Belle Chasse Middle School

Mr. Joseph Williamson, Principal 13476 Hwy. 23 (504) 595-6640 Fax (504) 656-2399

2014-2015 Belle Chasse Middle School STUDENT HANDBOOK 2014-2015

Vision: At Belle Chasse Middle School, WE BELIEVE that through relationship, relevance and rigor: All students can learn; All students learn in different ways; All students will be provided with a variety of instructional strategies based on his or her unique intellectual, physical, social and emotional needs; School teams, parents and community share in the responsibility for providing a supportive and conducive environment for learning; and All students will have the opportunities to develop a positive self-image, self-respect and self-control to become productive citizens in society.

Mission Statement: The mission of Belle Chasse Middle School is to nurture self-discipline, responsibility, and academic excellence among all students in a safe environment.

13476 Highway 23 Belle Chasse, LA 70037 Phone (504) 595-6640 Fax (504) 656-2399

Principal: Joseph Williamson Assistant Principals: Jay Bouche Kayla Clark Curriculum Coordinator: Gretchen Palmer Counselor: Catherine Stackel

School Colors: Red, White, and Gray School Mascot: The Bulldog (Spike) Web Site: www.bcms.ppsb.org email address: [email protected]

**Students may only be checked out between periods. Please make a note of the class times**

No Student may be checked out of school once 7th period has begun.

DAILY SCHEDULE 5th Grade 6th Grade 7th Grade 8th Grade

HR – 7:12 - 7:16 HR – 7:12 - 7:16 HR – 7:12 - 7:16 HR – 7:12 - 7:16 1ST – 7:18 - 8:20 1ST – 7:18 - 8:20 1ST – 7:18 - 8:20 1ST – 7:18 - 8:20 2ND – 8:22 - 9:12 2ND – 8:22 - 9:12 2ND – 8:22 - 9:12 2ND – 8:22 - 9:12 3RD – 9:14 - 10:04 3RD – 9:14 - 10:04 3RD – 9:14 - 10:04 3RD – 9:14 - 10:04 4TH – 10:06 - 10:56 4TH – 10:06 - 10:56 4TH – 10:06 - 10:56 4TH – 10:06 - 10:56 Enrich – 10:58 - 11:23 5TH – 10:58 - 11:48 Lunch – 10:58 – 11:23 5TH – 10:58 - 11:48 Lunch– 11:23 – 11:48 LUNCH – 11:50 – 12:15 Enrich- 11:23 – 11:48 Enrich - 11:50 – 12:15 5TH – 11:50 - 12:40 Enrich – 12:15 – 12:40 5TH – 11:50 - 12:40 LUNCH – 12:15 – 12:40 6TH– 12:42 - 1:32 6TH– 12:42 - 1:32 7TH – 6TH– 12:42 - 1:32 6TH– 12:42 - 1:32 7TH – 1:34 - 2:26 1:34 - 2:26 7TH – 1:34 - 2:26 7TH – 1:34 - 2:26 ACTIVITY SCHEDULE

th th th 5th Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8 Grade

HR – 7:12 - 7:16 HR – 7:12 - 7:16 HR – 7:12 - 7:16 HR – 7:12 - 7:16 1ST – 7:18 - 8:14 1ST – 7:18 - 8:14 1ST – 7:18 - 8:14 1ST – 7:18 - 8:14 2ND – 8:16 - 9:00 2ND – 8:16 - 9:00 2ND – 8:16- 9:00 2ND – 8:16 - 9:00 3RD – 9:02 – 9:46 3RD – 9:02 – 9:46 3RD – 9:02 – 9:46 3RD – 9:02 – 9:46 4TH – 9:48 - 10:32 4TH – 9:48-10:32 4TH – 9:48 - 10:32 4TH – 9:48-10:32 Enrich – 10:32 – 10:59 5TH– 10:34-11:24 Lunch – 10:32 – 10:59 5TH– 10:34-11:24 Lunch– 10:59 – 11:24 Enrich – 11:24-11:49 LUNCH - 10:59 – 11:24 6TH – 11:24-12:16 5TH – 11:26 - 12:16 Lunch – 11:49-12:16 5TH – 11:26 - 12:16 Lunch – 12:18-12:45 6TH– 12:18 - 1:02 6TH – 12:18-1:02 6TH– 12:18 - 1:02 Enrich – 12:47-1:02 7TH – 1:04 – 1:48 7TH – 1:04-1:48 7TH – 1:04 – 1:48 7TH – 1:04-1:48 Activity—1:48-2:26 Activity—1:48-2:26 Activity—1:48-2:26 Activity—1:48-2:26

Half Day Schedule

5Th Grade 6th Grade 7th Grade 8th Grade HR 7:12-7:16 HR 7:12-7:16 HR 7:12-7:16 HR 7:12-7:16 1st 7:18-8:00 1st 7:18-8:00 1st 7:18-8:00 1st 7:18-8:00 2nd 8:02-8:32 2nd 8:02-8:32 2nd 8:02-8:32 2nd 8:02-8:32 3rd 8:34-9:04 3rd 8:34-9:04 3rd 8:34-9:04 3rd 8:34-9:04 4th 9:06-9:36 4th 9:06-9:36 4th 9:06-9:36 4th 9:06-9:36 5th 9:38-10:08 5th 9:38-10:08 5th 9:38-10:08 5th 9:38-10:08 Lunch 10:10-10:40 6th 10:10-10:40 6th 10:10-10:40 6th 10:10-10:40 6th 10:42-11:12 7th 10:42-11:05 Lunch 10:42-11:12 7th 10:42-11:20 7th 11:14-11:44 Lunch 11:05-11:30 7th 11:14-11:44 Lunch 11:20-11:45 HR 11:30-11:45

I. General Information

Welcome to Students The administration and faculty welcomes each student to the 2014-2015 school year and hopes that this year will be positive and productive. Your success will be largely determined by how you apply yourself in each of your classes and how well you learn to get along with your classmates and teachers. The basic rules of hard work and study, and of respect for others and for the property of others, will lead to great results.

Expectations of Each Student 1. Be Prepared 2. Act Responsibly 3. Respect Everyone 4. Keep Safe

School Philosophy Belle Chasse Middle School seeks to educate all students through a competent staff and a comprehensive and flexible curriculum. This curriculum is designed to develop well-rounded students who are adequately prepared to enter high school as highly functioning individuals. Belle Chasse Middle School recognizes the uniqueness of the developmental needs of the early adolescent and attempts to tailor both the curriculum and counseling services to address these needs.

Special Note to Parents Learning and discipline originate in the home. The parent is the first teacher of the child and forms the basis for later learning in the school setting. Parents should foster good behavior habits in their children and teach them to have a positive attitude toward school. Toward these purposes, it is recommended that parents: 1. Recognize that the teacher takes the place of the parent while the child is in school. 2. Teach the child respect for law, authority, and the rights of others. 3. Arrange for prompt and regular school attendance. 4. Work with the school in correcting behavioral problems and making your child more accountable for his or her conduct. 5. Show an active interest in your child's schoolwork and activities. 6. Provide "quiet time" and the proper setting for your child to study on a daily basis. 7. Communicate with your child's teachers on a regular basis. Often potential problems are prevented through this communication.

Lost and Found Please report any lost or missing items promptly to a teacher or the office. In most cases the item can be located if reported promptly. Do not bring expensive personal items to school. These become targets for theft. The wearing of expensive jewelry, jackets, and shoes is strongly discouraged. Our staff would rather spend time on education than detective work. Mark all personal items including book bags, binders, notebook, clothing, etc.

The school maintains a lost and found box in the ISS room and the gym. Always check this area when searching for lost items. Many items reported stolen are often misplaced. The lost and found items will be donated to charity at the end of each month.

Student Fees The following student fees are charged: PE Uniforms - $25.00 (Fifth grade does not dress out) PE/School Locker fee - $5.00

Workbook fees will be determined by grade level. Some classes may require special fees for special projects. Cafeteria fees are payable on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis. Payment is made in the cafeteria. Parents who feel their child may qualify for free or reduced lunch may contact the cafeteria manager for the appropriate application form. Students may bring their own lunch, which is to be eaten in the cafeteria. (595-6648) Lunch - $1.50 per day Reduced Lunch - $ .40

Bulletin 1196 3.19-02 Meal Payments Those students not eligible for free meals must pay for their meals at the prices established for full price and reduced students. Schools will not allow students to charge lunches.

School Store The office sells PE uniforms. Student workbooks are to be purchased from the office at the beginning of the year or upon entry to Belle Chasse Middle School. Please check with your child daily or weekly to make sure he/she has the necessary supplies. Supply fees are also paid to the front office.

Student Debts Any student debt should be paid promptly. Failure to clear debts will result in the following school action: 1. Grades will not be posted or reported. 2. Transfer of records will be denied. 3. Parent portal will be deactivated.

Bulletins and Announcements Any announcement, whether given over the intercom or posted in the school, must have prior approval from the school administration.

Fundraisers Private fundraisers or fundraisers for other schools are not permitted. Any school fundraiser must first be submitted by the organization sponsor in writing to the principal for approval. Only organization sponsors may place orders for items to be sold.

Parties No private parties are allowed. Flowers and/or balloons are not to be sent to a student. All school parties must be pre-approved by the school administration. Fast food may not be brought to students during school.

Telephone Use The telephones in the office are for business use only. Students should communicate all personal messages to their parents before leaving for school and should only use the school telephone in unusual circumstances. All calls must be approved by the office personnel. Students will not be permitted to call home when they have forgotten something. There will be an activity bus available to students participating in athletic or extracurricular activities.

Visitor Policy and Checkout Policy Parents are encouraged to visit the school on a regular basis to communicate with teachers and staff regarding their child or to participate in school activities. Plaquemines Parish School Board policy requires that, prior to a school visit, all parents or other visitors must sign-in with the office and approval sought to visit with a teacher or to conduct such other business as is necessary. 1. A visitor pass will be issued if approval is given for the parent or visitor to meet the teacher at this time. This pass is to be returned when the parent is through with the visit. 2. For parent-teacher conferences, appointments are ordinarily made with teachers at 6:45 am. Call Mr. Williamson at 595-6640 for an appointment. 3. Students who check out during the school day will only be released to a parent or legal guardian. Parents should communicate to the school, in writing, any unusual arrangements or restrictions (i.e., change in parental custody) regarding their child. 4. Parents will not be allowed to attend classes with students. 5. Students will only be released from school at the end of a class. Classes will not be interrupted for students checking out of school. 6. No student may be checked out once the final period of the day has begun (1:34). Any parent wishing to pick up their child at the end of the school day will have to wait in the rider line. 7. Students from other schools are not permitted to visit the campus unless they are representing their school in an official capacity. Visitors without a legitimate purpose will be treated as trespassers and the police may be contacted.

II. Curriculum Requirements

Course of Study

Grade 5 Grade 6 English English Reading Reading Mathematics Mathematics Science General Science History World Cultures Physical Education Physical Education GT, iLEAP remediation, READ 180 Art, Band, GT, Computer, iLEAP remediation, READ 180 Music, Enrichment

Grade 7 Grade 8 English English Reading Reading Mathematics Mathematics Life Science Earth Science American History Louisiana History Physical Education Physical Education Band, GT, Keyboarding READ 180, Band, GT, Keyboarding, LEAP remediation, Journalism, iLEAP remediation, Enrichment READ 180, Enrichment

General Grading System 1. The following grading system is approved by the Plaquemines Parish School Board: 2. Letter Grade Numerical Range Quality Points A...... 93-100...... 4 B...... 85-92...... 3 C...... 75-84...... 2 D...... 67-74...... 1 F...... 67 or Below...... …...... 0 I...Incomplete becomes an F if not handled within five days unless there are extenuating circumstances.

2. Grades are determined at nine-week intervals, with the final grade being an average of the preceding four 9- week grades. Students also receive an interim progress report at the mid-point of each 9-week grading period. The interim progress report does not become part of the student's official grade, but is used as notification of the student’s grade. 3. Examinations are given every 9-weeks. Each examination is to be at least 90 minutes in length. Students will be dismissed at 11:45 daily beginning with the second day of examinations unless the parish deems that it is necessary to make up instructional minutes during this time.. The following formula is used in averaging grades: Daily classwork (includes homework, regular class assignments, periodic tests) represents 3/4 of the 9-week grade; the 9-week examination counts as 1/4 of the 9-week grade. When a grade average is above .5 or above, the student will receive the higher grade. a. A student shall have the right to make up all assignments and tests for excused absences and unexcused absences. Upon a student’s return to school, he or she must submit letters for approved extenuating circumstances, such as:  original signed doctor excuses for student or student’s child  death in the family verified by death notice  letter from the court system  letters regarding religious holidays  letters from parents/guardians and others  visitation with parent who is a member of the military and has been called to duty or on leave. (Not to exceed 5 days per year) Documentation shall be presented within five school days to the appropriate school administrator to be classified as an excused day. Students will be required to make up assignments and tests. 4. If the student has more than 5 days of unexcused absences, his guardians must have a hearing with the child welfare attendance officer to determine if a passing grade will be received. 5. A student may not take a quarterly exam before the regularly scheduled exam date(s), unless there are extenuating circumstances, which must be approved by the principal, Director of Elementary Education, and Superintendent. Suspensions and vacations are NEVER considered extenuating circumstances. A student shall have the right to make up all assignments and tests, excluding nine weeks/final exam for excused absences and unexcused absences.

Attendance is mandated during nine weeks/final exam days. Exams can only be made up with a verified doctor’s excuse.

NOTE: If students are checked out of school during the day, the missed classes will be considered unexcused absences unless documentation is presented within five school days. All doctor's excuses must be the original document with the doctor's/therapist's signature on them. Habitual situations will be evaluated thoroughly and CWA will be contacted immediately.

7. To pass a course, a student must also meet the following criteria: A. Make a passing grade in that course during the last 9-weeks. An F results in automatic failure in the course. B. Accumulate 4 quality points for the year. C. Make at least 2 quality points in the course during the second semester (D average). D. Meet attendance requirements-A student must be in attendance 167 days.

Textbooks and Library Books Students are issued textbooks at no charge. The student is required to maintain the textbooks in good condition. The student is responsible for all damaged or missing textbooks and library books. A textbook check will be done before each exam each nine weeks. A student will not be allowed to take his/her exam without possessing a textbook issued or paying for a lost or damaged book. III. Extracurricular Programs and Services

Organizations and Clubs Belle Chasse Middle School encourages students to participate in any of the various student organizations and clubs. These organizations include Student Council, Beta Club, Library Club, 4-H, Newspaper, Yearbook, and Band. Student athletes may also participate in cheerleading, dance team, football, volleyball, basketball, softball, baseball, soccer, or track. Not all sports are open to fifth grade students.

Assemblies Belle Chasse Middle School provides assemblies during the year to recognize outstanding students, to honor specific events, or to present guest speakers. Parents and friends may be invited to attend these assemblies. Not all school events will be open to parents. Pep rallies are never open to parents due to capacity constraints.

Athletics Students who are involved in disciplinary matters may be ruled ineligible until those matters have been resolved. A student who is suspended from school, ISS or OSS, is not eligible to participate in any athletic function. The student shall not attend any scheduled game or event on the same day as the suspension. To be eligible for the first semester of the school year, a student shall have earned at least six (6) units from the previous year, which shall be listed on the student’s transcript and shall have earned a “C” average as determined by the Local Education Authority when considering all “graded” subjects To be eligible for the second semester of the school year, a student shall pass at least 6 subjects from the first semester.

Counseling Services Students or their parents who are seeking special assistance with academic, attendance, personal, or interpersonal problems may contact the school counselor. Among the services provided are: 1. Student registrations and transfers 2. Individual counseling according to the area of need 3. Group counseling with students who have a common need 4. Teacher-Parent Conferences may be scheduled through the counselor. 5. Individual student contracts will be drawn up between the student, the parents and teacher, as appropriate, as a method of attempting to improve behavior or grades. 6. Referral to other agencies or coordination of the services of the school with the services of these agencies will be made if circumstances indicate that this is in the best interest of the student.

Services for Students with Handicaps or Disabilities Any parent seeking services for a student with a handicap or disability who is not currently enrolled in Special Education or who is not receiving any special type of school service should contact the school counselor for more information about qualifying for these programs.

Field Trips Teachers and students may plan field trips as an individual class activity, grade level and/or organization enrichment project. Field trips are a supplement to the curriculum and should be planned and attended with the objective of culminating a unit of study. However, field trips are a privilege afforded those students who have demonstrated good conduct and respect for authority. For those students habitually receiving Behavior Reports, suspensions and/or reprimands, a parent may be required to accompany the student in order for the student to attend a field trip. In some instances, the principal and/or the assistant principal may exclude a student from attending a field trip based on student behavior and attitude. Students, teachers and chaperones must follow school dress code rules when attending a field trip. Students may only wear official school shirts (red polo with Belle Chasse Middle School on chest) while attending a field trip. The principal is the only person who can make an exception to this rule. All chaperones are required to participate in at chaperone in-service before they will be allowed to accompany the students.

IV. Discipline Policies and Procedures

Appropriate and Inappropriate Student Behavior Students are expected to conduct themselves in a responsible manner and to respect the rights and property of others. All such rules involving appropriate and inappropriate behavior apply equally to the classroom and hallways, the school campus, to the school bus and bus stop, and to all school functions, whether based at Belle Chasse Middle School or elsewhere. Examples of Inappropriate Behaviors include but are not limited to: 1. Bullying 2. Disruptions of class or school. 3. Damage or destruction of school property. 4. Damage or destruction to the private property of others. 5. Disrespectful behavior toward a teacher, staff member, or fellow student. 6. Physical abuse of another student at any time. 7. Possession or use of a weapon or dangerous instrument. 8. Possession or use of any narcotic, stimulant drug, or alcoholic beverage or misuse of OTC drugs. 9. Possession or use of tobacco, lighters, matches, electronic cigarettes, hookahs, vapors, pipes, smokeless tobacco, etc. 10. Unauthorized publication, petition, or announcement 11. Violation of locker regulation. Every student is required to have a hall locker, to keep the locker locked while not in use, to maintain the locker for school purposes only, and not to use or tamper with other students' locks or lockers. 12. Violation of attendance policies including truancy from school, tardiness to class, being out of class without a pass, or being in an off-limits area. 13 Engaging in fighting (Any student who uses or attempts to use physical force against another student during an altercation will be considered as engaging in fighting). 14. Leaving school grounds without permission or willfully leaving school or a school function with an unauthorized party. 15. Dishonesty in any form, including lying against another person, cheating on a test or assignment, plagiarism, or forgery. 16. Extortion, harassment of a sexual or non-sexual nature, or intimidation of any student, school employee, or other individual attending a school activity. 17. Violation of fire regulation or failure to comply with any fire, tornado, or safety drill. 18. Inappropriate public behavior or display includes: A. Use of any obscene gesture or word B. Any inappropriate display of affection to include kissing, fondling, etc. 19. Theft 20. Profiteering—No student may engage in private sales of goods or services on school property or at school functions. 21. Violation of dress code. (See uniform policy) 22. Food is only permitted in the cafeteria and for approved school activities. No gum is permitted on campus at any time. 23. Aiding, abetting, or encouraging others to violate school rules.

Conduct in the Classroom and Halls Students are expected to comply with such classroom rules as the teacher has determined to make the classroom more efficient and orderly. These rules will be posted and explained to the students by each teacher during the first week of school. Students are expected to move promptly between classes and should travel on the right side of the hall. Running, horseplay, and loud talking are not permitted. Lockers should be used only at approved times. Book bags should not be left in the hallway or in doorways. Should a student need to use the bathroom or perform any other duty that might result in his/her being tardy to class, the student should first gain permission from his/her teacher. No student is to be in the hallway or bathroom during class without a pass. Students are expected to follow approved routes in moving between classes, to travel only in approved zones, and to only use the bathroom facilities within that zone.

Conduct on the Bus Students should conduct themselves in such a manner to ensure their own safety and the safety of others. They are expected to comply with the directives of the bus driver and to avoid any behavior that might be a distraction to the bus driver or injurious to others. These rules apply to daily transportation, field trips, and all extra curricular and non- curricular trips. 1. Students are to sit where the bus driver directs them to sit. Only the driver may "save" or reserve seats. 2. Students may converse with others in a normal tone of voice. Students should not shout, scream, or curse at others. 3. 5th grade students are to sit in the front of the bus. 4. Students should enter the bus promptly and sit facing the front. 5. Students may board and exit the bus at their regular bus stop. Any temporary change must be requested in writing by the parent and approved by the office. Any permanent change must be approved by the Director of Transportation. 6. Students may not eat or drink on the bus. Radios, stereos, and any type of noisemakers are not allowed. 7. Students may not mar, deface, or vandalize seats or any other part of the bus. The student must pay the cost of any repair caused by such vandalism before he/she is allowed to ride the bus again. 8. All objects are to be kept out of the aisles. No student should sit with his/her legs in the aisle. 9. No part of the body should be positioned outside the windows of the bus. 10. No object may be thrown out of the window of the bus. No students may make obscene gestures or statements to others outside the bus or to anyone traveling on the highway. 11. All other school rules are in force while a student is on the bus or at the bus stop. 12. The following items are prohibited on the bus: tobacco, matches, cigarette lighters, obscene materials, electronic cigarettes, pipes, hookahs, vapors, etc. 13. The following items are not allowed on the bus: alcohol, drugs, pets (cats, dogs, etc.), glass objects (except eyeglasses), weapons (including knives), and objects too large to be held in the lap or placed under the seat. 14. Be on time - - the bus will not wait. *Cooperate with the driver: Your safety depends on it! Be courteous, be safety-conscious, protect your riding privilege, and enjoy your ride.

Conduct on the Playground Playground time is primarily a time to relax and socialize. Physical activity is permitted within safe guidelines. Students are expected to stay within the defined playground area, to remain visible to a duty teacher, and to respond promptly and courteously to any request by the duty teacher. 1. Rough play is discouraged and students may be suspended from the playground if this continues. "Games" or other physical assaults on students will result in automatic suspension from school. 2. Students are to stay within the area designated by their teacher. On rainy days, modifications will be made to the playground area. On these days, students using the canopy or asphalt areas should not disturb classes that are in session. 3. No rocks, shells, sticks, or similar objects should be thrown. 4. Students may not enter the building during recess, except with permission from a teacher. 5. Students are not to climb in the trees or damage shrubbery during recess. 6. Students are to report promptly to class at the end of recess. There should be no shoving, loud talking, or other unacceptable behavior during their return. 7. These rules may be altered by the administrators or teachers as necessary.

Conduct in the Cafeteria All students are required to eat their lunch in the cafeteria regardless of whether they are a cafeteria customer or whether they brought their lunch from home. Students are allowed to sit in any area of the cafeteria except the table designated for teachers. 1. Deliveries from a restaurant are not permitted. 2. Glass containers or carbonated beverages are not permitted with lunch. 3. No food is to be taken out of the cafeteria, and all bags and packaging should be thrown in the trash bins. 4. No food should be thrown or scattered, and the eating area should be cleaned up after use. No food is to be shared between plates. When students are finished eating, they should discard their plates. 5. Reasonable conversation is allowed. Shouting or loud noises are not permitted. 6. Students should walk (not run) to the cafeteria. Breaking in line or shoving will not be permitted. 7. Screw top bottles, of any kind, are not allowed on campus.

School Sanctions The type of sanction for inappropriate behavior will be determined by the severity of the misbehavior, the repeat nature of the offender, as well as the real or potential harm caused by a student to the learning, welfare, and safety of others. Sanctions and methods used to attempt to remediate the inappropriate behavior will include, as appropriate, counseling and reprimands, punishwork, service work, morning detention, time-out, suspension from the bus, removal from the bus, suspension from school, expulsion from school, or alternative placement. For those students who qualify, alternative placement will be offered in one of two forms: Homebound instruction or placement in an alternative school setting.

Detention The Assistant Principals hold detention at 6:30 each morning. Teachers, at their own discretion, may hold lunch detentions. A detention may be rescheduled on the day it is to be served. If the student or parent does not reschedule a detention, it will automatically be rescheduled for the next school day. If the student fails to meet the rescheduled detention, the violation becomes a suspension. Students are expected to arrange for their own transportation to or from detention.

Suspension Students may be suspended in accordance with the Plaquemines Parish School System Disciplinary Action Handbook. Any student suspended shall receive half of credit earned for school work missed while suspended. Upon return to school, students will be given a specified amount of time to make up the work equal to the number of days the pupil was suspended. It is up to the student to get the work from the teachers. If a student makes up work after the prescribed time limit, points will be deducted from the credits that would be earned at the discretion of the principal and teachers. Any student who is suspended from school or has been placed in the Plaquemines Parish Learning Center may not participate in any school activities including athletic events, school dances, and all 8 th grade end of year activities. Procedure for requiring a drug test for a student suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or other drugs 1. When there is reasonable suspicion that a student may be under the influence of alcohol or other drugs (determined by observable behavior or a report of observable behavior) the principal or designee may require that the student undergo an immediate drug screen to verify if the student is under the influence. 2. Parents/guardians should be notified immediately and requested to escort the student to the Plaquemines Center for Addictive Disorders at 3708 Main Street in Belle Chasse. 3. If parents cannot be reached or are unable to escort the student, the student will remain suspended until parents/guardians have taken the student for a drug screen to the Plaquemines Center for Addictive Disorders. 4. The school administrator or designee should call the Plaquemines Center for Addictive disorders at 393- 5624 to alert them to expect the student’s required drug screen. 5. A student cannot be tested by anyone without parental consent, unless there is sufficient evidence that the student has broken the law, at which point the Sheriff’s Office would take the student into custody.

Closed Campus Policy No student is to be on campus before 7:00 a.m. or after the busses leave in the afternoon, unless attending an approved school activity. No student is to be in the building before homeroom class or after the final bell unless performing an approved school activity. Any student who has to remain after school for a school activity should make advance provisions with their parents to be picked up promptly at the end of the activity. No bikes, motor bikes, or student cars are allowed on campus.

Due Process and Appeals A student has the right to present his own evidence and to hear the evidence of others during the investigation of any rules violation. Should the student or parent representing the student desire to appeal any decision made as a result of the findings in a disciplinary matter, the student or parent should follow the appropriate chain-of-command: 1. The principal 2. A hearing officer appointed by the Superintendent (Suspensions and Expulsions only) 3. The Superintendent (Suspensions and Expulsions only) 4. The School Board (Expulsions only)

All Special Education students shall be afforded the disciplinary provisions stipulated by the Louisiana Department of Education.

Grievance Procedure Should any student or parent seek to file a grievance against any employee of the school, the student or parent should follow the chain-of-command identified above under "Due Process".

V. STUDENT DRESS CODE (PLAQUEMINES PARISH SCHOOL BOARD)

The Plaquemines Parish School board authorizes each school to develop its own individual dress code and publish it in their student handbook. The board reserves the right to require standards of appropriate dress that are conducive to safety, orderly decorum, and that reflect positively on the school system. The school board has adopted a dress code policy that shall be universal throughout the parish. These policies will be enforced from bus stop to school and from school to bus stop and/or at any time students are under school jurisdiction. The board’s dress code rules are as follows: a. Any clothing, adornment, accessory, or jewelry that displays or symbolizes obscenity, vulgarity, and/or indecency, and/or that advocates violence, drugs, alcohol, and/or tobacco is prohibited. b. Moderate hair styles only are permitted. Boys’ hair may not extend lower than the top of a dress shirt collar. Hair cannot be worn to fall below the brow line. c. Any style of hair which creates a distraction or a safety hazard shall be considered inappropriate. Fluorescent-colored hair (yellow, orange, purple, blue, green, pink, red or any other distracting color) is prohibited. d. Eyebrows shaved to create a decorative design or distraction are prohibited. e. Boys must be clean shaven. Beards or goatees are not permitted. Mustaches are permitted, provided they are neatly trimmed and do not extend beyond the corners of the mouth. Side burns that are excessive are not allowed. f. Boys are not permitted to wear dangling or hoop earrings; however, boys will be allowed to wear one stud per ear. Additionally, girls will be allowed to wear only one earring per ear. (Girls’ hoops not to exceed [1] inch). Oversized stud earrings are not permitted. For boys and girls, earrings are to be worn in the ear lobes only. Guages and other devices that are worn in the ear lobe to stretch the lobe or make the pierced ear hole bigger are prohibited. g. Any additional visible/noticeable body piercing is prohibited. Body rings and/or studs must be removed. h. All visible tattoos must be covered. i. Jewelry or clothing that can be hazardous to students or any other persons is prohibited. Pocket chains and (dog-type) collar chains will not be allowed. Oversized belt buckles or any other oversized jewelry or adornments are prohibited. j. Fingernails in excess of ½ inch (curling under) will not be allowed. k. Student must not deface their uniform. l. No OVER-SIZED OR UNDERSIZED CLOTHING is permitted. Clothing must be properly sized. m. Undershirts must be white or a school color. All students must wear appropriate undergarments. n. All shirts must be tucked in completely around at the waist of the uniform bottom. o. Uniform shorts or skirts must be worn at the knee for grades 5-12. Mini-skirts are prohibited. “Peanut” shorts with 3” zippers are not allowed. p. Uniform pants are to have the traditional khaki pant leg. No bell bottoms, wide leg, or other non- traditional leg shapes are allowed. Slit or frayed pant legs are not allowed. Rolling pant legs up is prohibited. Hip huggers and “peanut” pants with 3” zippers are not allowed. q. Pants, shorts and/or other uniform bottoms with multiple pockets such as cargo pockets, cell-phone pockets, and/or other non-traditional pockets are not allowed. r. All pants, shorts and other uniform bottoms are to be worn at the waist. A BELT must be worn at the waist with all uniform bottoms. s. Only a standard black, brown, or khaki-colored belt may be worn. (This is a belt that fits in the belt loops of the standard khaki uniform pants.) Belts with large holes in them and/or hanging ornaments on them are prohibited. *A school may adopt a solid-colored belt of one of the school colors that has been approved by the school administration. t. Oversized belt buckles are prohibited. Belt buckles with any type of writing, pictures, or symbols on them are not allowed. u. Sweatshirts and lightweight jackets must comply with the individual school’s approved uniform code as stipulated in the school handbook. v. It will be mandatory for students to wear a school uniform jacket beginning with the 2012-2013 school year. Each school will adopt school uniform jackets and give advance notice to parents. w. Socks/Hosiery and clean shoes must be worn daily. Socks/stockings (no leggings) can be white or school color can be worn. Shoes and tennis shoes that are closed in must be worn. Shoes such as flip-flops, slides, clogs, moccasins, slippers, Crocs, or shoes with no ankle straps are prohibited. All string shoes must be properly laced and tied. Velcro flaps must be properly strapped. Socks/Hosiery must be visible. x. Caps, hats, sweat bands, hoods, scarves, kerchiefs, bandanas, and other head coverings are prohibited. Girls may wear headbands, barrettes, or ribbons to hold back the hair, but excessive adornment is prohibited. y. Hoods as part of an approved school uniform are not allowed to be worn pulled up on the head while inside a building. z. Any garment, hairstyle, adornment, jewelry, or appearance considered inappropriate by the administration will be prohibited.

SPECIAL DRESS DAYS: Dress plans for any special day that students would not wear school uniforms needs to be submitted in writing for the superintendent’s approval prior to finalizing such plans.

If a school allows special dress days such as “Spirit Days,” the following rules would apply: aa. Leggings, stirrup pants and Capri pants are not allowed. bb. Shorts and skirts must be worn at the knee for grades 5-12. cc. Trench coats, dusters, and/or other long coats are allowed. dd. Clothing or adornment which is hazardous to the safety of the students is unacceptable. Sweat bands and bandanas are prohibited. ee. Pajama Day and cross-dressing are not allowed. ff. Clothing, tattoos and any other items worn or displayed by students must not contain or symbolize obscenity, vulgarity, and/or indecency; and must not advocate or advertise violence and/or alcohol, tobacco, and/or drug use.  Tear away pants, fringed pants, or torn pants are prohibited.  Clothing that exposes the back, chest or midriff shall not be worn. See-through (sheer) garments and/or clothing with skin or undergarments showing shall not be permitted.  Overalls with a short sleeveless shirt or any style sleeveless shirt will not be allowed.  No sweat suits, wind suits or jogging suits are to be worn. gg. Any garment, hairstyle, adornment, jewelry, or appearance considered inappropriate by the administration will be prohibited.

BOOK BAGS – BACK PACKS – SHOULDER BAGS - PURSES

The school bags accepted for use on school property and/or school buses are to be made of clear plastic or see- through mesh. Bags with extension handles and/or wheels are prohibited.

Shoulder bags, knap-sacks, and back packs must be made of see-through mesh or clear plastic.

Book bags are not allowed on campus during the fourth nine weeks exams.

Girls: Purses must be modest in size. Purse size must not exceed the size of a three ring binder. Over-sized purses, travel bags, portfolios, brief cases, etc. are not allowed.

SCREW TOP BOTTLES

Screw top bottles, of any kind, are not allowed on campus. Examples include, but are not limited to, sports drinks, water bottles, and thermoses. Pouch or box drinks are the only type of outside drinks allowed.

School Uniform Policy 2014-2015 ( Belle Chasse Middle School )

School uniforms are mandatory for all students.

Male students: Red shirt with collar and B.C.M.S logo, khaki uniform trousers or shorts and closed in shoes or tennis shoes. Socks/Hosiery and clean shoes must be worn daily. Shoes or tennis shoes that are closed-in may be worn. Knee socks are not allowed. Shoes such as flip-flops, slides, clogs, moccasins, slippers, Crocs, or shoes with no ankle straps are prohibited. All string shoes must be properly laced and tied. Velcro flaps must be properly strapped. Only red, white, or gray socks may be worn.

Female students: Red shirt with collar and BCMS logo and khaki uniform trousers, shorts, or skirts; skirts must reach the middle of the back of the knee. Mini skirts will not be allowed. Capri pants are not allowed. Socks/Hosiery and clean shoes must be worn daily. Knee socks are not allowed. Shoes or tennis shoes that are closed-in must be worn. Shoes such as flip-flops, slides, clogs, moccasins, slippers, Crocs, or shoes with no ankle straps are prohibited. All string shoes must be properly laced and tied. Velcro flaps must be properly strapped. Only red, white, or gray socks may be worn.

All Students: No other type of shirt should be worn over the standard uniform shirt. Blouses and shirts must be tucked into shorts, skirts, and trousers at all times. Feathers and tinsel may not be worn in the hair. Skorts are not allowed. Capri pants are not allowed. Pants, shorts, and/or other uniform bottoms with multiple pockets such as cargo pockets, cell phone pockets, and/or other non-traditional pockets are not allowed. Khaki shorts and trousers must have belt loops and a red, black, brown, or khaki belt must be worn with shorts and trousers. Colored belts, belts with large holes in them, or hanging ornaments on them are prohibited. Belt buckles with any type of writing, pictures or symbols on them are not allowed. Pants and shorts must be worn above the hips at the waist and must be knee length. “Peanut” shorts, low-rise shorts or pants, and shorts or pants with a 3-inch zipper may not be worn. Pants and Shorts must not be too big nor too small. Shoes designed without laces are acceptable, however, shoes that are a lace up or velcro variety must be tied or fastened properly so that they do not present a safety hazard. All shoes must have backs. Sandals are not allowed. Only an approved sweatshirt or red jacket with the B.C.M.S logo will be allowed as part of the school uniform. A school shirt must be worn under the school sweatshirt at all times. The gray fleece pullover with B.C.M.S. logo is also acceptable. All other jackets, sweaters, sweatshirts, or overshirts will not be permitted in school. Physical Education uniforms are not a part of the school uniform. They may only be worn during P.E. classes. Students may wear red, white, or gray tee shirts only under their school shirts.

VI. Cell Phones and Other Electronic Telecommunication Devices

The Plaquemines Parish School Board requires standards of decorum that foster learning in an orderly manner and recognizes the necessity for reasonable control of the students under its jurisdiction. The board expressly prohibits the possession, wearing, use, operation, or activation of any electronic telecommunication device by any student (this includes sending and receiving text messages, and taking, sending, and/or receiving pictures/graphics), unless authorized by the school principal/designee. Electronic telecommunication devices may include any facsimile system, radio paging service, mobile telephone service, intercom, or electro-mechanical paging system. The board also prohibits the possession, wearing, use, operation, or activation of any digital music player, such as an iPod. These prohibitions are for any elementary or secondary school building, or on the grounds thereof or in any school bus. A violation of these provisions shall be grounds for disciplinary action, including, but not limited to, suspension or referral of the pupil to the juvenile court of the parish.

1 st offense for possession of electronic devices—Detention. Hold device for 24 hrs./Parent pick up. 2 nd offense for possession of electronic devices—1 day ISS. Hold device for 1 week/Parent pick up. 3 rd offense for possession of electronic devices—1 day OSS. Hold device for 1 week/Parent pick up.

VII. Hall Passes

A student may not leave the classroom without his or her agenda book and permission from the teacher. A record will be maintained of students leaving the classroom. Any student leaving class without permission or in any area of the building without authorization will be subject to disciplinary action.

VIII. Student's Arrival at School

Students are not to arrive at school before 7:00 a.m. There are no adults available to supervise students before this time. Students are subject to disciplinary action if time constraints are not followed. All students are to go to the cafeteria or the gym upon arrival. No student should be in the main building before the 7:12 bell. Any student who arrives after school has begun must be signed in by a parent or guardian in the front office.

ACADEMIC HONESTY POLICY

All students in the Plaquemines Parish School System are encouraged to work to their fullest potential and strive for excellence in their pursuit of knowledge. To that aim, students are expected to demonstrate academic honesty in the completion of all assignments and assessments; this requires that the work be the original of the student and appropriate credit be given to all sources used. All members of the school community will accept responsibility for creating a positive school climate that supports and encourages the spirit of academic honesty.  The STUDENT will adhere to the spirit and letter of the policy in the completion of all tests, quizzes, exams, projects, reports, homework, and in-class assignments.  The PARENT or guardian will review and sign the academic honesty policy and encourage the student to practice integrity throughout his or her academic career.  The TEACHER will make the students aware of the principles and consequences of the policy, refer to them on an ongoing basis, provide safeguards that will discourage cheating, make clear to the students that the policy will be strictly enforced, and take disciplinary action in every instance of dishonesty according to the process specified below.  The ADMINISTRATOR will promote the spirit of academic honesty across the campus, publicize the policy through the student/teacher handbooks and other means, take action when the code is violated, and enforce the consequences.

Acts of academic dishonesty include, but are not limited to, the following: 1. Cheating on Tests – any giving or receiving of external help (oral, written, or electronic) on an examination, test, or quiz, without expressed permission of the teacher. 2. Fabrication – inventing or falsifying data, a citation, or other authority in an academic assignment. 3. Forgery – the signing of another person’s name on any school document. 4. Unauthorized Collaboration – a student and another person working together on an assignment when not expressly directed to do so by the teacher. Examples include copying another student’s work or allowing one’s own work to be copied, doing an assignment for another student, or giving/receiving information from tests previously given. 5. Plagiarism – representing another person’s words, ideas, or work as one’s own. Instances include (a.) copying word-for-word or paraphrasing ideas from an article or book without documenting the source (b.) cutting and pasting from the Internet without giving credit, (c.) purchasing or borrowing an entire research paper and passing it off as one’s own, and (d.) allowing another student to copy or use one’s original writing, including homework. 6. Theft or Alteration of Materials – any stealing, concealment, or alteration of student or teacher instructional equipment or materials, including on-line data.

CONSEQUENCES - Violations of the academic honesty will result in the following: 1. Zero on the entire assignment 2. Behavior referral to Assistant Principal/Disciplinarian 3. Parental contact depending on severity of the offense o Phone call and/or o Conference scheduled with Assistant Principal and teacher 4. One to three days detention 5. In-school or out-of-school suspension for second/further offenses or severe first offense. 6. Removal from campus leadership roles for the remainder of the school year Record of incident becoming a permanent part of the student’s disciplinary record

IX. Definition of Bullying

The Plaquemines Parish School Board is committed to maintaining a safe, orderly, civil and positive learning environment so that no student feels bullied, threatened, or harassed while in school or participating in school-related activities. Students and their parents/guardians shall be notified that the school, school bus, and all other school environments are to be safe and secure for all. Therefore, all statements or actions of bullying, hazing, terrorizing, or similar behavior such as threatening or harassment made on campus, at school-sponsored activities or events, on school buses, at school bus stops, and on the way to and from school shall not be tolerated. Even if made in a joking manner, these statements or actions of bullying, hazing, terrorizing or similar behavior towards other students, school personnel, or school property shall be unacceptable. All students, teachers, and other school employees shall take responsible measures within the scope of their individual authority to prevent violations of this policy Bullying means a pattern of any one or more of the following: 1. Gestures, including but not limited to obscene gestures and making faces. 2. Written, electronic, or verbal communications, including but not limited to calling names, threatening harm, taunting, malicious teasing, or spreading untrue rumors. 3. Electronic communication includes but is not limited to a communication or image transmitted by email, instant message, text message, blog, or social networking website through the use of a telephone, mobile phone, pager, computer, or other electronic device. 4. Physical acts, including but not limited to hitting, kicking, pushing, tripping, choking, damaging personal property, or unauthorized use of personal property. 5. Repeatedly and purposefully shunning or excluding from activities. Where the pattern of behavior as provided in paragraph 2 is exhibited toward a student, more than once, by another student or group of students and occurs, or is received by, a student while on school property, at a school-sponsored or school-related function or activity, in any school bus or van, at any designated school bus stop, in any other school or private vehicle used to transport students to and from schools, or any school-sponsored activity or event, the school is obligated to act in accordance with state law and Plaquemines Parish School Board Policy. The pattern of behavior as provided in paragraph 2 must have the effect of physically harming a student, placing the student in reasonable fear of physical harm, damaging a student's property, placing the student in reasonable fear of damage to their property, or must be sufficiently severe, persistent, and pervasive enough to either create an intimidating or threatening educational environment, have the effect of substantially interfering with a student's performance in school, or have the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.