Grinnell Middle School

Student Handbook

2015-2016

Grinnell Middle School 132 East Street South Grinnell, Iowa 50112 Phone: 641.236.2750 Fax: 641.236.2732

http://www.grinnell-k12.org

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Welcome Welcome to Grinnell Middle School. The following student handbook will provide you with general information regarding procedures and expectations here at GMS.

Grinnell-Newburg Mission Statement

The Grinnell-Newburg School District, in partnership with the entire community, will empower every student to become a life-long learner who is a responsible, productive and engaged citizen within the global community.

Grinnell Middle School Vision Statement

Grinnell Middle School is a caring, collaborative, and innovative community of faculty, staff, students, parents, and citizens that share responsibility for the personal and intellectual growth of all members. The vision of Grinnell Middle School will be to provide a safe and respectful environment that successfully transitions students from elementary school to high school by teaching them the necessary academic, social, and physical skills.

Grinnell Middle School: Philosophy of Education:

Students at the middle level, grades 5-8, have distinct physical, social, emotional, intellectual, aesthetic, and moral needs. The Grinnell Middle School program is designed to meet the changing needs of each individual and to provide a transition between elementary and high school education. The GMS staff must address these needs using a team approach and, in cooperation with other school personnel: Area Education Agency consultants, school board members, parents, students, and our community. These various groups, functioning cooperatively, have created a middle school program with an attitude that:

• Recognizes the distinct needs of young adolescents based on many developmental changes. • Assumes students experience a continuum of academic and social stages, which guides educators to

develop programs that meet the varying needs of students. Building and reinforcing student skills and exploring increasingly abstract concepts in a rigorous academic climate accomplish this.

• Assumes that students will need to learn to organize their thinking and ability to gain knowledge. Given this opportunity, students will become increasingly independent in the information age.

• Encourages an organizational structure that directs the energy and vitality of young adolescents toward the realization of their potential.

Grinnell Middle School will provide:

• A positive, caring environment, towards learning while promoting the total well being of students. • A strong academic program of interdisciplinary, child-centered activities. • An exploratory program, which helps students, becomes knowledgeable in a variety of subjects. • A flexible organization including a schedule which helps meet the individual needs of students and allows

for cooperative planning and teaching. • An activities program that develops the various abilities and interests of students in transition to be lifelong

learners. • A safe, wholesome school climate based on participation in our Guidelines for Success; and

communication among students, staff, parents, and community.

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Table of Contents: Office Hours and Contacts Academic Achievement

• Advanced Math Classes -- p.6 • Common Grading Scale – p.6 • Grade Reporting – p.6 • Homework – p.7 • Honor Roll – p.7 • Inclusion – p.7 • Promotion/Retention/Acceleration (board policy 505.2) – p.7 • Standardized Tests – p.7

Attendance

• Attendance Procedures – p.7 • Excused Absences (board policy 501.9) – p.8 • Leaving School Grounds – p.8 • Make Up Work – p.8 • On-Target – p.8 • Student Passes – p.8 • Tardiness – p.8 • Unexcused Absences (board policy 501.10) – p.8

Discipline

• Behavior – p.8 • Restitution Time – p.9 • Displays of Affection – p.9 • Disrespect to Staff – p.9 • Disruptive or Inappropriate/Insubordinate Behavior – p.9 • Fighting and Physical Violence – p.9 • Guidelines for Success: Conduct Expectations for Common Areas – p.10 • Classroom – p.10 • Study Hall – p.10 • Media Center – p.10 • Computer Use – p.10 • Office – p.10 • Assemblies – p.10 • Cafeteria – p.11 • Hallways and All Other Building Areas – p.11 • Harassment (board policy 104) – p. 12-14 • Expulsion (board policy 503.2) – p.14 • In-School Suspension (8:00-3:10) (board policy 503.1) -- p.15 • Out-of School Suspension (board policy 503.1R) – p.15 • Suspensions and Special Education Students (board policy 503.1R) – p.15 • Theft/Stealing – p.15 • Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs (board policy 502.7) – p.15 • Vandalism/Care of School Property (board policy 502.2) – p.16 • Violence or Threats of Violence – p.16

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• Weapons Policy (board policy 502.6) – p. 16

Extracurricular Activities

• Academic and Behavior Eligibility Policy – p. 16 • Attendance Eligibility Policy (board policy 501.9) – p.17 • Athletic Activities – p.17 • Eligibility Requirements (board policy 503.4) – p.17-21 • Student Council – p.22 • Use of District Facilities (board policy 905.1) – p.22

Health and Safety

• Abuse and/or Harassment of Students by Employees (board policy 402.3) – p.22 • Child Abuse Reporting – p.22 • Communicable and Infectious Diseases (board policy 507.3) – p. 22 • Emergency Drills (board policy 507.5) – p.22 • Illness or Injury at School – Student (board policy 507.4) – p.23 • Life Threatening Allergies – p. 23 • Medicines Administered to Students (board policy 507.2) – p.23 • Physicals for Athletics – p.23 • School Nurse – p.23

Routine Procedures and Information

• Announcements – p.23 • Assemblies – p.23 • Bicycles – p.24 • Book Bags – p.24 • Bus Behavior – p.24 • Use of Video Cameras on School Buses – p.24 • Cell Phones and Electronic Devices – p.24 • Cheating – p.25 • Dress Code and Student Appearance (board policy 502.1) – p.25 • Driving to School – p.26 • Fines and Fees – p.26 • Food, Drinks, Gum, or Candy in the Classroom – p.26 • Inclement Weather – p.26 • Lockers (board policy 502.5) – p.26 • Lunch and Breakfast Program – p.26 • Lunch Money – p.26 • Physical Education Policies/Requirements (board policy 603.2) – p.27 • Physical Activity (Healthy Kids Act, State of Iowa) – p.27 • Physical Restraint of Students – p.27 • Schedule Changes – p.27 • Search and Seizure Regulations (board policy 502.8) – p.27 • Student Planners – p.28 • Student Complaints (board policy 502.4) – p. 28 • Student Publications (board policy 504.3) – p.28 • Tiger Club – p.28 • Tiger Time – p.28

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• Visitors/Guests – p.28 • Wellness – p. 28

Miscellaneous (Legal Notifications)

• Asbestos Notification (board policy 804.4) – p.28 • Distribution of Materials (board policy 903.5 and 903.5R1) – p.28 • Equal Educational Opportunity (board policy 102) – p.28 • FERPA – p.28 • Free or Reduced Cost Meals Eligibility (710.2) – p.28 • Inspection of Educational Materials (board policy 605.2) – p.30 • Jurisdictional Statement – p.30 • Mac Book Policies and Procedures (see board policy 605.61) – p.30 • Multicultural/Gender Fair Education (board policy 603.4) – p.30 • Nondiscrimination Policy – p.31 • Educational Records – p.31 • Teacher Qualifications and Licensure (NCLB policy) – p.31

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OFFICE HOURS AND STAFF CONTACTS Office Hours: Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. School Day: 8:00 a.m. to 3:10 p.m. Doors Open: 7:30 a.m. Breakfast is Served: 7:30 a.m. 7:55 a.m. Teacher Contract Day: 7:45 a.m. to 3:35 p.m.

Main Office……………………………………………………………………………..236-2750 Attendance, Message Center……………………………………………………………236-1414 Sara Hegg-Dunne, Principal ……………………………………………………............236-2750 Kris Loschen, Behavior Interventionist ………………………………………………...236-2749 Tom Dayton, Behavior Interventionist.…………………………………………………236-2739 Paula Simon, Counselor ..……………………………………………………………….236-2756 Joe Quick, Counselor …………………………………………………………………..236-2753 Susan Gallo, Nurse ……………………………………………………………………236-2751 Mary Ensign, Administrative Assistant………………………………………………….236-2747 Deb Huebner, Administrative Assistant…………………………………………………236-2755

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

Advanced Math Classes Eligible middle school students will have the opportunity to advance in the area of math at a pace more appropriate to their skills and development. Criteria for eligibility: 1. Testing Assessment Students must perform significantly above their peers on the math portions of the district-standardized assessments to be considered. 2. Teacher Recommendation & Grades A recommendation from a current math teacher identifying mathematical ability, consistently dependable work habits, and positive social development must be given. A student’s current grade in math may be used as a factor in determining if a student is recommended. 3. Parent Approval Parents will be notified of student eligibility and have the opportunity to decline advanced math placement. Middle School Students taking Integrated 1 will receive a math high school elective credit toward graduation and will still be required to take three full years of math in high school. A parent conference will occur if a student’s grade falls below a B average to talk about course placement. Grades in Integrated 1 will count towards the student’s permanent high school Grade Point Average (G.P.A.), and they will receive a high school math elective credit toward graduation.

Grading Scale Teachers in grades 6-8 at the middle school will use the following grading scale:

A 100 – 93 4.00 C+ 79 – 77 2.33 A- 92-90 3.67 C 76 – 73 2.00 B+ 89-87 3.33 C- 72 – 70 1.67 B 86-83 3.00 D+ 69 – 67 1.33 B- 82-80 2.67 D 66 – 63 1.00 D- 62 – 60 .67 F 59 - 0 0

Grade Reporting For grade reporting, teachers will use the JMC Grade book software program to record and report student grades. Teachers are encouraged to post grades once a week. Mid-term grade reports for students who earned a D or an F are mailed home. All 5th grade exploratory classes are pass/fail.

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Homework Teachers assign homework, extra class activities or projects as necessary. Homework is an opportunity for students to practice skills, to share and discuss ideas, to review materials, to become acquainted with resources, to organize thoughts, to prepare for classroom activities, or to make up incomplete class work. Students are expected to complete homework and complete it on time. Honor  Roll Grinnell Middle School has a semester “Honor Roll” for the seventh and eighth grades. A student must have a 3.25 GPA or higher with no grade below a C- to be on the honor roll. Any student having an incomplete may not be able to be included on the Honor Roll. (Incompletes need to be made up as soon as possible.) Best practices would give a student two days for every day absent to make up the work. Inclusion Grinnell Middle School follows the Inclusion for our students receiving special education services. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Each child is in an age appropriate general education classroom. • Every student is accepted and regarded as a full and valued member of the class and school community. • Special education supports are provided within the context of the general education classroom. • All students receive an education that addresses their individual needs. • No child is excluded on the basis of type and degree of disability. • The school promotes cooperative/collaborative teaching arrangements. • There is building based planning, problem solving, and ownership of all students and programs.

Student Promotion – Retention - Acceleration (board policy 505.2) Students will be promoted or retained based upon the judgment of the licensed employee and the principal. When it becomes evident a student in grades kindergarten through eight may be retained in a grade level for an additional year, the parents will be informed. Seventh and eighth grade students who fail any core course for the academic school year will be retained or will attend summer school to complete the required course of study. Core courses are identified as English, literature, math, science, and social studies. Exception: Seventh and eighth grade students enrolled in the high school courses will simply not receive credit should they fail the class. Students in grades kindergarten through twelve with exceptional talents may, with permission of the principal and parents, take classes beyond their current grade level. Enrichment opportunities outside the school district may be allowed when they do not conflict with the school district’s graduation requirements.

Standardized Tests Students are given standardized tests annually. The primary standardized tests given at the middle school is the Measure of Academic Progress (MAP) and the Iowa Assessment (Formerly ITBS). Periodically, individual departments or grade levels throughout the district may administer other standardized tests. These tests are used to determine academic progress for individual students, groups of students, buildings and the entire school district.

ATTENDANCE It is the educational philosophy of the Grinnell-Newburg School District that regular attendance at school by all students is essential to student learning and cannot be duplicated by other methods. Students are unable to obtain the opportunity to reach their maximum potential from the educational program offered without regularly attending scheduled classes and activities. Consequently, the community, Board of Directors, administrators and the staff of Grinnell-Newburg Community School District expect students to be in attendance at scheduled classes for one hundred seventy-four (174) days per academic year.

Attendance Procedures 1. All students who arrive late to school or return from an appointment MUST CHECK IN at the office. 2. All students who leave school before the end of the school day MUST CHECK OUT in the office. Students who leave school early need to have approval from a parent or guardian and need to provide written or telephone verification to the office.

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3. If a student is absent and knew of a test, major assignment or major project prior to the absence, that student may be required by his/her classroom teacher to take the test or produce the major assignment/project the first day she/he returns to class. 4. Attendance checks will take place every three weeks. Any student who has missed 10% or more schools day during that attendance check is out of compliance of our district’s attendance policy. A letter or email will be sent to all parents indicating this concern.

Excused Absences (board policy 501.9) Regular attendance by students is essential for students to obtain the maximum opportunities from the education program. Parents and students alike are encouraged to ensure an absence from school is a necessary absence. Students will attend school unless excused by the principal of their attendance center. Student absences approved by the principal are excused absences. Excused absences will count as days in attendance for purposes of the truancy law. These absences include, but are not limited to illness, family emergencies, recognized religious observances, appointments that cannot be scheduled outside the school day, and school-sponsored or approved activities. Students whose absences are approved will make up the work missed and receive full credit for the missed schoolwork. It is the responsibility of the student to initiate a procedure with the student’s teacher to complete the work missed. Students who wish to participate in school-sponsored activities must attend one-half day the day of the activity unless the principal for the student to be absent has given permission. Leaving School Grounds Grinnell Middle School students are not to leave the school grounds without prior approval and knowledge of the office staff. If a student leaves without school permission or parent consent, the absence will be counted as unexcused, even if a parent gives consent later, all work and tests collected that period will receive half credit. Students who leave school grounds without permission will be subject to disciplinary measures.  Disciplinary measures may include, but are not limited to, reprimand and corrective instruction by a teacher, behavior interventionist, and/or administrative interventions that include notification of parents, behavior contracts, behavior improvement plans, detention, temporary or permanent removal from class, suspension, and expulsion. (Board Policy 503.1)

Make Up Work

Teachers will have in place a system from which students, after being absent, can access make up work. Students should work with their teachers to obtain any missing assignments.

On-Target The On-Target team (Behavior Interventionist, Counselors, Principal, Nurse) will meet every week to review student attendance and student behavior concerns. Student Passes A student cannot be in the hallway without a pass. Students shall not leave the classroom without signing out first and signing back in when they return. Tardiness Students should arrive to class on time. When a student comes in late to a class, it is disruptive to the learning of others. The attendance secretary will send out a letter to parents of any student that has been tardy

Unexcused Absences (board policy 501.10) Truancy is the failure to attend school for the minimum number of days established in the school calendar by the board. Truancy is the act of being absent without a reasonable excuse. These absences are those not listed as excused absences in policy 501.9. The board will not tolerate truancy. Students are subject to disciplinary action for truancy including suspension and expulsion. It is within the discretion of the principal to determine, in light of the circumstances, whether a student may make up work missed because of truancy. Students receiving special education services may be assigned to supervised study hall or in-school suspension.

DISCIPLINE

Behavior The basic expectation is that students will conduct themselves responsibly and respectfully at all times. This conduct is expected while on school premises, while on school owned and/or operated school buses; and while attending or engaging in

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school activities on or off school property. Behavioral expectations that define what respect and responsibility look like for all areas of the school will be taught to students, who are expected to meet the expectations.

Teachers are responsible for reviewing classrooms expectations, procedures, and general school rules at the beginning and throughout the school year.

Students who violate the expectations with inappropriate behavior shall be subject to discipline. Inappropriate behavior includes behavior that is disrespectful to others or that disrupts the educational program, the orderly and efficient operation of the school or school activity, the rights of other students to participate in the educational process or activity, or the educational atmosphere. Disciplinary measures may include, but are not limited to, reprimand and corrective instruction by a teacher, behavior interventionist, and/or administrative interventions that include notification of parents, behavior contracts, behavior improvement plans, detention, temporary or permanent removal from class, suspension, and expulsion. (Board Policy 503.1)

Restitution An administrator or behavior interventionist may assign students to restitution after school if a student receives an office referral for inappropriate behavior that a student has been unable to change through teacher interventions.

Office referrals will be written for three kinds of behavior problems: 1) chronic or escalating behaviors in the classroom that teacher interventions, including notification of parents, have not been able to stop; 2) inappropriate behaviors in common areas such as the hallways or cafeteria when teacher interventions are not possible or are unsuccessful; 3) serious misbehaviors that warrant immediate removal from the classroom, such as blatant insubordination, serious disrespect, or actions dangerous to self or others. Restitution can be served from 3:10 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the behavior interventionist classroom. When a student is assigned to restitution in the BI room, the student has one week to serve the time with the BI staff.      

Students that are late to restitution will not get credit for serving; students that do not follow the rules will be asked to leave and will not get credit for serving. The following rules will be enforced: Talking, sleeping, and putting one’s head down are prohibited. Students may be asked to complete assignments such as reading and short essays, designed to help them understand and change the behaviors that are impeding their learning or that of others. Students without such assignments will be expected to sit quietly, read, or study.

Displays of Affection Relationships are an important part of one’s middle school years. It is also important for one to learn proper restraint in the display of those affections. While at school, it will be unacceptable for students to fondle, caress, or kiss each other. Couples refusing to cooperate by conducting themselves in a non-approved manner will be subject to a parental conference held with the Behavior Interventionist and/or other disciplinary measures.

Disrespect to Staff Members Any act which demeans the position of a staff member (employee of the school district or AEA who is over 18 years of age). The use of profanity or a threat toward a staff member or the refusal to carry out instructions of a staff member, including failure to go to the principal’s office when asked, is considered to be disrespectful.

First Offense: The student will serve an out of school suspension of 1-3 days and a conference may be held with the principal and the parents or guardian and the student.

Second Offense: The student will serve an out of school suspension of 3-6 days. A final review of policy with student and parent/or guardian will take place.

Third Offense: The student will serve an out-of-school suspension of 6-10 days.

Fourth Offense: Permanent removal from course or courses as may be appropriate and may be recommended for expulsion by the Board.

Disruptive or Inappropriate/Insubordinate Behavior

Disruptive  or  inappropriate/insubordinate  behavior  can  take  place  in  the  classroom  or  on  school  grounds  and  is  defined  as  any  action  that  interferes  with  the  educational  process  of  the  student  or  students.  

First  Offense:  

• Fifty-­‐minute  restitution  time    (3:10  –  4:00).  

• Conference  with  the  behavior  interventionist    

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Second  Offense:  

Possible  two  hours  of  restitution  (not  in  the  same  day),  and  a  conference  with  the  teacher,  student,  principal  or  behavior  interventionist  will  be  the  consequence.  The  problem  will  be  identified  and  all  parties  will  agree  on  a  remedy.    A  plan  may  be  drawn  up  with  will  outline  minimum  behavior  guidelines.    The  student  will  not  be  allowed  back  into  class  until  they  agree  to  the  plan.    

Third  Offense:  

Student  shall  be  removed  from  the  class  and  sent  to  the  Behavior  Intervention  room  and  may  receive  instruction  there.      

 

Fighting and Physical Violence    

Anytime  a  student  is  determined  to  be  a  danger  to  himself/herself  or  others  during  the  regular  school  day  or  at  any  school  activity  because  of  demonstrated  acts  of  violence.  

Toward  Staff:    Out  of  school  suspension  and  possible  recommendation  to  the  Board  for  expulsion  from  school.  

Toward  other  Students:      

First  Offense:   The  student  may  be  suspended  for  3-­‐5  days.    A  parental  conference  may  be  necessary  for  re-­‐admission  to  school.      

Second  Offense:       The  student  may  be  suspended  for  5-­‐7  days.    A  parental  conference  will  be  necessary  for  re-­‐admission  to  school.    

Third  Offense:   The  student  may  be  suspended  indefinitely  and  possible  expulsion.  

 

 

 

 

Guidelines  For  Success:    be  respectful;  be  responsible!  Conduct  Expectations  for  Common  Areas:  CLASSROOM  Students  will...  •   Be  quiet  and  give  full  attention  when  others  have  the  floor.  •   Use  all  property  as  it  is  intended  to  be  used.  •   Be  positive  and  respectful  in  interactions  with  others.  •   Be  on  time.  •   Bring  needed  materials.  •   Complete  all  assignments  (including  make-­‐up  work)  on  time.  •   Remain  engaged  the  entire  period.    •   Practice  academic  integrity.    STUDY  HALL  Students  will...  •   Bring  materials  and  be  actively  engaged  in  academic  work  or  reading  for  the  entire  period.  •   Get  permission  to  leave.  Get  a  prior  pass  to  go  to  the  counselors’  office  and  designated  teachers.  •   Remain  in  assigned  seat  unless  teacher  gives  permission  to  study  with  another  student.    MEDIA  CENTER  Students  will...  •   Collaborate  quietly  on  academic  projects,  remembering  that  the  library  staff  has  the  right  to  ask  students  abusing  

this  privilege  to  leave  the  media  center.  •   Return  materials  to  the  appropriate  places  and  on  time!  •   While  sitting  on  the  sofas,  be  respectful  of  the  furniture.  •   Show  respect  for  the  student  artwork  displayed  in  the  media  center  

• Return  to  your  Study  Hall  or  Classroom  before  the  bell  rings.  

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• No  food  or  drink  in  the  library  unless  permission  has  been  given.  • Students  should  refrain  from  cutting  through  the  library  unless  returning  a  book.  

     COMPUTER  USE  Students  will...  •   Keep  passwords  confidential.  •   Notify  a  supervisor  when  technical  problems  arise.  •   Log  into  personal  account  only.  •   Respect  and  uphold  network  etiquette  as  applied  to  copyright  materials,  threatening  or  obscene  material,  and  

material  protected  by  a  trade  license  (Network  accounts  can  be  tracked  by  system  administrators  and  are  not  private.)  

•   Follow  Internet  usage  guidelines  and  avoid  plagiarism.    OFFICE  Students  who  are  sent  to  the  office  will...  •   Come  immediately  via  the  shortest  route.  •   Be  respectful  and  considerate  of  self,  others,  and  property.  •   Remain  quiet.  •   Ask  permission  to  leave  office.  •   Students  who  are  visiting  the  office  for  assistance  will...  

Wait  quietly  and  patiently  for  help.  Be  respectful  and  considerate  of  self,  others,  and  property.  

 ASSEMBLIES:  Gymnasium  or  Mini-­‐Theater  Students  will...  •   Walk  and  enter  quietly  and  enter  quietly.  •   Take  seat  immediately  •   Respect  others’  space,  keeping  hands  and  feet  to  self—no  feet  on  seats.  •   Participate  maturely,  respectfully,  and  actively.  •   Be  considerate,  quiet,  and  attentive.  •   Show  appreciation  with  applause.  •   Remain  seated  until  dismissed.  •   Refrain  from  eating,  drinking,  or  chewing  gum  in  the  gym  or  mini-­‐theater.    •   Follow  cell  phone  policy.        CAFETERIA  Students  will...  •   Be  respectful  to  cooks,  faculty,  staff  and  other  students.  •   Be  respectful  by  never  throwing  food  or  other  items.  •   Wait  in  line  patiently.  •   Speak  in  conversational  voices.  •   Use  good  table  manners.  •   Clean  up  table  area  before  leaving.  •   Properly  dispose  of  garage  and  return  trays,  silverware,  and  dishes.    HALLWAYS  AND  ALL  OTHER  BUILDING  AREAS  Students  will...  •   Follow  directions  of  school  personnel  with  immediate  cooperation.  •   Walk  on  the  right  side  of  the  hallway  and  keep  traffic  moving.  •   Use  conversational  voices  with  appropriate,  respectful  language.  •   Be  respectful  and  considerate  of  self,  others  and  property.  •   Sign  out  from  the  classroom  before  you  leave  and  carry  a  pass  to  destinations.  •   Leave  classrooms  only  with  permission  and  return  to  class  as  promptly  as  possible.  •   Consume  food  and  drink  in  cafeteria.  •   Hats  are  to  be  left  in  lockers,  and  hoods  are  not  to  be  worn  on  the  head.  

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Anti-Bullying/Harassment/Sexual Harassment Policy (board policy 104) Harassment and bullying of students and employees are against federal, state and local policy, and are not tolerated by the board. The board is committed to providing all students with a safe and civil school environment in which all members of the school community are treated with dignity and respect. To that end, the board has in place policies, procedures, and practices that are designed to reduce and eliminate bullying and harassment as well as processes and procedures to deal with incidents of bullying and harassment. Bullying and harassment of students by students, school employees, and volunteers who have direct contact with students will not be tolerated in the school or school district. The board prohibits harassment, bullying, hazing, or any other victimization, of students, based on any of the following actual or perceived traits or characteristics, including but not limited to, age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status, or familial status. Harassment against employees based upon race, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, age or disability is also prohibited.

This policy is in effect while students or employees are on property within the jurisdiction of the board; while on school-owned or school-operated vehicles; while attending or engaged in school-sponsored activities; and while away from school grounds if the misconduct directly affects the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school or school district. If, after an investigation, a student is found to be in violation of this policy, the student shall be disciplined by appropriate measures up to, and including, suspension and expulsion. If be disciplined by appropriate measures up to, and including, suspension and expulsion. If after an investigation a school employee is found to be in violation of this policy, the employee shall be disciplined by appropriate measures up to, and including, termination. If after an investigation a school volunteer is found to be in violation of this policy, the volunteer shall be subject to appropriate measures up to, and including, exclusion from school grounds. “Volunteer” means an individual who has regular, significant contact with students. When looking at the totality of the circumstances, harassment and bullying mean any electronic, written, verbal, or physical act or conduct toward a student, which is based on any actual or perceived trait or characteristic of the student and which creates an objectively hostile school environment that meets one or more of the following conditions:

•Places the student in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s person or property; •Has a substantially detrimental effect on the student’s physical or mental health; •Has the effect of substantially interfering with the student’s academic performance; or •Has the effect of substantially interfering with the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by a school.

“Electronic” means any communication involving the transmission of information by wire, radio, optical cable, electromagnetic, or other similar means. “Electronic” includes but is not limited to communication via electronic mail, internet-based communications, pager service, cell phones, electronic text messaging or similar technologies. Harassment and bullying may include, but are not limited to, the following behaviors and circumstances: Verbal, nonverbal, physical or written harassment, bullying, hazing, or other victimization that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering to the victim.

• Repeated remarks of a demeaning nature that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering to the victim; •Implied or explicit threats concerning one’s grades, achievements, property, etc. that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering to the victim; •Demeaning jokes, stories, or activities directed at the student that have the purpose or effect of causing injury, discomfort, fear, or suffering to the victim; •Unreasonable interference with a student’s performance or creation of an intimidating, offensive, or hostile learning

environment. Sexual harassment means unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

• Submission to the conduct is made either implicitly or explicitly a term or condition of the student's education or benefits;

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• Submission to or rejection of the conduct by a school employee is used as the basis for academic decisions affecting that student or • The conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with the student's academic performance by creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive education environment.

In situations between students and school officials, faculty, staff, or volunteers who have direct contact with students, bullying and harassment may also include the following behaviors:

• Requiring that a student submit to bullying or harassment by another student, either explicitly or implicitly, as a term or condition of the targeted student’s education or participation in school programs or activities; and/or

• Requiring submission to or rejection of such conduct as a basis for decisions affecting the student.

Any person who promptly, reasonably, and in good faith reports an incident of bullying or harassment under this policy to a school official, shall be immune from civil or criminal liability relating to such report and to the person’s participation in any administrative, judicial, or other proceeding relating to the report. Individuals who knowingly file a false complaint may be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. Retaliation against any person, because the person has filed a bullying or harassment complaint or assisted or participated in a harassment investigation or proceeding, is also prohibited. Individuals who knowingly file false harassment complaints and any person who gives false statements in an investigation shall be subject to discipline by appropriate measures, as shall any person who is found to have retaliated against another in violation of this policy. Any student found to have retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to, and including, suspension and expulsion. Any school employee found to have retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to, and including, termination, of employment. Any school volunteer found to have retaliated in violation of this policy shall be subject to measures up to, and including, exclusion from school grounds. The school or school district will promptly and reasonably investigate allegations of bullying or harassment. The superintendent or designee will be responsible for handling all complaints by students alleging bullying or harassment. The superintendent or designee will be responsible for handling all complaints by employees alleging bullying or harassment. It also is the responsibility of the superintendent, in conjunction with the investigator and principals, to develop procedures regarding this policy. The superintendent also is responsible for organizing training programs for students, school officials, faculty, staff, and volunteers who have direct contact with students. The training will include how to recognize harassment and what to do in case a student is harassed. It will also include proven effective harassment prevention strategies. The superintendent will also develop a process for evaluating the effectiveness of the policy in reducing bullying and harassment. The superintendent shall report to the board on the progress of reducing bullying and harassment. Students who feel they have been harassed or bullied should:

• Communicate to the harasser that the individual expects the behavior to stop, if the individual is comfortable doing so. If the individual wants assistance communicating with the harasser, the individual should ask a teacher, counselor or principal to help.

If the harassment does not stop, or the individual does not feel comfortable confronting the harasser, the individual should: *Tell a teacher, counselor or principal; *Write down exactly what happened, keep a copy and give another copy to the teacher, counselor or principal

including; *What, when and where it happened; *Who was involved? *Witnesses to the harassment; *Exactly what was said or what the harasser did; *What the student said or did, either at the time or later; *How the student felt; and *How the harasser responded.

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Forms and procedures for investigating bullying and harassment are available in the guidance office and in the principal’s office. INVESTIGATION PROCEDURE The investigator will reasonably and promptly commence the investigation upon receipt of the complaint. The investigator, with the approval of the principal, or the principal has the authority to initiate an investigation in the absence of a written complaint. The investigator will interview the complainant and the alleged harasser. The alleged harasser may file a written statement in response to the complaint. The investigator may also interview witnesses as deemed appropriate. Upon completion of the investigation, the investigator will make written findings and conclusions as to each allegation of harassment and report the findings and conclusions to the principal. RESOLUTION OF THE COMPLAINT Following receipt of the investigator’s report, the principal may investigate further, if deemed necessary, and make a determination of any appropriate additional steps, which may include discipline. Prior to the determination of the appropriate remedial action, the principal may, at the principal’s discretion, interview the complainant and the alleged harasser. The principal will file a written report closing the case and documenting any disciplinary action taken or any other action taken in response to the complaint. The complainant, the alleged harasser and the investigator will receive notice as to the conclusion of the investigation. The principal will maintain a log of information necessary to comply with Iowa Department of Education reporting procedures. POINTS TO REMEMBER IN THE INVESTIGATION

• Evidence uncovered in the investigation is confidential. • Complaints must be taken seriously and investigated. • No retaliation will be taken against individuals involved in the investigation process. Retaliators will be disciplined up to and including suspension and expulsion.

Harassment Consequences: 1st Offense: Warning and/or up to 1 day suspension and notify parents. 2nd Offense: 1-3 day suspension. Parents notified and meeting held with student, parents, investigator, and principal. 3rd Offense: 4-10 day suspension. Student may be referred to the superintendent and the School Board for possible expulsion. Parents are notified.

Expulsion (board policy 503.2) Only the board may remove a student from the school environment. The removal of a student from the school environment, which includes, but is not limited to, classes and activities, is an expulsion from school. Students may be expelled for violations of board policy, school rules or the law. It shall be within the discretion of the board to discipline a student by using an expulsion for a single offense or for a series of offenses depending on the nature of the offense and the circumstances surrounding the offense. It shall be within the discretion of the superintendent to recommend to the board the expulsion of a student for disciplinary purposes. Only the board may take action to expel a student and to readmit the student. The principal shall keep records of expulsions in addition to the board's records. When a student is recommended for expulsion by the board, the student shall be provided with: 1. Notice of the reasons for the proposed expulsion. 2. The names of the witnesses and an oral or written report on the facts to which each witness testifies unless the witnesses are students whose names may be released at the discretion of the superintendent; 3. An opportunity to present a defense against the charges and provide either oral testimony or written affidavits of witnesses on the student's behalf. 4. The right to be represented by counsel. 5. The results and finding of the board in writing open to the student's inspection. In addition to these procedures, a special education student must be provided with additional procedures. A determination should be made of whether the student is actually guilty of the misconduct. A staffing team should determine whether the student's behavior is caused by the student's disability and whether the conduct is the result of inappropriate placement. Discussions and conclusions of this meeting should be recorded. If the special education student's conduct is not caused by the disability, the student may be expelled or suspended for a long-term period following written notice to the parent and pursuant

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to the school district's expulsion hearing procedures. If the misconduct is caused by the disability and a change in placement is recommended, the change must be made pursuant to the placement procedures used by the school district.

In-School Suspension (After School 4-5 days) (board policy 503.1R) 1. In-school suspension is the temporary isolation of a student from one or more classes while under administrative supervision. The principal may impose in-school suspensions for an infraction of school rules which are serious but which do not warrant the necessity of removal from school. 2. The principal/behavior interventionist will conduct an investigation of the allegations against the student prior to imposition of an in-school suspension. The investigation will include, but not be limited to, written or oral notice to the student of the allegations against them with an opportunity to respond. Written notice and reasons for the in-school suspension will be sent to the student's parents.

Out-of-School Suspension (board policy 503.1R) 1. Out-of-school suspension is the removal of a student from the school environment for periods of short duration. Out-of-school suspension is to be used when other available school resources are unable to constructively remedy student misconduct. 2. A student may be suspended out of school for up to ten school days by a principal for a commission of gross or repeated infractions of school rules, regulations, policy or the law, or when the presence of the student will cause interference with the maintenance of the educational environment or the operation of the school. The principal may suspend students after conducting an investigation of the charges against the student, giving the student: a. Oral or written notice of the allegations against the student. b. The opportunity to respond to those charges. At the principal's discretion, the student may be allowed to confront witnesses against the student or present witnesses on behalf of the student. 3. Notice of the out-of-school suspension will be mailed no later than the end of the school day following the suspension to the student's parents and the superintendent. A reasonable effort shall be made to personally notify the student's parents and the person making or attempting to make the contact shall document such effort. Written notice to the parents shall include the circumstances, which led to the suspension and a copy of the board policy and rules pertaining to the suspension.

Suspensions and Special Education Students (board policy 503.1R) 1. Students who have been identified as special education students may be referred for a review of the student's Individual Education Program (IEP). The IEP may be revised to include a continuum of intervention strategies and programming to change the behavior. 2. Students who have not been identified as special education students may be referred for evaluation after the student's suspension to determine whether the student has a disability and is in need of special education.

Theft/Stealing Students who take or possess items that belong to other students, staff members or the school without permission will be subject to discipline up to and including detention or suspension. In addition, students will be required to return the stolen item(s). If the exact item(s) cannot be returned, the student will be expected to replace the stolen item(s) or reimburse (pay) for the value of the item(s) taken. Such violations may also be reported to local law enforcement authorities.

Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs (board policy 502.7) The board prohibits the distribution, dispensing, manufacture, possession, use, or being under the influence of beer, wine, alcohol, tobacco, other controlled substances, or “look alike” substances that appear to be tobacco, beer, wine, alcohol or controlled substances by students while on school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school owned and/or operated school or chartered vehicles; while attending or engaged in school activities; and while away from school grounds if the misconduct will directly affect the good order, efficient management, and welfare of the school district. The board believes such illegal unauthorized, or contraband materials generally cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees, or visitors. Violation of this policy by students will result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension or expulsion. Use, purchase or being in possession of cigarettes, tobacco, or tobacco products for those under the age of eighteen may be reported to the local law enforcement authorities. Possession, use, or being under the influence of beer, wine, alcohol, and/or of a controlled substance may also be reported to the local law enforcement authorities.

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Students who violate the terms of this policy may be required to satisfactorily complete a substance abuse assistance or rehabilitation program approved by the school board. If such student fails to satisfactorily complete such a program, the student may be subject to discipline including suspension or expulsion.

Vandalism/Care of School Property (board policy 502.2) Students will treat school property with care and respect they would treat their own property. Students found to have destroyed or otherwise harmed school property may be required to reimburse the school district. They may be subject to discipline under board policy and the school district rules and regulations. They may also be referred to local law enforcement authorities.

Violence or Threats of Violence All threat of violence, whether oral, written or symbolic, against a student or students, staff, visitors or toward school facilities are prohibited. All such threats will be promptly investigated upon notice to administration. Law enforcement officials may be contacted. Threats issued and delivered away from school or school activities may be grounds for disciplinary action if the threat impacts the orderly and efficient operation of the school. Students engaging in threatening behavior will face disciplinary consequences up to and including expulsion from school with loss of credit for the term of the expulsion. The following factors may be considered in determining the extent to which a student will be disciplined for threatening, harassing or terrorist behavior: the background of the student, including any history of violence or prior threatening behavior; the student’s access to weapons of any kind; the circumstances surrounding the threat; the age of the student; the mental and emotional maturity of the student; the degree of cooperation by the student and his/her parent(s) or guardian(s) in the investigation; the existence of the student’s criminal or juvenile history; the degree of legitimate alarm or concern in the school community created by the threat; other relevant information from any credible source.

Weapons Policy (board policy 502.6) The board believes weapons and other dangerous objects and look-a-likes in school district facilities cause material and substantial disruption to the school environment or present a threat to the health and safety of students, employees and visitors on the school district premises or property within the jurisdiction of the district. School district facilities are not an appropriate place for weapons, dangerous objects, or look-a-likes. Weapons and other dangerous objects and look-a-likes will be taken from students and others who bring them onto the school district property or onto property within the jurisdiction of the school district or from students who are within the control of the school district. Parents of students found to possess a weapon, dangerous object, or look-a-likes on school property shall be notified of the incident. Possession or confiscation of weapons or dangerous objects shall be reported to the law enforcement officials and the student will be subject to disciplinary action including suspension or expulsion. Students bringing a firearm to school or knowingly possessing firearms at school will be expelled for not less than one year. The superintendent has the authority to recommend this expulsion requirement to be modified for a student on a case-by-case basis. For purposes of this portion of this policy, the term “firearm” includes, but is not limited to, any weapon which is designed to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, the frame or receiver of any such a weapon, a muffler or silencer for such a weapon, or any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas. Weapons under the control of law enforcement officials shall be exempt form this policy. The principal may allow authorized persons to display weapons or other dangerous objects for educational purposes. Such authorization must be in writing and be specific as to date, time, reasons and persons who are so authorized. Such a display shall also be exempt from the policy. It shall be the responsibility of the superintendent in conjunction with the principal, to develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.

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EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Academic/Behavior Eligibility Policy Behavior Eligibility: Good Conduct Rule (board policy 503.4): Participation in school activities is a privilege. School activities provide the benefits of promoting additional interests and abilities in the students during their school years and for their lifetimes. Students who participate in extracurricular activities serve as ambassadors of the school district throughout the calendar year, whether away from school or at school. Students who wish to have the privilege of participating in extracurricular activities must conduct themselves in accordance with board policy and must refrain from activities that are illegal, or unsafe or unhealthy. Students who fail to abide by the policy and the administrative regulations supporting it may be subject to disciplinary measures. The principal will keep records of violations of the good conduct rules.

Academic Eligibility: Every three weeks teachers will conduct grade checks. If a 7th or 8th grade student is failing one or more classes at that time, he/she will be placed on the ineligibility list. Teachers will be responsible for forwarding their ineligibility lists through email to the AD’s administrative assistant (Mrs. Huebner), principal, behavior interventionists, counselors, and in-season coaches on Thursday evening of each grade check week. On Friday of that week parents will be notified by email that their children are ineligible for extra-curricular activities. Teachers and coaches will notify the ineligible students by the end of the day Friday. It is the expectation that teachers are communicating on a regular basis with students who are struggling with their academics. Students will be eligible to participate in school activities as soon as they are no longer failing any courses as shown on JMC. Parents will be contacted when the student is not longer ineligible.

Attendance Eligibility Policy (board policy 501.9) Students who wish to participate in school-sponsored activities must attend one-half day the day of the activity unless the principal for the student to be absent has given permission. Students who are not in school the entire day because of an illness on the day of an extracurricular activity/event will not be allowed to attend that event. Students showing up at such an event will be sent home. Extracurricular activities covered by this policy include, but are not limited to: football, volleyball, cross-country, wrestling, basketball, track, jazz band, and honor choir

Athletic Activities Seventh and eighth grade students may participate in football, cross-country, volleyball, boys and girl’s basketball, wrestling, and boys and girls track. Practices will be held after school hours or before school hours. Athletes may not begin practice or participate in any athletic event unless they have had a physical examination by a doctor and the physical and concussion form are on file with the office.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPATION IN INTERSCHOLASTIC & EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES - GRADES 7-12 (School Board Policy 503.4)

Good  Conduct  Rule  

Participation  in  school  activities  is  a  privilege.  School  activities  provide  the  benefits  of    promoting  additional  interests  and  abilities  in  the  students  during  their  school  years  and  for  their  lifetimes.    

Students  who  participate  in  extracurricular  activities  serve  as  ambassadors  of  the  school  district  throughout  the  calendar  year,  whether  away  from  school  or  at  school.  Students  who  wish  to  have  the  privilege  of  participating  in  extracurricular  activities  must  conduct  themselves  in  accordance  with  board  policy  and  must  refrain  from  activities  that  are  illegal,  immoral  or  unhealthy.  

To  retain  eligibility  for  participation  in  Grinnell-­‐Newburg  extra-­‐curricular  activities,  students  must  conduct  themselves  as  good  citizens  both  in  and  out  of  school  at  all  times.  Students  who  represent  the  school  in  an  activity  are  expected  to  serve  as  good  role  models  to  other  students  and  to  members  of  the  community.  

Students  are  only  considered  a  bona  fide  contestant  if  they  begin  and  end  the  activity  in  good  standing.    

The  following  activities  are  covered  by  the  Board’s  policy  and  these  rules:  Athletics,  instrumental  and  vocal  music  performances  which  are  not  required  as  part  of  a  grade,  drama  productions,  speech  contests,  FFA,  class  officer  or  

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student  council  representative,  State  contests  and  performances  for  cheerleading,  Tiger  mascot,  and  Tiger  Paws,  Mock  Trial,  Debate,  Model  U.N.,  graduation  activities  (other  than  a  graduate),  or  any  other  activity  where  the  student  represents  the  school  also  is  covered.  Clubs  not  on  this  list  may  have  their  own  individual  interpretation  of  the  good  conduct  rule  as  an  agreement  of  participation  in  the  club,  but  the  consequences  of  that  club  have  no  bearing  on  the  consequences  (or  the  reduction  of  consequences)  of  the  groups  on  this  list.  

Academic  Eligibility  Requirements  

A.  All  contestants  must  be  enrolled  and  in  good  standing  in  a  school  that  is  a  member  or  associate  member  in  good  standing  of  the  organization  sponsoring  the  event.  

B.  All  contestants  must  be  under  20  years  of  age.  

C.  All  contestants  shall  be  enrolled  students  of  the  school  in  good  standing.  They  shall  receive  credit  in  at  least  four  subjects,  each  of  one  period  or  “hour”  or  the  equivalent  thereof,  at  all  times.  To  qualify  under  this  rule,  a  “subject”  must  meet  the  requirements  of  281—Chapter  12  (Iowa  Administrative  Code).  Coursework  taken  from  a  postsecondary  institution  and  for  which  a  school  district  or  accredited  nonpublic  school  grants  academic  credit  toward  high  school  graduation  shall  be  used  in  determining  eligibility.  No  student  shall  be  denied  eligibility  if  the  student’s  school  program  deviates  from  the  traditional  two-­‐semester  school  year.  

 (1)  Each  contestant  shall  be  passing  all  coursework  for  which  credit  is  given  and  shall  be  making  adequate  progress  toward  graduation  requirements  at  the  end  of  each  grading  period.  Grading  period,  graduation  requirements,  and  any  interim  periods  of  ineligibility  are  determined  by  local  policy.  For  purposes  of  this  sub  rule,  “grading  period”  shall  mean  the  period  of  time  at  the  end  of  which  a  student  in  grades  9  through  12  receives  a  final  grade  and  course  credit  is  awarded  for  passing  grades.  

 (2)  If  at  the  end  of  any  grading  period  a  contestant  is  given  a  failing  grade  in  any  course  for  which  credit  is  awarded,  the  contestant  is  ineligible  to  dress  for  and  compete  in  the  next  occurring  interscholastic  athletic  contests  and  competitions  in  which  the  contestant  is  a  contestant  for  30  consecutive  calendar  days.  

D.  A  student  with  a  disability  who  has  an  individualized  education  program  shall  not  be  denied  eligibility  on  the  basis  of  scholarship  if  the  student  is  making  adequate  progress,  as  determined  by  school  officials,  towards  the  goals  and  objectives  on  the  student’s  individualized  education  program.  

E.  A  student  who  meets  all  other  qualifications  may  be  eligible  to  participate  in  interscholastic  athletics  for  a  maximum  of  eight  consecutive  semesters  upon  entering  the  ninth  grade  for  the  first  time.  However,  a  student  who  engages  in  athletics  during  the  summer  following  eighth  grade  is  also  eligible  to  compete  during  the  summer  following  twelfth  grade.  Extenuating  circumstances,  such  as  health,  may  be  the  basis  for  an  appeal  to  the  executive  board,  which  may  extend  the  eligibility  of  a  student  when  the  executive  board  finds  that  the  interests  of  the  student  and  interscholastic  athletics  will  be  benefited.  

F.  All  member  schools  shall  provide  appropriate  interventions  and  necessary  academic  supports  for  students  who  fail  or  who  are  at  risk  to  fail,  and  shall  report  to  the  department  regarding  those  interventions  on  the  comprehensive  school  improvement  plan.  

G.  A  student  is  academically  eligible  upon  entering  the  ninth  grade.  

H.  A  student  is  not  eligible  to  participate  in  an  interscholastic  sport  if  the  student  has,  in  that  same  sport,  participated  in  a  contest  with  or  against,  or  trained  with,  a  National  23  Collegiate  Athletic  Association  (NCAA),  National  Junior  College  Athletic  Association  (NJCAA),  National  Association  of  Intercollegiate  Athletics  (NAIA),  or  other  collegiate  governing  organization’s  sanctioned  team.  A  student  may  not  participate  with  or  against  high  school  graduates  if  the  graduates  represent  a  collegiate  institution  or  if  the  event  is  sanctioned  or  sponsored  by  a  collegiate  institution.  Nothing  in  this  sub  rule  shall  preclude  a  student  from  participating  in  a  one-­‐time  tryout  with  or  against  members  of  a  college  team  with  permission  from  the  member  school’s  administration  and  the  respective  collegiate  institution’s  athletic  administration.  [This  is  NOT  a  substantive  change;  it  clarifies  the  “college  squad”  rule.]  

I.  No  student  shall  be  eligible  to  participate  in  any  given  interscholastic  athletic  sport  if  the  student  has  engaged  in  that  sport  professionally.  

J.  The  local  superintendent  of  schools,  with  the  approval  of  the  local  board  of  education,  may  give  permission  to  a  dropout  student  to  participate  in  athletics  upon  return  to  school  if  the  student  is  otherwise  eligible  under  these  rules.  

K.  Remediation  of  a  failing  grade  by  way  of  summer  school  or  other  means  shall  not  affect  the  student’s  ineligibility.  All  failing  grades  shall  be  reported  to  any  school  to  which  the  student  transfers.  “Compete”  means  participating  in  an  interscholastic  contest  or  competition,  and  includes  dressing  in  full  team  uniform  for  the  interscholastic  contest  or  

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competition,  as  well  as  participating  in  pre-­‐game  warm-­‐up  exercises  with  team  members.  “Compete”  does  not  include  any  managerial,  recordkeeping,  or  other  non-­‐competitor  functions  performed  by  a  student  on  behalf  of  a  member  or  associate  member  school.      

Personal  Conduct  Eligibility  Conduct  Requirements:  

A  student  may  lose  eligibility  for  any  of  the  following  behaviors:  

• Possession,  use,  or  purchase  of  tobacco  products,  regardless  of  the  student’s  age;      • Possession,  use,  or  purchase  of  alcoholic  beverages,  including  beer  and  wine  (use  includes  having  the  odor  of  

alcohol  on  one’s  breath);  • Possession,  use,  or  purchase  of  illegal  drugs  or  the  unauthorized,  use,  or  purchase  of    otherwise  unlawful  drugs.  • Being  in  a  car  or  in  attendance  at  a  party  or  function  where  the  student  knows  or  should  have  known  minors  are  

consuming  alcohol  or  other  drugs  illegally;  • Engaging  in  any  act  that  would  be  grounds  for  conviction  in  Iowa’s  criminal  justice  system  or  a  finding  that  a  

student  has  committed  a  delinquent  act  by  Iowa  juvenile  justice  system,  excluding  minor  traffic  offenses,  regardless  of  whether  the  student  was  cited,  arrested,  convicted,  or  adjudicated  for  the  act(s).  

• Inappropriate  offensive  conduct  such  as  fighting,  insubordination,  hazing,  or  the  harassment  of  others  in  violation  of  Policy  503.1.  

Consequences:  

Any  student  who,  after  a  meeting  at  which  the  student  shall  be  confronted  with  the  allegation,  the  basis  for  the  allegation,  and  given  an  opportunity  to  tell  the  student’s  side,  is  found  to  have  violated  the  school’s  Good  Conduct  Rule  will  be  deemed  ineligible  for  a  period  of  time  as  described  below.  When  the  administration  finds  that  by  a  preponderance  of  the  evidence  the  24  student  violated  the  Good  Conduct  Rule,  during  the  school  year  or  the  summer,  the  student  is  subject  to  loss  of  eligibility  as  follows:  

Penalty  for  first  offense:  up  to  6  weeks  of  ineligibility  

Penalty  for  second  offense:  up  to  12  weeks  of  ineligibility  

Penalty  for  third  and  subsequent  offenses:  up  to  12  calendar  months  of  ineligibly  

Reduction  in  Penalty  

1.  Admission  Prior  to  Determination:  If  the  student  comes  forward  to  a  coach,  administrator,  or  activity  sponsor  to  admit  (self-­‐report)  within  72  hours  after  the  violation  of  this  policy,  the  student’s  penalty  can  be  reduced  by  two  (2)  weeks  for  a  first  and  a  second  violation  of  Policy  503.8.  

2.  Evaluation  and  Treatment:  A  student  who  has  a  first  or  second  violation  of  the  alcohol  or  drug  provision  of  Policy  502.7  may  elect  to  seek  an  evaluation,  and  if  recommended,  treatment  from  a  recognized  substance  abuse  facility  at  the  student’s  or  the  student’s  parent/guardian’s  expense.  If  the  student  seeks  the  evaluation  and  agrees  to  waive  confidentiality  to  allow  the  facility  to  report  back  to  the  building  principal  or  his/her  designee  regarding  recommendations  for  treatment  or  follow-­‐up  care,  the  student’s  penalty  for  a  first  or  second  violation  can  be  reduced  by  one  (1)  week  for  a  first  offense  and  two  (2)  weeks  for  a  second  offense.  

The  period  of  ineligibility  is  attached  immediately  upon  the  finding  of  a  violation  if  the  student  is  currently  engaged  in  an  extracurricular  activity.  If  not  currently  in  an  activity,  the  period  of  ineligibility  is  carried  over  to  the  time  the  student  seeks  to  go  out  for  the  next  activity.  However,  if  the  period  of  time  between  a  violation  and  an  activity  is  twelve  calendar  months  or  more,  the  student  shall  not  serve  an  ineligibility  period  for  the  violation.  An  ineligible  student  MUST  attend  practices  and  rehearsals  as  required  by  the  coach  or  activity  sponsor,  but  may  neither  “suit  up”  nor  perform/participate.  

THIS  POLICY  PERTAINS  TO  ALL  EXTRA-­‐CURRICULAR  ACTIVITIES,  INCLUDING  FINE  ARTS  AND  ATHLETICS.  (If  a  student  drops  out  of  an  activity  prior  to  completion  of  the  period  of  ineligibility,  the  penalty  or  remainder  of  the  penalty  will  be  attached  when  the  student  next  seeks  to  go  out  for  an  activity,  subject  to  the  12-­‐month  limitation  above.)  

If  a  student  transfers  in  from  another  school  or  school  district  and  the  student  had  not  yet  completed  a  period  of  ineligibility  for  a  violation  of  Eligibility  Requirements  (Policy  503.8)  in  the  previous  school  or  school  district,  the  student  shall  be  ineligible  if  the  administration  determines  that  there  is  general  knowledge  in  our  school  (district)  of  the  fact  of  the  student’s  violation  in  the  previous  district.  

Students  who  are  deemed  ineligible  under  Policy  502.7  are  eligible  to  receive  letters  and  awards  if  the  student  meets  the  criteria  for  such  letters  and  awards  as  established  by  the  coach  or  Activities  Director.  

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Activity  Requirements  

Student  participants  are  expected  to  be  at  their  best  behavior  at  all  times  and  follow  rules  and  regulations  set  by  the  school  district  and/or  coach/supervisor.  Failure  to  observe  such  rules  or  follow  the  supervisor’s  directions  may  result  in  the  removal  from  the  team  either  temporarily  or  permanently.  

Any  additional  rules  or  regulations  for  particular  activity  must  be  submitted  in  writing  to  the  principal  by  the  director  of  that  activity  for  the  administration’s  approval,  preferably  prior  to  the  beginning  of  the  activity.  Rules  approved  by  the  administration  will  be  effective  upon  distribution  to  the  students.  

Attendance  Requirements  

If  a  participant  is  absent  from  school  a  half  day  or  longer  due  to  illness  he/she  may  not  participate,  either  in  practice  or  a  contest,  on  that  particular  day.  Any  other  absence  from  school  must  receive  prior  approval  from  the  building  principal  or  designee.  

Enforcement  Procedures  

A.  The  time  of  ineligibility  shall  be  from  the  date  of  the  determination  (see  item  F  below).  

B.  Eligibility  requirements  shall  apply  throughout  the  calendar  year,  whether  or  not  a  student  is  in  an  activity  at  the  date  of  the  alleged  occurrence  or  date  of  determination.  

C.  Whether  said  act  is  acted  upon  by  law  enforcement  officials,  adult  court,  or  juvenile  court  will  not  be  determinative  of  whether  the  student  is  found  to  have  violated  these  eligibility  requirements.  

D.  The  purpose  of  this  policy  is  school-­‐related  and  thus  operates  independently  of  the  criminal  justice  and  juvenile  justice  systems.  The  student  does  have  certain  rights  of  due  process  as  spelled  out  in  this  policy,  and  other  school  policies  relate  to  appeals,  but  those  rights  are  not  the  same  as  exist  in  the  criminal  justice  and  juvenile  justice  systems.  

E.  School  employees  shall  diligently  report  any  information  alleging  a  violation  of  one  of  the  eligibility  requirements  to  the  student’s  activity  director  or  principal  who  shall  then  proceed  in  a  diligent  manner  to  make  a  determination.  This  requirement  does  not  apply  to  anyone  employed  full  or  part-­‐time  as  a  counselor  or  school  nurse  unless  the  counselor  or  nurse  actually  witnesses  the  violation.  Other  school  employees  are  exempt  from  the  reporting  requirement  if  a  student  contacts  them  for  the  purpose  of  obtaining  counseling  and  the  employee  contacted  has  not  witness  the  admitted  violation.  In  any  case,  however,  if  a  student  discloses  intent  to  harm  himself/herself,  or  another  person,  the  employee  receiving  the  information  shall  report  the  conversation  to  the  building  principal.  

F.  The  principal  or  designee  shall  discuss  the  alleged  violation  with  the  student.  If  the  principal  or  designee  decides  there  has  been  a  violation  he/she  will  communicate  the  decision  to  the  student  and  attempt  to  reach  the  parent(s)  or  guardian(s)  by  telephone,  in  the  presence  of  the  student.  The  date  the  administration  determines  there  was  a  violation  is  the  date  of  the  determination.  If  the  parent(s)  or  guardian(s)  cannot  be  reached  by  telephone  it  shall  become  the  responsibility  of  the  student  to  communicate  the  type  of  violation  and  resulting  consequence  to  the  parent(s)  or  guardian(s).  Should  the  parent(s)  or  guardian(s)  wish  to  contact  the  principal  or  designee,  it  preferably  should  be  done  during  the  next  school  day.  In  any  event  the  principal,  or  designee,  before  5:00  p.m.  on  the  day  following  the  date  of  determination  will  send  to  the  parent(s)  or  guardian(s),  by  certified  mail,  a  written  notification  containing:  (1)  the  act  which  is  in  violation  of  this  policy,  (2)  the  date  or  approximate  date  of  the  act,  (3)  the  date  and  time  of  determination,  (4)  that  the  administration  has  visited  with  the  student  about  the  violation,  (5)  the  penalty  imposed,  and  (6)  a  copy  of  this  policy  (503.8)  and  Policy  214.  

G.    Appeal-­‐  if  a  student  or  parent/guardian  wishes  to  appeal  the  decision  of  the  principal  or  designee  to  the  superintendent,  such  appeal  must  be  made  within  120  hours  of  the  conference  held  between  the  principal  or  designee  and  the  student.  The  appeal  shall  be  made  in  writing  during  regular  business  hours.    

H.    Upon  receiving  notice  of  an  appeal,  the  superintendent  shall  investigate  and  hold  an  informal  hearing  within  five  business  days  of  the  receipt  of  the  request  for  appeal.  The  student/parent(s)/guardian(s),  (and  if  requested  by  the  student,  an  advocate  such  as  a  staff  member  or  an  attorney,  or  other  adult)  may  appear  for  the  student.  The  school  may  have  in  attendance  the  personnel  required  to  present  its  version  of  the  events  in  question.  The  hearing  will  be  informal.  The  superintendent  will  present  the  nature  of  the  violation  and  the  evidence  supporting  it.  The  student/parent(s)/guardian(s)  advocate  will  then  have  the  opportunity  to  respond  and  ask  questions.  The  superintendent  may  ask  questions  of  any  person.  The  superintendent  will  prepare  a  written  decision  upholding,  overruling,  or  modifying  the  previous  administrative  decision  within  48  hours  of  the  hearing.  A  procedure  to  communicate  the  decision  shall  be  agreed  upon  at  the  hearing.  

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I.    If  the  student  or  parent(s)/guardian(s)  wishes  to  appeal  the  decision  of  the  superintendent  to  the  school  board,  the  request  must  be  made  in  writing  to  the  superintendent  within  96  hours  of  the  hearing  before  the  superintendent.  The  school  board  has  discretion  to  hear  or  refuse  to  hear  the  appeal.  The  hearing  before  Board  Policy  214  governs  the  school  board.  

J.    A  student  deemed  ineligible  for  a  violation  of  this  policy  shall  not  be  allowed  to  take  part  in  activity  performances.    

K.    Any  punishment  provided  in  this  policy  shall  be  stayed  during  the  appeal  process.  However,  if  the  punishment  is  suspension  from  school  (in  school  or  out  of  school)  or  from  participation  in  extracurricular  activities,  and  the  principal  or  designee,  or  superintendent  determines  that  the  student’s  presence  will  be  contrary  to  the  best  interest  of  education  and  the  punishment  has  been  stayed,  the  punishment  or  suspension  shall  then  resume.  

L.    The  activity  director,  principal,  dean  of  students,  superintendent,  or  school  board,  as  the  case  may  be,  shall  be  the  sole  judge  of  the  weight  of  the  evidence  and  credibility  of  the  witnesses.  Their  conclusions  are  to  be  drawn  from  the  facts  and  circumstances  proved.  

The  following  information  is  to  assist  with  the  implementation  of  Policy  503.4.  One  purpose  of  the  policy  is  to  impress  upon  young  people  that  possession  and  consumption  of  alcohol,  drugs,  and  tobacco  are  illegal  in  addition  to  being  unhealthy  and  negatively  impacting  one’s  physical  and  mental  performances.  

To  implement  Policy  503.4  school  employees  should  consider,  among  other  factors:  

Possession,  evidence  of  direct  use,  on  person,  in  personal  container,  or  in  school  locker  will  be  considered.  In  the  case  of  locker  what  evidence  points  to  this  student  and  not  the  locker  partner?  

Consumption  –  indicators  may  include:  unnatural  speech,  gait,  demeanor,  odor,  watery  eyes,  reason  or  mental  ability  affected,  judgment  impaired,  emotions  visibly  excited,  or  loss  of  control  of  bodily  actions  or  motions.  

1.        Presence  at  Social  Events:  a.   How  do  we  know  minors  were  consuming?  b.   How  do  we  know  this  student  was  present?  c.   Evidence  of  consumption  by  minors,  visibly  and  openly  done,  is  evidence  from  which  we  may  infer  that  the  student  knew  of  the  presence  of  the  alcoholic  beverage  or  drug,  unless  there  is  clear  evidence  to  the  contrary.  

2.      Open  Container  In  Automobile:  a.   Open  container  shall  mean  an  open  or  unsealed  bottle,  can,  jar,  or  other  receptacle  containing  an  alcoholic  beverage,  wine,  or  beer.  b.   How  do  we  know  there  was  an  open  container  or  an  illegal  drug  present  in  the  passenger  compartment?  c.   Why  do  we  have  reason  to  believe  the  student  knew  or  had  reason  to  know  the  open  container  or  drug  was  present?  

3.        Know  or  Should  Have  Known  a.   Know—consciously  aware  b.   Should  have  known—can’t  purposely  ignore  obvious  signs;  if  a  reasonable  person  would  know,  then  student  is  held  to  know.        

All  supervisors  of  secondary  students  –  particularly  extracurricular  coaches  and  directors  -­‐  are  to  discuss  Policy  503.4  at  the  beginning  of  the  school  year  and  at  the  beginning  of  an  extracurricular  activity.  Students  are  to  understand  the  purpose  of  the  policy  and  the  consequences  of  violations.  

A  copy  of  Policy  503.4  and  a  letter  explaining  the  policy  will  be  given  to  each  parent  and  student  when  an  activity  ticket  is  purchased.  The  Letter  of  Explanation  must  be  signed  by  both  the  parent  and  the  student  and  then  returned  to  the  office  of  the  school  where  the  student  attends.  

Students  have  four  choices  when  they  attend  social  events  or  are  in  an  automobile  where  alcohol/drugs  are  present:  

1.  Convince  the  minor(s)  with  alcohol/drugs  to  remove  the  alcohol/drugs  from  the  event  or  car.    2.  Convince  the  individual(s)  with  alcohol/drugs  to  leave.    3.  Leave  the  premises  or  car  yourself.    4.  Risk  being  caught  (or  being  found  out)  and  declared  ineligible.      

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Student Council Student council is available for students in grades 5-8. Student will need to apply to be on student council. Four

students (2 girls and 2 boys) from each grade level will make up the student council. The nomination process for selection will begin in October.

Use of District Facilities (board policy 905.1) School district facilities and equipment will be made available to local nonprofit entities that promote cultural, educational, civic, community, or recreational activities. “Entity (ies)” will include organizations, groups and individuals and their agents. Such use will be permitted only when the use does not interfere with or disrupt the education program or a school-related activity, the use is consistent with state law, and will end no later than midnight. It is within the discretion of the board to allow for-profit entities to use school district facilities and equipment. School district policies, rules and regulations are in effect during these meetings. Please contact the superintendent to reserve any part of the facility. There are forms to be filled out and fees associated with the use of the facility. These forms and fee information can be obtained at the district office located at the high school.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

Abuse and/or Harassment of Students by Employees (board policy 402.3) Physical or sexual abuse of students, including inappropriate and intentional sexual behavior, by employees will not be tolerated. The definition of employees for the purpose of this policy includes not only those who work for pay but also those who are volunteers of the school district under the direction and control of the school district. Employees found in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including discharge. The school district will respond promptly to allegations of abuse of students by school district employees by investigating or arranging for the investigation of an allegation. The processing of a complaint or allegation will be handled confidentially to the maximum extent possible. Employees are required to assist in the investigation when requested to provide information and to maintain the confidentiality of the reporting and investigation process. The school district has appointed a Level I investigator and alternate Level I investigator. The school district has also arranged for a trained, experienced professional to serve as the Level II investigator. The Level I investigator and alternate will be provided training in the conducting of an investigation at the expense of the school district. The names of the investigators are: Dan Keller Child Abuse Reporting All school employees are mandatory reporters to the Department of Human Services regarding abuse or neglect. Reports should be made to the Poweshiek County Department within 48 hours of the called in report – call Human Services at 1-800-342-0829.

Communicable and Infectious Diseases (board policy 507.3) Students with a communicable disease will be allowed to attend school provided their presence does not create a substantial risk of illness or transmission to other students or employees. The term "communicable disease" will mean an infectious or contagious disease spread from person to person, or animal to person, or as defined by law.

Emergency Drills (board policy 507.5) Students will be informed of the appropriate action to take in an emergency. Emergency drills for fire, weather, and other disasters are conducted each school year. Fire and tornado drills are each conducted regularly during the academic school year with a minimum of two before December 31 and two after January 1. At the beginning of each year, teachers notify students of the procedures to follow in the event of a drill. Emergency procedures and proper exit areas are posted in all rooms. Students are expected to remain quiet and orderly during a drill or an emergency. Students who pull the fire alarm or call in false alarms, in addition to being disciplined under the school district's policies, rules and regulations, may be reported to law enforcement officials. Fire drills will not be announced to the students. At the sound of the fire alarm, all students will exit their rooms. Walk at a moderate speed; do not run. The first person going out of the building should hold the door open until everyone has left the building. When outside, move far enough away from the building so that all other students may exit freely.

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Illness or Injury at School (board policy 507.4) When a student becomes ill or is injured at school, the school district will attempt to notify the student's parents as soon as possible. The school district, while not be responsible for medical treatment of an ill or injured student, will have employees present administer emergency or minor first aid if possible. An ill or injured child will be turned over to the care of the parents or qualified medical employees as quickly as possible. It is the responsibility of the principal or designee to file an accident report with the superintendent within twenty-four hours after the student is injured. Life -Threatening Allergies Food allergies are on the rise and more students with potentially life-threatening allergies are enrolling in the Grinnell-Newburg Community School District. A task force of administrators, teachers, nurses, food service personnel, and parents worked together to develop “Administrative Procedures for Students with Life-threatening Allergies.” The most common life-threatening allergies are to peanuts, tree nuts, and shellfish. For students who are highly allergic to nuts, contact with nut products can cause a life-threatening anaphylaxis reaction. The best way to protect these students is to minimize their exposure to nuts. “Administrative Procedures for Life-Threatening Allergies” is available on the school website along with the list of approved food items. Medicines Administered to Students (board policy 507.2) Some students may need prescription and nonprescription medication to participate in their educational program. Medication shall be administered when the student's parent or guardian (hereafter "parent") provides a signed and dated written statement requesting medication administration and the medication is in the original, labeled container, either as dispensed or in the manufacturer's container. A written physician’s statement must be on file for any prescription medication that is to be administered during the school day. When administration of the medication requires ongoing professional health judgment, an authorized practitioner shall develop an individual health plan with the student and the student's parent. Students who have demonstrated competence in administering their own medications may self- administer their medication. A written statement by the student's parent shall be on file requesting co-administration of medication, when competence has been demonstrated. By law, students with asthma or other airway constricting diseases may self-administer their medication upon approval of their parents and prescribing physician regardless of competency. Persons administering medication shall include the licensed registered nurse, physician, persons who have successfully completed a medication administration course, or to be an authorized practitioner, including parents. Medication will not be administered without written authorization that is signed and dated from the parent. All medication must be in the original container, which is labeled by the pharmacy or the manufacturer with the name of the child, name of the medication, time of the day it is to be given, the dosage and duration.

Physicals for Athletics Students participating in athletics are required to provide a school district physical examination form signed by the student's doctor stating the student is physically fit to perform in athletics prior to the start of the sport. Failure to provide proof of a physical examination makes the student ineligible to practice or compete. School Nurse A school nurse is available at the middle school. Accidents or illness during the day should be reported to the supervising teacher immediately. Staff will refer the student to the school nurse.

ROUTINE PROCEDURES AND INFORMATION

Announcements All announcements for students are posted on the web.

Assemblies Periodically the middle school sponsors school assemblies. Attendance at these assemblies is required. Students must act in an orderly fashion and remain quiet on their way to an assembly, during an assembly and on their way back to the classroom after an assembly. Students are expected to attend assemblies unless, for disciplinary reasons, the privilege has been revoked. Students who are not attending assemblies shall report to the office. Academic Assembly – An Academic Assembly will be held during the last week of the school year. Each grade level wears a distinguishing color, creates a song/chant or cheer. These songs/chants or cheers will be sung at various times during the

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assembly; for example upon entry into the gym, during the assembly for the determination of the Spirit Award when grade levels win a trophy, and leaving the gym. Grades 5 compete with grade 6 and grade 7 competes with grade 8 for: highest average GPA, highest attendance average, school involvement (second assembly only), and good character (least total office referrals). All grades compete with each other for the Spirit Award (both assemblies) and Iowa Assessment most improved (second assembly only). Traveling trophies are awarded in each category.

Bicycles Bicycle racks are provided on the northwest corner of the building. Bicycles are to be parked in these racks upon arrival to school and are not to be used until the end of the school day. It is suggested that each student lock his/her bicycle to prevent unauthorized use or theft. Book Bags Each student will be issued a laptop case that they will carry their laptop in to and from class. Students should not need to carry an additional backpack or bag around at school. Exceptions may be made if permission is given by the teacher(s).

Bus Behavior The school bus driver has the responsibility of safely transporting students to and from school. Students are to remain seated on the buses. No wrestling, fighting, throwing things, bothering other students, etc. will be tolerated. Bus drivers have been instructed to report every incident to the transportation director. The privilege of bus transportation can be withdrawn from any student who refuses to cooperate with the bus drivers. All participants riding to and from extracurricular activities will travel in school-sponsored transportation. Use of Video Cameras on School Buses Regulation (board policy 711.2R2) The Grinnell-Newburg Community School District Board of Directors has authorized the use of video cameras on school district buses. The video cameras will be used to monitor student behavior to maintain order on the school buses to promote and maintain a safe environment. Students and parents are hereby notified that the content of the videotapes may be used in a student disciplinary proceeding. The content of the videotapes are confidential student records and will be retained with other student records. Videotapes will only be retained if necessary for use in a student disciplinary proceeding or other matter as determined necessary by the administration. Parents may request to view videotapes of their child if the videotapes are used in a disciplinary proceeding involving their child.

Cell Phones & Electronic Devices Cell Phone Policy (Remotely Activated, or Activating Communication Device Use)

For the purposes of this handbook, "Remotely activated, or activating Communication Devices" are defined to include portable two-way telecommunication devices, including but not limited to cellular telephone with or without cameras, beepers, walkie-talkies, other hand-held computing devices used as a communication device, any portable electronic device capable of storing and; transmitting or receiving images, such as cameras, as well as any new technology developed for similar purposes and will be referred to as cell phones.

Grinnell Middle School extends to students the privilege to possess, display and use cell phones, during meal times, before or after school provided such cell phones are not displayed, activated or used during class time, unless the classroom teacher is encouraging the use of such devices as part of instruction. 5th and 6th grade students should not be using their cell phones during recess time.

Cell phones with cameras and other portable "Remotely Activated or Activating Communication Devices" capable of storing and transmitting or receiving images are banned from locker rooms and rest rooms at ALL times. Students will be disciplined for the possession of cell phones with cameras in school locker rooms or rest rooms. At no time are students authorized to video, photograph or audio record others in the school building or at school activities without the consent of the other party.

Emergency calls should be directed to the middle school office 236-2750, and the school secretary will get the message to the staff member or the student.

Exceptions will be made for students: with specific needs that require such devices as per their Individualized Education Program ("IEP"); and, during a medical or security emergency, if a supervising school official is not in communication with

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emergency responders, or the student is unaware that a supervising school official is in communication with emergency responders.

Cell Phones may not be used in any manner that will cause disruption to the educational environment.

The school district or administration will not be responsible for the loss, damage, destruction, or theft of any electronic device/cell phone brought to school.

Use of cell phones for field trips and extracurricular activities will be at the discretion of the teacher/sponsor/coach.

Students found to be using any electronic communications device in any way to send or receive personal messages, data, or information that would contribute to or constitute cheating on tests or examinations shall be subject to discipline and the device shall be confiscated and not returned until a parent conference has been held. This would also be true for students using the communication device to purposefully and intentionally harm another student through gossip, rumors, and threats. Students violating this rule will not be allowed to possess any personal communication devices following the incident on school property for a period of one trimester.

1st offense - the cell phone will be taken to the office and the student can pick the cell phone up at the end of the day. An office referral will be written up on the student with a warning. The student needs to communicate this incident to their parents.

2nd offense – the cell phone will be taken to the office and the student’s parent must pick the phone up at the school. An office referral will be written up on the student for a half-hour detention.

3rd offense – the cell phone will be taken to the office and the student’s parent must pick the phone up and meet with administration. The student will receive an office referral for a detention.

Cheating

Students are expected to conduct themselves honestly and with integrity in their work. All forms of cheating and plagiarism are prohibited. Behavior that is unacceptable includes, but is not limited to: • copying another student’s homework • working with others on projects or daily assignments that are meant to be done individually • looking at or copying another student’s test or quiz answers • allowing another student to look at or copy answers from your test or quiz • using another method to get/give test or quiz answers • taking a test or quiz, in part or in whole, to give to others • copying information from a source without proper attribution • taking and using papers from other students, publications, or the internet Violators of this policy will be disciplined on a case-by-case basis depending on the seriousness of the violation, prior violations and other factors. Disciplinary measures include, but are not limited to, receiving a failing grade (zero) on the assignment/project/test, receiving a lower overall grade in the class, failing the course, detention, or suspension.

Dress Code & Student Appearance GMS strives to maintain a quality-learning environment in which students are physically and emotionally safe and able to achieve and maintain a positive self-concept. Accordingly, some clothing articles are offensive to students and/or staff and deprive them of a quality-learning environment. In addition, certain messages or logos run contrary to the mission and philosophy of GMS regarding the perils of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. Hats and sunglasses are prohibited once students enter the building. They are to be kept in the student’s locker. All hats and sunglasses not in the locker will be confiscated and returned to the student at the end of the day. Wearing hoods on students’ heads is not allowed as well. Students that repeatedly put their hood up will be subject to an office referral. Repeated offenses will result in detention and/or suspension. The following EXAMPLES of clothing ARE NOT to be worn at GMS.

1. Clothing that displays language with sexual innuendoes. 2. Articles of clothing that portray alcohol/tobacco/drug products or insignias.

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3. Articles of clothing that portray graphic violence or display degrading or profane language. 4. Any attire with holes that expose undergarments or are worn to expose undergarments. 5. Tops that expose the mid section of the body. 6. Any other types of clothing not listed found to be offensive to students or staff is not to be worn, including shorts,

skirts, and tops that are too revealing for a school/business environment.

Driving to School - Students School permits will not be issued to middle school students.

Fines – Fees- Charges (board policy 503.3) The board believes students should respect school district property and assist in its preservation for future use of others. Students may be assessed fines, charges, or fees for the materials needed in a course, for overdue school materials, for participating in activities, or for misuse of school property. At GMS student books must be returned at the completion of each class. If books are not returned, students are charged a replacement fee. A fine will also be assessed for damage to a book that is beyond normal wear. The classroom teacher and the administration determine the amount of each fee or fine. Students may also be charged fines for damage to classroom equipment. Miscellaneous damage not covered below will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Food, Drinks, Gum, or Candy in the Classroom Students will not be allowed to have food, drink, or candy in classrooms. Having these items in class is prohibited. Disciplinary actions will be taken for repeated offenses or if these items create a classroom disruption. Exceptions to this rule include; 100% drinking water in a clear container, and lunch time, and gum will be allowed at the teacher's discretion, and under certain circumstances food and drinks may be allowed with administrative or teacher approval.

• Drinks other than 100% drinking water are not to be consumed between classes or stored in lockers unless unopened for consumption after school hours.

• Food/beverages are never to be consumed in the hallways. • Candy on a stick is prohibited. • Students may bring to school and have mid-morning or mid-afternoon snacks if approved by their classroom teacher.

Inclement Weather

In case of severe weather, announcements of early dismissals, late starts, or cancellations will be made through Alert Now or KGRN 1410 AM radio, WHO TV, and on our school district website.

Lockers (board policy 502.5) Student lockers are the property of the school district. Students shall use the lockers assigned to them by the school district for storing their school materials and personal belongings necessary for attendance at school. It shall be the responsibility of each student to keep his or her assigned lockers clean and undamaged. To ensure students are properly maintaining their assigned locker, the principal of the building may periodically inspect all or a random selection of lockers and desks. Either students or an additional school employee will be present during the inspection of lockers and desks. Student lockers and desks may also be searched, at any time and without advance notice, in compliance with board policy regulating search and seizure.

Lunch and Breakfast Program All students will eat lunch at the middle school. In certain situations students may be given permission to leave the school during the lunch period if their parents have previously notified the school. Students are to display courtesy and good manners in the lunchroom as in any part of the school. All students including those that bring their lunch must go to the lunchroom during the assigned lunch period. No food is to be taken from the lunchroom area. Administration/counselors may grant exceptions to this rule. In the interest of good nutrition (and federal law), pop is not allowed in the lunchroom during lunch periods.

Lunch Money Money brought to school for lunch and a-la-carte funds should to be brought to the lunchroom each morning before the start of the school day.

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Physical Education Policies/Requirements (board policy 603.6) Students in grades one through twelve are required to participate in physical education courses unless the principal of their attendance center excuses them. Students may be excused from physical education courses if the student presents a written statement from a doctor stating that such activities could be injurious to the health of the student tor the student has been exempted because of a conflict with the student’s religious beliefs.

Physical Activity (Health Kids Act, State of Iowa) State law requires every middle school student to have 120 minutes of physical activity each week. To meet this expectation, students are required to engage in physical activity three times a cycle through physical education classes, or daily at recess. Other options for meeting this requirement include participation in athletics or various activities away from school. Physical Restraint of Students State law forbids school employees from using corporal punishment against any student. Certain actions by school employees are not considered corporal punishment. Additionally, school employees may use “reasonable and necessary force, not designed or intended to cause pain” to do certain things, such as prevent harm to persons or property. State law also places limits on school employees’ abilities to restrain or confine and detain any student. The law limits why, how, where, and for how long a school employee may restrain or confine and detain a child. If a child is restrained or confined and detained, the school must maintain documentation and must provide certain types of notice to the child’s parent.

If you have any questions about this state law, please contact your school. The complete text of the law and additional information is available on the Iowa Department of Education’s Website link http://www.iowa.gov/educate/ and search for Timeout, Seclusion and Restraint.

Schedule Changes Students may apply for a schedule change through the counseling office. All schedule changes require parent approval and schedule changes after the first five days of each trimester require approval from the principal. Approvals for schedule changes will be given on the merit of each case and will not be automatic. School Song We are the mighty Tigers! To Grinnell we will be true. We’ll back our teams forever, our voices raised for you. We cheer you, mighty Tigers; our support you’ll never lack. For Tigers are defenders of the orange and the black! V-i-c-t-o-r-y Grinnell Tigers Fight! Search and Seizure Regulations (board policy 502.8) School district property is held in public trust by the board. School district authorities may, without a search warrant, search students or protected student areas based on a reasonable and articulable suspicion that schools maintain order and discipline in the schools, promote the educational environment, and protect the safety and welfare of students, employees, and visitors to the school district facilities. The furnishing of a locker, desk, or other facility or space owned by the school and provided as a courtesy to a student, even if the student provides the lock for it, will not create a protected student areas and will not give rise to an expectation of privacy with respect to the locker, desk, or other facility. (See Board Policy 502.8 for the complete policy) At GMS -- A search of a student, student’s possessions, or those items issued to a student by the district (lockers, desks, textbook, etc…), will be justified when there are reasonable grounds for the suspicion that the search will turn up evidence that the student has violated or is violating the law or school district policy, rules or regulations affecting school order. Factors such as the following may form reasonable suspicion:

a. Eyewitness observations by employees b. Information received from reliable sources c. Suspicious behavior by the student d. The students past history and school record, although this factor alone is not sufficient to provide the basis for

reasonable suspicion. A search will be permissible in its scope or intrusiveness when the measure adopted is reasonably related to the objectives of the search. Reasonableness of scope or intrusiveness may be determined based on factors such as the following.

a. The age of the student

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b. The sex of the student c. The nature of the infraction d. The emergency requiring the search without delay

Student Planners Grinnell Middle School students and staff are expected to use the student management systems Edmodo (grades 5 and 6) and Canvas (grades 7 and 8) during the school year to manage assignments and school/class information.

Student Complaints (board policy – 502.4) Student complaints and grievances regarding board policy or administrative regulations and other matters should be addressed to the student’s teacher or another licensed employee, other than the administration, for resolution of the complaint. It is the goal of the board to resolve student complaints at the lowest organizational level. If a licensed employee cannot resolve the complaint, the student may discuss the matter with the principal within four school days of the employee’s decision. If the principal cannot resolve the matter, the student may discuss it with the superintendent with four school days after speaking with the principal. In extenuating circumstances, exceptions to this timeline may be granted to the students. If the superintendent does not satisfactorily resolve the matter, the student may ask to have the matter placed on the board agenda of a regularly scheduled board meeting in compliance with board policy.

Student Publications Official school publications are free from prior restraint by school officials except as provided by law. A faculty advisor shall supervise student writers to maintain professional standards of English and journalism and to comply with the law, including, but not limited to, the restrictions against unlawful speech. The production of official school publications shall be guided by the law and by the ethical standards adopted by professional associations of societies of journalism. Persons, other than students, who believe they have been aggrieved by student expression in a student produced official school publication, shall follow the grievance procedure outlined in Board Policy 213.1R1. Students who believe their freedom of expression in a student produced official school publication has been restricted shall follow the grievance procedure outlined in Board Policy 504.3R1.

Tiger Club Tiger Club is the middle school parent organization. Its intent is to enhance and support the educational experience at Grinnell Middle School through volunteerism and financial support; successfully developing a closer connection between school and home by encouraging parental and community involvement. The group typically meets 3-4 times a year. They have a newsletter and website. There will be information coming to you via email regarding meeting dates and times, but call the office if you have questions or want to find out more about how you can become a part of this group.

Tiger Time Every student at GMS will be assigned to a Tiger Time. Tiger Time meets opposite the student’s lunchtime. Tiger Time is an advisor-advisee program of the Grinnell Middle School that is designed to meet the academic, social, emotional and physical needs of students in grades 5-8. The advisor/advisee program is a time set aside each day to assist students and teachers in developing a positive school climate. The advisor/advisee program allows time for building relationships and gives students opportunities for using those skills in school and community settings.  

Visitors/Guests Visitors must check in at the GMS office to obtain a visitor’s pass and to sign in. School age students must have a parent/guardian escort them if they wish to visit a classroom. Wellness GMS  promotes  student  health  by  supporting  wellness,  quality  nutrition,  and  regular  physical  activity  as  part  of  the  total  learning  environment  (Policy  507.9).    Please  encourage  healthy  snacks  and  regular  physical  activity  throughout  a  students’  day.    Teachers  are  encouraged  to  use  other  means  rather  than  withholding  recess  as  punishment  for  late  work.        

MISCELLANEOUS (Legal Notifications)

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Asbestos Notification (board policy 804.4)

Friable and non-friable asbestos containing materials will be maintained in good condition and appropriate precautions will be followed when the material is disturbed. If there is a need to replace asbestos it will be replaced with non-asbestos containing materials. The school district will annually notify, appoint and train appropriate employees as necessary.

Distribution of Materials (board policy 903.5 903.5R1) Non-curricular materials to be distributed or displayed must be approved by the building principal and meet certain standards prior to their distribution.

Equal Educational Opportunity (board policy 102) The board will not discriminate in its educational activities based on any of the following actual or perceived traits or characteristics, including but not limited to age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status, or familial status. The board requires all persons, agencies, vendors, contractors, and other persons and organizations doing business with or performing services for the school district to subscribe to all applicable federal and state laws, executive orders, rules and regulations pertaining to contract compliance and equal opportunity. The board is committed to the policy that no otherwise qualified person will be excluded from educational activities based on any of the following actual or perceived traits or characteristics, including but not limited to age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status, or familial status. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over 18 years of age ("Eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student's education records. They are: (1) The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the district receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal or appropriate school official will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. (see Exhibit 506.1E5) (2) The right to request the amendment of the student's education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading or in violation of the student's privacy rights. Parents or eligible students may ask the school district to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the district decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the district will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing. (see Exhibit 506.1E4) (3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the district as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the school board; a person or company with whom the district has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, AEA employees, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee or student assistance team, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. (see Exhibit 506.1E2) (4) The right to inform the school district that the parent does not want directory information, as defined below, to be released. Directory information can be released without prior parental consent. Any student over the age of eighteen or parent not wanting this information released to the public must make object in writing to the principal. The objection needs to be renewed annually. Directory information is defined as: Name, Address, Telephone Listing, Date of Birth, Email Address, Grade Level, Enrollment Status, Major Field of Study, Participation in Officially Recognized Activities and Sports, Weight and Height of Members of Athletic Teams, Dates of Attendance, Degrees and Awards Received, the Most Recent School or Institution Attended by the Student, Photograph and Likeness and Other Similar Information. (5) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Ave., SW, Washington, DC, 20202-4605.

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Free or Reduced Cost Meals Eligibility (board policy 710.2) Students enrolled and attending school in the school district, who are unable to afford the lunch program, the cost or a portion of the cost of the school lunch, breakfast, and supplemental foods, will be provided the school food program services at no cost or at a reduced cost.

Inspection of Educational Materials (board policy 605.2) Parents and other members of the school district community may view the instructional materials used by students. All instructional materials, including teacher’s manuals, films, tapes or other supplementary material which will be used in connection with any survey, analysis, or evaluation as part of any federally funded programs must be available for inspection by parents. The instructional materials must be viewed on school district premises. Copies may be obtained according to board policy.

Jurisdictional Statement This handbook is an extension of board policy and is a reflection of the goals and objectives of the board. This handbook and school district policies, rules and regulations are in effect while students are on school grounds, school district property or on property within the jurisdiction of the school district; while on school-owned and/or school-operated buses or vehicles or chartered buses; while attending or engaging in school activities; and while away from school grounds if the misconduct directly affects the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district or involves students or staff. School district policies, rules and regulations are in effect 12 months a year. A violation of a school district policy, rule or regulation may result in disciplinary action and may affect a student's eligibility to participate in extracurricular activities whether the violation occurred while school was in session or while school was not in session. The Grinnell Community School District reserves and retains the right to modify, eliminate or establish school district policies, rules and regulations as circumstances warrant, including those contained in the handbook. Students are expected to know the contents of the handbook and comply with it. Students or parents with questions or concerns may contact the office (641-236-2750) for information about the current enforcement of the policies, rules or regulations of the school district. MacBook Policy and Procedures (see board policy 605.61) The Grinnell-Newburg Community School District is a 1:1 district for grades 5-8. Each student at the middle school is issued a MacBook laptop at the beginning of the school year. The 1:1 integration of technology in our school is viewed as a way of promoting learning. There are other benefits fro the integration of technology, but student learning will always be at the forefront. We have created a technology tab on our school website that will help answer questions and concerns of parents and students. Students and parents will participate in a “1:1 roll out” at the beginning of the school year. At this time the policy will be reviewed and expectations explained. Students will receive their laptop after both parent and student have completed the appropriate forms. It should be noted that the laptop issued to the students is the property of the Grinnell-Newburg School District. The Grinnell-Newburg Community School District retains the sole right of possession and/or ownership of District equipment including but not limited to: the Apple MacBook computer; computer equipment including but limited to any materials, software or programs owned by and/or installed on the computer by the District; District internet; and/or District e-mail. The District grants permission to the student to use the District equipment and/or resources, for educational purposes only, according to the guidelines set forth in the MacBook Policy and Procedures document (board policy 605.61); the Student Handbook; District rules and/or policies; and all applicable laws.

Multicultural/Gender Fair Education (board policy 603.4) Students will have an equal opportunity for a quality education without discrimination, regardless of their race, religion, creed, socioeconomic status, color, sex, marital status, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. The education program is free of discrimination and provides equal opportunity for the students. The education program will foster knowledge or and respect and appreciation for the historical and contemporary contributions of diverse cultural groups, as well as men and women, to society. Special emphasis is placed on Asian Americans, African –Americans, Hispanic Americans, Native Americans, and persons with disabilities. It will also reflect the wide variety of roles open to both men and women and provide equal opportunity to both sexes.

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Nondiscrimination Policy The Grinnell-Newburg School District does not discriminate on the basis of age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status, or familial status. Students, parents of students, applicants for employment and employees of the Grinnell-Newburg School District shall have the right to file a formal complaint alleging non-compliance with equity regulations. Inquiries concerning application of this statement should be addressed to: Heidi Durbin, Equity Coordinator, Grinnell-Newburg School District, 927 – 4th Avenue, Grinnell, Iowa 50112, Telephone (641) 236-2700.

Educational Records (board policy 506.1) The board recognizes the importance of maintaining student records and preserving their confidentiality. Student records containing personally identifiable information are kept confidential at collection, storage, disclosure, and destruction stages. The board secretary is the custodian of student records. Student records may be maintained in the central administration office or administrative office of the student's attendance center. Parents and eligible students will have access to the student's records during the regular business hours of the school district. An eligible student is a student who has reached eighteen years of age or is attending an institution of postsecondary education at the post high school level. Parents of an eligible student are provided access to the student records only with the written permission of the eligible student unless the Internal Revenue Code defines the eligible student as a dependent. In that case, the parents may be provided access without the written permission of the student. A representative of the parents or eligible student, who has received written permission from the parents or eligible student, may inspect and review a special education student's records. Parents, other than parents of an eligible student, may be denied access to a student's records if the school district has a court order stating such or when the district has been advised under the appropriate laws that the parents may not access the student records. Parents may inspect an instrument used for the purpose of collection of student personal information prior to the instrument’s use.

Teacher Qualifications and Licensure (NCLB policy) As parents/guardians of students in the Grinnell Community School District, you have the right to information regarding your child’s teacher’s qualifications, state licensure status, special endorsements for grade level subject areas taught and baccalaureate/graduate certification/degree. Parents/guardians may request this information from the superintendent’s office by calling 641-236-2700, or by sending a letter of request to: Office of the Superintendent, 1333 Sunset, Grinnell, Iowa 50112.

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