2014/2015 Middletown High School

Middletown High School Middie Blue Pages

MHS Parent and Student Handbook

2014/2015 Ann Hall Director or Guidance

Dear Students,

Welcome to our fifth edition of the Middletown High School Parent/Student Handbook—a simple and quick reference guide for high school students and their parents. The high school guidance team is always on hand to assist parents and students with specialized counseling services and academic interventions. Contact us at (845) 326-1632.

Sincerely,

Ann Hall Director of Guidance

TABLE OF CONTENTS CAFETERIA & LOCKERS - 13

CALENDAR - 4 ACADEMICS - 13 College & Career Center - 13 STUDENTS RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES -5 Honors Guidelines - 14 Before and After School -5 Grading System - 14, 15 Computer Usage Policy - 5 Progress Reports - 15 Denial of Credit - 6 Summer School - 15 Dress Code - 6 Homework - 15 Early Work Release - 6 Textbook Use - 15 Electronic Communication Devices & MP3’s - 7 Exams - 15 FAQ’s - Frequently Asked Questions - 7 Honor Roll - 15 Food Services - 7 Extra-Curricular Clubs/Activities - 15 Library Media Center - 8 Assemblies/Field Trips - 16 National Honor Society - 8 School Dances - 16 Parking Procedures - 8, 9 Parent Drop-off - 9 SPORTS - 16 Student Council - 9 Academic Eligibility Guidelines - 16, 17 Student Release Information - 9 Rules/Regulations for Athletes - 17 Transition Tips - 9, 10 STUDENT DISCIPLINE - 18 Suspension - 18, 19 BUILDING SAFETY & SECURITY - 10 Student Searches - 19 Entrance to Building - 10 Delayed Openings/School Closings - 10 School Messenger - 10 BELL SCHEDULE Building Safety - 10 Period 1: 7:35 - 8:18 a.m. Emergency Response - 10 Period 2: 8:22 - 9:03 a.m. School Telephones - 11 Period 3: 9:07 - 9:48 a.m. Bus Conduct - 11 Period 4: 9:52 - 10:33 a.m. Attendance Policy - 11, 12 Period 5: 10:37 - 11:18 a.m. Late to School Policy - 12 Period 6: 11:22 - 12:03 p.m. Late to Class Policy - 12 Period 7: 12:07 - 12:48 p.m. Class Cutting - 12 Period 8: 12:52 - 1:33 p.m. Early Student Release - 12 Period 9: 1:37 - 2:20 p.m.

2 Mission Statement: The mission of Middletown High School is to provide an environment in which each student, through education, may attain his/her full human potential. We exist so that young adults may be given the opportunity to develop cognitive, emotional, and ethical maturity. We will do this by helping our young people to develop skills, attitudes, and understanding that will enable them to lead intelligent, creative, healthy and productive lives. In addition, we share responsibility with society to ensure that our students emerge from this school equipped to serve as productive members of the community.

Enlarged City School MHS Houses District of Middletown All students are assigned alphabetically to one of four Houses. Each House consists of Board of Education two counselors, a House Dean, and two clerical personnel. Students are assigned to, Andrew Warren, President and remain with, one counselor from ninth to twelfth grade, providing a professional John Perrino, Vice President and personal touch to students and parents. Paula Blumenau Edwin Estrada Middletown High School Counselor Assignments 2014/2015 Linda Knapp House I (A-Ek) House III (Loo-Rit) Darrell McElroy Dean: Dr. Hans Sebald 326-1540 Dean: Dwayne Whitaker 326-1550 Heurtelou Pierre Maria Ferrer (A-B) 326-1539 Linda Ferguson (Loo-M) 326-1549 Rose Tobiassen Courtney Guasp (C-Ek) 326-1538 Kim Gurda (N-Rit) 326-1548 John Williams ______Central & MHS Administration House II (El-Lon) House IV (Riv-Z) Dr. Kenneth Eastwood Dean: Adam Chagares 326-1545 Dean: Mrs. Lauren Durr 326-1555 Superintendent of Schools Ruth Campbell (El-Gr) 326-1544 Patrick Woods (Riv-Sm) 326-1553 (845) 326-1158 Eric Hipsman (Gu-Lon) 326-1543 Latricia Mills (So-Z) 326-1554 Richard Del Moro REGENTS DIPLOMA REGENTS DIPLOMA WITH ADVANCED Assistant Superintendent for Instruction (845) 326-1154 COURSE REQUIREMENTS DESIGNATION COURSE REQUIREMENTS English 4 credits English 4 credits Elizabeth McKean Social Studies 4 “ Social Studies 4 “ Assist. Superintendent Administration Math 3 “ Math 3 “ (845) 326-1144 Science 3 “ Science 3 “ Ann Hall Art/Music 1 “ Art/Music 1 “ Health 0.5 “ Health 0.5 “ Director of Guidance Physical Ed. 2 “ Physical Ed. 2 “ Jessica Turner Foreign Lang 1 “ Foreign Lang 3 “ Instructional Leader SLO & Coordinator Electives 3.5 “ Electives 1.5 “ of Deans Minimum 22 Credits Minimum 22 Credits (845) 326-1629 Magdalen Radovich-IL Humanities REGENTS EXAM REQUIREMENTS* REGENTS EXAM REQUIREMENTS* 65 or above on all Regents exams; (845) 326-1534 65 or above on all Regents exams; • ELA (English Language Arts) • ELA Alfred Romano-IL STEM • Any one (1) Math • Integrated Algebra, Geometry and Algebra/ (845) 326-1589 • Global History Trigonometry David Coates • US History • Global History Athletic Director • 1 Regents Level Science • US History (845) 326-1532 • Living Environment & 1 additional Science *Regents Diploma with Honors is awarded Regents exam Kristin Kerr to students who achieve a 90% or better *Advanced Designation with Honors is awarded to Director for ESL/Bi-Lingual on all of the required Regents exams. students who achieve a 90% or better on all of the (845) 326-1307 required Regents exams. Note: A one-credit course equals one year (2 full semesters) of study. Half-credit courses equal one semester of study.

3 MIDDLETOWN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT CALENDAR “2014/2015”

September, 2014 March, 2015 1 No School - Labor Day 6 Marking Period 3 Interim Reports 2-3 Superintendent Conference Day (no students) 13-14 MHS Spring Musical 4 First Day of School for Students 14 SAT Examination(8:00 am) 12 Bell Game at Middletown (7:00 pm) 18 MHS Parent Teacher Conferences (1-2:40 & 6-8:30) 16 MHS Parents Club Meeting - (7:00 pm Library) 20 MHS Instrumental Concert (7:00 pm) 24 Early Dismissal (District-wide - 1:15 pm) 26 Career Day (10 am-1 pm) 25-26 Rosh Hashanah (no school) 30-31 Spring Recess 29-30 Picture Days for Grades 9-11 April, 2015 30 MHS Open House (6-8:30 pm) 1-6 Spring Recess October, 2014 15 College & Career Center Open House (5:30 pm) 2 Homecoming Football Game (Kingston) 17 Third Marking Period Ends 3 Marking Period 1 Interim Report 22 Jump Start College! (6:00 pm at MHS) 6-7 Senior Portraits Taken 29 College Fair (9 am - 1 pm) 7 MHS Parents Club Meeting (7:00 pm @ MHS) May, 2015 9 National Hispanic College Fair (7am-12pm) 2 SAT Examination(8:00 am) 11 SAT Exam (8:00 am) 13 Academic Achievement Awards Dinner (6:00 pm) 13 Columbus Day (no school) 8 “We are Middletown-A Celebration of Our Programs” 21 NAF Internship Provider’s Reception(6:00 pm) 15 Middletown Arts Celebration(5:00-7:00 pm) 27 College Panel and Financial Aid Night (6:00 pm) NAF Graduation (6:00 pm) 31 Superintendent’s Conference Day (no students) 21 Marking Period 4 - Interim Reports November, 2014 21 MHS Junior/Senior Prom (7:00 pm) 7 First marking period ends 22-25 Memorial Day Weekend (no school) 7 & 8 MHS Drama Presentation(7 pm) 27 MHS Instrumental Concert (7:00 pm) 8 SAT Exam (8 am) MHS National Honor Society Induction(7:00 pm 11 Veterans Day (no students) June, 2015 14, 15, 16 NYS Boys Soccer Championships 2 NYS Regents Examinations(ELA & Algebra) 18 MHS Parent Teacher Conferences (1-2:40 & 6-8:30) 5 MHS Spring Choral Concert (7:00 pm) 26 Alumni College Fair (10 am to 1 pm) 6 SAT Examination 26 Students/Teachers 1/2 day Dismissal (11:00 am) 15 Senior Celebration 27, 28 Thanksgiving Recess (school closed) 16-24 NYS Regents Examinations December, 2014 25 Final Marking Period Ends 15 MHS Instrumental Concert (Theater, 7pm) 25 MHS Senior Awards Dinner (5:45 pm) 6 SAT Examination(8:00 am) 26 Rating Day(no students) 12 Marking Period 2 Interim Reports 26 MHS Senior Breakfast & Grad Rehearsal (7:15-11:00) 12 MHS Winter Choral Concert (Theater, 7pm) 26 Class of 1965 Golden Grad Tour & Reception (3:30-5:15) 22-31 Winter Recess (school closed) 26 MHS Class of 2015 Commencement Exercises (6pm) January, 2015 1 New Year’s Day 1-2 Winter Recess (school closed) 19 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day(school closed) 21 HESC Financial Aid Night (Theater, 6 pm) 24 SAT Examination(8:00 am) 26-29 NYS Regents Examinations 30 Second Marking Period Ends February, 2015 2 Student scheduling begins TBA MHS January Graduation(6:00 - 7:30 pm) 13-16 Presidents weekend (no school)

4 STUDENT’S RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Conduct themselves as representatives of the Middletown Enlarged City School District of Middletown when participating in or attending school sponsored extracurricular events RIGHTS and to hold themselves to the highest standards of conduct, The Enlarged City School District of Middletown is committed demeanor and sportsmanship. to safeguarding the rights given to all students under state and federal law (section 100.2(I)(i)). In addition to promoting a BEFORE AND AFTER SCHOOL safe, healthy and civil school environment, all district students In the morning, students may enter through the cafeteria, but have the right to: when the school day begins, students may only enter through the main entrance for the rest of the school day. • A safe, healthy, orderly, respectful, and civil school environment. All students are required to leave the school building/campus at dismissal, unless they are engaged in an after-school activ- • Know of, and avail themselves to anger management and ity. Students engaged in after school activities will be given a mechanisms to control their anger, and to know of pass to wait for transportation in the lobby. Students who do programs that help with problems that may lead to not obtain a pass from their adult supervisor will be referred discipline problems. to administration. Additionally, students who leave campus at dismissal may not return in order to utilize the activity buses. • Take part in all district activities on an equal basis regard less of age, race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, or disability. COMPUTER USAGE POLICY* The Middletown Board of Education will provide access to vari- • Present their version of the relevant events to school ous computerized information resources through the district’s personnel authorized to impose a disciplinary penalty as computer system (DCS), consisting of software, hardware, com- in connection with the imposition of the penalty. In addi puter networks, and the “Internet”. This access may include tion, to all students have the right to access school rules the opportunity for some students to have independent access and, when necessary, receive an explanation of those rules to the DCS from their home or other remote locations. All from school personnel. use of the DCS including independent use off school premises, education and/or research should be consistent with the goals and purposes of the school district. RESPONSIBILITIES All district students have the responsibility to: In addition to the district’s general requirements governing student behavior, the following specific activities shall be pro- • Contribute to maintaining a safe and orderly environment hibited by student users of the DCS. that is conducive to learning and to show respect to all other persons and property. 1) Using the DCS to obtain, view, download, send, print, display or otherwise gain access to or to transmit materials that • Be familiar with and abide by all district policies, rules and are unlawful, obscene, pornographic or abusive. regulations relating to student code of conduct. 2) Use of obscene or vulgar language. 3) Harassing, insulting or attacking others. • Attend school every day unless the student is legally 4) Damaging, disabling or otherwise interfering with the excused. operation of computers, computer systems, software of related equipment through physical action or by electronic means. • Be in class on time and prepared to learn. 5) Using unauthorized software on the DCS. 6) Changing, copying, renaming, deleting, reading or oth- • Work to the best of the student’s ability in all academic, erwise accessing files or software not created by the student extracurricular pursuits and strive toward the highest level of without express permission from the computer coordinator. achievement possible. 7) Violating copyright law. 8) Employing the DCS for commercial purposes, product • React to direction given by teachers, administrators, and advertisement or political lobbying. other school personnel in a respectful and positive manner. 9) Disclosing an individual password to others or using someone else’s password. • Work to develop mechanisms to control anger. 10) Transmitting material, information or software in violation of any district policy or regulation, the school behavior code, • Seek help in solving problems that might lead to discipline. and/or federal, state, and local law or regulation. 11) Revealing personal information about oneself or of other • Dress appropriately for school and school functions. students including, but not limited to disclosure of home address and/or telephone number. • Accept responsibility for student’s actions. *For the complete district policy, please visit the district’s website: www.middletowncityschools.org

5 DENIAL OF CREDIT DRESS CODE At the secondary level, any student who exceeds the maximum A student’s dress, grooming and appearance, including hair number of excused or unexcused absences (20 days for a full- style/color, jewelry, make-up and nails, shall abide by the fol- year course, and 10 days for a one-semester course) AND does lowing guidelines (and are not necessarily limited to): not make up assigned class work (see make up policy) may not be eligible to receive credit for that course. Parents of students • Be safe, appropriate and not disrupt or interfere with the who are denied credit for these reasons will be notified in writ- educational process. ing and by telephone. High School students who are denied • Recognize that extremely brief garments such as tube tops, credit due to poor attendance may go to summer school only net tops, halter tops, spaghetti straps, plunging necklines if they get a 50 on the regular course final, as this is considered (front and/or back), bare midriff, other extremely brief gar- the entrance exam for summer school for those who are other- ments (including shorts, pants, and skirts) and see-through wise denied credit. garments are not appropriate. • Skirts and shorts must be of reasonable length appropriate At the secondary level, lateness or early departure in excess of for school. This means skirts and shorts may not be shorter fifteen minutes to any class will be deemed an absence and will than 3” (inches) above the knee. count toward the 20 or 10 day absence limits. • Ensure that undergarments are completely covered by outer clothing. Students who have been absent from either a class or from • Footwear will be worn at all times. Footwear that is a school must present written documentation from either the safety hazard will not be allowed. parent or a school official that provide a reason for the -ab • Not include the wearing of hats or any head gear or sence. Upon return from an absence, students need to pres- headwear in the school except for a medical or religious ent their absence letter/documentation to their Home School purpose. Liaison. Students who are attending school-sponsored field • Items that are vulgar, obscene, sexual, libelous, or deni- trips, assemblies, rotating music lessons, or who are involved in grate others based on race, color, religion, ancestry, na- mandatory testing or counseling, will not be considered absent tional origin, sex, sexual orientation, or disability may not as part of this attendance policy since they are participating in be worn. activities that are an extension of the district’s academic pro- • Not promote and/or endorse the use of alcohol, tobacco, gram. This paragraph is not intended to preclude the need for or illegal drugs and/or encourage other illegal or violent timely communication between and among the student and the activities. staff members consistent with the parameters of the previous • Not include dangerous jewelry with pointed studs or long paragraph of this policy. pocket chains. • Not include wearing of bandanas, sashes, pocket hang- Eligible students whose absences are due to illness or accident ing cloths, beads, and/or any other accessory deemed by may be placed on home tutoring. Students who are on home administration or known to be gang/group related. tutoring are credited with attendance for their participation. • No blue-tooth, ear plugs, I-Pods, I-Phones, cell phones are Normally, eligibility is established in writing by a physician for to be used/seen during school hours. students who must be absent twenty or more consecutive days from school. Cases involving unusual or extraordinary circum- Students who violate the Dress Code will be required to modify stances may be referred to the building principal or director of their appearance by covering or removing the offending item, pupil personnel services for consideration. and if necessary or practical, replace it with an acceptable item. Any student who refuses to do so shall be issued a one-day Students who are classified as disabled by the District’s CSE, or suspension. If a parent is not available to pick up the student, under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and who they will be sent home on a 10 am bus. are in jeopardy of being denied academic credit based on this attendance policy, will have the Director of High School Opera- tions or designee determine if the disability precludes compli- EARLY WORK RELEASE FOR SENIORS ance with this attendance policy. If such is the case, the child As per Middletown Board of Education policy, seniors currently will be referred back to the CSE or 504 Committee to determine enrolled in sufficient courses to ensure graduation in January appropriate attendance procedures. If the determination is or June of the current school year may be granted early work such that the disability does not preclude compliance with this release privileges. Forms are available in the House Offices. attendance policy, the student will be held accountable to this policy as written. The early work release privilege will only be granted for the following reasons: • The student has secured regular employment which can be verified • The student is enrolled in post-high school studies during regular school hours. • The student is participating in activities approved by the administration. 6 Seniors must maintain satisfactory academic standing in order secretary. She will assist you with making an appointment to to retain this privilege. Students who abuse this privilege will speak to your counselor. have it revoked. Seniors must carry their early release pass at all times. What should I do if my guidance counselor is busy and some- Seniors with early release may leave the high school campus by thing urgent comes up that I need to discuss? the following methods: Speak to the guidance secretary from your House. She will con- • Driving, provided they have a MHS parking permit tact a counselor to speak to you. • Parental pick up Are schedule changes permitted? • Walking, provided a note is on file from parent/guardian Depending on the circumstances surrounding the change, your guidance counselor will determine if it can be made. ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES AND MP3

PLAYERS If I need extra help with a class, how can I arrange that? Speak to your teacher and they will help you arrange extra help. Students may not use or wear any electronic communication You should also speak to your guidance counselor if you are device or MP3 player during the school day. All electronic having trouble with a class and they can make suggestions for devices must be turned off and out of sight while inside the you on where to get the help you need. Middletown High School. Electronic devices may include, but are not limited to: When do students meet in homeroom and for what purpose? - Cellular Telephones - DVD Players/Blue Ray players Students meet in their homerooms on the first day of school. - Headsets/Earplugs - Gaming Systems If it is required for students to meet in their homerooms again -Video recording devices - Microphones during the school year, it will be announced. - MP3 Players - Cameras -Radios If I am ill and need to see the nurse, how do I go about it? Any student who violates this policy will have their devices If you are feeling ill during the school day, you should speak to confiscated and locked in the student’s designated House. your teacher and he/she will give you a pass to go to the nurse’s 1st Offense - Students may receive their confiscated item at the office. end of the day. 2nd Offense - A parent or guardian must pick up the item If I am absent, how do I notify the school? during the hours of 7:30 am and 4:00 pm. If you will be absent from school, please call the attendance of- *Refusal to cooperate with administration can result in further fice at (845) 326-1567 or (845) 326-1568. disciplinary action.

Students are not permited to use any electronic device during How do I arrange for working papers? any exams, including all classroom and State exams. Students Go to the main office at MHS and ask for the paperwork needed who use electronic devices during local assessments will have to get working papers. When you return the completed paper- their exam invalidated and will receive a zero grade on the work, your working papers will be issued. exam. *For the complete district policy, please visit the district’s website: www.middletowncityschools.org Students found in possession of an electronic device during a State Exam will have their exam invalidated and the exam will FOOD/BEVERAGE DELIVERY DURING SCHOOL HOURS not be scored. The student will need to retake the exam during the next State scheduled exam period. In order to promote a clean and safe environment, no outside food/beverages may be delivered during the school day (6:00 FAQ’s (Frequently asked questions) AM – 10:00 PM). All student food deliveries will be turned away at the front door. The only exception is if food/beverages What role do guidance counselors play? are related to the academic class, which must have the permis- Guidance counselors help students with: sion of the Director of High School Operations prior to the event • Academic Advising (48 hrs.). • Vocational College Planning • Career Planning • Military Service Options • Personal Problems • Scheduling

How do I make an appointment to see my counselor? Go to your House in the high school and speak to the guidance

7 FOOD SERVICE • No more than three (3) suspensions (ISS or OSS) from the prior school year To set up a Money Meal account online, visit www.mylunch- • No more than nine (7) legal absences and eleven (5) unex- money.com/inex.aspx. To view menus, log on to cused latenesses the previous year. www.middletowncityschools.org. Applications must be completed and returned, by the due date, to the administrator in charge of student parking. Students Meal Prices: should display the assigned I.D. tag at all times. Students must Breakfast: $ 1.25 park in the upper parking lot in the designated student spots. Meal Deal: 22 breakfasts for $25.00 Any change in vehicle information, temporary or otherwise, Lunch: $ 2.10 must be reported to the administrator in charge of student Meal Deal: 22 lunches for $42.00 parking. Students are responsible for marking sure their ve- LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER hicle is locked, and that they have secured all contents. MHS will not be held responsible for any vehicle or its contents. Cars The Library/Media Center at Middletown High School is open parked on school property are an extension of the school and Monday through Friday from 7:25 a.m. to 3 p.m. To contact the are subject to searches. Library/Media Center call (845) 326-1561 or visit Any student who does not receive a parking space will be www.middletowncityschools.org/mhs/Library/library.htm. placed on a waiting list. Those on the waiting list will be -of fered temporary or permanent parking permits as they become The library houses a collection of more than 15,000 books, available. videos, and DVDs, along with magazines and newspapers. You can access information from a computer in the library, or from PARKING PROCEDURES your computer at home, on the following:

• Students who are tardy to school two or more times in the • Library Catalogs same marking period will lose their parking privileges. • Database Links • Students who receive disciplinary actions are subject to • Testing Links have their parking privileges revoked at the discretion of • Research Paper Help their House Dean. • You can also click on a slide show of new books that are • Students who are granted permission to drive to and from available at the library BOCES are not allowed to drive other students. NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY • Students must receive permission from the BOCES prin- The National Honor Society (NHS) is an exclusive organization cipal, and the Instructional Leader, SLO & Coordinator of that was established to recognize outstanding high school Deans or his/her designee. students. • Students may not go to their cars during the school day without specific permission from their House Dean. The As a local chapter of the National Honor Society, Middletown student will be escorted to his/her vehicle. students are eligible as incoming seniors if they have a GPA of • Leaving school without permission could result in immedi- at least 90 percent, have filled out a selection packet (including ate suspension from school and revocation of parking/driv- the essay and interview portion), and have demonstrated lead- ing privileges. ership, character, service, and academic excellence throughout • Any reckless driving, such as, but not limited to: speeding, their educational career. squealing of tires or any careless driving will result in im- mediate suspension of parking/driving privileges as well as other disciplinary measures. NHS members organize various school activities and fundrais- • Vandals will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law ers during the year and also participate in community service and severely disciplined by the school. projects with organizations such as the Ronald McDonald • The Middletown School District is not responsible for any House and the American Cancer Society. damage caused by vandalism in the student parking lot. PARKING – PRIVILEGE FOR ELIGIBLE SENIORS ONLY • Any kind of accident in the parking lot must be reported immediately to the school’s main office and school secu- Student parking will only be available to seniors on a first rity. (even a fender bender). come, first served basis. To apply for a parking permit you • If a parking permit is suspended or revoked and the car is must have the following: parked anywhere on campus, it will be subject to towing at the owner’s/driver’s expense. Additionally, further disci- • Must attend a safe driving program at MHS plinary action may ensue. • Valid driver’s license • Absolutely no loitering in the parking lot or in vehicles is • Valid vehicle registration allowed before and after school. Students must leave their • Valid vehicle insurance card vehicles and enter the school as soon as they arrive in the • Completed application parking lot. They must leave school grounds when school • Must be a senior upon submission of the application is dismissed. • Must be academically eligible (no more than one (1) fail- • Any vehicle parked on school property without administra- ure from the prior school year 8 tive authorization will be towed at the owner’s/driver’s Cabinet which includes a president, vice-president, secretary expense. Also, further disciplinary action may ensue. and treasurer. The General Assembly includes two representatives from each social studies class and meets once a month to APPLICABILITY discuss any concerns and/or upcoming events. These parking and traffic regulations apply to all members of Student Government accomplishes its goals in various ways: the high school community, including students, faculty, staff, administration and visitors. All New York State vehicle and • It identifies student concerns and needs. traffic laws (education Law Section 1670) will apply on campus in addition to rules and regulations as established by recog- • It communicates those needs and concerns to high school nized high school authorities. administration. SPEED LIMIT The campus speed limit is 5 MPH. Failure to abide by the • It contributes to building-wide and district-wide committees speed limit may result in a traffic citation and/or revocation of that work with administration, faculty and the community. parking permit or privilege. • It champions initiatives and activities that promote diversity VEHICLE REGISTRATION and foster a unified student body. STUDENT RELEASE INFORMATION • All motor vehicles parking on campus must be registered Throughout the school year students may need to be released with the administrator in charge of parking, who will issue from school early due to illness, family emergency, among an official high school parking decal. The parking decal other things. The school district has compiled some helpful must be prominently displayed in the left hand corner of reminders and guidelines for parents. the rear window. • Only bona fide seniors may apply for a parking permit. •Parents are urged to make appointments with physicians, Juniors may apply ONLY if there are excess parking spaces. dentists, special tutors, after school hours. If a release is neces- Parking spaces are designated on a first come, first served sary, parents should make note of the date, time, and reason basis. Vehicles without a valid parking permit are subject for the release. Students cannot be excused without advanced to disciplinary action, citation, fine and/or towing. written request by a parent or guardian and must be released • It is the responsibility of the owner or the driver of the ve- in care of parent or guardian, unless otherwise noted. hicle to ensure that the parking permit remains visible at all times. Any additional car used regularly or frequently •No student may be released from school to anyone other than must also be registered. When an unauthorized vehicle is the parent, guardian or child protective services personnel/ driven to campus for any reason, the driver must report to law enforcement officers pursuant to law, unless the indi- an administrator immediately to get approval. vidual’s name seeking release of the student appears on a list provided by the parent or guardian. PARENT DROP OFF/PICK UP Parents who drop off or pick up their children from MHS • A student may be released to either parent unless a custodial must follow the rules/signs for drop off posted in the parking parent supplies the Superintendent of Schools with a certified lot. Drop off and pick up of students must take place in the copy of a court order or divorce decree to the contrary. lower loop, Gardner Avenue Extension (by the athletic field) or the upper loop along the designated student drop off area, Carpenter Avenue. In order to ensure the safety of all stu- TRANSITION TIPS dents, parents should not disupt the flow of traffic and should only drop off students in the two designated areas described Your Academic Record: above. In order to graduate, you must fulfill our academic requirements. Your guidance counselor should be able to discuss this with you, as well as Grade Point Average (GPA), class rank, and STUDENT COUNCIL high school transcript. With freshman, EVERYTHING COUNTS! The Board of Education recognizes the rights of secondary- All of your freshman courses, grades, and credits will be on level students to be represented by a student government. your transcript. Your freshman grades will also be used to Students are encouraged to take an active role in the develop- determine your GPA. ment of procedures and regulations that affect them. Students are welcome to attend Board meetings and are granted privi- Grades: leges to express their own and their fellow student’s opinions. Here are some tips for getting good grades:

• Be organized • Manage your time well The Student Council represents student opinion, addresses • Take good notes • Review your work student and campus needs, and also promotes student inter- • Study for tests • Be in class everyday and do your ests through representation and advocacy. The Student Coun- cil also supports and sponsors a variety of student activities homework and programs. The council itself is made up of an Executive

9 Get to Know Your School: • One-hour delay: the bus arrives at your regular bus stop MHS has a student handbook which explains attendance, one hour later than normal pick-up time. tardy policies, rules, code of conduct, athletic eligibility re- • Two-hour delay: the bus is two hours later than your quirements, and dress code. normal pick-up time. In all cases, it is important that you continue to listen to your radio as long as possible before Get Involved at MHS: you depart for your bus stop, in case of a cancellation of The more you put into your time here at MHS, the more you school. In addition, the information is available on the will get out of it. Research shows that students involved in district website at: http://www.middletowncityschools.org. activities do better academically and enjoy high school more. Being involved helps you: SCHOOL MESSENGER • Spend more time with friends Keeping students, parents, and the community informed isn’t • Meet new people just important—it’s a priority in Middletown. As a result, the • Enjoy school more district has launched SchoolMessenger—a notification system • Become a leader that delivers voice, e-mail, and SMS messages to users on • Relieve stress matters such as attendance, events, and district emergencies. • Provide activities to put on applications Have questions? Contact the technology department at (845) • Develop a variety of skills and talents 326-1190. • Have fun BUILDING SAFETY AND SECURITY MHS has theater programs, athletic teams, leadership orga- The Enlarged City School District of Middletown is committed nizations, music programs, service organizations, and special to providing a safe and orderly environment for all students, interest clubs. There is an organization, club, team or activity faculty and staff. To that end, several safety measures are in for everyone so get involved and remember...Middie Pride! place:

- All high school administration, faculty, staff and students are responsible for contributing to a safe environment. If you are BUILDING SAFETY AND SECURITY aware of an unsafe or potentially disruptive or violent situation, please report the incident to administration immediately. ENTRANCE TO THE BUILDING All students and visitors must enter the building through the - School security aides are assigned to the high school main lobby doors. throughout the day. They are available to assist, de-escalate, or prevent accidents. DELAYED OPENINGS/SCHOOL CLOSINGS - Doors are monitored and locked throughout the school day. WALL 1340 AM WHUD 100.7 FM All students and visitors must enter the building through the WCZX/WZAD 97.7/97.3FM WRNN TV main lobby. Please direct anyone who attempts to enter the WRRV 96.9/92.7 FM WSPK 104.7 FM building to the main entrance. WDLC 1490 AM WTBQ 1110 Am WEOK 1390 AM WBNR - Closed circuit cameras are installed in the public areas and WTSX 96.7 FM WRWD around the outer perimeter of the building. The combination ESPN Radio WELV 1370 AM of these safety measures, as well as building-wide vigilance WGNY 1220 AM/103.1 WLNA 1420 will help ensure optimum safety. WPDH 101.5/106.1 FM WFPK/WPKF 99.3 FM WBWZ WSUL 98.3 FM EMERGENCY RESPONSES • Middletown High School “Information Line” (845) 326-1821. The District and each school building maintain school safety • Channel 20 (Time Warner Cable) plans, which detail response procedures for possible emergencies. The protocol for emergency response varies based In making the decision to close schools, the Superintendent on individual circumstances. When conditions warrant an may consider many factors, including the following, which emergency response, local law enforcement collaborates with relate to the safety and health of children: district and building administration to determine the most appropriate response, based on the knowledge at hand and 1. Weather conditions, both existing and predicted; under the circumstances. 2. Driving, traffic, and parking conditions affecting public and private transportation facilities; FIRE DRILLS/EMERGENCY EVACUATIONS 3. Actual occurrence or imminent possibility of any emergency Several fire drills and/or emergency evacuations are prac- condition that would make the operation of schools difficult ticed during the year. The loud clang of the alarm shall be the or dangerous; and signal to evacuate the building immediately. Students are to 4. Inability of teaching personnel to report for duty, which be quiet and orderly at all times. Pushing, running, horseplay might result in inadequate supervision of students. 10 and talking will not be tolerated. Violations of this policy will SCHOOL TELEPHONES be considered a serious offense. Procedures for drills and/or The use of cellular telephones and other electronic communica- evacuations are as follows: tion devices in school is strictly prohibited. Also, phones in the 1. Students are to leave the classroom by single file. main office are not for student use. If there is an emergency, 2. Everyone is to leave the building. students should report to their house office for assistance. 3. Always be prepared to change direction in leaving the building in order to adapt to blocked exits. STUDENT MESSAGES DURING SCHOOL DAY 4. If in the auditorium or gym, proceed to the nearest In order to promote a focused and academic environment, exit in an orderly fashion. free of interruptions, the school will only deliver EMERGENCY 5. Students, in lavatories and locker rooms, should pro phone messages from parents/guardians. ceed to the nearest exit and report to a staff member. 6. In the event of a fire drill during the passing of classes, proceed to the nearest exit in an orderly manner and report HOMEROOM PERIOD to a staff member. Homeroom period is built in to first period. All daily announce- 7. Students are to WALK and remain in a line with their ments, appointments, and messages occur at this time. teacher outside the building, & report to the holding area. Additional time is also built in during period #9 for public announcements. Special Instructions for Students with Limited Mobility BUS CONDUCT To ensure persons with limited mobility will be able to exit the The school bus is an extension of the school and student behav- building in a safe and efficient manner, the following guide- ior will be evaluated by the same standards. Eating on the bus lines have been established: may be prohibited, at the driver’s discretion. Students must 1. Each floor in the building will have an emergency follow the behavior guidelines and procedures of MHS while transport chair located in each House. boarding and riding the bus to and from school and school- 2. Two staff members per floor will be assigned to assist sponsored activities. The driver or bus aide will write a referral any evacuating persons with limited mobility down for any behavior that is inappropriate. Examples of inappropri- the stairs. ate behavior include, but are not limited to: 3. Any persons needing assistance during an evacuation should be directed to the nearest House office. • vulgar language • refusal to comply with bus rules AFTER HOURS EVACUATION • eating and drinking If a fire alarm sounds after school, on a weekend, or on a • harassment holiday break, all personnel in the building must evacuate • inappropriate gestures to those inside or outside the building utilizing the nearest exit. Students leaving the the bus building will be supervised by their teacher, advisor or coach. • failure to sit in assigned seat. No one may reenter the building until the “all clear” has been given by the responding fire chief. Failure to follow these rules will result in the appropriate actions determined by the student’s House Dean. VISITORS The building administration is responsible for all persons in COMPREHENSIVE ATTENDANCE POLICY the building and on school grounds. To this end, the following A key component of academic success is consistent, full-day rules apply to visitors to the school: attendance. Missing class time can result in poor academic performance and lower student achievement. Further absence 1. Anyone who is not a regular staff member or student of the from classes or school may result in denial of credit. As part school will be considered a visitor. of its obligation to encourage students to attend school, the 2. All visitors to the school must report to the security desk Enlarged City School District of Middletown is committed to in the front lobby upon arrival at the school. Visitors will be creating a safe, nurturing environment in our schools. issued a visitor’s identification badge, which must be worn at all times while in the school or on school grounds. The visitor The responsibility for attending school is shared by the student, must return the badge to the front desk before leaving the parents and the school. Students have the responsibility to building. attend their regular scheduled class or classes and to make 3. Any unauthorized person on school property will be re- up work that is missed for excused reasons. Parents have ported to the Director of Building Administration or his/her a responsibility to stress the importance of attendance and designee. Unauthorized persons will be asked to leave. If the minimize the amount of class time their children miss. When situation warrants, the police may be called. absences, tardiness or early departures occur, parents are re- 4. All visitors are expected to abide by the rules for public sponsible for notifying the school of the reason. Teachers have conduct on school property contained in the Code of Conduct. a responsibility for recording and reporting accurate attendance 5. All visitors must have a valid picture I.D. data and to provide students the opportunity to make up work that is missed for excused reasons. School administrators are responsible for reviewing attendance records and notifying par- 11 ents when missed instruction time (regardless of whether it is o Staff assigned to café doors will close doors 30 seconds excused or not) may affect a student’s academic performance. after late bell The school is also responsible for addressing the factors of o Students who arrive without a pass will serve an immedi- excessive absenteeism that are under its control. ate 15 minute lunch detention Parents/Guardians will be notified if a student has excessive o Students must have a pass to enter/exit the cafeteria absences, tardiness or early departures, and they may be requested to meet with school personnel to address the situ- CLASS CUTTING ation. In addition, MHS administrators may impose disciplin- When a student is not present in class and they are not reflect- ary sanctions for chronic or excessive absenteeism, tardiness ed as absent on the daily attendance sheet on a given day, a cut or early departure. These sanctions may include detention, slip will be submitted to the appropriate House. Administration suspension and/or referral to Family Court. will determine the nature of the absence and the teacher’s copy will be returned with details and a determination. STUDENT MAKE-UP WORK 1. In cases of excused absences, it is the student’s responsibil If the absence is determined to be a cut, the appropriate conse- ity to request daily assignments missed. It is likewise the quences will be applied. Class cutting applies to all scheduled teacher’s obligation to fulfill the student’s request. This classes. Offenses are tallied separately for each course. For does not pertain to assign ments given prior to the date of each offense reported by a teacher, if it is determined to be a the absence. cut, the House will notify the parent/guardian. 2. The time allowed for making up assignments should be one day for each day missed. Consequences are as follows: 3. Cases of absence due to serious illness, accidents and other 1st Offense: 4 periods of ISS and parent/guardian contact reasons approved by the administration will be treated on 2nd Offense: 1 day of ISS and parent/guardian conference an individual basis after consultation between the teacher 3rd Offense: 2 days of ISS and parent/guardian conference and counselor. 4th Offense: 1 day of OSS and parent/guardian conference 5th Offense: 2 days of OSS and parent/guardian conference LATE TO SCHOOL POLICY Students arriving to school late will be given a pass to class EARLY STUDENT RELEASE indicating the time of arrival and his/her official attendance Throughout the school year, students may need to be released will be recorded as late to school. At the second, fourth, sixth, from school early due to illness or family emergencies, among etc., lateness to school, students are assigned an after school other things. The school district has compiled some helpful PM detention by the Home/School Liaison (this is for ALL late reminders and guidelines for parents in this regard. arrivals). • Parents are urged to make appointments with physicians, Parents will be notified daily by the Home School Liaisons if dentists, special tutors, etc., after school hours. If a release is their child was late to school. necessary, parents should write a note with the date, time and reason for the release. LATE TO CLASS POLICY The teacher will assign detention when a student is illegally • No student may be released from school to anyone other late to class. than the parent, guardian or child protective services person- • Detention is to be served within 48 hours of being assigned nel and law enforcement officers pursuant to law, unless the • Parent notification is required individual’s name seeking release of the student appears on the • Teachers will hold any teacher assigned detention in their Pupil-Family Information Form. classrooms from 2:20-2:40 PM. • If the student fails to report to detention, the teacher will • A student may be released to either parent unless a custodial assign a second detention parent supplies the Superintendent of Schools with a certified o Same circumstances as the first detention apply copy of a court order or divorce decree to the contrary. • If student fails to report for detention the second time o Teacher writes a referral Students under the age of 18 years old, who are not 100% o Parent contact is made by the teacher emancipated, will not be allowed to leave school unless a o Dates of missed detentions will be written on referral person who is on the Pupil-Family Information Form physi- o Consequences will be determined by the House Dean cally picks up the child. Early release is permitted only after a • Chronic Lateness: note from a parent/guardian is submitted to the attendance o Teacher will inform parent office. This is to be done immediately upon student arrival in o Teacher will inform the Home School Liaison the morning. At this time, the attendance office will contact o Teacher will take further steps such as arranging for a par- the parent/guardian to confirm the time and reason for early ent conference, Home School Liaison involvement and admin- release. The parent/guardian must complete the sign-out log in istrative support, etc. the attendance office before the student is released. • Late to Lunch – If student is over 30 seconds late to lunch:

12 EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION All students must have a completed Pupil-Family Informa- STUDENT LOCKERS AND OTHER STORAGE PLACES tion Form on file. A student will only be released to people School lockers and school storage spaces are the property of listed on this form. Verbal authorization will not suffice. If a Middletown High School. This means that student lockers and student’s address or phone number changes, a new form must other school storage places are subject to search at any time be completed and signed by a legal guardian. Forms may be by school officials without prior notice to students and without obtained from House Offices. their consent. Locks and lockers

CAFETERIA/LOCKERS 1. Every effort will be made to assign each student a locker. 2. Non-assigned locks will be removed. 3. Lockers may NOT be shared. CAFETERIA 4. Students are responsible to maintain their lockers. No graf- Students may visit the cafeteria only during their assigned fiti or stickers may be placed in them. Students will be respon- lunch period or during the official before-school breakfast sible for any permanent damage to their lockers and financial time. Students may socialize at their tables using appropri- renumeration may be required. ate voice levels. After eating, students must remove all trays, 5. Lockers may be confiscated if a student does not adhere to utensils and trash to the proper disposal area(s). Littering is these parameters. prohibited. No food or drink may be taken out of the cafete- Use of lockers ria, except in the case of students serving in-school suspen- 1. At no time will the excuse of being delayed at the locker be sion. Students may not leave the cafeteria during their lunch accepted as a legitimate reason to be late to class. period without the appropriate documentation (verbal expla- nations are not acceptable). Failure to adhere to these rules will lead to disciplinary action. ACADEMICS

BREAKFAST COLLEGE AND CAREER CENTER The most important meal of the day is breakfast. It fuels the Students who violate the student Dress Code shall be required body and mind to work at optimum levels. All students are to modify their appearance by covering or removing the offend- encouraged to eat a healthy, well-balanced breakfast each ing item, and if necessary or practical, replace it with an accept- morning. MHS serves breakfast every day. Students may pro- able item. Any student who refuses to do so shall be subject to cure breakfast in the cafeteria prior to first period. Food must discipline, up to and including suspension. be eaten in the cafeteria only. Students faced with the task of deciding what to do after high LUNCH PERIODS school are often confused and overwhelmed. The College and Career Center at Middletown High School works closely with 1. Most students are assigned to one of the five lunch periods the Guidance Department to help students and their parents in the daily schedule. Lunch will be sold only during these understand the college admissions process, maximizing stu- designated periods. dents’ chances of being accepted at their school of choice. 2. All students are expected to put their garbage in the garbage pails. The College and Career Center offers students college advise- 3. All tables must be cleared on top and underneath before ment, college catalogs, books, videos, and Bridges, a web- leaving the cafeteria. based college and career planning program, to help narrow 4. Students will conduct themselves in an orderly, respectful their search. In addition, the Center publishes the College Plan- manner. ner and Scholarship Guide for high school students and hosts a 5. Students abusing their cafeteria privilege will be disciplined variety of workshops for students and parents. There is also a at the discretion of the building administrators. Disciplinary guide for Parents of College-Bound students available. action can range from being placed in detention to being suspended from school. The College Planner, a 35-plus page publication, takes students 6. Food may not be taken outside the cafeteria. step-by-step through the college application process—planning for junior and senior year, taking the SAT/ACT and Subject Tests, LUNCH PASSES choosing a college, getting the most from college visits, and Students who do not have a scheduled lunch period may handling applications and financial aid. The Scholarship Guide request a lunch pass from their guidance counselor. This pass describes local and national scholarships available to college- entitles students to a 10 minute time period to receive lunch bound students. Students can download the College Planner, in an expedited manner, eat and return to class. Students Scholarship Guide, and the Guide for Parents of College Bound are not allowed to remove food or drink from the cafeteria. Students online at www.middletowncityschools.org/mhs/Col- Students must display their pass to staff posted at the door. If legeCareerCenter/home.htm. a student does not display his or her pass, he or she will not be admitted to the cafeteria. Further, if a student is missing too much class time, the lunch pass may be revoked.

13 The College and Career Center hosts an annual College Fair at 2. If the first quarter marking period grade is less than 80%, a Middletown High School where more than 60 universities and warning letter will be sent to the parents/guardians by the stu- colleges attend annually. From private four-year universities dent’s teacher. The warning letter will state that if the student to two-year colleges to SUNY schools, high schoolers have the continues to perform below an 80% average at the end of the opportunity to meet with various college admission counsel- second quarter, the student will be removed from the honors ors to find the school that is right for them. An annual Alumni program for that subject. College Fair is also hosted at the school. As part of the fair, current high schoolers get the chance to meet with Middletown 3. At the end of second quarter, if the student has not achieved alumni to learn about their college experiences. the 80% average, the final portion of the warning letter will be Lisa Parker and Laura Brissing, College and Career Center advi- sent home to the parents/guardians by the student’s House sors, are available daily to meet with high-schoolers to discuss Principal. career and college opportunities and search strategies. To learn more about the services and programs the College and 4. At the end of third quarter, similar to the first quarter, a Career Center offers or to make an appointment at the Center, warning letter will be sent home to the parents/guardians of any call (845) 326-1611. student who has not maintained an 80% average in the honors COLLEGE & HONORS COURSES course.

5. At the end of fourth quarter, any student who does not have SUPA (Syracuse University Project Advance) an 80% final average in the course will not be placed in the hon- SUPA College Learning Strategies ors program for September. The final portion of the warning let- SUPA College Statistics ter will be sent to the parents/guardians of the student inform- SUPA Economics ing them of the student’s removal from the honors program and SUPA Accounting the change in the placement for the upcoming year. SUPA Psychology SUPA Public Policy 6. The student must maintain a score of 80% or higher on the SUPA American History New York State Regents Exam to be placed in the honors course SUPA Earth Systems Science for the following year. SUPA Forensic Science SUPA College Writing & REading SUPA Biology CHANGE IN COURSE PLACEMENT FROM SUPA Chemistry REGENTS TO HONORS: SUPA Physics In order to be recommended for honors placement, the follow- SUPA Spanish ing criteria should be met: 1. Maintain a final course average of 90% or higher List of Honors Courses: 2. Receive a grade of 80% or higher on the New York Studio in Art Honors State Regents Exam Honors English 9-11 3. A teacher must recommend the student for honors Honors Integrated Algebra placement Honors Integrated Algebra II 4. If requesting placement in an English honors course, a Honors Integrated Geometry writing sample must be submitted,and reviewed by the Honors Trigonometry Department Chairperson. Honors Pre-Calculus 5. The above criteria will be placed on a summative form by Honors Calculus the teacher and submitted to the Department Honors Biology Chairperson. the Department Chairperson will review in Honors Chemistry conjunction with the Subject’s Instructional Leader. Honors Global History 9 & 10 Honors Chorus Honors Band GRADING SYSTEM • Parents/guardians will be informed regularly; at least eight times a year, of the student’s progress. HONORS PLACEMENT GUIDELINES FOR • The use of codes will be appropriately explained on prog- STUDENTS & PARENTS ress reports and report cards. The Honors Program provides an enriched curriculum so that • Grading will be based, in part, upon student improvement, students can build a strong knowledge and problem solving achievement, and participation in classroom discussions foundation that will allow them to excel at the post-secondary and activities. level. However, to maintain the integrity of the program, cer- tain criteria must be met: STUDENT ACADEMIC PROGRESS REPORTS 1. The student must maintain a minimum of an 80% Teachers may send a progress report to the parents/guardians average per quarter/ semester. of any student who is doing satisfactory and/or unsatisfactory

14 work at any time. This notice will inform the parents/guard- EXAMINATIONS ians of their son’s and/or daughter’s progress or lack thereof Quarterly assessment examinations will be given in all content and may contain a request for a conference with the parents/ areas throughout the school year. Final examinations will be guardians. given in all twenty and forty-week courses at the end of the course. All students must be present for all quarterly assess- SUMMER SCHOOL ments and final examinations. A medical excuse signed by a Students may only enroll in summer school if they have re- physician is required to enable students to make-up examina- mained in the regular school year course for all quarters and tions. Only in a unique and serious situation will such an excep- have earned a minimum final grade of 50%. In cases of denial tion be granted. Written approval from the student’s House of credit, a student my only attend if he/she scores at least a Principal is required prior to providing a make-up examination. 50% on the final exam. Summer school is offered for remedia- HONOR ROLL tion purposes only. Also, please note that not all courses are Students will be recognized for their academic achievement in offered during summer school. many ways throughout the school year. Honor Roll and High Honor Roll will be posted quarterly, by grade level. HOMEWORK Honor Roll: 84.5 – 89.4 Homework is recognized as an extremely valuable compo- High Honor Roll: 89.5 and above nent of daily instruction, and as an appropriate extension of activities begun in school, and is, therefore, encouraged. Cumulative averages for all credit-bearing courses will be uti- Homework assignments are mandatory. Credit is given for lized to calculate averages. completed assignments and conversely credit is lost for missing assignments. EXTRA-CURRICULAR AND CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES TEXTBOOK USE POLICY Bible Club In order to ensure that all textbooks are maintained and Chess Club returned, the following procedures will be followed: College Ambassaors Club Drama Club 1. Each textbook will be numbered by the school. Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) 2. Upon receipt of the textbook, the student will examine the Green Garden Club book for any signs of misuse or abuse prior to his/her having Jazz Ensemble received it. Any conditions considered noteworthy shall be Key Club reported to the teacher. The teacher will affirm the condition Literary Magazine “Expressions” of the book and record this information. “Marching Middies” Marching Band 3. The student shall be made aware that he/she will be Math Team responsible if the book is damaged or not returned. “Middie Times” MHS School Newspaper 4. The student will be responsible for covering the text Middletown Athletes Care (MAC) book and entering his name and class in the appropri- Mock Trial Club ate space on the inside cover of the book. Books shall National Art Honor Society (Art Club) be kept free of loose papers, personal articles, etc. National Honor Society No stray marks, underlining or handwriting shall be Pipers permitted in those textbooks issued. S.A.D.D. 5. The teacher will maintain periodic checks of the condi Scholastic Bowl tion of each textbook issued to students. Senior Enrichment 6. Students failing to maintain and/or return their books Student Council at the end of the course will be required to pay for the Swimming and Diving Club (Boys and Girls) replacement of the cost of the damaged book(s). Yearbook Club 7. It is the policy of this school district not to loan text Youth in Government Club books to students who have failed to return or pay for replacement of previously loaned textbooks or library STUDENTS IN ASSIGNED STUDY HALLS books. Furthermore, the Board of Education also Students in assigned study halls may go to the library with a reserves the right to take legal action against the par pass. Students must first report to their assigned study hall for ents/guardians of a pupil who have failed to complete attendance-taking purposes. The study hall teacher should list the payment of a fine assessed for the loss, damage or the names of any such students coming to the library and have defacement of a textbook. one student bring this list to the library staff member at the circulation desk.

15 ASSEMBLIES form that is submitted at least five (5) days prior to the Student assemblies are carefully selected to enhance the dance. school curriculum and are seen as part of the overall educa- • Any guest who is not a current Middletown Student must tional process. Attendance is strongly encouraged. Students have a completed Middletown High School Guest Form and are reminded of proper conduct at assemblies and students it must be submitted to the faculty advisor of the dance no should: less than ten (10) school days prior to the event. All guests may only be approved by the Director of MHS Administra- 1. Remain with their class and teacher. tion 2. Pay attention to the speaker/performer. • Appropriate dress is required. If the administration deems 3. Not talk, or use any electronic equipment. an outfit to be inappropriate (promotes drugs, sex, or de- 4. Applaud only when appropriate. means race, color origin, religion, and/or sexual preference, etc.) or is too risqué, or sexually suggestive, the student will Parents who wish to remove their child from assemblies not be granted admittance. must provide a written note 24 hours before the start of the • Inappropriate language, behavior and mannerisms will not assembly. Students will not be allowed to leave school be tolerated. grounds unless their parent comes to school to sign them • Dancing that is sexual in nature will not be tolerated. If out. inappropriate dance is conducted, the student will be asked to leave the event and school grounds. FIELD TRIPS • Anyone who is under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol will not be admitted and the police will be contacted im- Field trips are an extension of the education program. Any mediately. student may be denied a field trip if he/she has been disrup- • All students must follow the district’s code of conduct tive, insubordinate, or has otherwise created a discipline policy. problem in school, or is not academically eligible. Student attendance may also cause a student to be denied access to the field trip. Students who attend field trips may be SPORTS subjected to a luggage/personal search. Students who have outstanding disciplinary obligations will not be allowed to participate. INTERSCHOLASTIC SPORTS Basketball – Boys & Girls Baseball FIELD TRIPS (BUSES) Cheerleading – Football/Basketball Advisors/coaches are in charge of student conduct. Parents Cross Country – Boys & Girls are invited and encouraged to chaperone selected school Football field trips. Any parent interested should contact their child’s Golf - Boys & Girls teacher. Behavior that discredits MHS will not be tolerated. Indoor Track – Boys & Girls Students are expected to leave and return on the same bus. Lacrosse – Boys & Girls Parents who want their child(ren) to return in the family Outdoor Track – Boys & Girls vehicle must secure permission at 24 hours before the trip Skiing - Boys & Girls from the advisor/coach and subject administrator. Soccer – Boys & Girls Softball LUGGAGE SEARCH Swimming & Diving – Boys & Girls Students who attend overnight trips will be subject to a lug- Tennis - Boys & Girls gage search. Parents may be present for the search. If the Volleyball student or parent refuses the search, the student will not be Wrestling permitted to attend the field trip. If an inappropriate item is found in the luggage, the student will not be permitted to go on the field trip. In addition, further disciplinary action ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES • All athletes will be required to have a progress report sheet by the school may be taken, as well as a request for police filled out by their teachers at the beginning of their seasons. intervention if necessary. • These sheets are used to monitor how student/athletes SCHOOL DANCES are doing in their classes and to see if there needs to be academic intervention. The following rules govern all school dances: • Students that are found to be failing 1 or more classes will • Doors will close sixty (60) minutes after the start time. be placed on academic probation and will be required to No students will be granted admittance after this time. attend academic study hall during their lunch periods for • Students are not allowed to re-enter the dance after potentially the duration of their activity. they have exited. • Students that are found to be failing classes will have their • All students must have a complete student permission grades monitored every two weeks for the duration of their season. • Students that are failing multiple classes for several weeks

16 will put themselves in jeopardy of being suspended ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY FOR ATHLETES from playing in games/matches for 2 weeks. • Students failing and not making an effort (30) in one or more POSSIBLE TIMELINE courses will be subject to disciplinary action. • It is the teacher’s responsibility to inform the coach/advisor 2-3 Weeks Into Season: 1st Progress report filled out of a student’s failing grade. • There will be a form issued to each participant by the coach/ Passing all classes: No penalty advisor. At the end of every one-week period, the student • Failing 1 class: Must attend study hall will be responsible for securing each teacher’s signature on • Failing 2 or more classes: Must attend study this form. The form will then be returned to the coach/advi- hall, on probation for 2 weeks sor the same Friday. • If failing 1 or more the student/athlete will be • If the form indicates that the student is failing, he/she will required to fill out another progress report sheet be on a one-week warning. At the end of the week, the after 2 weeks. student will be required to have another form signed. At the end of this one-week period, a student’s continued failure At 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15 Weeks: 2nd – 7th Progress report for will result in the following: athletes that were failing 1 or more classes --The student must participate in practices and/or meetings during the next two-week period but not\ • Failing none from failing 1: Out of study hall, but be allowed to participate in games, meets, or any still monitored away activity. The student is also required to attend • Failing 1: Still in study hall but eligible a special daily after-school study hall • Failing 2 after failing 1: Still in study hall, still and tutorial for athletes during the probationary eligible, on probation for 2 weeks. period. • Failing 2 or more after failing 2: Not eligible to --If the grade is not raised to passing during this three- play for 2 weeks but can still practice. week period, the student will become ineligible for \ • Failing 2 or more after 4 weeks: Not eligible to the remainder of the season. play or practice with the team until grades • Students must earn 4.5 credits during the academic year to improve. be eligible for interscholastic and extra-curricular activities for the subsequent year. Students are required to attend study hall every day in order to maintain their eligibility. RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR ATHLETES

Students that do not hand in progress reports completely • It is understood that students who join a team or club are filled out and returned on time will be assumed to be failing making a commitment to themselves, the other members, multiple classes and will be evaluated as such. the coach/advisor, and Middletown High School. • An athlete who quits a team during the season may not • In order for an athlete to be eligible for athletics, he/she join another team without the approval of both coaches must meet the eligibility requirements governing inter- involved. If the coaches cannot arrive at a decision, then the scholastic athletics as set forth by the New York State Appeals Board will render one. High School Athletic Association with regard to age and • Students may resign from a team or club to pursue another level of competition. The athlete representing Middle- extracurricular activity. They must provide the coach or town must also meet the requirements of Section IX advisor with reasons for the resignation. and the O.C.I.A.A. • Since it is a privilege for you to represent the school as VIOLATION OF THE CODE (ATHLETES) part of the extracurricular program, you should realize that your conduct and sportsmanship both in and out of • An athlete/student may be suspended from participation, school, draws constant attention from other students, depending upon the violation of the Eligibility Code. the faculty and the public. Therefore, you will bring • If a student is expelled from a sport/activity for a violation credit and respect to the school and community. of the Eligibility Code, he/she may not join another sport/ • Dress Code: Since appearance is an important part of activity during that season. the student’s pride and responsibility toward the activity, he/she will be required to adhere to the dress code established by that particular activity. Appropriate attire is important both in school and when traveling to another school or district.

17 BUS TRAVEL (GAMES) STUDENT DISCIPLINE

• Students are expected to travel to and from an activity/ SUSPENSIONS game with the transportation provided by the school. The Middletown Board of Education recognizes the importance Expectations may be made through written request of school attendance. Therefore, suspension or expulsion from from the parent/guardian given to the coach/advisor school must be viewed as a last resort in dealing with student prior to the event. disciplinary infractions. The Board also recognizes the need to • Students are expected to dress appropriately in uniform, remove unruly or disruptive students form the regular class so or other appropriate dress, as directed by their coach/ that learning can take place in the classrooms. advisor when traveling. • The bus driver and/or coach/advisor has complete au- thority over all pupils and power to enforce all rules and SINGLE TIME OUT PERIOD (S.T.O.P.) regulations on the bus. If a student disrupts class and has been addressed by the teacher • Any misconduct and/or disobedience will lead to dis- and the behavior does not cease, then the teacher can remove ciplinary action by the coach/advisor and, if necessary, the student to the S.T.O.P. room for the remainder of the period. referred to the Appeals Board. Students may be removed to S.T.O.P. for infractions such as continued talking in class or disrupting other students from participating in the lesson. Students may not be removed for a lack of BEHAVIOR CODE FOR ATHLETES preparation, or not completing homework, etc. If a pattern of consistent S.T.O.P. attendance develops for a student, the House • Participants are expected to attend school. Any student Principal will be informed and further disciplinary action may missing more than four periods in one day may not par- follow. ticipate in any athletic content on that day. If a student misses more than four periods on a day preceding a day(s) when school is closed, the student cannot par- IN SCHOOL SUSPENSION (ISS) ticipate in their next scheduled contest. Participating in The Board of Education authorizes the Executive Principal and school-related activities outside school, or attending a the House Principals to place students, who would otherwise be funeral, are exceptions. Exceptions due to emergencies suspended from school as a result of a Code of Conduct viola- can only be granted by the Athletic Director. tion, in “In School Suspension.” ISS is the temporary removal • Participants are responsible for the uniforms and equip- of a student from the classroom to a self-contained classroom. ment assigned to him/her by the coach/advisor. The Students will receive substantially equivalent, alternative educa- student will be required to pay for lost equipment and tion or assignments provided by their content teachers. Stu- equipment damaged through misuse. dents who are disruptive in ISS may be subject to out of school • Any participant caught stealing equipment, uniforms suspension. or destroying school property will be immediately OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION dismissed from the team/club for the remainder of the The Board of Education, Superintendent and/or Building Princi- season. pals will have the power to suspend students for infractions of • Any participant caught possessing or using alcohol rules of conduct for periods not to exceed five school days. The or drugs during a school activity, will be immediately Board and/or Superintendent may suspend a student for longer dismissed from the team/club for the remainder of the than five school days. In such cases, the Superintendent will time that the team/club meets. afford the student the opportunity for a hearing with respect to • The school behavior code applies to all athletes during the basis of such suspensions. The hearing will comply with the a supervised athletic activity. All items in the “Athletic Education Law as outlined in Section 3214. Contract” are hereby included as part of the student handbook. A student of compulsory age will be afforded alternative educa- • Any participant serving in-school suspension for two or tion services in the event that he/she is suspended for regular more periods in one day may not participate in an ath- instruction. letic contest during the day of suspension. He/she may participate in practice. Any participant assigned to in- Students who are suspended from school may not be on school school suspension during any two or more days in one property for any reason during the day(s) of their suspension. week must miss any scheduled contest for that week. This exclusion is inclusive of any buildings within the Enlarged • Any student serving an out-of-school suspension may City School District. Also, suspended students may not attend not participate in any practice, athletic contest, or any school-sponsored event or activity at or away from the activity during the day(s) of suspension. If the period of school during the day(s) of their suspension. suspension includes a weekend or holiday, the student may not participate in any activity, practice or game -dur ing the weekend or holiday period.

18 STUDENT SEARCHES AND INTERROGATIONS

In order to maintain a safe and orderly educational environment, any school official authorized to impose a disciplinary penalty on a student may question a student about an alleged violation of law or the district Code of Conduct. Students are not entitled to any sort of Miranda-type warning before being questioned by school officials, nor are the school officials required to contact a student’s parent/ guardian before questioning the student. However, school officials will tell all students why they are being questioned.

The Board of Education authorizes the Superintendent, Building Administrators, School Nurse, and School Security Aides to conduct searches of students and their belongings if the authorized school official has reasonable suspicion to be- lieve that the search will result in evidence that the student violated the law or District Code of Conduct.

19 Ann Hall Director of Guidance and Student Services

Middletown High School 24 Gardner Avenue Extension Middletown, NY 10940 (845) 326-1632