http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/schools/robertfrostms/ RFMS Parent Volunteer Opportunities Robert Frost Middle School relies on stakeholder participation in its work through a variety of activities. Parent and community involvement is important to the success of our students. We are fortunate to have such a committed and involved parent community. We look forward to another year of outstanding partnerships! Listed are just a few of the activities that benefit from your support. There will be additional opportunities to volunteer throughout the year. You are one of the reasons why Frost is a School of Excellence! PTSA Committee Support Book Fair: Volunteers needed to help with the Book Fair. Volunteers needed to set-up, sell, and take-down. Friday Night Dances: Organized and sponsored by the Frost PTSA, these dances require chaperones for a variety of duties including admission, refreshments, and general oversight. Two dances for each grade are organized, one in the Fall and one in the Spring. Helping Hands (formerly ‘Day of Giving’): The Helping Hands program is the PTA’s efforts to 1) make our children aware of the needs of others at the local, national, and international level, and 2) give them an opportunity to address these needs. Volunteers are needed to plan the year and facilitate the programs that offer our student volunteers opportunities to help others and earn student service learning credits. Differently Abled Fair: Assist with planning, preparation and logistics. Directory: Assist with distribution of the PTSA student directory in October. Frost Informer Monthly Newsletter: Assist with editing, proofreading, labeling and delivering the monthly newsletter to the Post Office. Hospitality: Help with set up and clean up of refreshments offered at PTSA and school functions. Reflections: A National PTA sponsored, art-oriented (photography, visual arts, music, literature), student enrichment opportunity. Assist with logistics, judge selection, judging. See http://www.pta.org/reflections06/. Safety/Security Concerns: Help assess the need for parental involvement with potential safety/security issues; help coordinate and implement. Staff Appreciation: Assist with purchase, preparation, set up and clean up for staff appreciation events (about 4 events per year). Website Support: Assist with maintenance of PTSA website. Welcome Wagon: Help welcome and support families that arrive to Frost after the start of the school year. Fluency in other languages is especially helpful. FROST PARENT VOLUNTEER SIGN-UP (Please Print Clearly) Parent Name: _____________________________________________________________________________ Student Name: _____________________________________________Grade ___ Student Name: _____________________________________________Grade ___ Student Name: _____________________________________________Grade ___ Home # ____________________________ Work # ______________________________________________ Cell # ______________________________ E-mail _______________________________________________ Days and Hours Available: __________________________________________________________________ THANK YOU! If you need more information before signing up, refer to the Parent Handbook or the PTSA website www.RobertFrostPTA.org or contact the PTSA President. RETURN FORM TO FROST MAIN OFFICE Grade 6 Support ___Parent Coordinator ___Field Trips ___Recognition Ceremonies ___Team Events Grade 7 Support ___Parent Coordinator ___Field Trips ___Recognition Ceremonies ___Team Events ___Chaperone 8th grade end of year dance Grade 8 Support ___Parent Coordinator ___Field Trips ___Recognition Ceremonies ___Team Events ___Chaperone end of year trip ___8th grade dance _ Purchase Supplies _ Set-up Special Event Support Support ___Academic Arts Fair ___Career Day Speaker PTSA Committee Support PTSA Committee __Book Fair __Box Tops/Printer Cartridges __MCCPTA __Membership ___Dessert Theatre ___International Night __Cluster __Dances __Safety/Security Concerns __Destination Imagination __Directory and Advertising __Frost Informer Newsletter __Helping Hands (Formerly Day of Giving) __Hospitality __NAACP ___Picture Days ___Project Linus ___Talent Show ___Other (call me) ___Differently Abled Fair Departmental Support ___Band/Orchestra Support ___ESOL Support ___Guidance Advisory Committee ___Graphic Art Assistance ___Grounds Beautification ___Media Center Assistance ___Main Office Volunteer (subst. list) ___Health Room-regular/routine ___Health Room-hearing/vision screening __Spirit Wear __SSL Hours __Staff Appreciation __Student Support __Technology __Volunteers __Website Support __Welcome Wagon Grade: ______________ Language: ___________ Comments: FROST FOUNDATIONS SCHOOL VISION “EXPERIENCE EXCELLENCE!” SCHOOL MISSION Robert Frost Middle School Is a dedicated partnership between staff, students and community united by a common responsibility to challenge, inspire, and assists students to grow and excel intellectually, emotionally and socially. Through collaboration, communication, trust and respect, our partnership reflects on, refines, and implements short and long term goals to measure student success. CORE VALUES I. Every person is valued and respected. II. A safe nurturing environment is essential to learning. II. Being Trustworthy: showing that others can depend on you through honesty, promise keeping, loyalty, commitment and self-discipline; keeping your word. Showing Respect for oneself and for others. Valuing all persons, treating others as you would want to be treated, accepting and tolerating cultural and ethnic differences, being polite to all, honoring the freedom and privacy of others. Being Fair: following the rules, listening actively, gathering all the facts and giving prior notice before you act. Caring for others in our community: being kind, considerate, helpful and polite; thinking in advance about how your choices affect others. Showing good Citizenship by participating in our community: volunteer, be a good neighbor, respect the rules, do your best and participate actively in your classes and other activities. Success is everyone’s responsibility. Being Responsible for who we are and what we do: doing our duty to help the community, meeting our obligations in class and at home, pursuing excellence, and showing self-control. Accepting the consequences of our actions. 2 2014 - 2015 Staff to Know MAIN OFFICE: (301) 279-3949 Dr. Joey Jones, Principal Ms. Wade, Assistant School Administrator, Grade 6 Administrator Dr. Woodward, Assistant Principal, Grade 7 Administrator Mr. Johnson, Assistant Principal, Grade 8 Administrator Ms. Petersen, Administrative Secretary Ms. Yamada, Financial Assistant Ms. Williams, Office Secretary Ms. Ellis, Attendance Secretary Mr. Blackman, Security Mr. Waddell, Security Ms. Horkan, Staff Development Teacher Ms. Salzano, Instructional Data Analyst COUNSELING OFFICE: (301) 279-3965 Mr. Ed Reed (Resource Counselor) 6th Grade A - B Ms. Kris Douglas 6th Grade C – Z Mr. Ed Reed (Resource Counselor) 7th Grade A- D Mr. Brian Gregory 7th Grade E – Z Ms. Ellen Berman 8th Grade A - F Ms. Katherine Hallas 8th Grade G - Z STUDENT SERVICE LEARNING: (301) 279-3949 Ms. Sharon Warner MEDIA CENTER: (301) 279-3949 Ms. Yu, Media Specialist Ms. Rawson, Media Assistant COMPUTERS: (301) 279-3961 Ms. Lufkin, Information Technology Systems Specialist HEALTH ROOM: (301) 279-3960 Ms. Ernst, Community Health Nurse Ms. Thuro, Health Technician CAFETERIA: (301) 279-3957 Ms. Tenney, Cafeteria Manager Ms. Ehrlich, Lunch Aide BUILDING SERVICES: (301) 279-3958 Mr. Bruku, Building Service Manager Mr. Silver, Plant Equipment Operator Mr. Villaroel, Night Leader 3 TEAMS AND DEPARTMENTS 6th Grade Team 6th Grade Team Leaders: Ms. Katie Shah & Ms. Sunila Varghese Mr. Jeremy Childs Ms. Elizabeth Fishman Ms. Katherine Freedenberg Ms. Sarah Garrett Ms. Rebecca Gibbs Ms. Teri Gilger Ms. Stacey Jordan Mr. Daniel Rose Ms. Janice Reeves Ms. Wendy Salzman Ms. Lori Solomon Ms. Audrey Wasser 7th Grade Team 7th Grade Team Leaders: Mr. Tim O’Keefe & Mr. Harrison Toy Ms. Mary Anderson Ms. Linda Engelman Ms. Jill Garber Mr. Jason Garbic Mr. Christian Madoo Mr. Brian Meyer Ms. Charmian Redden Ms. Gemma Rivera Ms. Elizabeth Rubin Ms. Jennie Woo 8th Grade Team 8th Grade Team Leaders: Ms. Phyllis Bank & Ms. Madhuri Tallapragada Mr. Matt Anton Mr. Antonio Carrillo Mr. Danny Chang Ms. Wendy Frankel Ms. Ellen Gagnon Mr. Christian Harriot Mr. Mark Leatherman Mr. Ken Reddington Ms. Martha Schrenk Mr. Kevin Settlage Ms. Mary Sylvester Ms. Lynn Verde 4 Special Education Ms. Amy Johnson, RTSE Ms. Angie Dowling Ms. Dina Hagins Ms. Kathleen Greenberg Ms. Kathy Lam Ms. Merav Levenson Ms. Catherine Michaels Ms. Michelle Minich World Languages Ms. Frances Avila-Miller, RT Ms. Virginia Pass Ms. Tsuey-Lan (Isabel) Hsu Ms. Faith Kleinburd Ms. Cortavarria TBD-ESOL Physical Education Mr. Justin Owen, RT Mr. Adrian Blott Mr. Robert DeSanto Ms. Nancy Nechanicky Mr. Henry Niverth Ms. Cathy Reisch Ms. Gabriella Wood Arts Team Ms. Meghan Zanskas, RT Mr. Ken Krohn Ms. Jennifer Johnson Mr. Dave Rogoza Ms. Joy Swantkowski Ms. Sharon Warner Ms. Jane Weber *A comprehensive list of staff email addresses can be found on the Robert Frost webpage.* 5 FAMILY-SCHOOL CONTRACT This contract represents an agreement between Robert Frost Middle School's families, students and staff to work as partners in our community of learning, to help each student reach his/her potential. As partners, our signatures indicate we have reviewed this Handbook and agree to the following: As a student I will: Believe that I can learn and will learn. Come to class on time, ready to learn, with all assignments complete. Write in my Handbook the daily assignment. Set aside time every day to complete my homework. Regularly talk to my parents and my teachers about my progress in school. Respect myself, my family, my classmates, school staff and our school. Know and follow the policies and rules listed in the Frost Student Handbook. ______________________ Print Name _____ Grade _________________________________ Student Signature ___________ Date As a parent/guardian or family member I will: Talk to my child regularly about the value of education. Make sure that my child attends school every day, on time, and with homework complete. Make sure that my child reads every day. Monitor my child's TV viewing/computer play. Make every effort to attend school events such as Open House and Back to School Night; volunteer to model the importance of supporting the learning community. Demonstrate respect for myself, my family, my child’s classmates and school staff. Check my child's Handbook for daily assignments and teacher notes. Know and support the policies and rules listed in the Frost Student Handbook. ________________________________ ___________ Parent/Guardian Signature Date As teachers and staff members we will: Communicate high expectations for every student. Teach and involve all students in classes that meet MCPS standards and objectives. Endeavor to motivate our students to learn. Participate in professional development opportunities that improve teaching and learning. Enforce rules equitably and involve students in creating a safe and nurturing learning environment in the class. Provide assistance to families on what they can do to support their child's learning. Demonstrate respect for self, school staff, students and their families, and the school. Promote the Handbook as a communication tool with students and parents. Know and support the policies and rules listed in the Frost Student Handbook. ___________________________________ Dr. Joey Jones, Principal 6 8/25/14 Date Robert Frost Middle School Code of Civility The students, staff and parents of the Robert Frost School community, adopt this code of civility with the goal of cultivating a community based on trust, integrity and honor in both academic and social endeavors. As we strive to be excellent citizens, we will: Be honest and open in all our actions. Extend courtesy, kindness and respect to each other Value both our school building and each individual’s personal property and will treat them with care Cooperate and show pride in all our school programs For Parents: Please read the above information and discuss it with your child. For Students: I have read the RFMS Code of Civility and agree to be the excellent citizen described above. Student Name (Printed) ____________________ Student Signature _________________________ Parent Signature ___________________________ Grade _____________ Date __________________ For Staff: I agree to demonstrate for students what an excellent citizen is through my interactions with other staff, students and parents. Staff Name (Printed) _________________________ Staff Signature ______________________________ Parent Signature ____________________________ Grade _____________ Date __________________ 7 PROFILE OF A SUCCESSFUL STUDENT All Frost students are expected to attend classes regularly, to participate in all class activities, and to complete all assignments on time and according to stated objectives. Additionally, to get the most that Frost has to offer, students should: 1. Be responsible and self-directed learners. Come to class with necessary materials and textbooks. See the teacher prior to a due date if you have a concern or question about an assignment. Demonstrate good study habits. Promptly make up work when absent without being reminded. Try to see possible problems and obstacles ahead of time and initiate solutions. Complete all assignments in a timely manner. Pay close attention to verbal and written directions so that class assignments can be completed as independently as possible. 2. Be active participants in class discussions and collaborative activities. Be consistently attentive and involved. Contribute to class discussions. Respond readily and reasonably when called upon. 3. Regularly display higher order thinking skills. Ask and respond to questions in class discussions that suggest critical reading and thinking. Look beyond the literal level when reading; think about what the author is saying and whether or not you agree with it. Be risk takers by taking original, insightful approaches to assignments. Recognize relationships between the material being studied and that previously read, between subjects, and between real life situations and material. 4. Exhibit positive classroom behaviors. Display curiosity—Ask quality questions. Convey seriousness about learning as opposed to simply "getting the work done". Demonstrate good work habits. Demonstrate the ability to concentrate. Demonstrate the ability to work cooperatively with peers and teachers. 5. Regularly demonstrate mastery of reading and writing skills. Develop written and spoken responses that are clear and organized. Display an understanding of the main idea through topic sentences, supporting details. 8 INFORMATION AND POLICIES ATTENDANCE There is a direct and positive relationship between school attendance and student achievement. Student attendance is a vital responsibility for every student and parent. Students are expected to attend every scheduled class on time, each day, unless there is a legitimate reason for an excused tardiness or absence. In the State of Maryland, a limited number of situations and circumstances are considered lawful reasons for a student to be absent from school. The reasons are: Death in the immediate family Certified illness of the child Court summons Violent/hazardous weather Religious holidays State emergency Work or activity authorized by school authorities PARENTS SHOULD CALL 301-279-3949 BETWEEN 7:30 A.M. AND 9:00 A.M. ON THE DAY THEIR CHILD IS ABSENT. On the day of return, the student is required to bring in a note to the main office before school begins containing the following information: student’s full, legal name and grade, date of absence, phone number, reason for absence, and parent’s signature All excused attendance notes that are not submitted within five school days of the student’s return is subject to non-approval. A doctor’s excuse is required when a student is absent for a period of five days or longer, due to illness. FAMILY TRIPS SHOULD BE ARRANGED DURING SUMMER AND OTHER SCHOOL BREAKS. IF A STUDENT MUST MISS SCHOOL, A LETTER OF EXPLANATION MUST BE FURNISHED AT LEAST ONE WEEK IN ADVANCE TO THE MAIN OFFICE IN ORDER FOR THE ABSENCE TO BE APPROVED AND THE TEACHERS WILL HAVE ADEQUATE TIME TO PREPARE ANY WORK AND MATERIALS. AN ADMINISTRATOR WILL REVIEW THE LETTER WITH THE STUDENT AND PROVIDE THE SECRETARY WITH THE DATES OF THE ABSENCE. THE ATTENDANCE SECRETARY WILL NOTIFY THE TEACHERS VIA EMAIL. IT IS THE STUDENT’S RESPONSIBILITY TO COLLECT THE WORK FROM THE TEACHER BEFORE LEAVING. Extended absences could affect a student’s academic progress and grades. Under normal circumstances, a vacation is not a Maryland state approved reason for an absence. Extended Illness When illness requires that a student be absent for three or more days, a parental request for assignments can be made by calling the counseling secretary (301-279-3965). The secretary will need approximately 24-48 hours to notify teachers and collect the assignments. Tardiness to school A student arriving after 7:55 A.M. must report directly to the main office upon arrival. A pass to class that identifies the tardiness absence as excused or unexcused will be issued. If a student is chronically tardy to class, the parent will be contacted and the student may be referred to the appropriate administrator. Tardiness to class Tardiness for any student is defined as a failure to be in the assigned classroom when the tardy bell rings. STUDENTS SHOULD BE ON TIME TO EVERY CLASS, EVERY DAY. If a student is tardy, the teacher will confer with the student and assign detention. If a student is chronically tardy to class, the parent will be contacted and the student may be referred to the appropriate administrator. 9 Early Departures If it is necessary for a student to leave school during the day, the student must bring a note, signed by parent/guardian, to the main office before school starts. The note must indicate when the parent needs the student to be in the main office for departure. All students must be signed out of school in the main office by a parent/guardian. If someone other than the parent or guardian will be picking up a student, that person must be named in the note and identification will be required when they arrive. These measures are taken to ensure the safety of all Robert Frost students. If a parent makes an appointment for their child after the student leaves for school, please call the main office to let them know when the child needs to be picked up. Office staff will get the message and departure slip to the student at the time, least disruptive to instruction. Parents should try to make all appointments after the school day. MCPS Attendance Policy The following bullets are being implemented in accordance with the Maryland Student Records System manual revised by the Maryland State Department of Education. Students will be recorded as a.m. absent, if they arrive at school more than two hours late. Students will be recorded as p.m. absent, if they leave school more than two hours early. Students will be recorded as either a.m. absent or p.m. absent, if they are absent from school for more than two hours, but less than four hours during the school day. Students will be recorded as full-day absent, if they are present for less than two hours of the school day. Students will be recorded as full-day present, if they are present for more than four hours of the school day. MAKE-UP WORK Excused Absences It is the STUDENT’S RESPONSIBILITY to obtain missed assignments when absent from class. It is recommended that a student do the following: 1. Contact the teacher upon returning to school either before school, S.O.A.R., lunch or after school. 2. If possible, notify the teacher via email. 3. Check Edline for posted assignments. 4. Arrange a make-up schedule with each teacher upon his/her return to class. The purpose of the communication with the teacher is to arrange a make-up schedule to complete the missed assignment. Students will be allowed one day for each day of an excused absence to make-up work. For example, two days of an excused absence equals two days to make-up the work. Long-term/Daily Assignments Students will be allowed one day for each day of an excused absence to make-up. A student who had prior knowledge of a test or quiz that will be given on the day of an absence is expected to take that test or quiz upon his/her return. Unexcused Absences Work missed while a student is absent from class for reasons which are unexcused may be made up at the discretion of the teacher. 10 ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY Students who have a 2.0 average with no more than one “E” in the previous marking period are eligible to participate or practice in any extracurricular activity (activities include but not limited to intramurals, athletics and attendance to athletic events) during the next marking period. The eligibility period begins on the day the report card is issued. Grades reported as incomplete shall be considered passing grades until changed. Incomplete grades that are not changed to a passing grade within ten school days after report cards are issued will be considered failing grades, for eligibility purposes, until they are changed. This regulation does not govern activities related to course objectives, extension of a graded course in a middle school, such as concert or drama presentations for class, which would adversely affect the student’s grade. Students declared ineligible may petition the activity sponsor to be reinstated provided the student has shown evidence of progress toward meeting eligibility status. Students who make this request must wait until at least two weeks after report cards have been distributed. The principal will make final decisions regarding these petitions. ALLERGIES In an effort to be considerate of students and staff with allergies, please avoid spraying deodorants, perfumes, and other like substances in the locker banks and hallways. Also, avoid sharing foods with students and staff who might be allergic to nuts, shellfish, dairy, etc. BACKPACKS Backpacks, book bags and totes may be used to transport materials to and from school. HOWEVER, THEY MUST REMAIN IN THE STUDENT’S LOCKER DURING THE DAY. The purpose of this is to promote a safe and secure environment. Backpacks on rollers will not fit into Frost lockers. BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS Celebrations in the cafeteria and any other location are expected to be conducted in an orderly manner. This privilege may be discontinued at the discretion of the administrator. Locker birthday celebrations are limited to ONE balloon per birthday. THE BALLOON AND DECORATIONS MUST BE REMOVED AT THE END OF THE SCHOOL DAY TO PREVENT A FALSE ALARM OF THE MOTION DETECTORS. If balloons and decorations are not removed by the end of the day, building service will remove them. Students may not write on lockers for decoration or any other reason. Decorations should not deface (tape residue) or damage the locker. CAFETERIA Meal Prices Frost uses computerized tracking of all student food purchases. Each student will have a Personal Identification Number (PIN). Food may be purchased with cash, or money can be deposited into a student’s account. This can be done ahead of time, in person or on-online, eliminating the need for a student to carry cash. STUDENTS MAY NOT USE ANOTHER PERSON’S PIN. Free and Reduced Meal Program At the beginning of the school year an application is given to every student to take home to parents in order to apply. This application is to be brought back to school to the main office for processing through the Food Services office. Students and parents will be notified of the outcome of the application process. COMMUNITY RESOURCES Drawing the Line: 301-217-1966 (to report underage drinking) Operation Runaway: 1-800-204-8600 Police Non-Emergency: 240-773-5390 Suicide Prevention Hotline: 301-738-2255 Youth Crisis Hotline (24 hrs.): 301-315-4000 Homework Hotline: 301-279-3234 11 DIVERSITY Robert Frost Middle School encompasses a diverse community. As stated in our core values, “Every person is valued and respected.” We believe diversity offers opportunities for growth, enlightenment and enriches the teaching and learning environment. To embrace diversity is to embrace our students. EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Frost offers many extracurricular activities throughout the school year. We hope all students will participate in the activities that they enjoy. Below is a sample list of the clubs and activities that may meet during the school year. NOTE: to be a participant in or spectator at any extracurricular activity, the student is required to be eligible and in all scheduled classes the day of the event. The principal or designee may excuse a student’s absence for part of the day, due to a pre-scheduled appointment at his/her discretion. Athletic Team Sports (may include) – Gr. 7/8 (cross country, softball, basketball, soccer) Algebra Tutoring Kids Yoga Public Speaking Club Book Club Knitting Club Recycling Club Fitness Club LYLAS/TCB S.G.A Math Matters Club Spanish Tutoring International Club Math Team TV Club Intramurals Newspaper Club Yearbook Club Jazz Band HALL PASSES Students are not permitted in the halls during class periods, NOW reading, S.O.A.R, or lunch unless they have a written pass signed by a staff member or accompanied by a school staff member. The student assignment book should be used as the hall pass. HOMEWORK Homework will be given to enable students to master objectives in each subject and should be considered the rule rather than the exception. Students should organize their time so that sufficient attention can be devoted to homework each evening. Parents should review the student’s homework assignments daily with their children. It is recommended that each student uses a Frost Student Handbook to record assignments daily. Additionally, Edline may be used to check grades. http://www.edline.net HONOR ROLL To qualify for honor roll, a student is required to maintain a “B” average for the 9-week grading period. The student is permitted no more than one “C” if it is balanced by an “A” and no grade less than a “C” for the grading period. In addition students are recognized for straight A’s with a special certificate. The honor roll will be published in The Frost Informer and posted in the main lobby at the close of each marking period. LOCKERS Each student is assigned a hall locker and a physical education locker to be used for storing school-related possessions. Students will be provided a lock, from school, for their hall locker. Students may use the same lock in grades 6, 7, and 8. Locks that are lost may be replaced at the cost of $5.00. A student may replace their lock in the main office. Students must keep their combinations secret and avoid storing valuables in their lockers. THE SCHOOL IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST OR STOLEN PROPERTY. STUDENTS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO SHARE LOCKERS OR USE ANOTHER STUDENT’S LOCKER FOR ANY REASON. No one may touch, open or enter another person’s locker without administrative permission. Students are responsible for keeping their lockers clean inside and out. No food should be stored in the lockers. No writing is permitted on the locker, inside or out and inappropriate pictures are not allowed. Students may be charged a financial obligation for defaced or damaged lockers. 12 LOST AND DAMAGED PROPERTY The school is not responsible for lost or damaged personal property of students. This includes, but not limited to backpacks, cameras, cell phones, iPods, musical instruments, etc. LOST AND FOUND Students should label all of their possessions with their name to aid in recovery of lost and found items. Found items should be turned in to the staff member in charge of the area where the item was found. Items may also be turned into the main office. Lost and found articles can be reclaimed in the cafeteria, main office, or physical education department. Textbooks and notebooks may be reclaimed from the appropriate subject teacher. MATERIALS LEFT AT HOME Students are expected to bring all materials they need each day. Food, books, assignments, projects, clothing for P.E., etc. that are delivered to school after the start of classes will not be given to the student until lunchtime so as to avoid interrupting instruction. PROMOTION POLICY For students in Grades 3 through 8, promotion is based on academic progress and the attainment of objectives assigned to the students. Other factors must be considered to meet the needs of the whole child. The final responsibility for promotion decisions rests with the principal. REPORT CARDS AND INTERIM REPORTS Report cards are issued every nine weeks to notify parents of student progress. Interim progress reports will be given to students at the mid-point of each marking period. SCHOOL HOURS Classes begin each day at 7:55 a.m. and end at 2:40 p.m. Students may arrive no earlier than 7:30 a.m. Upon arrival students are expected to remain in the lobby until 7:35 a.m., unless under the supervision of a staff member. Students are to remain on school grounds once they arrive, unless they are signed out in the main office by a responsible adult. ALL STUDENTS MUST LEAVE THE BUILDING BY 2:50 P.M. UNLESS SUPERVISED BY A SCHOOL STAFF MEMBER. STUDENTS SHOULD NOTIFY THEIR PARENTS IN ADVANCE WHEN PLANS ARE MADE TO STAY AFTER SCHOOL. Students should be picked up promptly following all after-school activities. If a parent needs to get a message to their child concerning after school plans, they must call the main office before 2:30 p.m. to allow sufficient time for staff to locate the student before the dismissal bell. SCHOOL SUPPLIES Supplies of pencils, pens, paper, and notebooks are the responsibility of the student. Students may use a three-ring notebook with dividers and a Frost issued (Student Handbook new name) to keep track of assignments. The handbook will be issued during the first week of school. SEARCH AND SEIZURE A school administrator, security assistant or designee may conduct a reasonable search of a student on school premises if there is probably cause to believe the student possesses an illegal item. Possession of certain items is a criminal offense under Maryland State Law. The search must be made in the presence of a third party of majority age. A school administrator, security assistant or designee may conduct a search of the physical plant of the school, including student lockers, with reasonable cause. Any confiscated property belonging to a student will be returned to the student or his/her parents, unless its return would threaten the safety of others or violate state law. 13 THEFT If students have property stolen from them, the theft should be reported to the main office immediately. Theft can be discouraged if students: Bring no “extra” money to school; only enough for lunch Clearly label all items of clothing with name and grade Lock lockers (hall and PE) properly. DO NOT SHARE LOCKER COMBINATIONS WITH ANYONE. If a valuable item must be brought to school, ask a teacher, counselor, or administrator to keep the item until needed. VISITORS Montgomery County Public Schools regulations require that all visitors register and show ID in the main office to obtain admittance to the building. A guest badge will be issued. Classroom visits by parents are welcomed but SHOULD BE ARRANGED IN ADVANCE through a staff member. Former Frost students may visit teachers after 3:00 p.m. by appointment only. THIS VISIT MUST BE PREARRANGED WITH THE TEACHER. Students who do not attend Frost are not permitted to visit school or attend classes without prior permission from an administrator. This includes family members and out of town guests. This practice is discouraged so that instruction is not interrupted. WEATHER EMERGENCIES In the event of inclement weather, information about delayed openings or school closures can be obtained on local television and radio stations or the MCPS website (www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org) . Additional notification can be received by subscribing to Alert MCPS. Alert MCPS is a way that you can receive text messages or e-mail from Montgomery County Public Schools during weather-related emergencies and other major events that impact school system operations. Alert MCPS is administered by Montgomery County Public Schools and is part of the Montgomery County Alert System. To subscribe visit the MCPS website. TRANSPORTATION School Buses Bus schedules, routes, and drivers are the responsibility of the Division of Transportation. The bus route supervisor for Frost can be reached at 301-670-8273 to discuss concerns or suggestions. Bus service is available to all students who live beyond walking distance for both morning and afternoon pick-up. Bus schedules are provided prior to the opening of school each year and posted on the Frost website. Students are expected to ride only their assigned bus. If a parent wants their child to ride a different bus, they must sign a note indicating their child’s full name, who they want their child to go home with and which bus they will be riding. All requests must be in writing; phone calls are not acceptable. The student must bring the note to the main office when they arrive to school that day. If the request is approved, the student will receive a special bus pass that they will present to the bus driver of the bus they will be riding. This procedure also applies to students who do not regularly ride a bus to school, but may need to do so. These requests will be honored only if a student is going to another student’s home to work on a school project or for child care reasons, and if space is available on the bus. Students are expected to follow the directions of the bus driver and behave in a quiet and orderly manner. FOOD OR DRINK IS PERMITTED ON THE BUS AT THE DISCRETION OF INDIVIDUAL BUS DRIVERS. Students who misbehave may have bus riding privileges temporarily or permanently denied. 14 Car Drop Off/Pick Up Only school buses are permitted to enter the front circle driveway between 7:30 a.m. and 8:15 a.m. in the morning and between 2:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. in the afternoon. Parents providing transportation for students must use the lower parking lot to drop off or pick up students. In the afternoon, parents who pick up their children will need to arrive before 2:30 p.m. and park in the lower lot or arrive after 2:50 p.m. (when all buses have left the school). Students should never be dropped off on Scott Drive. Parents are expected to follow these procedures and/or the direction provided by the security assistants directing traffic in the driveway. Please adhere to a safe speed limit while driving on school property. Bicycles Bicycle racks are available in the front of the building for students who ride their bikes to school. The wearing of helmets is required and students must walk their bike to and from crosswalks using the sidewalks. Activity Buses An after school activity bus is available on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays to provide transportation to those students who live beyond walking distance . The bus leaves Frost at approximately 4:15 p.m. on these days. Students must obtain a bus pass from either the after school activity coordinator or a staff member. Students who serve an after school detention are not allowed to ride the activity bus. Transportation will be the responsibility of the parent. SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES & SERVICES COMPUTER LABS Computer Labs at Frost are open during SOAR and after school under teacher supervision to assist students in accomplishing class-related work. Guidelines for Use Out of respect for the equipment and the other students who need to rely on the technology, follow these procedures for lab use: 1. Students may enter and use the computer lab when it is open and a teacher is present for supervision. 2. When a student enters any computer lab, place all books under your computer chair or under a desk if available. 3. After entering the lab, all students should wait until the teacher gives further instructions. 4. All students should touch only the computer they are working on. 5. If printing, please remove all work from the printer. 6. RECYCLE all paper and put trash in the proper bin. 7. NO GUM, FOOD, CANDY OR DRINKS ARE ALLOWED IN THE COMPUTER LAB. 8. If a student has an assignment that they have not finished, they may go to a computer lab during SOAR. 9. Students should immediately bring to the attention of the supervising adult, any damage to the computer, mouse or keyboard as well as any inappropriate “Bookmarks” or “Favorites” observed on the computer. Lab Rules At Robert Frost Middle School students have access to a high speed connection to the Internet for educational purposes only. This means that they should not be used to access or create materials that don’t belong to the school. This includes, but is not limited to, falsifying information, using others’ passwords, violent images and messages that are sexually explicit. Please be aware that the privilege of computer use at Frost depends on the student’s ability to use them correctly. A student may lose that privilege if he/she is unable to act responsibly. 15 COUNSELING SERVICES The counselors at Frost are here to help in many ways. Counselors are available to assist in the development and achievement of academic and social goals. They are available to discuss school or personal concerns with confidentiality maintained. Students are encouraged to visit their counselor by signing in with the counseling secretary requesting an appointment. Students must have a pass from the classroom teacher to visit a counselor during class time. HEALTH ROOM Other than emergencies, students must have a note signed by a staff member before going to the health room. The health room staff will determine the type of treatment and the length of stay. Parents will be contacted if the health room staff feels the student should be picked up for dismissal. No medicine will be administered in school or during school sponsored activities without the parent’s/guardian’s written authorization and a written physician order. This includes both prescription and over the counter medications. Please refer to MCPS form 525-13 for further information. S.O.A.R. Student Opportunities for Achievement and Relationship-building (SOAR) is a time for students to receive additional academic support. SOAR is a 20 minute period on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings. This period may include the following options. Receive re-teaching and reassessment Complete missing assignments Work independently or in groups Read silently Build relationships with staff and peers Participate in structured physical activities Students must arrive at their destination on time or be subject to administrative consequence. LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER The Library Media Center at Frost is the school’s information bank. It contains books and audiovisual materials and a computer learning hub that students will need for class assignments as well as recreational reading materials. The center will be open for individual and group use from 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. on school days, unless otherwise notified. An orientation to the library media center will provide more specific details pertaining to library media center procedures. NOW READING AND SUPER TEAM Now Reading, usually held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, is a school-wide reading program that promotes lifelong readers. Students and staff spend approximately twenty minutes reading appropriate materials of their choice. Along with NOW Reading, eighth grade students participate in a cluster-wide vertical articulation program called “Super Team”. Super Team aims to increase student achievement in the articulation and transition from 8th to 9th grade by fostering positive relationships between middle school and high school students and staff. This also promotes the continuous development of academic and social skills to assure a successful transition. PARENT/TEACHER STUDENT ASSOCIATION (PTSA) The PTSA plays an important role at Frost and we hope that students will encourage their parents to attend PTSA functions. PTSA meetings are generally scheduled for the second Tuesday of the month. Meeting dates are announced in the PTSA newsletter, The Frost Informer. Students, parents and staff may subscribe to the on-line PTSA newsletter by going to : www.robertfrostpta.org 16 STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION (SGA) The SGA is an organization of students for students. It functions to promote the general welfare of students, to serve the community and to represent the students in communicating with the faculty and administration. Student involvement is the key to an effective SGA. STUDENT SERVICE LEARNING (SSL) Students must complete and document 75 service-learning hours to graduate high school in Maryland. All service must be performed with a MCPS SSL approved organization. MCPS SSL approved organizations and opportunities are identified with a graduation cap icon at the website www.mcpsssl.org. Students interested in earning service-learning hours with organizations that are not identified with a graduation cap icon on the website must submit MCPS Form 560-50 (Individual Student Service Learning (SSL) Request) to the school-based SSL coordinator in advance of any service. SSL hours completed at organizations not on the MCPS SSL approved list or not approved in advance of service will not be accepted for SSL credit. All service learning must be performed with a nonprofit tax-exempt organization. One service-learning hour is awarded for every hour of service outside of the instructional day. A maximum of 8 hours may be earned in a 24-hour period. All service-learning activities must be secular in nature, occur in a public place and be supervised by a nonprofit organization adult representative. Parents or relatives cannot serve as supervisors for their child or relative. The Superintendent’s Student Service Learning Award is given to students who have documented in their service-learning record 75 hours of service by the first Friday in April of a middle school year. Students should keep copies of all paperwork for their records. SSL Due Dates The due date for SSL hours performed during the summer is the last Friday in September. The due date for SSL hours performed during the first semester is the first Friday in January. The due date for SSL hours performed during the second semester is the first Friday in June. 17 DISCIPLINE POLICY AND PROCEDURES Robert Frost Middle School’s staff is committed to creating and maintaining a safe and nurturing learning environment where everyone is valued and respected and success is everyone’s responsibility. The school staff will respect the rights of individuals while taking the responsibility for seeing that students follow school and county disciplinary procedures. Our discipline policy is intended to provide the framework through which every student will be afforded the opportunity to “Experience Excellence.” Robert Frost Middle School’s Discipline Program Philosophy: All students are capable of behaving appropriately Misbehavior is a matter of choice A student will accept responsibility for his/her actions Teachers have a right and responsibility to teach Students have a right and responsibility to learn No student should prevent a teacher from teaching or a student from learning Respect must be shown at all times to all students and staff members of the Frost community Appeals An appeal procedure is available to all students and is discussed in the pamphlet Student Rights and Responsibilities. 18 DISCIPLINE INFRACTIONS Academic Integrity and Dishonesty Robert Frost Middle School highly values academic integrity. Any work submitted by a student must represent his/her own efforts. Some examples of dishonesty: copying someone else’s homework, giving work to someone to copy, concealing information to be used during a test, talking during a test, copying a report from a book or the Internet and handing it in as one’s own, or copying answers during a test. Any type of dishonesty, verbal or written (e.g. lying, forging a note), is unacceptable. When a student has misrepresented the facts in a disciplinary situation, a penalty for dishonesty will be added to the consequences. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: teacher student conference, loss of credit, and/or suspension Arson Setting or attempting to set a fire in the school or on school property. Maryland State Law covers these acts. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: suspension, police referral, expulsion Bullying Bullying, harassment, or intimidation means intentional conduct, including verbal, physical, or written conduct or an intentional electronic communication that creates a hostile educational environment by substantially interfering with a student’s educational benefits, opportunities, or performance, or with a student’s physical or psychological well-being. Parents and victims can formally document incidents on the MCPS Form 230-5, Bullying, Harassment, or Intimidation Reporting Form, which is available on the MCPS website at: http://www.montgomery schoolsmd.org/departments/forms/pdf/230-35.pdf Consequences may include, but are not limited to: teacher/student conference, police referral, suspension, expulsion Cell Phones, Portable Communication Devices and Cameras Students may possess cell phones during the school day and during school sponsored activities. It will be the students’ responsibility to ensure that the device is turned off and out of sight during unauthorized times of use. If a staff member sees a cell phone during the instructional day, they may confiscate the phone from the student. The cell phone shall be returned to the student at the end of the instructional day. In the event of subsequent incidents, the cell phone will be returned to parents. Students may not turn on their phones to make a call, text, instant message or communicate in any manner until the official end of the instructional day. Use of cell phones while riding to and from school on MCPS buses is also permitted as long as it does not impact the safe operation of the school bus. Cell phones may not be used by students on MCPS and commercially chartered buses used for school sponsored activities during the official instructional day. No student may, at any time, use a portable communication device in a manner that is profane, indecent, or obscene, or constitutes an invasion of privacy. Examples of this include, but are not limited to, photographs or text messages. Students may not use camera phones to take pictures of other students, staff member or visitors without their verbal consent. If pictures are taken without consent this is considered to be a violation of privacy. The school will not be responsible for replacing any lost or stolen cell phones/electronic communication devices. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: confiscation of device, parent contact, suspension 19 Class Cutting Students are expected to be in each scheduled class unless officially excused. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: administrative referral, detention, suspension E-reader Policy The use of an E-reader falls under MCPS User Responsibilities for Computer Systems, Electronic Information, and Network Security, (IGT-RA). Access from personal devices to the school network is prohibited. The use of an E-reader is for reading purposes only and is not to be a distraction in any way to teachers or students. Students may use E-readers during NOW Reading, SOAR, Lunch, or any other time as allowed or directed by their teacher or staff member. Consequences for Misuse/Disruption will result in the E-reader being taken and stored in the main office until a parent or guardian picks it up. Continued Misuse/Disruption may result in administrative action. Robert Frost Middle School and MCPS will not be responsible for lost, misplaced, or stolen Ereaders. Guidelines for Student Use of E-readers Inscribe or mark your name on your E-reader. Maintaining the serial number of your device may be helpful in identifying it, if misplaced. Make no attempts to circumvent the school network security and/or filtering policies, including downloading programs to bypass security. Do not take pictures or video of students or staff without their permission. Exercise discretion when sharing your E-reader with friends and classmates. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: confiscation of device, suspension Computer Use At Robert Frost Middle School students have access to a high speed connection to the internet. Access to the internet is for educational purposes only and every student is expected to use it correctly and responsibly. This means that students should not use school computers to access or create materials that don’t belong at school. This includes, but is not limited to, falsifying information, using others passwords, violent images and messages that are sexually explicit. Please be aware that the privilege of computer use at Frost depends on the student’s ability to use them correctly. A student may lose that privilege if he/she is unable to act responsibly. See Page 20. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: administrative warning for loss of computer privileges, suspension, police notification, expulsion Dangerous and Disruptive Items Items such as chains, firecrackers, laser pens, smoke or cherry bombs, poppers, and other exploding or noise-making items are strictly prohibited. Items such as rubber bands or paper clips may only be used in ways for which they are intended. They may not be used in ways that could cause harm to another. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: confiscation, parent contact, suspension Detention After School When a staff member has assigned a student after school detention, the student will be given 24 hours notice unless other arrangements have been made. Staff will contact parents to inform them of the detention and to make any necessary transportation arrangements. The student is expected to report on the day, at the assigned time and place determined by the staff member. Failure to serve a detention will result in further disciplinary actions. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: parent contact, suspension 20 Disruptive and Disrespectful Behavior Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that is not disruptive to the school learning environment. Examples include but not limited to: play fighting, inappropriate language, taking and hiding someone’s books, etc. Substitute staff members and guests must be treated with the same respect and consideration due to all staff. Cooperative and appropriate behavior is expected in the halls, classrooms, and during non-classroom activities such as assemblies, athletic events, lunch, Now Reading, SOAR and after school activities. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: teacher-student conference, suspension Dress Policy It is our expectation that students shall dress appropriately for school. Schools are public facilities and a place of business. Apparel or appearance which tends to draw attention to an individual, rather than to a learning situation is discouraged. Clothing and personal items, such as bandanas, spiked wrist bands, headbands, etc. which promote or support alcohol, drugs, gangs, profanity, sexual conduct, and violence will not be worn on campus or at any school sponsored activity. Overly revealing clothing is not considered appropriate. (No under garments should be visible.) Students are not allowed to wear hats, visors, or hoods inside the school building. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: administrative referral, change of clothes, suspension Drugs/Alcohol/Intoxicants The possession of drugs, drug paraphernalia and intoxicating beverages is illegal and prohibited anywhere on school property. This regulation also applies to all school activities off school grounds. Distribution of intoxicants is also prohibited. All items will be confiscated and turned over to the police. Consequences may include, but not limited to: suspension, parent conference, police notification Eating/Drinking in Inappropriate Places All food and beverages (bottled/canned juice, water, etc.) must be consumed in the cafeteria unless approved by a teacher or administrator. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: teacher-student conference, administrative counseling, detention Extortion Extortion (attempting to secure money or property through threats of physical harm, explicit or suggested) is not permitted. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: parent conference, suspension, expulsion False Fire Alarm Any student who pulls a fire alarm without legitimate cause will be subject to immediate disciplinary action. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: suspension and police referral, expulsion Fighting Unless it is clearly a case of an unprovoked attack by one person on another, anyone involved in a fight will face a consequence. The persons directly involved in a fight will receive generally the same consequence. Any student who believes a fight may occur should seek immediate help from an administrator, counselor or teacher as a preventative measure. 21 Consequences may include, but are not limited to: in-school suspension with a telephone call to parents, suspension Firearms (knowledge of) Students who have knowledge of firearms on school property and do not disclose this information to an administrator may be subject to the same penalty as the person who has the firearm. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: administrative conference, police referral, recommendation for expulsion Gum Chewing Students are not permitted to chew gum in some classes; each teacher’s decision is respected. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: teacher-student conference, after school detention Hall Conduct Students are expected to walk and behave appropriately in the halls at all times. Students must stay to the right on the staircases. Disruptive behavior such as running, pushing, tripping, knocking over books, or hitting another student in either a playful or deliberately harmful way is unacceptable. Voice levels should remain low while in the halls. Students must continue to move their classrooms in order to maintain the flow of traffic. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: teacher-student conference, suspension Harassment/Teasing The act of teasing or harassing another person is unacceptable if the other person has indicated they want to be left alone. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: teacher-student conference, parent conference, suspension Insubordination Insubordination is defying or not doing what is requested by a school official (any staff member or substitute) unless the request is clearly unreasonable or dangerous. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: administrative conference, parent conference, suspension Leaving School Grounds Without Permission Students must remain on school grounds at all times. Students must be under adult supervision when outside the school building (e.g. playing fields). Consequences may include, but are not limited to: administrative conference, parent contact, suspension Loitering and Afterschool Activities Students must be in a supervised school activity in order to remain in the building or on school grounds before or after school. No one should be in an area or room without teacher supervision. Students should not remain after school to use the athletic courts or fields unless supervised by a sponsoring staff member. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: administrative conference, parent contact, suspension 22 Physical Attack An act of physically assaulting a staff member, visiting adult, or student on school grounds or in conjunction with school activities will not be tolerated and will result in severe disciplinary action. Any violent physical attack on a staff member, visiting adult, or student, will result in recommendation for expulsion. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: suspension, police referral, recommendation for expulsion Profanity/Obscenity The use of profane or obscene language and acts or actions considered obscene has no place in the school or during school-related activities. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken. Actions deemed inappropriate or in poor taste are also discouraged. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: teacher-student conference, parent contact, suspension Public Displays of Affection Kissing, hugging, and other intimate acts, are not permitted during the school day or at extra-curricular events. Teachers will inform students of actions that are inappropriate and will communicate concerns to the parents and/or administration. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: teacher-student conference, suspension Selling of Merchandise No one is permitted to sell any merchandise on school grounds without prior administrative approval. This includes selling candy, gum, cards, stickers, drinks, etc. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: teacher-student conference, suspension Sexual Harassment The act of unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual favors and/or other inappropriate verbal, written, or physical conduct of a sexual nature that takes place against another person is considered sexual harassment. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: administrative conference, police referral, expulsion Skateboards/Rollerblades Skateboards and rollerblades are not to be used at school. If you choose to ride a skateboard or rollerblades to school, please place it in your locker upon arrival. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: confiscated and returned to student and/or parent, suspension Smoking/Tobacco (Use or Possession) Smoking/tobacco use (chewing) is not permitted. One is considered to be smoking if observed holding a lighted cigarette, exhaling smoke, having a lighted cigarette in his/her mouth, or found behind an obstruction from which smoke was observed. Cigarettes, other tobacco-related items, lighters and matches are not permitted on school grounds. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: parent conference, suspension 23 Throwing Objects Throwing objects such as but not limited to food, snowballs, pencils, pens, etc. is prohibited on school property. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: detention, suspension Sound/Electronic Equipment The use of portable music players, MP3 players, IPods, games, and all other electronic equipment is not permitted on school grounds. The school will not be responsible for replacing any lost or stolen sound/electronic equipment devices. (Calculators and hand computers are permitted.) Consequences may include, but are not limited to: confiscation, parent contact, suspension Tardiness Students are to be in their assigned class areas before the late bell rings. Unexcused tardiness to class is unacceptable at any time and chronic tardiness will result in an administrative referral. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: teacher-assigned detention, parent conference, detention Theft The taking of anything or the attempt to take anything, without the owner’s consent is prohibited. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: parent contact, restitution, compensation, police referral, parent conference Toys/Other Disruptive and Inappropriate Items Toys and other inappropriate items should not be brought to school. Items such as, but not limited to, laser light pens, water guns, athletic equipment, playing cards used for gambling, collectible cards, calculators used for games and electronic games will be confiscated. The school is not responsible if items are brought to school and then lost or stolen . Consequences may include, but are not limited to: item confiscated, suspension Trespassing By school board regulation, any person who does not have a lawful purpose at Frost will be notified by the principal or designee to leave school grounds. As stated in discipline section of the Student Rights and Responsibilities, students suspended from school are not permitted on school grounds unless authorized by the principal or designee. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: conference, police notification Vandalism Any type of vandalism to school property such as graffiti and destruction (or the attempt of) school property is prohibited. Students are liable for the repair or replacement of any school property or personal property belonging to another person, damaged, destroyed, or lost. This includes books, supplies, lockers, etc. issued to the student as well as the school’s facilities and equipment. In any such case, the student will be referred to the office until a parent conference can be held and suspension may be warranted. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: detention, police referral, recommendation for expulsion 24 Verbal Abuse/Threats Verbal abuse is defined as intimidating, insulting or in any manner abusing verbally a member of the school community. Also, this includes profanity and obscene language towards a staff member. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: parent conference, suspension, recommendation for expulsion Weapons (Other than firearms) Articles such as knives, or other implements that could be used to hurt someone are prohibited. If a student accidentally brings a knife to school, he/she should report it to the principal immediately. Consequences may include, but are not limited to: suspension, police referral, recommendation for expulsion 25 MCPS SCHOOL CALENDAR FOR 2014–2015 26
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