GUIDELINES FOR DAILY

 LIFE AT S.A.M.S.

 

Arrival At School

         Upon arrival at school, students shall report to the lobby area. Students may sign out of the lobby with teacher permission to go to the library or other locations. Non-bus riding students should not report to school until 8:05 a.m. 

         After arrival on school grounds NO PUPIL WILL BE PERMITTED TO LEAVE except upon permission granted by a member of the administrative staff.  Offenders of the above rule will be subject to disciplinary action. 

 

Opening Exercises

        The Selinsgrove Area School Board has adopted the following policy for opening exercises.  Board Policy 807, Section 2.

        Accordingly, each student will be required to salute the flag and recite the Pledge of Allegiance during each day’s opening exercises. If a student has a conscientious objection which will interfere with full participation in the flag salute or Pledge of Allegiance, said student shall maintain a respectful attitude throughout the ceremony.

       

Teaming

        Selinsgrove Area Middle School has adopted the Team approach to teaching.  A “Team” refers to a group of teachers from the varying disciplines who come in contact with many of the same students throughout the school year.  By teaming, the teachers are able to coordinate their instruction with that of the other team members.  Teaming also creates continuity for the students from subject to subject.  The Team approach also enhances the child-centered goal of middle level education by creating an environment that is conducive to learning.  In addition, teaming enables teachers to communicate concerns more effectively.

 

Attendance

       

Pupils who have been absent from school are required to bring in a signed excuse to school immediately upon returning after the absence. This excuse is to contain the following:  1) dates of absence; 2) reason for the absence; 3) signature of parent or guardian.  Whenever possible, an excuse from the doctor should be presented.  All excuses are to be presented to the Main Office.

        Parent’s are required to submit a written explanation for a legal absence of  their child within five (5) school days from the date of the child’s return to school.  Failure on the parent’s part to provide such a written explanation, or the child to present such an excuse, will result in the absence being recorded as illegal.  Excuses turned in after five (5) days cannot be changed from illegal to excused.

        After eight (8) days of absence not covered by a physician’s excuse, a letter will be sent to the parents stating that the number of absences is significant and additional absences could result in requiring a medical excuse for future absences.

        After twelve (12) days of absence not covered by a physician’s excuse, a certified letter will be sent to the parents stating that all future absences must be verified by a physician’s excuse or they will be marked as illegal absences.

        Doctor’s excuses are NOT needed after absence from school for the following reasons: common cold, chicken pox, injury, surgery or other common complaints.  However, whenever possible, a doctor’s excuse should be presented.

        Any student diagnosed by a physician or suspected by the school nurse of having a communicable disease shall be excluded from school and school functions for an appropriate time as established by the PA. Dept. of Health.

 

Chicken Pox- Six days from the onset of lesions, if all lesions are crusted and dry.

Respiratory Streptococcal Infection -Not less than seven days from the onset if no physician is in attendance; or until fever has subsided and child has been on appropriate medication prescribed by a physician for 24 hours.

Acute Contagious Conjunctivitis-24 hours from the start of appropriate medication prescribed by a physician.

Ringworm,    Impetigo, Pediculosis (Lice), Scabies- until judged non-infective by school nurse or child’s physician.

Measles- Notify the school immediately if a physician diagnoses your child with measles. 

       

        Excuses are classified as “Excused” and “Unlawful” according to the reason for the absence. The School Laws list the following reasons as “Excused” absences: 1) illness of the pupil, 2) quarantine of the home, 3) death in the immediate family, 4) impassable roads, 5) exceptionally urgent reasons. All other absences are “Unlawful” including those absences for which no written excuses are presented to the guidance office.

 

 

Tardiness to School

       

Students, who are reported to the office for tardiness, whether it is before roll call or for lateness to class, will be recorded.  A student, who is late for school or first period beyond the third offense, and subsequent offenses, will be subject to disciplinary action.

 

Tardiness to Class

        Students who are tardy to class (second period through tenth) beyond three (3) times will be subject to disciplinary action.

 

Truancy from School

   

Unlawful absence from school is unacceptable and illegal.  Unlawful absences constitute a criminal offense under the Compulsory School Attendance Laws.  The penalty for this type of violation is a fine and/or imprisonment to those who fail to comply.

        Fines for unlawful absences have recently been increased to $300.00 PLUS court costs.  In addition, students may lose their driving permits/license.

        Any excuse, which is not presented within five days upon returning to school, will be considered unlawful and will constitute a truancy violation.

Educational Tours,

Not School Sponsored

Pupils may be excused from school attendance to participate in an educational trip. This requires the completion of the form “Request for Excused Absence from School for a Preplanned Educational Tour or Trip”.   The form is available in the Main Office and the Guidance Office.  The form is to be completed at least TEN SCHOOL DAYS in advance of the tour or trip.  Failure to do so may result in these days being unexcused absences.

        The Principal will make an evaluation of each request. A determination will be made based upon the following considerations:       

a.   Educational value of the trip for the developmental level of the student.

b.   Attendance record (must be free of illegal and/or unlawful absences)

c.   Number and frequency of prior requests for educational trips.

d.   Present academic standings.

e.   Effect of absence on academic standings.

       

Approved Educational Trips of 1 or 2 Days -The student is required to gather homework assignments and books.  The homework hotline can also be used. Students are responsible to complete assignments.

Approved Educational Trips of 3 or More Days – An assignment request form will be given to the teachers at time the approval is granted.  The student is required to ask the team leader for this form the day before leaving school.  Students are responsible to complete assignments.

 

Homework Assignments for Students When Absent

 

      

HOMEWORK HOT LINE:  Students need to  call the following number after school hours for information regarding homework.

 

372-2250

Follow the prompt to hear your team’s assignments.

       

If books are needed, a family member may come to the school for them.

 

Additionally, UPON REQUEST TO THE MAIN OFFICE (372-2250), worksheets, packets, or other materials/assignments that are not provided by the hotline, will be gathered for a member of the student’s family to pick up.    In the event it is known in advance that a student will be absent for a lengthy period of time, the Guidance Office Personnel should be informed so that arrangements can be made for the student’s assignments.

Appointments During School Day

        A student having an appointment with a doctor or dentist during school hours must present a note to the Main Office prior to 1st period.  This note must include the date, time and reason for wanting an early excuse and be signed by parent or guardian. Emergencies are the exception.  Before leaving and upon returning, the student must sign in and out in the Main Office.  No student will be excused for running errands, haircuts, personal non-educational lessons, etc.  Leaving for any of the stated reasons is a violation of the Pennsylvania        Compulsory Attendance Laws and may be subject to disciplinary action.

 

 

POD Lockers

       

All students will be assigned a locker at the north end of their respective POD area.  These lockers are divided into two separate compartments.  One compartment is for storing coats, hats or other outer clothing.  The other compartment is for books, paper and writing supplies. THINGS OF PERSONAL VALUE SHOULD NOT BE STORED IN THESE AREAS.

 

  IN ACCORDANCE WITH OUR LOCKER SEARCH POLICY, ALL LOCKERS ARE PROPERTY OF THE SELINSGROVE AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT.  STUDENTS SHOULD HAVE “NO EXPECTATION OF PRIVACY” IN ANY SCHOOL LOCKER

 

        The administration has the right to inspect or search any locker at any time.

        Students are permitted to go to their lockers three times a day:

1.  When they go to the locker area in the morning to secure their materials for their A.M. classes.

2.  At mid-day when they switch to the afternoon classes and secure their materials for the P.M. classes.

3.  At dismissal time.

 

        The only other times a student might have to go to the locker area are if they are coming to school after the day has begun, if they are to be excused from school early, or if the teacher has granted special permission.

 

Locks for POD Lockers

        The locks for student lockers will be placed on lockers prior to the start of the year.  The following procedures should be reviewed with your students:

 

1.  The locks will be distributed free of charge.

2.  Locks cannot be returned, they must remain on  

     lockers.

3.      Only school provided locks can be

      used.  All others will be removed from

      lockers.

4.      Students should not give out their

      combination to other students.         

5.   At the end of the year lockers will be checked for 

      locks.  Provided the lock is in good working order,  

      students will not be charged.  If a lock is missing

      or is inoperable, the student will be charged

      $4.00.  

 

The school is not responsible for any items stolen out of their locker

 

Backpacks

         Due to the concern for student safety, backpacks may not be used during the day to carry books and materials to and from classes in or out of POD.  They may be used to transport material to and from the home.  Backpacks will be kept in the locker area during the day.

 

Cafeteria Procedures

       

Students will have a 4-digit number to access their lunch accounts.

        The cafeteria is a place where students can get together during the day to socialize with each other. So that everyone can enjoy this area, appropriate behavior must be maintained:

  *Students may purchase a school lunch, or bring an individual packed lunch.

  NO DELIVERIES WILL BE ACCEPTED.

   *All students must eat lunch in the    cafeteria. NO   FOOD      MAY BE TAKEN FROM THE CAFETERIA.

*Pupils are to refrain from loud talking and pushing when in the lunch line.

*All students will enter the cafeteria and be seated before getting into the lunch line.

*Students will be dismissed by tables to go into the lunch line.

*Students are reminded to observe the Quiet Zone upon entering the serving lines.

*Appropriate table manners are expected.

*Students are to remain seated at their tables until dismissed by the teacher on duty.

 

Assemblies

         During assemblies, students are expected to follow all school guidelines. When going to and from the assembly, students are to proceed in an orderly manner.  Students should enter and be seated as quietly and quickly as possible.  It is expected that students will show respect for all persons involved with the assembly.  Anyone who does not follow these guidelines will be asked to leave the assembly and may not be permitted to attend future presentations.

 

Health Suite and Nurse

       

The school nurse supports the educational process by promoting wellness and providing care for acute illness and injury.  The school health program provides for assessment and evaluation of health care needs by performing health screenings annually.  Height, weight, and vision are performed on every student every year.  Hearing is evaluated on Grade 7 students and those with suspected or identified hearing deficits.  Scoliosis (observing the spine for curvature) is performed on Grades 6 and 7.  Any unusual findings are reported to parents/guardians for treatment/evaluation by your healthcare provider.

        The Pennsylvania School Code requires all Grade 6 students to have physical examination and Grade 7 students to have a dental examination.  The physical exam can be completed at any time during 5^th or 6^th grade by your private physician.  The dental exam can be completed at any time during 6^th or 7^th grade by your private dentist.  It is best to have your private healthcare provider perform these exams as they know your child best, but both physical and dental examinations are offered once yearly at school.  Prior permission needs to be submitted before the contracted school dentist or doctor will examine your child.  Physical and dental exam forms may be obtained from the school nurse or at the information center outside the main office.

        Barring signs of obvious symptoms of illness, the school nurse presumes that if the child is sent to school, the parent considers him or her well enough to attend.  The American Academy of Pediatrics offers three general guidelines on when to keep kids home from school:   fever,  the child is not well enough to participate in class,  or  you think he/she may be contagious.  Parents with concerns over whether to send their child to school can always contact the school nurse with questions or concerns.

        Students requiring medical attention should get permission from their teacher to go to the nurse’s suite.  If a student is unable to return to class, he or she will be sent home.  It is very important for parents to keep emergency contact information updated and current in the event your child needs to be picked up from school.  If the nurse is absent from the health suite, students should seek help at the main office.

 

Medications

            Although the school district strongly recommends that medications be given in the home, it realizes that the health of some children requires that they receive medication while at school.  To insure the safety of your child, special guidelines MUST be followed:

1.       Parents and/or the physician should confer with the school nurse.                                 

2.       An approval/request form must be completed and returned to the school nurse.  This must be signed by the parent and/or physician.

3.       The medication must be brought to school in the original, properly labeled pharmaceutical dispenser.

4.       For the protection of all students, upon  arrival at school ALL MEDICATIONS  MUST BE REGISTERED AND MUST REMAIN IN THE NURSE’S OFFICE.

This includes all non-prescription

medication.

5.    Whenever non-prescription medication is to be given during school hours, the parent must write a note stating name of medication, why it must be given during school hours, and exact dosage and time it is to be administered. It is the student’s responsibility to report to the nurse’s office at the appropriate time.  If you have any questions,  please feel free to contact the school nurse.

         

Dress and Personal Appearance

            

           It is the policy of the school to encourage students to be neat and clean in both dress and personal appearance.  Extremes in wearing apparel and general appearance will be discouraged.  Pants should be worn in an appropriate manner and shirts should be worn in such a manner that midriffs are not exposed.  The wearing of shorts is permitted, however they must be of such a length so as to be modest in appearance.  Cut off, spandex jogging shorts, and cut off skirts or dresses are not permitted.  School clothing should be free of vulgar, obscene, profane, sexually suggestive lettering, advertisements for tobacco, drug and/or alcohol products, and writing across the backside of shorts or pants.  Foot apparel must be worn at all times.  Students are not permitted to wear coats, jackets, or other “outerwear” in school.  Fleeces or warm up jackets are permitted.  Hats, scarves, bandanas, and other items deemed as “headwear” are prohibited.

          Clarifications:  Skirts and skorts should reach tip of middle finger when standing in a relaxed stance.  Shorts should be lower than thumb when standing in a relaxed stance.  Shirts should cover midriff and must have an  overlap of an inch when seated appropriately.  Pants should be at the waist line and should not show under garments.

          On first offense, students will be given a chance to change inappropriate clothing or face disciplinary action.  All subsequent offenses will involved disciplinary action.

 

Leaving Class

          Student sign-out sheets are in the student handbook.  Students must have a teacher initial their sign out sheet in order to leave class. Students found out of class without their signed handbook will be referred to the office. Students are restricted to 60 sign outs per marking period.

 

Telephones

     With the prior permission of the teacher in charge, the phone in the clerical office is available for students to use for school-related business. Students must also ask permission from the Main office to use this phone.  This phone is for student use only during the following times:

-   A.M. lobby (until 8:10 a.m.)

-   Lunch (with permission)

-  At the end of the school day with permission  

    (3:10 p.m.)

  *Cell phones are not to be used during school hours.

    There is a pay phone in the lobby for after-school use.

Textbooks

          All textbooks, equipment and materials used by the students are the property of SAMS.  They must be kept in good condition.  Any abuse of textbooks and/or equipment will not be tolerated.  Students found damaging school material will be required to pay for replacement or repair in addition to disciplinary action.

 

Lost and Found

          Lost and found is located in the Main Office. Found items will be kept at the Main Office and every attempt possible will be made to get them back to the owner.  After two weeks, unclaimed items of little monetary value will be placed on the Lost and Found table in the lobby.   Students may claim items they recognize as belonging to them from the Lost and Found table in the  lobby or the bin in the Main Office.

 

Parental Visitation in School

          It is hoped that parents can find time to visit school during the school year.  The teachers and administration welcome parents who are willing to make appointments.  A better education can result from a closer cooperation between the home and the school.  Conferences with teachers can be arranged for after dismissal or at certain times during school hours when teachers are available.  Call the guidance office at ext. 2230 to schedule conferences.  All persons visiting the middle school must sign in at the main office.

 

Visiting Friends

          Students are not permitted to bring visitors to school at any time.

 

Fundraising

          Students are not permitted to sell during school except for the benefit of the Middle School.  The administration approves of selling of

 certain items that benefit the entire student body at certain times during the year (e.g. pictures, magazines, candy).

Dances

          There are several dances held throughout the school year. These dances are limited to Selinsgrove Area Middle School students only.  Dates and times will be announced.  As with any school function, students are expected to follow SAMS policies and guidelines.  Failure to do so may result in losing your privilege to attend these functions.  Students who are absent the day of the dance will not be allowed to attend the dance unless receiving prior approval from the administration .

 

ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Reporting And Grading

           

Report cards are issued four times during the school year.  In addition to report cards, students will receive Progress Reports which are to be reviewed by parents.

            Parent/teacher conferences may be requested by parents or teachers throughout the school year if a student is having academic difficulty.

            Final report cards will be mailed home after the last day of school.

 

System of Grading

 

  The following grading system will be used:

              90-100 – Outstanding Achievement

              80-89 - High Achievement

              70-79 – Satisfactory Achievement

              60-69 – Minimal Achievement

              59 - Below - Failure

              I - Incomplete

            Regarding the Middle School Honor Roll and Academic Awards, students who earn a Grade Point Average (GPA) of 85-93 will achieve the Honor Roll.  Students who earn 94-100 GPA will achieve High Honors. Academic Awards will include all grades earned during the first 3 MPs and up to the 4^th MP progress report. Please note, students who have a grade below 80 percent in any class will not be considered for any Honor Roll regardless of the overall GPA.

                                   

Promotion Policy

           

The policy of the Selinsgrove Area Middle School is to promote the concept of success in learning.  With this philosophy in mind, students who have received an F as a final grade in two or more full time subjects, or its equivalent, will be considered for retention by a committee of the child’s teachers and guidance counselor.  A finalized listing of the pupils recommended for retention will be submitted to the administration for consideration.  State Law requires the final decision pertaining to retention to be the responsibility of the principal.

        A statement of explanation will be prepared for each child being recommended for retention by the child’s team teachers.  Likewise, in the event a student is administratively promoted after being recommended for retention; a statement explaining the circumstances that justify this promotion will be prepared by the principal.  A copy of these statements will be sent to the parents of each child recommended for retention.  A second copy will be placed in that pupil’s permanent record folder.

        It is not to be assumed that an individual will automatically pass to the next grade level after spending two unsuccessful years at the same grade.  Nor is it to be assumed that an individual will be promoted solely on the basis of chronological age.  The subsequent team assignment for students being retained will be recommended by the former team teachers.

        Students who wish to make up courses failed during the regular school year may do so through a summer tutorial program.  Participants of a summer tutorial program must observe the following requirements in order to receive official credit for their efforts:

1. The tutor must be a certified teacher.

2.Tutors and tutorial programs must be approved by the Middle School Principal before instruction begins.

3. Thirty (30) class hours of instruction will be necessary for each  subject requiring tutoring.

4.A notarized statement indicating the successful completion of thirty (30) hours of instruction, along with the final grade recommendation, must be submitted to the Middle School Principal by the tutor at the conclusion of the instruction period.  This statement must be received no later than one week prior to the date school is scheduled to open in the fall.

5. The school will provide, on a loan  basis, the necessary textbook material as requested by the tutor.  The tutor will be responsible for the return of these materials.

6.Securing a qualified tutor and compensation of the tutorial services will be the responsibility of the student and parents.

 

Library

       

A professional librarian and a library aide will be available to assist students in the use of the library.  The library will be open  during the school day for the students’ convenience when they are not scheduled for class instruction.

        Books may be borrowed from the Library for a period of twelve school days.  Overdue fines will be 5 cents per school day. Students will receive three written late notices before any disciplinary action is taken.  Lost books will cost the borrower the replacement price.  The amount paid will be refunded should the lost book be found before the last day of the school year in which it was paid. Students who fail to satisfy their library obligations will be assigned detention. In addition, students who have library obligations (fines and/or overdue books, magazines, etc.) may be restricted from attendance at school functions.

 

Middle School Bands

                          

Three grade level bands are offered at the middle school.  Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is mandatory.  The bands perform at two concerts a year.  Failure to attend evening performances without an excused absence will result in an unsatisfactory grade.  Students must understand that once the school year starts, they are committed to the instrumental program for one school year.  Students will not be permitted to drop band past the first six-day cycle.  Mrs. Amy R. Kenny, Director of Instrumental Music, may be reached at 372-2267.

 

Middle School Choruses

                           The vocal music program in the middle school is open to all boys and girls at the beginning of the school year.  There will be a separate chorus for each grade level. Attendance at all rehearsals and performances is mandatory. 

                 Chorus is a graded, elective subject that meets for the entire school year.  While students are encouraged to remain in chorus for the entire school year, they are given a six-day cycle at the beginning of the school year and following the winter concert at which time they may drop chorus without being penalized.  Students who drop chorus at any other time will receive an unsatisfactory grade.  Failure to attend evening performances without an excused absence will result in an unsatisfactory grade.  Mr. Robert N. Whitmoyer and Mrs. Sherry L. Barben, Choral Directors, may be reached at 372-2267.

 

Physical Education

                          

                           State law requires that all students participate in the physical education program.  For this, they must have a change of clothing and sneakers.  Any student who does not have a change of clothing and sneakers for four classes will be assigned a detention. Pupils who may be excused or restricted from participation for medical reasons in the regular classes shall submit a written statement to that effect from a physician to the Middle School Office or Physical Education teacher.

 

          Gym Lockers

                             Students will be assigned a locker in the shower area of the Physical Education Room.  These lockers are equipped with combination locks and items of personal value may be kept secure while students are participating in Physical Education classes.  The gym locker room will be open during lobby time in the morning for students to store their gym clothes.  Students are not allowed to carry gym bags out of POD during the day.  The school is not responsible for lost or stolen property.  Gym lockers are subject to the same guidelines as POD lockers.

 

              Speech And Language Support

                             The Selinsgrove Area School District provides speech and language screening, evaluation, and therapy by the Pennsylvania Department of Education certified Speech and Language Clinician for students demonstrating needs in the areas of articulation, language, fluency and voice disorders.

                           To determine possible speech/language disorders, an informal speech and language screening will be conducted for students newly enrolled in the district, for all students in fourth grade, and for students attending Kindergarten Registration.  Parent and teacher written referrals can also be made to the Speech/ Language Clinician or Instructional Support Team at anytime.  If the results of this screening indicate a possible speech/language disorder, parents will be contacted by the Speech/Language Clinician to obtain permission for a formal evaluation.

 

              Mathematics Support

                                                          TITLE I

                         Students who are identified as needing extra help in math skills are assigned to participate in the math lab in the middle school.  The lab is staffed by a qualified professional who is assisted by a tutor.  They provide additional practice and reinforcement of basic skills in a small group setting. Initial identification of qualifying students is based on teacher recommendation at the end of the school year.  Testing at the start of the school year will be used to confirm student placement.

        Any student who qualifies will be enrolled in the math lab .   Parents/ guardians choosing not to allow their child to participate should indicate in writing, directing the note to the lab teacher.  Interested parents/guardians who have a child enrolled in the TITLE I program are also invited to become involved with the Parent Advisory Committee (PAC).

 

 

SERVICES, PROGRAMS

 AND ACTIVITIES

 

          The teachers, guidance counselors, and principals at the Selinsgrove Area Middle School are ready to help you with any problem.  A variety of services are available both within the school system and in the community for students who are having physical, educational, or emotional problems.

 

Student Assistance Committee

        The STUDENT ASSISTANCE COMMITTEE (SAC) is a team of people trained to help students experiencing school related

problems in the area of drug, alcohol, and suicide.  The Middle School SAC members are:

Instructional Support  Team

        The Instructional Support Team (IST) has been established to offer assistance to those students who are experiencing academic difficulty. Teachers or parents refer the student to the team.  The IST will collectively  develop strategies to assist the student achieve success in the classroom.

 

Parent / Teacher Conferences

        The staff at SAMS encourages the use of parent/teacher conferences as a way of  helping parents to become involved in their child’s education.  Conferences can be scheduled by contacting the guidance office and setting up an appointment.

 

Child Abuse Reporting Policy

        The Pennsylvania Child Protective Service Law (C.P.S.L.) requires all school personnel to report suspected child abuse. The law also requires school officials to cooperate with the agencies in investigations of any child abuse allegation.  It is the Selinsgrove Area School District’s policy to comply with the C.P.S.L. to the best of its ability.

 

Counseling Program

        The middle school counselors are available to assist students with their educational, vocational or personal concerns. The counselors are located in the administrative office area.  Counselors are available to meet with Parent/Guardians on an individual basis. Call the guidance secretary 372-2256, to    schedule these meetings.The most important role of a counselor is to help students learn how to help themselves.  This can be achieved through a variety of services offered by the counseling staff:

1.  Individual Counseling - Sessions are arranged in a personal             and confidential manner. Referrals may be initiated by student, staff, parent/ guardian, or counselor.

2.  Small Group Counseling - These groups are designed for     students who have experienced or are experiencing various problems and concerns in their lives.  Possible group issues are study skills, changing families, loss, peer pressure, getting along with parents/ siblings, stress management, careers. Each group of 10-12 students is co-facilitated by school counselors and other trained staff members. Each member      can discuss their feelings and gain support from their peers     in a safe, non-judgmental, and confidential environment.  The goal is to help students develop positive strategies to cope with their concerns.  A permission form is given to a student when they are invited or seek to become a group member.

3. Information - regarding careers, training programs, colleges, course selections, etc., is provided to students.

4.  Appraisal - The counselor helps both student and parents to better understand each individual’s abilities, interests, and needs.

5.  Orientation – The counselor aids the incoming student to understand and accept the many facets of a new school environment.

 

Mediation

        Teachers and counselors are available to help students resolve conflicts with other students through mediation. Students desiring mediation may pick up request forms in the library or in the guidance office.  Completed forms are to be placed in the envelope marked Mediation in the guidance office.  Students will be called to the main office at the end of the school day to receive the mediation time and location.  Mediations occur before classes begin or during study halls.

 

Bulletins And News Items

        In order that parents may be informed of school events, bulletins will be issued throughout the school year and sent home with the pupils.  Newspapers and local radio stations will carry school items of interest.  Information about Middle School activities can be accessed through the Information Hotline at 372-2224.

 

School Related Activities

        All students must be in attendance during the school day to be eligible to participate or attend after school hours events.  Only a bona fide doctors’ excuse or extraordinary circumstances will be considered by the principal in waiving this policy.  This includes all sporting events, stage performances, dances (please note that middle school students are only eligible to attend middle school dances) and any school related events held on school property or where the school is represented.

 

Movies, Filmstrips, Video Tapes

        Films and videotapes are used as part of the educational experience for students.  At times these films are rated PG (Parental Guidance).  Any parent or guardian who does not want his/her child to view PG-rated films should submit a request in writing at the beginning of the school year.  An alternate activity will be provided for the student.

        If a film should be rated PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned), written notification will be sent home with the student prior to the movie.  Parents may then request in writing that their child not view the film or videotape.  An alternate activity will be provided for the student.

 

Athletic Program

        The Interscholastic Athletic Program for 7th and 8th grade boys and girls will consist of the following:

Cheerleading             Grades 7 and 8

Football                     Grade 8

Wrestling                   Grades 7 and 8

Basketball                  Grades 7 and 8

Field Hockey             Grades 7 and 8

Soccer                      Grades 7 and 8

        A student activity fee of $25.00 will be assessed to each Middle School and High School student who participates in any inter-scholastic sport.  A student is required to pay the activity fee only once each academic year, regardless of the number of sports in which he/she may participate.  The full amount of the fee will be waived for any student who has qualified for and been approved by the Director of Food Service for free or reduced lunch in the current year (previous year for fall sports commencing prior to the opening of school).  Due to confidentiality considerations, it is the responsibility of the Athletic Director to administer the collection of the fee and maintain accurate records.  No student may begin practice or participate in any sport or activity prior to the payment of the fee.  There will be no refunds of the fee regardless of the level or length of student participation except for students who do not pass required physical examinations or students who are cut from sports by coaches.  Students who pay the $25.00 Activity Fee are eligible to receive an Athletic Pass to attend all home sports events.  Any student may purchase an Athletic Pass for $25.00.

Student Council

        The role of the Student Council in the Selinsgrove Area Middle School is to promote leadership, service, and character through school activities and a variety of charitable drives during the school year.

        The Student Council is comprised of 3 elected students from each team and 5 SGL’s or Student Government Leaders.  Advisors to the council are Mrs. Lester and Mrs. Gulick.

        Because the students are elected by their classmates to serve as leaders for their team their behavior and conduct should “lead by positive example” to everyone at the middle school.  If a representative or leader serves more than one lunch detention or one after-school detention they will be suspended from their duties on Student Council for a period of one month.  If they serve more they will be removed for the year.

 

BUS TRANSPORTATION

 

It’s The Law

Amending Title 18 (Crimes and Offenses) of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, providing for the offense of unauthorized school bus entry.

SS17. Unauthorized school bus entry.

(a)  Offense defined – A person who enters a school bus without prior authorization of the driver or a school official with intent to commit a crime or disrupt or interfere with the driver or a person who enters a school bus without prior authorization of the driver or a school bus official who refuses to disembark after being ordered to do so by the driver commits a misdemeanor of the third degree.

   For further information contact your local State Police or the Selinsgrove Area School District.

 

Transportation Video Monitoring

        The Board recognizes that serious misconduct on board a bus jeopardizes the safety of all passengers and that the limited use of video monitoring will help ensure safety by serving as a deterrent to serious behavior.

        Buses are now equipped with audio/video camera capability.  Bus conduct reports will continue to be the primary tool for reporting misconduct. 

        At any given time, your child’s bus may be recording the activity on the bus.  In certain instances, this tape could be used to clarify information and/or help with investigations of bus misconduct.  There is a posted decal on the buses indicating that audio/video recording may be used at any time. 

 

Rules and Regulations

1.  For those students living in bus riding areas, the school        district will provide transportation to and from the student’s assigned loading/unloading zone to the school they attend. 

2. All students who are assigned to ride a school bus will be assigned a seat on the bus and are expected to sit in that seat every day.   

3. Requests for temporary changes in loading/unloading zones will be considered for students to be transported to locations other than their assigned loading/unloading zone and the following must be met:

Requests must be submitted by the parent or legal guardian of the student on the form provided by the school district and received by the Transportation Coordinator at least TWO SCHOOL DAYS prior to the time change in transportation service is to take place.

 

Request To Use a Different Bus Route

The change must be able to be provided by using established school bus/vehicle routes at no additional mileage to the school bus/vehicle.  The school bus/vehicle must have available seating capacity for additional students.  The requested loading and/or unloading zone for the student does not have to be at the same location, but the student must use the same bus/vehicle for transportation to and from school.

 

Family Emergencies Or Parents Out Of Town

        Requests will only be considered if unassigned seats are available. Approval of requests will be considered for a minimum of three (3) consecutive school days.

 

Working Parent (s) Or Custody Orders

 

        Requests will only be considered if unassigned seats are available.  Individuals making the request will be expected to present a regularly assigned work schedule or custody order.  The request must involve a consistent and regular change for the entire year.

        Approved changes will remain in effect for the school year unless documentation of a change in status is provided at least two (2) days in advance of a new request.

 

Request To Use The Same Bus

        Requests for changes of loading and/or unloading zones within the same bus/vehicle route will be considered for one instructional activity per week or for circumstances such as family emergencies, working parents or parents being out of town.  Approval of requests will be considered for one day or a set weekly schedule, not on an arbitrary basis.  If these conditions are met, the Transportation Coordinator, at his/her discretion may temporarily approve the change, but the request shall be presented to the Board of Directors at their next regularly  scheduled monthly meeting for approval.

 

Student Bus Pass

        Bus rider requests to use another bus on a temporary basis will be accepted three (3) days prior to the requested date by the requesting child’s parent or guardian, as well as the party receiving the child.  The written request must include:  (1) the name of the student making the request, (2) bus number which they are requesting to ride (3) the name of the party where the child is going, and (4) the reason for the request.  The pass will not be accepted or approved for sleepovers, parties, social events, etc.  It is the parent’s responsibility to provide other means of transportation for social events.

        Students requesting to load or unload at a stop other than their assigned stop, even on their regular bus, must also request a Student Bus Pass through a note or letter for this to occur.

        A minimum amount of passes will be approved each school year.  Any abuse of requests for bus passes will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the principal or assistant principal of the requesting child’s school.

        A request will only be considered if there are unassigned seats available.  Bus drivers will not accept notes for any changes.  The student must turn in their written requests at their respective buildings to obtain a bus pass.

 

School Bus Discipline Plan

        The Selinsgrove Area School District and the school bus drivers have initiated a “School Bus Discipline Plan”.  Parents are urged to support the school in an effort to transport students to and from school in a safe manner.  When a student chooses to disrupt the bus, he/she is jeopardizing the safety of the other students and disciplinary actions will take place.

        When a problem is reported, a determination will be made by the school administrator concerning the extent to which a student is involved.  Once this is determined, action will be taken. What follows is only a guideline.  As with any discipline issue, the administration has the option to deal with each situation as deemed appropriate. In addition to bus action, in school consequences may be applied to bus situations.

 

A Minimum Of The Following Will Occur For Each Reported Violation:

 

1ST REPORTED VIOLATION - The student will be sent to the principal and a follow-up letter will be sent to the parents. Depending on the severity of the violation, appropriate consequences will be applied. The student and the administrator will review behavior expectations for riding the bus.

 

2ND REPORTED VIOLATION - The student will be sent to the principal and a follow-up letter will be sent to the parents.  Depending on the severity of the violation, appropriate consequences will be applied. A letter to parents will indicate that continued violations will result in the suspension of bus riding privileges.

 

3RD (and subsequent) REPORTED VIOLATION(s)  - The student will be sent to the principal for disciplinary action.  Parents will be notified if bus riding privileges are to be suspended, and for how long.  If a student is suspended from the bus, parents will be responsible for providing transportation to and from school.  A parent and/or child conference will take place prior to resuming the riding of the bus.

 

SEVERE CLAUSE - Suspension of bus riding privileges.

 

THE PRINCIPAL MAY, AT HIS/HER DISCRETION, SUSPEND BUS RIDING

PRIVILEGES AT ANY TIME FOR

SAFETY  VIOLATIONS  !!!!

CONTINUED VIOLATIONS - Continued violations will mean additional suspensions which may lead to permanent suspension from bus riding privileges for the school year.

 

 

“DON’T LOSE YOUR RIDING PRIVILEGE

FOLLOW THESE RULES ”

1.     Observe same conduct as in the classroom.

2.     Be courteous; use no profane language.

3.      Do not eat or drink on the bus.

4.      Keep the bus clean.

5.      Cooperate with the driver.

6.      Do not smoke.

7.      Do not be destructive.

8.      Stay in your assigned seat.

9.      Keep head, hands and feet inside the bus.

10.  Bus driver is authorized to assign seats.

        Bus drivers are to enforce the rules listed above.  The rules are posted in all school buses, and students are required to follow the rules.

All students are required to be at their assigned loading zone five (5) minutes before the designated loading time.  Bus drivers are not required to wait if students are not at the loading zone at the time designated on the published schedule for bus routes.  Buses arriving late will make every effort to notify students of their arrival.

        Water, water guns, water containers or any potentially dangerous devices (e.g. firecrackers, caps, knives, guns, etc.) are not permitted in school or on school buses/vehicles.

        Walkman and handheld video games may be permitted, providing they cannot be heard and do not disturb others.

        The Board of Directors may take any action necessary to provide a safe transportation system including the temporary suspension or revocation of bus riding privileges.

 

ADDITIONAL  INFORMATION FOR PARENTS AND STUDENTS

 

Change of Address

        If a student plans to move from the district, the school shall be notified in advance of his departure so that transfer cards may be prepared and given to him/her.  It is extremely important that the school office be notified promptly if any change of address should occur, regardless of how short a distance the new address may be from the old.

 

Student Withdrawal From School

        When it becomes necessary to withdraw a student from school during the course of the regular school year, the student or parent should inform the guidance office personnel after which the student will be given a form to be completed by all his/her teachers.  When all teachers have signed this form (which verifies that the student has turned in all books, library books, and has cleared obligations), the form should then be returned to the guidance office personnel.  All final withdrawal forms are to be officially signed for release from the Principal’s office.  Also, if possible, the parents should sign a Release of Records form so that the records of the student leaving can be forwarded immediately upon request from the new school.

 

Student Records Policy

            It is a well-established educational practice for schools to gather, organize and use information concerning each pupil within its system.  These records are maintained to meet legal requirements and to structure an orderly system of information which can be very useful to the pupil and his parents in making choices for educational and vocational planning.

            Parents of students or eligible students have the right to inspect and review the education records of the student in accordance with the district’s policies and guidelines and state and federal laws which govern student records.  The adopted policy is available for review upon request from the Elementary School Office, Intermediate School Office, Middle School Office and High School Office.

            Parents of eligible students will be asked to submit in writing requests to review records.  Contact your child’s guidance counselor to submit this request.

 

Non-Discriminatory Policy

        The Selinsgrove Area School District continues its policy on non-discrimination on the basis of sex in compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972 in all activities and programs under its sponsorship.  In addition, the District administers all actions without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, age or handicap as defined by law.  These policies apply to application for employment and all other personnel actions with the District.  Students, parents, employees, applicants for admission and applicants for employment who have complaints or inquiries about Title IX should contact the Business Manager at the Selinsgrove Area School District Office.  Telephone, (570) 374-1144.

 

SAMS RULES AND REGULATIONS

 

Discipline