SYCAMORE MIDDLE SCHOOL Student & Parent Handbook 2016­2017 1125 Sycamore St Gridley, California 95948 Telephone: (530) 846­3636 Fax: (530) 846­6796 http://sycamore.gusd/org https://www.facebook.com/sycamoremiddleschool Twitter: @sycamorebullpup Home of the Bullpups Sycamore Middle School Administration Principal Clint Johnson Assistant Principal Cynthia Soares Updated 08/11/2016
0 GRIDLEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT MISSION STATEMENT: The Gridley schools are dedicated to ensuring a quality education in a safe, nurturing environment that produces responsible, compassionate individuals by providing a relevant curriculum enabling all students to become productive citizens strengthened by the small­town quality of life. GRIDLEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 429 Magnolia Street, CA 95948 (530) 846­4721 Fax (530) 846­4595 ​http://www.gusd.org BOARD OF TRUSTEES Mr. Eric Waterbury, President Mrs. Kathy Wheeler, Clerk Mrs. Stacy Anthony Mr. Art Cota Mrs. Lena Sannar Mrs. Kirsten Storne­Piazza Mrs. Adriana McConnell SUPERINTENDENT Mr. Jordan Reeves SYCAMORE MIDDLE SCHOOL STAFF PRINCIPAL Clint Johnson ​[email protected] ASSISTANT­PRINCIPAL/SCHOOL COUNSELOR Cynthia Soares ​[email protected] SCHOOL COUNSELOR Veronica Brown ​[email protected] SECRETARY Lourdes Delgado ​[email protected] OFFICE CLERK Angelica Hernandez ​[email protected] MEDIA CLERK Janine Akin ​[email protected] Updated 08/11/2016
1 TEACHERS Cheryl Argetsinger ​[email protected]
Amber Melton ​[email protected] Elizabeth Ayon ​[email protected]
Shelia Nichols ​[email protected] Jodi Burr ​[email protected]
Margo Peery­Johnson ​[email protected] Jayson Denman ​[email protected]
Roger Rich ​[email protected] Michael Erickson ​[email protected]
Paul Robertson ​[email protected] Margaret Hepworth ​[email protected] Matt Sakai ​[email protected] Ben Jordan ​[email protected]​ Christine Santerre ​[email protected] Austin King ​[email protected] Andrew Sharrock ​[email protected] Deanne King ​[email protected]
Michelle Solis ​[email protected] Suzanne King ​[email protected] Jamie Spring ​[email protected] Grace Mahannah ​[email protected]​ Heather Yost ​[email protected] Rebecca McCarthy ​[email protected] WELCOME TO SYCAMORE MIDDLE SCHOOL The administration and staff would like to take this opportunity to welcome students and parents to Sycamore Middle School. The information in this handbook has been carefully prepared to help students succeed at Sycamore. The support staff, teachers, and administrators are all here to serve our students. Sycamore Middle School is a safe and caring educational environment where students gain knowledge and self­confidence. Students and faculty take pride in achievement for all. Sycamore produces motivated and engaged learners. Our school is a place where students can expand their dreams and gain the courage and skills to become successful citizens in the 21​st​ century. We are proud to be honored by the state of California as a Gold Ribbon School for our Academic and Behavior Response to Intervention Model. On occasion, informative flyers and calendar of events from our District and School are mailed and/or given to students to bring home. We will also have our website updated continuously to keep families informed at http://sycamore.gusd.org​. You can also visit our facebook page https://www.facebook.com/sycamoremiddleschool​, or follow us on Twitter at @sycamorebullpup. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to educate your child and never hesitate to stop into the office to meet with me. Sincerely, Clint Johnson, Principal Updated 08/11/2016
2 School­Wide Behavior Expectations The main focus of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is to provide ​a clear system for all expected behaviors at Sycamore Middle School (SMS). Sycamore Middle School will provide a positive, safe, healthy, nurturing, and respectful environment in which all students have the opportunity to progress academically and to become productive members of society. PBIS is a researched based system which aims to decrease behavioral infractions showing year­over­year improvement. PBIS assists towards this end as it is based upon the concept of teaching behaviors that will prevent noncompliance. The implementation of PBIS promotes the following: ● Communication and collaboration between administration, staff, families, and community ● Maintenance of an open ended flexible approach through the use of a data driven informational system ● Educationally sound methods that foster student character, safety, academic excellence, and individual citizenship ● Scholarly behavior Behavioral Expectations Are: 1. The Bullpup Scholar Commitments:​ A small number of clearly defined behavioral expectations defined in positive, simple guidelines. ●
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R​espect​ ​for self, others and surroundings H​onor​able​ ​to self and others S​uccess​ ​for all ●
​2. ​Behavioral expectations are taught​: The behavioral expectations are taught to all students on campus, and are taught in real contexts. Teaching appropriate behavior involves much more than simply telling students what behaviors they should avoid. The following are only examples: Respect for self, others, and surroundings: 1. Being ​respectful means waiting your turn to speak. 2. Being ​respectful means using a person’s name when you talk to him or her. Honorable to self and others 1.
Being ​honorable means telling the truth. 2.
Being ​honorable means cleaning up after yourself. Success for all 1.
Being ​successful means being prepared with assignments and materials. 2.
Being ​successful means positive and helpful interaction with others in the Sycamore School community. Behavioral expectations are taught using the same teaching formats applied to other curricula. The general rule is presented, the reason for the rule is discussed, positive examples (“right way”) are described and rehearsed, and negative examples (“wrong way”) are described and modeled. ​Students are given an opportunity to practice the “right way” until they demonstrate fluent performance. Updated 08/11/2016
3 ​ 3. ​Appropriate behaviors are acknowledged​:​ Once appropriate behaviors have been defined and taught, they will be acknowledged on a regular basis. Sycamore Middle School will notice and support positive behaviors. Students will be reinforced by individual teachers when demonstrating “Being a Bullpup Scholar” as a tool of encouragement and a student motivator. ​ 4. ​Behavioral errors are corrected proactively​:​ When students violate behavioral expectations, clear procedures are needed for providing information to them that their behavior was unacceptable and preventing that unacceptable behavior from being perceived as rewarding to them. Students, teachers, and administrators all should be able to predict what will occur when behavioral errors are identified. Classroom Teacher Responsibilities 1. Teachers define, teach, model, and practice each of the Bullpup Scholar behavioral expectations. 2. Teachers display and use the classroom expectations​ ​based upon the Bullpup Scholar expectations. 3. Teachers implement targeted classroom interventions consistently and with fidelity every day. 4. Teachers develop and/or use PBIS established strategies for recognizing students who meet and/or exceed Bullpup Scholar behaviors school­wide and classroom expectations using recognition programs. Staff Personnel Responsibilities 1. Staff personnel are defined as all adults with supervisory authority, including those assigned to hall duty, lunch duty, bus duty, and all teachers whose students are in attendance at assemblies. 2. All classroom teachers are involved as supervisors at various points within the school day and/or school year. 3. Staff personnel circulate among students and observe students to see that they are meeting school­wide expectations in all non­classroom settings of the school. 4. Staff personnel talk with students and provide feedback based on the school ­wide expectations. 6. Staff personnel develop and/or use PBIS established strategies for recognizing students who meet and/or exceed schoolwide and classroom expectations. Positive Supports The Student of the Month:​ This program has been established to recognize the many ways students strive to uphold the Bullpup Scholar Commitments of Respect, Honor, and Success as well as other positive qualities. On a monthly basis, teachers nominate students whom they feel best exemplify being a Scholar using the criteria of: Respect, Honor, and Success. All students who are nominated are provided certificates to acknowledge this accomplishment and attend the Student of the Month Lunch. Honor Roll Bingo:​ Honor Roll Bingo will occur three­times a school year, after the first, second, and third quarter respectively. Students earning a grade point average of a 3.0 or higher will attend Bingo festivities. Planner checks:​ The Principal and Assistant Principal will randomly select six students, once a week on a different unannounced day each week, checking for completed planners. Bullpup Bucks:​ “Bucks” that can be cashed in immediately at the snack bar or held and combined with cash to buy items at the student store. Bullpup Bucks are unexpected and unannounced, they are open to all and are a “thank you” for expected positive behavior. Praise Report:​ A ticket students are given when Sycamore staff notice a student is being a Sycamore Scholar. Students take home for a parent signature and bring back for a weekly drawing. Updated 08/11/2016
4 Parent Postcards:​ A postcard mailed home acknowledging a student’s outstanding work and/or academic improvement. Attendance Recognition: ​ Research demonstrates that attendance is critical to students success academically, behaviorally, and socially. Therefore, we will recognize students efforts in consistently being at school, on time, ready to learn. Awards Ceremony:​ In late May, Sycamore Staff will acknowledge various students for their academic and behavioral success. STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES Discipline and order are essential in the successful operation of a school. In our school we strive to develop self­discipline through the use of properly supervised student organizations and the teaching of good citizenship and scholarship. The goal is for students to become valued and valuable members of the school community. Sycamore Middle School students are expected to abide by all laws, follow all school rules, and behave in a responsible manner. Students are expected to respect the authority of all staff and immediately respond to all directions given by them. Students are also expected to respect the rights and property of others. ANTI­BULLYING POLICY In accordance with Board Policy, Sycamore Middle School administration and staff are sensitive to and concerned about incidences of bullying on campus. We can only effectively stop bullying when we are made aware of the situation when it first develops.​ ​Please, if you are aware of a situation involving bullying, contact Sycamore’s Administration, School Counselor, or your student’s teachers. Sycamore Middle School prohibits bullying at any location or activity under the jurisdiction of the school system. Any student who engages in bullying may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. If the complainant or the parent of the student feels that appropriate resolution of the investigation or complaint has not been reached, the student or the parent of the student should contact the Principal. The school system prohibits retaliatory behavior against any complainant or any participant in the complaint process. Bullying: ​When one or more people repeatedly harm, harass, intimidate, or exclude others. Bullying is unfair and one­sided. ​Cyberbullying: ​Is the same as above but includes “using technology” including but not limited to cell phones, computers, tablets, or any other handheld or gaming device. Examples could be through words or actions, including but not limited to: 1. direct physical contact such as hitting or shoving 2. verbal assaults such as teasing or name­calling 3. socially isolating or manipulating a student Specific Examples: 1. Making unsolicited written, verbal, physical, and/or visual contact. Examples include: a. written­intimidating/threatening letters, notes, or messages b. verbal­intimidating/threatening comments, slurs, innuendos, teasing, jokes, or epithets c. visual­leering or gestures d. physical­hitting, slapping, kicking, and/or pinching 2. Making reprisals, threats of reprisal, or implied threats of reprisal. 3. Engaging in implicit or explicit coercive behavior to control, influence or affect the health and well­being of a student. These incidents will be acted on when they occur: a. on the school grounds at any time Updated 08/11/2016
5 b. en route to and from school or a school­sponsored activity c. during lunch period d. during or while going to or coming from a school­sponsored activity Confidentiality​­Reasonable efforts will be made to keep a report of bullying and the results of the investigation confidential. Witness should be informed of the confidential nature of the investigation and should be asked to refrain from disclosing the nature of the investigation to others. Retaliation Prohibited​­The initiation of a report of bullying should not reflect on the reporting student or witnesses in any way. It should not affect the student’s future relationship with the school system, grades, classes, or other matters pertaining to his/her status as a student in any program. It is a violation of this policy to engage in such retaliation. BELL SCHEDULE Regular Bell Schedule Warning Bell Minimum Day Bell Schedule Warning Bell 8:14 Wednesday 8:14 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 1st Period 8:17 ­ 9:10 1st Period ​8:17 – 9:04 2nd Period 9:13 ­10:04 2nd Period ​9:05 – 9:50 3rd Period 10:09 ­11:00 3rd Period 9:53 –10:38 4th Period 11:03 ­11:54 4th Period 10:41– 11:26 Lunch­ 6th Grade only 11:54 ­12:39 6th Period 11:29­ 12:14 5th Period­ 7/8 grade only 11:57 ­12:39 Lunch 6th­8th 12:14­12:59 Lunch­⅞ grade only ​12:39 ­ 1:24 7th Period 1:02­ 1:47 5th Period­6th only ​12:42 ­1:24 6th Period 1:27 ­2:18 7th Period 2:21 ­3:12 ​ATTENDANCE Regular attendance is essential to successful schoolwork. The cafeteria is open every day at 7:30 a.m. and the campus opens at 8 a.m. Absences and tardiness result in poor grades and may delay graduation. Only an absence due to any one or more of the following causes, when verified, is considered excused: 1. Illness or injury Updated 08/11/2016
6 2. Quarantine directed by a county or city health official 3. Appointment with doctors, dentists, and optometrists 4. Attending funeral services of a member of the immediate family 5. Court obligations ABSENCES/TRUANCIES TRUANCY­ Ca. Ed. Code 48260 defines truancy as any unexcused absence for more than 30 minutes during the school day. 1. When a student is absent, the parent is to call the attendance clerk at 846­3636 ext. 200​. 2. Excessive truancies or tardies may result in a referral to a Student Attendance Review Board (SARB), which may determine the student's future educational placement. 3. The student’s parent or guardian must either write a note or call the school explaining the reason for the absence. Notes must indicate the date(s) of absence, the reason for the absence, and his/her parent's/guardian’s signature. Sycamore will only issue excused absences or tardies that have been written or phoned in by the student’s parent/guardian. The school must receive a note or phone call no later than 24 hours following the absence for it to be excused. 4. Excessive absences will result in a letter sent to parents and student stating the concerns. Parents and the student may be required to meet with an administrator for a conference to discuss attendance issues. 5. Students will remain on campus all day until school is dismissed, unless their parent or guardian officially checks them out through the office. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action. 6. Students are required to attend a full day of school to participate in after school events, which may include but are not limited to dances, athletic events, banquets, and promotion ceremony. Students who miss part of the school day and have a valid excuse from one of the five reasons listed above under attendance will be exempt from this rule. TARDIES A tardy may be issued to students that are not in their assigned classes and in their assigned seats when the tardy bell rings. Should a student be 30 or more minutes late, the student will be issued a Truant Tardy, unless the reason for being late is excused. Being tardy does impact a student’s learning and grades. ILLNESS Students becoming ill during the school day should report to the nurse's office in the front office of the school. Students should not text or call parents from a cell phone.​ If there is a necessity to go home, the health aide or secretary will inform the parent, and the student will be released to the parent. If the procedure is not followed and the student leaves campus without properly checking out, the student’s absence will be considered truant. "After the fact" excuses will not be accepted. Students must also have a note from a parent if they cannot participate in organized sports. If the injury or illness lasts longer than three (3) days, the student must bring a note from a doctor to excuse him/her from P.E. SPECIAL EDUCATION Students become eligible for special education services through a formalized process of evaluation. When a student has a struggle learning, the school needs to coordinate a meeting to determine the best, in­school intervention possible. Staff need to collect data to determine if the student has responded to the intervention(s), this process may take time depending on individual circumstances. Once all interventions have been exhausted and documented through a Student Success Team meeting(s), parents may chose to request an evaluation in writing. Requests will receive a response from the school within 15 calendar days. If recommended, Updated 08/11/2016
7 assessments will take place within 60 calendar days of the initial request. If an assessment is not recommended, the Study Success Team will explain their reasoning in writing. Once a student has been assessed, an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting is held to determine a student’s eligibility for services. NON­DISCRIMINATION The Governing Board of the Gridley Unified School District is committed to equal opportunity for all individuals in education. Gridley Unified School District programs and activities do not discriminate on the basis of gender, gender identity, age, sex, race, color, religion, ancestry, gender expression, national origin, ethnic group identification, marital or parental status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation or the perception of one or more of such characteristics. The Board shall promote programs, which ensure that discriminatory practices are eliminated in all district activities. The following individuals represent the appropriate titles for communication process: 1.
Title IX Officer: Superintendent, Mr. Jordan Reeves: 530­846­4721 ext 28 2.
504 Coordinator: Cindy Kershaw: 530­846­4383 UNIFORM COMPLIANCE PROCEDURES Sycamore Middle School has the primary responsibility to insure compliance with applicable state and federal laws and regulations and has established procedures to address allegations of unlawful discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying, and complaints alleging violation of state or federal laws governing educational programs and the charging of unlawful pupil fees. Sycamore Middle School shall investigate and seek to resolve complaints using policies and procedures known as the Uniform Complaint Procedures (UCP) adopted by our local board. Unlawful discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or bullying complaints may be based on actual or perceived age, ancestry, color, ethnic group identification, gender expression, gender identity, gender, disability, nationality, national origin, race or ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or on a person’s association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics, in any program or activity that receives or benefits from state financial assistance. The UCP shall also be used when addressing complaints alleging failure to comply with state and/or federal laws in: Adult Education, Consolidated Categorical Aid Programs Migrant Education, Career Technical and Technical Education and Training Programs Child Nutrition Programs, Special Education Programs Safety Planning Requirements A complaint of noncompliance with laws relating to pupil fees may be filed pursuant to the local UCP. A pupil enrolled in a public school shall not be required to pay a pupil fee for participation in an educational activity. A pupil fee includes, but not limited to, all of the following: 1. A fee charged to a pupil as a condition for registering for school or classes, or as a condition for participation in class or an extracurricular activity, regardless of whether the class or activity is elective or compulsory, or is for credit. Updated 08/11/2016
8 2. A security deposit, or other payment, that a pupil is required to make to obtain a lock, locker, book, class apparatus, musical instrument, clothes, or other materials or equipment. 3. A purchase that a pupil is required to make to obtain materials, supplies, equipment, or clothes associated with an education activity. Complaints other than complaints relating to pupil fees must be filed in writing with the following compliance officer: Mr. Clint Johnson, Principal Sycamore Middle School (530) 846­3636 1125 Sycamore St. Gridley, CA 95948 STUDENT PARTICIPATION OPPORTUNITIES STUDENT BODY CARDS Student body cards will be available for every student after pictures are taken in the fall. It is highly recommended that all students attend picture day. Students who miss picture day can attend makeup picture. Student Body Cards can be used by students to receive discounts at certain events. ATHLETICS POLICY Sycamore Middle School offers a wide range of sports for our students. Students may try out for flag football, soccer, volleyball, basketball, and track. Sycamore Middle School encourages students to participate in athletics. This is an interscholastic program that is an integral part of the total education system. Our athletic program supports the highest development level of all participants and promotes high standards of ethics, sportsmanship, and personal conduct by encouraging student­athletes, coaches, staff, administration, and community to commit to these high standards. Athletics will provide students the opportunity to develop school pride and spirit, and will teach them the value of teamwork through their involvement. Participation in the athletic program is considered a privilege. Students will earn this privilege through satisfactory performances in both academics and citizenship. To be eligible to participate in any sport students must meet the academic and behavioral requirements, have parental consent, and approval from a medical examiner. The following eligibility rules apply to all students participating in athletics at Sycamore Middle School: 1. ​All students involved with athletic teams are required to maintain a 2.0 GPA or C average with no “F’s”. Progress reports and report card grades will determine an athlete’s eligibility. If an athlete is determined ineligible, they will​ not ​be eligible to practice, travel with, suit up, or participate with the team in any athletic games. Students may participate in tryouts for the next sport if they are ineligible during the current sport but must be eligible when the next sport begins in order to participate. 2. ​Students not receiving at least a 2.0 average with no “F’s” at the end of the last quarter of the school year will be considered ineligible for the first sport or activity of the school year. This does not Updated 08/11/2016
9 exclude students from trying out for an athletic team. The first progress report grades will determine a student’s eligibility status. 3. ​Along with being a good student academically, athletes are also expected to display the Sycamore Scholar behaviors of Respect, Honor, and Success. Any suspensions from school lack of scholarly behavior may make the student ineligible for the next game(s) or activity(ies), depending on the severity of the offense. 4. ​Sometimes it is necessary to remove a student from a sport for various reasons. It is recommended when this measure is being considered, the student, parent and or administrator discuss the issue with the coach and/or Athletic Director. AFTER SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS Students are to return home after school. Students may remain on campus after school only if officially participating in a supervised activity such as athletics, music groups, after school detention, tutoring or the afterschool program, etc. STUDENT GOVERNMENT The student council is the governing body of Sycamore Middle School students. It is charged with the responsibility of furthering the interest and welfare of the school and each student. The student council consists of the President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, Publicity Chair, Historian, Spirit Leader and representatives. School­wide elections are held for each of these positions at the end of the school year for the following school year. DANCES School dances are generally held from 4:30­6:30p.m. on Wednesday’s and are for Sycamore Middle School students only​, ​guests are not allowed. Students who leave the dance are not permitted to return. Parents are welcomed without invitation to all Sycamore Middle School dances and should contact the school to get on the chaperone list prior to the dance. Students must be picked up immediately at the conclusion of the dance. ACTIVITIES CONDUCT The fact that a student is a member of the Sycamore Middle School student body makes him/her a representative of our school. People and students of this and other communities will judge your school by your actions. This is particularly true on the athletic field and in the cheering section. It is very important conduct is that of a Sycamore Scholar at all times. Failure to act properly may result in removal from the event and further disciplinary action. RULES GOVERNING SCHOOL FUNCTIONS Extracurricular activities sponsored by the student body or other groups must be held on campus or property contracted by the school for specific school functions. Appropriate behavior and attire required for regular school attendance is also required for all extracurricular functions held on or off campus. ACADEMICS Updated 08/11/2016
10 The report card is the final indicator of student achievement, the best method to gain an understanding of student achievement is stay connected through our “Parent Portal” on a regular and consistent basis. Parents and students are encouraged to access student grades and attendance via the internet through our Parent Portal. Steps on accessing our “Parent Portal” are as follow: 1. If you have ​never​ accessed this system, please contact our front office, 846­3636, ext 200 for additional information needed to successfully access this system. 2. Connect to​ ​http://www.gusd.org 3. Click on the “Parent Portal” icon found on the lower left hand side of the home page. Fall conferences are recommended for parents needing more information about their student’s classes or for parents of students who are at risk. You may also schedule a parent­teacher conference at any time by request. Please contact the school office. HONOR ROLL Sixth, seventh, and eighth grade honor roll at Sycamore Middle School is based on a grade point average of 3.0 or better for all subjects in regular or special education classes. Grade point averages are computed on a quarter basis. Criteria for computing grade point average is A=4 points, B=3 points, C=2 points, D=1 point, F=0 points CALIFORNIA JUNIOR SCHOLARSHIP FEDERATION (CJSF) Students are eligible to apply for membership in the California Junior Scholarship Federation (CJSF). CJSF is a statewide service organization that encourages excellence in academics and citizenship. Application for membership must be made each semester. Grades used to determine eligibility will come from grade level math, language arts, reading, science and social science. Successful applicants will have earned at least 10 points in the five subjects with A=3 points, B=1 point, and C=0 points. Any D or F grade in any subject will automatically disqualify a student for CJSF. CJSF members are expected to maintain scholarly behaviors during their membership. Any student who maintains CJSF membership at least one semester of the seventh grade and at least two semesters of the eighth grade may qualify as a CJSF honor student at graduation. EIGHTH GRADE PROMOTION th​
All 8​ graders will be expected to participate in the promotion ceremony. However, the ceremony is a privilege, not a right. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR EIGHTH GRADE PROMOTION/PARTICIPATION IN THE PROMOTION CEREMONY, SPECIAL EIGHTH GRADE ACTIVITIES The following are the minimum requirements for eighth grade promotion, participation in the promotion ceremonies, and special eighth grade activities: Updated 08/11/2016
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The promoting student must have achieved a minimum grade point average of 1.0 (“D”) in all classes during the 8​th​ grade school year. The promoting student may have no more than four “F’s” for the entire year and during the fourth quarter may receive no more than one “F” in all classes. A student may have no more than two “F’s” in a single subject throughout the year. Students who do not meet these requirements will not be allowed to participate in the promotion exercises and the related activities, and will not receive a diploma. Satisfactory citizenship and conduct must be maintained by the promoting student prior to promotion. (Students who meet academic requirements for promotion, but who do not maintain satisfactory citizenship, may not, at the discretion of the principal, be allowed to participate in the 8​th​ grade trip.) Nothing in this policy is to be interpreted as eliminating the right of the school, upon consultation with the parent, to retain a student in the 8​th​ grade for the best interest of the student. 4th Quarter Rules for 8th Grade​­​As at any other time of the school year, it is important for eighth grade students to maintain good grades and scholarly behavior. This becomes particularly important as our eighth graders enter the 4​th​ quarter of the year. The reasons for this are as follows: 1. Eligibility for high school sports and extracurricular activities​ ​as a freshman is based on 4th quarter grades from middle school. By board policy, you must have a 2.0 grade point average (GPA) in order to compete. 2. The promotion ceremony​ ​is a privilege and is based upon successfully completing the eighth grade year. Students who will be retained may attend the ceremony but will not be able to participate. PHYSICAL EDUCATION In order to promote optimum participation and positive personal hygiene, it is a requirement of all students to change into their own P.E. clothes with their name clearly visible to the teacher at the beginning of class. The use of sweatpants and sweatshirts during cooler weather are optional. At the end of the class period, students will change back into their regular school clothes. Students are not permitted to wear P.E. clothes on campus outside of P.E. class. The P.E. teachers will be distributing more specific guidelines and contracts to your student. Parents and students will be asked to sign and return the contract. LIBRARY If you use the library wisely, you will improve, enrich, and expand your knowledge about the world, people, and environment around you. A few simple rules will make the use of the library better for all students: 1. Take good care of the books you use and report any damaged books. 2. Never re­shelve books. 3. Only take books from the library after checking them out. 4. Renew books when they are due, you will only be able to check out new books when all other books are turned in. 5. Use computers in accordance to Sycamore computer use agreement 6. Food and drinks are not allowed in the library TEXTBOOKS Each student is responsible for the books checked out to him/her throughout the school year. Any lost or damaged books are to be paid for by the student. It is the responsibility of the student to cover his/her textbooks. If books are not paid for, report cards/diplomas will be held up at the end of each quarter. Updated 08/11/2016
12 AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM The after school program is coordinated by the Butte County Office of Education and enables students to complete homework and participate in a variety of enrichment activities. Application forms are available at the Sycamore Middle School Office. The afterschool program is held each school day from the time of release from regularly scheduled classes until 6:00 p.m., including minimum school days. FOOD SERVICES Every school day, breakfast and lunch are available for all Gridley Unified School District students. These meals meet or exceed the new United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) standards for Child Nutrition Programs that include the School Breakfast Program and National School Lunch program. We look forward to offering your student meals that emphasize fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Free and Reduced price meals are available to children who are eligible for benefits by submitting an application. It is necessary to complete only one application for an entire household and that application is valid for the entire school year. If the household income decreases or family size increases applications may be submitted any time during the school year. Households that are categorically eligible based on participation in other assistance programs are notified by mail before that start of the school year and do not need to complete an application. ​ ​The full meal price is $2.75 for lunch and $1.60 for breakfast, reduced price lunch is $.40 and breakfast is $.30 with payments accepted in the dining room or via the internets website ​www.paypams.com​. In accordance with Federal law and Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20250­9410 or call 202 720­5964.Individuals who are hearing impaired or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at 800 877­8339. Breakfasts are served every morning from 7:45 a.m. until 8:09 a.m. ​To assist us in serving your student please be sure to complete the application form in your enrollment packet and return it to the Sycamore Middle School Office or the Sycamore cafeteria. CAFETERIA RULES Students are expected to line up quietly and enter the cafeteria in single file; cutting in line is not permitted. All students should use good taste and manners in the cafeteria and are expected to be courteous to the cafeteria workers. Loud talking and yelling is disruptive and inappropriate; normal conversation is permissible but should be limited to your immediate area. All food shall be eaten in the designated cafeteria areas. Food should never be thrown at school.​ ​Students are expected to throw away their trash and clean­up their area before exiting the cafeteria. If you fail to follow these guidelines, you may be asked to pick up trash and/or wash tables. PARTIES, SNACKS, AND OTHER FOOD­RELATED ITEMS The staff members at Sycamore Middle School believe the foods and beverages available to students should promote optimal health. To this end, all foods and beverages sold at all Sycamore events and venues meet and exceed state and federal nutrition guidelines, and staff will be encouraged to avoid the use of non­nutritious foods as a reward for academic performance, accomplishments, or classroom behavior. To further support our Updated 08/11/2016
13 students, all celebrations and/or restricted use of non­nutritional items shall, when possible, be after lunch. Students will also not engage in any school fundraiser that promotes non­nutritious foods. To help in this, parents are asked to consider the nutritional quality of snacks, which they may donate, limiting the number and amount of snacks brought to Sycamore Middle School. STUDENT SERVICES TELEPHONE Students will be allowed to use an office telephone for emergencies and extreme situations only​.​ Students needing a phone should report to the office. If your student has a medical or other emergency, they can make contact with parents through the front office so school personnel are informed of the situation and can help manage keeping your student safe. VISITORS Sycamore Middle School does not allow visitors or student guests on campus during regular school hours. The only exception to this is if the visitor/student guest is involved in a school­related activity, classroom curriculum project or presentation approved in advance by the Administrator. In addition, anyone on campus for any reason during school hours must check in at the office and sign in and out. Parents are welcome at all times, but must follow the same procedures if they wish to visit a classroom or school activity. Each visitor will be given a Visitor Badge. (Education Code: PC 627.2, PC 627.4, PC 626.8). ACCIDENTS Every accident in the school building, on the grounds, at a practice session, or at any athletic event sponsored by the school must be reported immediately to the person in charge and to the office. The school does not carry accident insurance for any student,​ ​but it does make available a voluntary insurance plan. Students who take part in interscholastic athletics must be covered by this policy or provide evidence of accident insurance covering them during this type of activity. Each team coach will obtain a signed form letter from each student verifying this information. The letters will be kept on file in the Administrator’s office. MEDICATIONS Medications, even aspirin and cough drops, are not given to students. No treatment can be given for injuries, infections, or illnesses. Students taking any medication including non­prescription medications during school hours must have a note from the doctor and their parents or guardians​. ALL MEDICATIONS INCLUDING NON­PRESCRIPTION, OVER THE COUNTER, AND INHALERS ARE TO BE KEPT IN THE SCHOOL OFFICE. DISCIPLINE As a rule, discipline is the final resort in dealing with student misbehavior. The staff of Sycamore Middle School will make every effort to ensure each student hears and understands the site and district’s expectations and the legal requirements placed upon them by the state of California. It is also important to remember; in some circumstances the site administration must use professional discretion in assigning discipline, rather than rigid matrices or guidelines. Updated 08/11/2016
14 CAMPUS EXPECTATIONS • All students will play in designated area. • Running is permissible in the blacktop/field area only. • No playing or loitering in the bathroom. • All students will use equipment safely and appropriately. • All students will observe a hands­off policy and will not wrestle, kick, tackle, play fight or hit. • Keep personal athletic equipment at home. CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS The expectations below are the minimum expectations for all students at Sycamore Middle School. Teachers will provide more detailed and specific expectations to students during the first few days of school. 1. Students are not to interfere with the rights of other students to learn; they will be positive and treat all class members, adults, and property with respect and courtesy. 2. Students will have their own pencil, books, homework, or other necessary materials for each class period. 3. Students will not be allowed in any classroom without adult supervision. 4. Students should be in their assigned seats prepared to work when the bell rings, otherwise the student will be considered tardy to class. 5. Students who come to the office during class time must have a pass from their teacher. SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS Substitute teachers are guests on our campus. You are expected to follow the directions of substitute teachers and demonstrate scholarly behavior. DRESS CODE Sycamore Middle School recognizes the type and style of clothing and one’s hair are an individual and personal choice, nevertheless, we always expect our students to display scholarly behavior. Our expectations for what is acceptable and unacceptable are influenced by the district’s educational philosophy, including promoting a safe and healthy environment. It stresses a student's preparation for future positions in a society where academic and business excellence will be required and holds that school is a place of great importance and value, and should be reflected in the way students dress and act. To this end, students will not come to school dressed in a manner that is distracting to others by wearing revealing, torn, and soiled clothing or clothing and other items that are unsafe or which may represent gang association (California Education Code, 1994, Section 35294.1). The dress code is subject to modification to ensure the learning and safety of our students. 1) ​General Provisions • All clothing shall be neat, clean, and acceptable in appearance and shall be worn within the bounds of decency and good taste and appropriately conceal​ ​undergarments at all times. • Any articles of clothing, including belts and jewelry, which display, advocate, denote, or advertise profanity, violence, graffiti, unlawful activity, tobacco, weapons, alcohol, drugs, lewd and sexually Updated 08/11/2016
15 degrading images, or racially or ethnically offensive slogans that interfere with school work; create disorder or disrupt the educational process are not allowed. 2) ​Dangerous Apparel and Accessories • Footwear must be worn at all times. • Steel toe shoes. Cleats or spikes are not permitted unless used, with the permission from the coach or athletic director, for an athletic event. • Attire which may be used as a weapon is not allowed. This includes but is not limited to chains, wallet chains, and items with spikes or studs. 3) ​Clothing ● For safety reasons and to avoid a disruption in the educational process, students must wear shirts which rest securely on the shoulder. Tops must cover the stomach area at all times. Spaghetti straps, tube tops, halter tops, racer back, see through or off the shoulder blouses are unacceptable. ● Tank tops/sleeveless top straps must be a minimum of 2 inches wide and cover all undergarments. Students are not allowed to wear shirts, which bare midriffs, show cleavage, or hang loosely under the arm. Mesh jerseys, lace tops, and open­sided shirts are also inappropriate unless worn over an appropriate shirt. •
Students may not wear pajamas to school. •
Skirts and shorts must be mid­thigh in length 5) ​Headwear • For safety reasons, including avoiding ultraviolet damage, heat related illness, etc., students are allowed to wear hats with a 3” brim all the way around to school. • Hats must be removed once inside school buildings. • No add on writing, accessories, etc. will be allowed on hats. • Hairnets are not permitted. • Students are allowed to wear hooded sweatshirts and beanies (beanies cannot have any emblems, logos, etc.) to school. This apparel will be allowed during the cold winter months. Students will be required to have hoods down, hats/beanies off inside school buildings during warm weather. 6) ​Other dress limitations • Gang related insignias, colors, indicators, etc., such as Roman numeral XIV, XIII, X14, X13, the words Sureños, Norteños, Norte, Sur, the colors red, blue, etc. are not permitted to be drawn, worn, or displayed at school. • Hair that is painted, colored or styled in a manner that distracts classroom learning is not permitted. 7) ​Dress code violations • Students who violate the school dress code may face disciplinary consequences. • Clothing items or accessories that are dangerous or inappropriate for school will be confiscated by school personnel. • Students who are violating the dress code will not be permitted into class. Students must fix their clothing to be in compliance with the dress standards. DETENTION POLICY Updated 08/11/2016
16 Students may be assigned a detention from the administrators or classroom teacher. Detention may be assigned before school, after school, or at lunch. Staff must give parental notice 24 hours in advance before students may serve the before/after school detention. LITTERING All students are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of all areas on the campus by appropriately disposing of their own garbage. For safety reasons, glass containers and spitting are not permitted on campus. Sunflower seeds are health concerns and may damage school property. As a result, they are not to be brought on campus at any time. Violators of this rule may be assigned detention or face other disciplinary consequences. BICYCLES/SKATEBOARDS/SCOOTERS/ROLLERBLADES • Bicycles, skateboards and scooters are to be placed in the racks; students are only allowed in the bicycle area before and after school. • Lock your bicycle/skateboard/scooter for your own protection. The school is not responsible for your item. • Regular traffic laws are to be observed. • Courtesy to pedestrians is expected from all students. • Based upon the District’s liability insurance requirements, and for personal safety reasons, skateboarding scooters or rollerblading activities are not permitted on school grounds. PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION There will be no​ ​public displays of affection at school. This pertains to all school activities and events. PERSONAL ITEMS BELONGING TO STUDENTS Students should refrain from bringing personal items high in value to school. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Students should keep their backpacks and other belongings in their possession at all times to ensure they do not get lost or stolen. Backpacks and personal items are not to be left outside of classrooms. The school will not investigate situations where student items are missing. CELL PHONES & MUSICAL/ELECTRONIC DEVICES Cell phones are allowed at Sycamore Middle School as long as they are not causing a disruption. It is expected that students use phones appropriately and safely. Phones must remain on silent and not cause a disruption during instructional time. Videoing students is not allowed unless it is directed by a teacher for classroom purposes. The use of cell phones or any device capable of capturing images is strictly prohibited in locker rooms or restroom areas. Students may not use headphones/ear buds unless approved by a staff member. If a phone becomes a distraction or used inappropriately, the phone will be confiscated for the parent to pick up. CONFISCATION OF ITEMS Updated 08/11/2016
17 Sycamore Middle School staff members may confiscate items which are dangerous and/or a distraction during class or school activities. These include, but are not limited to: weapons, aerosol sprays, cell phones, musical devices, lasers, and gag items. ​Parents will be required to pick up all items, which have been confiscated. TOBACCO FREE SCHOOL In compliance with California State Law, Sycamore Middle School is a tobacco­free school. SCHOOL/PERSONAL PROPERTY For willful destruction of school or personal property by a student, the parents or guardians will be financially responsible up to the limit stated in the California Education Code. SEXUAL HARASSMENT GUIDELINES Any student who engages in the sexual harassment of anyone within the school community may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Any employee who permits or engages in sexual harassment of a student may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. Prohibited sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to: “unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, visual or physical conduct of a sexual nature” (Education Code 212.5, 48900.2). Other types of conduct which are prohibited in the district and which may constitute sexual harassment include: • Unwelcome leering, sexual flirtation or propositions • Unwelcome sexual slurs, epithets, threats, verbal abuse, derogatory comments, or sexually degrading descriptions • Graphic verbal comments about an individual's body or overly personal conversation • Sexual jokes, stories, drawings, pictures, or gestures • Spreading sexual rumors including rumors spread via technology devices • Touching an individual's body or clothes in a sexual way • Cornering or blocking of normal movements • Any act of retaliation against an individual who reports a violation of the district's sexual harassment policy or who participates in the investigation of a sexual harassment complaint. DISCIPLINE STANDARDS T he following list identifies the sections of the California Education Code that governs student conduct and the consequences in the Conduct Code that may be applied. Most violations allow for a range of disciplinary response. Some consequences may occur simultaneously. ​The administration has the discretion to accelerate consequences if necessary. Updated 08/11/2016
18 Violation Category Level 1 ●
Defiance, disobedience, dress code other disrespect*. Including but not limited to: o
Inappropriate displays of affection o
Profanity, or obscene act o
Defacing school property (washable or erasable) ●
Failure to return a signed referral ** ●
Unauthorized use of electronic devices* (cd players/ipods/cell phones/laser pointers/cameras etc.) ●
In unauthorized area (or cutting class) ●
Disruption of a school Activity ●
Cheating, Plagiarism Occurrence 1​st ​–​ ​2​nd 2​nd​ – 3​rd Level 2 1​st ●
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Defacing property (cannot be washed or erased) Off Campus without Parent permission (skipping school) 3​rd​ – 4​th 4​th​ – 5​th Additional infractions 1 day suspension/alternative consequences (Parent notification) 2 –3 day suspension (Parent notification) 3­ 5 day suspension (Parent notification) Behavior contract Recommendation for expulsion/alternative placement 3­5 day suspension/alternative consequences *** (parent notification) 3­5 day suspension *** (parent notification) Recommendation for expulsion/alternative placement *** 2​nd 3​rd 4​th Level 3 ●
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Fighting Forging or falsifying documents Possession or use of tobacco Fire setting or false alarm Threats, hazing, intimidation, bullying (including bullying by electronic act) harassment (including sexual or hate harassment) Possession of dangerous objects Possession of drugs or alcohol Committed robbery/extortion Committed theft Possession or selling of drug paraphernalia Received stolen property Possession of an imitation firearm Harassed, threatened or intimidated a student witness Sold prescription drug Soma Sold look alike substance representing drugs or alcohol Level 4 ●
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Causing serious physical injury to another person Possession of any knife, explosive or other dangerous objects Assault or battery, (or threat of) on a school employee Updated 08/11/2016
19 Consequence Teacher/Student conference Teacher/Student/Parent Conference Teacher assigned detention Saturday School (4 hours) and parent notification by office Behavior Contract (staff/student/parent meeting) 5​th 1​st 2​nd 3​rd Any Suspension or recommendation for expulsion/alternative placement*** Level 5 Any Mandatory recommendation for expulsion (Education code 48915 Possessing, selling or otherwise c)*** furnishing a firearm ●
Brandishing a knife at another person ●
Selling of a controlled substance ●
Committing or attempting to commit sexual assault or battery ●
Possession of an explosive *see specific policy in student/parent handbook **referrals will be sent home for parent signature and returned the next school day; failure to do so is a level 2 offense ***may include law enforcement notification ●
Updated 08/11/2016
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