The Episcopal Academy

EPISCOPAL ACADEMY MIDDLE SCHOOL

Student Handbook and Planner

2004 - 2005

376 North Latches Lane Merion, PA 19066 610-617-2229 www.ea1785.org TABLE OF CONTENTS

2 THE HISTORY OF OUR SCHOOL 2 MISSION & BELIEFS 3 OBJECTIVES of the ACADEMY 4 THE ACADEMIC PROGRAM 5 - Courses of Study - Grade Reports and Comments - Effort, Achievement - High Honors, Honors and Special Effort - Comments, Advisor-Parent Conference Days, Progress Reports - Academic Expectations and Summer Course Requirements - Advising and Guidance

COMMUNITY BEHAVIOR 8 - Chapel LIBRARY-LEARNING CENTER 10 COUNCILS 11 - Chapel Council - Spirit Council

3 COMMUNITY SERVICE 11

ATHLETICS 12

ATTENDANCE 13 - The School Day - Morning Meeting - Lateness - Absences - Messages - Assignments - Illness

ADDITIONAL ITEMS OF INTEREST 14 - Emergency Drills - Books, Book Bags, Instruments, Sports Equipment and Electronic Devices - Lost and Found - Telephones - Cell Phones - Snow Days and Emergency Closings - In the Middle - Dress Code - Computer Use Policy - Study Hall Guidelines - Cheating - Plagiarism

TRANSPORTATION 22 MIDDLE SCHOOL PRIZES 24 MIDDLE SCHOOL FACULTY 2004-2005 26

4 THE HISTORY OF OUR SCHOOL The Episcopal Academy has a noble tradition behind it. Founded at Old Christ Church in Philadelphia in 1785, under the leadership of the Rt. Reverend William White, first Bishop of Pennsylvania, it listed among its first trustees such famous Americans as Robert Morris, the financier of the Revolution; his partner, Thomas Willing; Francis Hopkinson, signer of the Declaration of Independence; and Edward Shippen, later Chief Justice of Pennsylvania. Originally the Academy opened in a building on the east side of Fourth Street, a few feet south of Market. It was in this early period that Noah Webster taught for a while under Dr. John Andrews, the first Headmaster; and Stephen Decatur, who was later to become famous for his naval exploits against the Barbary pirates, was a member of the student body. Subsequently the school occupied various locations in the city, the most notable being a modern school building erected in 1850 at Juniper and Locust Streets and occupied until 1921. The ancient idea of a sound body as well as a sound mind received little attention in the early schools of America. Yet in this building erected over one hundred years ago the Academy possessed a complete gymnasium and an athletic program, which set it high in the ranks of the schools of that day. In 1921 the school plant was moved to its present quarters in Merion to gain the advantages of a country setting. Here the Academy extended its curriculum and introduced the sports-for-all program which has since provided competition among junior teams. In 1973 the Middle and Upper Schools moved into a modern, air-conditioned school building, which provided faculty and students with unusual opportunities for innovative educational programs. Included in the total development program were two rooms added to the Greville Haslam Science Building and a theater-auditorium in the space occupied by the old gymnasium. This latter facility provided opportunities in drama and music, which had hitherto been severely limited. In the fall of 1974, the school opened a second campus in Devon for kindergarten through the third grade and opened its doors to girls on both the Merion and Devon campuses in kindergarten, first, second and third grade. In each succeeding year, girls were admitted to one higher grade and the school has been fully coeducational since 1984. The Devon campus enrolls students in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade. Episcopal, during its years, has assisted in the training of many hundreds of men and women who have gone forth to play leading roles in the community and in the professions, to achieve places of high responsibility in commerce, industry, and finance, and offices of importance in education, religion, and government. Naturally, in all of these years there have been many alumni who have achieved places of distinction in their professions, in business, and in community and national life. The Academy rolls show that well over a hundred clergy, including seven bishops, have come here. Four

5 presidents of colleges and great numbers of judges, statesmen, financiers, physicians, editors and authors received part of their earlier training at the Academy. MISSION The Episcopal Academy educates qualified, motivated students to grow intellectually, physically, and spiritually, and to share their talents generously. We are a coeducational community of learners and teachers working to achieve excellence through a strong academic program, comprehensive athletics, and vibrant arts. Our school’s Episcopalian heritage with its respect for all faiths forms the basis of our life together.

BELIEFS At The Episcopal Academy, we believe that:

Mind:

 The pursuit of learning is a work for a lifetime.

 Learning emerges from and builds on experience and discovery.

Body:

 A healthy lifestyle, including appropriate education and lifelong physical activity, enhances individual mental and spiritual health.

 Athletic competition and sportsmanship contribute to the mental and spiritual well-being of individuals and communities.

Spirit:

 Everyone has inherent worth as a creation of God.

 Every individual shares responsibility for the community.

 Individual moral integrity and a core of common values are essential to every community.

 Mutual respect among people of varied backgrounds and perspectives leads to positive, beneficial relationships.

6  Individuals thrive in a safe, nurturing environment where they can be comfortable in taking risks and where they can develop their talents.

7 OBJECTIVES OF THE ACADEMY 1. To provide students with a challenging curriculum designed to develop their intellectual powers.

2. To help students develop habits of industry and thoroughness and a desire for knowledge.

3. To offer students the opportunity to learn and play in a diverse school community, so that they may be prepared to be leaders in a society whose different races, cultures, and classes live and work together in harmony.

4. To teach that our American republican form of government based on democratic principles requires from every citizen concern, participation, and on occasion sacrifice.

5. To guide students’ attitudes toward all people so that their actions reflect understanding and respect, and their behavior shows honesty, decency, and a sense of duty.

6. To develop both leadership and cooperation by giving opportunities in all facets of school life for initiative and responsibility, tact and self-control.

7. To encourage the care and development of the body through teaching intelligent health habits and participation in a variety of vigorous physical activities, many of which can be enjoyed throughout life.

8. To nourish students’ powers of appreciation and creativity, so that they may enjoy their cultural heritages and engage in works of worthwhile self-expression.

9. To demonstrate the importance of a belief in God as revealed in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, using as a vehicle the teaching and practices of the Episcopal Church, and to teach students that respect for other religious traditions enhances one’s own faith.

8 THE ACADEMIC PROGRAM

Courses of Study The following list of courses is presented to give a general view of the scholastic program offered in the Middle School. A more detailed curriculum is available from the Head of Middle School in the Middle School Office. Computer and library skills are integrated into the curriculum in each form.

. Grade 6 English, mathematics, social studies, science, modern language (French or Spanish), religion, art, drama, health, athletics, vocal and instrumental music

. Grade 7 English, mathematics, social studies, science, Latin, modern language (French or Spanish), religion, art, drama, health, athletics, vocal and instrumental music

. Grade 8 English, mathematics, social studies, science, Latin, modern language (French or Spanish), religion, art, drama, health, athletics, vocal and instrumental music

Grade Reports and Comments The school year consists of three trimesters with examinations or alternative assessments given in certain major courses of study at the end of the second and third trimesters for A, I, & II Forms. In A, I, & II Forms report cards are sent home at the end of each trimester using the following achievement and effort grade scale:

Effort E = Excellent means that the student is consistently well prepared for class (seldom, if ever, has missing or late homework), substantially involved in class discussions, and cooperative with classmates.

S = Satisfactory means that the student is generally prepared for class (occasionally has missing or late homework), participates in class discussions, and generally works well with classmates.

U = Unsatisfactory means that the student is frequently unprepared for class (frequently has late or missing assignments), detracts from class discussions, and/or has trouble working with peers.

9 Achievement A+ = 97 - 100 A = 93 - 96 A- = 90 - 92 B+ = 87 - 89 B = 83 - 86 B- = 80 - 82 C+ = 77 - 79 C = 73 - 76 C- = 70 - 72 D+ = 67 - 69 D = 63 - 66 D- = 60 - 62 F = below 60

Teachers also use “+’s” and “-’s” on the effort and achievement grades. The second and third trimester report cards will also contain a letter grade for each examination taken. Examinations at the Middle School level count for no more than 20% of the final trimester grade.

High Honors, Honors and Special Effort Academic excellence and concerted effort should be the goals of each student in the Middle School. At the end of each trimester students are recognized on their report cards and in special assemblies for the following accomplishments:

High Honors - grade point average of 3.5 - 4.0; no grade below a B+ and no S-‘s or U‘s in effort

Honors - grade point average of 3.0 - 3.49; no grade below a B- and no S-‘s or U‘s in effort

Special Effort –all S+’s and above in effort

*Trimester Courses - While a trimester course grade of less than a B- may keep a student off of honor roll for that trimester, it will not negatively impact his/her year-end honors eligibility as long as the student has earned at least a C and an S in that course.

Note: grade point averages will only be used to determine academic honors and not class standing.

10 11 Comments, Advisor-Parent Conference Days, Progress Reports At the mid-point of the first two trimesters, written narrative comments are sent home to keep parents apprised of their child’s progress. The comment is descriptive in that it gives a brief overview of the work to date in the course. It is prescriptive in that it suggests strategies for improving or maintaining the student’s performance. In addition to the comments, three advisor-parent conference days are scheduled for the academic year. The first conference day is scheduled for the opening day of school. We think the best way to create a supportive school environment is by getting to know you and your child, so we take a proactive approach by meeting before classes begin. We can learn more about each child and develop a good working relationship with his/her parents. The second conference day, midway through the first trimester, focuses on the goals the students have established for themselves and their efforts to date. During the time spent with the student’s advisor, parents can receive a first hand report of their child’s academic, social, and behavioral progress. The third conference day, at the end of the second trimester, reviews the recent academic progress and considers strategies for ensuring a successful completion of the academic year. Advisors send out comments reviewing their advisees’ school year after they receive the final grades.

Progress Reports are comments sent home on an as needed basis reflecting a teacher’s concern or appreciation.

Academic Expectations and Summer Course Requirements Episcopal is a college preparatory school. Our goal is for students to thrive academically and to feel good about themselves as they take on the many challenges offered. Although C is technically a passing grade at Episcopal, a grade of C or below represents a red flag in the Middle School. C represents work well below the average. Several grades of C or below may jeopardize re-enrollment. While we understand Middle School students are a work in progress, we believe in being proactive when addressing issues regarding learning and motivation. We want to respond to student weaknesses quickly so students can build a solid foundation, which promotes future success. We want to avoid continuing to advance students into an environment in which they are overwhelmed. We expect that all of our students obtain a C+ average or better for their year-end grade in each core academic course. If a student is not meeting the skills and content standards in two or more core academic courses at the mid-point of the second trimester, he/she is in jeopardy of having the re-enrollment contract for the next academic year withheld. Release of the re-enrollment contract will be contingent upon satisfactory improvement in the respective skill and content areas and the accompanying demonstration of a consistent, appropriate work ethic, and desire for success.

12 Summer warnings reports will be sent before spring vacation. The absence of a summer warning report does not necessarily mean that a child will not be required to attend summer school or work with a tutor. Students will be officially notified with their year-end report card if they are required to attend summer school or work with a tutor. Our hope is that summer work will be viewed not as a punitive measure but as an opportunity to establish a strong foundation and to promote success and confidence for the upcoming year. Those students who have received a grade of C or C - in a course for the year will be expected to complete 15 hours of tutoring or attend a summer school course in that subject area. Those students who have received a grade of D+ or below for the year will be expected to attend summer school. In the event a summer school course is not offered, students will be expected to complete 20 hours of tutoring and may need to successfully complete a re-exam in order to remain at The Episcopal Academy. Those students who have received a grade of D+ or below on the final exam may also be expected to complete summer work, which may include tutoring. The number of hours of required summer work will reflect the student’s specific needs. Students who have received a grade of C or below in a trimester course will be expected to complete 5 hours of tutoring with a tutor or attend a summer school course in that subject area.

Advising and Guidance As education is a process that goes far beyond books and study, students and parents frequently raise questions about school routine, sports, social matters, study habits, and issues of adolescence. In the A, I, & II Forms students are assigned individual advisors. Students and advisors meet once per cycle. Advisors provide the opportunity for the students to discuss issues that are appropriate for their particular age. It is hoped that this frequent contact will facilitate communication during those times when adolescent issues can possibly become a hindrance to a student’s academic, social, or behavioral well-being. Additional guidance and support is provided by the Head of Middle School, Assistant Heads of Middle School, Academy Chaplains and “Clearings,” a staff of clinical psychologists who have regular hours at Episcopal.

COMMUNITY BEHAVIOR In order to promote both the common good and individual well-being, as well as foster the basic goals of the school, students are expected to observe certain norms of behavior in order to be promoted to the next grade level. The learning of good manners and appropriate behavior is as important as any other aspect of Middle School life.

13 With this in mind, the advisor/advisee system has been designed to help in the development of each student and be at the heart of our system of conduct. Therefore, when a student demonstrates behavioral problems, the student’s advisor, parents, Head of Middle School and the specific teacher form an essential communication loop. Where minor offenses are involved, the advisor will seek out and discuss the situation with the advisee as soon as possible. When offenses are repetitive and/or more serious in nature, the teacher directly involved issues write-up slips. These slips require the student to obtain signatures from the advisor and parents and are kept on file in the Middle School Office, ensuring that all members of the communication loop are informed. Repeated and/or more serious offenses result in further action taken, such as a Friday detention from 3:30 to 4:00 p.m. or Saturday detention from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., a letter of reprimand, disciplinary probation, in and out of school suspensions, and as a last resort, expulsion. Fighting, bullying (including non-verbal bullying), endangering, or harassing another student, conduct that threatens the safety or well being of any student or employee, racial remarks, sexual remarks, visual or verbal obscenities, possession and/or use of weapons (firearms, pellet and BB guns, knives, etc.) and fireworks, stealing, cheating, plagiarism, destruction of property, lying, inappropriate use of the school’s computer system, cutting class or after school activity, leaving campus during the school day, or other unacceptable acts of behavior can lead to expulsion by themselves. Possession and/or use of illegal drugs, tobacco, or alcoholic beverages on campus or at school related activities can result in immediate expulsion. Ultimately, discipline in the Middle School is the responsibility of the Head of School and the Head of Middle School.

Chapel All students are expected to be present at chapel. Students should be quiet when they enter the chapel and should sit with their homeroom. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in all chapel activities. Although chapel is Christian-oriented, we honor a full spectrum of religious beliefs. It is our hope throughout the year to honor the religious holidays of a variety of faiths. Students are asked to be present, but are not obligated to participate in ceremonies that conflict with their religious traditions.

14 THE ROGER ANNENBERG MEMORIAL LIBRARY-LEARNING CENTER The Episcopal Academy Library System

Mission The mission of the Episcopal Academy Libraries is to ensure that our students, faculty, staff and families are efficient and effective users of ideas and information resources, and value literature and reading for pleasure to gain new perspectives and to stimulate imagination.

Library Operation & Circulation: The library is open from 7:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., Monday-Thursday, 7:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. on Friday. The library faculty is available to help you with your information and research needs anytime during that time. The entire collection is available for student use. Students may borrow books, magazines, video recordings, DVD’s, audio recordings, most reference materials. Books circulate for 2 weeks, reference materials overnight, and other formats for periods ranging from overnight to 1 week. All materials must be checked-out at the circulation desk before being taken from the library. Students are responsible for all materials checked out under their name. Materials are to be returned or renewed in a dependable fashion. Fines are not levied for overdue library materials. However, a student with chronically overdue materials may be placed on restricted access to library materials. Lost, damaged and unreturned materials will be charged to the student's account.

Library Resources: The beginning point for using the Episcopal Academy Libraries is through the library webpage. Beginning at www.ea1785.org, click Mind and choose Library.

The Library page links to:

The Library Catalog lists all holdings of the library: books and audiovisual formats. The catalog is available from any computer on campus and from home;

Online Subscription Resources includes encyclopedias, magazine indexes and full-text access to articles and government documents;

Home access through the webpage is available for many of these resources-- Username: episacadem Password: ea1785

15 Curriculum Links provides websites specifically selected to support library-based research projects. The Library provides students and teachers with a broad range of materials and equipment that make it central to the learning experience. The book collection numbers in excess of 40,000 volumes and is supplemented by a wide variety of audiovisual software and equipment. Our online subscription services allow access to retrospective collections of journals, historical newspapers, and primary source documents in world and American history. As a member of Access Pennsylvania, the Academy is able to borrow from more than 1500 libraries in Pennsylvania at no charge to students. The number of these resources totals more than 4 million items. Items requested will be processed through the Library Office.

COUNCILS

Chapel Council The Middle School Chapel Council consists of elected representatives who assist in the planning and execution of chapel services.

Spirit Council The Spirit Council is made up of students who assist in the planning of special between-season athletic events, pep rallies, and Spirit Day events.

COMMUNITY SERVICE The purpose of the Community Service Program is to provide educationally enriching service opportunities in order to develop a sense of responsibility to the community as a whole. A wide variety of hands-on programs, such as Widener tutoring and visits to Gompers Elementary School and Presbyterian Home for the Aged, help students to realize that we are all one community. It is hoped that each student in the Middle School will complete at least one trimester of service during each school year.

16 ATHLETICS A Form athletics takes place during the school day. I & II Form athletic practices begin at 2:40 pm Monday-Thursday and 2:05 on Friday. Practices end at 3:30 PM Monday - Friday. Students are required to attend athletics unless arrangements have been made with the Middle School Head. Failure to attend athletics is considered cutting and can result in disciplinary action that may include detention, suspension or expulsion.

Doctor’s appointments notwithstanding, students are expected to attend a full day of school in order to participate in extracurricular activities.

The most up-to-date sports calendar can be found on Episcopal’s website. Beginning at www.ea1785.org, click Body and click Athletics.

For last minute changes to the athletics schedule, call the sports hotline after 2 PM. The number is 610-617-2294. Select Option 8.

Sports Offerings Fall Season Girls Boys Cross Country Cross Country Field Hockey Football Soccer Soccer Tennis Water Polo

Winter Season Girls Boys Basketball Basketball Squash Squash Swimming Swimming Winter Track Winter Track Wrestling

Spring Season Girls Boys Lacrosse Baseball Track Lacrosse Softball Tennis Tennis Track

17 ATTENDANCE

The School Day The school day begins promptly at 8:05 a.m. when daily announcements are read and attendance is taken in homerooms, and is over at the conclusion of sports, classes or extra-curriculars at about 3:30 p.m. Students are expected to be picked up promptly at the conclusion of their school activities. Students are not allowed re-entry to the main building.

Morning Meeting Students are expected to gather in the Doolittle Room by 8:05 a.m. on the first school day of every week. They should arrive with whatever they need for their first period classes so they don’t spend time going back to their lockers afterwards. Students will meet with their homeroom in an assigned location so attendance can be taken.

Lateness It is extremely important that our students make every effort to be in their homerooms by 8:05 a.m. Failure to arrive on time in the homeroom constitutes lateness. Students who are late to school must sign the late book in the Middle School Office and obtain a late pass. The late pass must be presented to the teacher of the first class. Parents will be notified of repeated lateness to school. Lateness has a negative impact on that specific student and the rest of the class. Students who are late to subsequent classes may be asked by their teacher to go back to their previous teacher by the end of the day to get a late slip or note. Students do not go to the Middle School Office to get late passes because they are late for a class.

Absences Students are expected to be in attendance on all calendar school days. Because every school day is important to the growth and development of each student, we urge parents not to request student absences except for illness or family emergencies. Classroom presentation and discussion are invaluable to young people, and any time away from class is a loss to the individual and to the class as a whole. Any other planned absences must be approved by the Head of the Middle School in writing prior to the absence. Students are expected to communicate with their teachers, coaches, and advisors in advance to set up a plan for making up missed assignments. The school may withhold academic credit from any student who is absent more than twenty-one times from a yearlong course or ten times from a trimester course. On the day that a student is absent from school or late because of a planned appointment it is expected that a parent or guardian will telephone the office by 9:30 a.m. to explain the reason for the absence or notify the office prior to that day.

18 Students who leave school early for an appointment must sign out in the office. It is the student’s responsibility to inform teachers and coaches if they will be absent due to a planned appointment. Doctor’s appointments notwithstanding, students are expected to attend a full day of school in order to participate in extracurricular activities.

Messages Parents should restrict personal messages to be conveyed through the office to those of a most urgent nature. Messages will be posted on the bulletin board outside the Middle School Office. Students are expected to check the board several times during the day.

Assignments All middle school students are expected to get their assignments by calling one of their classmates. If a student is absent for more than one day, students/parents are encouraged to call the student’s advisor during school hours to coordinate obtaining and completing all assignments. It is the student’s responsibility to reschedule the completion of work with his/her teacher or teachers. Failure to do so will be reflected in the student’s grades. While the school recognizes students’ outside activities, it is our expectation that school requirements come first.

Illness A nurse is on duty every day on the third floor. If a student becomes ill, he or she should go to the Nurse’s Office or, if the nurse is not there, to the Middle School Office. If a student becomes ill and wants to go home, he/she must receive a note from the school nurse before signing out of the Middle School Office. Parents or the person designated on the “Pupil Emergency Card” will be notified if a student becomes ill during the school day. If possible, students who are leaving school early should try to contact teachers and coaches of activities or classes they will miss.

ADDITIONAL ITEMS OF INTEREST

Emergency Drills Everyone should be familiar with the “Emergency Exit” directions posted by the door in each classroom. Students should leave the building in a quick, serious, and orderly manner (single file) and assemble as directed where attendance will be taken. There should be no talking during the emergency drill. Re-enter the building in an orderly manner reporting back to the classroom or area from where you started.

19 Books, Book Bags, Instruments, Sports Equipment, and Electronic Devices 1. No book bags, instruments, or sports equipment are to be in the hallways or stairwells at any time! 2. If you arrive late, sports equipment that does not fit in your locker may be placed in the back of your homeroom until the end of second period, at which time you must take it to the gym. 3. Instruments too large for the lockers may be left in your homeroom. 4. Lockers - Each student is assigned two personal lockers, one in the school building and one in the gymnasium, for storage of books, sports equipment and other items. It is the responsibility of the students to take care of their lockers and to make sure that their lockers are neat, graffiti free and closed at all times. 5. A student may not enter another student’s locker. 6. Use of another’s books or equipment is considered stealing. Example: A student cannot borrow a book from a friend. If a student forgets a book, the classroom teacher may lend the student the book. 7. Use of locks is limited to those obtained through Mr. Hollinger or the bookstore. 8. Students are not to bring tape players, CD players, MP3 players, pagers or other electronic devices to school.

Lost and Found Items that are found should be turned in to the Middle School Office where they will be stored in a designated lost and found area. Students may not remove items from the lost and found for their personal use. It would be considered stealing. Unmarked items that are not claimed within a reasonable period will be given to the Community Service Program for distribution to those in need. We continue to urge students to be responsible about their belongings and appreciate parental support (especially in making sure all clothing is personally labeled so “found” items can be identified and returned).

Telephones Telephones in the various offices are for the members of the faculty and staff only. Pay telephones are accessible for student use in the science building, the Dixon Gymnasium, on the 2nd floor of the Middle School section of the building, and in the front lobby. Phone cards are available for purchase at the school store. Parents wishing to telephone the Middle School on official business should use the following number: 610 - 617 - 2229. Parents should restrict personal messages to be conveyed through the office to those of a most urgent nature.

20 Cell Phones If it is necessary for a student to make a call from a cell phone during the school day, the student must go to the Middle School Office and make the call from there, after requesting permission from the adult on duty in the office. Students should not make cell phone calls from anywhere else on campus. Cell phones may NOT be brought into classrooms.

21 Snow Days and Emergency Closings Snow and other emergency closings will be announced on radio station KYW (1060) generally by 6:30 AM. The Episcopal Snow Emergency number is 337. In addition, snow day information will be posted on Episcopal’s website (http://www.ea1785.org). If the school is not closed but you feel that driving is hazardous in your area, please use your discretion in deciding whether or not to bring your child to school. If weather conditions deteriorate during the day, the school will remain open until the end of the day in order to provide a safe place for students, faculty, and staff. Buses may pick up early and students will be notified when buses arrive. All other students should remain in school until their transportation arrives; they are not to call home to be excused early. You may use your discretion as to whether to pick your child up early. If you intend to do so, check in at the Middle School Office upon arrival so we may locate your child. Parents may not go to the classrooms to remove their child. Students should sign out in the Middle School Office before they leave. Students may not go home with another student unless they have parental permission. The office must try to keep telephone lines available for important calls concerning district transportation and focus on the safe and informed dismissal of each student. In addition, each unit of the school has its own snow/emergency phone chain organized by the EAPA. Each family will receive a copy of the chain and an explanation of how it works.

In the Middle In the Middle is a parent newsletter that is posted every Friday afternoon on the Middle School webpage. Please check it regularly for program updates, activities, etc. To find In the Middle, go to Episcopal’s webpage (www.ea1785.org), click Mind and click Middle to access the middle school section of the website.

22 MIDDLE SCHOOL DRESS CODE 2004 - 2005

BOYS

 Navy blue blazer with the school emblem on the dress pocket.

 A dress shirt fully buttoned (solid colors or striped - no flannels or “Hawaiian” type prints).

 A necktie (An Episcopal necktie is required for certain formal occasions).

 Traditionally tailored khakis or corduroys (blue or khaki color); no grommets, stitching, external pockets, drawstrings, side stripes, fatigues, jeans or jean style pants, spandex, baggy pants, pajama style pants, cargo pants (belts are required for pants with belt loops).

 Dress shoes - no sneakers, sneaker-like varieties, other athletic shoes, boots, clogs, sandals or backless shoes or open toed shoes.

GIRLS

 Navy blue sweater (with or without trim).

 Collared complimentary blouse or turtleneck long enough to be tucked in or of sufficient length to adequately cover the top of the kilt or slacks.

 Flat heeled shoes - no sneakers, sneaker-like varieties, other athletic shoes, boots, clogs, sandals or backless shoes, open toed shoes, platform or high-heeled shoes.

 Make-up, nail polish, jewelry and other decorations should be kept to a minimum.

 Socks and/or leotards in white or navy only.

23 Kilt

 During Daylight Savings Time in the Fall and Following Spring Vacation School Cord Kilt

 After Return to Eastern Standard Time in the Fall to Return from Spring Vacation School Plaid Kilt

Note: When standing, the bottom edge of the kilt should be an appropriate length (girls are encouraged to wear shorts underneath their kilts).

BOYS and GIRLS

 Team jackets, baseball caps, down vests or jackets, dungaree jackets and outside coats are not to be worn in buildings or classes.

 Sweatshirts can only be worn during sports time.

 In particularly cold or inclement weather, boys and girls may wear footwear appropriate for the conditions.

Special exceptions to the dress code, including the wearing of sneakers for medical reasons, must be accompanied by a note from a doctor or a medical trainer. The note must be given to Mr. Charles Hollinger, Assistant Head of the Middle School. Faddish or extreme hairstyles (including unusual colors) are clearly not within the spirit of the dress code. Body art is forbidden.

Computer Use Policy The Episcopal Academy Computer Center maintains a connection to a global network of computers, the Internet, which may be used by any student or faculty member. Through the Internet students and faculty have access to a powerful means of finding, managing, and creating information, including: information and news from research institutions and commercial providers; communication by electronic mail or direct link with people around the world; and software held in public domain or as

24 shareware. Episcopal extends access to this powerful tool for learning and teaching on the condition that members of the community use the privilege responsibly. Any use compatible with the school's philosophy and objectives, and with the procedures and rules of conduct promulgated by Units and other divisions of the School, will be considered responsible. Examples of irresponsible conduct include, but are not limited to the following: allowing an unauthorized user access to the school's network; transmitting (sending or receiving) threatening, harassing, or obscene material through the school's network; tampering with files or other information created by another user; copyright infringement; using the school's Internet connection for any activity that violates local, state, or federal law. The school recognizes that many of our students and their families use the services of Internet providers such as Erol’s, America Online, Compuserve, etc. When irresponsible conduct takes place outside of school, its repercussions invariably find their way into the school community and have the potential to negatively impact student relationships, particularly when passwords have been shared and students go online as “someone else.” The responsible use of information carries with it our implied confidence that it will not be used on any server. In order to protect that confidence, any inappropriate use of the Internet by a student may be grounds for disciplinary action up to and including expulsion whether or not the activity takes place at the school. Concerned parents can obtain information from local authorities, Internet providers who may be able to identify the actual source and time of inappropriate messages, and the School’s Director of Technology may be able to assist. The Director of Computer Services will be responsible for establishing and administering accounts on Episcopal's server. These are not private accounts. Information, e-mail, data stored on or sent by the system are not private and school administrators have the right to view, delete, or alter anything within the school's computer system. The Director, Dean of Students, the Unit Heads, or the Head of School may deny access to anyone who makes inappropriate use of Episcopal's Internet server. Such inappropriate use may also lead to other disciplinary action including notifying the proper authorities.

Study Hall Guidelines Purpose: Study halls are intended to be locations where students and faculty alike can accomplish tasks, which will reduce the amount of time they have to spend following the school day in work or study. For students it is also a time where appointments can be made with other faculty for extra help or to make up work missed due to absence. Study halls also provide students with the opportunity to participate in our successful community service program. The library staff also stands ready to assist students with

25 research and reading selections provided library space and manpower are available. Regardless of the students’ intent, this should be a time that is managed carefully and used efficiently. In no way is it intended to serve as an opportunity for socialization.

Guidelines: 1. Unless previously scheduled for a community service assignment where time is of the essence, all students should report on time to study halls.

2. The expectation is that all students are to remain absolutely quiet, reading or working on an assignment unless given permission to talk from the study hall proctor. 3. Students should make every attempt ahead of time to arrange to see a faculty member for extra help or to make up work.

4. Only five students from any one study hall can be dismissed to work in the library. Upon dismissal from the study hall, they should report directly to a librarian to make sure that library staff is available to support their presence in the library. One person should report back to the study hall proctor that the group has permission to stay. If it is not appropriate for members of the study hall to use the library, all (or anyone) who were (was) dismissed by the proctor should return immediately to the study hall location.

5. Students who want to work in the computer room must have a specific assignment(s) to complete. One student will be chosen to go to the computer room to ask how many students are permitted to work in the computer room for that period. That student will then report back to the study hall proctor. The proctor will decide who is allowed to go to the computer room.

6. It is left to the discretion of the study hall proctor as to whether trips to the school store or to the receptionist to buy lunch cards are permitted. Students who abuse this privilege, as granted by a study hall proctor, can expect to serve a Friday detention.

7. Study hall rooms should be left as they are found. In fact, an appropriate community practice would be to take the last few minutes of the study hall and make sure the room is actually cleaner than when entered.

8. Remember, even when there is no written work required, a good study skills practice is to review the day’s class notes. This helps avoid the “night before the test” cramming procedure.

9. Always have a book to read. Higher standardized test scores, better writing, and

26 improved critical thinking all result from voracious reading.

Cheating If a student cheats the student will receive a zero for the assignment. The teacher will fill out a conduct slip to be recorded by Mr. Hollinger. 1. At the teacher's discretion, the work may be completed again. In such cases, the student will attain no grade other than the zero. 2. Before the student returns to class, he/she must write a letter of explanation and apology to the teacher in whose class the incident occurred. Mr. Hollinger should review the apology letter before the child returns to class. 3. The teacher in whose class the student cheated will try to contact the parents before the end of the day. 4. The student must bring in the apology letter signed by both parents the following school day and hand the letter to the teacher in whose class he/she cheated. If a child cheats again he/she may be suspended. Subsequent cheating incidents will likely result in expulsion.

Plagiarism Plagiarism is cheating. The dictionary defines plagiarism as “copying or imitating the language, ideas, and thoughts of another and passing off the same as one's original work.” By citing sources, you give credit to a person for his or her work. You also provide valuable information for readers who may want to do further research themselves. You must document or identify sources of information that you use in your writing in the following cases: A) any direct quotation B) the summary of an author's ideas C) statistics D) any fact that is not common knowledge

If you imitate the language or thought of someone else, you are paraphrasing - you are restating another's thought in your own language. In such cases you may omit the quotation marks, but you are plagiarizing unless you specify in a footnote the source of the thought. The problem can often be handled within the text of your writing by such phrases as: “I agree with Martin Luther King, Jr.'s idea that ...”, or, “As I learned from Professor Johnson...” Fundamentally, your integrity is at stake. Unless you make specific acknowledgment, you claim the credit for yourself for anything that you write. You may document, or cite, your resources with an endnote, a footnote or within

27 your writing (as in the example above). If you are unclear about how to acknowledge a resource, ask your teacher or librarian for clarification. In general, it is better to say too much about your sources than too little. This set of guidelines was adapted from the “Episcopal Academy Upper School Handbook” and The American Journey: the quest for liberty since 1865 (pages 543 and 579).

28 TRANSPORTATION Students are expected to return home each day by their normal route and means of transportation. Reminder: leaving campus and returning to campus to be transported home is considered an off-campus violation, punishable by suspension. Example: Going to Wendy’s for a snack before taking the bus. In order to promote and encourage safe and reasonable behavior at the various transportation pick-up points in the afternoon, and to assist the adults involved in the supervision of these areas on campus, the following rules have been established for:

The Merion Train Station - The route from school is down Latches Lane, through the Botanical Park on the Merion Road side of the stream and in front of the Post Office. Students are not to use Raynham Road. - At the train station, students are to wait a safe distance behind the yellow line. - Students are not to cross the tracks at any time. - School standards of conduct apply at the train station and on the train.

The Dietrich House Bus Waiting Area - Students are to remain in the area designated by the teacher in charge. - Students are to be properly dressed as defined in the School Dress Code. - The adult supervising has charge over all students at the bus stop. - Students are not to approach the bus until the bus has come to a stop. Rules of Conduct While Riding a Bus: 1. Remain seated at all times while the bus is moving. 2. No throwing of any objects to or at someone inside the bus or out the windows. 3. No inappropriate language. 4. No excessively loud conversations. 5. No harassing anyone. 6. No eating or drinking. 7. Keep hands inside the windows. 8. Be respectful of the driver at all times. 9. Set a good example - you represent yourself, your parents, and our school. 10. The Academy and/or the bus driver reserve the right to suspend your ridership.

The Front Circle (car pick-up) - Students are not to wait in the reception area (main lobby) for car pick-ups. They may wait just inside the first set of doors in

29 inclement weather. - Students are to be properly dressed as defined in the School Dress Code. - Because of the large number of people using the main entrance, there is to be no ball playing, or other distracting activity in front of the building. - Students must remain in concrete area between hedges.

En Route While en route to and from school, each student should bear in mind the importance of safety. The student shares the responsibility for safe arrival to and from school with those who are responsible for transportation.

30 MIDDLE SCHOOL PRIZES

Prizes are awarded during the awards assembly and during closing exercises in June:

The Christ Church Prize for Religion - awarded for the best term paper in religion in II Form.

The Passon's Sport Cup - presented to that girl who to the highest degree displays all-around athletic prowess, sportsmanship and character.

The Thomas W. Supplee Cup - presented to that boy who to the highest degree displays all-around athletic prowess, sportsmanship and character.

The Hugh H. McClelland Memorial Prize – presented to a student who during the past year has made the greatest contribution through music ability, effort and loyalty to the choral music program.

The Connelly Foundation Instrumental Music Award - presented to that student in A, I or II Form who has made the greatest all-around contribution to the instrumental music program.

The Middle School Visual Arts Award - awarded to that student who has consistently demonstrated artistic excellence, service and leadership in the visual arts programs of the Middle School.

The Robert A. D'Avella Arts Prize - presented to that student who has made the greatest contribution to the arts in Middle School.

The Elizabeth Dougherty Cronin Drama Award - presented to that student who has been the most supportive and positive participant in the drama program.

The David A. Baldwin Creative Writing Prize - determined by a contest for students in A through II Forms.

The Tony Hansel Prize - awarded to that student who to the highest degree radiates an atmosphere of cheerfulness and is consistently amiable and responsive to the teachers and classmates.

The Robert L. German Public Speaking Prize - determined by a contest for students in A-II Forms.

31 The Jefferson Shiel Prize - awarded for all-around development.

32 The Jarvis Meirs I Form Science Prize - for outstanding achievement and excellence in I Form Science.

The Jarvis Meirs II Form Science Prize - for outstanding achievement and excellence in II Form Science.

The Eli Kirk Price, III F.R.G.S. Annual Award - for excellence in A Form Social Studies.

The Eli Kirk Price, III F.R.G.S. Annual Award - for excellence in I Form History.

The II Form History Prize is awarded for excellence in II Form History.

The University of Pennsylvania Prizes - established in honor of the University by two graduates of the Academy, three in number, and awarded for the highest standing during the year among students in II Form in mathematics, English and Spanish.

The Class of 1966 Prize - awarded to that student in II Form who has the highest standing during the year in Latin.

The Class of 1971 Prize - awarded for excellence in II Form in French.

The Form Prizes – awarded to those students in A & I Forms who have consistently shown outstanding achievement and effort in classroom work; The Derek A. Whitaker A Form Prize for Highest Scholarship is an endowed prize.

II Form Scholarship Prize – awarded to that student who has consistently shown outstanding achievement and effort in classroom work.

The Forrest L. Gager Memorial Prize - awarded by the Alumni to that student who, in the opinion of the faculty, has contributed most in service to the Academy.

The Frank M. McAlpin Award - voted by the II Form to that boy and girl displaying to the greatest degree the qualities of courage, honor, service, leadership and scholarship.

33 EPISCOPAL ACADEMY MIDDLE SCHOOL FACULTY & STAFF 2004-2005

Mr. Mark Devey – Head of Middle School [email protected] Mr. Charles Hollinger – Assistant Head of Middle School, History [email protected] Ms. Laura Russell – Assistant Head of Middle School, [email protected]

MS History Dept. Chair Mrs. Lisa Fox – Administrative Assistant [email protected]

Mr. Henry J. Albrycht, Jr. – Woodworking [email protected] Mrs. Janet Albrycht – Music [email protected] Ms. Mary Allen – Latin [email protected] Ms. Gabrielle Bernard – Drama, Theater Department Chair [email protected] Mr. Joseph Buches – Music, Music Department Chair [email protected] Mr. Andrew Bugosh – Instrumental Music [email protected] Mrs. Sue Cannon – English and History [email protected] Ms. Carolyn Cohan – Spanish [email protected] Ms. Heather Cosgriff – Learning Specialist [email protected] Ms. Michelle Domondon – Latin [email protected] Mr. Christopher Giles – English, II Form Coordinator [email protected] Mr. Thomas Greenwood – English, MS English Department Chair [email protected] Mrs. Roberta Howlin – History and Science [email protected] Ms. Susan Jo – Math [email protected] Ms. Maude Kent – Math, MS Math Department Chair [email protected] Mr. Thomas D. Kent, Jr. – Latin [email protected] Ms. Kerry Kettering –Spanish, Spirit Council Advisor [email protected] Ms. Andrea Killian – History, I Form Coordinator [email protected] Mr. Michael Klaassen – Latin, Classics Department Chair [email protected] Mrs. Naomi Knecht – Art, Yearbook Coordinator, Honors Art [email protected] Mr. Richard Knox –History, Co-Director of Middle School Athletics [email protected] Mrs. Mary Van Dyke Konopka – Latin [email protected] Ms. Linda Lew – Computer Technology [email protected] Mr. Mark Luff – English and History [email protected] Mr. William MacArdle – Latin [email protected] Dr. Andrew McMeekin – Clearings [email protected] Mr. Michael Murphy – English, A Form Coordinator, [email protected] Dir. Of Summer Programs Ms. Nicole Osmers – English [email protected] Mrs. Elizabeth Pago-Crump – French and Spanish, [email protected] MS Modern Language Dept. Chair Ms. Kimberly Piersall – Health, Co-Director of Middle School Athletics [email protected]

34 Mr. John W. Powell, III –Math [email protected] Mrs. Kristen Powell – Science, Science Department Chair [email protected] Mrs. Celian Putnam – French [email protected] Mr. Kaveh Saidi – Instrumental Music [email protected] Mr. Roland Sarko – Spanish [email protected] Mr. Matthew Schrag – Science [email protected] Mr. Edwin H. Shafer, Jr. – Science [email protected] Ms. Lauren Smith – Science [email protected] Mrs. Linda Smith –Co-Director of Libraries [email protected] Mr. John Spofford – Math [email protected] The Rev. James R. Squire – Chaplain, Religion Department Chair [email protected] Mrs. Susan Swanson – Community Service Coordinator [email protected] Mr. Robert Trumbull – Director of Community Service [email protected] Ms. Linn Vaughters – Spanish [email protected] Mr. George Wattles – History and Math [email protected] Mrs. Nokomis Wood – Director of Community Life [email protected] The Rev. Albert Zug – Religion, Middle School Chaplain, [email protected] Chapel Council Advisor