Ingomar Middle School
North Allegheny School District     Pittsburgh, PA      "Reaching for Our Best ... Together"

North Allegheny School District

Our mission . . .
is to prepare students to become contributing, responsible citizens by delivering an outstanding educational experience in a positive learning environment through a comprehensive curriculum,  highly dedicated staff, community involvement and a commitment to responsible decision-making in the pursuit of excellence.

Ingomar Middle School

Our mission . . .
is to create a safe, positive school climate in which we effectively educate students in the intellectual, physical, emotional, and social aspects of life, provide opportunities for students to recognize and develop their innate talents and empower students to become responsible, independent learners. 

In order to achieve our Mission, we commit to:

• Providing a balanced curriculum
• Accommodating a variety of learning styles
• Developing current technological skills
• Promoting high self-esteem
• Fostering responsible citizenship
• Encouraging active participation
• Engaging in professional staff development training
• Developing an open partnership between school and community

PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE......................................           

            We welcome you to Ingomar Middle School for the new school year.  We hope the year will be a successful and enjoyable experience for you in all your endeavors.  Our goal for the coming year is one of mutual respect and self-respect.  We can achieve that goal by working together.

            We want to help you develop your abilities to the highest degree and practice good citizenship at all times.  Cooperation with fellow students, teachers, and parents will be the KEY to success at Ingomar. You will be asked to give service to others, develop quality relationships, and build an academic record of which you will be proud.

            This handbook should be a guide to help you become acquainted with our school.  We request that during the first week of school you read the handbook with your parents.  You will also discuss the handbook with your teachers in classes and homeroom.  The handbook serves as a guide to explain the policies and procedures used at Ingomar Middle School.  Please read it carefully.

            With best wishes for a very great educational experience, we welcome you to another exciting middle school year.

                                                             Ingomar Middle School Administration

                                                                 Mrs. Tammy A. Andreyko, Principal
                                                                 Mr. Brian R. Miller, Assistant Principal

SCHOOL COLORS - Black and Gold
SCHOOL MASCOT – Tiger

It will take the best in each of us
to make the best world for all of us.

Coming and Going

Ingomar Middle School is open to students each school day from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.  Students arriving before 8:00 a.m. should report to the cafeteria foyer, where supervision is provided.

8:00 A.M.     
Students report to their assigned homerooms. Those students who have obligations to fulfill in another section of the building must secure a hall pass from their homeroom teacher.

8:10 A.M.      LATE BELL
Students who arrive after 8:10 a.m. should report to the office with a valid written excuse for their tardiness.  A tardy admission slip will be issued by the office.  It must be presented to the classroom teacher of the period in which the tardiness occurred and should be given to the homeroom teacher at the end of the day.  For every third unexcused tardy to school, and every unexcused tardy thereafter, students will be assigned one detention.  There are only three reasons recognized as valid excuses for tardiness:               
                1.     Severe weather conditions
                2.     Bus transportation difficulties
                3.     Personal accident or illness

2:58 P.M.      DISMISSAL
Students who are not involved in a supervised activity should not remain in the building.

EARLY DISMISSAL
For a student to be dismissed early,  a parent or guardian must send the student’s homeroom teacher an excuse. The teacher will initial the excuse and forward it to the office. Students waiting for transportation should wait in the office area or in the foyer by the front office AFTER THEY HAVE CHECKED OUT IN THE OFFICE.

SAFELY - DROP OFF/PICK-UP STUDENTS
Parents who drive their children to Ingomar Middle School must remember to drop off their son or daughter at the lower foyer and gym entrances. This rule is particularly important between 7:55 a.m. and 8:10 a.m., especially on snowy or rainy mornings when buses must have clear access to unload our students and be on their way to the next assignment. We have had frequent safety concerns when cars try to pull out from between buses.  DO NOT BLOCK THE BUSES AT THE LOWER ENTRANCE.

WALKERS
Students who walk to school are asked to arrive at or after 8:00 a.m. Standard safety practices are just as important to students when walking as when riding the bus. Students must have written permission to walk to and from school if the district provides bus transportation.  Please practice the safety guidelines listed below:

    1.     Always walk to the left of the road, facing traffic.
    2.     Walk in single file; step off the road when traffic approaches from either direction.
    3.     Walk only on public thoroughfares, not on private property.
    4.     When on school property, use designated roads and stay on the sidewalk in front of school.

BICYCLES
Bicycles may be ridden to school if the student has presented his/her parent’s written permission to the office. Students and their parents assume responsibility for the bicycles when brought to school. Students should keep their bicycles in the area provided.

SKATEBOARDS AND SCOOTERS
Skateboards and scooters are NOT to be ridden to school under any circumstances. If a skateboard or scooter is confiscated from a student,  it will  not be returned to the student. The confiscated item will be returned to the student's parent.
 

Buses

Approximately 90% of the students ride the bus to school. The safety of all students while maintaining a regular schedule is of prime importance. Safety procedures are maintained through organization and good citizenship. The responsibility for bus safety rests with all persons involved.

Students are to ride ONLY THEIR ASSIGNED BUS. Requests by parents for special permission for a student to ride an alternate bus must be made in writing to North Allegheny's Transportation Department and then approved by the principal. These requests must be made no later than the morning of the specified trip.

 A list of bus stops is published before school begins.  Students should arrive at the stop at least 5 minutes before the scheduled time. ALL STUDENTS SHOULD WAIT A MINIMUM OF THIRTY (30) MINUTES BEFORE LEAVING THE STOP AREA.  Parents should use their discretion in the length of time students wait for the bus in bad weather.  If parents choose to use their discretion, they must also provide the necessary transportation to school.

 If normal transportation is not available after thirty minutes, it is suggested that parents assume the responsibility for transporting the student(s) to school.

APPROPRIATE BUS CONDUCT
Students riding a school bus are subject to the direction and control of the school bus driver.  If you leave your seat while your bus is in motion, extend part of yourself outside the bus, throw objects, or distract the driver in any way, you could cause a serious accident.  If you jeopardize the safety or welfare of yourself or others on a bus, you could lose riding privileges or even be excluded from school.  These rules apply at all times: during transport to and from school, during field trips and while riding to and from class, special activities and sporting events.

Rules posted on the bus shall be followed. THE DRIVER HAS COMPLETE AUTHORITY. A student’s behavior when riding, boarding, exiting, or waiting for buses must be beyond reproach. THE FOLLOWING CONDUCT IS PROHIBITED ON SCHOOL BUSES:

1.     Smoking
2.     Using vulgar or profane language
3.     Fighting/pushing/shoving
4.     Damaging seat and/or other parts of bus
5.     Damaging/breaking windows
6.     Not remaining seated while bus is in motion
7.     Not keeping all parts of body inside bus and feet on floor
8.     Eating/drinking
9.     Getting off bus at other than own stop
10.   Loud, boisterous conduct
11.   Littering or Throwing objects from /on bus
12.   Late at bus stop constantly
13.   Not crossing in front of bus
14.   Bringing pets or flammable materials aboard the bus
15.  Listening devices (walkmans, tape players, etc.)

Students are encouraged to be cooperative with the bus driver and/or principal in giving information concerning bus misbehavior.

Students will be assigned a seat by the driver.  A student must give his/her name and address to the driver when requested.  Two students must permit a third student to sit with them.

BUS VANDALISM POLICY
All vandalism must be reported to the driver. If your seat is damaged, and you did not report it to the bus driver, you will be held responsible.  If your seat has been damaged and you know who did it, you must report them or be held responsible yourself. If the bus driver upon inspecting the bus after your departure finds damage in your seating area, YOU  will be held responsible if you didn't report it.  ANY STUDENT WHO DAMAGES A BUS IN ANY MANNER, INTENTIONALLY OR UNINTENTIONALLY, WILL BE CHARGED FOR THE DAMAGE.

Video cameras will be used again this year on school buses to support student safety to and from school. Students may be videotaped at any time.
 

BUS DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES
Any action which threatens the safe operation of the bus may be cause for disciplinary action or suspension of bus privileges. Under normal circumstances, the following chain of discipline will be followed:

• First Offense.................................. Warning
• Second Offense............................. Detention; meeting with the Assistant Principal
• Third Offense..................................Bus School / Suspension (3 day minimum)

If a student's behavior is such that it endangers the safety of the riders, this chain of discipline will be escalated accordingly. Three bus suspensions may result  in exclusion from the bus for up to a school year.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

DUE TO WEATHER CONDITIONS
If an emergency weather condition exists, communication will be made immediately through the Public Address (P.A.) system if possible. Proper instructions and procedures will be made at that time.

It is very important that everyone cooperate by listening carefully, remaining calm, and following instructions.
 

FIRE DRILLS
Instructions for using exits are posted in each room.

Certain rules are necessary to make these fire drills a success:

1. The fire alarm will ring. The principal will provide the all-clear signal.

2. All drills should be orderly and talking must be kept at a minimum. This enables good communication if an exit is blocked.

3. Students should return to the room in the same order as they left.

4. Where several groups of students are leaving by the same door, each side of the hall should have a line moving. The lines should be maintained at all times. First students in line should hold the doors open.

5.  All personnel should leave the building during a drill.

6. Where fire blocks are established, alternate exits should be used. Please be aware of the alternate exits. Plans for emergency blocked accesses are as follows:

• Teachers in the rooms who leave the building first, should always lead the lines.

• If fire block exists, the teacher will take the alternate route designated.

• Fire extinguishers are marked by the blue lights in the hallways.
   

SCHOOL DELAYS/CLOSINGS
Emergency school delays or closings will be broadcast over radio station KDKA (1020AM).  The 24-hour district NewsLine, 412-369-5510, will also carry the information beginning at 6 A.M.

KDKA  (1020AM)

When a delay in the opening of schools is made, the time for opening will be two (2) hours from the regularly scheduled bus pick-up time. Each school will follow a regularly scheduled opening, based on the adjusted time schedule. On days that have a delayed starting time, schools will be dismissed at the usual time.  Notice will also be posted on North Allegheny’s website at:

http://www.northallegheny.org

Regular and punctual attendance at all school sessions is important if students are to have successful school careers.  Absences from school may be "LEGAL" or "ILLEGAL". Please read the following attendance information carefully.
 

LEGAL ABSENCES
Legal absences fall into the following categories:

1. Student illness or death of  immediate family member, as defined in School State Register Code.

2. Absences of students as approved by the Administration (other urgent reasons).

Any student whose absence falls within the above categories may have the opportunity to complete any assignments upon returning to school. Students who know they are going to be absent under the circumstances listed in this section should obtain or complete assignments before the absence occurs.

WRITTEN EXCUSES
For all absences, parents or guardians are required by law to send a written statement explaining the reason for the student’s absence. A student’s excuse is to be sent to the homeroom teacher.

 SAMPLE EXCUSE

                                                                 Date _________________

  Dear (Teacher),
            (Student's name) was absent on (date/dates) because of (reason).

                                                                 Signed ___________________________

ILLEGAL ABSENCES
If an absence is illegal, students ARE NOT PERMITTED TO MAKE UP WORK. The consequence for a first offense illegal absence will be at the discretion of the building principal.  Second and subsequent offenses will result in a suspension and possible referral to the district magistrate.

Illegal absences fall into the following categories:

1. Truancy

2. Absence  through parental neglect

3. Illegal  employment

4. Vacations (see “Vacations” section)
    

TARDY TO SCHOOL
When late for school, the student must have an admission slip.  (See page 6 - “8:10 A.M. Late Bell” for more information).

 CLASS CUTS
Students are expected to attend AM/PM homeroom and all classes as scheduled. Failure to report to an assigned area is considered a class cut.

                First offense…..... 1 detention for each missed homeroom/class period
                Second offense… 1 day of in-school suspension

When late for class, the student must have an admission slip. Lateness is determined by the classroom teacher.  Students who are tardy to class without an admission slip may receive a misconduct card or detention.
 

PERFECT ATTENDANCE POLICY

1. The North Allegheny School District allows four (4) excused tardies, early dismissals, or a combination of the two, not to exceed four.

2. All-day school-related activities (out of the building) are always recorded as days attended in the students’ records; therefore, they do not count as absences.

3. All-day absences (that are not school-related) will  disqualify students for perfect attendance recognition.

4. Exceptions to the policy in regard to all-day absences include:  religious holidays, court subpoenas, family funerals, and pre-approved religious retreats that include educational components.  Parents must request any of these exceptions.
    

MAKE-UP WORK
For day-to-day absences, follow your teachers’ procedures for make-up work.  All make-up work for absences of one week or more must be completed within two weeks after returning to school. If the work is not completed, a failing grade will be recorded. Make-up work is the student's responsibility.

IMS HOMEWORK WEB SITE
Students and parents can remain up-to-date on assignments and tests by visiting the IMS Homework Page.  This page will list the daily homework each teacher has assigned, as well as test dates, projects due, and other important information.

To reach this web site, go to www.northallegheny.org, click on the Schools button, select Ingomar Middle School, click on Homework Page, then choose a teacher’s name. Teachers are listed by grade, team, and subject.

The purpose of this web site is not to replace students’ daily organizers and notes, but rather to provide a means for parents and students to verify assignments.  It can be particularly helpful for students who have been absent from school, or for those who require additional assistance in terms of study habits.

HOMEWORK REQUESTS
When students have been absent for two days or more and it is clear that they will be absent for at least one more day, parents may request homework assignments from the teachers.  A call for these assignments should be placed to the school office by 3:30 P.M. during the second day of the absence so that the parent can pick up the homework by 3:15 P.M. on the THIRD day of the absence.  Parents are discouraged from expecting another student to take their child's assignment home.

STUDENT VISITORS
Student visitors are permitted if a request has been submitted at least one week in advance to the principal and if it is approved.  Students from local districts are not permitted to visit.  NO STUDENT VISITORS WILL BE PERMITTED DURING THE FIRST AND LAST TWO WEEKS OF SCHOOL OR THE DAY PRIOR TO OR FOLLOWING ANY VACATION.
 

VACATION DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR/

EDUCATIONAL TOUR OR TRIP (Form available in School Office)

 The North Allegheny School District encourages full compliance with the compulsory attendance provisions set forth in the regulations of the State Board of Education of Pennsylvania and the Public School Code of 1949, as amended.  Provisions may be made for absences which excuse students from compulsory attendance for a tour or trip which may be considered educational in nature. Such an excuse should be considered a privilege and not a right.  The granting of an excuse from compulsory attendance is within the sole discretion of the school district.  This policy is designed to foster better school/student relationships rather than excessive absence.  Please note that the application form for tour or trip must be submitted at least 14 days before a trip is scheduled to begin. If there are compelling reasons why 14 days’ prior notice is not possible, the parent should communicate them directly to the principal.  Copies of the application can be obtained from the main office.  Instructions to help you comply with the policy for educational trips are listed below.           

Educational Tour or trip procedure —

1.  Request for Excuse
The parents or guardians of a student who wish to have the student excused from compulsory school attendance in order to participate in an educational tour or trip must submit an application to the principal of the school in which the student is enrolled.  Except for emergency situations, which must be fully explained, this request must be submitted to the principal at least 14 calendar days prior to the date on which the student seeks to be excused from compulsory attendance. 

2.  Administrator’s Discretion
The principal of the school shall exercise discretion in determining whether to excuse the student from compulsory attendance.  Teachers' concerns and recommendations receive primary attention as this determination is made.  Consideration shall be given to the length of  the tour or trip, the number of requests made during the school year, and whether the educational tour or trip is likely to advance the educational growth of the student.  It is the  practice of the North Allegheny School District to discourage excused absences for educational tours or trips during the final two weeks of any school term. However, if permission is granted for an educational tour or trip, any part of which will cause the student to be absent during the final 14 calendar days of any school term, the building principal shall permit the student to make up examinations administered during the last two weeks of the term if, in the judgment of the building principal, the facts of the case so merit. 

3.  Assignments
Upon approval of request by a parent, guardian, or student, teachers shall submit a list of student assignment/responsibilities for the period of absence during an approved educational tour or trip. Assignments/responsibilities may be made either prior to the absence or upon return to school. All assignments/responsibilities which are to be completed shall be submitted to the teacher(s) upon return to school or within a reasonable period of time as designated by the teacher(s). Incomplete assignments/responsibilities may result in a failing grade. 

4. Return to School
The student shall return to school on the first scheduled school day after the excused absence or date previously specified by the building principal.

 5. Failure to Comply
A student who does not use this avenue or, after being denied an excuse, persists in unexcused absence from school, shall be considered in violation of the compulsory attendance requirements set forth in the Public School Code of 1949, as amended, and shall earn a failing grade for the assignment/responsibilities made during the period of  absence. A student who, after being granted an excuse, fails to complete the assignments/responsibilities within a reasonable period of time as designated by the teacher, shall  earn a failing  grade for the incomplete assignments/responsibilities.
 

PROGRAM OF STUDIES
The middle school program tries to provide experiences that match your interests and abilities. The program also includes certain experiences required by the state of Pennsylvania.

 Your teachers and guidance counselors  will help you when possible to choose the best set of experiences for you. If major changes in your schedule are recommended, your parents will be asked to discuss the changes with your teachers and/or guidance counselor  before they are made.

CURRICULUM INFORMATION

GRADE 6

Full Time Courses
English
Mathematics  or Integrated Math I
Reading (Developmental)
Physical Science/Health
Social Studies

Part Time Courses
Physical Education / Music
Unified Arts (Art / Technology Education/ Family & Consumer Science -12 weeks each
Electives: Band, Orchestra, Chorus, General Music

GRADE 7

Full Time Courses
English
Mathematics or Integrated Math I or II
Life Science
Social Studies
Reading (Developmental) / Health

Part Time Courses
World Languages: French, German, Latin, Spanish
          (Two 9-week Exploratory Languages are scheduled)
Physical Education/Music (A/B Day Schedule)
Unified Arts  (Art / Technology Education / Family & Consumer Science ) - 6 wks. each
Electives: Band, Orchestra, Chorus, or General Music

GRADE 8

Full Time Courses
English
Mathematics, Integrated Math I or II
Earth/Space Science
Social Studies
World Language: First year French, German, Spanish or Latin

Part Time Courses
Physical Education/Music
Unified Arts (Art/Technology Education/Family & Consumer Science ) - 12 wks. each
Electives: Band, Orchestra, Chorus or General Music
Note:  Students required to take Reading do not take Foreign Language.

REQUIREMENTS FOR GRADE PLACEMENT
At the end of each nine or twelve week period, students will be given a report card to take home and review with their parents. The letter grade for each subject is an evaluation of how well the student has met the requirements of the course. All courses are graded using A, B, C, D, or E.

Parents are asked to sign and return report cards before they are returned to homeroom teachers.
 

EXPLANATION OF GRADING
The letter grade for each subject is an evaluation of how well your child has met course requirements. An explanation of these letters is given below. Courses using these symbols are not used to compute the honor roll or scholastic improvement. Absence is also recorded on the report card.

Following are the letter grades and what each means:

                A     Superior Achievement (90 - 100%)
                B     Work is consistently above average quality expected (80 - 89%)
                C     Average achievement (70 - 79%)
                D     Achievement is below average (60 - 69%)
                E      Achievement is not acceptable; student has not met requirements (less than 60%)
                I       Incomplete work, grade withheld
                O     Indicates outstanding ability to grasp and use the materials being taught
                P      Certain courses are graded on “Pass” or “Fail” basis only. Such courses are not
                        included in class ranking
                S      Represents a degree of mastery of the subject  and/or a willingness to cooperate
                        with teachers
                U     Unsatisfactory achievement in the subject
                X     Medical excuse
                W    Withdrawal

Students will not pass to the next grade if they fail in two or more full-time subjects or one full-time subject and two or more subjects that are taken part time. (No consideration for credit will be given to the subjects failed.)
 

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY POLICY

The educational focus of the North Allegheny School District is to continue to maintain and preserve the highest expectations and academic standards for its students.

Student Responsibility
Students have the responsibility to respect the intellectual and academic property of self and others.

Parent Responsibility
Parents have the responsibility to require their children to maintain high personal standards of academic involvement by producing original quality work.

Teacher Responsibility
Teachers have the responsibility to teach, monitor, and maintain academic integrity by requiring quality original work by each student.

 To that end, professional staff members should provide written and oral notification of the evaluation procedures and actively provide a positive, safe learning environment.

Violations
The following practices are considered to be violations of the Code of Conduct in the area of academic integrity. "Any attempt to receive and/or give unauthorized assistance from either printed or recorded aids or materials from any person or another's work."

This includes, but is not limited to, improper use of District or personal technology, such as computers, calculators, and other electronic devices that applies to Board Policy 2500, Use of Computers.

In addition, students re-submitting work to different classes and academic areas verbatim and without modification, editing or other appropriate changes is also considered to be a violation.
 

INTERIM REPORTS
At the mid-point of each grading period, teachers will inform students of their academic standing. If a student is failing, or has dropped two letter grades since the previous report, teachers must notify the student's parent(s) or guardian(s) by mail. The interim reports are mailed to the student's home. The interim report mailing schedule is indicated on the district calendar.

HONOR ROLL
Academic achievement will be recognized at the middle schools by placement on the Honor Roll.   The students' names  will  be displayed on the school bulletin board in the Main Lobby. At the end of the year, certificates will be presented to students for academic excellence. Eligibility for the Honor Roll is determined as follows:

        1.     No student will be eligible who has a grade below a “C” in any subject

        2.     All graded subjects will be given equal weight.

        3.     Honor Roll membership is determined on a quality point average of 3.40.
(Determine number of quality points for each quarter by multiplying each subject grade by the  numerical equivalent of the grade received; then divided by the number of subjects.)

        4.     Students must be on the Honor Roll three times to receive a certificate at the end of the year

P.I.A.A.  ACADEMIC, ATTENDANCE, and CURRICULUM REQUIREMENTS

        1.     The student athlete must pursue a curriculum defined and approved by the principal as a full time curriculum.

        2.     The student athlete must be passing at least four (4) full-credit subjects or the equivalent thereof as of each Friday during a grading period.  Failure to meet this requirement will result in the loss of a student’s athletic eligibility for the following week (Sunday through Saturday).

        3.     The student athlete must have passed at least four (4) full-credit subjects or the equivalent thereof during  the previous grading period.  Eligibility for the first grading period is based on final grades from the preceding school year.  Failure to meet this requirement will result in loss of a student’s eligibility for the first twenty (20) school days of the next grading period.

        4.     A pupil who has been absent from school during a semester for a total of twenty or more school days shall not be eligible to participate in any athletic contest until he has been in attendance for a total of sixty school days following the twentieth day of absence, except where there is a consecutive absence of five or more school days, due to confining illness, injury, or quarantine.  Such absence may be waived from the application of this rule by the district committee, if a thorough and complete investigation warrants such waiver.  Attendance at summer school does not count toward the sixty days required.

                Absence from school for an entire semester, or for several semesters, shall disqualify a pupil for the same period as stated in this section. 
 

ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS
Awards for outstanding achievement in the special subject fields and activities are given each year. These awards are in the form of a certificate and are based on ability, service, reliability,  and citizenship.

Certificates will be given to the students chosen. These awards will be signed by the sponsor and principal. Each year during May and June, special achievement award presentations will be made to deserving students. Teachers in the area of achievement will present the students with the awards. A brief explanation of the basis of the awards will precede the presentation.

The list of students should be confidential and provided to the office at least a week before the award presentation. The areas of achievement include, but are not limited to:

Art
Library Assistants
Family and Consumer Science 
Audio-Visual
Student Council
P.A. Announcers
Office Assistants
Geography Bee
Music - Instrumental, Choral, & Orchestra                        
Science Fair
Physical Fitness
Spelling Bee 
Newspaper
American Legion                                 
World Language
 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION - REGULATIONS
Each  middle school has a physical education program which offers a variety of activities to both boys and girls.  The program emphasizes physical fitness, individual and team sports, recreational activities, and good sportsmanship.

The state requires each student to participate in physical education courses unless excused by a doctor or other accepted authority.  The excuse must be written by the physician or recognized authority on his or her letterhead or prescription form, stating the specific reason for the exception, indicating the types of activity that would be appropriate, and designating the exact time interval for which the excuse is meant to apply.  The excuse then becomes a part of the child's health file maintained by the school nurse.

Participation of the student in activities outside of the school day, such as intramurals, interscholastic sports, gymnastics, dance, swimming, martial arts, or similar physical activities, while laudable, is not a justifiable or acceptable reason for a parent to request that a child be excused from physical education.  Likewise, any student excused from P.E. may not participate in extracurricular activities for the same period.  If your child has sustained an injury which has not been treated by a physician, but which you would like to call to the attention of the physical education teacher, you may write a note describing the problem.  This will allow the physical education teacher to exercise good judgment in adapting the student's participation in the lesson for the day.

The physical education teachers will notify students at the beginning of the year as to the type and cost of uniforms which are appropriate.  Clothing worn in physical education must fit properly so as not to restrict movement; must be free of hazards that could cause injury, such as hooks or abrasive surfaces; and must be designed to protect the modesty of the individual middle school child and his or her peers.  Students may not intentionally wear saggy shorts that expose underwear at the waist, or baggy shorts that expose underwear underneath.

Students lockers in the locker room also will be assigned.  All students have the responsibility for locking their lockers. Only school locks which are sold at school are permitted to be used. Once purchased, they are the permanent property of the student. The school is not responsible for lost, stolen, or mislaid articles. Every effort to protect student property will be made.  Students are only permitted in locker rooms with specific permission from the instructor.

NO “HORSEPLAY” IS PERMITTED IN THE GYM, LOCKER ROOMS, OR SHOWERS!
 

P.E. PROCEDURES FOR COLD/INCLEMENT WEATHER

The following is a policy developed in 1994-95 through a Key Communicator/Physical Education TEACHER FOCUS GROUP.

        1) No outdoor classes in consistent rain.

        2) Responsibility for proper dress - Parent/Child/Teacher

•  Uniform (at all times and all weather)
•  When temperature is less than 60 degrees:

1 - sweatshirt
1 - sweatpants/sport pants (no jeans)

        3) No outdoor classes or activities.

•  temperature and/or wind chill less than 20 degrees

        4) Illness

•  one/two days - note from parent needed
•  extended - doctor's excuse needed
•  other - notify nurse of any health factor influencing P.E. activity.
 

GUIDANCE SERVICES

WHAT CAN THE GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT DO FOR ME?

The Guidance Department provides services for all students through the counselor’s office and homeroom teacher. Students may request conferences with your counselor to discuss either academic or personal problems.

Counselors can provide service in the following areas:

    1.     Making progress in the various school subjects, activities, and solving personal problems.

    2.     Making a choice of courses and electives which will prepare you for making a vocational or professional choice.

    3.     Acquainting students with the various occupations and requirements to pursue them.

    4.     Choosing extracurricular activities so that leisure time is used beneficially.

    5.     Developing desirable personal characteristics which will help make better citizens.

    6.     Adjusting to new school  surroundings.

    7.     Developing satisfactory social behavior.

    8.     Learning how to obtain information through good study habits.

    9.     Helping students develop inter-personal relationships on the basis of mutual respect.
 

PERMANENT RECORDS
Each student has a permanent record folder which contains all information about the student’s school experience from first through twelfth grade. It includes name, date of birth, schools attended, the year entering each school, final grades in each subject, achievement records and attendance. This information is available upon request from the Guidance Office. Students may review their personal record folder with written permission from parents. Other student records may be reviewed by your parents, if they call the Guidance Office to set an appointment.
 

GUIDANCE APPOINTMENTS
How do you see your counselor?  Appointment slips may be filled out in the guidance office. Your counselor will return them to you with a time for an appointment.
 

WITHDRAWING FROM SCHOOL
Students should notify the Guidance Office one week prior to their last day of attendance and obtain a Release of Records form. This form must be signed by parents and returned to the Guidance Office. On the last day of attendance, the student must come to the Guidance Office during the morning homeroom period to obtain a Withdrawal Notice form. Each teacher is to sign this form indicating all obligations have been fulfilled. This should be completed by noon and returned to the Guidance Office for final clearance so any problems may be resolved before the end of the day.

GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT
Phone: 412/369-5475

COUNSELORS                                   GUIDANCE SECRETARY
Mr. Jim Brunetti (A-L)                      Mrs. Mary Jo Patton
Mrs. Lynne Earley (M-Z)
 

STUDENT ASSISTANCE TEAM
The Student Assistance Team (SAT) seeks to promote a healthy, safe environment in which all of our students can grow and learn to their greatest potential.  Difficulties from a variety of  sources sometime develop that impede the attainment of these goals.  Early identification of students evidencing difficulties interfering with their learning is the primary emphasis of the Student Assistance Team.  Each middle school has a Core Team staff (comprised of administrators, counselors, and teachers) trained to help educate teachers in identifying students who may be experiencing difficulties in learning.  The SAT acquires data from teachers, students, parents, administrators, and other staff members.   The SAT then assesses the severity of the student difficulty and makes  recommendations to the parents, staff, and the student regarding ways to improve the child’s growth in learning.

Since the beginning of the program, the Student Assistance Team has helped students with health problems, depression, drug abuse, eating disorders, a negative attitude towards authority, and a variety of  academic problems.  If you desire more information regarding the SAT and its function, please call the building administrators or counselors

WHAT DO I DO IF I’M SICK?
Some of the nurse’s duties include rendering first aid to injuries occurring in school, advising students in regard to health problems, excluding students from school who show signs of illness or symptoms of a communicable disease, and counseling.

To Go to the Health Room, You ...

1. Report to your next class before going to the Health Room.  Stopping between classes is not permitted.

2. Must have a pass from a teacher giving permission to go to the Health Room.

3. Sign your name and arrival time in the Registry Book.

4. Cannot remain in the Health Room  longer than one period.  If you do not feel well after one period, the nurse will send you home.

MEDICATIONS
Medications will be administered by the school nurse to students who have physician's orders and a parent permission form.  Students are not allowed to carry any medications for any reason on his/her person during the school day.  Medications being transported to school for the school nurse to administer must be brought to the health room immediately upon entering the school building. 

REQUIRED EXAMINATIONS
Dental examinations are required for all seventh grade students. Those students who have not received an examination by their family dentist will be scheduled for an examination by the school dentist. Auditory tests will be given to all seventh grade students and a visual test and measure of height and weight will be made annually to all students.

Physical examinations will be required of all sixth grade students and all students involved in cheerleading and interscholastic sports. Any student who has not received an examination by his/her family physician will be scheduled for an examination by the school physician.

IMMUNIZATIONS
The following immunizations are required of all children in Pennsylvania for attendance at school:

            •  At least 4 doses of diphtheria/tetanus vaccine (one dose must be on or after the fourth birthday)

            •   3 doses of polio vaccine

            •   3 doses of Hepatitis B vaccine

            •   2 doses of measles vaccine, preferably a MMR vaccine

            •   One dose each of mumps and rubella vaccine, preferably as MMR vaccine

            •  Varicella (chicken pox) immunity from either: vaccine or history of the disease or laboratory testing (7th grade students)

Please consult the school nurse for specific requirements concerning these vaccinations. Parents may also access health services information at:

http://www.northallegheny.org/academic/Health/

LIBRARY SERVICES

WHEN CAN I GO TO THE LIBRARY?
Library hours are from 7:30 A.M. to 3:30 P.M.

YOU MAY COME TO THE LIBRARY:

1.     Before homeroom
2.     After school
3.     During a regular class period
4.     During an activity period FOR  REFERENCE WORK

YOU MAY BORROW:

Books                                     Magazines
Encyclopedias                      Pamphlets
Pictures                                  Filmstrips
Records                                  Cassettes

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

1.     Return material on time
2.     Pay for lost or damaged material
3.     Do not misuse or abuse library material

FINES - RETENTION OF REPORT CARDS
Students are responsible for items that are loaned to them by the library. In the event that library materials are lost or damaged, the student will be charged a fair assessment based on school policy for the lost or damaged item. In the event the student does not meet the financial obligations, the report card will be held until the responsibility is taken care of to the satisfaction of the school. Every effort will be made to work cooperatively with the student and parent so that the obligation will be met.

POLICY
Students found deliberately stealing materials from the library or otherwise removing materials without proper authorization will:

1. Be subject to the North Allegheny Code of Conduct Level III, for petty theft; and

2. Be restricted from free access to the library for up to 90 school days from the time of the incident. Restrictions will include:

1. Materials may not be signed out.

2. Students  may not enter the library unless part of a class.

3.  If class comes to the library, student will have an assigned seat and research or reading materials will be provided.
    

FOOD  SERVICES

WHERE DO I EAT?
Lunch is served daily in the cafeteria. The school provides this as a service for the students and the food is great!  Lunch may be purchased from the cafeteria or brought from home.  Bring your own money each day if you wish to purchase lunch.  A plate lunch including drink and fruit costs $1.65.  You may not have lunch delivered to the school from commercial establishments.  Students who bring their lunch from home must eat in the cafeteria.

CAFETERIA PROCEDURES
Lunchtime also provides you with an opportunity to relax and enjoy the company of your friends.  Please help to make a difference at Ingomar Middle School by remembering to use good manners and by following these rules: 

1. Walk, in an orderly manner, to lunch and when in the cafeteria.

2. Put all books or binders on the shelves provided in the cafeteria foyer. They should not be taken to  your table.

3. Use a tray, even if you pack a lunch.

4. Stay in single file while waiting for service.

5. Treat yourself, your classmates, the cafeteria workers, and cafeteria supervisors with respect.

6. Cutting in line is not permitted.  (Teachers are permitted to move in front of the line due to their responsibilities at the beginning and end of classes).

7. Refrain from combing your hair in the cafeteria.

8. If you pack your lunch and choose to bring your own beverage, use only cans, paper cartons, or  sealed plastic containers for safety reasons.

9. Use good table manners.  Sit while eating and socialize without shouting.  Keep your hands to yourself.  Never throw anything.

10. As soon as you finish eating, clean up after yourself, push in your chair, and return your tray.

11. You may return to your seat or go outside if the weather permits.  Stay on the patio, not on the  sidewalks or grassy areas.

12. The cafeteria and patio are for socializing.  Please talk in conversational tones.  Respect each other's space.  Running kicking, punching, and acts of affection are examples of inappropriate behavior for these areas.  These activities cannot be justified by saying, "We were just fooling around!"

13. Students may use the phone at lunch time to make needed calls.  Only one person is to be at  the phone at a time.  Phone calls are not to be received on public phones during lunch time.

If you violate cafeteria rules, you will be assigned cleanup duties.  Persistent offenders will be subject to further disciplinary action.
 

STUDENT INSURANCE
Student insurance may be purchased during the early weeks of the school year. As a board policy, insurance is required for the interscholastic program. All students will be given a brochure listing the benefits of the Student Accident Policy.  The policy covers all activities sponsored by the school, including intramurals. This policy is recommended, since the school district does not carry personal accident insurance on each student. If you do not choose to carry the Student Accident Policy, check your own personal insurance policies to see if your child is adequately covered.

ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES
Eligibility guidelines apply to all students who participate in extracurricular activities. Students involved in the activities listed below should check with their sponsors for specific guidelines.

1.     A.V. Crew
2.     Library Aide
3.     Office Aide
4.     P.A. Crew
5.     IMS Press
6.     Student Council
7.     Talent Show Participants

Sponsors and coaches provide the staff with a list of all participants at the beginning of the activity. Every three weeks (sooner if necessary) teachers are to review the lists to determine if any participants are failing. The name of the failing student is SUBMITTED TO THE OFFICE. When the office determines that a student is failing two or more subjects, the office will  then notify the sponsor/coach who, in turn, will remove the student from the activity (including practices) for a MINIMUM of three weeks. At the end of this period, if the student's name is not submitted to the office, he or she will be reinstated in the activity.

If the student feels he/she has made sufficient progress after ten school days, the student may request an early reinstatement by writing a letter to the teachers and having the letter signed by the sponsor/coach. If approved by the sponsor/coach, the student will submit the letter to the teachers. The teachers will respond to the request by writing “Approved” or “Disapproved,” signing the letter, and submitting it to the office.

STUDENT COUNCIL
The Student Council is important to the organization and operation of the school. The Student Council sponsors many activities of the school and has a voice in its operation. All students should take an active interest in the Student Council and see that the homeroom representatives who are elected are the best qualified to serve. Homeroom representatives will periodically report on the actions of Student Council to their homeroom constituents.

The  Student Council organizes and sponsors many activities.  Some of the more visible are:

Canned Food Drive             Dances
Magazine Campaign            Staff Appreciation

STUDENT COUNCIL DANCES
Students attending dances are subject to all rules and regulations included in the Student Handbook and the Code of Conduct.  In order to maintain and promote the “Middle School Family” environment, the following guidelines have been established for Student Council dances:

1. Middle School dances are only for students of Ingomar Middle School.

2. Appropriate dress which follows the Middle School Standards of dress is required.

3. Information about the dance will be given over the P.A. during the school day.  This information should be shared with parents.

4. Students should not arrive more than fifteen minutes before the dance is scheduled to begin.

5. Any student coming to the dance one half hour after the dance has begun will not be admitted.

6. Students are not permitted to leave the dance early.

7. Parents/guardians should arrange for timely transportation at the conclusion of each dance.

STUDENT COUNCIL ELECTIONS

        1.     Candidates for office must be in 7th grade.

        2.     Any candidate having three (3) or more separate detentions during the year will not be eligible.

        3.     Students campaigning for office need to obtain signatures of their classmates on petitions according to Student Council bylaws.  Candidates' speeches will be a MAXIMUM of 3 minutes.

        4.     Candidates are permitted only two (2) campaign posters. These must hang in the cafeteria foyer and be taped to the bricks. Maximum size is 2' x 3'; ALL posters must be stamped by the vice-president before posting.

        5.     Candidates are responsible for removing their posters after the elections.

        6.     Sandwich boards are permitted only on the day of the election.

        7.     Students WILL NOT sign petitions during class time.

        8.     No edible items may be distributed during campaigns.

        9.     Nominating speeches will  be  one (1) minute in length.

        10.   Any student (6th, 7th, or 8th grade) may nominate a candidate.

        11. Elections will be held in May.

SPORTSMANSHIP
Conduct at all games is based on sportsmanship. Coaches and staff have been proud to sponsor young athletes who practice good sportsmanship, WIN or LOSE. Spectators are also expected to reflect this positive position.

Sportsmanship means ...

        1.     Winning without boasting; losing without excuses.

        2.     Accepting officials’ decisions gracefully.

        3.     Applauding opponents for their efforts; not booing, hissing, or making annoying or

                abusive remarks.

        4.     Competing fairly, playing according to the rules.

        5.     Playing the game for its own sake, not for what winning will bring.
 

BEHAVIOR OF STUDENTS AT EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
North Allegheny School District and Western Pennsylvania Inter-Scholastic Athletic League accepts and expects exemplary standards for students at extra-curricular activities, both in their participation and as spectators.  Any behavior which is a violation of North Allegheny Code of Conduct, WPIAL, and/or student handbook or school rules will earn an appropriate response which is in keeping with the Code of Conduct.

Minor Misbehavior will result in a range of responses from correction to removal from the activity and/or disciplinary consequences.

Behavior which endangers the health, safety, and welfare of students and/or others, may result in detention or suspension and a social probation--suspension from all extra-curricular activities for a period up to 90 days.

Students placed on social probation are restricted from attending all school-related events as a spectator and all social activities.  They will be permitted to participate in athletic or co-curricular activities for which they have qualified.

Behavior which is not only a violation of school policy or endangers the health, safety, and welfare of others, but also violates the law, will result in application of Code of Conduct consequence, with the student being restricted from attending extra-curricular activities throughout the 90 days and a complaint filed with the police and/or magistrate.
 

ATHLETICS
Both intramural and interscholastic athletic programs are available to students. The intramural programs are designed to provide both boys and girls an opportunity to refine skills, which are introduced in Physical Education courses, and further individual training and conditioning. Intramural programs are offered in accordance with student participation and interest.

Various interscholastic programs are available for boys and girls in grades 7 and 8. W.P.I.A.L. rules prohibit 6th graders from participation. Members of interscholastic teams are selected by the respective coaches based upon the physical and emotional maturity of the student and level of skill development. BUSES WILL BE PROVIDED FOR ALL INTERSCHOLASTIC PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS. All interscholastic participants are required to meet eligibility regulations.

AVAILABLE ACTIVITIES
In keeping with the school philosophy, a Comprehensive Student Activities Program is implemented to supplement classroom activities and to give everyone an opportunity to express interests they may have outside the classroom. The types of mini-course/activities will differ somewhat each year depending upon the interests of the students. The activities program begins in October.

A.V. CREW
The purpose of this group is to help in the distribution and operation of audio-visual equipment.

CHEERLEADING
The purpose of the cheerleading program is to build school spirit, to encourage good sportsmanship and to support our middle school athletic program. The cheerleaders cheer for all home games and several away games. They also participate in Pep Assemblies and other activities.

LIBRARY AIDE
This service group is made up of students interested in devoting time during school to working in the library. The students assist the library staff with the many duties involved in making the library a pleasant place for students and staff.

OFFICE AIDE
The Office Aides are students who volunteer their time to help in the school office. These students are assigned certain duties and responsibilities that help the secretaries and make the office more efficient.

P.A. CREW
This group will deliver the morning announcements.

SCHOOL NEWSPAPER
This group of students publishes the newspaper each year. Students will have an opportunity to be considered for the newspaper staff.  Specific procedures will be shared with the students.

TALENT SHOW
The school Talent Show is presented at the end of February each year. Its purpose is to give students an opportunity to display their talents in song, dance, instrumental music, and comedy. Students also learn many facets of stage production. Everyone works together to produce an outstanding show.
 

ATHLETIC ACTIVITIES

FALL SEASON

Boys / Girls Cross Country                Football
Cheerleading                                         Girls Basketball
Fall Awards Assembly                        Boys/Girls Soccer
Girls Field Hockey

WINTER SEASON

Boys’ Basketball                                  Cheerleading  
Winter Awards Assembly                  Wrestling

SPRING SEASON

Baseball                                                 Girls’ Softball
Boys’ / Girls’ Track                              Cheerleading
Spring Awards Assembly                   Girls' Volleyball
Girls Lacrosse

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

YEAR LONG

Audio-Visual Crew                              Office Aides
Chorus                                                   Pep Assemblies
Newspaper                                            Library Aides
Public Address Crew                           Production Crew
Student Council                                  

FALL SEASON

Canned Food Drive                             Colonial Fair
6/7 Grade Flag Football                       Mini Course Day
Welcome Back Dance                         Magazine Campaign     
6th Grade Street Hockey                     Student/Faculty Volleyball Game

WINTER SEASON

Basketball                                              Talent Show
School Spirit Week                               Weight Training
Wrestling                                               Winter Dance
Student/Faculty Basketball Game       G.O.L.D. Overnight

SPRING SEASON

6th Grade Appreciation Day              Art  Show
7th / 8th Grade Softball                       Spring Dance
End-of-Year Dance                              Volleyball
6th Grade Softball                                Benefit Run
Street Hockey                                       Achievement Awards Assembly

The "Philosophy of Middle Schools" found on the next several pages provides the rationale for why we have established the procedures, rules, and regulations you have just read about.  Please take a few minutes to read through it.

It is followed by helpful information such as parent communication and voice mail procedures.

THE PHILOSOPHY
Middle schools will designed originally to help boys and girls as they leave childhood and enter adolescence.  The rapid growth spurts, changes in attitudes and feelings, and the high energy state common to students in grades six, seven and eight are outward evidence of each individual’s need to expand his or her personal world through new interests, new ideas, and new responsibilities. At North  Allegheny, the teachers, students, parents, community, and curriculum work together to create interesting and varied experiences that constructively guide, reinforce, and foster creativity in students as they explore their changing world and their changing selves.

With the teacher serving as a resource and providing direction and encouragement, students will practice and try to master basic reading, writing, listening, speaking, computing, researching, and problem-solving skills.  As students meet the challenges of both short and long-term assignments, they also will practice and develop a sense of self-discipline by acquiring good study skills, completing assignments on time, and accepting responsibility for their own learning.  The school stands ready to assist students and parents in making relevant judgments, discriminating among values, and establishing  priorities in any area that affects the student’s educational  progress.

Through department, team, and grade level meetings, the professional staff will exchange ideas, needs, and perceptions designed to improve the scope, sequence, and articulation of students’ schooling.  Teachers try to match learning experiences and reinforcement activities with students’ readiness at a given time, to detect and resolve difficulties, and to share with parents mutual concerns that may affect the child’s learning or welfare.

In the middle schools, basic skill development and exploratory opportunities are emphasized in the program.  In addition, students are expected to increase their own positive self-concepts and to develop traits of good citizenship.  The goals that enable our middle school program to achieve these ends are:

INTELLECTUAL DEVELOPMENT
To provide opportunities for students to explore and to develop their abilities in the areas of basic mathematics and the fundamentals of written and oral communication.  Emphasis is placed on the critical thinking processes which include conducting research, translating and presenting findings, drawing conclusions, and making decisions.

AESTHETIC GROWTH
To provide experiences in the humanities that encourage students to develop aesthetic and cultural appreciation and to support students as they seek to confirm their personal development and value system. 

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
To encourage students to adopt a positive philosophy of life, to develop respect for individual dignity, to assume personal responsibility for their own actions, and to understand and accept others.

EMOTIONAL GROWTH
To provide support for students in learning to cope with their experiences, whether positive or negative, and to provide experiences that help students better to understand and to accept themselves. 

PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT
To develop the habits necessary to maintain good health and hygiene, and to develop and reinforce appreciation of, and skill in, the range of physical motion, from gross body movements to fine motor skills.

EXTRA CURRICULAR INVOLVEMENT
To provide opportunities for students to participate in a variety of school-supported activities.

CURRICULUM PHILOSOPHY
It is our aim to keep the curriculum  up-to-date.  We live in the present and future, but we should always be appreciative of the past.  The specific goals for our curriculum are:

                •   To develop a respect for learning.

                •   To develop skills of communication and self-expression.

                •   To develop the ability to see the relationship of ideas through the use of critical thinking, logic, and the scientific method.

                •   To develop effective study and work habits.

                •   To make all efforts to maintain an uninterrupted educational program.

                •   To maintain high standards of physical fitness during this period of extensive body development.

                •   To develop an appreciation or facility in the fine and practical arts, since these contribute to the enrichment of life.

                •   To provide a program of coordinated activities.

                •   To guide students in an understanding of self in preparation for a good, responsible life.

We believe these goals should be developed at the Middle School in all areas of instruction, especially in reading, writing, speaking, listening, spelling, and logical thinking.  Students should see the close relationship between what they are learning in one subject with what they are learning in every other subject.

Each student needs a command of certain mental, physical, and manual skills which are important to continuing health and to confident participation in life.

We believe that counseling and guidance are an integral  part of the regular program of the school.  Guidance and counseling serve the needs of the entire student body.  Counselors help guide both individuals and groups of students toward understanding themselves, their abilities, limitations, and potential.

TEAMING AND SCHEDULE PLACEMENT

The team concept was developed when the middle school was first organized.  Using teacher input the teams are developed in the sixth and seventh grades.  The academic teachers work together to provide the strongest possible personal and instructional support for students.               

In sixth grade, students are placed on two-, three-, or four- teacher teams.  Each team is representative of the range of students in the entire grade, but the small team setting provides a secure environment in which the students can get to know each other and their teachers very well.  Even more important, the teachers get to know the students very well.               

In seventh grade, the teams usually are composed of four or five teachers, sometimes more, but a larger setting in which students can expand their horizons and assume more personal responsibility while still under the close scrutiny of the teaching team. 

In eighth grade, students are scheduled in a departmental fashion, providing a greater degree of independence that helps prepare students for the transition to the intermediate high school.  The entire eighth grade staff meets periodically as a team to review the needs of individual students.  Although informal communication does occur among the eighth grade staff regarding students' academic progress or behavior, the structure provided by teaming is not part of the eighth grade setting.

Regardless of grade level, teachers, counselors, parents, and administrators all work together to provide support and guidance to every middle school child. 

REQUESTING A TEACHER
As a rule, requests to have or not to have a certain teacher or team cannot be honored.  Proposals not to have a specific teacher will only be considered if a verifiable prior conflict with that teacher is outlined in a written request to the building principal.  This policy is set forth to protect the class size and fair distribution of students and resources.

 "They never tell me anything..." is a myth!

KEY COMMUNICATORS
Each year a group of parents, known as  Key Communicators, is organized by the principals.  During the school year, the Key Communicators will meet several times with the building administration, not only to discuss school programs but to keep them informed on the pulse of the community in reference to our Middle Schools.  Membership is open to any parent willing to accept the responsibility to attend the meetings.

The Goals of the Key Communicators are:

        1. To help Communicate the various programs and philosophy of Middle Schools to the public.

        2. To unlock those doors where help is needed in understanding Middle Schools better.

        3. To act as a sounding board for the community.

SCHOOL VOLUNTEERS
The Middle Schools have a very active parent volunteer program which supports our library, classroom teachers, club program, social events, field trips, and other activities.  The volunteers are organized during the month of September by our librarian.  A special letter will be sent home via your son or daughter requesting you to sign up if you have an interest.  We sincerely hope you will be able to join us as a volunteer.

PARENTAL CONFERENCES
It is firmly believed at the Middle Schools that parents should be as interested and informed in the student’s progress as possible.

When problems of an emotional, social, or academic nature arise, it should be of mutual concern; parents, as well as the school, should communicate about the problem.  Conferences with parents are always successful when there is a reciprocal appreciation of the efforts of both parties to solve the problem with understanding. 

The purpose of any conference is to clear up misunderstandings, then to recognize and channel the resources and energy that will help the student to be successful.

INTERIM REPORTS
Special “Interim Reports” are sent home midway between report periods in each subject when communication regarding academic progress is needed.  Interim Reports may be used to indicate outstanding progress or failing work.  Our main purpose is to keep parents informed, to recognize the improvements students have made in certain areas and to stimulate those students who might fail unless they put forth a greater effort.  We encourage everyone to work to the limit of his/her potential.

Parents are encouraged to respond to the “Interim Report” as quickly as possible.

INFORMATION, PLEASE . .
On several occasions through the past school years, we have had discussions regarding parental communications, routing of phone calls, and informing parents of the appropriate people to contact regarding their various concerns.  When parents contact the school with personal concerns we should always encourage them to reach a solution at the level closest to where the problem originated at the building level.

The following are examples of parental concerns and the manner in which the calls might be directed:

Concern                                        Person Referred to..........

Grade                                               Teacher who issued grade 

Discipline                                         Teacher who issued detention (Asst. Principal/Principal if concern remains) 

Placement                                        Guidance at the beginning of the year; Teacher / guidance at mid-year

Peer Problems                                  Guidance/ Asst. Principal/Principal

New Student                                     Guidance

At-Risk Student                                Guidance/Principal/SAT

Homework                                       Teacher/Guidance 

Homework requests due to illness      Secretary 

Bus Discipline                                  Bus Monitor / Asst. Principal / Principal

General Transportation                    Guidance / Bus Garage

Teacher Complaint                          Principal and teacher as appropriate

Medical                                            Nurse

Tutoring/Homebound                       Guidance

Work Permits                                  Secretary 

Vacation/Ed. Trip Requests              Secretary 

Program/Curriculum                         Principal

Extra-Curricular Activities               Sponsor / Coach/ Asst. Principal /  Principal / Athletic Director as necessary