PARENT REQUEST FOR CHANGE OF TEACHER/PLACEMENT
In that the priority for placement is the appropriate educational challenge for the student, parents requesting a change of teacher assignment are requested to make their request in writing based primarily on the educational reasons. Such parent requests fall into two categories: those before the school year begins or during the first week of school and those requests made during the rest of the year.
- All requests must be made in writing by the parent.
- The request should be primarily founded on educational needs as set forth in the handbook.
- Written requests are then reviewed by the guidance counselor with faculty and administration input. The request is processed with further details or input from parents as needed. A decision to keep the original placement, a different placement, some combination, or the parents’ specific requests will then be made and the parent informed. Requests by parents for a change of class or assignment before the beginning of school or during the first few days of the year will be reviewed only after the student has been in class for ten school days. This allows time for some assimilation of new students and for teacher assessment of each student’s current educational difficulties, strengths, and needs which may have changed since he/she was in school the previous June.
When a student needs to see the nurse, he/she must have a note from his/her teacher or the office. If a student needs to be dismissed because of sickness or injury, the parent will be called. Parents will either pick up their child at school or provide appropriate alternative transportation home. Should your child have a medical condition that the school should be aware of, the parent is to notify the office in writing.
EACH AND EVERY ABSENCE REQUIRES A NOTE FROM THE PARENT OR A CERTIFICATE FROM THE FAMILY PHYSICIAN.
According to school district health regulations, your child will be required to have a certificate of readmission from your family physician AFTER HE OR SHE HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED OR AWAY FROM SCHOOL WITH A CONTAGIOUS DISEASE. Some of these contagious diseases include:
Chicken Pox; Infectious Hepatitis; German Measles; Mumps; Strep/sore throat; Impetigo
Pupils absent five (5) days or more with a non-contagious disease are readmitted when accompanied by a certificate from the family physician. No student will be readmitted without this certificate. Students entering school for the first time or transferring to Bardstown Middle School must present proof of a physical examination and immunization.
Whenever possible, medication should be administered in the home. Parents who have a pupil who is to receive medication during the school day must coordinate with the nurse.
Note: no hospital or physician will administer treatment, other than minimal life-saving care, without direct parental permission. Thus it is incumbent upon parents to provide emergency telephone numbers of where they can be reached at any given time during the school day to assure proper emergency care for their child. By the same token, a neighbor or local relative(s) who can be contacted to care for you child’s nonemergency needs is also imperative, since the school does not have a sick roon. Each child is sent home when sick. Please, for your child’s sake and quick recovery, be prepared for immediate pick-up from school when your child becomes ill or injured.
(Please give special attention to completing all emergency and medical information.)
Students will not be released from school except in cases of emergency. All work missed by students must be made up as soon as possible after returning to school. Excessive absence often results in poor work. When an absence is necessary, the parent of guardian should notify the school telling the reason for the student’s absence. It is the student’s responsibility to make up work due following an absence. Steps to follow when absent from school:
1. When student is not in attendance at all, the parents will notify the office by telephone before 8:30a.m.
informing the school of the situation.
2. Parent or guardian writes a note giving name, date, days absent, and the reason for the absence.
3. Student presents note to the office to obtain an admit slip for class.
4. Student makes immediate plans to do all make-up work due to absence.
TARDINESS – THE SCHOOL DAY STARTS AT 8:25 A.M.
Students late for school must have a note explaining the tardiness, signed by the parent or guardian. They must first report tot he office and sign in before going to their classroom. If a student arrives at school without a note, school officials will assume the tardy is unexcused. Each semester, every third unexcused tardy will result in a one-hour detention. If a student is late to class without an excuse, the teacher will deal with the problem directly. Frequent offenders will be reported to the principal.
EARLY DISMISSAL OF INDIVIDUAL STUDENTS REQUESTED BY PARENT
Except in cases of illness, early dismissal from school will be granted only on the presentation of a note from the parent or guardian. The note must be left with the secretary in the office before school in the morning. A student being dismissed early MUST be signed out by the parent in the office. Early dismissal is discouraged since it interrupts the student’s learning. The parent is also communicating to the child that something is considered more important than school. Obviously, haircuts, orthodontist, dentist, and similar routine chores should take place on non-school time.
No student will be released from school to anyone other than his/her parent or legal guardian without prior written authorization. This protective procedure also includes transportation home at the end of the school day by means other than the assigned bus or established means. Any parent or designated surrogate desiring to have a child released during the school day must come into the school office, in person, to sign out his/her child.
DRESS CODE POLICY EFFECTIVE 8-1-99
In accordance with our overall mission, the professional staff in the Bardstown Schools believes that appearance is important to the educational environment of our students. The intent of this policy is to promote community standards and school pride by requiring a dress code* that enhances school safety, equity, and is cost-effective for students, staff, and parents. As educators, we believe that students should understand and appreciate the proper standards of dress and responsibility, which will often be required of them, when they enter the work force. While the policy is flexible enough to allow for personal expression, it does follow the standards of workplace attire agreed upon by a committee of teachers, parents, and administrators. The Bardstown Schools remain committed to developing individuals who are well prepared for the demands of the future, including the expectations of appropriate attire. Therefore, the following dress code is required for all students in the Bardstown City School (K-12) effective August 1, 1999.
1. GENERAL EXPECTATIONS
Appropriate attire is expected for all that attend Bardstown Schools. A school environment is not, nor should be, as casual as a social outing. A certain degree of decorum is expected. Listed below are the general expectations for this policy.
- Any apparel that calls attention to itself will be responded to as deemed necessary.
- Students may not carry or wear anything that advertises drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products, or that promotes/suggests lewd messages.
- Clothing must not have holes, tears, and must have finished hems (no cut-offs or frayed edges.)
- Sunglasses will not be worn in the school building.
- No head coverings are to be worn in the school building. (Exception given for religious or medical reasons.)
- No bandannas, combs (picks), or chains are to be worn in the school building.
- No bare midriffs, or crop tops are to be worn in the school building.
SPECIFIC EXPECTATIONS
Colors: White, Gold, Bardsotwn Purple,and Navy (dark blue)
Types: Polo Shirts with fold down collars, long or short sleeves. NO sleeveless. Polo shirts are to be worn tucked in, all the way around, with belts showing.
Oxford-type dress shirts, short or long sleeve, NO sleeveless, must have a fold down collar. Oxford-type shirts must be worn tucked in, all the way around, with belt showing. Turtlenecks must have a fold down collar.
Sweatshirts/sweaters/sweater vests:
Colors: May be white, Bardstown Purple, Gold, and Navy.
Types: All sweatshirts must be worn with fold down collared uniform shirts or turtleneck underneath. No hooded sweatshirts. Sweater/sweater vest (v-neck, crew neck, or cardigan) must be worn with a fold down collard uniform shirt or turtleneck underneath.
Colors: Khaki (tan), Navy, and Black
Types: Slacks will be twill or chino fabrics (no denim/jeans) with plain or pleated front. Elastic waist slacks may be worn. No sweat/nylon jogging pants are allowed. Pants are to be worn at the waist, not sagging. Pants are not to have stripes or embroidery patterns. No pants with cargo pockets will be allowed.
Colors: Khaki (tan), Navy, and Black
Types: Skirts must meet the required length (4 inches from middle of knee). If skirt has a slit, the slit may not be shorter than the required length. Skirts are not to have stripes or embroidery patterns.
Colors: Khaki (tan), Navy, and Black
Types: Shorts must meet the required length (5-inch in-seam). The same color/fabric standards as apply to slacks.
Coats/Jackets are NOT to be worn in the classroom. Hats/Gloves must be removed upon entering the building. All shoes must be worn with socks or hose. Sandals with a strap around the ankle may be worn without socks or stockings. Key chains are not to be worn, and must remain in students’ book bags and/or pockets.
A belt must be visibly worn and buckled with any garment and within belt loops. Belt and buckles must be of standard size (not to exceed 2 inches).
Stripes, plaids, embroidery, or sleeveless attire are not allowed on any shirt, blouse, sweater, skirt, or shorts. All clothing items are SOLID colors.
Approved purple and gold Bardstown Spirit wear may be worn.
*The term Dress Code is used because of the following reasons:
· A dress code allows parents and students to purchase their school clothes at any location as long as they meet the general and specific expectations.
· A uniform is not being implemented based on the
definition of uniform. A uniform would require all students to purchase the exact clothing attire from the same manufacturer.
Listed below are the general expectations for any out-of-uniform day:
- Belts are to be worn and shirts tucked in.
- No sagging pants.
- Students may not wear anything that advertises drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products, or promotes/suggests lewd messages.
- No camouflage apparel of any kind.
- No spandex or lycra apparel that clings tightly to the body.
- Skirt and short length are the same as regular uniform policy.
- Clothing must not have holes, tears, and must have finished hems.
- No sleeveless shirts.
- No bare midriffs or crop tops are to be worn.
- No hats.
The principal and assistant principal retain discretionary powers as to acceptable, modest appearance within these guidelines.
Students are not allowed to use a school telephone except in emergencies and with a note from their teacher and a valid reason. Students desiring to schedule visits from friends for after school or overnight stays, must make such arrangements from home.
Teachers’ lounge and workrooms are off-limits to students at all times, unless the student is under direct adult supervision
TELEPHONE MESSAGES
Neither students nor teachers are called out of their class to answer the telephone. Parents who have to transmit a message to their child or child’s teacher should call the school secretary at 331-8803, prior to 1:00 p.m., whereupon the message will be placed in the mailbox for the teacher to pick up. Students will be called to the office at 1:00 p.m. during announcements for messages.
Lost and found items are kept in the office. Students and parents are encouraged to check for lost items promptly, since the accumulating items must occasionally be disposed of during the school year.
Students are expected to behave in an appropriate manner at all school-sponsored functions, field trips, team travel, sports events, contests, and after-school programs. These activities are viewed as an integral part of the child’s education and are included in all discipline policy and procedures.
Typically, rubber bands, balloons, gum, candy, radio, cassette players, CD players, cell phone, knives, toys, and related contraband have no real educational value in a school setting. In that these compete for the students’ attention or present a safety problem, they are not allowed at school and will be confiscated. Parents are requested to actively support this school policy by not allowing their child to bring such items to school. All areas used by students such as lockers, desks, and all other storage on school property are considered to be in joint custody of the student and school personnel. Such areas and student possessions are available for inspection and search at any time by school personnel without prior notice or student permission. School personnel will seize any controlled substances, drug paraphernalia, or other contraband. Beepers, cell phones, and other electrical communication devices must be turned off and out of sight while on campus or will be confiscated and will be returned to parent upon parent coming to school to pick up.
Any student who is a part of an illegal act or is in possession of illegal contraband will face criminal action on behalf of the appropriate agency as provided under school district policy and state law.
BARDSTOWN MIDDLE SCHOOL
SITE-BASED DECISION-MAKING COUNCIL
Our middle school is proud to be under the site-based council approach to education and school operation. Our first council was organized during the 1992-93 school year. It meets monthly, typically on the second Monday, at 4:30 p.m. in the library. Our council actively works to include and involve parents in all aspects of school and council matters.
Our site-based council has approved a specific lock for all student lockers, both academic and athletic. Each student is to acquire his/her lock(s) from the office. The student will pay a $3.00 rental fee the year. All locks will be turned in to the student’s homeroom teacher at the end of the school year. A $5.00 replacement fee will be charged for any lost lock.
Conferences will be scheduled during the year. It is the expectation of the faculty and administration that parents feel comfortable in visiting the school. To assure proper building security, all parents are required to check in at the office. We do appreciate your advance notice of a planned visit. If you would like to schedule a conference, please call the office for an appointment.
EMERGENCY SITUATIONS
All students will immediately come to attention when the alarm is sounded. The class will march out of the room in a brisk, orderly manner. Remain silent (talking is strictly forbidden) during a fire drill. Move from the building to your pre-established location. Fire exits and evacuation routes are posted in each room.
The school district provides textbooks, materials, equipment, and other items for students in the district, typically at no cost. Every student is obligated to provide books and all other school property the best of care. Such property is to be used and not abused. Students will be charged for lost or damaged books and other items. It is the student’s responsibility to see that the condition of the item(s) checked out to him/her is usable and cared for properly. Students who disfigure property, break windows, or do other damage to school property will be disciplined and required to pay for damage done or for replacement.
2004-2005 CALENDAR
July
Summer Vacation
August 4
First Day of School for Students
September 3
Professional Day (School Closed)
September 6
Labor Day Holiday (School closed)
October 1
Professional Day (School closed)
October 4-8
Fall Vacation
October 11-15
Fall Intersession
October 18
First Day for Students – Second Quarter
November 2
Professional Day/Election Day (No School)
November 24-26
Thanksgiving Holidays (School closed)
December 20-31
Winter Holidays (School closed)
January 3, 4, 5
Winter Intersession
January 6
First Day for Students – Third Quarter
January 17
Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday
School Closed
February 21
Professional Day – School Closed
March 18
School Closed (Make up if needed)
April 4-8
Spring Vacation
April 11-15
Spring Intersession
April 18
First Day for students – Fourth Quarter
May 6
School Closed (Make up if needed)
May 27
School Closed (Make up if needed)
May 30
Memorial Day Holiday (School Closed)
June 8
Last Day of School for Students
June 13-17
Summer Intersession
The dates for closing of school and the summer intersession may be delayed because snow days experienced during the school year will be made up at the end of the school year if make-up days are already used.
Four times per year, at each midterm of the quarter, report cards will be completed by each teacher, for every student. These reports will be done in a timely manner and will be available to the student’s parent or guardian. Report cards will be mailed at the end of each quarter. Formal narratives need not be attached. However, it is recommended that grades lower than a “C” is accompanied by a narrative report.
98-100 A+
95-97 A
93-94 A-
91-92 B+
87-90 B
85-86 B-
81-84 C+
77-80 C
73-76 C-
71-72 D+
67-70 D
65-66 D-
Below 65 is an F
GRADING PERIODS
August 4-October 1
October 18-December 17
January 6-April 1
April 18-June 8
MIDTERM
August 30; November 16; February 16; May 12
Report cards and midterms will be distributed approximately one week after the above dates.
This policy has been developed to establish minimum standards for the assignments, monitoring, and evaluation of homework assignments.
This policy is to inform all Bardstown Middle School teachers, parents, and students of homework requirements. It does not apply to students receiving homebound instruction or whose instructional program is governed by Individualized Plans, when those plans exclude the prospect of homework.
Homework is defined as assignments to be competed outside of the classroom to reinforce class instruction, prepare for class discussion, and provide curriculum enrichment opportunities.
MORE EFFECTIVE AND LESS EFFECTIVE PRACTICES IN THE ASSIGNMENT OF HOMEWORK
· Assignments that build on work accomplished in class.
· Study questions requiring written answers.
· Assignment tailored to individual student needs, allowing for individual creativity.
· Assignments given in writing with clear directions at beginning of class.
· Developing a course contract that specifies expectations for homework.
· Grade/comments on homework with emphasis on developmental skills and growth.
· Teachers make clear how they will evaluate class assignments (a variety of methods should be used).
· Gaining parental support for homework through frequent communication with parents and suggestions for ways they can help their children learn.
· Variation in types of homework assignments given
· Homework should apply skills to new situations and to real life.
· Homework should integrate many skills into a single assignment, open response questions, and portfolio entries.
· Busy work, unnecessary repetition of class work.
· Worksheets.
· Assignments requiring fill-in-the-blank answers.
· Assignments given orally at end of class.
· Leaving the policy unclear.
· No grade/comments on homework or comments focused only on correctness.
· Teachers do not discuss evaluation methods.
· Failing to communicate with parents about homework.
· Absence of attention to supportive structures.
· Same type of assignments given day after day.
· Assignments without real-life application of skills.
· Assignments that only allow for rote drill and practice involving one skill area.
Our school lunch service is a federally sponsored class “A: program organized to provide a nutritionally balanced meal for students in a pleasant surrounding. There are two serving schedules for lunch. Approximate times are:
12:40 – 1:05 Grade 8
11:40 – 12:05 Grade 7
12:10 – 12:35 Grade 6
Lunch may be purchased for $1.50. Prices are subject to change. Students electing to bring a sack lunch may purchase milk for $.25. Carbonated beverages and candy are not allowed in the cafeteria as a part of an individual student sack lunch.
BREAKFAST AND LUNCH
Each student has a student I.D. number. This I.D. number replaces the meal tickets that were formerly used. The most efficient method of operating the system is for parents to begin prepaying lunches. You now have the option to prepay weeks in advance. You can even prepay a month or a year in advance. The money goes into your child’s own debit account and is automatically deducted when he or she buys a lunch or breakfast. You may also add money for A La Cartes and extra milks if you choose. The money is kept in an account in the computer; therefore, it is always accessible. For those who choose not to prepay, you can still send lunch money every day.
It is necessary for students to prepay for meals, as charging will not be allowed on this new computer system. We feel that this system allows students the capability of prepaying so there should not be a reason to charge meals. Prepaying for meals is a simple process of paying in advance before school each Monday morning or the first day of the given school week. We do ask that students refrain from prepaying at meal times, as this extra transaction will slow down the lunch line. Monday morning payments are quick and easy. Full price breakfast - $.75; Reduced price breakfast - $.30; Full price lunch - $1.50; Reduced price lunch - $.40.
Another feature we feel will be very beneficial is the accountability. We are able to capture every transaction as it happens; therefore, at your request, we will be able to furnish you with a detailed list of items purchased, along with dates and amounts of prepayments, for any time period in question.
We are very pleased with the new program and feel it will be very beneficial for the students. Parents, and the school. Please feel free to contact the food service office at 331-8812 if you have any questions or comments.
It is the responsibility of each student to help keep the dining room clean and neat. All trays and trash shall be cleaned from the tables and put in the proper place. If food is spilled, notify person on duty and assist with clean up. Students are expected to display acceptable table manners and good behavior in the cafeteria.
No carbonated beverages or fast food are allowed in the cafeteria
A full range of services for special students is provided at Bardstown Middle School. These services are an integral part of the program and are in compliance with Kentucky law and state regulations. For further information regarding these programs, please contact District’s Director of Special Education Services at 331-8800.
Physical education classes at Bardstown Middle School are an integral part of the child’s educational experience. Skills, knowledge, and attitudes are developed in physical education program. For additional details and procedures pertaining to the physical education program, please consult the handout provided by the physical education teacher. Students are required to purchase a uniform at a cost of approximately $7.00 for shirt and $7.00 for shorts.
Riding the school bus to and from school is a privilege extended to the students of Bardstown Middle School by the school board. When this privilege is abused, it will be revoked. Good pupil conduct is essential for the safety of all. The following rules must be obeyed at all time.
1. Students should wait well back from the roadway until the bus has completely stopped, the door has been opened, and lights are flashing before approaching the door.
2. Students shall enter the bus in an orderly fashion, go directly to a seat, and remain seated. On reaching their destination, students shall leave the bus in an orderly fashion and immediately proceed away from the bus.
3. Bus windows may be opened only with the permission of the bus driver. Students shall keep hands, arms, heads, and belongings inside the bus.
4. There will be no smoking on the school bus.
5. If it is necessary to cross the street, students shall cross in front of the bus.
6. Students are expected to help the driver in keeping the inside of the bus clean by not eating, drinking, littering, or throwing objects around the bus
7. Students shall keep their hands off the person and property of others.
8. Students shall keep the aisles clear. Books, lunch boxes, athletic equipment, and musical instruments (depending on size) should be placed under the seat or held by the student.
9. In order not to distract the driver, students shall converse quietly.
10. Short of an emergency, students are not to touch any safety equipment on the bus. The emergency door is for emergency use only.
11. The bus driver shall have the same authority as the classroom teacher and, as such, has the right to assign seats to the students.
PROCEDURE FOR HANDLING BUS PROBLEMS
1. When a student has caused a problem on the bus, the bus driver completes a written complaint, which is delivered to the Principal.
2. The Principal and/or Assistant Principal then talks with the student(s) about the complaint. The student(s) is informed that a letter will be sent to his/her parents with the complaint enclosed. Additionally, the student and his/her parents are informed about the process: wherein, after the third complaint, the student loses his/her bus riding privilege. At any point in the process, the student and his/her parents may be asked to meet in the Principal’s office.
3. A letter is sent to the parents including a copy of the bus driver’s complaint following each occurrence.
4. Following the third complaint, the student loses his/her riding privileges for a period of time to be
5. Before a student’s bus riding privilege is reinstated, a meeting may be required with the student and both parents to review the bus rules and appropriate student conduct.
6. After a student is reinstated, any succeeding violation is treated as a third complaint with a loss of bus riding privileges which may be for the remainder of the school year.
7. If a student who normally rides a bus is not to take the bus, a note from the parent to that effect is required. Most school buses are loaded to capacity; thus, requests for student transfers are discouraged.
BARDSTOWN MIDDLE SCHOOL – BEHAVIOR CODE BILL OF RIGHTS
· Students have the right to be and feel safe in our school. Fighting, pushing, throwing objects and other acts that may be injurious are prohibited.
· Students have the right to be free of harassment. Taunting, name calling, “riding”, threatening, and other forms of harassment are prohibited.
· Students have the right to learn. Teachers have the right to teach. Interfering with or obstructing the orderly flow of class is prohibited.
· Students, parents, and school staff have the right to be treated with respect and courtesy.
· Be prepared for class.
· Do assigned work.
· Listen carefully and follow instructions.
· Do your best.
· Respect others’ property and person.
CODE OF CONDUCT
Bardstown Middle School prides itself in providing a challenging academic learning environment for your child. To maximize this undertaking, good manners and appropriate behavior are critically important. Students are expected to observe school procedures. The faculty and administration have developed this behavior code to compliment the school’s academic emphasis with student involvement. Parents are asked to assist in reinforcing good school behavior from the home.
The Code of Conduct at the Bardstown Middle School is built on scholarship, good manners, and citizenship. It sets forth a firm, fair, and consistent policy of discipline and also provides greater rewards for responsible students. In order for each student to do his/her best in all school activities, each must help make the school a pleasant and happy place in which to work. This means showing good manners, both in speaking and acting. By speaking in a friendly and helpful way and by acting according to the rules set forth, each student will behave appropriately in the school and will help himself/herself and others learn as much a possible.
When a student acts in such a way as to make it difficult for himself/herself or his/her classmates to learn, or makes it difficult for a teacher to teach, or disrupts the smooth and safe functioning of the school, that student will face the consequences necessitated by his or her actions.
The following procedures and expectations are developed by the faculty and administration of Bardstown Middle School and are set forth to foster wholesome and safe student deportment in an academic setting.
*HARASSMENT (RIDING), HAZING, SEXUAL HARASSMENT
These are non-constructive, unacceptable, illegal behaviors that are not allowed at Bardstown Middle School. *Kentucky law enforcement code 523.070 Harassment.
When serious formal complaints of harassment (riding, sexual, etc.) are reported, they will be taken seriously. Following due process procedures, parents of both the accused and the victim will be notified. Possible actions for their behavior may include:
· Suspension (up to 10 days). (Suspension time may be waived if proper assessment/evaluation is completed at own expense and proof is provided.)
· Expulsion (if behavior continues.)
· Involvement by local law enforcement agencies.
· Alternative School Placement.
· In-school isolation
· Counseling
Failure to follow prescribed procedures will result in further suspension or possible expulsion.
DEADLY WEAPONS ARE PROHIBITED ON SCHOOL PROPERTY
It is now against the law to possess a firearm or deadly weapon on school property. A firearm is defined as “any weapon from which a shot will expel a projectile by the action of an explosive.” KRS 527.010 (2). A deadly weapon means “any weapon from which a shot, readily capable of producing death or other serious physical injury, may be discharged; any knife other than an ordinary pocket knife or hunting knife; billy, nightstick, or club; blackjack or slapjack, nunchaku karate sticks; shruken or death star or artificial knuckles made from metal, plastic, or other similar hard material.” KRS 500.080.
Unlawful possession of a weapon on school property in Kentucky is a felony punishable by a maximum of five (5) years in prison and a ten thousand dollar ($10,000.00) fine.
THREATS
Threats of violence toward students, teachers or staff, or student to student, will be taken seriously, whether in jest or in anger. Following due process procedures, offenders will be dealt with according to KRS statute, board policy, and/or at school’s discretion. Possible actions:
· Expulsion
· Involvement by local law enforcement agencies
· Psychological assessment at offender’s expense
· Counseling through school district agencies
· Alternative School Placement
· In-school isolation
· Suspension
PROCEDURES FOR ALCOHOL AND DRUG OFFENSES
PHILOSOPHY
Bardstown Independent School District is committed to providing a safe alcohol and drug-free learning environment for all students and staff. To achieve this environment, the district has established a procedure for alcohol and drug offenses to assure students, parents, and the community that this school district will be free of alcohol and other illicit drugs.
The objectives of the procedures outlined below are to provide fair and progressive discipline, early prevention, intervention, and referral services.
DRUGS AND ALCOHOL PROHIBITED
No student shall possess, use, be under the influence, transfer, or sell any alcoholic beverage, narcotics, drug, or counterfeit controlled substances, nor possess, sell, or transfer drug paraphernalia. The above stated behavior is prohibited on or about school property, at any location of a school-sponsored activity, or en route to or from school or a school-sponsored activity.
DRUGS DEFINED
Controlled substance means any substance or immediate precursor listed in Chapter 218A of the Kentucky Revised Statues or any other substance which may be added by the Kentucky Cabinet for Human Resources under regulations pursuant to KRS 218A.020 or KRS 217.900 (2). Use of medications prescribed or ordered by a physician or dentist shall not be considered a violation of this policy.
REPORTING
Employees of the District shall promptly make a report to the local police department, sheriff, or Kentucky State Police, by telephone or otherwise, if they know or have reasonable cause to believe that conduct has occurred which constitutes the use, possession, transfer, or sale of controlled substances on the school premises or within one thousand (1,000) feet of school premises, on a school bus, or at a school-sponsored or sanctioned event.
POSSESSION, USE, OR UNDER THE INFLUENCE SANCTIONS
First offense for possession, use, or under the influence shall result in up to a ten- (10) day suspension. Up to five (5) days of the suspension shall be waived if the family, at its possible expense:
1. Seeks an assessment of the student’s alcohol/drug use from a counselor acceptable to the school district.
2. Provides the Substance Abuse Coordinator with documentation of the assessment findings.
3. Meets with the Substance Abuse Coordinator and completes an alcohol/drug education program. The parent/guardian will attend at least one session.
Failure to complete the assessment, and provide documentation of the assessment findings and failure to keep appointments with the Substance Abuse Coordinator will result in reinstatement of the five-(5) days of suspension previously waived.
NOTE: If substance abuse treatment is not recommended in the assessment, the school will still require the student to meet with the Substance Abuse Coordinator to quality for the waiver of the remaining days of suspension.
A second offense for possession, use, or being under the influence shall result in a fifteen (15) day suspension and mandatory sessions with the Substance Abuse Coordinator. Eight (8) days of this suspension may be waived if the family, at its possible expense.
1. Seeks an assessment of the student’s alcohol/drug use from a counselor acceptable to the school district.
2. Provides the Substance Abuse Coordinator with documentation of the assessment findings.
3. Meets with Substance Abuse Coordinator and completes an alcohol/drug education program. The parent/guardian will attend at least one session.
Failure to complete the assessment, and provide documentation of the assessment
findings and failure to keep appointments with the Substance Abuse Coordinator will result in reinstatement of the eight-(8) days of suspension previously waived.
NOTE: If substance abuse treatment is not recommended in the assessment, the
School will still require the student to meet with the Substance Abuse Coordinator to qualify for the waiver of the remaining days of suspension.
A third offense for possession, use or being under the influence shall result in an immediate suspension and a referral to the Superintendent by the Principal for expulsion.
SALE OR TRANSMISSION VIOLATION
A first offense for sale or transmission will result in either a twenty (2) day suspension and mandatory session with the Substance Abuse Coordinator, or an immediate referral to the Superintendent from the Principal for expulsion.
If suspended, ten (10) days of the suspension may be waived if the family, at its possible expense:
1. Seeks an assessment of the student’s alcohol/drug use from a counselor acceptable to the school district.
2. Provides the Substance Abuse Coordinator with documentation of the assessment findings.
3. Meets with the Substance Abuse Coordinator and completes an alcohol/drug education program. The parent/guardian will attend at least one session.
Failure to complete the assessment, provide documentation of the assessment
findings, and failure to keep appointments with the Substance Abuse Coordinator will result in reinstatement of the ten-(10) days of suspension previously waived.
NOTE: If substance abuse treatment is not recommended in the assessment, the school will still require the student to meet with the Substance Abuse Coordinator to qualify for the waiver of the remaining days of suspension.
A second offense for sale or transmission will result in an immediate suspension and a referral to the superintendent for expulsion.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Confidentiality between students, teachers, staff, administration, and outside referral agencies will be observed at all times.
GRIEVANCE
The normal grievance process that governs the Bardstown School District will also be used for appeals concerning the alcohol/drug policy.
RESPONSIBLE BEHAVIOR MODEL
The faculty and staff at BMS believe that an effective discipline system should reinforce the educational success of the school. This responsible behavior process has been designed to encourage students to take responsibility for self-discipline and to be accountable for their own conduct.
For this process to work, students will be included in the making of classroom guidelines. Students are less likely to break rules they help make.
It is the belief of BMS that discipline must be dealt with in the classroom to be effective. For this to happen, these procedures will be followed:
1st offense. Warning and a verbal plan to solve the problem are made by the student.
2nd offense. If the verbal plan is not successful, the student will provide a written plan to be followed. This stage may include a loss of student privileges.
3rd offense. A second behavior plan will be written by student and may be followed with an in-class isolation, and/or a loss of privilege, or detention. Parental contact made.
4th offense. If written contracts are not successful, in-class isolation/loss of student privileges/detention will result. Pod team will meet to decide on other possible solutions to problem.
5th offense. ZERO TOLERANCE.
Student may be sent to another grade level pod for cooling off period. (For example, an eighth grade student may be sent to the sixth grade teacher, or a seventh grade student maybe sent to the fifth and vice-versa). Parent will be contacted.
Any or all of these may occur: Saturday School, in-class isolation, student sent to another pod grade level, detention, in-school isolation, suspension from school, expulsion.
Zero tolerance can occur at any stage of this responsible behavior model. Zero tolerance can be reached when a child continues to break plans either verbal or written and fails to act in good faith to come up with a workable plan. Zero tolerance may also occur in regard to fighting, vandalism, smoking, stealing, passing notes, flashing gang signs, cheating, sexual harassment, and any offense involving drugs, alcohol, or possession of a deadly weapon.
STRIKING ANOTHER PERSON (FIGHTING)
Where deliberate hurtful contact is initiated between two pupils, the first person to strike is suspended/in-school isolation. If the second party strikes back, he/she is also suspended/in-school isolation. (However, the circumstance of each incident will be investigated and evaluated.)
DISTRICT DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES
With regard to vandalism, smoking, alcohol, drugs, stealing, forging, truancy, fire alarms, and bomb scares, in that these are violations of law, police and/or fire department authorities will be involved. Any student who is suspended from school for these infractions will not be allowed to participate in any extracurricular activities for ten (10) days following the suspension.
ELIGIBILITY FOR EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ATHLETIC/EXTRACURRICULAR
PARTICIPATION POLICY
The following policies and procedures shall be followed by the students/athletes in the 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grades who are participating in extracurricular activities at Bardstown Middle School.
Activities: All sports, speech and drama, academic teams, etc.
Social Events: Participation in school social functions such as dances, concerts, non-academic field trips, festivals, etc., will be limited only to disciplinary infractions and attendance (not grades).
Grades: The student must maintain a cumulative (73%) average in the current grading period, and must be passing all classes. If the participating student does not meet the criteria, he/she will be on level one (1) probation for two weeks. At the end of the two-week period or when the grade requirement is met, he/she will return to full eligibility status. During this two-week period the student may participate in practices, if acceptable to the coach. If improvement has not been achieved after the two-week level one (1) probation, the student athlete goes to level two (2) probation (two weeks of no practice and no games and mandatory attendance to before and/or after school tutoring) until grade criteria is met. If at the end of this time period eligibility has not been met, the student will be dismissed from the team. If academic ineligibility occurs three times during the season the student will be dismissed from the team. Any grade change for eligibility may not occur on a game day, (must be met prior to game day.) Grades will be checked weekly.
A student not meeting the criteria at the time of try-out may not participate in the try-out.
Discipline: A student may receive up to two (2) “free” conduct referrals during the course of the school year that will not effect eligibility for extra curricular activities. Every referral after that will result in a one game or activity suspension. If during a given season a student receives three additional referrals above the (2) free ones, he/she will be dismissed from the team. A student that is placed in the alternative school, in-school suspension, or is suspended from school may not participate or attend school activities during the period of disciplinary action.
Attendance: A student must be present in school at least ˝ day – excused, in order to practice, participate in a game, or other school-sponsored activity.
Other Criteria for Participation: Coaches and/or sponsors may require other standards and rules that must be met for individual and team participation. (i.e. required attendance at practices, punctuality, physicals, etc.) These requirements shall not be more or less stringent in the areas of grade disciplinary criteria.
High School Sports: Middle school students who participate in high school athletics will adhere to the middle school eligibility requirements.
*Alternative school students will not be eligible to participate.
Effective July, 2003.
PROCEDURE FOR FILING A PARENT COMPLAINT OR GRIEVANCE WITH THE SCHOOL
· gather the facts and details
· double check your child’s situation or story
· review the pertinent section(s) of the student/parent handbook
· work through the pertinent professionals
· conference with the teacher or other pertinent person involved
· make sure that your child understands his/her responsibilities and is meeting his/her obligations
· should a problem or condition persist after your having made reasonable and repeated efforts to correct the unsatisfactory condition/situation, the Principal or Assistant Principal should be contacted
· the matter will be reviewed along with pertinent student(s) and staff contacts made to resolve the problem
· if the preceding procedure has not resolved your concerns, you are encouraged to set forth your complaint to the Principal in writing.
COMPLIANCE
Bardstown Middle School is in compliance with all state and district regulations and procedures. For further information regarding the school or its procedures, please contact the principal’s office at 331-8803.