Spencer-Van Etten Middle School

Home of the Panthers

Parent Handbook 2016-2017 Spencer-Van Etten Middle School 1 Center St. Spencer, NY 14883

Our District Believes... IN A SAFE, RESPECTFUL AND TRUSTING ENVIRONMENT · In respecting social, racial, ethnic differences and diversity of opinion · Everyone is entitled to a safe, supportive and nurturing environment

IN PURSUING EXCELLENCE · The pursuit of excellence is essential to success · Learning is the focus of the school · Effective teachers foster student success · Health and wellness are critical to learning

THAT ALL INDIVIDUALS CAN LEARN · Each student has a unique set of needs that must be met as well as a unique set of talents/or abilities that must be championed in order for all students to access opportunities to reach their potential · There are multiple modes of learning and multiple measures of student success · In order to foster the lifelong love of learning, learning must be enjoyable and meaningful

IN BUILDING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS · Instilling a healthy competitive nature in our children is part of the educational process · Healthy family, community and school relationships enable success for all · Our school community will provide a social, emotional, and supportive structure

IN POSITIVE INVOLVEMENT · Family, community and school involvement is an integral part of a successful educational process · Students and teachers will actively engage in the educational process

IN HUMAN DIGNITY · Every individual has value · Every individual has something to contribute · Every individual needs to be treated with dignity

IN COMMUNICATING EFFECTIVELY · Effective communication is essential for success · Effective communication promotes engagement

IN RESPONSIBILITY · We all play a role in fiscal responsibility in our community, schools and homes · All students should leave our system with a sense of civic and environmental responsibility, moral courage, integrity and self-respect as well as a set of critical thinking skills

SVE Middle School Learning Creed

I am a Spencer-Van Etten student. I have high expectations for myself. Today I will be the best that I can be.

Yesterday’s failures are behind me. Today’s successes are before me. I will make today the very best day.

I accept responsibility for my behavior. I control my destiny. I am a Panther!

We are…Panthers!

STUDENT CALENDAR 2016-2017

SEPTEMBER 2016 OCTOBER 2016 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT 1 2 3 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 8 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 9 No 10 11 12 13 14 15 Welcome School 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 16 17 18 19 20 21 22

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 23 24 25 26 27 28 29

25 26 27 28 29 30 30 31 NOVEMBER 2016 DECEMBER 2016 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3

6 7 8 9 10 No 11 12 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 School 13 14 15 16 ½ day 17 18 19 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 P/T Conf 20 21 22 No 23 No 24 No 25 26 18 19 20 21 22 No 23 24 School School School School 27 28 29 ½ day 30 25 No 26 No 27 No 28 No 29 No 30 31 P/T Conf School School School School School JANUARY 2017 FEBRUARY 2017 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT 1 No 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 School 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

15 No 16 17 18 19 20 21 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 School 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 19 No 20 21 22 23 24 25 School 29 30 31 26 27 28

MARCH 2017 APRIL 2017 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT 1 2 3 4 1

5 6 7 8 ½ day 9 10 11 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 P/T Conf 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 9 No 10 No 11 No 12 No 13 No 14 15 School School School School School 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 16 No 17 18 19 20 21 22 School 26 27 28 29 30 31 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 MAY 2017 JUNE 2017 SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

14 15 16 17 18 19 20 11 12 13 14 15 16 17

21 22 23 24 25 No 26 27 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 School Last Day 28 No 29 30 31 25 26 27 28 29 30 School

Spencer-Van Etten Middle School Staff 2016-2017

Office Areas Special Areas Eric Knolles Principal Dana Bennett Health/Home and Career Skills Larry Bleck Dean of Students David Campbell Physical Education Caroline Frisbie Secretary Maggie Childs Physical Education Zach Holmes Secretary Dewitt Grove Technology Donna Gulde Nurse Alex Hanessian Instrumental Music Dan Craven Guidance Counselor Linda Hollenbeck Computer Lab Lara Rogan Social Worker/Counselor Zach Holmes Monitor Jack Wiiki Planning Room Supervisor Sandy Holmes Library / Media Center Jennifer Swayze Volunteer Coordinator Nicole McCarthy Art Laura Voorhees Vocal Music & Chorus Fifth Grade Alana Ackley Math & Science Custodial Staff Cafeteria Emily Cron Humanities & Literacy John Barton (night) Laura Cody Enock Francois Student Support Steve Horyczun (day) Hope Munson Ricky Lindblad Teaching Assistant Kay Carling (night) Rob Myers Math & Science Don Loomis (night) Stephanie Panfel Humanities & Literacy Amanda Rice Teaching Assistant Support Services T.J. Anderson School Psychologist Sixth Grade Kelley Cook Tioga County Counselor Toni Bloss Math & Science Stefanie Smith Speech Language Pathologist Tammy Crissey Teaching Assistant Johanna Sparks Occupational Therapy Nicole DeLaney Humanities & Literacy Korie Fitzgerald Student Support Middle School Bell Schedule Kimberly Haney Math & Science Jeannette Luther Humanities & Literacy 7:45 a.m. School Building Opens to Students

7th Grade 7:45-8:00 Breakfast or Supervised Area James Carmony Humanities Rick Decker Science 8:00 a.m. First Bell John Everett Humanities Katy Gimma Science LTS 8:03-9:03 Period 1 Emily Meyer Math Katherine Richards Student Support 9:06-10:04 Period 2 Anni Ryan Teaching Assistant 10:07-11:05 Period 3 8th Grade

Brenda Anderson Student Support 11:05-11:35 Period 4 5/6 Lunch Doreen Decker Teaching Assistant

Lisa Evertts French & Spanish 11:35-12:05 Period 5 7/8 Lunch Leslee Lindhorst Math

Bret McDermott Humanities 12:08-12:48 Period 6 Laurie Morrell Humanities

Mallory Ryan Science 12:51-1:31 Period 7 Student Support Pam Brock Math 1:34-2:14 Period 8 Angie. Holmes Literacy Katie Maitland Special Education 2:17-2:56 Period 9 Ruth Burlew Teaching Assistant Jessica Campolito Teaching Assistant 3:55 p.m. Extended School Bell Sarah Fisher Teaching Assistant

“Be where you are supposed to be – When you are supposed to be there – Doing what you are supposed to be doing!”

APPOINTMENTS WITH TEACHERS/PRINCIPAL Any time you wish to meet with a teacher, group of teachers or the principal, contact the school at 589-7120 to schedule an appointment. If you have a concern regarding a specific staff member, we ask that you first contact him or her directly. If after meeting, you still have concerns, contact the main office to set up an appointment to meet with the principal.

ARRIVAL & DISMISSAL PROCEDURES School Hours: 8:00-2:56 After School Program: 3:00-3:56 (includes homework club on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday). A late bus will be available.

Arrival 7:45: Doors are locked until 7:45. Students should not enter the building prior to that time unless arrangements have been made with staff.

Walkers: Walkers and students being dropped off are to enter through the front door – facing Academy St. Please do not drop students off on the street at the stop signs. It creates a safety issue. Parents should enter the parking lot by the tennis courts and drop students off at the sidewalk adjacent to the building. Parents will not be permitted to drop off or pick up students in the gym parking lot due to bus loading and unloading.

Breakfast: Breakfast begins at 7:45. Any student wanting breakfast must report to the cafeteria upon entering the building. Cafeteria privileges may be revoked for unsatisfactory behavior.

Morning Supervision: Students who do not wish to go to breakfast must report to their designated area.

Late Students: Students arriving after 8:03 are considered tardy and must report to the sign-in desk located in the planning room.

Dismissal 2:56: All students are to leave the building upon dismissal, unless staying after for a pre-arranged, supervised activity. Written parental permission is required to stay after school.

Changes to normal go-home plans: Students going anywhere other than their usual destination are required to have a note. Any student without a note will be required to go to their normal after-school destination.

Bus Students: Bus students are to exit the building through the doors by the bus circle immediately following the bell.

Walkers: Students being picked up are to exit through the front door (facing Academy St).

After school procedures: Students who stay after school must be supervised. Students must have a note to stay after which includes the supervised area and the reason you are staying. If a student would like to stay after with a teacher, he or she must make arrangements with the teacher prior to school that day.

Supervision at High School: Middle school students are not allowed to hang out at the high school unsupervised. Students should only be there if they are participating in a sport or other school activity that takes place at the high school, or with an adult.

ATTENDANCE It is expected that students will be to school on time and attend all classes. If your child is absent from school, please report the absence using “Safe Arrival” (1-844-553-3311 or sve.schoolconnects.com) prior to 8:00. If you do not report your child’s absence prior to 8 a.m. the “Safe Arrival Phone Caller” will contact you. Board policy states the following absences are considered excused absences: illness, religious holiday or observance, family death or severe illness, contagious disease in family or residence, professional appointments, college visitations, impassable weather or road conditions, court required appearances, approved school field trips, and approved work study employment or visitations. All other absences are considered to be unexcused.

Students who are late to school must report to the sign-in desk in the planning room and obtain a pass.

Students are not permitted to leave school, prior to dismissal, without being signed out by a parent, guardian or person designated by the parent/guardian.

If a student will be missing a scheduled class (music lesson, counseling, etc.) he or she must report to that class to sign in prior to going anywhere else. Otherwise he or she will be marked absent and consequences may apply.

CARE OF BUILDING AND GROUNDS Students will respect the building and rights of others to maintain a clean and safe environment. All students will take part in making our school a place to be proud of by keeping our school free of litter, graffiti and gum.

Vandalism: Any vandalism to school facilities may result in restitution and/or payment. Depending on the severity of the vandalism, additional consequences may apply.

CITIZENSHIP We expect all students to be part of the solution, not part of the problem by displaying the following citizenship characteristics:

Be Respectful Be a Problem Solver  Help others  Listen attentively  Wait their turn  Help others  Listen and follow directions  Work out issues peacefully  Respect others’ personal space and property  Have the courage to do the right thing  Use appropriate language Be Safe Be Responsible  Remain seated  Be on time  Keep hands, feet, and belongings to yourself  Be prepared by having all your materials ready  Use equipment and materials as directed  Participate and stay on task  Be aware of your surroundings  Do quality work  Report any unsafe situations to an adult  Be honest  Follow rules  Recycle

COMPUTER USAGE Students will have access to a computer network for internet use and completion of assignments. Students must agree to the Acceptable Use Policy the first time they log on each year.

Expectations: Students are responsible for appropriate behavior on school computer networks just as they are in the classroom or the halls. General school rules for behavior apply. Access may be revoked if abused. Depending on the severity of the abuse, additional consequences may apply.

Guidelines: The district has the right to view any and all information stored on school computers. Students should not share phone numbers, addresses, or other personal information about themselves or others. During school, teachers will guide students toward appropriate materials and monitor students while on the internet.

Students may check their personal e-mail accounts, for school related purposes, with permission from the teacher and or lab supervisor.

Unnecessary internet games, videos and music streaming slows down our network. We want to use our internet bandwidth wisely.

Rules: The following are not permitted (this list is not all-inclusive):  Internet games (that are not pre-approved by the teacher or supervisor).  Downloading, streaming or listening to music from websites.  Downloading videos or pictures, unless they are current events, school related activities, or educational “how to” demonstrations.  Downloading or installing any software, shareware, or freeware onto network drives and disks.  Removing or altering any hardware or software.  Damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks.  Sending or displaying offensive or threatening messages or pictures, including using obscene language, harassing, insulting, attacking or threatening others.  Violating copyright laws.  Using another person’s password and/or trespassing in another’s folders, work or files.

Spencer-Van Etten Central School District Network & Internet Acceptable Use Policy

The Spencer-Van Etten Central School District Board of Education considers computer access to the Internet to be a valuable tool for education. Staff and student uses of the Internet must be in support of education and consistent with the purposes of the Spencer-Van Etten Central School District. This access, through the District network, should be used to support and enhance instruction and professional development.

Because access to the Internet provides connections to systems located all over the world, staff, students, and parents of students must understand that neither the Spencer-Van Etten Central School District nor any individual District staff member controls the content available on these systems. Some of the information is controversial and may be offensive. The Spencer- Van Etten Central School District does not condone the use of such material.

The Spencer-Van Etten Central School District Board of Education considers network and Internet use to be a privilege not a right and that use entails responsibility. Staff Internet use is currently available via individual accounts. Student Internet use is currently available via individual accounts in grades 5 - 12 and shared class accounts in grades K - 4. CIPA compliant Internet filtering software will not eliminate the requirement to act responsibly. All District users have a responsibility to use the network in an appropriate and responsible manner following the rules set forth in this policy.

Failure to adhere to the regulations accompanying this policy will result in revocation of access privileges and may result in disciplinary action.

Users should expect only limited privacy in the contents of their personal files on the District system. Routine maintenance and monitoring of the system may lead to the discovery that users have violated this policy, the District / Building Discipline code or the law.

An individual account search may be conducted to determine if a user has violated this policy, the District Code of Conduct, or the law. The investigation will be reasonable and related to the suspected violation.

CONSENT FOR USE OF PHOTOGRAPHS/VIDEOS Throughout the school year, photographs or videotapes may be taken of students for use in District produced publications, videos, podcasts, webpages, or submitted to the news media. If you DO NOT wish your child to be photographed or videotaped, please indicate this in writing to your child’s school principal by September 15, 2016. E-mail does not constitute a written request; please write/type it on paper and mail/deliver. This request must be updated annually. Photos and videos produced by the district are the property of the district and not for use or reproduction without district consent.

CUSTODY/COURT ORDERS If you have a custody/court order or order of protection, that affects your child at school, you are required to provide the school with a copy of the most recent order. Without a court order on file, we cannot legally prevent another parent from picking up a child.

DISCIPLINE The Board of Education expects all students to conduct themselves in an appropriate and civil manner.

The middle school staff realizes we all make mistakes. Students will have the opportunity to correct their mistakes while also learning a better way to handle a situation and develop self-discipline.

The following unaccepted and prohibited student behavior is outlined in the SVE District Code of Conduct:

Unacceptable and Prohibited Student Behavior:

Conduct that is disorderly  Running in hallways and stairwells  Using inappropriate language or gestures  Not following safety procedures

Conduct that is insubordinate  Failing to comply with the reasonable directions of any school staff, including bus drivers  Leaving school without permission  Skipping class or detention  Lying or defiance  Using a cell phone during the school day

Conduct that is disruptive  Committing an act that interferes with the learning of others  Making unreasonable noise  Interrupting in class  Personal Display of Affection

Conduct that is violent  Committing or threatening physical harm  Possessing a weapon, displaying what appears to be a weapon, or threatening to use a weapon  Intentionally damaging or destroying property

Conduct that can be perceived as harassing or bullying  Intentionally making false statements about another person or group of people to cause harm  Discriminating against others  Harassing, bullying, ridiculing or demeaning others  Intimidating others  Sexual Harassment

Conduct that endangers the safety, morals, health or welfare of others  Stealing  Selling, using or possessing obscene material  Possessing, consuming, selling, distributing, and/or being under the influence of substances that include tobacco, drugs and alcoholic beverages  Indecent exposure  Making false emergency claims

Conduct that is unsafe or unruly while on a school bus  Distracting the bus driver  Disobeying bus rules and school code of conduct

Conduct that is academically unacceptable  Plagiarism  Cheating and/or copying  Altering records

Students demonstrating and/or assisting in any of the above behaviors will result in one or more of the following consequences: . Verbal warning . Suspension from transportation . Written warning . Suspension from social or extra-curricular activities . Removal from classroom by teacher including sports . Time-out . Suspension of other privileges . Lunch and/or after school detention . In-school detention . Parental phone call . Out-of-school suspension . Parental conference . Expulsion from school

In-School Suspension will include suspension from school activities for the time of the suspension, including after school or evening activities on the day of the suspension.

Out-of-School Suspension means that the student is suspended from school, all school events and school grounds, throughout the district for the period of the suspension, ending at 12:01 a.m. the following day.

Further consequences may include, but are not limited to: Superintendent’s Hearing and/or law enforcement involvement.

DRESS CODE Acceptable dress for school will include attire that is safe, appropriate, and does not distract the student or others from learning.

Acceptable dress:  Shirts will be long enough to cover the midriff, have modest necklines and straps that are a minimum of 2-finger width.  All undergarments must be completely covered.  Proper footwear must be worn at all times. For safety reasons, flip-flops, slides, slippers, and heelies will not be allowed. Some classes may require a certain type of footwear.  Hats and sunglasses must be stored in lockers.  Attire must be non-offensive, free of obscenities, and does not endorse alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs and/or violent activities.  Dresses, skirts and shorts should be no shorter than approximately finger-tip length (including slits).  Pajamas, robes, blankets, and pillows are not allowed.

Students who violate the student dress code will be required to modify their appearance by covering or changing the offending item before returning to the classroom.

School administration will make all final decisions regarding acceptable clothing.

EMERGENCY INFORMATION At the beginning of each school year, parents are asked to update emergency information files. It is very important that we know how to reach a parent or designated person in case of an emergency. If any changes are made during the school year concerning this information, including cell phones, be sure to notify your child’s school immediately.

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSINGS/DELAYS The primary consideration in a school closing is the safety of students. Factors relevant to safety include icy roads, reduced visibility, drifting snow, chill factor flooding, high wind and mechanical and health hazards at the school. If school is closed or delayed because of an emergency, the district will use our Rapid Connects phone system to notify student households in addition to posting on www.svecsd.org and broadcasting on the radio and TV stations listed below. Please be sure you have provided your child’s building office with your “crisis/emergency” contact information to ensure that you receive our calls.

Television Stations: WBNG-TV, WETM-TV, WENY-TV, WICZ-TV, WMGC-TV, WSKG-TV and WYSR-TV.

FM Radio Stations: Q104 (103.7), WAAL (99.1), WAVR (102.1), WBBI (107.5) WCHI (90.3), WCII (88.5), WENY (92.7), WHCU (97.3), WHGL (102.9), WICB (91.7), WINK (106.1), WLTB (101.7), WLVY (94.3), WMRV (105.7), WMXW (103.3), WOKN (99.5), WQNY (103.7), WRGI (100.9) and WXYL (97.3).

AM Radio Stations: WATS (960), WBRG (1050), WEBO (1330), WELM (1410), WENY (1230), WHCU (870), WHWK (1290), WKOP (1360), WNBF (1280), WPIE (1160), WQIX (820) and WTKO (1470).

In the event of a one or two-hour delayed school opening, buses will arrive at stops one hour (or two hours) later, and school will begin one hour (or two hours) later than usual. PLEASE DO NOT CALL your child’s school or the bus garage to ask if schools are closed or delayed. Instead, tune in to one of the television or radio stations for up-to-date information.

EMOTIONAL HEALTH & WELLNESS Emotional, social and mental health issues can significantly affect how a child succeeds in school, behaviorally, and how they relate to family members, peers, and teachers, among others! If issues are identified, interventions can be effective. The S-VE School District offers a School-Based Mental Health Clinic through Tioga County Department of Mental Hygiene, where students can meet with a counselor for assessment and individual and family therapy as needed. It is entirely free, voluntary, and confidential; parent consent is required.

If you are concerned about your child’s emotional, social, and/or mental health, contact the Middle School Guidance Counselor who can discuss with you further and may refer your child to begin these services. If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact the Middle School Office at 589-7120.

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Extra curricular activities including, but not limited to, field day, fun days, field trips, dances, etc. are an earned privilege. Students not fulfilling their academic, as well as social responsibilities, throughout the year, may be excluded from participation in these activities.

FIELD TRIPS Students must have a signed permission slip from the parent or guardian in order to attend field trips. Students not attending field trips will be given an alternate assignment.

When on a field trip, students are representing their school and community. All students will be expected to be on their very best behavior.

EVACUATION/FIRE DRILLS AND EMERGENCIES In the event of an evacuation/fire drill or emergency procedure all students are required to:  Immediately be quiet, listen and follow all instructions  Exit and re-enter the building quietly and orderly.  Remain silently with your class during the entire drill or emergency procedure.

FUNDRAISING IN SCHOOL Fundraising at school is limited to approved, school sponsored activities. Food must not be sold before or during the lunch periods.

GRADING PROCEDURES Students will be informed by each teacher of the grading system used in that class. The minimum passing grade is a 65, for all grade levels. Grades are posted on schooltool. We encourage you to check parent portal frequently to review your child’s grades. This will also help you to see if there are missing assignments for the marking period.

Report cards will be issued every six weeks on the Wednesday after the marking period ends. Report cards will be sent home in the Wednesday folder. Please watch for them. Marking periods end as follows:

 Marking Period 1: October 21st  Marking Period 4: March 10th  Marking Period 2: December 9th  Marking Period 5: April 28th  Marking Period 3: January 27th  Marking Period 6: June 16th

Incompletes: Students who receive an incomplete from a teacher have ten instructional days in which to make up the work. During the ten day period, the student may be placed on the ineligible list, depending on the circumstances. Failure to make up work will result in a failing grade for that assignment.

Ineligibility: Two or more failing grades

Students who are failing two or more classes at the time of a school sponsored event including dances and fun nights will not be allowed to participate. Sports ineligibility requirements will be provided by the athletic department at the beginning of each sport.

HEALTH OFFICE INFORMATION Illness or Injury: The school nurse evaluates all illnesses and injuries.

Students not feeling well should obtain a health office pass from the teacher. The nurse will evaluate the student and decide if he or she should be sent home or back to class. All calls must come from the nurse or her designee. Students are not permitted to call or text parents directly. This is a violation of the cell phone policy which will result in a consequence.

Any time a student is injured at school, he or she must see the nurse at the time of the injury.

Medication Administration: If possible, parents are advised to give medications at home and on a schedule other than school hours. If it is necessary that a medication be given during school hours, the legal regulations are as follows (these regulations also include over-the-counter medications):

 Medications must be brought to school by a parent or responsible adult in the original prescription bottle.  The physician prescribing the medication must fill out a doctor's order and a parent must give written permission.  Students are not allowed to carry any type of medication without proper authorization from a physician, the student’s parent/guardian and the nurse. Unless these steps are followed, school nurses are not allowed to dispense medication to your child. These rules are for your child's safety; they are also required by law. Physicals: NYS Education law requires that students in pre-k, kindergarten, 2nd, 4th, 7th and 10th grade as well as new students to the school district have a physical examination completed sometime during the school year. Students participating in school sports are required to have an up-to-date physical (within one year of the start of the sport) in order to be eligible to participate. We are requesting that your child be seen by their private health care provider (HCP) for a physical exam. Students typically receive a more thorough physical from their HCP as they know the child and his/her medical history. The school will provide physicals for those students who are unable to get one from their HCP.

Immunizations Requirements: All students must be in compliance with the immunization schedule outlined by the NYS Education Dept. Students will be excluded from school if they do not meet these requirements. Immunization requirements are listed in the district calendar and school website.

Insurance Information: Spencer-Van Etten students are covered by an insurance plan from Pupil Benefits Plan, Inc. This coverage is for students who need treatment for school-related accidents or injuries. All doctor and hospital bills must be submitted to the parents' insurance first; any amount that is not paid is then submitted to Pupil Benefits Plan by the parent/guardian. Parents/guardians are responsible for the first $100 then 20% of the remaining bill. This applies to people without insurance also. The school nurse in your building must complete a medical claim form for the parent/guardian to submit along with the necessary documentation required by Pupil Benefits Plan. Questions: If you have any questions about this matter, please call the school nurse in your child's building.

HOMEWORK FINDER Homework will be posted by 2:00 p.m. daily in homework finder. Homework finder is located on the SVE website (svecsd.org) under Schools: Middle School: Homework Finder.

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER The library will be available to students during school hours.

Circulation: All books and magazines, other than reference materials, may be signed out for a period of two weeks and may be renewed if no one else is waiting for them. Students may have out two books and one magazine at any given time. Students are expected to return or renew materials on time.

Students should contact the librarian if they notice any materials that are damaged. Students will be expected to pay for any items that have been lost, damaged or destroyed while signed out in their name.

LOCKERS Lockers are provided for the storage of books, clothing, and book bags. Students are assigned one locker. Students may not leave class to go to your locker except with special permission and a pass.

Some fifth grade lockers are open lockers located inside the classrooms. All other lockers have doors with locks and are located in hallways. Students must use the combination locks which are built into the locker doors. Personal pad locks are not allowed. School officials have the right to inspect and search lockers.

Gym lockers are for gym and sports items only.

Students are to keep their locker locked and not give their combination to any other student. Students should not leave money or valuables in their locker.

LOST AND FOUND If you are missing an item, please check the lost and found, located in the cafeteria. Items with names on them will be immediately returned to the student if found. Remember to only take items that belong to you. The school is not responsible for loss or theft of property.

LUNCH PROGRAM S-VE Cafeteria Charge Policy: Students will be allowed to charge up to the equivalent of three meals on their meal account. Once the three charge limit is reached, food services will provide cereal for breakfast and/or a sandwich alternative of peanut butter and jelly or cheese for lunch. The student’s normal meal pricing will be added to his or her account. Students will also not be allowed to make any a la carte purchases, including milk, until the charges are paid.

Free & Reduced Lunch Applications: Free & reduced lunch forms are available in all school offices, or can be downloaded directly from the school website. All applications are due by October 1st. Students that were on free/reduced lunch last year, will continue to receive that pricing until September 30th. At that time, any student not returning a new application will be charged full price for his/her lunch.

All families are encouraged to fill out a free and reduced lunch application.

MIDDLE SCHOOL BREAKFAST/LUNCH PRICES:

Breakfast: Full Price - $1.20 Reduced Price - $.25 Lunch: Full Price - $2.50 Reduced Price - $.25

MUSIC LESSONS Students must report to their scheduled class to sign-in, prior to attending music lessons. Students are responsible for handing in assignments and for any class work missed. If a unit test, period long exam, class event or major project is scheduled during the time of a music lesson, it is the student’s responsibility (prior to the lesson period) to make alternate arrangements with the classroom teacher and music teacher.

OWING MONEY OR MATERIALS Parents are responsible for any money owed or materials that have been lost or damaged while signed out by their child. Report cards will be withheld at the end of the year until the charges have been paid or the materials returned or paid for.

PARENT PORTAL Parent Portal is an important method of home/school communication available to parents of students in our district.

Parent Portal allows you to…  Review basic information on your child including name, birthdate, address, phone number  Access your child’s schedule, attendance, grades, discipline assignments  Contact your child’s teacher by e-mail

We encourage all parents to sign up. Please contact the main office at 589-7120 if you would like to set up a new account or have questions or changes regarding an existing account.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES The fall parent/teacher conferences are scheduled for November 17th and November 30th. Parents are strongly encouraged to schedule a fall conference. The spring parent/teacher conference is scheduled for March 9th. Teachers will contact you if they feel a conference is necessary. If you do not hear from your child’s teacher regarding a spring conference, but would like to meet with your child’s teacher, please call to schedule one. Conferences can be scheduled through the main office at 589-7120.

PARTNERS IN EDUCATION (PIE) PIE is our parent/teacher/community organization dedicated to supporting the middle school and its endeavors. We are a group of hard working, fun loving, caring individuals who want to help our students grow and succeed. We invite you to join us and become part of our group. It can only be better with you. We look forward to seeing new faces, hearing new ideas and working together. More information can be found on the school website.

PASS SYSTEM Students must have a pass in the halls during class time. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain the pass. Student passes are included in the back of the student organizer and should be used. Each student will be given one allotment of passes per quarter. Students wishing to visit the nurse’s office must use the health office pass. Passes will be given at the teacher’s discretion.

 Only one student at a time will be allowed to leave class to use the restroom.  Students wishing to confer with a faculty member must obtain a pre-signed pass from that person.  The office will not issue late passes for students late to class unless they were detained in the office.  Students late to class without a pass three, four and five times within one marking period will be assigned a lunch detention. Students being late more than five times will be assigned a lunch detention and an after-school detention.

PERSONAL BELONGINGS Any belongings that are distracting to the learning environment are not permitted during school hours. Examples of these items include electronics, laser pointers and cell phones (cell phones should not be out, on or operating during school hours without the supervision of a staff member. Students seen with any of these items will have them confiscated. The first time an object is taken away from a student, it will be kept in the school office until the end of the school day, at which time the student may pick it up. The second offense will require a parent/guardian to pick up the item.

Students are required to leave purses, bags and backpacks in their lockers during school hours.

The student is responsible for any money or items brought to school. Labeling personal items is highly recommended.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION Physical education class is designed to enhance a student’s health and fitness level while developing both individual and team skills.

Student Responsibilities:

Students will… . Change for Physical Education Class (7th and 8thgrades). . Wear appropriate footwear (sneakers) and clothing to class. . Lace footwear securely on their feet. . Participate in all activities at their own ability levels. . Cooperate with teachers and other students in class. . Take safety precautions when working with or around equipment and other students. . Be responsible for their lockers in the locker room (7th and 8th grades). . Practice good sportsmanship. . Demonstrate positive leadership qualities. . Follow directions and instructions for safety and to better their skills.

Participation Participation in physical education is a state mandate. Refusal to participate in class is a violation of our code of conduct and consequences will apply.

If a student refuses or is unprepared to participate in physical education class, he or she may not be able to participate in athletic practices and/or games on that day.

Excused Absences 1. Note from doctor/athletic trainer: The note will be honored for the period of time and the restriction of activities listed on the note. Students may need a doctor’s release to resume activity.

2. Note from parent/guardian: A note indicating physical injury or illness will be honored for one day only and must be approved by the school nurse. After that, a doctor/trainer note is required.

*Notes listed above will also apply to physical activities during recess, field day, etc.

PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION Public displays of affection are not permitted on school grounds.

SAFE ARRIVAL SafeArrival is the absence reporting system used by the Spencer-Van Etten School District. This system allows you to report your child’s absence using any of three ways; phone (1-844-553-3311); mobile app (SafeArrival app by Synrevoice Technologies); or web (sve.schoolconnects.com). More detailed information about this system can be found on our district website (svecsd.org).

SCHEDULING CHANGES Students will have until September 23rd to drop an elective course. To drop or add a course, students and parents must compete the add/drop form. Forms are available in the guidance office. Please contact the middle school guidance counselor, Dan Craven at [email protected] or at 607-589-7120 if you have any questions regarding your child’s schedule.

SPORTS SVEYA offers the following sports to students 12 years old and under. Fall: Cheerleading, Field Hockey, Football, Soccer Winter: Basketball, Wrestling Spring: Baseball, Softball

Students in 7th and 8th grades have the opportunity to participate in the following school sports: Fall: Cross Country, Field Hockey, Football, Soccer Nov/Dec: Boys Basketball, Volleyball Jan/Feb: Girls Basketball, Wrestling Spring: Baseball, Golf, Softball, Track

SPORTS PHYSICALS Any student wishing to play a school sponsored sport must have a physical. Physicals are good for one year. Sports physicals are offered though the school free of charge in the spring.

STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION / ANTI-HARASSMENT It is the policy of the Spencer-Van Etten School District not to permit discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, creed, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, economic status, marital status, sexual orientation or disability in the district’s educational programs, activities or employment.

Harassment may take the form of comments, name-calling, jokes, stalking, perpetuating rumors or gossip, offensive gestures or language, assault or any other behavior that is designed to annoy, intimidate or cause fear. Students should report anyone who discriminates against or harasses them to the teacher, principal or dean of students.

TELEPHONE USAGE School telephones are for business or emergency purposes only. Students using the office phone must have a signed pass stating the purpose of their call. Students will not be allowed to call home to make plans to go to another destination after school.

TEXTBOOKS Teachers will issue textbooks/materials to students throughout the course of the school year. Students are responsible for the proper care of all materials loaned to them by the school. Textbooks are to be kept clean and handled carefully. All books should have covers to aid in preventing damage. Students are responsible for lost or damaged books and materials, signed out in their name, and will be required to pay for the replacement cost.

TRANSPORTATION Bus Discipline: Students are expected to display the same conduct on a bus as they do in a classroom, therefore giving drivers the same respect as teachers or administrators. School buses are considered school property. Therefore, all district discipline policies are in effect. Any discipline infraction that endangers the safety of others, may result in the loss of transportation privileges.

Bus Conduct Rules

1. Obey the bus driver at all times. There are three video cameras on each bus. 2. Be on time to your bus stop. 3. Keep your hands to yourself. No pushing or fooling around. 4. Keep your body inside the bus. Do not throw anything outside the window. 5. No eating, drinking or littering on the bus. 6. Use appropriate and respectful language in a low volume. 7. Written notes are required for any student who wishes to ride a different bus. Notes must be signed by office personnel. 8. Remain seated in your assigned seat at all times. The driver reserves the right to assign seats to students. 9. Students must walk 10 feet in front of the bus and then await signal from the driver to cross in front of the bus. 10. Do not play with emergency windows or door.

UPDATING INFORMATION Please contact the school as soon as possible if you have in your address, phone number, contact information, etc. It is extremely important for us to have accurate information on file at all times.

VOLUNTEERING Jennifer Swayze coordinates volunteers in the building. If you are interested in volunteering at school, please contact her at 589-7120 or [email protected] to let her know in what capacity you are interested in volunteering and your availability.

WEBSITE The Spencer-Van Etten District Website is svecsd.org. There is a lot of valuable information on our district website including the calendar, important dates, phone numbers, websites, parent portal for schooltool and parent portal for safe arrival.

WORKING PAPERS Students who are 14 – 17 years of age are eligible to apply for working papers. A physical within the previous 12 months is required. Applications are available from the guidance office. Parents must fill out Part I – Parental Consent of the application, including social security number and parent/guardian signature. The form is then returned to the guidance office for processing. Please allow five business days for the working card to be completed. The completed card must then be signed in front of a school official.

DISTRICT PHONE NUMBERS

SAFE ARRIVAL ABSENCE CALLER: 1-844-553-3311

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL MAIN OFFICE: 589-7110

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NURSE: 589-7118

MIDDLE SCHOOL MAIN OFFICE: 589-7120

MIDDLE SCHOOL NURSE: 589-7128

MIDDLE SCHOOL KITCHEN: 589-7129

HIGH SCHOOL MAIN OFFICE: 589-7140

HIGH SCHOOL GUIDANCE OFFICE: 589-7144

HIGH SCHOOL NURSE: 589-7148

DISTRICT OFFICE: 589-7100

CSE OFFICE: 589-7111

BUS GARAGE: 589-7160

FOOD SERVICE: 589-7150

DISTRICT FAX NUMBERS

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FAX: 589-3017

MIDDLE SCHOOL FAX: 589-3020

HIGH SCHOOL FAX: 589-3011

NURSE’S OFFICE FAX: (Same for all buildings) 589-3003

DISTRICT OFFICE FAX: 589-3010

CSE OFFICE FAX: 589-3025