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Petal Middle School

2015-2016

Student/Parent Handbook

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Foreword……….…………………………………….……………………………………………………4

Mission Statement….………………………………………………………………………………….5-6 Core Values

Petal School District……………………………………………………………………………………...7 Administration and Board of Trustees School District Calendar…………………………………………………………………………………8 Petal Middle School…………………………………………………………………………………..9-10 Administration and Dates to Remember Bell Schedule and Traffic Patterns……….…………………………………………………………...10

Message from Administration and Faculty.…….....………………………………………………....11

Visitor Information, Management Procedures and Trespass Warning Policy………..…………..12 Visitor Management Procedures Trespass Warning Policy

Trespass Letters………………………………………………………………………………...13 Crisis Management Petal School District Police Department

Student Appearance/Dress Code………..………………………………………………………..14-15

Course of Study…………………………………………...…………………………………………….15 Graduation Requirements

Requirements for Entrance and Classification in Petal Middle School………...…………………16 Residency Requirements Transfers from other Schools

Grading System...………….……………………………………………………………………….17-18 Explanation of Marks Progress Reports and Report Cards Cheating Retention Policy Testing

Subject Area Testing MDE Statewide Assessment Schedule………………………………………………………18

Guidance Services……….…………………………………………………………………………18-19 Parent – Teacher Conferences

Shared Decision Making Council……………………………………………………………...19

School Sponsored Activities…………….…………………………………………………………19-21 Athletic Policy Cheerleaders

Junior Beta Club………………………………………………………………………………...20 Science Olympiad Team History Club

Student Council………………………………………………………………………………....21

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Attendance Policy……….…………………………………………………………………………21-23 State Law

Perfect Attendance Tardy to School Tardy to Class…………………………………………………………………………………...22 Excused Absences Unexcused Absences Make-up Work…………………………………………………………………………………..23 Extracurricular Activities and Absences

Truancy Homework Assignments Dismissal from School

Discipline……………………………………………………………………………………………..24-31 Bus……………………………………………………………………………………………24-25 School Discipline Ladder……….………………………………………………………………26 Behaviors Referred to Principal’s Office……….……………………………………………..27 Alternative School………...…………………………………………………………………….28 Appeals Behavior on/off Campus

Bias Behavior Detention……………………………………………………………………………………..28-29 Disciplinary Conference………………………………………………………………………..29

Use/Possession of Drugs or Weapons Grievance Procedures Habitually Disruptive Students………………………………………………………………...30 In-School Suspension

Interrogations Peer Mediation/Conflict Management Searches Harassment/Bullying……………………………………………………………………………31

Emergency Procedures………..…………………………………………………………………...31-32

Cell Phone and Electronic Device Policy…….…..…………………………………………………..32

Miscellaneous………..………………………………………………………………………………….32 Courtesies in the Auditorium/Gym Daily Announcements…………………………………………………………………………..33 Fundraising

Illness or Injury Lockers Lost and Found Restrooms

School Property Signs in the Hall…………………………………………………………………………………34 Telephone Use by Student Media Information……….……………………………………………………………………………...34

General Information for Parents……….…………………...…………………………………………35

Child Nutrition Program……….……………………………………………………………………36-37

Network Usage Terms and Conditions……….……………………………………………………....38

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The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)………..………………………………..39 Asbestos Surveillance of all School Buildings

Student Health Services and Policies……….……………………………………………………40-41

Drop off and Pick-Up Procedures…………..…………………………………………………………42

Signature Page I………..……………………………………………………………………………….43

Bring Your Own Device Policy/Digital Code of Conduct Signature Page………………………...44

FOREWORD

The purpose of this handbook is to familiarize students, teachers and patrons with the regulations and organization of the Petal School District. We hope that this handbook will contribute to a better understanding and appreciation of our educational program. To ensure that the handbook has reached home and the parent is familiar with its content, there is a form at the end of this book to be signed and returned to the student’s teacher to be kept on file.

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PETAL SCHOOL DISTRICT MISSION AND CORE VALUES

The mission of the Petal School District is to empower all students with the attitudes, knowledge, and life-long learning skills essential to thrive as responsible citizens in an ever-

changing global society.

In February 1999, a group of Petal School District employees met with community members to begin development of a strategic plan for the next five years. This team of dedicated members identified a list of core values inherent in our schools. From these core values they formed the mission to guide the schools in preparing our students for the future as well as objectives for that mission. Over two hundred school and community members then worked in committees to create action plans to achieve our five strategies. Implementation of the first action plans began during the 2000-2001 school year. Each year the Strategic Planning Team meets to assess what has been accomplished during the year, reflect on lessons learned through the process, consider unanticipated circumstances, and adjust the plan and strategies if necessary. An update report is distributed to parents and the community each year.

Core Values of the Petal School District We believe that:

A person’s potential to learn is limitless.

All people have intrinsic worth.

Strength comes from engaging the full diversity of the community.

Teamwork is essential to the continuous success of an organization.

Family is the most important influence in the development of the individual.

People can direct their own future.

People are influenced more by what others do than by what they say.

Cornerstones of the Petal School District

We believe that student achievement grows through:

Professional Learning Communities

Data Driven Decision Making

Ongoing Formative Assessment

Strong Instructional Leadership

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ADMINISTR ATION

DR. MATTHEW L. DILLON, SUPERINTENDENT

DEDE SMITH, ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT

STEPHANIE BREW ER, ASSIST ANT SUPERINTENDENT

ANDY SCHOGGIN, CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

MARGARET T YNES, DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES/FEDERAL PROGRAMS

MICHAEL HOGAN, PRINCIPAL

ROBERT A. KNIGHT, ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL

DEBBIE FLYNT, GUIDANCE COUNSELOR AND REGISTRAR

KAYLEE WADE, BEHAVIOR COUNSELOR

PETAL SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD OF TRUSTEES

BRUCE MAGEE, CHAIRMAN

BOB HOPKINS, VICE CHAIRMAN

ANDRÉ HEATH, SECRETARY

LAURIE PORCIELLO

TROY WICKTOM

WILLIAM H. JONES, BOARD ATTORNEY

Petal Middle School 203 East Centra l Avenue

Petal, Mississippi 39465

School Office ……………………………. 601-584-6301

Guidance Office ……………………………. 601-582-0955

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PETAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

P.O. Drawer 523 Petal, MS 39465

(601)545-3002 Fax: (601)

Transportation Department: (601)583-4320

ADMINISTRATION

Matthew Dillon, Ph.D., Superintendent Andy Schoggin, Chief Operations Officer

Stephanie Brewer, Assistant Superintendent Dede Smith, Ph.D., Assistant Superintendent

Margaret Tynes, Director of Human Resources & Federal Programs Katie Charleville, Special Services Coordinator

William Wheat, Chief Financial Officer Danny Dillistone, Director of Child Nutrition

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Bruce Magee, Chairman Andre Heath, Vice Chairman

Troy Wicktom, Secretary Laurie Porciello

Bob Hopkins

The Petal School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, or age in the admission to and provision of educational programs, activities, and services or employment opportunities and benefits. The policy of the board of trustees forbids discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of sex. The board of trustees will not tolerate sexual harassment activity by any of its employees. This policy similarly applies to non-employee volunteers who work subject to the control of school authorities, and to students enrolled in Petal School District. The Petal School District is a tobacco free environment. The use of tobacco on campus is not allowed.

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PETAL SCHOOL DISTRICT 2015-2016 CALENDAR

August 3 First Day for Teachers August 6 First Day of School – Students Begin September 7 Labor Day Holiday September10 First Nine Weeks Progress Reports October 8 First Nine Weeks Ends October 12*-13* Fall Holidays October 13* Teachers return– Students do not attend October 15 First Nine Weeks Report Cards November 12 Second Nine Weeks Progress Reports November 23-27 Thanksgiving Holidays December 18 Second Nine Weeks Ends (60% Day) December 21-January 1 Christmas Holidays January 4 Teachers return – Students do not attend January 5 Students Return to School January 7 Second Nine Weeks Report Cards January 18 Martin Luther King Holiday February 11 Third Nine Weeks Progress Reports February 15* Presidents Day Holiday March 9 Third Nine Weeks Ends March 14-18 Spring Break Holidays March 24 Third Nine Weeks Report Cards March 25-28* Easter/ Good Friday Holiday March 28 Teachers return– Students do not attend March 29 Students Return to School April 21 Fourth Nine Weeks Progress Reports May 19 Graduation May 23 60% Day – Last Day of School May 23 Fourth Nine Weeks Ends (Report Cards will be mailed) May 24 Last Day for Teachers

Potential Make Up Days October 12, 2015 October 13, 2015

February 15, 2016 March 28, 2016

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PETAL MIDDLE SCHOOL 203 East Central Avenue

Petal, MS 39465 (601)584-6301

Fax: (601)584-4716 Cafeteria: (601)584-6568

ADMINISTRATION

Michael Hogan, Principal Robert Knight, Assistant Principal

Debbie Flynt, Counselor Kaylee Wade, Counselor

Alice Garner, Cafeteria Manager

DATES TO REMEMBER

August 27 7

th & 8

th Grade Football @ Columbia 5 & 6:30 pm

August 31 Parent Information Night 6:00pm September 3 7

th & 8

th Grade Football vs. Waynesboro @ Home 5 & 6:30pm

September 5 Volleyball Middle School Tri @ Oak Grove TBA September 9 Shared Decision Making Committee Meeting @12:00pm September 10 7

th & 8

th Grade Football vs. Hattiesburg @ Home 5 & 6:30pm

September 15 School Pictures September 17 7

th & 8

th Grade Football vs. Collins @ Home 5 & 6:30pm

September 24 7th Grade Football vs. Sacred Heart @ Home 5pm

September 24 8th Grade Football @ Dixie 6:30pm

October 1 7th & 8

th Grade Football vs. Oak Grove @ Home 5 & 6:30pm

October 5 7th & 8

th Grade Football @ Laurel 5 & 6:30pm

October 5-9 Fall Book Fair October 6 PMS Volleyball vs. Columbia @ Home 5pm October 7 Shared Decision Making Committee Meeting @12:00pm October 8 Football - Open October 15 7

th & 8

th Football @ Laurel 5 and 6:30pm

October 19-20 Basketball Invitational Tournament @ PMS October 22-23 Basketball Invitational Tournament @ PMS October 27 Chanticleer & Chevalier Fall Concert November 3 Spark Fall Showcase November 11 Shared Decision Making Committee Meeting @12:00pm November 12 Basketball @ Earl Travillion 4:30pm November 16 Basketball vs. South Jones @ PHS 4:30pm November 30 Basketball @ PCS 4:30pm December 3 Basketball vs. NR Burger @ HHS 4:30pm December 7 Winter Band Concert @ PPAC December 7 Basketball @ South Jones 4:30pm December 8 Winter Band Concert @ PPAC December 9 Shared Decision Making Committee Meeting @12:00pm December 10 Basketball @ Oak Grove 4:30pm December 12 Spark Christmas Café December 14 Basketball @ Collins 4:30pm December 15 Chanticleer & Chevalier Christmas Concert December 18 Early Release Day 60% Janurary 7 SEMBDA Honor Band Auditions @ JCJC Januray 7 Basketball vs. Dixie @ Home 4:30pm January 13 Shared Decision Making Committee Meeting @12:00pm January 14 Basketball vs. Laurel @ Home 4:30pm January 21 Basketball vs. Collins @ Home 4:30pm January 22 Spark Competition Jackson Prep @ Jackson January 25-29 Spring Book Fair January 29 Spark Competition South Jones Invitational @ Ellisville January 29-30 SEMBDA Honor Band Clinic JCJC Fine Arts Building

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February 5 Spark Competition MS Show Choir Contest @ Poplarville February 10 Shared Decision Making Committee Meeting @12:00pm February 12 Spark Competition Opelika Invitational @ Opelika February 19 Spark Competition West Jones Invitational @ Laurel February 26 Spark Host Choir Petal Invitational March 9 Shared Decision Making Committee Meeting @12:00pm March 31-April 2 MS Junior High Honor Choir April 6 State Band Evaluations @ PPAC April 13 Shared Decision Making Committee Meeting @12:00pm April 21 Band Spring Concert @ PPAC April 26 Chanticleer & Chevalier Spring Choral Concert April 27-28 Spark Auditions May 2 Spark Banquet May 23 Early Release Day 60%

TBA-Chanticleer & Chevalier State Choral Festival

Athletic schedules are correct at time of print; however, times and dates are subject to change.

BELL SCHEDULE

Regular Bell Schedule 8th

Grade Regular Bell Schedule 7th

Grade

7:55 ..................... Cafeteria Open for Breakfast 8:00-8:30 .............................. Morning Detention 8:15 ................ Band Hall Open for Instruments 8:30 ........................ Building Open for Students 8:35-9:23 ......................................... First Period 9:27-10:15 ................................. Second Period 10:19-11:07 ....................................Third Period 11:11:11:59 ................................ Fourth Period 12:03-1:19 ......................... (Lunch) Fifth Period 1:23-2:11 ........................................ Sixth Period 2:15-3:03 .................................. Seventh Period 3:07-3:55 ......................................Eighth Period

7:55 ..................... Cafeteria Open for Breakfast 8:00-8:30 .............................. Morning Detention 8:15 ................. Band Hall Open for Instruments 8:30 ........................ Building Open for Students 8:35-9:23 ......................................... First Period 9:27-10:15 .................................. Second Period 10:19-11:07 .................................... Third Period 11:11-12:27 .................... (Lunch) Fourth Period 12:31-1:19 ....................................... Fifth Period 1:23-2:11 ........................................ Sixth Period 2:15-3:03 ................................... Seventh Period 3:07-3:55 ...................................... Eighth Period

Early Release Schedule is 8:35 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Students are not to be on Campus before 7:50 a.m. or after 4:15 p.m.

TRAFFIC PATTERNS

ALL AUTOMOBILE TRAFFIC IS TO LOAD / UNLOAD IN THE FRONT OF THE CAMPUS.

THE GYM AND REAR AREAS OF THE SCHOOL ARE RESERVED FOR BUS TRAFFIC ONLY.

ALL PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC CROSSING CENTRAL AVENUE IS TO CROSS WITH THE CROSSING GUARD BETWEEN THE CENTRAL OFFICE AND THE OLD SIXTH GRADE BUILDING.

ALL PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC MUST CROSS AT DESIGNATED CROSSWALKS.

ALL SCHOOL BUS TRAFFIC IS TO ENTER FROM CENTRAL AVENUE, LOAD / UNLOAD BEHIND THE MAIN BUILDING AND EXIT ONTO KOLA STREET TO OLD RICHTON ROAD.

FOR THE SAFETY OF OUR STUDENTS, THE REAR OF THE CAMPUS IS OFF LIMITS FOR THROUGH TRAFFIC DURING THE SCHOOL DAY.

FOR THE SAFETY OF OUR STUDENTS, PLEASE DO NOT BLOCK THE TRAFFIC LANES AROUND THE SCHOOL.

BIKES SHOULD BE WALKED TO THE BIKE RACK WHEN STUDENTS ARRIVE ON CAMPUS.

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A MESSAGE FROM THE ADMINISTRATION AND FACULTY

The administration and faculty welcome you to Petal Middle School and the 2015 – 2016 school year! We hope you had an enjoyable summer.

During the next nine months you will be offered an opportunity to continue your intellectual, social, physical, and moral development. We wish to help you in this very important part of your life. We want you to be successful!

The information in this handbook is provided to help everyone understand the rules and expectations that are necessary to make our school an enjoyable and productive place to learn and to grow. We know from past experience that those who succeed in school must do three things. Let me encourage you to begin today to do the following:

1. Get to school on time every day, every class. You cannot expect us to teach you if you are not here. 2. Do all of your school work every day, without getting behind. Do the very best that you can every day. 3. Behave! You know how to behave appropriately. We expect every student to behave every day.

Classroom Observation Time

The time a principal spends in the classrooms is one of the indicators for a successful school. The principal or assistant principal may not always be available due to classroom observations unless an appointment has been scheduled.

We have an exciting year ahead of us! If we can be of assistance in any way, please let us know.

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VISITOR INFORMATION

All parents or other visitors to the school must report to the principal's or assistant principal's office. Visitors will not be permitted to remain on the school campus unless authorized to do so by the principal or assistant principal. ALL Visitors must wear a visitor’s badge while on campus.

The Raptor visitor management system is a web–based software application that has been developed for the purpose of aiding in tracking visitors to schools. Raptor utilizes available public databases to help control campus security by checking all visitors against National sexual offender databases. It will allow schools to produce visitor badges and monitor volunteer hours.

Our goal is to make our campuses as safe as possible for our students.

Beginning this school year (2015-16), the following procedures will apply to all visitors in the Petal School District.

VISITOR MANAGEMENT PROCEDURES

1. The visitor must produce photo identification. This can be a state ID, driver's license, military ID, U.S. Passport card, or Mexican consulate card. The visitor’s name and date of birth can also be entered into the system if there is no photo identification.

2. The identification will be scanned through the Raptor system. 3. School official verifies scan results and the nature of the visit. If the result is negative the visitor will

be allowed the appropriate access and receive a visitor badge that is printed with their picture. Their identification will be held until they return to the office to exit and assure they are properly checked out of the Raptor system.

4. If Positive Match for Sex Offender is confirmed, a silent alarm will be sent. The School Resource Officer and school administration will be alerted of a possible sex offender at the school. The School official conducting the visitor check will ask the visitor to have a seat until school administration speaks to them. If the visitor asks for his/her ID back and asks to leave, the schools will comply with this request.

If a campus is conducting a special event, visitors entering the school will not have to go through the Raptor scan procedure. A special procedure will be in place for this type of event.

TRESPASS WARNING POLICY

Objective

The objective of this policy is to implement a procedure that will allow us, the Petal School District Police, to protect our students, faculty and staff from persons who exhibit behavior that would constitute an arrest being made based on state law. An example of such behavior would be Public Profanity, Disorderly Conduct, Failure to Comply, etc. This policy would be implemented during school hours, at after school activities and at any location where a school activity is taking place, i.e. sporting events, competitions, concerts, pageants, etc.

Procedure

a. When such an incident occurs, a police report will be generated and given to the site principal. The principal will determine if a trespass warning should be issued.

b. If the site principal determines a trespass warning is to be issued, a letter will be sent to the subject to advise him/her of said trespass warning.

c. A copy of the trespass warning letter will be kept at the school where the violation was committed, in Central Office and with the Petal School District Police Department.

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Types of Trespass Letters

a. Letters to the subject with children currently enrolled in school: This letter would be discretionary on the length of time not permitted on campus based on the site principal’s decision. Length of time not permitted on campus will be at the site principal’s discretion.

b. Letters to the subject with children no longer enrolled in school: This letter would be discretionary on the length of time not permitted on campus based on the site principal’s decision. If the subject does not have children currently enrolled, there is no need for that person to be on the campus.

c. Letters to the subject with no legal rights to children: This letter would also be able to extend the length of time to an indefinite Amount of time based on the site principal’s decision.

EACH TRESPASS LETTER WILL ADVISE WHEN HE/SHE MAY BE PERMITTED TO RETURN TO CAMPUS.

PETAL MIDDLE SCHOOL CRISIS MANAGEMENT

The Petal School District recognizes the importance of a safe and secure environment in order to provide the most effective learning situation. The district has taken certain precautions and specific measures to ensure the safety of both students and staff. A crisis management plan has been developed and extends the idea of proactive planning for a major crisis that may occur. It ensures that district officials, working with community leaders, have discussed and developed an appropriate plan of response that will make use of all available resources. In case of a crisis situation, the contact person for public information is the Petal School District Superintendent of Education. Public notification of a crisis situation would be given over local radio and television stations. Should early dismissal of students be necessary, parents can pick up their children at the front entrance to the campus and school buses would run early. Should evacuation of the campus be necessary, students would be evacuated to a predetermined area.

Petal School District Police Department

A Petal School District police officer will be on patrol at the Petal Middle School campus during school hours. Periodically throughout the school year unannounced searches involving a narcotics certified canine will be conducted.

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STUDENT APPEARANCE Students are expected to present a clean, neat and well-groomed appearance at school. It is the responsibility of parents and guardians to see that their child is properly attired for school. The administration reserves the right to make the final decision concerning the appropriateness of clothing at school. Parents should be aware of potential drastic changes in weather and should see that their child is dressed accordingly.

DRESS CODE

Recognizing that first impressions are important and that people are generally more at ease and function better when they are dressed appropriately, the following guidelines for dress have been established for Petal Middle School. The emphasis is upon cleanliness and neatness. Students will be restricted from attending classes if their attire is inappropriate.

The school’s administration reserves the right to make any decision necessary for the best interest of the students and which will protect the image of the school and community. The principal may allow some modifications to the dress code on designated days. This dress code outlines the only acceptable form of attire approved to be worn by students in this district. Every component of the student attire should be appropriate in length and /or size. Appropriate is defined as that which properly covers the body and which is in good taste. KNIT POLO / OXFORD BUTTON-UP SHIRTS

Solid colors: Petal Red, white, black, navy or gray

Must be buttoned high enough so that no cleavage can be seen

Collar

No visible emblems, trademarks or logos (except Petal School Name, Petal School District approved Panther, and/or Petal School extracurricular groups)

All shirttails must be tucked in

Only school color crew neck t-shirt or turtlenecks may be worn under polo shirts TURTLENECK SHIRTS

Solid colors: White, black, Petal red, navy or gray and must be tucked in PULLOVER SWEATSHIRTS/HOODIES School approved shirt must be worn underneath

Solid colors: White, black, Petal red, navy or gray

All Visible emblems, trademarks, logos must be white, black, Petal red, navy or gray SWEATERS

Solid colors: White, black, Petal red, navy or gray

Dress code shirt must be worn under PANTS

Solid colors: Khaki (tan), or navy

No sagging

Must be worn securely around waist with belt through all loops

No jeggings/leggings may be worn as pants

WALKING SHORTS/BERMUDA STYLE

Solid colors: Khaki (tan), or navy

No stretch fabric

Length – no more than three inches above the knee

SKIRTS/SKORTS

Solid color: Khaki (tan), or navy

No wrap skirts or slits

Length – no more than three inches above the knee

Leggings, if worn underneath, must be solid colors: white, black, Petal red, navy or gray-

BELTS

If belt loops exist, belt is mandatory

No rhinestones or studs

COATS/JACKETS

No trench coat style

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All zip-front sweatshirts/hoodies are considered jackets

Implemented 2016/2017 school year – Must be solid color: white, black, Petal red, navy, gray or brown

ALL SHOES

All lace up shoes must be laced and tied

No house shoes

HAIR ACCESSORIES

Ribbons, barrettes, headbands, ponytail holders, clippees and scarves are acceptable

No bandanas, hats, caps, do-rags, toboggans or skull caps

No disruptive hair styles or colors

JEWELRY

Jewelry should not pose a safety hazard (i.e. no spiked jewelry, oversized chain, etc.)

Authorized jewelry items may not be replicas of weapons, or contraband nor contain inappropriate

language

Pierced jewelry is limited to the ears

TATTOOS

No inappropriate tattoos (weapons, drugs, alcohol related, etc.)

In all instances, the appropriateness or inappropriateness of school dress will be determined by school administrators.

COURSE OF STUDY

7th Grade 8th Grade

Language Arts Language Arts Math **Math Science Science – Fee $6 U.S. History **MS Studies/ World Geography ICT I **ICT II Band – Fee $20 / Plus Instrument and Band Polo Band – Fee $20 + Instrument Chorus – Fee $25 + Outfit Chorus – Fee $25 + Outfit Art-Fee $10.00 Art – Fee $10 P.E./Health P. E. / Health $20.00 Activity Fee Journalism - Writing $20.00 Activity Fee

**High School Credit

Graduation Requirements

In school year 2008-2009 (anticipated graduation in 2012 or later)) must pass the Subject Area Tests in U.S. History, English II (with a writing component), Biology I, and Algebra I. This group of students must pass all four Subject Area Tests even if they take the course(s) prior to their 9th grade year.

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REQUIREMENTS FOR ENTRANCE AND CLASSIFICATION IN PETAL MIDDLE SCHOOL

1. Students who enroll in the 7th grade must have completed the requirements for the 6th grade.

2. Beginning with the 2013-2014 school year, students entering the 7th grade must have received the Tdap

vaccination as required by the Mississippi Department of Health.

3. For any 7th, or 8th grade student to be promoted to the next grade level, he/she must have passed Math, Language Arts, History, and Science with at least a 65 average or above in all except (1) of these courses.

Residency Requirements

Before any student can register to attend school in the Petal School District, the student’s parent or legal guardian must prove legal residence within the school district’s boundaries. Families whose primary residence is outside of the boundaries are NOT eligible to attend Petal Schools. In an effort to ensure that every student attending school in the Petal School District lives full time with a parent/guardian who is actually residing in the district and supporting the schools through their tax dollars, new residency requirements for the 2013-2014 school year have been established.

.

To establish residency two documents must be presented. One document from each of the lists below must be shown. Documents must be pre-printed with the name and address of the student’s parent or guardian and must be presented at the child’s school at the time of registration. These are the only documents that will be accepted to establish residency and enroll students in the Petal School District.

All applicants must submit at least one document from each of the following columns:

Column A: Column B:

___Mortgage Document-current receipt ___Electric bill w/name & address (within 30 days)

showing physical address ___Gas bill w/name & address (within 30 days)

___Lease – with effective dates or current receipt ___Water bill w/name & address (within 30 days)

___Deed

Transfers from other schools

As required through Federal Regulation 99.34 and formulated through Regulation 99.5, the Petal School District will forward educational records upon request to a school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.

1. VERIFICATION OF STUDENT RESIDENCY

2. CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE -All students will present verification of up-to-date immunizations with the blue slip issued through the Mississippi Health Department or any local physician.

3. WITHDRAWAL RECORDS FROM FORMER SCHOOL - All students should officially withdraw from their previous school before attempting to enter Petal School District. Copies of withdrawal papers are to be submit-ted prior to enrollment. Any student wishing to enroll who has been expelled or suspended from his/her former school must have approval from the administration before admittance.

Enrollment in the Petal School District becomes official after the student has provided the above information and with release of school records from his/her former school.

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GRADING SYSTEM, REPORTS AND TESTING

Grades are placed on report cards each nine-week term. During each nine-week term, tests and other means are used by teachers to measure the progress students have made in various subjects. The grade given at the end of each nine weeks indicates the academic accomplishments of the student.

EXPLANATION OF MARKS A = 90 to 100 B = 80 to 89 C = Fair - 70 to 79 D = Poor - 65 to 69

F = Very Poor - Grade 64 and below / Failure I = Incomplete

The school session is divided into two semesters. Each semester is further divided into two nine- week terms. Nine-week grades are obtained as follows: Daily work, weekly or unit tests and projects combine for 100% of the term grade.

The semester grade is obtained as follows:

The average of the two term grades will be the semester grade. The yearly average is determined by averaging the two semester grades.

Student Progress Reports – Report Cards

During the fifth week of each term, teachers will give individual students a progress report to be taken home and signed by the student's parent(s) or guardian(s) and returned to the teacher.

Report cards will be given to students or parents at the end of each reporting period. No report cards will be distributed to students who owe for library books, textbooks, school fees, etc.

Progress reports and report cards should be signed by the student's parent(s) or guardian(s) and returned promptly to the school. Demerits/detention will be assigned to students who fail to return signed progress reports or report cards within one week of the day issued.

Cheating

It is the policy of the Petal Middle School that any student caught cheating will encounter the following: (1) parents will be immediately notified by the teacher, and a failing grade will be posted for that work; (2) the second offense will result in the student's parents being notified immediately, the student receiving a failing grade and assignment of detention time.

Retention Policy

The faculty and staff of Petal Middle School work diligently to ensure the success of all students. However, there may be instances when a student needs to be retained for academic reasons. If this is the case, the parents will be notified of the retention in a timely manner.

Testing

In order to meet college and career readiness benchmarks, Petal School District students are required to take tests deemed necessary by the state and/or district. Examples, not inclusive, are NWEA, unit tests, state assessments, etc. Some assessments are paper/pencil and others are computer based.

Subject Area Testing

Students entering a Mississippi public school will not be required to pass any end-of-course Subject Area Test in a course for which the school accepts Carnegie units earned by the student in a private school as fulfilling the requirements for a Mississippi high school diploma, provided the private school is accredited regionally or by the state of Mississippi.

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Students entering a Mississippi public school will be required to pass an end-of-course Subject Area Test in a course for which the school accepts Carnegie units earned by the student in a private school as fulfilling the requirements for a Mississippi high school diploma if the private school is not accredited regionally or by the state of Mississippi.

Students entering a Mississippi public school will be required to pass an end-of-course Subject Area Test in a course for which the school accepts Carnegie units earned by a student through home schooling as fulfilling the requirements for a Mississippi high school diploma.

Any Mississippi public school student who fails to pass a required Subject Area Test will be offered a chance to retake the test three times each year until a passing score is achieved:

At or near the end of the fall semester

At or near the end of the spring semester

At or near the end of summer school

MDE Statewide Assessment Schedule: *Most tests will be taken online, and a window of time is scheduled for the tests. Petal Middle School will decide

later on specific dates. Please check with your child for specific dates and If at all possible, avoid absences on those dates. Science Grade 8 Testing Window TBA MCT 3/EOY Grade 7/8 Language Arts / Math TBA

GUIDANCE SERVICES

It is the aim of the Petal Middle School Guidance Department to help each pupil profit as much as possible from his/her school program experiences. The guidance and counseling process is based on an understanding of each student gained from his/her school history (record), from the study of his/her individual background, and from the analysis of available test results. Students are encouraged to plan for the future through surveying vocational and educational opportunities which are in line with their own abilities and interests. Emphasis is placed upon the ability of the student to make wise decisions and solve his/her problems independently in order that he/she may grow and mature, making his/her own unique contributions to society in a positive manner.

The counselor may be able to help students to: 1. Select and outline a program of study. 2. Participate fully in the school programs. 3. Identify abilities, interests and special aptitudes by use of standardized tests and other sources of information. 4. Provide information on career opportunities. 5. Make social and academic adjustments. 6. Maintain good attendance in school.

Appointments for parent-teacher conferences may be made by calling the principal’s office at (601-584-6301).

Parent – Teacher Conferences

The purpose of parent-teacher conferences is to foster communication between the school and parents relative to the student's development. In the event a parent desires to meet with his/her child's teacher(s), the following procedure should be followed:

1. Parents should contact the office at the school for an appointment that is convenient to the parent and the teacher and does not disturb the instructional day.

2. Parents should state the nature and purpose of the conference at the time the appointment is made. This will insure that the teacher has appropriate information needed to answer parent concerns.

3. Parent-teacher conferences are confidential and should address the individual needs of the students. Confer-

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ences with groups of parents with individual teachers do not provide the proper forum for addressing individual needs of students.

4. ALL PARENTS AND VISITORS MUST REPORT TO THE OFFICE FOR A VISITOR'S PASS IMMEDIATELY UPON ENTERING THE CAMPUS.

SHARED DECISION MAKING COUNCIL

The Petal School District Strategic Plan provides for a Shared Decision Making Council at the district level and at each school level. These councils are comprised of parents, students, teachers, support staff, at large community represen-tatives and administrators. The purpose of the council is to provide input into the decision making process. Anyone interested in serving on one of these councils may contact one of the district schools or the district Central Office for an application.

SCHOOL-SPONSORED ACTIVITIES

In an effort to comply with the provisions of the Education Reform Act of 1982 as they relate to school-sponsored activities, our school district has adopted the following policy:

A school district or volunteering school will not participate in activities that require any student to miss more than 20 class periods in a course for which grades and/or units of credit are issued during the school year. During the school year, a student will not be allowed more than five planned absences to occur in the same class period in courses for which grades and/or credit are issued.

Additionally, if a student exceeds the attendance policy during the year, the student will not be allowed to participate in school-sponsored activities during the school day without special permission. Exceptions will be considered only for students with extenuating circumstances. This includes band, chorus, incentive trips and any other field trip.

Organizations will be limited to one out-of-state trip per year that would involve students missing school. (No more than two school days will be allowed for elective activities.) Extracurricular trips will primarily be funded by students and parent organizations. All trip plans and itineraries must be approved by the principal prior to the trip. Exceptions to the above policy can be made upon the recommendation of the principal and approval of the school board.

All students who go on school-sponsored trips are to return with respective sponsors and groups unless given permis-sion to return with their parents or legal guardian. The parent/guardian must personally go to the sponsor at the end of the activity and request permission for their son or daughter to be released to them. This policy applies to any school-sponsored activity. Special travel arrangements to and from school-sponsored activities must be cleared with the principal prior to the activity.

Athletic Policy

To be eligible only for middle/junior high activities, a student must have passed any four courses (that meet the equivalent of 250 minutes per week and meet MDE requirements) with a 2.0 average for the preceding semester (computed numerically or by GPA). The year-end average for the spring semester will be used to compute averages for the fall semester. Students must be on track to be promoted to be eligible.

To be eligible for high school activities, the middle/junior high school student must have passed the four core courses (English, Math, Science and Social Studies) with a 2.0 average for the preceding semester (computed numerically or by GPA). The year-end average for the spring semester will be used to compute averages for the averages for the fall semester. Students must be on track to be promoted to be eligible.

Summer school or extended school year grades will replace the grade for a failed course in the spring semester GPA.

Cheerleaders

To be eligible for cheerleading, the student must:

Accurately complete an application for cheerleading signed by a parent or guardian and return the application by the deadline.

Be able to pay for all necessary items.

Follow all Petal cheerleading rules and regulations provided with the application.

Be ruled as eligible under Mississippi High School Activities Association requirements.

Be able to participate in all cheerleading functions and practices.

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Junior Beta Club

The National Junior Beta Club is a scholarship and leadership club for 8th grade students. Its purposes are to (1) encourage effort, (2) reward merit, (3) to promote those actions and qualities which make for good citizenship in the school community and (4) encourage and assist students to continue to excel in their education.

To be eligible to become a member of the Petal Middle School Junior BETA, a student must:

Be in the 8th grade.

Must have a 90 or better average for each academic course, for the final average in the 7th grade and satisfactory conduct.

In order to remain a member of the BETA Club, a student must maintain a 90 average in each 8th grade class and have satisfactory conduct.

Science Olympiad Team

Science Olympiad is a national non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of K-12 science education, increasing male, female and minority interest in science, creating a technologically-literate workforce and providing recognition for outstanding achievement by both students and teachers. These goals are achieved by participating in Science Olympiad tournaments and non-competitive events, incorporating Science Olympiad into classroom curriculum and attending teacher training institutes.

To be eligible to become a member of the Petal Middle School Science Olympiad Team, a student must:

Accurately complete an application for Science Olympiad team, signed by a parent or guardian and return the application by the deadline.

Follow all Petal Science Olympiad rules and regulations provided with the application. To Apply:

Grades: No grade below a C for the final average in any subject from previous year.

Behavior: No office referrals and no more than one demerit/detention from previous year.

To Remain:

Grades: No grade below a C for any term throughout the school year.

Behavior: No office referrals and not more than one demerit.

History Club The History Club prepares students for participation in National History Day. National History Day is a nationwide competition for middle and high school students. It encourages students to use their creativity to develop original historical research focused on an annual theme. The Department of History at the University of Southern Mississippi helps to prepare students for national competition and hosts the annual statewide contest. Students who participate in the state National History Day contest compete for the opportunity to attend the national competition in College Park, Maryland, and have the opportunity to win scholarships and other awards. To be eligible to become a member of the Petal Middle School History Club, a student must:

Accurately complete an application for the History Club, signed by parent or guardian, and returned by the deadline.

Follow all Petal Middle School History Club rules and regulations provided with the application. To Apply:

Grades: No grade below a C for the final average in any subject from previous year.

Behavior: No office referrals and not more than one demerit/detention from previous year. To Remain:

Grades: No grade below a C for any term throughout the school year.

Behavior: No office referrals and not more than one demerit/detention.

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Student Council

Each grade will elect ten student council members.

A student must be enrolled in the Petal School District one semester prior to the election. To qualify for nomination and to remain on the Student Council the student must meet the following criteria:

7th Grade:

To run: Behavior: No office referrals from progress report for the remainder of the year

Grades: No grade below a C for any 9 week period from progress report to end of the year

To remain:

Behavior: No office referrals for the remainder of the year.

Grades: No grade below a C in any 9 week period - you will be immediately removed

8th Grade:

To run: Behavior: No office referrals

Grades: No grade below a C for any nine week period

To remain:

Behavior: No office referrals

Grades: No grade below a C in any 9 week period - you will be immediately removed

ATTENDANCE POLICY

(The procedures in this section shall constitute a good-faith effort by the Petal School District to comply with state law, to foster academic growth, and to establish expectations of each student at Petal Middle School to attend classes on a regular basis.)

State Law

The Mississippi Compulsory School Attendance Law (37-13-91) requires all children who have attained or will attain the age of 6 years on or before September 1 of the calendar year and who have not attained the age of 17 on or before September of the calendar year to be in regular attendance at school. The law also requires that the Superintendent report immediately to the local School Attendance Officer any compulsory school-age child who has not enrolled within 15 calendar days after the first day of the school year. In addition, the Superintendent will report any child with five unexcused absences to the School Attendance Officer for appropriate consultation between the officer and parents/guardians. When the child has 12 unexcused absences, the law provides that charges of “Education Child Neglect” may be brought against the parent/guardian. Potential punishment for Education Child Neglect is a fine up to $1,000 and/or 1 year in jail. The School Attendance Officer is available to assist parents in having the children understand the importance of getting an education through our public school system.

Perfect Attendance

Perfect attendance shall be defined and observed as no absences, no tardiness to school and no early dismissals from school. Exceptions shall be school bus tardiness or school sponsored field trips.

Tardy to School

A student is tardy if he/she arrives at any time after the tardy bell for first period. Any student who is tardy must report to the principal's office to sign in before going to class. Only three excused tardies to school are allowed per term. A detention will be issued for a fourth (4

th) tardy to school and subsequent tardies to school within the

same term.

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Tardy to Class

Students are allowed time to pass from one class to the next class and should not be tardy except in cases of emergency. If an emergency should arise, the student should get an admittance slip from the teacher who knows about the emergency. In the event the student needs more than the regular time, he/she should report to class first and obtain permission from the teacher. Every student is expected to be in class on time every day, every period. The teacher is to assign each tardy student to detention. A student is tardy to class if he/she is not in his/her assigned seat when the tardy bell rings.

Excused Absences

Under Mississippi law (37-13-91), in order for an absence to be determined as EXCUSED, satisfactory evidence of the excuse must be provided by the student, including a note from the parent or a physician’s excuse. The following eight categories constitute EXCUSED ABSENCES:

1. an absence resulting from illness or injury of the student which prevents the student from being physically able to attend school

2. an absence resulting from the death or serious injury of a member of the immediate family (parents, grandparents, siblings)

3. an absence resulting from medical or dental reasons

4. an absence resulting from a student’s attendance at the proceedings of a court or administrative tribunal

5. an absence due to a required religious observance or event

6. an absence resulting from an authorized school activity

7. an absence that requires a student to be isolated for health purposes

8. an absence whereby the principal determines that conditions warrant that the absence be excused, which includes pre-approval of the absence by the principal

THE PRINCIPAL HAS THE AUTHORITY TO OVERRIDE ATTENDANCE POLICY.

For state auditing purposes and to keep proper in-house records, an excused absence must be submitted by the parent or by the principal or his designee in written form. It is the responsibility of the student and parent to keep up with or to track the excused absences turned in each month. Excuses should be received in the same month the absences occur and no later than the fifth day of the student’s return to school.

To obtain an EXCUSED absence for the student, the parent or guardian may do one of the following:

1. Send a written excuse by the student that clearly states the date(s) of the absence(s), the student’s first and last names, a parent’s legible signature and the reason for the absence(s). The excuse must be presented to the attendance clerk or appropriate personnel in the principal’s office.

NOTE: Only three (3) parent/guardian notes (excusing a maximum of 2 consecutive days each) per term will be accepted for excusing a student’s absences. All other absences must be excused by a note from a specific medical office, by an obituary in the case of the death of an immediate family member, or by an official letter from an appropriate source for absences due to court procedures or religious observances.

2. Submit an excuse in writing and obtain approval from the principal (or principal’s designee) when there is prior knowledge of an absence. However, no absence of two weeks or longer will be approved unless the reason is covered by state law and confirmed in advance and documented by the principal or assistant principal.

Unexcused Absences

Also according to state law (37-13-91), an “unlawful” absence is an absence for which the student does not have a valid excuse, including days missed because of disciplinary suspension. These absences are also called UNEXCUSED absences.

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If the student does not follow the procedure in obtaining an excused absence upon returning to school, the absence will be considered UNEXCUSED, and the student may not be allowed to make up work and may receive a failing grade for school work missed until a written excuse is presented to the school.

Make-up Work for Excused Absences

The student will be allowed to make up work missed following an excused absence by contacting the particular teacher. The make-up work may be done under the following provisions:

1. The student has no later than the second day after he/she returns to school to see the teacher for make-up assignments.

2. Time permitted for work to be made up shall be in direct proportion to the days missed. In other words, once the teacher gives the make-up work to the student, the student has the same number of days to complete and turn in the work as the number of days he/she missed.

3. Make-up tests will be given at the discretion of the teacher.

4. Tests and assignments made prior to a student’s absence are due upon the student’s return to school.

5. Work missed for school-sponsored activities should be made up prior to the activity or made up in direct proportion to the days missed.

6. If a student fails to appear for an appointment for make-up work without being excused by the teacher, he/she has forfeited his right to make up work.

Extracurricular Activities and Absences

No student missing more than 20 class periods in a course for which grades and/or credit are issued during the school year may participate in school-sponsored activities or trips unless approved by the school administration.

Truancy (Skipping)

A student is considered truant when he or she is absent without knowledge or consent of parents and/or school officials. A student guilty of truancy will be assigned to in-school suspension. Parents must accompany such pupils to the principal's office before re-admittance to class.

Homework Assignments

Any parent or guardian desiring homework assignments for students who are not in school should call the office of the school before 9:00 a.m. These homework assignments may be picked up between 3:15 p.m. and 3:45 p.m. on the day of the call.

Dismissal from School

All requests for early dismissal should be in the principal’s office by 9:00 a.m. except, of course, for dismissals that are due to unforeseen emergencies. All pupils dismissed from school will have to be picked up by the parent/ guardian or designated representative listed on the student’s check out card. Any written request for dismissal must have the date, reason, and parent's signature on the request. Permission must be secured from the principal, assistant principal or principal’s designee before any student can check out or leave the school grounds. Unauthorized check-outs will be treated as leaving school without permission which constitutes truancy. THERE WILL BE NO EARLY DISMISSAL AFTER 3:15 P.M. WITHOUT THE PRIOR APPROVAL OF THE PRINCIPAL. CHECK OUT PERSONS MUST BE 21 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER AND PREPARED TO SHOW A VALID I.D.

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DISCIPLINE

The objectives of discipline within our school may be considered threefold: 1. To establish and maintain favorable conditions free from distraction and misbehavior 2. To establish and maintain respect for authority within the school 3. To develop attitudes, habits, and skills required for self-discipline and good citizenship

We recognize that for learning to take place we must maintain conditions conducive to learning. This implies a class-room and school environment that is orderly. Respect for authority is a value to be stressed, but it should come, at least partly, as a result of leadership and not forced tribute.

All students are to conduct themselves appropriately at all school-sponsored activities. Failure to do so will result in the student losing his/her privilege to attend such functions.

The responsibility for a student's behavior rests with the parents or legal guardian and the individual student. The principal has the authority to administer any disciplinary action approved by the Petal School Board necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of all students. This administration will take whatever steps necessary to enforce the policies of the Petal School District to include, if necessary, the involvement of the appropriate law enforcement or juvenile authorities.

The discipline philosophy of the Petal School District supports the teachers' right to teach and the students' right to learn. Behavior which stops the teacher from teaching and/or any student from learning will not be tolerated. We recognize that effective discipline requires the shared responsibility of parents, students and school personnel.

Parents are notified of a suspension by telephone and/or by letter. If a parent is not contacted by phone, a letter with the information is given to the student. On occasion a student is suspended immediately, if it is considered in his/her best interest or the general welfare of the other students and/ or school personnel.

If special mental or physical problems exist which would affect the educational well-being of the student should any of the punishment procedures be administered to the student, the school principal should be notified in writing each school year. If, for any reason, a parent does not want the student paddled, the administration and each teacher is to be notified in writing immediately after the student's enrollment. This procedure is to be followed each school year.

Teachers will provide students and/or parents with a list of rules and consequences which will be used in their class-rooms. When a student chooses to break the rules, consequences will be consistently applied. When a student is referred to the office, disciplinary action will be taken according to the following prescribed steps and consequences. Depending on the seriousness of the offenses and previous disciplinary record, a student may enter the ladder at a level higher than step 1 and/or may be referred to appropriate youth services.

Laser lights and yo-yos have proven to be dangerous at school. If brought to school, these will be taken up

and disciplinary action will be assigned.

STUDENT TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION GUIDE

Parents and students are reminded that Mississippi law refers to riding a school bus as an “entitlement”, which means that public school districts are not required to provide transportation for any student who does not meet behavioral expectations.

Student Behavior

Parents and students should understand that riding the school bus is an extension of the school day, and the bus is considered a classroom on wheels. The following behaviors are expected of each student who rides a school bus in the Petal School District. Failure to meet these expectations could result in the student’s removal from the bus.

The Basic Five

These are the expectations that will allow a student to continue riding the bus:

Sit where the bus driver assigns you, facing the front at all times, with your bottom on the seat, feet in front of you, remaining seated while the bus is in motion.

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Keep your hands, elbows, feet, legs, etc. to yourself, following the “hands-off” policy.

Talk or speak to others in a respectable manner with an “inside” voice. Shouting, yelling, raising your voice or vulgar language will be unacceptable.

Follow the same rules as at school concerning cell phones, IPods and all other electronic devices. Students are expected to leave them at home.

Keep food and drinks in your bags at all times while on the school bus.

Other Expected Behaviors from Students Who Ride the School Bus Refrain from making obscene gestures, horse-playing and throwing objects on the bus or out the window.

Take care of school property and report anyone who cuts or tears bus seats or damages property in any other way.

Keep toys, games, spray colognes, hair sprays, deodorant, etc. at home or in your bags.

School rules concerning fighting and the use or possession of weapons, tobacco, alcohol and/or drugs will be enforced on the school bus.

A student will bring a band instrument or any large item on the bus only if it will fit in the student’s lap or on the floor between the student’s legs without hiding the student’s face.

Follow the school dress code policy. Keep uniform shirts on, pants up and no hats!!!

Other behaviors that the bus driver feels to be unacceptable will be addressed with the student, and the student is expected to obey the driver when told to correct or discontinue a specific behavior.

Continuous violation of any of the above behavioral expectations will be subject to the bus discipline ladder process as described below. (Special education laws will be applied as needed.)

The following misbehaviors on the school bus are subject to the same discipline as described in this school handbook, as well as subject to removal from the bus:

Fighting between students on the bus

Possession or use of a weapon on the bus

Possession or use of illegal substances on the bus

Any other action that might occur on the bus, but would be a Step 4 or higher offense if committed on campus (i.e. sexual misconduct, assault)

School Bus Discipline Ladder .

Parental Contact Form: This form is sent home for a parent to read, sign and return to the bus driver. THIS IS THE FINAL WARNING FROM THE BUS DRIVER BEFORE A STUDENT’S PRIVILEGE TO RIDE THE BUS IS REVOKED!

Discipline to Principals: Begins AFTER the Parental Contact Form has been issued and the student’s misbehavior continues. The bus driver will record the student’s misbehavior in detail on a School Bus Incident Report Form. This form will be sent to the principal, with a copy of the Parental Contact Form attached. Once the student gets to this stage, there will be no going back to the warning stage. The principal will have no option here, except to remove the student from the bus.

STEP 1……………………………….. 2 days off the bus…………………… 10 school days probation

STEP 2……………………………….. 5 days off the bus…………………… 15 school days probation

STEP 3……………………………….. 10 days off the bus…………………. 20 school days probation

STEP 4……………………………….. 20 days off the bus…………………. no probation for this step

STEP 5……………………………….. OFF THE BUS THE REMAINDER OF THE SCHOOL YEAR

*A student cannot return to the same step more than one time, regardless of probation period!

School Bus Video

Student confidentiality regulations prohibit parents form viewing surveillance videos. Parents may request school personnel view videos from school or bus cameras if available for disciplinary review purposes.

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SCHOOL DISCIPLINE LADDER

Step I 1. Detention for three (3) days, in-school suspension one (1) day.

Step II 1. Contact parents. 2. Detention for five (5) days or two (2) days in-school suspension (ISS) or one (1) day home suspension

(OSS) or corporal punishment. 3. Removal from the ladder if not referred to the office for 15 school days.

Step III 1. Contact parents. 2. Three (3) days in-school suspension (ISS) or two (2) days home suspension (OSS). 3. Removal from the ladder if not referred to the office for 20 school days. 4. Mandatory at-school conference with the parent, the principal or assistant principal required for read-

mission.

Step IV 1. Contact parents. 2. Three (3) to five (5) days home suspension or combination of home and in-school suspension equal to

three to five days. 3. Removal from the ladder if not referred to the office for 30 school days. 4. Mandatory at-school conference with the principal or assistant principal, parent, student, counselor,

and interdisciplinary team members required for readmission.

Step V 1. Contact parents. 2. Five (5) to nine (9) days home suspension or a combination of home and in-school suspension equal to

five to nine days. 3. Moved from Step 5 to Step 4 if not referred to the office for 45 school days. 4. Mandatory at-school conference with the parent, principal or assistant principal required for readmis-

sion. 5. No participation in or attendance at any school activity for nine weeks.

Step VI 1. Contact parents. 2. Nine (9) days home suspension. 3. Student may be recommended for expulsion. 4. Moved from Step 6 to Step 5 if not referred to the office for 45 school days. 5. No participation in any school activity for the remainder of the school year, and no attendance at any

school activity for nine weeks. 6. Mandatory at-school conference with the parent, the principal or assistant principal required for read-

mission.

Step VII 1. Contact parents. 2. Nine-day suspension. 3. Student recommended for expulsion.

NOTE: AFTER EVERY THIRD IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION ASSIGNMENT, THE NEXT REFERRAL OFFENSE WILL BE CONSIDERED HABITUAL AND THE STUDENT WILL BE ASSIGNED TO OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSION OR ADDITIONAL DAY/DAYS OF ISS.

The administrators of Petal Middle School reserve the right to assign students to "pride projects" on the school grounds or in any of the buildings. The projects would involve litter control, special cleaning details or other appropriate conse-quences for students who abuse the school grounds, buildings or facilities at Petal Middle School. The "pride projects" may be in addition to or in lieu of the consequences available on the discipline ladder, at the discretion of the adminis-tration.

This list of infractions is not all inclusive. Petal Middle School faculty and administration reserves the right to refer students for disciplinary action for other behaviors which disrupt the educational environment of the campus.

Incentive is provided for the student to improve behavior through provisions of a probationary period that allows a student to be removed from the discipline ladder by good conduct.

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BEHAVIORS THAT WILL BE REFERRED TO THE PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE

INFRACTION POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCE

1. Disrespect 1 - 7

2. Defiance 1 - 7 3. Continued Defiance 1 - 7 4. Classroom or Campus Disruption 1 - 5 5. Dress Code Violation 1 - 5 6. Electronic Device Violation 1 - 4 7. Profanity or vulgarity, including gestures 1 - 7 8. Horse playing 1 - 4 9. Harassing, intimidation or threatening other students, faculty, staff 1 - 7 10. Instigate/participate in verbal or push/shove confrontation 1 - 4 11. Possession, distribution, or sharing of obscene literature 1 - 4 12. Leaving classroom without permission 1 - 4 13. Leaving school without permission or failure to report to class 1 - 5 14. Acts that are detrimental to decency, decorum, or order 1 - 5 15. Forge/deceive/misrepresent the truth/lying 1 - 7 16. Improper use of the Internet/Network 1 - 7 17. Hazing – Physical or mental abuse 1 - 7 18. Unauthorized use/sale/possession/transfer of non/prescription drug 3 - 7 19. Possession/use/transfer of tobacco or paraphernalia 3 - 7 20. Public display of affection 1 - 7 21. Vandalism 1 - 4 22. Repeated violation of school rules 2 - 7 23. Possession/distribution/transfer/use of fireworks 2 - 7 24. Physical violence on student/employee 3 - 7 25. Instigate/participate in fight 1 - 7 26. Use, sale, transfer, or possession of alcohol, drugs, narcotics, or illegal drugs or paraphernalia 5 - 7

27. Use/attempted use/possession/transfer of dangerous object/weapon 1 - 7 28. Steals, appropriates or converts to own use property of another w/restitution required 2 - 7 29. Defacing/destruction of school property w/restitution required 2 - 7 30. Stalking 2 - 7 31. Sexual harassment 2 - 7

32. Sexual misconduct/sexual battery 3 - 7 33. ISS Misbehavior 2 - 7 34. Violation of hands off policy 1 - 4 35. Throwing objects 1 - 4

36. Extortion 3 - 7 37. Theft 2 - 7

38. Robbery 3 - 7 39. Cheating 1 - 7

40. Possess Prohibited Substance 1 - 7 41. Other misbehavior as designated by administration 1 - 7 42. Failure to complete report 1 - 4

43. Truancy 1 - 7

44. No Class Materials 1 - 4

45. Failure to report to detention 1 - 4

46. Poisoning 3 - 7

47. Trespassing 2 - 7

48. Assault 4 - 7

49. Rape 5 - 7

50. Bomb threat 3 - 7

51. Possession/transfer of firearm 5 - 7

52. Use/attempt use of firearm 5 - 7

53. Excessive tardiness 1 - 4

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Alternative School

The Petal School District provides an alternative school for those students who have difficulty in a regular school setting. Please see the guidance counselor for information on the alternative school program.

Alternative to Suspension As an alternative to suspension, a student may remain in school by having the parent/legal guardian, with the consent of the student's teacher(s); attend class with the student for a period of time specifically agreed upon by the reporting teacher(s) and school principal. If the parent/legal guardian does not agree to attend class with the student or fails to attend class with the student, the student shall be suspended in accordance with the code of student conduct and discipline policies of the Petal School District. Legal Reference: Senate Bill 2239

Appeals

In-school suspension, detention, and suspension of five (5) days or less from school or bus may not be appealed beyond the school principal. Parents or guardians aggrieved by the disciplinary action may request in writing a review of the decision by the principal. An appeal may be made to a district discipline review committee for a suspension in excess of five but less than ten days out-of-school. Suspensions of more than five (5) days from the bus may be reviewed by an alternate district administrator.

Expulsion is defined as any denial of school attendance beyond 10 days which may be permanent or which may terminate at the beginning of the next school year provided sufficient rehabilitation can be demonstrated. A hearing before a district discipline review committee is automatic. A complete copy of the district discipline and appeals policy is available for review in each principal's office and in the library.

Behavior on/off Campus

House Bill 776, Effective July 1, 2000, gives the local school board the authority to expel a student or to change placement to an alternative school or a home-bound program for misconduct:

in the school

on the road to and from school

at any school related activity or event

or on property other than school property or other than at a school related event

Authority exists when the superintendent or principal determines that such misconduct renders the student’s presence in the classroom a disruption to the educational environment or a detriment to the best interest and welfare of the students and teacher of such a class as a whole. Legal Reference: 37-7-301 Students can be held accountable for breaking school rules on property adjacent to the school campus. This applies to before and after school as well as during school hours. Examples are: smoking at a local business and fighting in a business' parking lot.

Bias Behavior

In the event it is found beyond reasonable doubt that an offense was committed by reason of the actual or perceived race, color, ancestry, ethnicity, religion, national origin of the victim, consequences will be assigned based on the seriousness of the offense. This policy applies to all students, parents, school employees, and visitors while on school grounds and/or school sponsored activities or to and from school.

Further action, as deemed necessary, may be taken under state statutes 99-301 and 99-19-307 of the Mississippi

Code.

Office Detention

A detention program has been established for middle school students who misbehave or who violate the school district's discipline or behavioral policies and procedures. Any student duly informed by the principal or assistant principal to arrive before or remain after school for disciplinary action is expected to be present. If an emergency exists necessitating a possible change, the principal or assistant principal will make the decision.

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Detention will be handled according to the following procedures:

1. The school principal or assistant principal shall determine the amount and assign all detention.

2. All detentions shall be served at the time assigned.

3. Students will be required to bring an assignment to detention. The assignment could be homework or something appropriate to read.

4. Absences due to personal illness, serious illness in the family, death in the family, or special permission obtained in advance from the principal, shall be excused.

5. All excused absences from detention shall be made up as soon as possible following the excused absence.

6. On the date the detention is assigned, the office personnel shall:

Make an effort to contact the parents or guardian by phone or by letter to notify them that their child is being given detention.

7. Failure to report to detention: (includes tardy or office detention)

Assignment to detention is an effort by Petal Middle School to deter unsatisfactory behavior or habits without resorting to the more serious discipline consequences of in-school suspension and out-of-school suspension. However, failure to report to detention has become a major problem. The following guidelines will be used when dealing with students who do not attend detention:

1st – 3

rd offense - 1 day In-school suspension

4th offense - 1 day Out-of-School suspension or begin step 2 of discipline ladder

Disciplinary Conference

1. A parent/legal guardian of a compulsory-school-age child enrolled in the Petal School District may be requested to appear at school by the school attendance officer or an appropriate school official for a disciplinary conference regarding acts of the student.

2. A parent/legal guardian of a compulsory-school-age child enrolled in the Petal School District who refuses or willfully fails to attend a disciplinary conference may be summoned by the Superintendent or the school attendance officer and may be required to attend a disciplinary conference.

3. A parent/legal guardian of a compulsory-school-age child enrolled in the Petal School District who refuses or willfully fails to attend a disciplinary conference shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction, shall be fined not to exceed Two Hundred Dollars ($200.00).

Legal Reference: 37-11-53, Mississippi Code of 1972, As Amended Senate Bill 2239, 2001 Regular Session

Use/Possession of Drugs or Weapons

No Student attending school or any school-sponsored activity shall be in possession of or under the influence of any compound or substance that can be taken orally, intravenously, or inhaled (Including, but not limited to, alcohol, drugs, narcotics, tobacco, e-cigarettes, and/or any paraphernalia). It is unlawful to bring any weapon on any educational property or any school sponsored activity. A student knowingly in possession of a weapon as defined by MS Code 97-37-17 and/or any imitation weapon may be recommended for expulsion, the weapon seized, and the matter referred to the appropriate law enforcement authority.

Grievance Procedures

The Board realizes there may be conditions in the school system that need improvement and students should have some means to effectively express their concerns.

Student complaints and grievances shall be resolved through orderly processes and at the lowest possible level. However, the Board shall provide channels for eventual hearing, should circumstances dictate.

A detailed description of the process for handling complaints and grievances can be found in section JCEA of the School Board Policy Manual. Copies of this manual are located in the principal's office and in the library.

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Habitually disruptive students

1. The term "disruptive behavior" means conduct of a student that is so unruly, disruptive or abusive that it seriously interferes with teacher's or administrator's ability to communicate with the students in a classroom, or with the operation of a school or school-related activity, and which is not covered by other law related to violence or possession of weapons or controlled substances on school property, school vehicles or at school-related activities. Such behaviors include but are not limited to; foul, profane, obscene, threatening, defiant or abusive language or action toward teachers or other school employees; defiance, ridicule or verbal attack of a teacher; and/or willful, deliberate and overt acts of disobedience of the directions of a teacher. The teacher has the right to remove any student from class. The principal or assistant principal shall determine whether a child meets the definition of "disruptive" or "habitually disruptive".

2. The term "habitually disruptive" refers to such actions of a student which cause disruption in a classroom on school property or vehicles or at a school-related activity on more than two (2) occasions during a school year, and to disruptive behavior that was initiated, willful and overt on the part of the student and which required the attention of school personnel to deal with the disruption. However, no student shall be considered to be habitually disruptive before the development and implementation of a behavior modification plan for the student in accordance with the code of student conduct and discipline plans of the school district.

3. Any student who is thirteen (13) years of age or older for whom a behavior modification plan is developed by the school principal, reporting teacher and student's parent/legal guardian and that student does not comply with the plan shall be deemed habitually disruptive and subject to expulsion on the occurrence of the third act of disruptive behavior during a school year. After the second act of disruptive behavior by a student who is younger than thirteen (13) years of age, a functional behavior assessment shall be conducted. A principal or central office administrator may request that a functional behavior assessment be conducted for a child who is thirteen (13) years of age or older prior to an expulsion.

In-School Suspension (ISS)

At the discretion of the principal and as a last alternative to out-of-school suspension, a student may be placed in in-school suspension (ISS), a program designated to keep students working productively at school while being restricted under disciplinary measures. During the time in the ISS program, a student will be totally separated from the normal school setting. Re-entry into the regular school program is based on personal performance and meeting the specific requirements of the ISS program. Pride projects will be assigned to each student for character building purposes.

Any student arrested for a felony will be suspended immediately from all extracurricular participation until the student is cleared of the felony charge. If the student is cleared of the felony or the felony charge is dropped, the student will be reinstated in all extracurricular activities in which he/she is involved. If the felony arrest is upheld by the courts, the student will be removed from all extracurricular activities for a minimum of one year.

Interrogations

School administrators and teachers have the right to interrogate students regarding their conduct and/or the conduct of others. In regard to students' alleged actions, except where the alleged action would constitute a criminal offense, the right against self-incrimination does not exist.

Peer Mediation/Conflict Management

The school may require that a student or students participate in a peer mediation/conflict management program in addition to and as a part of disciplinary action.

Searches

Students in the district have the right to privacy and security against arbitrary invasion of their personal property by school officials. However, the school must maintain an atmosphere conducive to the pursuit of its educational goals, including a limited right to search students' personal belongings when it is in the interest of the overall welfare of other students or is necessary to preserve the good order and discipline of the school.

Lockers can be opened and searched at any time by school officials. Other searches may be conducted with reason-able cause by not less than two members of the professional staff. Any vehicle on any campus will be subject to search with reasonable cause. Any student who commits an unlawful act on school grounds, at a school-sponsored activity or a school related activity, is subject to having charges filed against him/her by the school district with the proper law enforcement officials.

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HARASSMENT/BULLYING The faculty and staff are committed to a safe educational environment for all students, employees, volunteer and patrons, free from harassment, intimidation or bullying. “Harassment, intimidation or bullying” means any intentional written, verbal, or physical act, when the act:

Physically harms a student or damages the student’s property; or

Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s education; or

Is severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or

Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.

Harassment, intimidation or bullying can take many forms including: slurs, rumors, jokes, innuendos, demeaning comments, drawing cartoons, pranks, gestures, physical attacks, threats, or other written (including text messaging and other forms of electronic communications), oral or physical actions. “Intentional acts” refers to the individual’s choice to engage in the act rather than the ultimate impact of the action(s).

Counseling, corrective discipline, and/or referral to law enforcement will be used to change the behavior of the perpetrator and remediate the impact on the victim. This includes appropriate intervention(s), restoration of a positive climate, and support for victims and others impacted by the violation. False reports or retaliation for harassment, intimidation or bullying also constitutes violations of this policy.

Sexual harassment is any unwanted or unwelcomed verbal, written, or physical conduct of a sexual nature that interferes with a student’s right to learn or participate in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere. Sexual harassment committed by students of either sex against students or staff of the opposite or same sex constitutes inappropriate conduct. Any student who feels that he/she has been a target of harassment or bullying or any parent who feels his/her child has been a target of harassment or bullying in school; on school property; or while participating in a school sanctioned activity should report the incident promptly, orally, or in writing, to a school staff member, preferably the principal. All complaints will be investigated by the principal or his/her designee. Depending on the nature of the offense, disciplinary action ranging from counseling to suspension or expulsion may be taken consistent with school discipline policies. An allegation of harassment or bullying and the results of the investigation shall be kept confidential to the extent reasonably possible under the investigation process. Witnesses and those interviewed shall be informed of the confidential nature of the issues and the investigation, and shall be informed that it will be a violation of this policy to disclose the allegation or the nature of the investigation to others and will be subject to disciplinary action. School officials recognize the right of every student to take reasonable actions as may be necessary to defend himself or herself from an attack by another student who has evidenced bullying or harassing behaviors. The Petal School District defines “reasonable action” as promptly reporting the behavior to a teacher, principal, counselor, or

other school employee when subjected to bullying or other harassing behavior.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Fire Drill Instructions

A fire alarm is three (3) distinct rings of the bell. When the alarm is heard, all students should walk briskly and orderly toward the designated places according to where they may be at the time of the alarm.

Each room should have two students selected to close the windows in the room at the instant of the alarm.

The teacher will be the last one out of the room and will direct the students out of the door and will close the classroom door when leaving. Before leaving, the teacher will check to see that no one is left in the room. When the alarm bell sounds, be serious, for it may be a real fire instead of only a drill.

Severe Weather Procedures

The following procedures will be followed during severe weather:

Petal School District receives a warning issued by the Emergency Management District.

Media sources including the school district website (www.petalschools.com) will be notified in the event of

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early dismissal due to severe weather. All parents are encouraged to listen to the radio or television in case of severe weather. If a severe weather bulletin is issued near the end of the school day, students may be detained at school until clearance is received from the Emergency Management District.

A parent or guardian may go to a school and sign out his/her student during such an emergency provided they sign a form releasing the school of all responsibility and liability during the emergency situation.

Tornado or Severe Weather Assignment

A severe weather alarm will be given. When this alarm is sounded, all teachers and students should move immediately to their designated places according to where they may be at the time of the alarm.

Students in the halls will sit along the walls with head on knees and hands on top of their heads. Students in the gym are to sit in the same manner along the walls and bleachers.

Cell Phone/Electronic Device Policy

At their own risk, students may bring their cell phones/electronic devices to school. The phone/device must remain on silent or vibrate at all times so as not to distract from instructional time during the school day. The teachers may declare their classrooms as “No Electronic Device Zones.” Any student in violation will receive a discipline referral. The teachers who choose to monitor the use of cell phones/electronic devices in their classrooms will be allowed to take up student’s devices when used without permission and hold it for the remainder of class. Inappropriate use of cell phone/electronic device is not allowed, and students who are defiant or refuse to comply will be sent to the principal’s office for disciplinary action. Out-going calls, in-coming calls, camera use, social media or other uses are not allowed. Violation of the cell phone/electronic device policy will be referred to the office and the student will face the following consequences: 1st offense – Warning

2nd offense and following offenses– Student will be placed on the discipline ladder and parent must pick up the device in the office.

Parents, if you have an emergency and need to contact your child, please call the office and we will contact your son/daughter. Please do not try to contact them by cell phone.

Petal schools, its faculty and staff are NOT responsible for any damaged, missing or stolen cell phones. If a student has a cell phone and it is damaged or stolen, schools WILL NOT utilize administrative time to investigate the incident nor will the District or schools take any financial responsibility for the cell phone or cell phone charges.

Parents and students must also sign and adhere to the Petal Middle School Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy.

Courtesies in the Auditorium/Gym

Special assemblies in the auditorium or gym will be called from time to time. The following rules of good manners should be kept:

Enter the auditorium/gym quietly and remain quiet during the entire program.

Give the speaker/entertainer visual attention.

Refrain from making comments that disturb others.

Applaud in a cultured and refined manner when something is enjoyable.

Never boo or whistle, regardless of an opinion.

Do not read or do any type of work during any program.

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Be seated in an assigned place.

Raise the auditorium seats when leaving for others' convenience.

Refrain from entering or leaving during any musical presentation.

Daily Announcements

Announcements will be made daily for the benefit of the school as a whole. Students, teachers or organizations desiring to have announcements made should write them in the form desired and turn them in to the principal's office. Announce-ments should be as brief as possible.

The principal must approve all announcements before they are made to the student body. All announcements should be turned in to the office before 8:30 a.m. each day.

Fundraising

Fundraising should be kept to a minimum in the school. Each club, class or organization may have only one fund-raising per semester. No fundraising will be allowed for the purchase of instructional supplies or equipment. All fund-raising project request forms are available in the principal's office.

All money collected in these activities will be receipted and deposited in that organization's account and is not to be expended on any project other than school-sponsored programs or activities. No purchases are to be made through the Student Activity Fund without the approval of the principal.

Illness or Injury

Students who become ill or are injured at school will be given basic first aid as deemed appropriate. The parents/ guardians of students who need off-campus medical attention will be notified immediately.

Lockers

Students are not to write on or attach decals to lockers. Proper handling should be used when opening and closing lockers. Students must use only the lockers to which they have been assigned. All students are responsible for keeping up with their textbooks, pencils, and other belongings. All students are encouraged to keep their lockers locked. The school cannot be responsible for items left in unlocked lockers. Only school owned locks are to be used on school lockers. School locks may be rented for one year for $2.00. The student is responsible for the lock and must return it at the end of the school year or pay $5.00 to replace it.

Lost and Found

Lost books and equipment will be stored in the office in what is known as "Lost and Found". At the end of each term unclaimed books and articles will be discarded. The school cannot guarantee the safe return of articles found. Such return is often governed by the time which lapses before claims are made and/or the honesty of the claimants.

Restrooms

Restrooms should be kept as clean as possible. Students are to use the restrooms for the purpose for which they were built. Students are not to loiter in the restrooms. Students may use the restrooms between classes, roughly every 48 minutes. If a special problem exists, even temporarily, contact the office, or in an emergency, send a note. Special permission can be arranged.

School Property; Care of

All buildings and whatever they contain in the way of equipment are provided at great expense by the taxpayers of the Petal School District. Pupils should pride themselves in doing everything possible to take care of school property and should encourage others to do so.

All paper and waste should be placed in the containers arranged for this purpose. Paper should not be thrown on the campus or floors. Any student causing damage to school property either intentionally or through neglect on his/her part will be liable for such damages.

School Property; Damages to

1. A parent/legal guardian of a compulsory-school-age child enrolled in the Petal School District shall be respon-sible financially for his/her minor child's destructive acts against school property or persons.

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2. A parent/legal guardian of a compulsory-school-age child enrolled in the Petal School District shall be respon-sible for any criminal fines brought against such students for unlawful activity occurring on school grounds or buses.

3. The Petal School District shall be entitled to recover damages in an amount not to exceed Twenty Thousand Dollars ($20,000.00) plus necessary court costs from parents of any minor under the age of eighteen (18) years and over the age of six (6) years, who maliciously and willfully damages or destroys property belonging to the Petal School District. However, this shall not apply to parents whose parental control of such child has been removed by court order of decree.

Legal Reference: §37-11-53, Mississippi Code of 1972, As Amended Senate Bill 2239, 2001 Regular Session

Signs in the Hall

Permission must be obtained from the office before signs are placed in the building. Signs may NOT be taped to any painted surface.

Telephone

No student is to be out of class at any time to use the telephone. Students may use the office telephone before school and after school. Phone calls to parents in case of emergency will be made by office personnel, nurse or administrator. All telephone messages will be held in the office and distributed at the end of the class period unless there is an immediate emergency.

MEDIA INFORMATION

Parental Permission for Media Release While the Petal School District is selective in granting media access on school campuses, the opportunity to share positive information concerning the educational experiences of students is often requested by outside agencies - local radio stations, local television stations, newspapers, and community/state agencies. This often involves videotaping or taking pictures of students in the classroom setting and/or asking students for their opinions or questions about their educational experiences. Any Petal School District student will be considered for potential participation in such publicity as approved by the Office of Public Information. All information released will be in full compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

Any parent/guardian not granting permission for their child to participate in media events must notify the school principal in writing of that request. No response will indicate that the parent/guardian releases permission to the Petal School District regarding media participation of students.

Request for Consideration of Book Removal Instructional materials, including library books, are selected to implement, enrich, and support the educational program for the student. The main objective is to provide students with a range of educational materials on all levels of difficulty and in a variety of formats, with diversity of appeal, allowing for the presentation of many different points of view. Library books are chosen by the media specialist based on the book’s educational significance; literary and/or artistic merit; favorable recommendations based on preview and examination by professional personnel; reputation of the author or publisher; or high degree of potential user appeal. Resources will be selected for their strengths rather than rejected for their weaknesses and shall be appropriate for the subject area and for the age, emotional development, ability level, and social development of the students for whom the materials are selected. Any resident or employee of the school district may formally challenge books available in the school library on the basis of appropriateness. Persons requesting removal of a book should complete an objection form available in the school office. The principal will convene a committee of at least four to consider the complaint. The committee shall consist of, at least, the principal, the librarian/media specialist, a teacher, and a PTO representative. The committee shall meet within two weeks to discuss the materials. The principal will notify the complainant and the superintendent of the committee’s decision. If the committee decides to keep the work that caused the complaint, the complainant shall be given an explanation. If the complaint is valid, the principal will acknowledge it and make recommended changes. If the complainant is still not satisfied, he/she may ask the superintendent to present an appeal to the Board of Trustees, which shall make the final determination of the issue. However, no questioned materials shall be removed from the school pending a decision of the Reconsideration Committee. Recommendations of the American Library Association will be followed for the consideration of selecting or removing resources from the school library. These recommendations are on file in the school office.

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GENERAL INFORMATION ESPECIALLY PRESENTED FOR PARENTS

1. Some students lead their parents to believe they are attending school for the day but fail to report. Parents are urged to call the school, 601-584-6301, if there are any questions concerning their child's attendance. Effort is made to contact the parent if the student actually arrives at school and then leaves without permission.

2. If a student is "sent to the office" with a written report of misbehavior from the teacher, the teacher's version is accepted unless requested investigation reveals extremely unusual circumstances.

3. The responsibility for enrolling a student and being aware of his/her daily attendance or failure to attend rests with the student and his/her parents.

4. Because of crowded conditions and heavy teacher loads, students are not allowed to bring "visitors."

5. Students may use the restrooms between classes. If a special problem exists, even temporarily, contact the office, or in an emergency, send a note. Special permission can be arranged. This represents one of the most abused student requests.

6. Parental conferences are welcome and where special problems exist, are urged. Telephone 601-584-6301.

7. A parent note does not automatically excuse a student for absence or tardiness. The reason for the absence or tardy is the determining factor. There are NO official "cut" or "skip" days.

8. Parents are notified of disciplinary action by telephone or Discipline Report. A Discipline Report is given to the student to take home and give to his/her parent. The parent is asked to sign the Discipline Report and return it to school.

9. Students will be dismissed early for doctor visits and emergencies only. In all instances, parents or their designated representatives (must be indicated in writing) will be required to come into the school to check out a student. Obviously, this may at some time be difficult, but the regulation is an attempt to provide the greatest protection possible for the student. There will be no early dismissals after 3:15 p.m. without the prior approval of the principal.

10. If special mental or physical problems exist which affect the educational well being of the student, the school principal should be notified in writing each school year. If for any reason, a parent does not want the student paddled, the administration is to be notified in writing immediately after the student's enrollment. This procedure is to be followed each school year.

11. Students may only use the office telephone before and after school. During school, phone calls to parents in case of illness or emergency will be made by office personnel, nurse or administrator.

12. Please discourage your child from wearing expensive jewelry or bringing to school any valuables not necessary such as money, toys, etc. If your child brings to school any valuables for legitimate reasons such as "show and tell", he/ she should deposit the item with his/her teacher or in the principal's office until needed.

13. Students may not film other students, faculty or staff on school grounds or at school activities or post videos or pictures of other students, faculty or staff on the internet without administrative approval.

14. Fees may be waived for students who qualify for the free lunch program pursuant to the USDA annual free lunch income eligibility guidelines. The waiver of fees applies to classroom materials and classroom supplies. Fees for extra-curricular activities such as band, show choir, athletics, etc. are not covered. To request a fee waiver, each parent or guardian must complete the Fee Waiver Certification Form within one week of enrollment for a financial hardship (free or reduced) waiver of fees. The information provided in compliance with the financial hardship law (§ 37-7-335 MS Code) shall be kept in the strictest confidence and shall be used solely for the purpose of determining the student’s eligibility for the waiver of fees by the school district.

15. For an 8th grade student to be considered for 9

th grade Honors Biology, the student must have at least a final

average of 95 and a teacher recommendation.

16. Students are not allowed to receive flower or balloon deliveries at school.

This book is a general guide for the benefit of students and parents. It does not attempt to answer all questions that might arise during the school year. Students are welcomed and encouraged to seek advice and information from teachers and principals.

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Child Nutrition Program

Breakfast will be served in the cafeteria. Students eating breakfast are expected to be in their respective homerooms on time. The "offer versus served" breakfast program requires four menu component choices to be offered to all students daily, but a minimum of three components must be selected.

The cafeteria offers a variety of lunch menus which includes sandwiches, salads, and hot line choices. The "offer vs. served" program which states that five component choices are offered daily but a minimum of three components must be selected, is observed by students eating lunch.

CHILD NUTRITION PROGRAM MEAL RATES

Breakfast Lunch

Reduced .30 Reduced .40

Full Pay 1.75 Full Pay 2.75

Adult 2.00 Adult 3.25

Payment for meals cannot be combined with other school expenses. Returned checks are referred to Invision, which specializes in check recovery. Inquiries regarding student account balances shall be made to the cafeteria manager. Refunds from advanced payments for students who withdraw from school will be made if a written request is submitted to the Child Nutrition office by June 1st.

It is the parent's responsibility to track the child's nutrition account. Account balances, positive or negative, roll over at the end of each school year. Students in grades seven and eight have limited charge privileges. They are allowed to charge for the day and repay the loan the following day. Students are not allowed to charge any supplemental sale items (ice cream, juice, etc.). Parents will be contacted, if necessary, when the student borrows money excessively.

The Petal School District uses the Family Free and Reduced Price Meal Application. Only one form per family which lists all family members must be completed each year.

Petal School District offers automated prepayments of meal accounts via the telephone or internet. Parents may log on to MyPaymentsPlus for FREE or telephone 1-866-615-6503.

Free registration gives you 24/7 access to:

Student cafeteria balances and purchase history

Prepayments for breakfast/lunch, with auto-pay capability

Low balance e-mail reminders

AP exam registration and payment

On-line open house and orientation

Summer school registration and payment

Other fees and activities such as yearbooks, uniforms, field trips and more!

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Students who bring lunch from home may purchase water and milk products only. Extra sales of individual components of the meal are limited to those students who have purchased a complete meal. Students should not purchase extra food for those who have not purchased a plate.

Competitive food items will not be sold, delivered to or brought to the school campus during normal school hours. Regulations governing the federal lunch and breakfast program permit substitutions for children with milk allergies. A statement from a recognized medical authority supporting the milk allergy must be submitted to the cafeteria to be kept on file.

All students are to remain on campus during the lunch period. No one will be permitted to leave the campus to eat his/her noon meal, regardless of the distance traveled. Students may either eat in the school cafeteria or bring their lunches. Students are reminded that other classes are being held while they are out for lunch and therefore, students who are out for lunch are not to go into the area where classes are in session.

When eating a meal in the cafeteria:

Trays should be picked up quickly to avoid delaying the line. No one should crowd or try to get ahead of others by coming through the side door.

All milk cartons and debris from the tables should be removed and taken to the trash containers so that tables will be clear for others.

Pleasing manners should be used at all times.

Carbonated beverages in original containers are not allowed in the cafeteria at any time.

Trays and glasses should not be removed from the cafeteria.

All teachers and students are urged to take advantage of the well-balanced meals served on the non- profit basis. To ensure that students are not in the position of having to decide between non-nutritious and nutritious foods, no food items will be sold on the school campus one hour prior to or during any meal service period. Please call the

Child Nutrition Office at 601-545-3020 for further information concerning these products.

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TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR

NETWORK USAGE

Use of district-provided access to the Internet in the Petal School District will be regarded as a privilege and not a right. Students interested in accessing the Internet through the district-provided access must first obtain permission to use the equipment from a Petal School District instructional staff member such as the student's teacher, support staff member or another member of the school's administrative or teaching staff. It is expected that student access to the Internet will be structured in ways which point students to those resources which have been evaluated prior to use. However, parents must realize and understand that students will be capable of moving beyond the known resources to others that have not been previously viewed by staff, and which may not be educationally related or otherwise appropriate in the school environment. The teaching staff will endeavor to monitor access to and use of these resources, but it must be clearly understood by parents, guardians, and the community at large that there can be no absolute assurance that students will restrict their use to only educationally related, school appropriate sources.

All student users of the district-provided Internet access are expected to exhibit behavior, while engaged on-line, consistent with the standards established in the PSD policy on school discipline. All users, whether students or staff, who use the district-provided access to the Internet and who engage in conduct in violation of the acceptable use standards established by PSD will be subject to having their access privileges suspended and/or revoked consistent with the school's authority and responsibility to maintain discipline in the schools. With the use of district owned, school-based computers, users shall not have or claim to have any expectation of privacy with regard to the storage of files or information. In that regard, the use of memory and storage in connection with district-provided access to the Internet will be treated like school lockers. The professional staff may review all files and message exchanges on the systems in order to maintain system integrity and ensure that users are acting responsibly and consistent with the acceptable use standards.

Regarding the acceptable use standards, the following uses of the district-provided Internet access are not permitted: a. Transmitting, uploading, downloading or otherwise accessing abusive, hateful, degrading, demeaning, derogatory or defamatory materials, information or communications, b. Transmitting, uploading, downloading or otherwise accessing pornographic, obscene, sexually explicit, indecent or vulgar materials, information or communications, c. Vandalizing, damaging, disabling or gaining unauthorized access to another person's property, files, data or materials, d. Engaging in any commercial or business activity, e. Transmitting, uploading or downloading any material in violation of copyright protections, f. Engaging in any other activity contrary to any local, state or federal laws, rules or regulations.

Before being permitted use of the system, students, parents, school personnel and other users will be asked to sign a statement agreeing to abide by the above guidelines. A violation of the above guidelines for acceptable use of the internet access will result in disciplinary action including possible loss of Internet access privileges. By providing the means to access the Internet using PSD owned and school based equipment, it must be clearly understood that PSD makes absolutely no warranties of any kind, expressed or implied, about the Internet or the nature, quality or accuracy of the information accessible through the district-provided access to the Internet, and PSD will not be responsible for any loss occasioned as a result of using this service including loss of data resulting from delays or interruptions in service. In addition, PSD will not be responsible for the accuracy, nature or quality of informa-tion stored on school diskettes, hard drives, or servers. Further, PSD will not be responsible for loss or damage to personal property used on the school based computers in connection with the use of the district- provided access to the Internet. Finally, PSD will not be responsible for any unauthorized, personal expenses or financial obligations incurred as a result of use of the district-provided access to the Internet.

The superintendent is authorized to develop additional rules and regulations to implement the purpose and intent of this policy.

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THE FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA) PETAL SCHOOL DISTRICT

ANNUAL NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS TO PARENTS AND ELIGIBLE STUDENTS

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) provides that a Local Educational Agency (LEA) that receives U.S. Department of Education funds must annually notify parents and eligible students of their rights to:

Inspect and review education records

Seek to amend education records

Consent to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from educational records except as specified by law

In accordance to FERPA, Petal School District (PSD) operates under the following policies and procedures:

Parents and eligible students may inspect and review education records through the appropriate school office. Current photo identification must be presented with signed and dated documentation requesting such.

The procedure to request amendment of education records is initiated through written request by the Parent/Eligible student to the Superintendent's office specifically stating the reason for the request. This request will be presented to the Local School Board for further investigation.

PSD identifies a school official as any certified personnel employed by PSD. School Officials are then identified by building principals, and their names and positions are posted on the secure location of educational records. PSD does not disclose personally identifiable information from education records unless permission to disclose is specified by or Parent/Eligible student has given written consent.

Parents/Eligible students who believe their rights have been violated have the right to file a complaint with:

Family Policy Compliance Office (FPCO) U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20202-5920

Or by web site - www.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco

ASBESTOS SURVEILLANCE OF ALL SCHOOL BUILDINGS

As part of an annual notification, we are informing all persons of their option to review the asbestos management plan, which would include documentation of any changes of asbestos containing material in these schools.

To provide continuing management of the asbestos in our school, all asbestos containing materials (ACM) are inspected every six months by an engineering firm from Jackson, MS. Any changes in the ACM are being recorded in a surveillance report as part of the management plan.

The three-year re-inspection of our school buildings has been performed as required. A copy of the re-inspection has been filed with the State Department of Education.

A copy of the surveillance and re-inspection reports, along with a copy of the management plan, is located in the principal’s office at each school. In addition, a copy of all management plans for the district is maintained in the superintendent’s office located at 115 Highway 42, Petal. Any interested party should feel free to go to any of these locations to review these reports.

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STUDENT HEALTH SERVICE-MEDICATON JGCD

1. Administration of medication is foremost the responsibility of the parent/guardian. All medications that can be given outside of school hours without serious effects must be given before or after school.

2. The FIRST dose of any medication must be given at home in case there is an allergic reaction.

3. School personnel/nurses are not responsible for giving missed or late home doses of medication.

4. All medication that the student is receiving in the school setting will be recorded on the student’s medication record.

5. Prescription and non-prescription medication will be administered only if: a. The appropriate school medication administration form is completed including doctor’s signature,

parent/guardian signature, child’s name, name of medication, amount of medication needed, route of administration, and time of administration.

b. Any prescription medication that is ordered only once or twice daily must be given at home and will not be administered at school unless the school receives a letter from the physician explaining why the medication must be given at school instead of home.

c. Prescription medication must be in the pharmacy container with a label which includes the student’s name, physician name, name of medication, strength, dosage, time interval, and route.

d. Over-the-Counter medications (Tylenol, Advil, cough drops, etc.) must be clearly legible. All over-the-counter medications must be supplied by the parent/guardian. The school WILL NOT supply any medications. PLEASE NOTE: All medications to be given at school will now require a physician’s signature on the school form: NO EXCEPTIONS!

e. The information on the medication form and on the medication bottle must be the same.

6. Medication will NOT be accepted in household containers, envelopes, or baggies.

7. Medication will not be given from a teacher’s own personal supply.

8. A new medication form must be completed and signed for each medication or change of medication order. A new form with doctor’s orders and signature must be signed at the beginning of each school year even if the medication is continued from one year to the next.

9. Grades K-12 students’ medications, both prescription and non-prescription, must be brought to school by an adult and given to the school nurse, not a secretary.

10. Medications cannot be transported on the school bus.

11. No Petal School District employee/agent of the school will be responsible for administering any medication on field trips or school-sponsored events.

12. The proper disposal of unused medications is important, and it is the responsibility of the parent to obtain all unused medication from the school when it is discontinued, the school year ends, or the student transfers to another district. All medication left in the school under these conditions will be disposed of by the school nurse or delegate.

13. Students may keep diabetic medications with them at all times if given permission from the parent/guardian, physician, school nurse and the school receives all appropriate forms from the parent and physician.

14. Students may keep their asthma inhalers with them at all times; however the parent/guardian must meet the following requirements: a. Provide written authorization for self-administration to the school; b. Provide a written statement from the student’s health care provider that the student has asthma and

has been instructed in self-administration of asthma medications. The statement should also contain: 1) the name and purpose of the medication; 2) the prescribed dosage; 3) the time or times the medications are to be regularly administered and under what special circumstances the medications are to be administered; 4) the length of time for which the medications are prescribed.

Petal School District and its employees and agents shall incur no liability as a result of any injury sustained by the student from the self-administration of asthma medications. Upon fulfilling the requirements of this section, a student with asthma may possess and use asthma medications when at school, at a school-sponsored activity, under the supervision of school personnel or before and after normal school activities while on school properties including school-sponsored child care or after-school programs.

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WELLNESS GOAL

All students in the Petal School District shall possess the knowledge and skills necessary to make nutritious food choices and enjoyable physical activity choices for a lifetime. All staff in the Petal School District is encouraged to model healthful eating and physical activity as a valuable part of daily life.

To meet this goal, the Petal School District adopts this school wellness policy with the following commitments to nutrition, physical activity, comprehensive health education, marketing, and implementation. This policy is designed to effectively utilize school and community resources and to equitably serve the needs and interests of all students and staff, taking into consideration differences in culture.

PETAL HEALTH CLINIC

The Petal School District has partnered with the Southeast Mississippi Rural Health Initiative (SEMRHI) to provide the students of the district with affordable and convenient health care. The Petal Health Clinic is located on Stadium Drive and can be used by any student currently enrolled. The clinic is staffed by a SEMRHI nurse practitioner and nurse and is open 7:30-4:00 year round. Students wishing to use this service must complete a registration form and health history. The clinic can be reached at (601)450-2144 or by fax at (601)450-2145.

BEDBUG POLICY

In general, schools are not conducive to bed bug infestations. Bed bugs prefer an environment where they can hide during the day and come out at night to feed on a sleeping host. Because bed bugs can travel in belongings, school employees are trained to identify bed bugs and the signs of bed bugs in the classroom and the student’s items. Staff will notify the school nurse and/or an administrator of suspected bed bug introduction and the designated procedures for dealing with bedbugs will be followed. If bed bugs are found or students are experiencing skin conditions that might be associated with bed bug bites, parents of the affected student(s) will be notified. After and inspection of the affected school area, it may be necessary to investigate the student’s home setting. Parent will be provided with information about bed bugs as a means to assist with the prevention and management of bed bugs in their home.

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Drop-Off and Pick-Up Procedures

A.M. DROP-OFF

Drive into parking lot and turn to the right around the shrubbery. Pull into lane # 1 (ONLY) and proceed

down to *school personnel. The first five vehicles may unload. NO student may unload in front of the

office. After drop-off and once past the crosswalk you may either stay straight and exit to the right on to

Central Avenue or turn left and proceed through the parking lot and exit to the right on to Old Richton

Road.

Anyone needing to conduct business in the office needs to proceed to the parking area and cross the

traffic at the crosswalk. PLEASE wait on the teacher on duty to safely escort you across the traffic lanes.

P.M. PICK-UP Drive into parking lot and turn to the right around the shrubbery. Pull into lane # 1, # 2 or # 3. Proceed

straight to crosswalk. Lane # 1 MUST stay straight and exit to the right onto Central Ave. Lane # 2 will

merge into lane # 1 and MUST exit to the right onto Central Ave. Lane # 3 MUST pass the crosswalk

then turn left and proceed through the parking lot and exit to the right onto Old Richton Rd.

Petal Middle School Auditorium

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The purpose of this handbook is to inform students and parents/guardians of the policies and procedures of Petal Middle School. Students and parents/ guardians will be able to avoid confusion and misunderstanding by being familiar with the contents of this handbook.

Cell Phones/ Electronic Devices: I have read the cell phone and electronic device policies for Petal

Middle School and understand it is my responsibility to insure my student’s cooperation with these

policies. (See the school cell phone and electronic device policy on page 30 of this handbook)

Pictures and videos: Students may not film other students, faculty and staff on school grounds or at school activities or post videos or pictures of other students, faculty and staff on the internet without administrative approval. Medication policy: I have read the medication policy at Petal Middle School and understand it is my responsibility to obtain all necessary paperwork before my child can receive medication at school. (See medication policy on page 34 of this handbook) Network Responsibility: As the parent or guardian of this student, I have read the Terms and Conditions for use of PSD network services. (See page 32 of this handbook) I understand that these privileges are designed for educational purposes. I will not hold PSD responsible for material acquired or problems related to the use of the material required on the network. I hereby give my permission for my child to utilize the PSD network services information that will be obtained by the teacher and certify that the information contained on this is correct. Further, I accept full responsibility for supervision if and when my child’s use is not in a school setting. All fines including Textbooks must be paid in accordance with policy. 2013 Legislation-House Bill 1530: The act shall take effect and be in force from and after July 1, 2013. School attendance and absenteeism; standardize for compulsory attendance law and ADA calculations under MAEP. *Revises the definition of the terms “Minimal School Term” and “Average Daily Attendance” as such terms are used for determining allocations to school districts under the Adequate Education Program *Provides that a compulsory-school-age child who is absent more than 37% of the instructional day must be considered absent the entire day. A compulsory-school-age child with documented participation in an activity authorized by the State Board of Education shall be considered present for purposes of determining and reporting attendance for average daily attendance. (HB 1530, 2013)

We, the undersigned, have had the opportunity to review the policies, procedures and expectations as outlined in the Petal Middle School Student-Parent Handbook. We further understand that it is the responsibility of the student and of the parent/guardian to abide by the policies, rules, procedures and expectations set forth in this handbook.

Please sign this form and return to your child's first period teacher within five days of viewing the handbook.

_______________________________________ _____________________ PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNATURE DATE

_______________________________________ _____________________ STUDENT SIGNATURE DATE

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Petal Middle School Principal, Michael Hogan 601-584-6301

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Petal Middle School Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Policy 1. BYOD refers to student-owned mobile devices. This policy encompasses all electronic devices

used on campus including those owned by the student and those provided by the school. 2. A student-owned mobile device is a non-district supplied device used while at school or during

school or district-sponsored activities. 3. Student use of personal electronic devices require adherence to the Acceptable Use Policy of

Petal School District. 4. School district IT department is not responsible for the maintenance and repair to personal

electronic devices used under the BYOD policy. The school district is not responsible for damaged, lost or stolen devices used under the BYOD policy.

5. Student use of electronic devices is for educational purposes and done at the discretion of the teacher.

6. Student use of electronic devices must not disrupt the learning environment of the classroom. 7. Students may not use an audio recording device, video camera or camera (or any device with

one of those, e.g. cell phone, laptop, tablet, etc.) to record media or take photos during school unless they have permission from both a staff member and those whom they are photographing or recording.

8. Personal electronic devices shall be charged prior to bringing it to school and shall be capable of running off its own battery while at school.

9. Access to the WiFi is for Internet access only. No access to other network resources is provided. 10. Students not following the above stated guidelines will be prohibited the use of personal

electronic devices.

Digital Code of Conduct 1. Students will only use images that are appropriate and have legal permission to use (i.e. in the

public domain or original). 2. Students may not post photos or videos showing themselves or classmates without their

permission. 3. Students may use posts to discuss school-related content only. 4. Students must use a respectful tone of voice when posting. All school rules and consequences

related to harassment apply. 5. Students must use appropriate grammar, punctuation, etc… (No texting language etc….) 6. Students may not use posts to promote personal causes, websites or chat rooms. 7. Students may not reveal any personal information online. This includes telephone numbers,

addresses, emails, etc…

Failure to follow these policies will result in school consequences. Parents, please sign below to confirm that you have received the above policy with your son/daughter. Students, please sign to confirm that you will abide by these policies then return this letter to your 1st period teacher. Student Name & Signature________________________________________Grade____Date________ Parent Name & Signature__________________________________________________Date________

Technology use plays an integral part of students’ lives. In order to meet increasing demand of 21st Century learning, Petal Middle School has instituted a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program. Personal mobile devices allowed in the classroom include cell phones, Smart phones, iPods/iPads and tablets with internet capabilities.