- asking questions about the content of student homework- giving requested assistance, but letting the student do his or her own work.- avoiding undue pressure.When a student is absent for longer than one day, a parent/guardian may call the Main Office to request homework for the days that will be missed. Homework may be picked up in the Main Office after dismissal. Students are responsible for all work missed due to absence.HONOR ROLLA student earns a place on the PRINCIPAL’S LIST if he/she has an overall average of 94.5 or above using ALL SUBJECTS.A student earns a place on the HONOR ROLL if he/she has an average of 89.5 or above using ALL SUBJECTS.A student earns HONORABLE MENTION status if his/her marking period average is 5 or more points higher than at the end of the previous marking period. LEARNING CENTER/AIS SERVICESSome students will be scheduled for Learning Center as a result of their performance on NYS exams or other measures; this is mandated AIS and tailored to meet their individual learning needs. Additionally, all students are encouraged to take advantage of this academic support center on a drop-in basis (with a pass) during their study halls and/or lunch periods. The Learning Center is also open and available after school. PROMOTION GUIDELINESDEFINITIONS:1. Full-Year Course - a course that meets daily for 40 weeks.2. Half-Year Course - a course that meets daily for 20 weeks or every other day for 40 weeks.3. Quarter-Year Course - a course that meets daily for 10 weeks.It is expected that all students successfully complete all courses undertaken. Students will be promoted unless, at the end of the fourth marking period, they fall into one of the following categories: Category I - Failure to pass two or more required full-year courses.Category II- Failure to pass one required full-year course and two or more required half-year courses; orFailure to pass one required full-year course, one required half year course, and one required quarter-year course;orFailure to pass one required full-year course and three required quarter-year courses.Category III - Failure to pass four half or quarter-year required courses.SUPPORT FOR AT-RISK STUDENTSThe Guidance Department or Principal’s Office shall be responsible for making a personal contact with a student who is in jeopardy of failure for the purpose of determining what reason or reasons are contributing to the student’s lack of success. Reasonable efforts shall be made to assist the student in addressing the causes contributing to the failure. Such efforts may include:? Discussions with the student’s teacher or teachers.? Discussions and/or meetings with the student and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s).? Discussions with the student’s guidance counselor.? Recommendation to the appropriate authorities for the suspension of extra and co-curricular activity privileges.Parents & Guardians are encouraged to utilize SchoolTool and the Parent Portal to monitor their students’ grades and contact the appropriate teacher when academic issues arise. Parent meetings can be scheduled with a grade level team through the Guidance Office or through the Team. We look to support all students in any way possible in order to be successful.CONDUCTCODE OF CONDUCTAll students are expected to abide by the Millbrook Central School District Code of Conduct policy #5300.DISCIPLINEMillbrook Middle School is a place where students learn more than just academics. Our P.R.I.D.E. character education program is integrated throughout the curriculum in order to help each student become his or her personal best. Discipline is progressive, i.e., consequences are in keeping with the level of offense, and they escalate with repeated occurrences. Education, not just punishment, is an integral component. Teachers, staff members and administrators have the responsibility to fully investigate infractions before responding with the appropriate level of consequence. For their part, students have the responsibility to become familiar with and follow all the rules and regulations that are in place to ensure their safety and well-being, as well as their growth into mature and responsible citizens. By following our P.R.I.D.E. principles, students will be equipped to conduct and maintain positive and appropriate behavior. Parents are encouraged to contact teachers and school administrators directly with questions and comments so that we may partner together in providing the best possible discipline system for our students. Parents and students should also refer directly to the district Code of Conduct, available on the district web page for information about student behavior and disciplinary consequences.DETENTION Afternoon detention is from: 2:55 to 3:20 pm on Tues and Thu; students may not leave the room once they report. Regular school rules apply, e.g. no hats, food, drink or electronic devicesTalking or sleeping will not be permitted. Students are expected to bring academic work with them and will also be required to complete a reflective activity sheet. Their comments will be read by an administrator and follow up will take place if necessary.Students will be seated in the room according to teacher direction and are expected to exhibit exemplary behavior. Negative teacher reports will result in additional consequences as well as parental notification and conference.Students who arrive more than 10 minutes late will be issued an additional detention.Students who miss their assigned detention are insubordinate to the reasonable directive given to them and could be given further consequences in line with the code of conduct. FOOD DELIVERYNo student will be allowed to order or accept delivery of food during the hours between 7:45 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.GUESTSStudents must receive written prior permission from the school principal before bringing a guest to school for the day. Parents are encouraged to call the main office for more information regarding potential school visitors. HEALTH OFFICEA school nurse is in the Health Office everyday 7:30 AM - 2:45 PM. Illness and accidents occurring during school must be reported to the office and permission to leave the school, when necessary, must be obtained from the nurse and/or the Principal. There will be a school nurse on call at all times. Students are to receive a written pass from their academic instructor before proceeding to the Health Office. Students are strongly discouraged from frivolous visits, so as not to tie up the school nurse in non-emergency situations. All medicine(s) will be distributed by the Principal if a nurse is not available. LUNCH DETENTIONLunch detention occurs during a student’s regular lunch period in a separate location. Students may not leave the room once they report. All regular school rules apply. Talking or sleeping will not be permitted. Students are expected to bring academic work with them and will also be required to complete a reflective activity sheet. Their comments will be read by an administrator and follow up will take place if necessary. Students will be seated in the room according to teacher direction and are expected to exhibit exemplary behavior. Lunch detentions may be assigned directly by a teacher or as an administrative consequence from administration. Failure to attend an assigned detention or a negative teacher report will result in additional consequences as well as parental notification and conference.PLAGIARISM Students will continue to receive instruction in proper citation as required within their course work. Copying information from the Internet or any other source without proper citation will be considered plagiarism. Plagiarism is a serious offense; if a student is found to have intentionally plagiarized, appropriate disciplinary consequences will be assigned and parents will be informed. Students will receive a grade of zero for any submitted work that has been intentionally plagiarized. Copying work from another student will also be dealt with in a similar fashion. REMOVAL FROM THE CLASSROOM:In keeping with NYS Education Law students can be removed from the classroom for “substantially disrupting the educational process or interfering with the teacher’s authority in the classroom.” This is a very serious step in our progressive disciplinary program. Initial responses by teachers would include private conferencing with the student, one calls home, after school or lunch teacher detentions and consultation with pupil personnel services and/or school administration. RESOLVING PROBLEMSIf you have a complaint, problem or issue, use the following procedure to get the most effective resolution:Try dealing directly with the person with whom you have the problem.If the problem cannot be resolved, speak with a teacher, Guidance Counselor or School Psychologist.If the problem still cannot be resolved, take your complaint to an administrator.IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSIONNo student shall be suspended from school in his/her regularly scheduled classes without being provided alternative equivalent instruction, either in the form of home instruction or instruction in an alternative setting. In-school suspension is utilized when several detentions have not successfully changed student misbehavior and/or, for more serious infractions. Students serve ISS in the main office or where designated; as such, their behavior is expected to be exemplary and non-intrusive. Under no circumstances are students to interfere with the normal operations of office personnel nor are they permitted to socialize with other students during this time. All school rules continue to apply (e.g. no hats, no electronic devices). Students will be provided with work from their teachers so that their learning experiences will closely mirror that day’s lessons. Students will be escorted for bathroom breaks and to the cafeteria if they need to purchase lunch. Lunch will be eaten in the main office or area where the suspension is being served.OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSIONPrior to a proposed suspension from school, parents shall be notified in writing of the decision. Suspended students will receive alternative equivalent instruction. Out of school suspension is the highest level of penalty imposed by the school principal. It is utilized for more serious infractions such as fighting on school grounds or possession of a weapon. A maximum 5 day suspension is allowable; additional out of school suspension time requires a hearing with the Superintendent of Schools. Those scheduled for a hearing are advised to consult the district code of conduct for additional information. A principal may suspend a student with an educational disability for a short-term (5 school days or less) in the same manner as non-disabled students may be suspended. A principal’s designation of an Interim Alternative Education Setting must be made in consultation with the student’s special education teacher. In the event that a student has a known disability or when school officials can be deemed to know, in accordance with law, that a student has a disability, the District will first proceed to conduct a §3214 disciplinary proceeding for any suspension of more than five days.OUT-OF-SCHOOL MISCONDUCTA student may be subject to discipline for conduct constituting a crime which is committed off of school premises or at non-school sponsored activities to the extent that the Superintendent of Schools and/or Board of Education believes that the continued attendance in school of the student would adversely affect the educative process.Furthermore, students should also be aware that they are still protected by and subject to NY State regulations regarding the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) while away from school grounds. For more information about DASA rules and regulations, parents and students may consult the district website under the drop-down menu for “policies and plans.” PROTOCOL FOR EFFECTIVE HOME TO SCHOOL COMMUNICATIONStart with your ChildContact Person CLOSEST TO THE CONCERNRequest Meeting if NecessaryIf No Resolution, Contact Person at Next Level (see below)Start with your ChildContact Person CLOSEST TO THE CONCERNRequest Meeting if NecessaryIf No Resolution, Contact Person at Next Level (see below)CLASSROOM, GRADING, HOMEWORK , &CURRICULUMTeacherAssistant Principal orPrincipalAsst. Supt. for Curr., Instruction and PPS Superintendent of SchoolsCLASSROOM, GRADING, HOMEWORK , &CURRICULUMTeacherAssistant Principal orPrincipalAsst. Supt. for Curr., Instruction and PPS Superintendent of SchoolsATHLETICSCoach Athletic DirectorSchool Counseloror PrincipalSuperintendent of SchoolsATHLETICSCoach Athletic DirectorSchool Counseloror PrincipalSuperintendent of SchoolsDISCIPLINE, INSTRUCTION, SPECIAL EDUCATION, TESTING AND MISC. Assistant Principal OR PrincipalAsst. Supt. for Curriculum, Instruction and Pupil Personnel ServicesSuperintendent of SchoolsDISCIPLINE, INSTRUCTION, SPECIAL EDUCATION, TESTING AND MISC. Assistant Principal OR PrincipalAsst. Supt. for Curriculum, Instruction and Pupil Personnel ServicesSuperintendent of SchoolsSAFETY, FACILITIES, FOOD SERVICE, TRANSPORTATION Dean of Students/PrincipalAsst. Supt. for Business, Finance & OperationsSuperintendent of SchoolsSAFETY, FACILITIES, FOOD SERVICE, TRANSPORTATION Dean of Students/PrincipalAsst. Supt. for Business, Finance & OperationsSuperintendent of SchoolsSOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL Teacher School Counselor or PsychologistDean of Students/PrincipalAsst. Supt. for Curr., Instruction and PPSSuperintendent of SchoolsSOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL Teacher School Counselor or PsychologistDean of Students/PrincipalAsst. Supt. for Curr., Instruction and PPSSuperintendent of Schools ................
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