Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle School

Center for the Talented and Gifted

A Title I School

Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle School holds to a “Tradition of Excellence”.

Expectations are high for me, the staff and ALL students. As the stakes get

higher and accountability increases, it is our desire to prepare our students for

success!

My Mission – Through hard work and rigorous learning, we will help each

student be his/her best

My Vision - to be a “World Class” school

We will always strive to succeed

We will be the masters of our futures

My Goal – Each student, every day, will SOAR:

Spirit - have pride in our school and enthusiasm for learning

Optimism - seek positive solutions and expect the best

Achievement - work hard to accomplish our goals as we increase academic rigor

Respect - show kindness toward others

My Commitments:

Ensure the safety and well-being of all students

Ensure academic achievement of all students

Ensure that each student develops a sense of “Grit”, and the

perseverance to be successful on long-term goals Ensure all children are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the 21st century and are prepared to

be successful in high school

My Focus - Provide students with a well-balanced education centered on academic achievement and

personal growth in all areas, social, physical and academic.

Principal, Dr. Nathan Shaker

Pa u l L a u r e n c e D u n b a r

M i d d l e S c h o o l

PLDMS Administration

The administration at PLDMS works as a cohesive team with parents, teachers and students. Our

goal is to provide a safe environment for all students to learn, support our teachers through

continued training for professional growth, and assist all students to reach their highest

potential. We enjoy working with students and helping them become successful in Middle School

as well as preparing them for High School. Our Administrative team holds a wealth of knowledge

in Curriculum, Behavior, Discipline, Gifted and Exceptional

Student Education. We look forward to learning new things

every day and to many more years in which we work with

students.

Pa u l L a u r e n c e D u n b a r

M i d d l e S c h o o l s ta f f

The Paul Laurence Dunbar staff is comprised of a group

of dedicated instructors working in the profession of

education to better the lives of young people they

encounter. Our staff is a mixture of veteran teachers

that have taught students around the world as well as

new teachers brimming with enthusiasm and a passion

for education. Using the latest scientifically-based

practices, including technology-based instruction, our

staff presents a high level of rigor to challenge every

student academically. In addition to academic

development, our staff is active within the lives of our

students by serving as athletic coaches, sponsors,

mentors, and participants in charitable organizations

that impact the lives of students. While our focus is on

academic development, social development is fostered by our staff as they demonstrate understanding,

compassion, dignity and professionalism.

“We are in this together to ensure that every learner reach his/her highest potential.”

Together We Soar

Among the PLDMS staff, we have:

Over 400 years combined teaching experience

Golden Apple Recipient

Golden Apple Finalist

3 Teachers of Distinction

5 Teachers of the Year

Counselor of the Year

10 Certified Gifted Endorsed Teachers

10 Certified ESE K-12 Endorsed Teachers

18 Certified ESOL Endorsed Teachers

36 Teachers with advanced degrees

Talented and Gifted

Program

What is TAG? The Talented and Gifted Program at PLDMS, an Academically Challenging Curriculum to Enhance

Learning (ACCEL) system, combines students with Gifted eligibility through their Educational Plan (EP)

and students identified as “Talented” through an application process that occurs before entering 6th

grade. Gifted students are automatically enrolled in the TAG program. Through the TAG

program, students can earn high school credits while in Middle School including Algebra,

Geometry, and Spanish, as well as, Technology certifications.

Application Process Incoming 6th Graders earning a level 4 or higher on both Reading and Math standardized tests are prime

candidates for TAG, and are strongly encouraged to apply. Student standardized test scores, as well as

math and writing assessments, are reviewed by our Leadership team for acceptance into the program.

At times, through Elementary School recommendation, Level 3 students may be eligible to enter. Talk to

an administrator for more details. Gifted students do not need to apply for TAG.

Academics in TAG

English Language Arts, Science, and Social Studies teachers in the TAG program are Gifted certified,

and use some of the most innovative and creative methods available to educators. TAG students

participate in Science Fair in 6th through 8th grade and History Fair in 7th and 8th grade. TAG students

choose exploratory and enrichment courses from all offerings, and are encouraged to participate in the

Arts, Technology and Robotics programs.

Fast Track Math

In addition to the TAG classes, Gifted and Talented students are eligible to test for Fast Track Math – a

rigorous math program in which students are taking math classes above grade level. This math sequence

is taught by a math teacher who “loops” with students for three years. ALL Students are required to

take a math placement assessment to determine readiness for Fast Track Math.

Minimum Requirements to stay in the TAG Program Students in TAG are held to the highest standard. Students must maintain a quarterly “B” average in

each of these highly-rigorous academic classes. Students not achieving the standard may be placed on a

probationary status. Fluctuation in FSA performance from year-to-year will be handled on an individual

basis.

All TAG students agree to sign a “TAG Contract” that includes requirements for academic, attendance, and

behavioral excellence. A quarterly review of information related to the expectations may result in probation, or

removal from the program.

Fast Track 6th Grade 7th Grade 8th Grade

Math 2 Adv Algebra 1 Geometry

So me th in g fo r Eve r yo ne

TAG (Talented and Gifted) students will be

offered a curriculum that is both rigorous and

enriching. Our program has a proven twenty

year record of academic performance that

surpasses most and is recognized for preparing

students exceptionally well for upper level high

school coursework and beyond. Students in this

program typically score at the top of both

district and national standardized tests.

Standard students are enrolled in a

comprehensive curriculum receiving grade level

instruction and expectations in all core academic

classes. The rigorous curriculum prepares

students each year, to meet high school

requirements that await them upon completion

of 8th grade.

Exceptional Student

Education students are enrolled in a wide range

of curriculum courses that meet their individual

needs. Our program is an inclusive program

serving a diverse population of students’ needs.

We have a continuum of services ranging from

full inclusion to self contained, and intensive

support.

Curriculum Programs

Chromebooks for All Students

What is a Chromebook?

A Chromebook is a personal computer that runs

Chrome as an operating system. The device is made

to connect quickly to the Internet and supports apps

that are on the web, not ones that are downloaded

to the device.

Who gets a Chromebook?

Every student in 6th-8th grade student checks out their

very own Chromebook, much like they check out

their very own textbook through the library. The

students are responsible for carrying it back and forth

to school each day, making sure it is fully charged on

a daily basis, and treating it with tender love and care.

How do Chromebooks support learning in the

classroom?

Students will use their Chromebooks on a daily basis

in all classes. Collaboration, communication, and

technology are some of the most important 21st

Century skills that we can teach our young students.

Through the Chromebooks, which utilize Google

Chrome, Docs, Slides, Forms, etc., students will have

access to each period’s work and documents through

the Google Classroom. The students will be able to

email their teachers, work on their assignments, take

assessments, and keep up to date with the most

important events going on in their classrooms.

Reading is a priority at Paul Laurence Dunbar

Middle School. Throughout the year we

participate in a school wide

reading initiative as well as

offer opportunities for a

variety of reading

competitions and challenges.

Additionally, our students

will participate in the Battle of the Books

Competition. All Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle

Schools students will participate in the One

Book One School reading program.

Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle School

recognizes that students have a variety of

learning needs and abilities.

At PLDMS we offer classes

ranging from intensive

reading to gifted reading.

E n g l i s h La n guage A r t s

M a t h

PLDMS offers a variety of math

courses such as

Intensive Math,

Standard Math,

Advanced Math,

Pre-Algebra,

Honors Algebra I

and Geometry. Intensive math is

provided for students who score

below proficiency on their

previous year State Assessment

Math test. Intensive and

Standard math students meet

daily to develop skills in areas of

weakness, as well as develop

new skills to address their grade

level specific standards.

Advanced and Honors Math

courses provide rigorous

Our Rigorous Core

Curriculum

Additionally we offer reading support classes for

students who might be on the cusp of reaching new

levels in reading achievement. The curriculum

resources utilized across the district include

National Geographic Inside, Houghton Mifflin

Harcourt Collections, and the Achieve 3000

progress monitoring computer-based program,

Teen Biz. We also have a rich selection of novels at

students’ fingertips to meet all of

our students’ interests. With the

addition of Chromebooks at the

Middle School Level, students have

unlimited resources available to

them at their figure tips.

Our English Language Arts classes focus on writing

for a variety of purposes. In addition, students

analyze literature and discover different writing

techniques to use in their own writing.

Furthermore, writing is embedded into all content

areas. Students have the opportunity to participate

in various events such as Local, State, and National

Essay contests, The Aspiring Authors Competition,

Poetry Contests, and The Scripps Spelling Bee.

instruction in the

standards, as well as prepare

students to be successful in high

school and college level

courses. Geometry is offered as

an elective course for any

student who has completed

grade level required math

courses and would like to seek

high school credit while in

middle school. Algebra I

Honors also offers high school

credit.

Our teachers instruct all

students at high levels preparing

students to be critical thinkers

and independent problem

solvers. Students are always

challenged to do their best while

they correlate the relevance of

mathematics to our ever-changing

world of technology.

PLDMS also has an award winning

Math Team which

currently meets

every Tuesday after

school to sharpen

their skills necessary

to compete at

various competitions

at the county or regional levels.

PLDMS Algebra I students

compete annually at the FGCU

Invitational Mathematics

Competition.

The 6th Grade curriculum

focuses on the rise of

ancient civilizations and their

technological advances. Early

civilizations arose in

southwest Asia, Africa and

Mesoamerica. The people of these civilizations

learned to farm, and developed systems of

government, writing, and religion.

The 7th grade curriculum focuses on civics, the

rights and duties of citizens. Much of the course

is taught using primary source documents such

at the Declaration of Independence, The Bill of

Rights, Thomas Paine’s

Common Sense, and others,

which allow us to see the

ideas that shaped our

government.

So c i a l S tu d ie s

Sc ie nc e

The Science

Department at

PLDMS has a

reputation in our

community for

graduating students who are well

prepared to be successful in

their high school programs.

The Science Department at

PLDMS follows the academic

plan established by the school

district. This is a comprehensive

program which has each grade

level learning Physical Science,

Life Science, and Earth/Space

Science.

The 6th grade curriculum

includes the following areas: The

Nature of Science, Weathering,

Our Rigorous Core

Curriculum

The 8th grade curriculum studies United States

history. By examining our country’s past, students

gain insight into the ideas and events that influence

our present. Learning about our nation’s past

provides perspective on

what it means to be an

American today. Primary

documents and interactive

activities are used.

In addition, we offer

History Fair, an extracurricular competition

sponsored by the National History Day Foundation.

Over the past several years we have had numerous

students earn their way to the state competition

with their spectacular projects. More information

about the History Fair can be found by visiting:

www.nhd.org/contest.htm

Erosion, Energy in Earth’s

Systems, Weather and Climate,

Energy, Motion and Forces, The

Cell, Human Body Systems,

Immunity, Disease and

Disorders. Through technology

and hands on inquiry, students

are engaged in their learning.

The 7th grade curriculum will

cover topics ranging from

waves, heat, ecology, human

impact on Earth, Earth

landforms, Earth’s history,

evolution, genetics, and

The 8th grade curriculum covers

matter, the cycling of matter,

solar system, galaxies, the

universe, stars and planets, and

bridge to high

school biology.

Science Fair

Projects

Each year, students

have the

opportunity to

complete a science

fair project for

entry in our December PLDMS

Science Fair. Science fair projects

help students meet several of the

grade level expectations as well

as benchmarks for the Sunshine

State Standards in Science.

Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle School offers a wide range of

programs that provide services for students with varying

exceptionalities. Students are placed in classes to meet needs based on their individualized educational

plan while meeting course and credit requirements for middle school. At PLDMS we recognize the

middle school experience as a transitional time for students. In conjunction with a highly experienced

and diversified ESE teaching staff that utilizes the latest technological and direct instructional methods

for academics, life and social skills are at the forefront for each student. A focus on independent

function and social skills through community based instruction and hands on/real world activities helps

prepare our students for high school and beyond. Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle School maintains high

expectations for all of our students. To foster student achievement, we maintain an environment of

understanding, compassion and integrity as we work together; staff, student and family to meet the

needs and goals for each student.

E x c e p t io na l Ed uc a t io n P rogr a ms

Support Programs to

Meet all students needs

ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) Program The ESOL Program at PLDMS is comprised of two components: The first being,

Content–Based Instruction which focuses on academic language. All instruction is

delivered in English with clarification in student’s primary language when possi-

ble. Academic English is taught through reading, language arts, math, science, and

social studies classes. Paul Laurence Dunbar Academic teachers include a strong

English language development component within their classroom setting as well as

academic support through their ESOL Support class. The second component being

English as a Second Language course which focuses on learning social English through formal language

lessons in cooperation with the Rosetta Stone programs as well as basic English reading and writing

skills via the Inside Fundamentals curriculum for beginners during ESOL Language Arts courses .

LUYW (Light Up Your World)

Light Up Your World® (LUYW) is an organization dedicated to empowering

young people to be positive and effective world changers,

giving them the tools they need to be able to live success-

fully in every area of their lives. LUYW gets to the heart of the troubling issues

school leaders are facing in their students (bullying, low self‐esteem, depression,

anger/rage, complacency). Although we cannot stop these false, destructive messag-

es from being sent in our world, we can give students the power to discern the

messages they are receiving. By the end of the final session in LUYW, the students

will have a personal plan of action to begin changing their world immediately.

Like a visit to the chiropractor, LUYW gives the students an alignment that causes

them to feel better in the moment but, then, also allows them to experience the

benefits of the alignment for the future. We are setting them up for success in

every area of their life for today and for their future

Support Programs to

Meet all students needs

A Peer Mediation Program offers

mediation as an option for

resolving conflicts within the school community.

Peer Mediation is a program that is designed to

promote cooperative and equitable

relationships among adolescents. The process

of peer mediation is designed to help students

learn how to:

Defuse conflict, manage anger, and

communicate

Share their feelings in a positive,

structured way

Listen to other people’s feelings

Self-sufficiently cope with their own

problems

Peer Mediation helps

students learn

communication skills that

are relevant to their lives

both in and out of the

classroom. It also prepares

students to achieve at higher levels so that they

can become life long learners. The program

helps the school create a caring and intellectual

climate with supportive relationships

throughout the school. It also allows students

to feel as if they are taking part in the school to

help create a safe and healthy environment for

all the students in the school.

The Six RULES of Mediation:

1. Be respectful

2. Be willing to solve the problem

3. Tell the truth

4. Listen without interrupting

5. Take responsibility for carrying out the

agreement

6. Keep the situation confidential

Why Peer Mediation?

1. By including peer mediation into the school

environment we are encouraging an environment

of communication and respect. This allows the

teacher to have more

time to teach and less

time dealing with

student conflicts.

2. Peer Mediation is

an alternative that

seeks solutions,

consequently allowing students to ree up their

minds and fully engage in learning.

3. Peers can show students how easy it can be to

fix minor problems and how with compromise

and understanding, even large problems can be

worked though.

4. The students need to know they are growing

up and becoming more independent. This is a life-

long lesson that is necessary for students to learn

before they enter high school. The "in-between"

adult and child years are difficult to overcome.

Society is putting pressure on the students to

"grow up" but at the same time they do not give

them the opportunities to learn how to take

responsibility and become an adult. Peer

mediation gives them a chance to learn how to

take ownership of their problems and how to

solve them.

EILEEN CHERBINI, MA, LMHC

SCHOOL COUNSELOR

PROGRAM COORDINATOR

(239) 334-1357

EIILEENC@LEESCHOOLS.NET

“CANNOT BE KEPT BY FORCE.

IT CAN ONLY BE ACHIEVED BY

UNDERSTANDING”.

PEER MEDIATION

We are focused on preparing our students to access and utilize technology of the 21st

century. PLDMS 6th grade students begin their technology journey by completing Business Keyboarding & Career Exploration - In this course, students learn to type

with proper technique, reasonable speed, and accuracy. Students are introduced to the many careers and career clusters that will allow them to make informed choices beyond high

school. This course increases self-awareness and helps develop the skills needed to successfully plan for postsecondary education and/or the workplace.

Computer Applications 1 & 2 - This course enables students use a variety of technological applications to expand their knowledge and acquire real-world skills that prepare them for their educational career and/or the workplace. Both courses focus on Key Applications, Computing Essentials and Living Online.

Computing for College and Career -This course is for technologically advanced students who are interested in preparing for the Microsoft Office certification bundle which includes PowerPoint, Word, and

Outlook in high school. Fundamental for Web and Software Development - The purpose of this course is to assist students in

making informed decisions regarding their future academic and occupational goals and to provide information regarding careers in the Information Technology career cluster. The content includes but is not limited to

foundational knowledge and skills related to web and software development in the information technology industry.

Tec h no log y

R o bo t i c s

Robotics is a highly motivating and engaging way to build and strengthen other academic areas

such as science, mathematics, engineering, and communications. Students learn by hands-on

exploration, including designing, building, programming, and testing their creations. Students use

the popular LEGO robotic kits to build small-scale robots. All programming is created using

LEGO programming software and transferred to the robot. The Robotics classroom focuses on

open-ended challenges, troubleshooting, and project management to develop

solutions. Additionally, students get the extra benefit of enhancing their computer skills.

Exploratory Courses

Band classes are for students at all levels of performance ability, no experience necessary! 6th

grade students start in Beginning Band where they will choose an instrument to study for the

entire school year. Second and third year players participate in the Concert, Wind Ensemble

and/or Jazz Bands, depending on ability. Band students will perform in concerts throughout the

school year at PLDMS and other venues. PLDMS bands participate in the Florida Bandmasters Associa-

tion annual rating festivals and regularly earn Superior ratings for their performances. PLDMS students

consistently earn seats in the prestigious All County Band ensemble and, each year, students from our

band program are selected to participate in a Florida All-State Middle School Band.

B an d

Students participating in T.V. Production produce and star in Eagle Eye News, our daily

news show. A typical show format includes news from the community, school news,

weather, and sports. Daily features include student art, vocabulary, and positive thoughts.

Students rotate through each production and on-camera position for a hands-on

experience in T.V. journalism and media arts.

T. V. P ro d uc t io n

Our Visual Arts program is designed to help everyone gain a creative edge! Art students develop right

brain abilities to visualize and imagine through artistic, critical-thinking exercises and

projects. Techniques are taught through a variety of media, including drawing, painting,

sculpture, ceramics, illustration and graphic design. Student artwork is exhibited on

campus, on the school news, in local public venues, and on the Web. Art students who

plan to attend Cypress Lake Center for the Arts for high school are given guidance in

preparing for auditions. Our students are consistent award winners in competitions. Be

sure to visit our website gallery at www.artsonia.com. Enter Paul Laurence Dunbar

V is u a l A r t s

D r am a Theatre is a wonderful experience for those with experience or those who are just

curious. For most, this is a student’s first exposure to theatre. With a single course in our

program a student will gain fundamental skills and knowledge that will help them

understand what it takes to make it in theatre. Higher levels expose students to classical

works from all time periods, culminating in one-act, full length, and musical

performances! Students qualifying to be inducted in our chapter of Jr. International Thespian Society can

experience the thrill of going to festivals where they receive feedback from professionals and the

opportunity to attend workshops on various theatre topics. Last year, PLDMS won Best in Show for

Ensemble Acting and was able to bring the entire troupe the State! This year we continued our success

by winning Best in Show for Ensemble Acting! Our theatre program will definitely impact your child in

middle school and beyond.

Exploratory Courses

Our Physical Education program is one of the most comprehensive in the county. Students

are challenged to be their best physically, mentally, and socially throughout the year. Health

and wellness topics are integrated within the physical education curriculum. We are partic-

ularly proud of our state of the art climbing wall and our rigorous district-sponsored fitness

program.

Yearbook, in a nutshell, is a student run business. Being in Yearbook allows stu-

dents expansive experience in photography, computer design, personnel manage-

ment, money management, advertising experience, and writing creativity that come

together to form a book that captures the spirit and emotion of Paul Laurence

Dunbar Middle School.

Students can earn high school credit while gaining cultural awareness in our Foreign Lan-

guage Program. The Spanish language comes alive through a technology-focused curricu-

lum and a variety of modalities including dance, drama, music, games, PowerPoint, and mul-

timedia presentations. Students will attend culinary and karaoke events and have opportu-

nities to perform in district language competitions and Multicultural Day.

Spanish

P hys i c a l E d uc a t io n

Extracurricular

activities and sports

Student Council The PLDMS Student Council is a representative group of 6th - 8th grade stu-

dents who meet regularly and share in the life of the school. The purpose of

Student Council is to provide a venue for students to talk about real prob-

lems, discuss possible solutions, and help plan, organize, and implement ide-

as for the continuous improvement of the school. Representatives are

elected from each Social Studies class in the school and meet several times

a month with their classes. This allows each representative to gather a vari-

ety of student perspectives when issues arise throughout the year.

National Junior Honor Society Membership is both an honor and a responsibility. It is open to all students who choose to apply

themselves and consequently meet the criteria established in the five goal areas of character, schol-

arship, leadership, service, and citizenship. Members are involved throughout the year in activities

such as school fundraisers, coordinating canned food drives, and organizing school dances to en-

hance school spirit.

Super Study Super Study Sessions are offered during our After School Programs. These ses-

sions are designed to assist any student who would like academic support out-

side of the regular school day. Additionally, these sessions reinforce good study

habits and organization.

Intramurals/Extramurals

Intramurals are an opportunity for students to gain exposure to ath-

letics, develop social skills, and meet new people at school. Intramu-

rals are open to all students at PLDMS. Extramural competitive

teams are chosen by the coaching staff and compete against middle

schools across the county. Each activity has a separate boys and girls

team, except Golf, which is co-ed. In each sport, 6th, 7th, and 8th

grade students compete together, except Track, which is separated

by grade level competition. We offer Basketball, Volleyball, Cross

Country, Golf, Tennis, Track & Field, and Soccer.

Activities / Clubs Include:

Art Club, Battle of the Books, Drama Club, Eagles Nest (Spirit Club), Fellowship of Christian Athletes,

Intramural Sports, Math Team, National Junior Honor Society, Student Council, Super Study, Chess

Club, Peer Mediation, Student Mentor, Game Club, MineCraft Club, and Junior Cadet’s:

Below is a description of some of our clubs/organizations.

2015 District Champions

Field trips at Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle School are offered in every grade level and give students an

end of the year opportunity to spend time with their friends away from the school setting. Whether

you’re in 6th, 7th or 8th grade, every student has an end of the year field trip memory to share. These

are the experiences that truly allow every student to enjoy their time here at PLDMS.

Q u a r t e r l y P e p R a l l i e s

Extracurricular

activities and sports

G r a d e L e v e l F i e l d T r i p s

Each Quarter we have a Pep Rally to celebrate our students achievements.

We celebrate students for both academic achievements like Quarter Honor

Roll, Perfect Attendance, and winning various achievement awards in academic competitions such as

Science Fair, History Fair, Battle of the Books, Math Team, and Essay competitions. We also celebrate

our students that have received awards in Thespians, Band, Art, and Fitness. Finally we also like to

recognize our students for their athletic abilities and achievements. Pep Rallies are a great way for

students to show their school spirit and to celebrate their achievements in many areas!

S c h o o l D a n c e s

School dances are held quarterly after school and are more fun than you can “shake

your tail feather” at. Students love dances because they give them the opportunity to

have fun with their friends and enjoy the fantastic atmosphere that is Paul Laurence

Dunbar Middle School.

The Cadet Program is operated by the School Resource Officer and the Youth Services

Division of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. Each Cadet will have a clear understanding and

commitment of the Cadet Program as it pertains to school involvement, safety patrol and

overall strong character building process for the future. The Program introduces each Cadet to essential

education on drugs, violence, gangs, crime prevention/intervention, dealing with bullying, peer pressure/

conflict as well as responsibility.

M a t h Te a m

C a d e t C l u b

PLDMS Math team is an award winning team of students who meet each week and solve challenging

advanced level math problems that enrich learning and personal development. Students compete for

team and individual awards against 20 other middle schools from across the Southwest Florida Region.

Our librarian, Mrs. Villaverde, hosts an informal group of avid video gamers almost every morning in the

Media Center. Up to 40 gamers participate in collaborative play and competitive problem solving, while

other students take advantage of the open Media Center to check out books or complete homework

projects

M i n e c r a f t C l u b

Parent Involvement

Hello! My name is Johan Charlery and I am the Parent Involvement Specialist at Paul

Laurence Dunbar Middle School. The Title I Parent Involvement program for parents is meant to offer parents training on ways to work with their children at home to improve

student success in school. Research shows that students with parents that are actively involved in their child's school are more likely to excel in school activities and succeed at

higher levels academically than those whose parents were less involved. The Florida DOE's Title I Parent Involvement includes parents, schools, families, and communities working

together to create meaningful partnerships that can only lead to increased student achievement, beginning in elementary and on into the college years.

In addition Lee County School Social Workers serve as the link between home, school, and community. As

members of the educational team, school social workers provide an array of specialized services. Our goal is to promote daily school attendance with a positive attitude towards learning.

We can meet with you and your student one on one to discuss behavior, mental health, problems at home,

and anything else that may be preventing academic achievement. Your school social worker can also help you identify your child’s individual needs, how to best meet them to ensure success at school as well as help you navigate community resources. We want to maximize your child’s educational opportunities, build their self-

esteem and help them to develop a positive work ethic and decision making skills so that they may grow up to be well educated and productive. As school social workers, we address any and all barriers to achieving

success in the educational environment with the understanding that factors such as family culture, socioeconomic status, physical, and mental health can influence a student’s performance.

Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle School believes in inviting parents to take a role

in their child's education. This can be accomplished in many ways: PTSA and PTSA sponsored activities, parent/teacher communication, volunteering,

school website, emails and Infinite.

You are invited to be a part of Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle School’s School Advisory Council (SAC) Committee. Through your participation in the SAC team, you will be a part of receiving information from the

district, making decisions that will help our school, and working together to ensure all students reach their highest potential. Meetings are held regularly throughout the school year and typically contain several important items, including reviewing the previous meeting’s minutes, updating and monitoring the SAC budget,

receiving updates of District committee meetings such as District Advisory Council (DAC) and the Finance Committee, developing and monitoring the School Improvement Goals, and discussing policies and

procedures of the school. These are very important tasks and we welcome the input and participation of all on this committee.

Parents are a critical component in student achievement. Parent involvement can increase students’ achievement significantly, more than teachers or the school. It is important for parents to be involved at their

child’s school. Parents can get involved in a number of ways: Be involved with educational decisions that affect your child's education, attend parent workshops provided by the school and attend school events. Check for

homework to be completed daily and talk to your child about what they are learning in school. Join the School Advisory Council (SAC) and/or Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) and be a part of making important

decisions at the school.

Student Advisory Council

Parents as Partners in Students’ Learning

We believe parent involvement in middle school is critical. Student achievement is a joint

effort from home and school, Together We Soar! We encourage parents to get involved

in PLDMS through Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA), School Advisory Council

(SAC), District Advisory Council (DAC) and volunteering to help with various events going

on within the school culture. Parents can also volunteer to help in the classroom, work in

the school store, help with the book fairs, dances, Eagle Celebrations, and much more.

Pa re n ts a re im po r t a n t to us !

M a ny Ave nue s fo r Pa ren t Co m mu nic a t io n

Communication between home and school is essential.

PLDMS provides many opportunities for

communication throughout the school year and

encourages family support and assistance. The list that

follows identifies some of the tools and methods we

use for communication.

E-mail is a very effective form of communication

for teachers, families, and students. E-mail

addresses for staff members can be found on our

school’s website (http://dun.leeschools.net).

Interim reports are printed and sent home with

students twice per quarter on dates established by

the Lee County School District. Parents are

expected to sign & return interim reports.

Parents and teachers may request a conference

to address academic and/or behavioral concerns.

Conferences can be scheduled by contacting

individual teachers or grade-level team leaders.

ParentLink facilitates communication between

home and school. the ParentLink system, Web

Address: http://parentlink.leeschools.net. Access

student grades, assignments, attendance records,

and cafeteria balances via this web-based system.

Detailed instructions for accessing this powerful

tool can be found on the main page of the

ParentLink website. Weekly emails to the parent

with updates of grades.

Focus.leeschools.net to access current grades

Report cards are distributed at the conclusion of

each academic quarter on designated report card

dates as determined by the Lee County School

District.

Newsletters are produced four times a year and

include information regarding special events and

other important information. They are available

on the website and sent via ParentLink

Parent communication

The school website at Paul Laurence Dunbar

Middle School maintains an up to date listing of

events and important information for parents to

access. Our website can be found at http://

dun.leeschools.net. This site is updated regularly

with information about the school, staff,

upcoming events, and links to school district

information.

The Student Handbook serves as a

communication tool between school and home

and contains important information for students

and parents. In an effort to strengthen the home-

school connection and teach students to be

responsible, students are expected to record all

classwork, homework, and announcements daily.

Parents should read and review the handbook on

a nightly basis.

Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle is an educational

institution that prides itself on protecting the

futures most precious resource, your children.

To assist the administration in doing that, the Lee

County Sheriff’s Office has given us an on duty

Student Resource Officer (SRO).

We here at PLDMS have a zero tolerance for

anyone who violates this philosophy in regards to

fighting, bullying, gang related activities and

disrupting the day to day functions of the learning

Le e Co u n ty S he r i f f De p a r tme n t Wo rks w i th PL DM S

Po s i t i ve B e h av io r S u p po r t

PLDMS encourages a positive

environment which supports all

students’ quests to achieve Spirit,

Optimism, Achievement, and

Respect. Our school is proud to

offer PBS as a positive and effective

supplement to traditional methods of discipline.

Data shows that we are achieving our goals

through our newly developed mentoring program,

our positive reward system, and behavior

education. In support of our emphasis upon

strong Character Education, we utilize “Light Up

Your World” strategies to help students

recognize their self-worth and show them how

their actions and choices can have a positive or

Safe School

environment. To accomplish this Paul Laurence

Dunbar Middle strictly follows the code of

conduct. The SRO also provides professional

development information to the administration

and staff in regards to bullying and recent gang

trends.

In a proactive way, we take the time to discuss

with your children the advantages of good

decision making verses poor decision making and

the consequences in both.

negative impact on others. Students and staff are

challenged each day to “SOAR” by showing Spirit,

Optimism, Achievement and Respect.

Eagle Celebrations are held once a quarter and

highlight those students who make positive and

productive choices to make Paul Laurence Dunbar

Middle School a better place. These celebrations

are a positive behavior reward for students who

have shown the underlining mission of Spirit,

Optimism, Achievement and Respect. This is a

great way for students to feel

rewarded for making the right

choice.

Pottorf’s Haven is a program that offers before and after school care for students. Hours of

operation are from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., year round. If your child(ren) attend the before and after

school program he/she will enjoy supervised homework time, tutoring, arts and crafts, drama,

individual/team sports, computer time with educational programs, cooperative learning activities, and

playground time.

We also provide daycare on non-school days including a summer program. Field trips include going to

movies, swimming, skating, bowling, and Lakes Park. On a daily basis we provide educational activities

relating to reading. Students will also be exposed to guest speakers and presentations during day care

hours.

Information for our Non-school days and Summer Program will be available in advance to allow for

planning. Pottorf’s Haven (239) 274-3932 , Ms. Lisa Silsby

Before and After School Care

How many classes do students take at PLDMS?

Students are currently scheduled for eight classes, attending four each Blue and White

day and all classes on Red days, on a modified block schedule.

How are students placed into different levels of academic classes?

We use Exceptional Student Education IEPs, Gifted EPs, standardized test scores like

the State Assesment, and grades in a holistic fashion to place students in the most appropriate levels of

classes. We have a vast array of classes for students with severe disabilities, to students who need

remediation due to deficiencies in State Standards, all the way to students who need advanced and

gifted experiences.

What are the basic classes all students must take?

Each student must have five basic classes each year at PLDMS: Reading, Language Arts, Math, Science,

and Social Studies. Career Education is required once during middle school. Physical Education is

required yearly with exceptions available to students who need remedial classes or whose parents ask

for waivers. Students who score at or below certain levels on Reading and/or Math are required to

have remediation in those areas.

How do students let the school know what exploratory classes they would like to take?

Each year current students and their parents are involved in expressing their

preferences for the following year’s Exploratory Classes. New students are

sent information in the mail during the spring and summer. Those students

and their parents are asked to respond to this information by indicating their

preferences in writing and by attending an evening computerized registration

event. All efforts are made to provide the preferred classes.

How do students receive their schedules for the first day of school?

New Student Orientation will be held the week before school starts. At that time new students may

pick up tentative schedules and travel around the building and meet their teachers. On the first day of

school, official schedules are distributed to students upon their arrival. We ask 6th graders to come

to the cafeteria for their schedules. 7th graders are asked to report to the Media Center so that we

may ensure that all of the immunization

requirements have been met before students

receive their schedules. 8th graders find their names

on class lists near their classrooms and go directly

to their 1st period classes. Lots of adults are

around the building to ensure that students are

assisted to their 1st period classes where lots of

important information will be shared for students to

carry home.

Frequently asked Questions

about Classes

Dress Code

The purpose of having a dress code is to encourage students to focus on the learning process without the distractions of unsuitable dress

and grooming. Research has shown that there is a connection between student dress and student behavior. Students shall maintain a clean,

orderly appearance at all times.

The PLDMS dress code is consistent with the dress code guidelines listed in the Student Code of Conduct, Grade 6-12. Individual schools

also have the authority to establish additional requirements. We believe our dress code provides guidance to help students make reasonable

choices, addresses issues of safety, and supports and enhances a positive environment where learning is a priority.

Students must be in compliance with dress code upon entering school grounds, during after-school events, and at all times while on cam-

pus. The responsibility for the personal appearance of the student rests with the parent and/or guardian. Repeated, purposeful violations of

the PLDMS dress code will be dealt with in accordance with the guidelines established in the Student Code of Conduct, Grade 6-12, and

may, upon issuance of a contract of agreement and understanding, be considered violations of Insubordination/Disrespect.

For the 2016-2017 school year, the following information establishes the minimum acceptable standards for student dress to be

interpreted and enforced by the administration and staff at Paul Laurence Dunbar Middle School. The Dress Code for 2016-2017

may be adjusted if needed to align with District Policy.

TOPS

Must be a polo-style, collared shirt with sleeves and buttons.

Must fit modestly; not too loose or too tight.

Must fit loosely enough so that all buttons can be closed; back,

chest and stomach areas must be fully covered.

Must be tucked in at waist at all times. Shirts too short to remain

tucked in are not permitted.

Collared shirts should not be covered by any other clothing other

than those listed under Cold Weather Wear.

“Spirit Gear”, or any clothing bearing the PLDMS logo and/or

representing participation in a school-wide group or activi-

ty may be worn in place of a collared shirt. Spirit Gear

must fit appropriately and be tucked in at the waist.

Sheer tops are not permitted at any time.

BOTTOMS

Only khaki, Docker-style or jean pants and shorts are permitted.

Sweatpants, drawstring pants/shorts, joggers, athletic shorts, leg-

gings/jeggings, etc. NOT permitted.

Must be worn at the natural waistline and properly fastened.

Excessively baggy pants and shorts are NOT permitted. A belt

must be worn if pants or shorts are loose fitting. Students

asked repeatedly to correct ill-fitting pants may be required to

wear a belt daily.

Undergarments must not be visible at any time.

Shorts and skirts must be adequate in coverage and length – no

more than 3 inches above the knee. Slits above the knee are

not permitted.

Bottoms that are ripped or torn are NOT appropriate for school.

Leggings are ONLY permitted beneath skirts/shorts; however

skirts/shorts must be adequate in length as stated above

DRESSES

Must be collared with sleeves.

Must be adequate in coverage and length:

Chest, back and stomach areas must be fully covered.

No more than 3 inches above the knee.

Must fit modestly, not too loose or too tight.

SHOES Must be worn at all times.

Backless shoes, flip-flops, bedroom slippers, beach sandals, heels

more than 2” high, or any other footwear considered unsafe are

NOT appropriate for school.

COLD WEATHER WEAR

Pull-over hoodies are NOT permitted at any time.

All jackets, cardigans, or sweatshirts must have a zippered or

buttoned front, which is left open during school hours so that

the tucked shirt and pants can be seen.

Modest fitting pull-over sweatshirts and sweaters may be worn

over appropriate collared shirt as long as the collar remains

visible.

HEADWEAR / HAIR

The wearing of hats, hoods, caps, bandannas, grooming combs,

headgear, or sunglasses, except in conjunction with author-

ized athletic practices or activities, is prohibited. There may

be certain exceptions for medical conditions (with a doctor’s

note) and when physical education classes are held outside.

Hair is to be neat and well-groomed.

Hairstyles or hair colors that are distracting, an unnatural color,

or become disruptive to the learning environment are not

allowed.

MISCELLANEOUS

Articles of clothing, jewelry, or adornments that could likely

cause injury–such as chains, bracelets, rings, chokers with or

without spikes, or studs–are prohibited. Wallet chains of any

length are prohibited.

Apparel, emblems, insignias, badges, or symbols that promote

the use of alcohol, drugs, tobacco, violence or any other

illegal activity are prohibited.

Clothing with slogans or advertising which, by its controversial

or obscene nature, disrupts the educational setting is prohib-

ited.

Apparel or symbols which may be gang-related may not be dis-

played on a student, or on any item belonging to a student, at

any time while on school property. Such symbols may be

designated by administration, the school’s Resource Officer

or a law enforcement authority.

Adornments, either attached or pierced to exposed body parts

other than the ears, are prohibited. Drawing on one’s self or other with ink, Sharpie marker, etc. is

not permitted.

DRESS CODE CONTRACT

Students with multiple dress code infractions or a history of docu-

mented dress code violations may be placed on a Dress Code

Contract, and may be subject to disciplinary action under the

Code of Conduct criteria for Insubordination/Disrespect.

Steven K. Teuber - Chairman, District 4

Mary Fischer Vice - Chairman, District 1

Jeanne S. Dozier - District 2

Cathleen O’Daniel - Morgan District 3

Pamela H. LaRiviere - District 5

Gregory K. Adkins, Ed. D. - Superintendent

Paul Laurence

Dunbar Middle School 4750 Winkler Avenue

Fort Myers, Florida 33966

Phone: (239) 334-1357

Fax: (239) 334-7633

Website: dun.leeschools.net