MISSION STATEMENT Through Well-Defined Academic, Vocational, Guidance, and Co-Curricular Activities Programs, the Middle School

MISSION STATEMENT Through well-defined academic, vocational, guidance, and co-curricular activities programs, the middle school will provide students with a variety of experiences which will allow them to make appropriate decisions in their educational activities and personal relationships. The programs will be responsive to the developmental needs of the students. They will be designed to help students understand themselves as unique individuals and to develop to their fullest potential.

TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome to our Staff ...... Page 2 School Office ...... Page 3 Attendance ...... Page 3 Awards-Student ...... Page 4 Bussing ...... Page 5 Parent Pick Up or Drop Off ...... Page 6 School Committees ...... Page 6 PTO Information ...... Page 6 Dances-Student Mixers ...... Page 7 Forms-Required ...... Page 7 Health & Medication Needs ...... Page 7 Meals ...... Page 8 Online Meal Payments...... Page 8 Student iPad Technology ...... Page 9 School Photos ...... Page 9 Volunteering ...... Page 9 Programs/Academic ...... Page 9 Programs/Academic Support...... Page 11 Programs/Student Support...... Page 12 Homework Assistance ...... Page 12 Art Gallery ...... Page 13 Student Council ...... Page 13 Programs/After School Co-Curricular ...... Page 13 Random Acts of Kindness-Family Assistance ...... Page 14 Lincoln Food Pantry ...... Page 14 Report Cards ...... Page 14 Grading Policy ...... Page 14 Responsibility Skills Rubric ...... Page 15 Rules-School ...... Page 16 Schedule-First Day Information ...... Page 18 Schedule-School Day Hours ...... Page 19 Student Schedules-Lockers ...... Page 19 Class Fees ...... Page 19 School Website/Parent Skyward Access ...... Page 19 Parent Email Addresses ...... Page 19 School Performance Report ...... Page 19 School Calendar ...... Page 20 School Day Cycle ...... Page 21 Student Supply List ...... Page 22

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WELCOME TO OUR STAFF Parents are encouraged to contact their child’s teachers directly through email or by calling the Lincoln office phone at 789-7780. Administration/Office Melissa Murray Principal 608-789-6600 [email protected] Eric Check Dean of Students 608-789-6601 [email protected] Pupil Services Rick Blasing Guidance Counselor (N-Z) 608-789-6627 [email protected] Tanya Vaughn Guidance Counselor (A-M) 608-789-6661 [email protected] Sarah Horton School Psychologist 608-789-6639 [email protected] Ledi Loeffler Principal Secretary 608-789-6602 [email protected] Sandi Hakomaki Attendance Secretary 608-789-6603 [email protected] Betsy Klingelhofer Health Assistant 608-789-6605 [email protected] Shelley Johnson District Nurse 608-789-8427 [email protected] Dempsey Miller African American Liaison 608-789-6620 [email protected] Naohoua (Tony) Yang Hmong Liaison 608-789-5682 [email protected] 6th Grade Teaching Staff Doug Dannhoff 6th Grade Team 608-789-6641 [email protected] Brenda Geier 6th Grade Team 608-789-6634 [email protected] Dawn Hubbard 6th Grade Team 608-789-6640 [email protected] Rachel Kutzke 6th Grade Team 608-789-6653 [email protected] Kim Novak 6th Grade Team 608-789-6631 [email protected] 7th Grade Teaching Staff Scott Bagniefski 7th Grade Medical Partnership 608-789-6624 [email protected] Brooke Taylor 7th Grade Medical Partnership 608-789-6660 [email protected] Tim Sprain 7th Grade Community Connections 608-789-6658 [email protected] Paula Johnson 7th Grade Community Connections 608-789-6642 [email protected] 8th Grade Teaching Staff Mandi Allert 8th Grade Team 608-789-7780 [email protected] Terri Johnson 8th Grade Team 608-789-6643 [email protected] Brian Olson 8th Grade Team 608-789-6652 [email protected] Kim Stoflet 8th Grade Team 608-789-6659 [email protected] Carol O’Mara 8th Grade Team 608-789-6651 [email protected] Courtney Vail 8th Grade Team 608-789-7780 [email protected] Charter School Staff Josh Wolcott SOTA II 608-789-7780 [email protected] Nine Dodge Coulee Montessori 608-789-6656 [email protected] TBD SOTA II/Coulee Montessori 608-789-7780 Specialized Staff Ruth Baardseth Literacy Specialist 608-789-6623 [email protected] Jason Bahr Physical Education 608-789-6625 [email protected] Nicole Binkis Family/Consumer Education 608-789-6626 [email protected] Sarah Buening Speech/Language Specialist 608-789-6629 [email protected] Phyllis Check LD Teacher Assistant 608-789-7780 [email protected] TBD Business Education 608-789-7780 Leah Wyland Spanish 608-789-6663 [email protected] Scott Grade Technology Education 608-789-6635 [email protected] Jennifer Gulsvig Choir/General Music 608-789-6636 [email protected] Lynnae Haerle-Burns Art 608-789-6637 [email protected] Tyler Hamby Physical Education 608-789-7780 [email protected] Jason Harden Band 608-789-6638 [email protected] Jordan Joling LD Teacher 608-789-6644 [email protected] Pheng Lo ELL 608-789-6628 [email protected] Jodi Mahlum Physical Education/Health 608-789-3322 [email protected] Ruth Anne Marco ELL Teacher Assistant 608-789-7780 [email protected] Randy Mastin Orchestra 608-789-6646 [email protected] Jenne Miles LD Teacher 608-789-6649 [email protected] Rita Murphy German 608-789-6650 [email protected] Bethany Nugent Art 608-789-5067 [email protected] John Pedace LD Teacher 608-789-6653 [email protected] Mary Sue Pintz LD-ED Teacher 608-789-6654 [email protected] Mark Pomplun Band 608-789-6655 [email protected] Melissa Sprain Physical Education/Health 608-789-6657 [email protected] Karla Wakeen General Music 608-789-5075 [email protected] Linda Watson LMC Director-HPL 608-789-6662 [email protected]

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School Resource Officer Phil Martin School Resource Officer 608-789-6604 [email protected] Kitchen Staff Jerrilynn Donley Cook Manager 608-789-6621 [email protected] Kinsey Gibbs Kitchen Staff Shelly Hampe Kitchen Staff Lisa Hammond Kitchen Staff Custodial Staff Bill Stegen Building Engineer 608-789-6608 [email protected] Dale Swenson Night Engineer [email protected] Jesse Butterfield Custodian Carolyn Larson Custodian

OFFICE

SCHOOL OFFICE HOURS 7:00am-3:30pm Phone: 789-7780

GUIDANCE COUNSELORS Guidance counselors are available at school to discuss individual needs regarding students. Counselors at Lincoln are Tanya Vaughn and Rick Blasing.

NON-CUSTODIAL PARENTS Non-custodial parents may request copies of report cards and mailings by contacting the school office at 789-7780.

CONCERNS Occasionally a parent or a student will have a concern about curriculum, instruction, school building rules or policies, or a staff member. The procedure for dealing with concerns and complaints is to deal with the person directly responsible first. If the matter is not resolved at the first level, then the concern should be brought to the Principal. Every effort is made to resolve conflicts at the building level. If Principal intervention does not solve the problem, then the parent or concerned party may contact the appropriate curriculum supervisor or an associate superintendent at the Hogan Administrative Center.

ATTENDANCE The School District of La Crosse recognizes that students need to be well prepared if they are going to be successful, productive adults. Regular school attendance is the first step toward achieving this.

School Day: 7:35am-2:45pm (students should be in classrooms by 7:35am) Absences: If your student is ill and cannot attend school, please call 789-7780 to notify the school before 8:00 a.m. Appointments: If your student has an appointment during school hours, please either: • Send a note with your student to give to the office before school or call the school the morning of your student’s appointment. • Students must check into the office before leaving and when returning to school from appointments. Pre-Planned Absence Forms: If a student is to be absent due to travel or a planned family absence, a parent or guardian must complete a Pre-Planned absence form (found on the Lincoln website or obtained from the office) in advance. Students may then request assignments from their teachers prior to being gone. Tardiness: When reporting to school late, students are to report to the office. The classroom teacher will handle tardiness between classes. Chronic tardiness may result in detention, possible suspension, and/or truancy ticket. Change of Address or Withdrawal: It is important that the school be notified immediately upon change of address, phone number, and/or parent-guardian status. Please contact the school office at 608-789-7780 as soon as possible with this information. A parent must also notify the office in advance if they intend to withdraw their child. The student who withdraws from school must go to the office prior to the last day of attendance so that necessary steps for withdrawal can take place.

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Please review the points below from the recently updated and approved Attendance Policy for the School District of La Crosse: 1. Attendance at the middle school level will be taken every period. 2. A parent may excuse a student for not more than 10 days in a school year if the parent notifies the school in writing before the absence. 3. After 10 days of excused absences, verification of absence (phone call or written) will not be automatically excused. It is the sole responsibility of the building administrator to determine whether absences are excused or unexcused. 4. Students who are absent because of illness for five consecutive days must provide a doctor’s note verifying the length of absence. At 10 days of accumulated absences per year, a building administrator will require a doctor’s note for all subsequent absences for the absence to be excused. If a note is not received, the absence will be unexcused. 5. Tardiness is defined as coming late to class. Students missing more than half, (20 minutes), of any class period will be marked unexcused absent for the entire period. Habitual tardiness will be considered truancy and tickets may be issued. 6. An unexcused absence, as determined by the building administrator, for part or all of one or more days will be considered truancy and the La Crosse Police Department School Resource Officer may issue a truancy ticket. Note: A copy of the complete policy is available upon request.

If students are absent two or more consecutive days, parents may contact the Lincoln office at 789-7780 by 8:30a.m. to request homework. The homework assignments will be available for pickup in the office between 3:00p.m.-3:30p.m. that day.

AWARDS-STUDENT

P.A.W.S. (POSITIVE ACHIEVEMENT WITHIN SCHOOL) PAWS is a student reinforcement program. Paws recognizes students who receive all A’s & B’s on report cards. PAWS also developed the program BUGS (Bringing Up Grades) for students who did not receive all A’s & B’s, but significantly brought up grades from the previous quarter (no D’s or F’s and improvement in at least two grades). PAWS recognizes students who have perfect attendance quarterly (no absences or tardies) and birthdays, too. Assemblies for recognizing students are held at the end of the first three quarters of the school year.

Mission Statement The mission of the Lincoln P.A.W.S. program is to acknowledge the educational achievements and outstanding contributions of the students through a process of reinforcement, recognition and reward. Program Goals to increase student attendance to improve overall academic performance to increase a positive school environment to make it “cool” to get good grades and attend school to recognize students in a positive way

P.A.W.S. has worked hard to increase student awareness and reward for academic performance. Activities have included pep rallies, student reward coupon books, academic achievement recognition, and student reward gifts. This program is also an opportunity for local businesses to recognize students. If you or your business would like to donate items or money toward student rewards, please contact Tanya Vaughn at 789-7780 or via email at [email protected]

STUDENT OF THE MONTH Each month a sixth, seventh, and eighth grade student is selected by their teachers as the Student of the Month. These students are recognized for demonstrating leadership qualities, showing compassion for others, displaying good work ethics, having good manners, being respectful, following school rules and being involved in activities outside of the school day. The students selected are recognized during their lunch period with parent guests, in our display case, on the Lincoln website, as well as being included in the La Crosse Tribune A+ Achievers section. For additional information please contact Dean of Students Eric Check at 789-7780 or via email at [email protected]

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BUSSING

FIRST STUDENT BUSSING: 608-781-3880

Bus routes are posted on the district website at www.lacrosseschools.org by clicking on “Parents & Community” and “Bus Routes”. If you have any questions regarding bussing or need help with a bus behavior issue, parents are encouraged to contact First Student Bussing at 781-3880. If a problem is not resolved to your satisfaction, please contact Eric Check, Dean of Students. As in the classroom, student discipline on the school bus is an important matter. A single lapse in the driver’s concentration caused by students misbehaving could result in a serious accident. Please remember that the driver is in charge of the bus, just as a teacher is in charge of the classroom. Bus Rules & Regulations are listed below. Students are not allowed to ride the bus home with a friend. Parents are expected to make separate transportation arrangements. Bussing for Charter School Students (SOTA II and Coulee Montessori): (1) Northside students – Students will walk or parents transport their children to Logan High where Bus #48 will transport students to Lincoln. Students will board Bus #48 to return to Logan High at Lincoln at the end of the school day. Specific bus times and information will be posted on the district website in late August. (2) Southside students – Students will walk or parents transport their children to Longfellow Middle School where Bus #64 will transport students to Lincoln. Students living in the vicinity of Highway 33 will ride bus #53 to and from Lincoln. Specific bus times and information will be posted on the district website in late August. Loading Procedures: (1) Be on time at the designated school bus stop – keep the bus on schedule. (2) Stay off the road at all times while waiting for the bus. Bus riders should conduct themselves in a safe manner while waiting. (3) Bus riders should not move toward the bus at the school loading zone until the buses have been brought to a complete stop. While on the Bus: (1) Keep hands and head inside the bus at all times after entering and until leaving the bus. (2) Assist in keeping the bus safe and sanitary at all times. (3) Remember that loud talking and laughing or unnecessary confusion diverts the driver’s attention and may result in a serious accident. (4) Treat bus equipment as you would valuable furniture in your own house. Damage to seats, etc, must be paid by the offender. (5) Bus riders should never tamper with the bus or any of its equipment. (6) Keep books, backpacks, packages, coats and all other objects out of the aisles. (7) Do not throw anything out of the bus windows. (8) Bus riders are not permitted to leave their seats while the bus is in motion. (9) Absolutely no smoking. (10) The use or possession of alcohol or other drugs on school buses is prohibited. Any student suspected of being under the influence or in possession of drugs, chemicals, or illegal substances will be reported by the bus driver to the appropriate school officials. (11) Bus riders are expected to be courteous to fellow students and the bus driver. (12) There shall be absolute quiet when approaching a railroad crossing stop. (13) In case of a road emergency, children remain on the bus unless given other instructions. After Leaving the Bus (City Riders) (1) When the students are dropped off in the afternoon, they should always step onto the boulevard or sidewalk immediately after exiting the bus. If they have to cross the street they should wait until the bus leaves the area and then proceed to cross only after checking left and right for oncoming traffic. (2) The driver will not discharge riders at other places than the regular bus stops unless by proper authorization from school officials. Bus riders are required to stay on their assigned bus until being discharged at the school they attend. After Leaving the Bus (Rural Riders) (1) Cross the road, when necessary, after getting off the bus (at least ten feet in front of the bus) but only after looking to be sure that no traffic is approaching from either direction. The driver’s signal will tell you when to cross.

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(2) Be alert to the danger signal from the driver. (3) The driver will not discharge riders at other places than the regular bus stops unless by proper authorization from school officials. Bus riders are required to stay on their assigned bus until being discharged at the school they attend. Obeying Bus Rider Rules (1) When a student disobeys the rules and regulations, the bus driver will file a “Misconduct Report” with the associate principal. The parents will then be notified. (2) If the initial offense is extremely serious it could result in immediate suspension from riding the bus. (3) Ordinarily the first offense will result in a warning and a second offense may mean a denial of riding privileges for a period to be determined by the associate principal. (4) Revocation of riding privileges will occur only after an understanding exists between parent, child and school authorities. Pay Bus Student Passes Students having pay bus passes are reminded that they must have their bus passes affixed to the outside of their backpacks at all times. In the event of a lost pass, duplicate bus passes can be obtained from First Student Bus Service. Students unable to produce a bus pass will not be allowed to ride the bus home that day. If you have any questions regarding bussing or eligibility, please contact First Student Bussing at 781-3880.

PARENT PICK UP OR DROP OFF

Due to bus pick up and drop off on Ferry Street, parents are asked to pick up and drop off their student on either 9th Street or Division Street. Please coordinate with your student on the location selected. For student appointments during the school day, parents may use 9th Street for drop off and pick up. For athletic events, it is recommended that parents park close to Ferry Street (as the gymnasium doors are on that side of the building).

NOTE: For the safety of our students, please do not drop students off on the East side of 9th Street causing them to cross through traffic. Also do not “double park” to drop off students.

Students are expected to arrive at school at 7:25 a.m. Classes begin at 7:35 a.m. Students are expected to leave school at 2:45 p.m. They should go directly home or to another parent/guardian approved location. Exceptions include participation in scheduled, supervised activities that may include co-curricular events, detention, after- school programs, or Homework Assistance. Students meeting with coaches or advisors will have instructions as to where they are to wait or meet after school.

COMMITTEES

PARENT ROUNDTABLE Parent Roundtable is a meeting open to all Lincoln parents. It is an opportunity to share joys, concerns, and information with Principal Melissa Murray. Frequently Principal Murray will arrange for presentations and speakers on topics of interest suggested by the parents or staff. All parents are invited to attend. (It may be noted that the Lincoln Parent Roundtable meetings are on the second Friday of each month from 9:30am-10:30am and precede Lincoln PTO meetings. Meeting Dates: September 12, October 10, November 14, December 12, January 9, February 13, March 13, April 10, May 8 from 9:30am-10:30am in Room 217.

PTO The Lincoln PTO always needs your support. Becoming a member is a great way to get involved with the Lincoln school community. For this organization to succeed, we will need your financial support. The PTO is instrumental in raising funds for a variety of building needs. The goal of the PTO this year is to continue to support Lincoln classrooms and co-curricular needs.

The annual PTO membership is $10. You may join the PTO at the Open House on August 20 (6th grade) or August 28 (7th & 8th grade) or by sending an envelope marked “PTO” to the Lincoln office along with your tax deductible donation of $10. Be sure to include your name and phone number on the envelope. Membership checks should

Student-Parent Handbook Page 6 be made out to the Lincoln PTO. Any monetary donations are appreciated and will be used to support Lincoln classrooms, clubs, organizations, and/or activities. If you have any questions please contact PTO President Tammy Hayden at 788-8057. (It may be noted that the Lincoln PTO meetings follow all Parent Roundtable meetings from 10:30am-11:30am). Meeting Dates: September 12, October 10, November 14, December 12, January 9, February 13, March 13, April 10, May 8 from 10:30am-11:30am in Room 217.

DANCES

STUDENT MIXERS (DANCES) Our general philosophy regarding mixers is that this is an opportunity for all of our students to interact with others students. We do not encourage dating or pairing off for these events. We do, however, expect students to exhibit appropriate social behavior and guide students toward that goal. It is important to have appropriate school dress for these occasions as well. Students who have serious school discipline issues may not be allowed to attend mixers. Admission Cost: $3.00 Concessions: Available at varying prices Mixer Dates: Friday, October 10 from 7:00pm-9:00pm Friday, December 5 from 7:00pm-9:00pm Friday, January 23 from 7:00pm-9:00pm Friday, March 6 from 7:00pm-9:00pm Friday, May 1 from 7:00pm-9:00pm 8th Grade Graduation Dance: Friday, May 29 from 8:00pm-10:00pm *If the school year is extended due to snow days, the graduation date may be changed.

FORMS

Students are mailed a packet of information to be turned in at Open House. The following required forms must be turned in to the Lincoln office: Enrollment Form (provides family and student emergency contact information to school staff) Medical Form (provides student medical information for health needs) Parent Authorization Form (which includes signatures for the following) Consent to Treat Form (allows medical treatment of the student in an emergency) School Rules-District Code of Rights & Responsibilities Form (this form is signed by both the student and a parent, indicating they have read the school and district rules and agree to abide by them) Walking Field Trip Form (this form provides parental approval for the student to attend any walking field trip throughout the year. Individual bussed field trips throughout the year will require a separate form with specific field trip information each time). iPad Responsibility & Insurance Form (each student is issued an iPad for use throughout the school year). These forms will be completed during the iPad distribution dates for students/parents (see attached letter).

HEALTH & MEDICATION

Lincoln has a full-time Health Assistant at Lincoln/SOTA II/Coulee Montessori. IN addition, we also have in place an emergency response team consisting of eight staff members. This team has been trained to respond to an emergency medical situation within the building. The purpose of this medical response team is to provide a safe and organized method of emergency assistance until professional help arrives. Please refer to our website at www.lacrosseschools.com/lincoln under “office-pupil services” for detailed health information for parents.

On occasion, it may be necessary for your child to take medication in the school setting. In order to do this, you need to follow the school policy and Wisconsin State Statutes Medication Forms: If your child will be taking any medication at school (prescription or non-prescription), a Medication Form must be completed (a form is available through the Lincoln office).

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Prescription Medication: • Must have written consent signatures by both a parent and a physician on the Medication Form. • Must be in a current, properly labeled prescription bottle. • Students may not carry medications in school. (Exception: Asthma inhalers may be carried with appropriate written consent from physician on the Medication Form). Non-Prescription Medication: • Must have written consent from parents on the Medication Form, indicating the exact instructions for administration; such as name of drug, amount to be given, and how often it is to be given. • Medication must be in its original container. Changes in Order: • When changes in the original medication order occur, they must be sent to school in its original container. Any Questions: Please contact the school office at 789-7780 with any questions.

MEALS

Meal Times & Cost: Breakfast 6:55am-7:25am Regular Priced $1.55 Reduced Priced $0.30 Students who eat breakfast at Lincoln are to enter through the Ferry Street doors.

Brunch First Breakfast at Lincoln $1.55 Second Breakfast at Lincoln Ala Carte Costs Bruch in the classroom will be offered to 6th grade students only. All other students may eat regular breakfast from 6:55am-7:25am daily. Lunch 8th Grade 12:00pm 7th Grade 11:15am 6th Grade 12:45pm Regular Priced $2.65 Reduced Priced $0.40 Ala Carte: Ala Carte items are purchased separately (through the student PIN# or cash). Parents who do not wish for their student to participate in the ala carte program should contact the school kitchen.

*Applications for free or reduced meals are included in the summer mailing through the district School Nutrition office or are also on the Lincoln website.

ONLINE MEAL PAYMENTS

RevTrak and Skyward are excited to announce a recent upgrade to the Skyward Family Access integration for online payments! Families can now make meal payments for multiple students in one transaction. Payments made through Family Access are in real time and will immediately post to the student’s nutrition service account. For the convenience of making an online payment, a $0.50 fee will be accessed at checkout. To Make Payments Online • Visit our district website at www.lacrosseschools.org • Click on the Family/Student Access tab • Login to Skyward Family Access (you will need your Login and Password) • Use Discover, MasterCard, or VISA (debit or credit card) – card number and expiration date required

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STUDENT IPAD TECHNOLOGY

Every student at Lincoln/SOTA II/Coulee Montessori will be issued a district owned iPad, case and charger to use during his/her middle school experience. The primary purpose of the device is to facilitate a student-centered, enhanced learning environment. Providing a device for each student brings equal access to tools that support a 24/7 learning environment. Students are responsible for the care and safe keeping of the device assigned to them. Parents do have the option of purchasing insurance for the device at a cost of $20 per school year. iPad Distribution dates for both parents and students are: 8th grade (September 2), 7th grade (September 3), 6th grade (September 8). See iPad distribution letter in your summer mailing.

SCHOOL PHOTOS

School pictures will be taken this year on Thursday, August 28 between 12:00pm-6:00pm. Order forms are included in this mailing packet. Students requesting retakes are reminded that they must bring in their original packet of photographs and there will be no charge for retake photos. Retake photos are scheduled for Wednesday, September 24 from approximately 7:30am-9:00am. All students should have photos taken for the yearbook (whether they purchase a photo package or not).

VOLUNTEERS

Any adult volunteering at school or chaperoning a field trip must have an approved district Criminal Background Check Forms are available in the school office. Please allow two weeks for processing volunteer forms.

PROGRAMS

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS In addition to grade level core classes, Lincoln offers instruction in the areas of art, music, health, physical education, world language, computers, library media, family & consumer education and technology and business education. Sixth grade students are required to take general music, health, art, and physical education. Seventh graders are required to take physical education, health, art, family and technical education, music and one world language chosen from Spanish or German. Eighth grade students are required to take electives ranging from world language, band, orchestra, chorus, music lab, technology education and business classes.

6TH GRADE TEAM: Students will study the four core subject areas in 6th grade (English language arts, social studies, math, and science) and many connections will be made. In fact, we’re of the opinion that all knowledge is connected, and we strive to make as many of these connections as possible during the course of the school year. Learning is not an isolating experience, but rather, an enriching one. We also believe that social and emotional learning are an integral part of the classroom experience. We focus on teaching our students through cooperation, assertion, responsibility, empathy and self-control. 6th Grade Homework Policy: The 6th grade teachers will define/discuss with student what quality work entails. (1) The 6th grade teachers expect that all work be handed in on time. (2) Work handed in on time must be quality work. If not, the student will be asked to redo it.

7TH GRADE MEDICAL PARTNERSHIP POD: The name Medical Partnership comes from the practice of using community resources such as Franciscan-Skemp and Gundersen-Lutheran, Viterbo University, and the Health Sciences Center as partners to increase learning. Field learning experiences and guest teachers in the classroom create a unique learning environment. The majority of the field learning is focused on science and applied mathematics, but students also practice notetaking, listening, and discussion skills. Guest speakers are often invited to Social Studies to bring world cultures into the classroom. Personnel from the Wisconsin DNR, Hixon Forest, and the City of La Crosse also provide field learning experiences for Medical Partnership students. Topics of study from the core areas are often integrated with Art projects in cooperation with Lincoln art teachers. Medical Partnership students attend lunch and classes in World Language, Family and Technology, Physical Education, Computers, Health, and Music with their peers in the Community Connections pod.

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7th Grade Medical Partnership Homework Policy (1) Homework is due at the beginning of class. Late assignments will result in a reduced grade and the student will serve lunch detention until the assignment is completed. Students who fail to show up for lunch detention may receive other disciplinary action.

7TH GRADE COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS: The 7th Community Connections pod will provide students with a variety of hands-on learning experiences within the Coulee Region. Community Connections will emphasize the importance of making connections within the community to achieve academic, social, and physical goals. Community Connections is based on the Common Core state standards and those of the School District of LaCrosse and emphasizes product, performance, and demonstration. Community partners include: Butterfield Farms, Camp Salem, Department of National Resources, EcoPark, Friends of Black River, Hixon Forest, LaCrosse Public Library, Lanesboro Community Theater, Minneapolis Museum of Art, News Channel 9, Pettibone, RCPA, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, UW-Extension, UW-LaCrosse, Viterbo University and Western Technical College. 7th Grade Community Connections Homework Policy (1) All students in the Community Connections pod are expected to complete all coursework by the assigned completion date and time. Any assignment that fails to meet this requirement will result in a reduced grade and the students will be held accountable until the work is finished. Lunch detentions are a possibility.

8TH GRADE TEAM: 8th grade students will travel between core teachers in the areas of science, history, mathematics, and English language arts composition. Within each of these classes, the teacher is dedicated to providing an interactive, challenging curriculum. Each class consists of a variety of teaching styles being used daily. Basic skills taught are reinforced across all disciplines in 8th grade. The 8th grade staff works closely with support staff in the building to insure all students are receiving a quality education. Not only is 8th grade a transition year into high school, but it is a transition year into life. A goal of 8th grade teachers is to prepare students to make important life decisions by focusing on cooperative learning, decision making, and critical thinking skills. The 8th grade curriculum also focuses on introducing students to a variety of careers in life, reinforced by Career Day which takes place in January. 8th grade is also an important year because students will take the WKCE test (Science, Social Studies, and the Smarter Balanced Assessment) in November. This is a reflection of the knowledge students have accumulated throughout their education. The year is concluded with an annual class event or celebration. 8th Grade Homework Policy (1) Team 8 teachers generally expect students to work on homework for one hour per night. This will vary depending on if the students are to be working on projects, long-term assignments, or any other assignment that would have an extended deadline. Students can always be reviewing information in each class or at least be reading a book. (2) Team 8 teachers see homework as an important aspect of student growth and learning. Therefore, all homework is expected to be turned in on time. Homework will be accepted for full credit only on the due date. Eighth grade teachers understand that sometimes challenges arise with homework completion. In an effort to give students a break, each student will be given two homework passes per quarter which will allow him/her to turn in two assignments one day late without penalty. The student may choose to use these two homework passes in any of the academic core classes.

SOTA II: SOTA II began operation in the fall of 1997 as a middle school of choice and currently serves approximately 40 students, grade 6-7. Studies link the active learning of an art form to increased student motivation and the ability to learn other skills like reading, mathematics, and writing. Research has also linked participation in the arts to such positive outcomes as increased student participation in community service and appreciation of cultural differences. Similar research indicates that a wide range of computer technologies support the development of advanced thinking, analyzing, and synthesizing skills. SOTA II uses technology and the arts as tools for integrating learning of core subjects into thematic units. This method of curriculum delivery takes into account individual student interest and skills and allows students a different way to show their learning. SOTA II extends the learning experience of SOTA I to emphasize the importance of social and emotional learning, community building, and teamwork.

COULEE MONTESSORI: The Coulee Montessori Adolescent Program serves approximately 35 students, grade 6-8. The Coulee Montessori curriculum continues with the Montessori Philosophy that children have the innate desire to learn and that they learn best in an atmosphere where they can participate actively, concentrate without Student-Parent Handbook Page 10 interruption, and work at an individual pace. Now the program concentrates on the adolescents’ preoccupation with oneself as a member of the greater society. Through rigourous studies and experiential learning, students develop a comprehensive knowledge of the world, grapple with complex issues and problems, embrace civic responsibilities, and engage with people different than themselves.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT PROGRAMS

ELL: The Lincoln ELL Department provides services for students who are currently English language learners. Each year the services vary according to the population. Support includes the following: classroom support, resource and supervised study coverage, bilingual transition classes, and Homework Assistance. Native language support is also provided to the parents as well to facilitate communication between the school and families.

HPL: High Performance Learning (HPL) needs are addressed in several ways at Lincoln. HPL students at Lincoln have the chance to participate in many special events such as, Battle of the Books, National History Day Competition, Math/Science Expo, Junior Great Books and Math League Contests. In addition, special interest forums are coordinated once a quarter on topics of interest to HPL students. Some of those topics are leadership, chemistry, and technology.

SPECIAL EDUCATION: Lincoln/SOTA II/Coulee Montessori offers a comprehensive Special Education program. SLD (Specific Learning Disability): Learning Disabilities may be one of the most misunderstood areas of special education. Most specific learning disabilities result in difficulty learning to read, write, and spell. In addition, these disabilities may also interfere with success in mathematics. To qualify for services in the SLD program, a student must have been provided a series of interventions and not made substantial growth. At that point a SPED referral may be made and testing for SLD can begin.

EBD (Emotionally Behavior Disability ): Special education services are also provided for students who have disabilities in the area of emotional or behavior disturbance. Students who qualify for behavioral programming range from those who act out externally to those who internalize emotional issues. The Special Education team at Lincoln strives to attend to the individual needs of all students identified for special education. This is accomplished through the development of the student’s IEP or individual educational plan. The IEP is developed at a meeting of concerned participants which includes parents, regular and special education staff, an administrator and when appropriate, representatives of other outside agencies. Programming at Lincoln is primarily inclusive, as students generally spend their day in regular education classroom with “pull out” as needed. Therefore, the planning that goes into curriculum modifications, supplemental instruction, and often behavior management is essential to the success of our special education students. It is our philosophy that by working together with regular education staff and families to identify students’ needs and to develop reasonable objectives for learning, students will experience success in school.

COGNITIVE DISABILITIES: Cognitive Disability (CD) services are currently not available at Lincoln.

SPEECH & LANGUAGE: The Speech and Language program at Lincoln is a Special Education service provided for any student in grades 6-8 who has been referred, evaluated, and found to have a need in one or more of the many facets of speech and language development. Speech needs include, but are not limited to, delays or discrepancies of articulation, voice quality, and fluency. Receptive and expressive language areas suggesting a possible speech/language handicap may include difficulty with the comprehension of written and spoken language, vocabulary comprehension delays, the use of extremely basic vocabulary in both spoken and written communication and difficulty with direction following and the sequencing of events. Significant difficulties in the area of problem solving and reasoning and logic skills are major red flags for a probable language delay and reason for services. Referrals for Speech & Language use a system similar to those for SLD.

PUPIL SERVICES: Did you know that the Lincoln has student service staff consisting of two school counselors, a school psychologist, and a school nurse. They work as a team with teachers, administrators, and parents to help students get the most out of school. Some of the duties of this team are to: • Evaluate students referred for suspected educational disabilities

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• Help problem-solve regular education concerns about students • Confer with teachers about the learning, social development and needs of individual students. • Establish communication between the home and school to benefit the student • Interpret test findings and behavioral data for parents, teachers and students • Provide individual assistance to students designed to help the student successfully cope with his/her own needs and demands of life situations • Collaborate with agencies outside of school, including medical staff, to meet individual student needs  Provide information at SMT meetings for intervention strategies

LITERACY SPECIALIST: The Literacy Specialist at Lincoln has many responsibilities. This person works collaboratively with administration, teachers, students, and parents to coordinate a comprehensive reading/ language arts program. In addition, the literacy specialist is involved in team teaching with other teachers, is available to provide learning opportunities in all classrooms in regard to reading and language arts, and interacts with students on a regular basis to improve learning. Other responsibilities include developing, implementing and maintaining an appropriate reading/language arts curriculum, gathering data for all middle school students, and assisting and mentoring new teachers. The Literacy Specialist is an integral member of SMT teams and assists in providing interventions and training for staff.

STUDENT SUPPORT PROGRAMS

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER: The School Resource Liaison Officer is a member of the Lincoln staff. His role is to assist in supervision of the students, ensure the safety of students and staff, inform students about the juvenile justice code, foster conflict resolution and peer mediation, be available to manage law enforcement issues and lead classroom presentations and discussions. The officer interacts in a positive way with the students and serves as a mentor to several students.

SMT: (Student Management Team) is a committee made up of staff representation from each grade and charter school at Lincoln. The goal of SMT is to provide ideas and support for teachers, to allow for monitoring of student needs, to access other interventions, and to act as a pre-screening for special education referrals. The SMT committee meets regularly throughout the school year. Any staff member or parent can refer a child to SMT.

CULTURAL & FAMILY CONNECTIONS PROGRAM: Program Goals are to: 1. Facilitate communication between minority families and the schools 2. Advocate for minority students/families/schools 3. Decrease at-risk behaviors in our minority population 4. Support/collaborate with community agencies which benefit minority populations 5. Cooperate/collaborate with all other district staff to support and assist minority students 6. Improve attendance of minority students 7. Assist with staff development on diversity related issues Emphasis is placed on students who are most at-risk! Dempsey Miller-African American Liaison, Naohoua (Tony) Yang – Hmong Liaison, Henry Greengrass – Title VII

HOMEWORK ASSISTANCE: This “drop in” homework assistance for all students meets both before and after school beginning September 15. The “Sunrise” Homework Assistance meets from 6:55am-7:25am Tuesday-Friday in Room 208. The “After School” Homework Assistance meets from 2:45pm-4:00pm Monday-Thursday in the LMC.

The goals are to: • Give students a quiet, structured study area after the school day. • Give students more access to teachers for homework assistance. • Personalize the middle school environment • Develop and reinforce positive relationships between students and teachers. • Foster the development of study skills and consistent, appropriate study habits in middle school students. • Increase student productivity and decrease student and parent frustration associated with homework. • Provide students with the opportunity to experience success through preparation. • Provide direct instruction in study skills.

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Students who continually do not complete homework may be escorted to the after school homework session with parent permission. For more information please contact the school office.

STUDENT COUNCIL: Lincoln students in grades 6-8 can be involved in Student Council. Their main goal is to help make the school a fun place to learn and enjoy friendships. They enjoy doing community service projects throughout the school year. The following are examples of some of the things that have been done over the years. Halloween Costume Contest, Veteran's Day Program, Candy Cane Fundraiser, Cougar Cabinet Food Drive, Hat/Mitten Tree, Penny Wars, and Spirit Week. They are open to any suggestions and welcome everyone to participate in the activities.

ART GALLERY: The purpose of the Lincoln Art Gallery is to understand and appreciate original works of art and to transfer these experiences into other aspects of the visitors’ lives. The gallery gives students a chance to view original art works and makes these primary resources accessible to broad audiences in and out of the school building. This setting engages the learner’s own interests, ideas, and experiences in a less structured environment. It is used as an extension of the classroom. Lincoln will exhibit art shows from students in grades 6-8 annually during the school year. Exhibits will range from objects in the visual arts and sculptural installations, to private collections and cultural displays. Students have the opportunity to hang exhibits, mail gallery information, use computer skills for graphic work, give tours of the work displayed, and work with professional artists. This gives students a sense of ownership and optimism important to the overall attitude of the school environment.

AFTER SCHOOL CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES: Athletics, music and club opportunities are available to students in grades 6-8. Information, schedules, news and photos are published on our Activities website at www.lacrosseschools.com/Lincoln. A physical is required every other year for athletics only.

NEW THIS YEAR: Parents must complete online registration for sports. Go to the school website at www.lacrosseschools.com/lincoln. You need to register only once for athletics for your child for the school year.

Sports Offered: Fall Sports Boys Football (grades 7-8) Boys & Girls Cross Country (grades 6-8) Girls Volleyball (grades 7-8) Girls Tennis (grades 6-8) Winter Sports Boys Basketball (grades 7-8) Girls Basketball (grades 7-8) Spring Sports Boys Tennis (grades 6-8) Boys & Girls Track (grades 6-8) Clubs Offered: Yearly Drama Production (grades 6-8) Outdoor Adventures (grade 6-8) German Club (grade 7-8) Yearbook Club (grades 6-8) Student Council FBLA Cooking Club Robotics Music Offered: Yearly Show Choir (grade 7-8) Jazz Band (grade 7-8) Holiday Brass (grade 6-8) Symphonic Band (grade 6-8) Chamber Orchestra (grade 6-8) Drama Musical Production (grade 6-8)

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SUMMER ATHLETIC PRACTICES: GIRLS TENNIS (Grades 6-8) GIRLS VOLLEYBALL (Grades 7-8) Summer Practices @ Forest Hills Tennis Courts Summer Practices at Lincoln: August 25 from 3:30pm-5:30pm August 25 from 3:30pm-5:30pm August 26 from 3:30pm-5:30pm August 26 from 3:30pm-5:30pm August 27 from 3:30pm-5:30pm August 27 from 3:30pm-5:30pm August 28 from 3:30pm-5:30pm August 28 from 3:30pm-5:30pm August 29 from 3:30pm-5:30pm August 29 from 3:30pm-5:30pm (Athletes must find rides to Forest Hills for summer practices)

BOYS FOOTBALL (Grades 7-8) BOYS & GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY (Grades 6-8) Equipment Handout at Lincoln: Summer Practice Runs: (begin/end at Lincoln) 8th: August 18 @ 9:00am August 25 from 3:30pm-5:00pm 7th: August 18 @ 10:00am August 26 from 3:30pm-5:00pm Summer Practice at Hogan: 807 East Ave So August 27 from 3:30pm-5:00pm August 19 from 8:00am-10:00am August 28 from 3:30pm-5:00pm August 20 from 8:00am-10:00am August 29 from 8:00am-9:30am August 21 from 8:00am-10:00am August 22 from 8:00am-10:00am August 25 from 3:30pm-5:30pm August 26 from 3:30pm-5:30pm August 27 from 3:30pm-5:30pm August 28 from 3:30pm-5:30pm August 29 from 8:00am-10:00am

RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS

RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS Lincoln has developed a fund from generous donations entitled Random Acts of Kindness. This fund is used for items students cannot afford and are needed for success in school. If you would like to donate toward this fund, or if you know of an individual student need, please contact the school office.

LINCOLN “COUGAR CABINET” Lincoln’s “Cougar Cabinet” will be open again in the fall. Items available for students/families include food, clothing, and school supplies. Parents who need items from the pantry should contact the school office at 789-7780.

REPORT CARDS

ACADEMIC PROGRESS OF STUDENTS Parents need Skyward Family Access to monitor student progress on a daily basis. Contact the school office if you have misplaced your Skyward username/password.

QUARTERLY REPORT CARDS Report cards are posted quarterly in Family Access for online view by parents/guardians. Families who would like report cards mailed home should contact the school office at 789-7780.

GRADING POLICY During the past two years, the Middle School Grading Committee comprised of classroom teachers and administrators submitted a revised procedure for grading that has been approved by the school district Associate Superintendent of Instruction. The purpose of this information is to give parents and students information as to key components of the new grading system. It is important to the success of this system that teachers keep their online grade book current and parents utilize “Skyward Family Access” to view the grade book instead of waiting until the end of a quarterly period. Grades: In core academic subjects (Math, English, Science, and Social Studies) the teacher will grade each student with (4) letter grades per subject area. Elective teachers (Physical Education, Health, Art, World Language, etc) may choose to use the new grading system or continue with past procedures. In the new system a teacher will give an “Academic Grade” (A,B,C,D,F) and (3) Responsibility Skill grades (A,B,C,Needs Improvement) per quarter

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(Readiness, Participation, Behavior). At the beginning of each quarter, the previous quarter grades become history and a new grading period will begin. Only academic grades will be stored for future information (history) of the student. Academic Grade: This grade is based on academic performance of the student on traditional teacher generated assignments, quizzes, tests, projects, presentations, etc. A = 90% B = 80% C = 70% D = 60%

Responsibility Grades: The skills of being prepared for class, actively participating, and having good behavior will be graded using a rubric. All students begin each quarter with a “B” grade in each of these (3) areas. Teachers may raise, lower, or leave the grade as a “B” over the course of the quarter. Each quarter the student grade will again begin anew as a “B” in each of the (3) areas. Teachers may still choose to post “comments” on the quarterly report cards. Why this change? Middle school staff have reflected on the ever increasing grade inflation in our current grading procedure. Often a course grade is based on a range of student behaviors, attitudes, cooperation, effort, as well as academic performance. The resulting grade is not a true measurement of the academic achievement/ability of the student. Our hope is that the new grading system gives a more authentic measurement of the learning displayed by the student in the academic area as well as important skill areas. It is very possible that the student may have a high academic grade and lower responsibility grades and vice versa. This should give more accurate feedback on the performance and behaviors a student brings to class each day. Key shared responsibilities for the new grading procedure: (1) Parents gain access to their child’s grades through Skyward Family Access (Parent username/password mailed to parents over the summer). Please contact the school office if you have misplaced your username/password. (2) Teachers will need to record their classroom “grades” on assignments, tests, etc. on a timely basis to give accurate feedback to students and parents. (3) Some students may see academic grades that are lower than in the past as these grades are more reflective of classroom learning. Other students may see higher academic grades, but a truer assessment of their classroom citizenship skills. (4) Continued communication with students, parents, and staff as to the new system during the upcoming school year.

LACROSSE MIDDLE SCHOOLS - Responsibility Skills Rubric (Middle School Report Card)

A B NEEDS IMPROVEMENT Readiness: The student is prepared for The student is usually The student needs Denotes that the student is class with required class prepared for class with improvement in being better ready to learn. materials and assignments. required class materials and prepared for class with assignments required class materials and assignments.

Participation: The student is engaged in The student is usually The student needs to be A measure of the students classroom activities and engaged in classroom engaged in classroom engagement. discussions without being activities when asked as activities and discussions. asked as evidenced by evidenced by listening, listening, contributing, and contributing, and asking asking questions. questions.

Behavior: The student follows The student usually follows The student needs to improve A measure of adherence to classroom rules. classroom rules. on following classroom rules. classroom expectations.

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RULES & CONSEQUENCES

PBIS (Positive Behavior Intention & SUPPORTS) Our teacher (classroom), hallway, and general school discipline procedures are based on our staff modeling and enforcing positive behavior procedures. These procedures encourage staff to remind students of appropriate school and classroom behaviors before possible referral to the office. Office consequences for continued inappropriate student behavior range from meetings with the Principal or Dean of Students to referral to our School Resource Officer thus police involvement. Students also earn positive acknowledgement of their behavior and accomplishments through school-wide assemblies.

At Lincoln/SOTA II/Coulee Montessori it is important that every student feels safe. In order to insure this, there are some important rules and guidelines that all students are expected to follow. All students are expected to follow the Student Code of Rights and Responsibilities, adopted by the School District of La Crosse. More detailed information is listed below. A. CO-CURRICULAR: All students involved in or attending co-curricular functions are expected to behave appropriately at Lincoln and events at all other schools. B. COMPUTERS & IPADS: The use of computers and iPads are a privilege at Lincoln. Students are expected to follow established guidelines in relation to the use of these devices. Any type of hacking, spamming or tampering with the technology and its physical components will result in disciplinary action. Students are not to use any staff computers or iPads. The Acceptable Use Policy is available upon request from Lincoln. (See Item O for Student Personal Equipment). C. DRESS: Students are expected to come to school in clean, appropriate clothing. Some examples of inappropriate clothing include but are not limited to; clothing that has bandana inserts, excessively baggy pants, pants that fall below and/or are worn below the waistline, pants with holes, clothing with beer, liquor, drugs, cigarettes, vulgar or sexual comments, shirts that are tight, reveal a bare midriff, low-cut, revealing, or have spaghetti straps. Jackets, sport starter jackets, and hats/caps will not be worn or taken to class. During the winter months, students may become chilled. It is advisable to keep a long-sleeved shirt, sweater, or sweatshirt in their locker. All hats/caps are to be taken off as students enter the building and not worn until they leave the building. Students choosing to wear inappropriate clothing will be asked to change or call parents/guardians to bring different clothing if necessary. Continued violation of the dress code may result in disciplinary action. D. FIGHTING: Fighting is an inappropriate behavior that will not be tolerated at Lincoln. Unnecessary roughness, pushing, shoving, kicking, using fists, or any other physical or verbal conflicts are considered types of fighting. The police may be contacted in relation to any type of fight. The police have the authority to talk to students without parent permission. Students may be charged with disorderly conduct, assault, and/or battery, a referral to Human Services, and/or school consequences. E. CELL PHONES: With the implementation of student assigned iPads for school use, no other personal electronic devices will be allowed. Students may store personal cell phones in their locker (turned off) for use after school. F. FOOD: Due to the nature of food to attact pests, we do not advise the bringing of soda, candy or other sugary food items. No items may be brought from home to sell to other students. Unopened snacks may be kept in lockers until after school. Students having a mid-morning brunch may bring a nutritious snack (sandwich, fruit, crackers, etc.). Breakfast and lunch are the students’ time to eat and socialize. It is expected to be a pleasant, enjoyable time. Students are expected to be respectful of the rights of others in the lunchroom and be responsible for their eating area. G. HARASSMENT/INTIMIDATION/BULLYING: Our students have the right to attend school without fear of physical threat, harm, verbal or racial abuse. Students are expected to refrain from threatening, using inappropriate language, intimidating, teasing, intentionally excluding someone from a group, or inappropriately touching students or staff. H. ILLEGAL ACTIONS: Illegal actions are considered very serious. In-School Suspension and /or Out-of-School Suspension will be implemented for one to five days. In addition, the police may be called and charges may be pressed and/or a referral to Human Services will be made. Illegal actions include, but are not limited to: ARSON: Any intentional destruction due to burning. BOMB THREAT: Suggesting a bomb is present. EXTORTION: To obtain money, information, or other goods through threat or intimidation. FIRE ALARMS: Pulling or touching any part of a fire alarm that is not warranted. FIRECRACKERS: Any type of explosive that may produce noise. GAMBLING: To bet money or other stakes on the outcome of an event. GANG ACTIVITY: Any gang symbols or actions alluding to gang activity. LASER POINTERS: Any intentional direction of a beam of light from a laser pointer. RECORDING DEVICES: Using cell phone and/or electronic devices to take pictures or record school events is prohibited without administrative permission. This includes restrooms, locker rooms, and other dressing areas.

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SEXUAL ASSAULT: Any unwanted sexual advance THEFT: Taking something that does not rightfully belong to a person. VANDALISM: Willfully causing damage to property. WEAPONS: It is illegal to bring weapons to school. Any student with a weapon, simulated weapon, knives, bombs, firecrackers, or materials that could be constituted as a weapon will be referred to the police and may be expelled from Lincoln. These threatening items will be confiscated from students or their lockers. Parents/ guardians will be notified. Lincoln is a safe school whose students are kept safe and supervised at all times. The outside doors to the school are locked during the school day. There is a video monitor and door buzzer security at this entrance. Persons entering the school are required to check in and out at the office. In the unlikely event of an armed intruder or other dangerous event, Lincoln does have a security plan in place. This plan encompasses and involves the safety of each member of the school. I. ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES: ALCOHOL: Any students caught with alcohol or under the influence of alcohol will be suspended from school AND a referral may be made to Human Services. The police will be contacted and a citation may also be issued. DRUGS: Any students caught with any type of drug, drug paraphernalia, or related product will be suspended from school AND the police will be called. Students should be aware they are responsible for any illegal substance on their person or in their locker even if it is not theirs. Please keep student locker combinations private. Do not share lockers. TOBACCO OR NICOTINE: Any students caught with cigarettes, e-cigs, smoking, chewing tobacco, or having in their possession any related substances will be suspended and a police referral will be made. Students observed smoking on or near the school would be reported to the police as well. Please refer to the Middle School Co-curricular Activities Code for other consequences for participants in those activities. J. LOCKERS: Lockers are school property. They are for students to store their personal belongings and school supplies during the school day. The lockers may be searched at any time if reasonable suspicion exists. Students are NOT to give their locker combinations to other students. Students are not to share lockers. Lockers are not to be drawn on, kicked, or filled so they cannot be opened or closed easily. Students are to keep lockers neat and orderly. Any damage will be charged to the student assigned to the locker. Inappropriate pictures or decorations are not allowed in or on the lockers. Do not “preset” your locker for easy entry. Be sure to “spin it” (spin your combination) after use to keep belongings safe. K. PASSES: Students must have a pass to be in the hallway except during passing time. Only ONE person’s name is allowed on a pass. Students who share a pass, do not have a pass, or forge a pass may have a disciplinary action. L. PROFANITY: Students are expected to use appropriate language at all times. Students swearing or using inappropriate language will be disciplined accordingly. Any swearing, disrespectful language, or threat directed at any staff member will result in disciplinary action. Parents/guardians must return with their child for a conference with the Dean of Students and/or Principal before the child can return to school. Repeated offenses or prolonged verbal assault may be reported to the police as disorderly conduct. M. RESPECT: Students are expected to be respectful of others as well as the school building itself. This means following directives given by adult staff in the halls, classrooms, gym, playground, office, and lunchroom area N. SNOWBALLS: Snowballs are not to be thrown anywhere on the school grounds. This includes the sidewalks around the school. Students throwing snowballs will face disciplinary action, which could result in suspension from school. In addition, depending on the circumstances, students may also be charged with disorderly conduct. This rule is to prevent accidents involving students, staff, pedestrians, and drivers. O. STUDENT ITEMS: PERSONAL CELL PHONES & ELECTRONIC DEVICES: With the implementation of student assigned iPads for school use, no other personal electronic devices will be allowed during the school day. Students may store personal cell phones in their locker (turned off) for use after school. BICYCLES: Bike racks are available on Division Street for students to store their bikes during the school day. Bikes should be walked by students once they reach school property to keep walking students safe. It is recommended that bicycles be LOCKED UP at the bike racks. See Mr. Bahr if your child is in need of a bike lock. Lincoln is a participant of the Safe Routes to School program. BOOK BAGS/ATHLETIC BAGS: Book bags and athletic bags must remain in hall lockers until 2:45 p.m. per safety concerns. Trapper Keepers and zipper binders are popular with middle school students and will hold most items needed for classes. Special arrangements will be made for students in casts, on crutches, or with other special circumstances. MONEY AND OTHER VALUABLES: It is not advisable to bring large amounts of money or expensive jewelry to school. Do not keep jewelry, money, or expensive items in the hall or gym lockers. Keep your hall locker combination confidential. Always lock your gym locker and your hall locker. Do not leave your clothes and school items out on the bench or on the floor. Report any missing items to the teacher or office immediately. SKATEBOARDS, ROLLERBLADES, SCOOTERS: Skateboards, rollerblades, and scooters may be kept in the lockers. There is a storage closet by the Division Street door where these items can be kept during the school day. Please put

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names on these items. Skateboards, rollerblades, scooters, and bikes are to be used off school grounds during school hours from 7:00am- 3:30pm. School grounds include the playground, ramps, steps around the school building, and the sidewalks. The school will not be responsible for the loss of items from your locker or the storage closet. Valuable items should be left at home. P. SUBSTITUTES: Substitute teachers, student teachers, and interns are considered guests in our building. Students who are disrespectful or not cooperative with substitutes will face disciplinary action. Q. TELEPHONE USE: During the school day students are only to use the phone in the case of an emergency. Permission must be granted before the phone can be used. There will be a phone in the office and Commons for necessary calls between 2:45 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. The phone is to be used for rides home or making arrangements with parents/guardians. It is suggested that students make plans with parents/guardians before arriving to school. The phone in the Commons is not to be used during the school day. It is available for students to use to call for rides home after practices or events. Students are allowed to use personal cell phones before or after school hours. Violation of cell phone use may result in confiscation and pick up by a parent.

DISCIPLINARY ACTION: Most student discipline incidents referred to the office are made to Mr. Check, Dean of Students. Mrs. Murray, Principal, will be involved in more serious discipline incidents. Punishment itself cannot and does not change behavior. However, under certain conditions, appropriate consequences along with teaching and modeling of appropriate behavior are the most effective means to help change those behaviors. Action(s) that may be utilized in addressing student discipline issues include but are not limited to the following: TEACHER DETENTION: A classroom teacher may ask students to remain after school for a brief period of time for such infractions as tardiness, disruptive behavior, or a non-productive class period. If students fail to show up for this detention and do not make a suitable arrangement with the teacher, then the teacher will ask the Dean of Students to assign an After-School Detention. OFFICE DETENTION: During class time a disruptive student may be sent to the office so the teacher may continue teaching the class without disruption. The students are assigned to the office for the rest of the class hour. In addition, the student may also be assigned an After-School Detention. AFTER-SCHOOL DETENTION: The Principal or Dean of Students assign After-School detentions for infractions. This detention may be thirty to sixty minutes in length. Detention starts at 2:45 p.m. and lasts until 3:15 or 3:45 p.m. depending on the assigned detention. Detentions are held Monday through Friday in a classroom under the supervision of a teacher. Students work quietly on homework or read during this time. Students choosing to skip an assigned detention will face additional consequences. Repeated refusals to serve detentions will result in an in-school suspension, out-of- school suspension, and/or restriction from other school functions. Students are notified orally and are expected to let their parent/guardians know about the detention. Students may serve detention the day of the infraction or the following school day if arrangements need to be made for a ride home. Students MUST serve detentions before attending any athletic practice, game, or other school related activity. IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION (ISS): In-School Suspension is arranged for students who refuse to honor the lighter consequence of detention or for students who are involved in a serious behavior incident. During In-School Suspension students are assigned to a Detention Room for the school day. Assignments are brought to the students, bathroom breaks are given; and lunch is brought to the students. OUT-OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION (OSS): Out-of-School Suspension is one of the most serious consequences at Lincoln and is implemented when students have committed a very serious infraction of the rules or have chronically misbehaved. OSS can be from 1-5 days with a parent/guardian conference at the end of the time in order to admit the student back into school. Parents/guardians or a designated person will be called to come and pick up the child. EXPULSION: Students will be recommended for expulsion from Lincoln for serious, chronic misbehavior, or possession of weapons, as well as other severe issues.

The prescribed action(s) will be based on the facts of each particular situation, student attitudes and behavior patterns, and the teacher/administrator’s professional judgment.

SCHEDULES

FIRST DAY INFORMATION On the first day of school, September 2, students are to report to the areas listed by 7:25am: 6th Grade Lunchroom 7th Grade Gymnasium 8th Grade Auditorium SOTA II Room 213 Coulee Montessori Room 308

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SCHOOL DAY HOURS Breakfast 6:55am-7:25am First Bell 7:25am Final Morning Bell (Class Starts) 7:35am Dismissal Bell 2:45pm Students must be seated in their chairs by the 7:35am final morning bell or they may be marked tardy.

STUDENT SCHEDULES AND LOCKERS Student schedules and locker combinations are given to students during Open House. Additional copies will again be given to students on the first day of school if misplaced. Only students new to the district must pre-register. Students are not to give out locker combinations or share lockers. Students are reminded to hang backpacks on the back hooks of lockers to avoid jamming. Valid requests for schedule changes may be made during the week of September 8-12. Requests are not guaranteed and will be based upon the individual request, class size, etc. A schedule change request form can be picked up from the office. Once a student has completed the form with all appropriate signatures, the form is to be turned in to the office. Students are to remain with their current schedule until a Guidance Counselor gives them a new one. Students will receive schedules and locker information at Open House.

SCHOOL FEES Students will pay fees listed below if they are enrolled in the following classes. Do not send the fee until instructed to do so by the classroom teacher. If for some reason the student fees cannot be paid, please contact Mrs. Loeffler in the school office. 7th Grade Vocational Education Fee $5.00/semester 8th Grade Small Business for Teens $2.00 (optional stock purchase) 8th Grade Foods & Family $3.00/semester 8th Grade Exploring Technology $10.00/semester 8th Grade Construction & Manufacturing $5.00/semester 8th Grade Teens & Clothing $15.00/semester Please issue separate checks for school fees and any other school payments (ie: field trips, school meals, etc).

SCHOOL WEBSITE-PARENT SKYWARD ACCESS

Please be sure to visit our school website at www.lacrosseschools.com/lincoln Skyward Family Access School calendar information School news and photos Access to teachers and homework information Health information Lunch calendar Sports and club schedules, information, articles and pictures Event cancellations/changes Helpful information from the library media center E-mail contact for all staff And much, much more!

Skyward Family Access: The School District of LaCrosse is providing Family Access to enhance communication between parents/guardians and their children’s school. This feature allows families to have the following information: schedules, attendance, discipline, gradebook, student information, report cards, health information, activities, and food service. To login, click on the Family/Student Access button on our school website at www.lacrosseschools.com/lincoln. Please contact the Lincoln Office at 789-7780 if you have misplaced your password.

PARENT EMAIL ADDRESSES

It is important that you update your family email address in Family Access as the school office regularly sends out parental reminders of upcoming events, changes to events, and other timely and important information.

SCHOOL PERFORMANCE REPORT

According to state law each school district is to make available the latest School Performance Report (SPR) for interested parties. Copies of the SPR will not be mailed to each home, but individuals may request copies of this information from the Associate Superintendent of Instruction’s office, or they may access the report on the school district website at www.lacrosseschools.org Student-Parent Handbook Page 19

SCHOOL CALENDAR

August 19, 21, 22 ...... New Student Registration (only students new to district) * By Appointment Only (Call 789-7780) NOTE: Families new to the district must first contact the Welcome Center at 608- 789-7756 August 20 from 12:00pm-5:00pm...... 6th Grade AKA Orientation & Open House August 28 at 6:00pm ...... Lincoln 7th Grade Open House August 28 at 6:00pm ...... Lincoln 8th Grade Open House August 28 from 12:00pm-6:00pm...... Student Photos September 2 ...... FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL October 8 @ 12:45pm ...... Early Release Day October 13-14 ...... No School October 13-14 from 12:00pm-8:00pm ...... Parent-Teacher Conferences October 31 ...... No School November 5 ...... END OF QUARTER 1 November 12 @ 12:45pm...... Early Release Day November 26-28 ...... No School December 10 @ 12:45pm ...... Early Release Day December 24-January 2 ...... No School January 14 @ 12:45pm ...... Early Release Day January 16 ...... END OF QUARTER 2 January 19 ...... No School February 11 @ 12:45pm ...... Early Release Day February 20 ...... No School March 9-10 ...... No School March 9-10 from 12:00pm-8:00pm ...... Parent-Teacher Conferences March 11 @ 12:45pm ...... Early Release Day March 24 ...... END OF QUARTER 3 April 2-6 ...... No School April 8 @ 12:45pm ...... Early Release Day May 25 ...... No School (Memorial Day) June 4 ...... LAST DAY OF SCHOOL Emergency School Closings Should more than one school day be lost due to an emergency closing, students and teachers will attend on the following date(s): 1st day missed Waived 2nd day missed June 5 3rd day missed June 8 4th day missed June 9 5th day missed June 10 6th day missed April 2

Student-Parent Handbook Page 20

Student-Parent Handbook Page 21