LOS COYOTES MIDDLE SCHOOL 2016-2017 Student Handbook

HOME OF THE CENTURIONS!

w AVID w Band w Centurion Honors Magnet w w Drama w Guitar w Leadership w Medical & Forensic Magnet

w Medieval Arts & Fencing w Photography & Video Production w Project Lead the Way w Yearbook w Spanish

JACOB MUNIZ, PRINCIPAL TAMI CAMMARATA, ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL

DEBRA PIAZZA, COUNSELOR SANDRA CONTRERAS, INTERVENTION COUNSELOR

14640 Mercado Avenue La Mirada, California 90638

714.739.2368

www.loscoyotesms.org

This Student Handbook belongs to:

_______________________________________

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2016-2017 LCMS SCHOOL CALENDAR Back to School Night…………………………………………………………………………August 31 Labor Day…………………………………………………………………………………. September 5 End of 1st Quarter…………………………………………………………………………… October 14 Red Ribbon Week……………………………………………………………………… October 23 - 31 NLMUSD College Night…………………………………………………………………… October 19 Parent/Teacher Conference Week………………………………………………………..October 17-21 Veteran's Day (observed)………………………………………………………………… November 11 Thanksgiving Recess…………………………………………………………………November 23 - 27 End of 1st Semester (end of 2nd Quarter) ...……..………………………………………...December 22 Winter Recess………………………………………………………………...December 23 - January 9 First Day of New Semester…………………………………………………………………..January 10 Martin Luther King Day……………………………………………………………………..January 16 Open House………………………………………………………………………………….January 18 Lincoln's Birthday Observed……………………………………………………………….February 13 President’s Day Observed………………………………………………………………….February 20 End of 3rd Quarter…………………………………………………………………………….March 17 Parent/Teacher Conference Week………………………………………………………..March 20 - 24 Spring Recess ……………………………………………………………………………..April 14 - 21 Memorial Day…………………………………………………………………………………..May 29 Last Day of Student Attendance…………………………………………………………………June 1

Table of Contents

Absences and Attendance ......................................................................................................................3 Academic Honesty Policy ....................................................................................................................10 Acceptable Use Policy ...........................................................................................................................8 Behavior/Loss of Activities…………………………………………………………………………. 10 Bell Schedule .......................................................................................................................................13 Bicycles, Skateboards, & Scooters ........................................................................................................5 Cafeteria .................................................................................................................................................5 Care of School Property .........................................................................................................................8 Cell Phones, Music Players, All Electronic Devices .............................................................................8 Character Counts ..................................................................................................................................15 Closed Campus ......................................................................................................................................4 Conduct ................................................................................................................................................. 5 Dress Code ......................................................................................................................................... 4/5 Excessive Display of Affection .............................................................................................................5 Extracurricular Attendance Requirement ..............................................................................................7 Financial Responsibility .........................................................................................................................8 Front/Back Parking Lots ......................................................................................................................12 Health Services ......................................................................................................................................7 Leaving During School Day ..................................................................................................................3 Lockdown/Fire/Disaster Drills ...............................................................................................................7 Lost and Found ......................................................................................................................................5 Make-up Work .......................................................................................................................................8 Medication Taken at School ..................................................................................................................8 Nondiscrimination ..................................................................................................................................7 Personal Items ........................................................................................................................................3 Promotion Criteria ………………………………………………………………………………….. 16 Scholastic Recognition .........................................................................................................................15 School Activities ..................................................................................................................................11 Sexual Harassment .................................................................................................................................7 Student Searches ....................................................................................................................................6 Suspensions/Expulsions-Education Code .......................................................................................... 6/7 Tardy Policy and Procedures ............................................................................................................. 3/4 Textbook/Financial Responsibility ........................................................................................................7 Theft .......................................................................................................................................................6 Threats/Intimidation/Fighting ................................................................................................................6 Unsatisfactory Progress Reports ............................................................................................................8 Withdrawals ...........................................................................................................................................8 LCMS Pride Pledge .............................................................................................................................14

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ABSENCES—APPROVED Absences will be excused upon proper verification when due to illness, immediate family death, medical or dental appointments, court appearances, or recognized religious observances. Parents are asked to call the school at (714) 739-2368 on the day of a legitimate student absence and/or provide a written excuse upon the student’s return to school.

ABSENCES

Students have three days to clear absences after their return to school. Absences uncleared after three days will become unexcused. A written note from a parent or guardian within the three-day limit may clear absences. If an absence goes unverified for 10 days from the date of the absence, it will be changed to a truancy, which constitutes a parent violation. Once it becomes truant, it will not be changed. If a student continues to have excessive absences, tardies, or truancies, the student and parent will have a conference with administration. The student and family may be referred to the Student Attendance Review Team (SART). If there is no improvement, the student and family will be referred to the Student Attendance Review Board (SARB), which is held at the Norwalk Court House.

ATTENDANCE

All persons under eighteen years of age who have not graduated from high school are required by state law to attend school. Because a large part of student success in school depends on regular class attendance, LCMS students are expected to attend each of their scheduled classes promptly and regularly, avoiding absences whenever possible.

LEAVING DURING SCHOOL DAYAny absences resulting from a student leaving during the school day (doctor/dentist appointment, illness, court appearance, etc.) must be pre-approved by a parent either through a phone call or a note. Students must first check out through the Office. If a student must leave during the school day due to illness, he/she must come to the Attendance Office where a parent/guardian will be contacted for approval.

PERSONAL ITEMS The LCMS Office cannot accept flowers, balloons, and similar items on students’ behalf. Thank you for not delivering or having these delivered to school. Additionally, if items (such as lunches, P.E. clothes, etc.) must be left for students in selected urgent situations, please understand that students will come to the Main Office in between classes to retrieve these items. If pizza box(es) are brought to school parent or guardian must stay with student until food is finished. Money and other items of worth may not be left at any time. Students are advised not to bring valuable items to school. Students are responsible for all personal items, school-issued items, or items left unattended (i.e. backpacks, cell phones, tablets, etc.). Los Coyotes Middle School provides P.E. locker facilities, but cannot guarantee the security of items placed in lockers by students.

TARDY POLICY

Promptness to class is considered an important factor to student development. In addition, punctuality is necessary to the educational process because it reduces interruptions, increases time on task, and minimizes duplication of instruction. Student attendance can be tracked daily via PowerSchool. The following are the consequences for habitual tardiness:

First Tardy

• Warning. Handled by individual teachers. Second Tardy

• Referral to office. 30-minute after school detention. Parent notified by teacher. Third Tardy (& any additional tardies)

• Referral to office. 30-minute after school detention. Parent notified by teacher. • Possible Parent Conference. • Possible referral to SART.

TARDY PROCEDURES

• Students will have a passing period between classes to use the restroom and to go and from class. • Students who are not seated in their classroom at the end of the passing period will be considered tardy.

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• Any district staff member can issue a tardy if the student is out of class without signing out of the classroom. • When a student is tardy in the morning, they must report to the office, sign the tardy log, and get a pass to class. • If a student is tardy due to a doctor/dentist/court appointment, please bring a note from that office in order for the tardy to be

marked excused.

CLOSED CAMPUS Los Coyotes Middle School's campus is closed all day from 8:35 am to 3:00 pm. The campus is closed for all students during class time and break.

DRESS CODE

It is expected that all students dress appropriately in order that the educational process is not disrupted. For the purpose of safety and continuity of the instructional program, we ask your cooperation in making Los Coyotes Middle School a positive learning environment. While on campus, or at any school-sponsored event, students shall be dressed and groomed in a manner which will neither adversely affect the instructional program nor violate reasonable and acceptable standards of cleanliness, safety, or appropriateness as judged by the Staff and/or Administration of Los Coyotes Middle School. District Uniform Policy requires students to wear a white shirt, blouse, or top and dark blue pants, shorts, skirts, dresses, or jumpers. Parents or guardians can sign a uniform waver if they do not desire to participate. The Application for Exemption from the Student Uniform Requirement will be provided upon request. Please refer to the following dress code standards.

Statement of School Policy, Rules, & Regulations 1. Shirts, Blouses, and Tops

a. Shirts or tops must be hemmed, properly buttoned, not contain any inappropriate designs or logos, and have sleeves. The “two finger rule” for straps and shirts is no longer a guideline. Sleeveless shirts, tank tops, and sheer shirts are not allowed.

b. Spaghetti straps, strapless, backless, halter-tops, low necklines, cleavage, bare midriff when arms are raised, and tube tops are not allowed.

c. Lace shirts must have a liner. Undergarments are not to be visible at any time. 2. Pants, Shorts, Skirts, Dresses, and Jumpers

a. Shorts are permitted. All shorts must have an inseam of at least 4 inches. b. Skirts and dresses are to be at least fingertip length when arms are straight to the side (the 4 inch inseam guideline

for shorts will be observed). While we recognize that body types are different, students will be asked to change if clothes are deemed inappropriate. Leggings and/or yoga pants may be worn under shorts or a skirt that still meets dress code requirements, but not without those items.

c. Pants MUST NOT sag and undergarments are not to show at any time. Students who display undergarments such as boxers above the waist of their pants will be asked to change.

d. Pants, shorts, skirts, and dresses are to be of proper length, have appropriate sleeves/coverage, and must be hemmed. No cut-offs, baggy pants, or pants with holes or slits are allowed.

3. Socks, Shoes, and Boots a. Students should wear protective footwear on campus at all times. Flip-flop style sandals do not provide adequate

foot protection and are not considered acceptable footwear at LCMS. Students are encouraged to wear footwear that covers and protects feet and toes.

b. Students must have a pair of tennis shoes for P.E. c. Students may not wear slippers or steel-toed shoes at all.

4. Hats, Beanies, and Hoods a. Students, regardless of gender, are not permitted to wear hats, hoods, or beanies indoors. Students are required to

remove headwear upon entering any room on campus. When wearing a hat, the bill of the hat must face forward. Hoods are only to be worn during inclement weather. Otherwise, hoods are not to be worn on the head.

5. Belts a. Belts must be properly threaded inside belt loops. No chains of any kind are allowed at any time.

6. Make-up and Hair a. It is recommended for students to wear minimal make-up to school and style hair so that it does not distract the

learning educational process of others. 7. Jewelry

a. Jewelry should complement a student’s appearance and should not be distracting or unsafe. It is recommended that students do not wear expensive jewelry or watches at school. Specifically not allowed are brass knuckles, sunglasses inside the classroom (unless medically prescribed), items that promote racism, sexism, ethnic or religious bigotry, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, violence, graffiti, or other illegal activities.

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See-Through Sagging Tube Tops

Pajamas Midriffs Short Shorts

Spaghetti Straps No Hats In-doors No Beanies In-doors

Bandanas

EXCESSIVE DISPLAY OF AFFECTION Excessive displays of affection are inappropriate for students at Los Coyotes Middle School. Students are not to hold hands or engage in excessive hugging or kissing. If behavior is consistent progressive discipline will be applied.

BICYCLES, SKATEBOARDS, & SCOOTERS Bicycles are considered modes of transportation for students at Los Coyotes Middle School, and, therefore, students are allowed to ride them to and from school. However, they may not be ridden on LCMS property. Students are required to walk bikes while on campus. Bikes may be locked in the bike rack. The school and District are not responsible for damage and/or theft of bike or bike parts. The riding of skateboards and scooters on the Los Coyotes Middle School campus is prohibited. Students may not bring a skateboard or scooter to school as means of transportation.

CAFETERIA The school cafeteria provides hot, nutritious lunches on school days. Breakfast and other snack type items are provided before school, at break, and at lunch. Students are not permitted to bring outside food/drink on campus for the purpose of sale. Unless instructed otherwise by school personnel, students are forbidden to take or consume food or drinks in the classrooms or buildings.

LOST AND FOUND

Books and other articles found about the campus should be turned in to the Main Office where owners may reclaim them. If student or school property is lost or stolen during the school day, the student should fill out an incident report in the Main Office.

CONDUCT

In developing self-discipline, students shall be responsible for their own behavior. The following behavioral expectations are held for Los Coyotes Middle School students:

1. Showing respect and courtesy for the rights and feelings of others. 2. Behaving in a way that creates a positive learning environment. 3. Controlling behavior on campus and in the walkways so that classes in session are not disturbed. 4. Behaving in a way to maintain the pride and good reputation of LCMS at school or at any school-related function. 5. Helping to maintain a clean, safe campus. 6. Obeying all reasonable requests made by instructors, administrators, and/or other school employees.

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BEHAVIOR/ Possible LOSS OF ACTIVITIES Multiple disciplinary infractions MAY prevent students from participating in extracurricular activities (ex. dances, picnics, graduation celebrations, etc.). This will be determined by administration and on a case by case circumstance.

THREATS, INTIMIDATION, FIGHTING Intimidation involves threats of mental or physical harm or pressure. Examples of this behavior include, but are not limited to, bullying, domineering, extorting, or otherwise attempting to influence someone with the use of frightening action and/or words. Students who engage in threats, intimidation, or fighting may be subject to school and law enforcement consequences, including arrest and transfer from LCMS. It is the expectation that students remove themselves from potential physical altercations, and report behavior that may escalate to physical harm. It is important to note that education code does not distinguish between mutual combatants with regards to who may engage first. All parties are disciplined accordingly should a physical altercation take place. Should a student feel threatened, intimidated, or bullied, they need to report the action immediately to school administration. A conflict resolution will be held to correct the behavior and allow the offending party or parties to curb the unwarranted behavior. Should the behavior continue, progressive discipline will be applied as deemed necessary for the health and safety of all students.

STUDENT SEARCHES

Searches may be conducted by school officials when reasonable suspicion or cause exists that items, disruptive to school activities, or illegal and/or dangerous objects or substances may be present on school property or when some other violation of law, district policy, or school rules and regulations is imminent or has occurred. Students may be required to empty their pockets and have their personal property searched. Searches may be conducted on items such as, but not limited to, clothing, purses, backpacks, lockers, and cell phones.

THEFT We would like to make Los Coyotes Middle School a “No Theft Zone,” however, in order to achieve this; all students must keep their personal non-school related items, any other expensive personal items, and large amounts of money at home. It is important to understand that these items are prohibited at LCMS; therefore, LCMS cannot be responsible for investigating if they become lost or stolen. By keeping these items of value at home, students protect themselves from being a victim of theft. If you are a victim of theft, you may make a report, however LCMS staff is not responsible for any lost or stolen property.

SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION Education Code

Per California Education Code 48900, students may be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion for the following actions: 48900. A pupil may not be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion, unless the superintendent or the principal of the school in which the pupil is enrolled determines that the pupil has committed an act as defined pursuant to any of subdivisions (a) to (q), inclusive: (a) (1) Caused, attempted to cause, or threatened to cause physical injury to another person. (2) Willfully used force or violence upon the person of another, except in self-defense. (b) Possessed, sold, or otherwise furnished any firearm, knife, explosive, or other dangerous object, unless, in the case of possession of any object of this type, the pupil had obtained written permission to possess the item from a certificated school employee, which is concurred in by the principal or the designee of the principal. (c) Unlawfully possessed, used, sold, or otherwise furnished, or been under the influence of, any controlled substance listed in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 11053) of Division 10 of the Health and Safety Code, an alcoholic beverage, or an intoxicant of any kind. (d) Unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell any controlled substance listed in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 11053) of Division 10 of the Health and Safety Code, an alcoholic beverage, or an intoxicant of any kind, and either sold, delivered, or otherwise furnished to any person another liquid, substance, or material and represented the liquid, substance, or material as a controlled substance, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant. (e) Committed or attempted to commit robbery or extortion. (f) Caused or attempted to cause damage to school property or private property. (g) Stolen or attempted to steal school property or private property. (h) Possessed or used tobacco, or any products containing tobacco or nicotine products, including, but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, miniature cigars, clove cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew packets, and betel. However, this section does not prohibit use or possession by a pupil of his or her own prescription products. (i) Committed an obscene act or engaged in habitual profanity or vulgarity. (j) Unlawfully possessed or unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell any drug paraphernalia, as defined in Section 11014.5 of the Health and Safety Code. (k) Disrupted school activities or otherwise willfully defied the valid authority of supervisors, teachers, administrators, school officials, or other school personnel engaged in the performance of their duties. (l) Knowingly received stolen school property or private property. (m) Possessed an imitation firearm. As used in this section, "imitation firearm" means a replica of a firearm that is so substantially similar

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in physical properties to an existing firearm as to lead a reasonable person to conclude that the replica is a firearm. (n) Committed or attempted to commit a sexual assault as defined in Section 261, 626c, 286, 288, 288a, or 289 of the Penal Code or committed a sexual battery as defined in Section 243.4 of the Penal Code. (o) Harassed, threatened, or intimidated a pupil who is a complaining witness or a witness in a school disciplinary proceeding for the purpose of either preventing that pupil from being a witness or retaliating against that pupil for being a witness, or both. (p) Unlawfully offered, arranged to sell, negotiated to sell, or sold the prescription drug Soma. (q) Engaged in, or attempted to engage in, hazing as defined in subdivision (b) of Section 245.6 of the Penal Code. (r) A pupil may not be suspended or expelled for any of the acts enumerated in this section, unless that act is related to school activity or school attendance occurring within a school under the jurisdiction of the superintendent or principal or occurring within any other school district. A pupil may be suspended or expelled for acts that are enumerated in this section and related to school activity or attendance that occur at any time, including, but not limited to, any of the following: (1) While on school grounds. (2) While going to or coming from school. (3) During the lunch period whether on or off the campus. (4) During, or while going to or coming from, a school sponsored activity. (s) A pupil who aids or abets, as defined in Section 31 of the Penal Code, the infliction or attempted infliction of physical injury to another person may suffer suspension, but not expulsion, pursuant to this section, except that a pupil who has been adjudged by a juvenile court to have committed, as an aider and abettor, a crime of physical violence in which the victim suffered great bodily injury or serious bodily injury shall be subject to discipline pursuant to subdivision (a). (t) As used in this section, "school property" includes, but is not limited to, electronic files and databases. (u) A superintendent or principal may use his or her discretion to provide alternatives to suspension or expulsion, including, but not limited to, counseling and an anger management program, for a pupil subject to discipline under this section. (v) It is the intent of the Legislature that alternatives to suspension or expulsion be imposed against any pupil who is truant, tardy, or otherwise absent from school activities.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Los Coyotes Middle School is committed to maintaining an educational environment free from harassment, embarrassment, intimidation, or insult on the basis of an individual’s gender. Action will be taken when necessary to eliminate such practices or remedy the effects. LCMS will not tolerate the sexual harassment of any student or employee by any other student or any District employee. Any student found guilty of sexual harassment shall be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion and/or law enforcement involvement. LCMS requests students to immediately report complaints of sexual harassment to the administration. Any kind of retaliation for reporting sexual harassment is prohibited and will be dealt with severely.

EXTRACURRICULAR ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENT Students may not take part in an afternoon and/or evening school activity on any school day as participants unless they have been in attendance at school for all registered periods. Transfers issued by school authorities for school-related business will count as school attendance. Activities affected would include, for example, athletic contests, dramatic and musical performances.

TEXTBOOK AND FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Students will be given textbooks to check out in most core courses; it is their responsibility to take care of the books properly and return them at the end of the course or when asked. Fines will be levied for damaged books (e.g., writing in books, etc.) or for non-returned/lost books. Also students are often loaned school property for other classes/activities, such as athletic or band uniforms. Not returning school property will result in a fine upon student records. Students may not be able to participate in certain functions (e.g. dances, ceremonies, etc.), receive their transcripts unless all fines are cleared. Any check that is returned to LCMS due to insufficient funds or closed bank accounts will be assessed a returned check fee.

HEALTH SERVICES

Students are responsible for reporting all injuries, which occur on school grounds. When medical attention is needed, the school personnel will contact parents so that they may take the student to the family physician. If the injury requires immediate medical attention, the Paramedics will be called. It is imperative that the school has current phone numbers—home, work, and/or cell—so emergency contact can be made. Students who become ill at school should report to the Office where parents will be contacted for permission to leave school or to be picked up. Students who leave ill without going through the Office will be counted as truant and therefore unexcused.

LOCKDOWN/FIRE/DISASTER DRILLS

During a fire drill, students will leave classrooms following the directions given by the teacher and will return to the classroom when “all clear” is announced. For disaster drills, teachers will direct students to drop and cover, and wait for evacuation instructions. Teachers will lead students to designated evacuation locations at the field until signaled to return to classes. A lockdown of school facilities is for security or safety reasons. An administrator or other campus personnel will announce, “This is a Lockdown" over the loudspeaker system. Students will follow the directions of the teacher in their class; students not in direct supervision by a teacher (e.g., on the way to the restroom) should go to the nearest classroom. An "all clear" will be called over the loudspeaker system when it is deemed to be safe.

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NONDISCRIMINATION Nondiscrimination on basis of sex, race, color, religious background, national origin or ancestry, ethnic group identification, marital or parental status, gender, age, physical or mental disability, gender preference, sexual orientation or the perception of one or more such characteristics, or economic status is not tolerated within the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District.

UNSATISFACTORY PROGRESS REPORT (UPR) Teachers may send unsatisfactory progress reports at any time during the school year when a student is in danger of failing a class or in danger of not receiving full credit because of truancies or tardies. Parents, guardians, and students are encouraged to sign up and monitor attendance and grades through the online PowerSchool program. Check with the Office for information on how to log into the system.

WITHDRAWALS In order for a student to withdraw from Los Coyotes Middle School, a request must be made in writing by the student’s parent/guardian. Students are required to check out of all classes and return school property such as textbooks, library books and other school property before withdrawal is completed. Withdrawals may also be made administratively for disciplinary or truancy reasons or failure to earn full credits.

ACCEPTABLE USE of TECHNOLOGY POLICY The Acceptable Use of Technology Policy (AUP) must be signed by both students and their parent/guardian in order to use the school’s Internet-ready computers. Students are responsible for their behavior on school computer networks as well as personal electronic devices and networks just as they are in a classroom or school hallway. General school rules for behavior and communications apply, as do the standards addressed in the Acceptable Use Policy. Students are required to turn in verification that both they and their parent/guardian read and will adhere to the Acceptable Use of Technology agreement prior to the start of the school year. Agreement is found in the Annual Legal Notices.

MAKE-UP WORK Schoolwork missed because of legitimate absences should be made up within a period of time equal to that of the absence, unless extended time arrangements are made with the instructor. It is the responsibility of the student to arrange with his/her teachers for making up work missed. All work must be completed and turned in to receive a grade.

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Los Coyotes Middle School will accept payment by check for purchases made for P.E. uniforms, yearbooks, school related functions, etc. Checks returned for “Non-Sufficient Funds” or “Account Closed” reasons will be charged a “returned check fee” for each check returned.

CELL PHONES, MUSIC PLAYERS, AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Cell phones are permitted on campus, but must be turned off between 8:35 am and 3:00 pm, except for break and lunch. Cell phones or any other electronic device may not be used during instructional minutes, unless directed by the teacher. Cell phone use consists of (but is not limited to) talking, text messaging, playing games, checking the time, turning item on or off, or taking digital images. Failure to adhere to cell phone policy may involve confiscation of cell phone. Any electronic device turned into the office will be:

1. First Offense – log of incident, item returned to the student, with a warning. 2. Second Offense – log of incident, requires that a parent/guardian pick up the item. 3. Ongoing Offenses – log of incident, will result in progressive school discipline.

Headphones/Ear buds are to be put away during the school day, including break and lunch or they may be confiscated.

MEDICATION TAKEN AT SCHOOL

Students who must take prescription medication at school on a temporary or regular basis must provide: a written statement from the doctor detailing the method, amount, and time schedules for the medication to be taken, any Medication will not be administered until all requirements have been met.

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CARE OF SCHOOL PROPERTY Students are responsible for taking care of school property. Any expense incurred by the District in replacing or repairing school property which may have been lost, damaged, or destroyed by a student shall be paid by the pupil, his/her parents, or guardian.

ACADEMIC HONESTY POLICY

The well-being of the school community depends on each student’s accepting responsibility for his or her personal conduct in both social and academic endeavors. In this regard, students are expected to attend LCMS ready to learn and in their learning demonstrate the ability to discern right from wrong. A student’s moral awareness as it applies to the academic environment is foundational to his or her success at LCMS where the student must engage in an honest and integral pursuit of knowledge. Academic honesty depends on the student taking responsibility for producing work that is reflective of the student's best effort. Academic dishonesty is evidenced by cheating or plagiarizing and involves an attempt by a student to show possession of knowledge and skills he/she does not possess. The following actions are reflective of academic dishonesty and are subject to disciplinary action by teacher, school, and/or district. Some offenses may be criminal in nature and therefore prosecutable under local, state, or federal laws. • Using dishonest, deceptive or fraudulent means to obtain or attempt to obtain credit for academic work; • Using notes, aids, or another student’s assistance to complete a test, a project or other assignment in a way other than that expressly

permitted by the teacher. Unless otherwise directed by the teacher, students should accomplish all assignments individually; • Looking at another student’s test, answer sheet, or other materials; • Talking during a test. The teacher cannot be expected to determine the content of a private conversation between students; therefore,

all talking during tests is considered cheating; • Copying from or allowing another student to copy from a test, homework, or other course work—which is not intended to be

collaborative in nature; • Tampering with an instructor’s records of grades or scores; • Abusing the privilege the Internet access as stated in the NLMUSD Acceptable Use of Technology Policy for Use of the Internet; • Accessing, deleting, modifying, transferring, or receiving of computerized files without authorization of the teacher. Although a

student may authorize another student to copy or transfer electronic files, this action is considered cheating if effected without teacher permission;

• Plagiarizing materials: the taking of specific or general substance of another person’s work and offering it as one’s own work without giving credit to the original author. Plagiarizing encompasses omitting quotation marks for directly quoted material, omitting bibliographic references either in the text or on a source page appended at the end of the assignment, and/or paraphrasing an author without giving credit to that author for use of his or her ideas. Paraphrasing is the student’s uses of an author’s ideas by rewording and/or rearranging that author’s original text.

Student, Parent/Guardian, and Teacher Responsibilities: Students are expected to adhere to the principles of this policy in completing all school-related tests, quizzes, reports, homework, assignments, and other academic work both in class and out of class. Parents/guardians are expected to support the spirit and intent of this policy by reviewing the policy with their students and encouraging the students to practice academic honesty. Teachers are expected to promote the academic honesty policy through ongoing reference to and application of the Character Counts! Pillars, to make clear to students the fact that the principles of the policy will be strictly enforced and to act on and enforce appropriate consequences when a student is found to have violated the academic honesty policy. Students found to have been involved in any act of academic dishonesty may be subject to:

• A failing grade on related assignments • Removal from the class with no credit • Removal from academic honor organizations • Transfer to another school • Suspension and/or Expulsion • Other appropriate consequences

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SCHOOL ACTIVITIES (*All sports are coed unless otherwise noted*)

Centurion Honors Magnet (CHM) – is a multi-year, interdisciplinary, high school preparatory program. Students will participate in rigorous curricula meeting academic standards while engaging in a variety of cooperative and individual learning experiences. Students must be enrolled in 2 or more Honors-level classes to be considered involved. Centurion Medical & Forensics Magnet – This magnet pathway is designed for students to explore medical, forensic science, or first-responder career pathways. Beginning in the 6th Grade, this magnet program builds each year on investigative, technical, scientific, and physiological concepts using real-world scenarios and projects. Classes include Health, Prevention and Care of Injury/Sports Medicine, Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology, Introduction to Forensic Science, and Research Support. Good News Club - Your child is invited to join in for games, songs, Bible Stories, edible treats and fun. Parent permission slips will be needed for attendance. Ms. Thurman’s in Rm. 42 Tuesday’s after school.

Homework Club - The Homework Club is an opportunity for students to use the library resources, to work quietly on assignments or projects, and receive help from the advisor if necessary. Class day and time will be coming soon. Our Motto is Failure is not an option!!

Fencing - The Medieval Art of Fencing will be taught. Never tried fencing? All equipment will be provided. Club will meet from 6:00 – 8:00 pm with Mr. Vrsalovich in the MPR on Thursdays.

Medieval Arts & Sciences - Students will work on projects of a historical nature in preparation for the World Faire, like woodworking and textile art. Club will meet from 3:05 - 4:05 pm with Mr. Vrsalovich Rm. 70 on Tuesdays.

Academic Pentathlon – Times and locations will be announced for each grade level. PTSA - Reflections Contest, Red Ribbon Week, Fundraising, Giving Tree, Scholarships, Student & Staff Support Counseling & Community - Goals for Life, Tutoring, Community Sponsored Contests Career & College Week – College related spirit activities are organized for the week for all students. Local college representatives will present at college night for parents. AVID Club – AVID is a nationally recognized academic honors support program focusing on students in the academic middle and is designed to increase the number of students who enroll in 4-year colleges. AVID students are enrolled in challenging classes and are supported in an academic elective class. Ms. Contreras Rm. 22

FALL SPORTS

Football, Volleyball, Cheerleading, Color Guard

WINTER SPORTS Soccer, Basketball (Boys & Girls), Cheerleading, Color Guard

SPRING SPORTS

Softball (Boys & Girls), Annual Track Meet (Boys & Girls), Cheerleading, Color Guard Being a student-athlete and belonging to one of our LCMS sports teams is a privilege and NOT a requirement! At LCMS, academic success and proper citizenship are our top priorities. Therefore, if a student performs or behaves in a way that jeopardizes either of those (before, during, or after school), LCMS will provide progressive discipline as needed. Disciplinary actions could include warnings, loss of playing time, and/or removal from the team. All students must meet the academic eligibility (2.0 GPA or higher) outlined in NLMUSD policy in order to participate.

*Please Note: Participation in some of these activities may require individual student funding.

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FRONT & BACK PARKING LOTS – DROP OFF HELP US HELP YOU!

To keep your children safe, please follow the guidelines below. Thank you.

• Please remember that as you enter and exit the parking lots, many other students may be around you. The speed limit is 5 mph.

• If your child walks to school or is dropped off outside of the parking lot, please remind them to use the sidewalks whenever possible. Many students walk through our parking lots without looking or paying attention to the traffic.

• Please follow directions provided by campus security and adult volunteers when dropping off or picking up a student. FRONT LOT – Before School and After School Procedures

• The RIGHT LANE is the drop off and pick up lane. Please drive forward as far as you can go and stay to the right. As soon as your child has left or entered the car, please move carefully into the left lane.

• The LEFT LANE is for entering and leaving the parking lot ONLY. Please do not stop in the left lane and allow children to leave or enter from your car.

• Please remind students to be ready to exit your car as you drive up so the time you need to let them out is as short as possible. Take care of lunch money, pick up information, etc., prior to driving into the parking lot.

• Whenever possible, students should exit on the right side of the car. If this is not possible for some reason, have your child cross over in front of your car not in back of your car. BACK LOT – After School Student Pick up Procedures

• The WEST parking lot gate is to be used for entrance only. The EAST parking lot gate is for exit only.

REMINDER!

1. AnystudentwhoisridingabiketoschoolMUSTWEARAHELMET.Pleasereviewbikesafetyruleswithyourchild.

2. WeareaclosedcampusandtheRosecransgateisclosedfrom9:00am–2:00pmdaily.

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BELL SCHEDULES 2016-2017

Regular Daily Schedule

M, T, TH, F

Early Release Schedule

Wednesday

Grade 6 – 8 Period 1 8:35 – 9:17 Period 2 9:22 – 10:02

NUTRITION 10:02 – 10:19 Period 3 10:22 – 11:02 Period 4 11:07 – 11:47 LUNCH 11:47 – 12:17 Period 5 12:20 – 1:00 Period 6 1:05 – 1:45

Minimum Day Schedule

Grade 6 – 8

Period 1 8:35 – 9:14 Period 2 9:19 – 9:55

NUTRITION 9:55 – 10:05 Period 3 10:08 – 10:44 Period 4 10:49 – 11:25 LUNCH 11:25 – 11:55 Period 5 11:58 – 12:34

Period 6 12:39 – 1:15

GRADE 6 – 8 Period 1 8:35 – 9:32 Period 2 9:37 – 10:29

NUTRITION 10:29 – 10:46 Period 3 10:49 – 11:41 Period 4 11:46 – 12:38 LUNCH 12:38 – 1:08 Period 5 1:11 – 2:03 Period 6 2:08 – 3:00

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LCMS Promise Driven to Succeed

2016-2017 At this school, we…

• Work hard o In the classroom as scholars. o On the athletic field as student-athletes.

• Model the 6 Character Counts! Pillars o By being trustworthy and honest. o By being respectful to others. o By being responsible in and out of the classroom. o By being fair to those around us. o By caring for those around us. o By being good citizens.

• Keep our promises o By finishing what we start. o By doing what we say we will do.

• Build relationships o By building capacity in those around us. o By treating others they way we want to be treated.

• Show gratitude o By giving back to our school and community.

• Have fun! At LCMS, we believe that everybody should enjoy our school equally, and feel safe, secure, and accepted regardless of color, race, gender, popularity, athletic ability, intelligence, religion, or nationality.

• We agree to value students’ differences and treat others with respect. • We agree to not become involved in bullying incidents or be a bully. • We agree to be aware of the school’s policies and support system with regard to bullying. • We agree to report honestly and immediately all incidents of bullying to a staff member or administrator. • We agree to support students who have been or are subjected to bullying. • We agree to talk to students, teachers, and parents about concerns and issues regarding bullying. • We agree to do our best to stamp out bullying at LCMS.

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CHARACTER COUNTS AT LCMS! Adapted from What Parents Can Do Handbook

LCMS recognizes the importance of developing strong character within our students and implements CHARACTER COUNTS (a national character development program). It is our goal to help our students understand the role they each play in helping to create a positive school environment. What is character and how is it formed? Character is who we really are. It’s what we do when no one is looking. It’s the accumulation of thoughts, values, words, and actions. These become the habits that comprise our character. That character determines our destiny. A person of character thinks right and does right according to core universal values that define the qualities of a good person: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. The CHARACTER COUNTS program refers to these as the Six Pillars of Character. Whatever we call them, though, our role as character developers is to guide young people’s thoughts, words, actions, and habits toward these values, which all people share, regardless of other differences. Don’t be intimidated by the changes taking place in your 11 to 13 year old and by the increasing importance of peer influence. The family is the primary character-building force in a child’s life, and character education is a major family obligation. It’s a parent’s job to help kids engage the world with as much trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship as possible. Even when physical, emotional, and social changes sometimes mean a temporary self-focus for middle schoolers, the challenge of parenting for character becomes more manageable by taking a simple approach – and by involving the full community in sending a common message about the standards of good character. Identify and reflect on the major influences on your child’s character:

• Friends • Life experiences • Stories heard • Books read • Conversations heard • People admired • People who spend time with your child • TV programs and movies watched • Music listened to • Games played • Sports played and watched • Goals and expectations

Please join us and help make Los Coyotes Middle School a place where character truly does count!

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Los Coyotes Middle School

Scholastic Recognition

Academic Awards Principal’s Honor Roll: 3.5 – 4.0 GPA Centurion Honor Roll: 3.0 – 3.49 GPA *Awarded each trimester.

National Junior Honor Society (8th Grade Only) Membership in NJHS requires: • A GPA of 3.5 in the 7th grade all 3 Trimesters • No U’s in citizenship. • Additional character, scholarship, leadership, service and citizenship

requirements.

Presidential Academic Achievement Award • Must maintain a 3.5 – 4.0 GPA for the entire school

year. • Must score Level 4 in both Math & ELA in the SBAC

(Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium) Tests.

*Awarded at the end of the year awards ceremony.

Outstanding Student in a Subject Area Awarded to a student who excels in a subject area (AVID, Drama, English Language Arts, Math, Music , Physical Educat ion, Scholar Athlete , Science, Social Studies, Spanish). In addition, the top male and female student for all core subjects in each grade will be recognized at the end of the year awards ceremony.

*Awarded each trimester and at the end of the year awards ceremony.

Outstanding Citizenship Distinguished Effort Awarded to a student who has received all “O’s” in citizenship in all their classes. *Awarded each trimester and at the end of the year awards ceremony.

Awarded to a student who shows exceptional academic growth.

*Awarded each trimester and at the end of the year awards ceremony.

Perfect Attendance Centurion of the Month Awarded to a student i s at school every day fo r the entire day (8:35 A.M. – 3:00 P.M. on M-T-TH-F & 8:35 A.M. – 1:45 P.M. on W) for the whole school year without any tardies. *Awarded at the end of the year awards ceremony.

Awarded to the student who best displays our CHARACTER COUNTS values during the month by each teacher. Monthly winners are invited to a special pancake breakfast in their honor. *Awarded each month and recognized at the end of the year awards ceremony.

Centurion Honors Magnet Awards (Awarded to students enrolled in CHM only)

Students must be enrolled in 2 or more Honors Courses for entire school year Creativity, Action, & Service Hours Award (CAS) CHM Academic Awards

Awarded to students who successfully completed 10 hours of work in each category, for a total of 30 hours throughout the school year. These students show a commitment to developing as a well-rounded, contributing member of society.

Centurion Highest Honors: 4.2 & above G.P.A. Centurion High Honors: 4.0 - 4.19 G.P.A. CHM Special Recognition: 3.5 - 3.9 G.P.A.

*Awarded each trimester and at the end of the year awards ceremony.

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PROMOTION CRITERIA

This contract must be signed by the eighth grade student and parent/guardian and returned to the student’s homeroom teacher by Friday, September 9, 2016. It will be kept on file in the school office. We know that participation in the 8th grade Promotional Ceremony is an earned privilege, not a right. We have read the rules for participation in the 8th grade Promotion Ceremony and understand that this criteria is in place. Specifically, in order to participate in the ceremony, students have: Grades 2.0 Cumulative GPA / “C” average (for the 8th Grade year only) Course Failures No more than 1 “F” per subject area class during all 3 trimesters Citizenship No more than 3 out-of-school suspensions (separate incidences) Attendance No more than “10” period tardies; No more than “5” unexcused absences (truancy or parent violation), which includes partial

day unexcused absences Pay all outstanding fees and fines at least 3 days prior to the Promotion event.

Appeal Process

If a student is ineligible for the Promotion activity, an appeal process will be in place. All appeals will be made to a committee that will be chosen by the school site administration. All decisions from the appeal panel will be final 1. All appeals must be submitted, in writing, to the student’s site administrator, by June 14, 2016. Any appeals submitted after this date will be

considered on a case-by-case basis. All requirements will be in effect until the last day of school. 2. The appeal letter must clearly state all circumstances/ reasons specific to the reasons for ineligibility to participate in the event. 3. The appeal panel will review all written appeals. After the written appeal has been reviewed, a response will be forwarded to the student in writing; no verbal responses will be delivered during the appeal process. If the appeal is granted, the student will be allowed to participate in the promotional ceremony. If denied, the student will not participate in the ceremony. Only the actual participation in the promotion ceremony will be denied. All students, whether or not they meet the requirements for the promotion activity will be promoted to high school, unless procedures for retention are in place. Print Student’s Name Here: Student’s Signature Date Parent/Guardian Signature Date SUPPORT FOR ENSURING SUCCESS - In order to provide middle school students with the opportunity to meet the Promotion activity requirements, middle schools will have the following systems/ programs in place beginning in the sixth grade to: A. Celebrate and reinforce student achievement B. Identify at-risk students early and enroll in appropriate intervention C. Provide academic intervention programs during the school day D. Provide an attendance recovery program E. Provide alternative instructional settings F. Ensure frequent and consistent school to home communication G. Initiate clubs and/or activities to motivate students to stay in school

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