WELCOME [www.midwayisd.org]



WELCOME

|COURSE SELECTION & |

|ORIENTATION PACKET |

|2016 2017 |

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|Principal: |Dr. Herb Cox | |

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|Assistant Principals: |Brian Vasek |7th Grade |

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| |Mandi Bronstad |8th Grade |

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| |Paul Offill |7th/8th Grade |

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|Counselors: |Angel Heath |7th Grade |

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| |Kirk Parker |8th Grade |

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|School Phone: |761.5680 |

|Attendance Clerk: |761.5680 |

|Nurse’s Office: |761.5681 |

|MISD Administration: |761.5610 |

|MISD Transportation: |761.5620 |

It is the policy of Midway ISD not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or handicap in its vocational programs, services or activities as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended. It is the policy of Midway ISD not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, handicap, or age in its employment practices as required by Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended. Midway ISD will take steps to assure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission and participating in all educational and vocational programs. For more information about your rights or grievance procedures, contact Title IX Coordinator Mary Lou Glaesmann and/or Section 504 Coordinator Tami Wiethorn at 13885 Woodway Drive, Woodway, Texas 76712, 254-761-5610.

Es norma de Midway ISD no discriminar por motivos de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo, o impedimento, en sus programas, servicios o actividades vocacionales, tal como lo requieren el Título VI de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964, según enmienda; el Título IX de las Enmiendas en la Educación, de 1972, y la Sección 504 de la Ley de Rehabilitación de 1973, según enmienda. Es norma de Midway ISD no discriminar por motives de raza, color, origen nacional, sexo, impedimento o por la edad, en sus prácticas de empleo, tal como lo requieren el Título VI de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964, según enmienda; el Título IX de las Enmiendas en la Educación, de 1972, la ley de Discriminación por razón de edad, de 1975, según enmienda, y la Sección 504 de la Ley de Rehabilitación de 1973, según enmienda. Midway ISD tomará las medidas necesarias para asegurar que la falta de habilidad en el uso de la lengua inglés no sea un obstáculo para la admisión y participación en todos los programas educativos y vocacionales. Para obtener información sobre sus derechos o para el procedimiento apropriado para reportar sus quejas, favor de ponerse en contacto con la Coordinadora de Título IX, Mary Lou Glaesmann y/o con la Coordinadora de la Sección 504, Tami Wiethorn at 13885 Woodway Drive, Woodway, Texas 76712, 254-761-5610.

This comprehensive guide to graduation plans and course offerings is your road map to academic success at Midway Middle School. It has been designed to help students and parents plan for the high school years so that students may prepare for high school and a career.

Midway ISD, in support of the state’s college and career initiative known as Achieve Texas and the newly adopted House Bill 5 statute, has designed our secondary course offerings to support the nation’s sixteen Career Clusters and Texas’ five graduation Endorsements, or Endorsement Academies. This initiative calls for parents to be actively involved in their children’s education and career plan. Endorsement Academies and Career Clusters provide an avenue for schools to energize and motivate students to learn and achieve – with relevant and engaging curriculum through projects and authentic problem solving. By grouping courses together according to how they support career goals, Endorsement Academies seamlessly integrate academic and elective classes to provide suggested course sequences based on individual needs, interests and career goals.

All 7th – 10th grade students take a career interest survey each year to assist them in identifying with a Career Cluster/Endorsement Academy. This information provides a starting point for conversations between parents, students and MISD faculty and staff when determining course selections each year. During yearly academic advisement, students may make changes to their Career Cluster/Endorsement Academy focus based on changes in interests and/or career goals.

Please use this Course Catalog and the Two Year Plan sample worksheet to develop a plan that meets your needs. This can assist in annual advisement with the counselors and can be used as a tool to explore the many course offerings at Midway Middle School.

Helpful Links

Midway ISD

Achieve Texas

Texas Education Agency tea.state.tx.us

US Department of Education

Career Cluster Initiative

Career Exploration

GIFTED PROGRAM

Venture is the name of our gifted and talented program at Midway ISD.  Students are identified for the Venture program (K-12) based on suggested criteria from the Accelerated Services Division of the Texas Education Agency.  A selection committee considers scores from subjective and objective measures as well as information gathered from direct observation and samples of student products.  GT screening occurs annually.  Participation in the Venture program requires written permission.  Students may be exited or furloughed from the program at parent request if it is determined that Venture placement is not meeting the needs of an individual student.  Parents may initiate the exit or furlough procedure by contacting the campus administrator, counselor, or district Venture facilitator.  The Venture program addresses the four core academic areas; language arts, math, science, and social studies.  Further information is available online on the Gifted Home Page under departments>special programs at . 

At the secondary level (grades 7-12), gifted students are served through a variety of Pre-AP courses. Pre-Advanced Placement courses help students prepare to take Advanced Placement courses and exams in high school. Pre-AP teachers in the four core areas receive an annual six-hour update in gifted instructional strategies. The following Pre-AP courses are offered at Midway Middle School:

Pre-AP English

Pre-AP Math, Pre-AP Pre Algebra, Pre-AP Algebra 1

Pre-AP History

Pre-AP Science

For a student to enroll in a Pre-AP class, it is strongly recommended that the student be identified as GT (Venture) in that subject area or have at least a 90 average in that subject. If a student does not fit these guidelines, but is interested in Pre-AP classes, the parent should contact the Middle School counselor.

HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT CLASSES

The following classes are offered at Midway Middle School and also count as high school credit:

Spanish I

Algebra I (Pre-AP Algebra I)

Gateway to Technology (Project Lead the Way course)

Principles of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources

Principles of Information Technology

SCHEDULING PHILOSOPHY

MIDWAY MIDDLE SCHOOL

(Applies to scheduled courses as well as the course selection process)

❖ Courses are selected during the spring semester of the prior year. Counselors meet with students by grade level to ensure proper academic placement. Information regarding course selection is then sent home to the parents. Parents may request a conference with the counselors regarding course selection.

❖ Teachers/staff are hired, and the master schedule is set, including class sizes, according to student selections. Staffing needs are dependent upon the integrity of this process.

❖ Courses listed in the catalog are subject to student selection patterns and staffing availability and though offered, may not actually become a part of the schedule.

❖ Students MUST follow their printed schedules, or they will have unexcused absences for the classes missed.

Possible Reasons for Schedule Changes:

• Student not enrolled in a REQUIRED class

• Student scheduled for a class for which he/she already has taken

• Student is scheduled into a class for which the student does not have prerequisite, did not apply, or did not try out

• Student not enrolled in an application/audition course for which they were approved

• A scheduling error

• Balancing of class sizes

• Student needs to add a course to be a full time student/has an incomplete schedule

• Student is cut from athletic program (WITHIN THE CUT DEADLINE)

• Academic level changes (WITHIN THE CHANGE DEADLINE)

Deadlines:

• Deadline is 10 days after the start of the fall semester and 5 days after the start of the spring semester to submit a schedule change request.

• For a change from Pre-AP to Regular classes, timeline will be determined by consulting the Pre-AP and regular teacher.

• Think carefully about your selections; especially advanced level classes!

The following requests will not be approved:

• Requests for a teacher change

• Requests for a lunch change

• Requests to drop a course after the drop deadline

• Requests to add a course after the add deadline

• Requests for a period change

Other notes:

• If a student changes academic levels, the grade carries over to the new class.

• The UIL only allows a one week grace period for completing work due to an incomplete; beyond this grace period the student is ineligible.

• Any schedule changes could result in other changes within the schedule.

SAMPLE WORKSHEET

Two Year Middle School Plan

Students are required to take 8 classes per year.

7th grade Year: (semester 1 & 2)

__ __ 1. English/ or Pre-AP English

__ __ 2. Math/Pre-AP Math/Pre-AP Pre-Algebra

__ __ 3. Science / or Pre-AP Science

__ __ 4. Texas History/ or Pre-AP History

__ __ 5. Athletics/PE

__ __ 6. Elective

__ __ 7. Elective

____ 8. Elective

*Electives in 7th grade that count as high school credit are the following:

• Principles of Information Technology

• Gateway to Technology

8th grade Year: (semester 1 & 2)

______1. English/or Pre-AP English

______2. Math /Pre-AP Math/Pre-AP Algebra 1

______3. Science/ or Pre-AP Science

______4. US History/ or Pre-AP History

______5. Panther Pathways

______6. Elective

______7. Elective

______8. Elective

*Electives in 8th grade that count as high school credit are the following:

• Spanish I

• Algebra 1

• Principles of Ag, Food and Natural Resources

• Gateway to Technology

• Principles of Information Technology

Please see the Middle School course catalog for full explanation of all core and elective courses.

IMPORTANT—PLEASE NOTE:

PARENTS OF ALL 7TH GRADERS MUST SHOW PROOF OF RESIDENCY (UTILITY BILL) ON REGISTRATION/ SCHEDULE PICK UP DAY IN AUGUST. ALL STUDENTS MUST ALSO BE CURRENT ON REQUIRED IMMUNIZATIONS.

PARENTS OF 8TH GRADERS WHO HAVE AN ADDRESS CHANGE MUST SHOW PROOF OF RESIDENCY

GENERAL INFORMATION

THE SCHOOL DAY

Please refer to for more updated information on school bell schedule and starting and ending times.

Students should report to the Commons if they arrive before first period begins. In the Commons the students may eat breakfast. Students who are not eating breakfast should report to the gym and stay seated in the gym until they are dismissed by teachers/monitors. Parents dropping students off at school should enter the parking lot on the south side of the building (Taco Casa side) where students will enter the building. Only buses and faculty will be using the entrance off Hewitt Drive on the north side of the building. The entrance at the front door of the building is for visitors only. This is not a student drop off area. The bell will ring to dismiss students to their classrooms before first period--at this time all backpacks need to be stored in student lockers. A tardy bell will also ring. The students must be in their classrooms before the tardy bell rings.

ATTENDANCE

Attendance is taken each class period. If a student leaves for a portion of the day to attend a doctor, dental, or orthodontic appointment, please obtain a medical excuse from the doctor and turn it in to the main office. This also applies when a student is absent an entire day but did visit a doctor. Please contact the school each day your child will be absent. For more detailed information, please refer to your MISD Student Handbook.

CELL PHONES

Students are permitted to have cell phones at Midway Middle School. Phones are to be turned off and stored in lockers during the academic school (8:00 a.m. – 3:25 p.m.). Students are allowed to use their cell phones at lunch. See the MISD Secondary Student Handbook/Code of Conduct for more details about cell phones and other electronic devices.

ELECTIVES

We try to honor every student’s elective choices; however, there will be schedule conflicts with special classes that are offered a limited number of times during the school day. The special classes include athletics, Pre-AP sections, special education, band, Panther Chorale, orchestra, yearbook, KMTV, Spanish, advanced art, advanced theatre and PALS.

LIBRARY

Students come to the library with their English teachers every other week.  Students may also come during tutorials and after school. The library is open after school Monday through Thursday until 4:10 p.m.  Books are due after two weeks and may be rechecked once. The library website can be accessed from home. The catalog and online databases are available to students and parents at this site. Reading fluently and academic success go hand in hand—so please encourage your student to read something for 30 minutes a day to establish this skill.

LUNCH TIME

Midway Middle School has a closed campus for lunch. There are a variety of meal selections. More details will be available at the start of school. We do not encourage parents to bring food to the cafeteria at noon. If you do, please bring food for your child only.

PASSING TIME BETWEEN CLASSES

Students have 5 minutes between classes. We have attempted to localize student movement so that no one must travel a long distance or through a great deal of traffic to reach his or her destination or a restroom. If socializing is held to a minimum, there should not be a problem.

SCHOOL CALENDAR

Major events on the school calendar will be addressed with each PTA newsletter. A campus master calendar is created to prevent events from conflicting with each other on this campus. The campus master calendar can be located on the Midway ISD web site: A brief description of the event will accompany the calendar.

SEMESTER EXAMS

Comprehensive semester exams are given in 7th and 8th grades. These exams are scheduled the last three days of each semester. Exams are not given early. If students are not in school on exam days, they must take exams when they return. This will hinder the finalizing of grade reports.

TECHNOLOGY

We currently have two computer labs. In addition, all Midway Middle School students are issued an iPad.

PARENT COMMUNICATION

Midway Middle School believes parent communication plays a vital role in student success. The middle school currently offers the following services to help keep middle school parents informed:

1. The Midway Middle School PTA sponsors MMS Parent Connect. If you are interested in receiving emails about upcoming school events, please send an email to mmsptaparentlink@ `You will soon begin receiving email information.

2. Midway Middle School also offers Midway ISD Home Access Center (HAC). Parents can access student grades and teacher calendars from home computers. Please register online at the middle school website.

3. Midway Middle School makes automated phone calls--using the phone number you provided at registration—every three weeks to inform families of grade reporting dates and upcoming events.

If you have any questions regarding these two services, please contact the middle school front office at 761-5680.

PTA

PTA is an active organization of parents and teachers who support both the school and her students. Activities are held throughout the year in order to join together the school and community. Our Fall fundraiser raises money to support all of our other PTA activities. These other activities include the 7th and 8th

Grade End-of-Year Parties (Mania/Madness); Academic Excellence Awards for students making A and AB honor roll, Reflections, Teacher Mini Grants, and many Teacher Appreciation functions--just to name a few. To contact and view all PTA committees and chairmen, please go to the MMS PTA website (again reference it however was done in the “School Calendar” section. PTA is a great way to support this school and stay connected with your student(s). Get involved today!

IF YOU MISSED REGISTRATION

If the August registration is missed, all information is still available from the office. The information concerning pictures, yearbook sales, etc. is sent home with the students as it becomes available.

CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES

ART CLUB

Art Club is for students who enjoy art and want to participate in further art activities. This is a club for students in both 7th and 8th grades. 8th grade students in art club are eligible to run for office. The club meets twice a month to work on special art projects. Opportunities will also be available including field trips and fundraising projects. Participation is voluntary.

FFA

The FFA is the largest student organization in the world. FFA members are able to participate in UIL type events such as radio broadcasting, skills demonstration, job interview, and public speaking which are considered Leadership Development Events and events such as horse judging, livestock judging, dairy products, and landscaping which are known as Career Development Events. Members also have the opportunity to raise animals. The MISD Agriculture Science Facility is available to members for housing of animal projects. FFA is open to students in grade 7-12.

MCORPS

MCORPS is a volunteer organization open to all Midway Middle School students. This is a “gift of service” to our community similar to Panther Pride. There will be several locations during the 2016/2017 school year to volunteer throughout the Central Texas area.

NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY

National Junior Honor Society is an organization open to any student who maintains a 92.5 average in his/her core subjects for the first five six weeks of a school year. Induction is held during the sixth six weeks. There is no fee or expense for joining. Students must, however, apply to be screened for membership. Applications are available at the end of the fifth six weeks. To remain a member in good standing, a student must maintain a 92.5 average in his/her core subjects for each six weeks. A student receives a warning letter and a time of probation if his/her average drops. Dismissal comes only after grades have remained below 92.5 for two consecutive six weeks.

PEP SQUAD

Pep Squad is an after-school activity for 7th grade girls who would like to try out for cheerleading in 8th grade. This is a prerequisite for 8th grade cheerleading. Girls must be willing to come to the football games one night a week and cheer for one hour between 4:45 and 7:30 p.m. The girls are to wear their Pep Squad shirts and sit in a designated area in the bleachers the entire time. They will be supervised. The girls will pay $15.00 for their shirts. All Pep Squad members must maintain a 70 or above average in all classes each six weeks in order to remain in Pep Squad and become eligible to be a cheerleader in the 8th grade.

STUDENT COUNCIL

The Student Council, which serves as the representative voice for the student body, is available to 7th and 8th grade students. The Student Council is primarily a service organization that prepares students for future leadership in the community. However, the student council also sponsors school dances each year. Each tutorial class will elect one representative, and eighth grade students will be elected as officers. Students interested in running for Student Council Officer must have maintained a 75 or above average in all classes each six weeks during their 7th grade year. Elections will be held towards the end of the spring semester.

SPANISH CLUB

This is a club for Spanish students in Middle and High schools. Students must be enrolled in a Spanish class to be a member of the Spanish Club. Information and registration will be available through the Spanish classes. Participation is voluntary.

THEATRE CLUB

This is a club for Theatre students only in both 7th and 8th grades. The students will attend field trips pertaining to Theatre Arts and perform community service projects. Participation is voluntary.

EXTRACURRICULAR DISCIPLINE POLICY AND DRUG TESTING PROGRAM

Please see the Midway Middle School Extracurricular Discipline Management Plan found on the Midway Website under Departments/Athletics/General Information.



CORE COURSES

GRADE 7

English

In seventh grade, students will engage in activities that build on their prior knowledge and skills in order to strengthen their reading, writing, and oral language skills. Students should read and write on a daily basis.

Pre-AP English

In addition to the English curriculum, students are responsible for summer reading. Seventh graders must acquire and read Touching Spirit Bear by Ben Mikaelsen. Students should expect a test over the book during the first five days of class.

7th Grade Math

Students will develop fluency with rational number operations; solve problems involving ratios, rates, proportionality, and percent; use expressions and equations to describe and solve problems; use geometric formulas for pyramids, prisms, and circles; and will use data representations of center, spread, and shape to form inferences.

Pre-AP 7th Grade Math

7th grade Pre-AP Math is an advanced course that uses the 7th grade math curriculum. This course follows the same scope and sequence as the regular 7th grade math class but at a more in-depth and rigorous level. Entry into this course is based on math screener scores, state assessment scores, classroom grades, and teacher recommendation. (Successful completion of this course is not the pre-requisite needed to enroll in Pre-AP Algebra I during 8th grade.)

Pre-AP Pre-Algebra I

7th grade Pre-AP Pre-Algebra I is an advanced course that uses a blend of 7th grade and 8th grade math curricula with a focus on 8th grade standards. Due to a state requirement, students in this course will be taking the 7th grade STAAR math test. Entry into this course is based on math screener scores, state assessment scores, classroom grades, and teacher recommendation. (Successful completion of this course is the pre-requisite needed to enroll in Pre-AP Algebra I during 8th grade.)

Science Students will study safety, scientific method, force, motion, energy, molecular matter, classification, cells, internal structures, human systems, response to stimuli, genetics, food webs, composting, relationships between organisms and their environment, earth and space science, catastrophic events, succession, and living in space.

Pre-AP Science

In addition to the science curriculum, students are required to complete several writing assignments and utilize high level math and problem solving skills. Students need to be self- motivated and highly successful in their previous science classes. Participation in science fair is optional.

Texas History

Students examine the full scope of Texas history, including Natural Texas and its People; Age of Contact; Spanish Colonial; Mexican National; Revolution and Republic; Early Statehood; Texas in the Civil War and Reconstruction; Cotton, Cattle, and Railroads; Age of Oil; Texas in the Great Depression and World War II; Civil Rights and Conservatism; and Contemporary Texas eras.

Pre-AP Texas History

Assignments in the Pre-AP History class will require more critical thinking and in-depth analysis than those in academic Texas history. In addition, more independent work is expected to be completed outside of class. Participation is history fair is optional.

GRADE 8

English

In eighth grade, students will engage in activities that build on their prior knowledge and skills in order to strengthen their reading, writing, and oral language skills. Students should read and write on a daily basis.

Pre-AP English

In addition to the English curriculum, students are responsible for summer reading. Eighth graders must acquire and read The Ransom of Mercy Carter by Caroline B. Cooney. This book needs to be read in its entirety prior to the first day of school. In addition, students will need to acquire Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury and Night by Elie Wiesel. These books will be read as a class later in the year.

8th Grade Math

Students will represent, apply, and analyze proportional relationships; use expressions and equations to describe and solve problems involving rational numbers including the Pythagorean Theorem; represent linear functions to solve problems; and use data representations of association, center, and variation to make inferences.

Pre-AP 8th Grade Math

8th Grade Pre-AP math is an advanced course that uses the 8th grade math curriculum. This course follows the same scope and sequence as the regular 8th grade math class but at a more in-depth and rigorous level. Entry into this course is based on math screener scores, state assessment scores, classroom grades, and teacher recommendation. Students are not required to take Pre-AP 7th grade math as a pre-requisite.

Pre-AP Algebra 1 (High School Credit)

Students study symbolic reasoning, functional relationships and representations, problem-solving concepts, and properties of equality. Students will formulate and solve equations, inequalities, and linear systems. Due to state requirements, students in this course will take the Algebra 1 EOC exam. Entry into this course is based on student’s grades in Pre-AP Pre-Algebra I, math screener scores, state assessment scores, the Iowa Algebra Aptitude Test, and teacher recommendation. Students are required to take 7th grade Pre-AP Pre-Algebra I as a pre-requisite.

Science Students will study safety, atoms and the periodic table, chemical reactions and equations, force, motion, energy, sun, earth, moon systems, stars and galaxies, plate tectonics, meteorology, and organisms and the environments.

Pre-AP Science In addition to the science curriculum, students are required to complete strenuous writing assignments and utilize high level math skills. Participation in science fair is optional.

US History Students study the political, economic, religious, and social events and issues related to the colonial and revolutionary eras, the creation and ratification of the U.S. Constitution, challenges of the early republic, the Age of Jackson, westward expansion, sectionalism, Civil War, and Reconstruction.

Pre-AP US History Assignments in the Pre-AP History class will require more critical thinking and in-depth analysis than those in academic US history. In addition, more independent work is expected to be completed outside of class. Participation in history fair is optional.

ENDORSEMENT ACADEMY ELECTIVES

Arts & Humanities Endorsement [pic]

ART AND ADVANCED ART

Students will be introduced to a variety of art mediums including drawing, painting, clay, printmaking techniques, perspective, sculpture, collage, mixed-media, and further craft projects. Students will learn historically based art techniques which include the Elements of Art and the Principles of Design. Art is open to both 7th and 8th grade students. There is a $5 art supply fee per year. 7th grade students who successfully complete Art who wish to take Art in the 8th grade will be required to take Advanced Art. Advanced Art students explore the various mediums on a more advanced and in-depth level.

BAND

Students must have completed a year of beginning band or had private lessons to reach a level of proficiency on their respective instruments.  All prospective band students who meet the above criteria will be auditioned and placed into one of our performance bands.  Members of the performance bands are given the opportunity to perform at concerts,  pep rallies, prepare for UIL competitions, and prepare entries in solo and ensemble competition. We strongly encourage all students who have been in band previously to continue in the MMS Band program. All the Middle School bands will go on a day trip in the spring which includes a performance at a festival/clinic and a fun activity determined by the directors. There may be extra rehearsals required outside the regular school day from time to time and there will be requirements to meet in order to attend the trip. We encourage band students to participate in athletics and other school activities and do our best to avoid scheduling conflicts. If you have any questions, please contact Dawn Henry at dawn.henry@. We look forward to having you in MMS BAND!

8th GRADE JAZZ BAND

This is an advanced enrichment course dedicated to the study and performance of the uniquely American art form, Jazz. Only highly qualified, dedicated students will be accepted by audition only. Students will learn to perform music from the earliest jazz recordings in the 1930s to the more recent modern, Latin, rock and funk styles. These students may perform at pep rallies, other school events, and at concerts along with the MMS Band. Students must be a member of the MMS Band or MMS Orchestra to enroll in this class. If you are interested, please see Mrs. Henry.

ORCHESTRA

Students must have completed a year of 6th grade orchestra or have consistently taken private lessons to reach a level of proficiency on their instrument. We strongly encourage incoming 7th and 8th grade students who have participated in orchestra to continue their studies in the orchestra program. Only students wishing to perform in the Chamber Orchestra will need to audition, and all other students will be placed in Symphonic and Concert Orchestras according to instrumentation. Students are expected to perform at all school concerts, prepare for UIL Concert and Sight Reading Competition, and prepare entries in Solo and Ensemble competition in the late spring. All MMS orchestras will take a day trip in the spring to a rehearsal clinic followed by a fun activity determined by the directors. Students will be expected to participate in some after school rehearsals when necessary for All-Region auditions and UIL preparation. We encourage orchestra students to participate in athletics and other school activities and we communicate closely with coaches and sponsors in order to avoid scheduling conflicts. If you have any questions, please contact Terence Guerrero at terence.guerrero@.

CHOIR

There are six choirs open to any student. They are (2) 7th grade girls’, (2) 7th and 8th grade boys’, and 8th grade girls’ choirs. The choirs present three major concerts a year and attendance at each is required. Our singers also participate in Solo Festival, U.I.L. Contest Choir, All-Region Choir, and Pizzazz, our spring talent show. There are specific academic and performance requirements of students who audition for Region or who participate in UIL Contest. There will be extra rehearsals required outside the regular school day during the spring for UIL events. Choir dresses are available to female students for purchase in the fall and must be machine washed and returned after the final concert. Boys’ uniforms are purchased by the student. Cost of required performance apparel is approximately $35.00-$40.00.  Boys’ uniforms may be donated to the program if desired. There is financial help for anyone needing it.

PANTHER CHORALE

Panther Chorale, being an auditioned, select performing group, is designed and intended as a full year elective. We expect all students who are selected for the Panther Chorale to make a year-long commitment to this program.

Panther Chorale is by audition only for 8th grade students. It is a select chorus which requires a higher level of student discipline, both inside/outside the classroom, and musicianship. Students are required to participate in All-Region auditions, U.I.L. Contest, and Pizzazz. In the audition, the student will sing his/her voice part on a specified piece of music that he/she prepares and then will sight-sing using hand signs. Auditions are held in April/May. There will be additional rehearsals required outside of the regular school day for UIL Contest preparation. The choir goes on a day trip for performance purposes in the spring. All members must participate in the above listed events, as well as be passing all classes in order to be included on the day trip. Choir dresses are required and available for purchase in the fall and need to be machine washed and returned after the final concert. Boys are required to wear the selected boys’ choir uniform and purchase it on their own. Cost of required clothing is approximately $35-$40.00.

SPANISH I (High School Credit)

This course develops the student’s ability in speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Special emphasis is placed on vocabulary and correct usage. Understanding of the Spanish-speaking people and their culture is emphasized.

High school credit for Spanish I can be earned at the Middle School as an 8th grade elective. Students are expected to complete the entire course in one year, and the class pace is the same as in the high school. Spanish is a demanding class and consists of homework on a daily basis, quizzes, and tests on a regular basis, and requires students to study nightly. At the successful completion of the course work and final exam for Spanish I, a high school credit is given. The class is listed as a pass/fail grade on the high school transcript, and the grade is not figured into the student’s high school grade point average (GPA). Midway Middle School Spanish teachers will recommend students with a strong B average in Spanish I, to take Spanish II as freshmen in high school. Students who barely pass Middle School Spanish are encouraged to repeat Spanish I in high school to ensure maximum success in Spanish II--since high school graduation plans now require two years of the same foreign language.

THEATRE

The focus of Theatre will be the development of the total theatre student, which will include the development of the student’s personal resources, self-confidence, and ability to work well with others. Students will learn how to build an ensemble, observe people and places more closely, move expressively, and become more aware of their senses. They will learn basic acting skills such as improvisation, characterization, preparing a role, and stage movement. The students will be guided through various aspects of the production process—from rehearsal to backstage and theatre education.

ADVANCED THEATRE

The prerequisite for Advanced Theatre is Introduction to Theatre—which is offered to

7th grade students. Advanced Theatre is open to 8th grade students only. While Introduction to Theatre covers all aspects of theatre arts and the stage, Advanced Theatre will focus primarily on performances. Students will audition, rehearse, and perform onstage as well as backstage.

VIDEO PRODUCTION/KMTV

8th grade students apply and interview for this placement. Students produce the announcements as a mini-news program. Please do not write this elective on your choice sheet. If you are selected, your lowest priority elective will be replaced with Video Production. See Mrs. Schoenfeld for an application.

YEARBOOK

8th grade students apply and interview for this class. Students will produce the school yearbook, which includes photography, layout, and data collection. Please do not write this elective on your choice sheet. If you are selected, your lowest priority elective will be replaced with Yearbook. See Mrs. Ray for an application.

Business & Industry Endorsement

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AGRICULTURE SCIENCE ORIENTATION

This course is an introductory course designed to expose students to varied aspects of agriculture science. A focus for this course will be hands on activities involving plants, leadership, small shop projects, and animal science. This course is intended for 7th grade students.

PRINCIPLES OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD & NATURAL RESOURCES

(High School credit)

This is a comprehensive course designed to introduce beginning students to global agriculture. It includes an overview of agricultural career development, leadership, communications, personal finance, animal and plant science, and agriculture mechanics. This course serves as a prerequisite for all other Agricultural Science courses. The FFA, a co-curricular student leadership organization, is an integral part of the curriculum, and students are encouraged to join. This course is open to 8th grade students only.

PRINCIPLES OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (High School Credit)

This course provides a hands-on approach for learning word processing, spreadsheet, database and desktop publishing using the Microsoft Office Suite. Students will also prepare slide presentations using PowerPoint and design web pages. This is an introductory course designed to prepare students for the demands of their education pursuits both in high school and beyond. This course is open to 7th & 8th grade students.

Public Service Endorsement

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PALS

Peer Assistance & Leadership is an elective for 8th graders. PALS are trained to work with other students who have specific needs and act as role models to younger students. PALS work with Special Education students, two elementary schools, and receive mediation training. PALS also work with new students, serve as ambassadors, assist administrators and office staff, tutor, and assist teachers. Some of the criteria to qualify include kindness, willingness to work with others and most importantly, the ability to work unsupervised. Most of the PALS activities occur during the school day. This elective is offered to 8th grade only. Please do not write this elective on your choice sheet. If you are selected, your lowest priority elective will be replaced with PALS. Mrs. Hesser will be conducting two meetings after school in the spring semester to explain the PALS selection process—please watch and listen to KMTV announcements to find out the dates of the meetings.

PANTHER PATHWAYS

Panther Pathways is a required course for all 8th grade students. The class focuses on career exploration and planning, health, and technology applications. Students prepare their 4 year plan and make course selections for high school through Career Cruising software during the spring semester.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH (Application Required)

Community Outreach is one of the newest electives offered here at MMS. It is the only Community Outreach class offered in the entire district. Community Outreach is a great opportunity to teach, encourage and train our students on how to be responsible volunteers at our school and out in our community. Our purpose is to encourage our students to develop a sense of responsibility for others and to help our students foster an understanding of the value of volunteerism and the rewards of helping others.

Students must complete a total of 20 hours of volunteer service throughout the course of the school year. All students will receive a Community Outreach form where they will log hours of service. This form is also included on the teacher’s webpage for your convenience. The class will also use an app on their iPads that will help track hours. The teacher will assist students throughout the year with volunteering ideas, but it is the responsibility of the student to find areas of need where they can help. Most of the volunteer opportunities will NOT be supervised by the teacher and will usually occur after school hours off campus.

Students interested in taking this class MUST BE RECOMMENDED by their 6th grade teachers, counselors and/or principals before being entered on the class schedule. Students must be respectful, responsible and trustworthy. Students must have acceptable behavior. This class will work with diverse groups of people of all ages and will NOT always be directly supervised. Students interested in signing up for this class will complete a questionnaire and essay that will be reviewed by a Teacher Selection Committee at the middle school. The requirements and eligibility will be determined based on grades, conduct, demerits and teacher evaluations. These are some of the components that will be considered in the selection process.

Community Outreach is an amazing class that offers amazing opportunities to serve others. The focus is to generate positive school-community relations and relations within the school. It is a WIN-WIN situation for all involved and the students will experience an AWESOME feeling of people helping people. Together, we can ALL make a difference.

Science, Technology, Engineering & Math Endorsement (STEM)

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GATEWAY TO TECHNOLOGY (GTT) (High School Credit - .5)

Gateway to Technology is an activities, project, and problem-based learning program designed to challenge and engage the natural curiosity of middle school students. GTT helps students develop foundational knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for high school Project Lead the Way “Pathway to Engineering” classes. GTT promotes communication and collaboration by emphasizing a team approach to learning. This course consists of the following units: Design and Modeling, Automation and Robotics, Magic of Electrons, and Science of Technology. Concurrent enrollment in Algebra I is recommended but not required. This course is open to 7th and 8th grade students and earns high school credit.

ROBOTICS Robotics is a curriculum designed to teach students the basic understanding of gears, programming, and engineering with Lego Mindstorms Robots. Students will learn basic programming and design. Students will also then be required to organized into teams of no more than ten students. The teams will compete in the First Lego League Competition.

The FLL competition is an International competition that begins at the regional level for qualification to compete at the state level and then on to Nationals if the team is first in the state of Texas. There are three areas of the competition. First, are the Core Values. This area teaches students teaming. Second, robot builds and programming, and third, a high type science fair project developed and presented to the judges based on the FLL theme for that year. Students will also learn about Robotics, Rocketry, and Aerospace in the spring.

CODING

Students will be exploring, at the introductory level, technological concepts and themes. Once students have successfully completed the course, they will have had the opportunity to hone their skills in the following areas: basic programming, collaboration and teamwork to solve problems, computational and abstract thinking, core computer science concepts, creating and manipulating graphics, creating (not simply using) technologies, critical thinking skills, ethical and social issues in computing,  learning and practicing in a community of learners, and preparation for 21st century jobs. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts one in every two STEM jobs in the country will be in computing occupations, with more than 150,000 job openings annually making it one of the fastest growing occupations in the United States.

GENERAL ELECTIVES

AVID (Application Required)

Grade Level 7-8 (1 year)

AVID is a college readiness program focused on helping students achieve their goal of attending and graduating from college. Students considered for AVID are bright, hardworking students who have been identified as students who can succeed at the Pre-AP/AP level and in college. AVID students might be underserved in the college system, first-generation college students or students that have been recommended by their teacher as a student who would benefit from the college readiness support AVID provides. The AVID curriculum focuses on writing, inquiry, collaboration, reading, organization, time-management and study skills. Held within the regular school day, this class provides support, academic monitoring and tutoring. Students who enroll in AVID are required to enroll in and complete at least one advanced placement course each year (ex. Pre-AP, AP, Dual Credit).

CHEERLEADING

Cheerleading is only open to 8th grade students who participated in Pep Squad in the 7th grade. The selection process occurs during the spring of the 7th grade year. The requirements and eligibility for the selection process will be discussed during the 7th grade year and may include grades, conduct, demerits, teacher evaluations, and a skill/ability/tryout component. There is a high cost for cheerleading (approximately $900), which includes a complete custom uniform, shoes, bag, pompoms, camp wear, and a 4-day mandatory summer camp. Fundraising opportunities will be available. Selected students will be enrolled in the cheerleading class as one of their electives.

STUDENT ASSISTANT – 8TH GRADE ONLY

Student assistants must be approved by administration prior to selection. Student assistants will serve in the front office, library, and other locations in the school as needed. Students may not choose their assignment. Approval for the position is based on grades, attendance, conduct, etc.

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Athletics and Physical Education (STEM)

THESE CLASSES ARE DESIGNATED AS ALTHLETICS AND REQUIRE A PHYSICAL EXAM FOR PARTICIPATION

Due to safety concerns, no athlete may leave the campus after school and walk to eating establishments. Parents may pick their students up at the conclusion of school and have them back for game time.

BASKETBALL – 7th GRADE BOYS

All participants must have a physical. Physicals are offered along with the High School Basketball program. Your personal physician can also do the physical on the school’s form. Uniforms are provided, except for shoes. Lockers are provided at the school. Each participant must have passing grades and good conduct. Everyone must go through tryouts. Cuts will be made after a three day comprehensive tryout. Due to roster constraints, 30 seventh grade boys will be chosen for the team. There will be an option of purchasing a team T-shirt, but it is not required. During the season, practice begins at 6:45 a.m. and goes through first period. Game days are usually on Thursdays, unless otherwise noted on the schedule. Tournaments are on the weekend and begin on Fridays. Students that do not make the team will be in PE or football offseason until basketball again becomes off season. All students are also urged to attend the Midway Basketball Summer Camp.

BASKETBALL – 8th GRADE BOYS

All participants must have a physical. Physicals are offered along with the High School Basketball Program. Your personal physician can also do the physical on the school’s form. Uniforms are provided except for shoes. Lockers are provided at the school. Each participant must have passing grades and good conduct. Everyone must go through tryouts. Cuts will be made after a three day comprehensive tryout. Due to roster constraints, 30 eighth grade boys will be chosen for the team. There will be an option of purchasing a team T-shirt, but it is not required. Basketball for 8th grade boys meets during 8th period. During the season, practice runs from 8th period until 5:00 - 5:30 p.m. Students in basketball class who do not make the team will be moved to PE or football offseason. All students are also urged to attend the Midway Basketball Summer Camp.

BASKETBALL - 7th & 8th GRADE GIRLS

All athletes must have a physical. Uniforms will be provided by the school except for shoes. An undershirt can be worn, if wanted. It must be blue and is not provided. Practice clothes must be purchased at the start of the year. They are $20 for the shirt & shorts (blues & grays). They will be available at schedule pick-up and when school starts (they must be purchased by the end of the 2nd week of school). Most games are on Thursday, unless noted on the schedule. Tournaments are on the weekend and begin on Fridays, unless noted on the schedule. A schedule will be provided. Practice will be outside of the school day, and attendance is required. Students must be passing all classes and have good conduct. Students will need a combination lock. Participation in Summer Camp/League is not required but strongly recommended.

CROSS COUNTRY

Cross Country is for 7th and 8th grade boys and girls. Cross Country season takes place during the fall semester. Boys and girls practice and attend meets together. The runners compete against other runners by running a two- mile course. Athletes must have a physical. Athletes will run 10-15 miles per week at practice. Students will not be cut from the team; however, runners must qualify to participate in each meet. Students in other sports can participate in Cross Country. Uniforms are provided by the school.

FOOTBALL- 7th GRADE BOYS

Information will be handed out at registration. Each athlete must have a physical. A Saturday in the spring will be scheduled for physicals for the following school year. Cleats will be sold at the time of the physical by B&B Athletics. Practice Packs will also be sold at the time of the physical for approximately $6.00 - $10.00. Practice Packs include socks, mouthpiece, and jock. The Practice Packs are optional. All other equipment will be provided to students except cleats. Football games are on Mondays. Football practice is from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. All football players are on a team. Participation in Midway Football Camps is not required. After football season, the students will choose between basketball or off-season football. Soccer and basketball overlap. All 7th and 8th grade football players that want to play basketball will go to basketball class. These classes are at the same time. This will be at the conclusion of football season. If the student does not make the basketball team, he will return to football off-season. Home Games: Athletes may leave after their game. Away Games: All athletes will ride on the bus to the site of the contest. Students will be given time schedules. After the athletes’ games, they may ride home with their parents only. No athlete will get a ride with other parents. Concession stands are available so that the athletes may purchase food. Money may be sent with the athlete. The time the bus arrives home will depend on the length of the game and distance traveled. The phone will be available to everyone. Directions to away games will be provided.

FOOTBALL- 8th GRADE BOYS

To participate in 8th grade football, an athlete must have been in 7th grade athletics unless arrangements were made by a coach. Each athlete must have a physical. A Saturday in the spring will be scheduled for physicals for the following school year. Athletes may buy Practice Packs and cleats from B&B or on their own. The cost of Practice Packs from B&B will be $6.00 - $10.00. Football games will be on Tuesdays. Practice will be after school from 2:30 - 5:30 p.m. Home Games - Athletes may leave after their game. Away games - All athletes will ride on the bus to the site of the contest. Athletes will be given a time schedule. After the athletes’ games, they may ride home with their parents only. No athlete will get a ride with other parents. Concession stands are available so that the athletes may purchase food. Money may be sent with the athlete. The time the bus arrives home will depend on the length of the game and distance traveled. The phone will be available to everyone. Directions to away games will be provided. More information will be handed out at registration.

GOLF TEAM

Golf is open to 7th and 8th grade boys and girls. This is a spring semester sport requiring a physical. Tryouts will be held for the team. The team meets after school from 4-5:30 a minimum of two days per week. Practice is held at a local golf course. Parents must provide transportation. Students must provide their own equipment.

OFF CAMPUS PE

Students involved in high level athletics performance programs outside of school can fulfill one year of the Middle School physical education requirement. The program must be approved by the administration. For more information and to receive an application, please see the grade level counselor.

SOCCER – BOYS

Soccer is for 7th and 8th grade boys. To participate in soccer you must be in either the soccer class or the football class. Athletes will have tryouts in November the following week once football season is completed. To be on the soccer team you must have a physical, travel card, & drug-testing form turned in. All athletes must provide their own work-out clothes, shin-guards, & cleats to participate. Students are taught basic skills, rules, knowledge of the game, conditioning and sportsmanship. Students must maintain passing grades to participate in games. There may be "cuts" from the class based on ability depending on the number of students and available staff.  Soccer uniforms will be provided by the school.  Practices will be Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday after school until 5:00. All Junior High Soccer games will be on Thursday's at Midway's Rice Field or High School Field. No Practice on Friday's​.

SOCCER – GIRLS

The girls’ soccer class includes both 7th and 8th graders.  Before the start of the 3rd six weeks, the class will be limited to a maximum of thirty 7th graders and thirty 8th graders. Players who do not make the first two rounds of the offseason cut will be changed out of the soccer athletic period.  No player will be able to participate in try-outs without a completed Midway Athletic Packet, which is due on Friday of the first week of school. Students that have not obtained a physical by the 5th class day will be changed out of the soccer athletic period.  Players will provide cleats, running shoes, shin-guards, socks and athletic attire. If a player does not have cleats, tennis shoes will suffice until teams are chosen. Opportunity to play the game is created in a variety of ways to develop a better understanding of the foundation of the game and rules of soccer. This also develops a team mentality and good sportsmanship. The athlete must be able to participate in a challenging conditioning program.  A try-out for the traveling team will be made in the spring after track season ends, and this will be limited to the players in the class and any other girl that is involved in girls ‘volleyball or basketball.

TENNIS TEAM

The Tennis Team tryouts are in the spring before entering 7th grade. The Tennis Team plays matches on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Tennis Team T-shirts are approximately $15.00. Students will need additional money for food and snacks on trips. Students will participate in five matches in the fall and five matches in the spring. The matches last from about 2:30 until 9:00 p.m. Physicals are required for all tennis players. There is an intermediate team and an advanced team.

TRACK - 7th & 8th GRADE BOYS and GIRLS

Track takes place after school. There is not a class during the day for track. All athletes must have a physical. Track is not required for athletes. Track uniforms will be provided by the school. Most students buy their own running spikes. Track practices are after school from 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. A track schedule will be provided. Any student can participate in the track program. Students do not have to be enrolled in an athletic class to participate in track.

VOLLEYBALL

Volleyball is for girls in 7th and 8th grade. All players must go through tryouts. A limited number of players make the team. Players must maintain a passing grade in all classes, and conduct must be acceptable. Students must wear cross trainer or volleyball shoes. Practice clothes will be available to purchase for both 7th and 8th grade girls after tryouts once the teams are established. Workout clothes (blues & grays) will be on sale for $20.00. Practice for 7th grade girls is from 6:30am-7:45am. Practice for 8th grade girls is after school from 3:40pm-5:00pm. Game days are usually on Thursdays. Volleyball and Basketball can be taken together. Physicals are required for all students and will be offered at Midway Highs School during the spring prior to volleyball enrollment, or you may visit your family practitioner. Participation in Summer Camp is not required but strongly recommended. Students will also need to bring a combination lock to secure belongings.

THESE CLASSES ARE DESIGNATED AS PHYSICAL EDUCATION COURSES AND DO NOT REQUIRE A PHYSICAL EXAM FOR PARTICIPATION:

PHYSICAL EDUCATION-BEGINNING TENNIS

Beginning tennis is a physical education class with an emphasis in basic tennis skills. Students will learn the basics of playing tennis, tennis style games and activities, as well as work toward physical fitness preparation for better health. Tennis equipment (racquets and tennis balls) will be provided. No previous instruction is necessary. Students will learn fundamental skills as well as how to keep score and play matches. On bad weather days, beginning tennis students will be provided an alternate inside physical activity. This is not an introduction to team tennis course.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Students will learn an appreciation for teamwork, fair play, and health-related fitness. Students will engage in a variety of fitness-related activities which may include volleyball, flag football, basketball, tennis, soccer, softball and other recreational games. In addition, students will learn about the different types of aerobic activities and strength exercises to increase personal endurance and overall physical fitness. There are separate physical education classes for boys and girls.

PANTHER FITNESS

Panther Fitness (physical education) promotes lifetime individual, sport and recreational activities while providing an opportunity for an in-depth study of aerobic and strength training exercise. Students will explore a variety of workouts that include health related fitness activities (cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility and body composition), team sports and individual or dual sports. A variety of strategies, including technology will be used to track nutritional, caloric and other health information. Ongoing assessments will include both written and performance based skill evaluations.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE EDUCATION

Outdoor Adventure is a class that features many different activities that will get you prepared to have tons of fun in the outdoors! Some of the activities that will be covered in this class include the following: archery, camping, outdoor games, angler education, boater education, outdoor cooking, geocaching/GPS, orienteering and survival skills.

Additional Athletic Information

7th Grade Orientation Information – Athletics

1. Anyone interested in participating in athletics must have a completed pre-participation packet along with a physical on file with the MMS athletic trainer prior to participation. Athletic physicals will be offered through the district for a fee of $15. Check the athletic website for more information and dates.

2. Athletic Periods – 7th grade boys have athletics first period and will work out before school and through first period. 7th grade girl’s athletics is fifth period and will work out before and/or after school as well as during their athletic period. 8th grade boys have athletics 8th period, 8th grade girls have athletics 7th period. This is subject to change.

3. Tryouts – Volleyball, Soccer, Basketball, Golf, and Tennis will have tryouts. Athletes will be evaluated on skill in each sport as well as attitude, grades, and behavior. The coaches of each sport are responsible for deciding who makes the team. Tryouts for these programs will be communicated throughout the school year as the seasons approach.

4. Locker Rooms – Athletes are responsible for locking their locker each day. Locker room safety and security is a priority and we do our best to ensure that all locker room doors are locked throughout the day. However, it is always the responsibility of each athlete to lock their individual locker each day. They will be provided with a combination lock.

5. Equipment – all equipment that is issued to athletes is property of MISD and must be returned at the end of the season /school year. If the equipment is lost or damaged, it will be your responsibility to replace the item. Workout clothes (shorts and t-shirts) can be purchased at the beginning of every school year and belong to the student. These do not have to be turned in at the end of the school year. Each sport will have more specific information on equipment.

6. Pre-season Parent Meeting – Each sport will hold a pre-season parent meeting. This is vital because they give out all important information, dates, and sport specific information. Parents need to make every effort to attend these meetings. Times/dates will be posted and communicated well in advance. Athletes need not attend these meetings.

7. Drug testing – all students involved in extracurricular activities in MISD are subject to a random drug test held 6 to 7 times throughout the school year. Our drug testing program is MISD school board policy and can be found on the district’s website. An outside, independent drug testing company will collect the samples, test the samples, and notify MISD of the results. This program is intended to encourage our students to make good choices and is not used as a way to “catch” students.

Procedure:

A) Total pool of students is sent to drug testing company by Middle School Athletic Coordinator

B) Drug testing company sends back their random selection of 10-15% of the pool

C) On the day of the test, students are called out of class to report to the drug testing area – any work they miss is excused.

D) Neither students nor parents can be notified in advance about their selection in the drug test. Confidentiality is vital to ensure a valid test.

E) Once students check in with MISD staff, they report to the drug testing company employees to submit their sample.

F) Students are given 2 hours to produce a sample. The drug testing company employees will use a variety of tactics to help them out. Drinking water, walking, and jumping jacks could be used as ways to help students.

G) Students report back to class after producing their sample

H) Drug Testing company contacts Middle School Athletic Coordinator with results and MSAC will contact parents if there are any positive results.

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MIDWAY MIDDLE SCHOOL

MISD Endorsement Academies

o Arts & Humanities

o Business & Industry

o Public Services

o Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM)

o Multidisciplinary

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