student handbook and planner · 2012-08-07 · wlms — 2 west lee middle school student-parent...
TRANSCRIPT
WLMS — 1
Student Handbook and Planner
2011– 2012
Principal: Mr. Melvin Marshall (8th
Grade Admin.)
Assistant Principals:
Ms. Monika Kerner (7th
Grade Admin.)
Ms. Delores Caviness (6th
Grade Admin.)
3301 Wicker Street
Sanford, NC 27330
Telephone: (919) 775-7351
Fax #: (919) 776-3694 http://www.lee.wlm.schoolfusion.us
A complete and updated version of all Lee County School’s policies and regulations may be obtained
online at www.lee.k12.nc.us , at the Lee County Schools Central Office at 106 Gordon St., Sanford,
NC and at our own WLMS website above.
Name
Address
City/Town
State Zip Code
Home Phone Cell Phone
Transportation: Walk Car Bus #:
Locker #: Student ID#:
WLMS — 2
West Lee Middle School Student-Parent Handbook and Planner
2011-2012
Greetings to Parents and Students:
Welcome to a new school year! As your principal I am excited about the great opportunities that lay ahead
for us here at West Lee Middle School for the 2011-2012 school year.
Our theme at West Lee Middle School will continue to be “A Community of Learners-A Community of
Excellence.” But we are also emphasizing our school as a place “Where Student Failure Is NOT an
Option!!!” I invite you to join with us to provide support for the West Lee students and staff. With your
support, I believe we will have an excellent learning environment for our students which will sustain and
nourish the level of excellence we desire for our school community. The pages that follow describe the
motto, mission, and vision for West Lee Middle School. We believe these ideals are important for a
school’s success.
This handbook addresses many of the things one must know to have a fulfilling experience here at West
Lee. I ask that parents and students review the entire handbook together. If these guidelines are followed,
students, parents and staff will have a greater opportunity for success.
We must continually work toward maintaining a safe and orderly environment. If you have information
about anything that poses a danger to anyone at West Lee, please call me (919-775-7351) or one of the
assistant principals, a teacher, the School Resource Officer, or Lee County Schools’ Crime Hotline: 776-
7541, ext. 259.
I believe learning should be an exciting, interesting, and fun part of life. We must work together to help
our children value the importance of learning. If we can help students develop an appreciation for learning,
we can help our students move successfully toward a richer and fuller life.
I look forward to having a wonderful year together.
Sincerely,
Melvin Marshall
Principal
¿En Español?
Tenomos Manuales en español. Por favor solicitelos en la oficina o al maestro de su niño.
Contents and verification
This planner-handbook is a valuable item to help students succeed at West Lee. It serves as a
planner, a student-parent handbook, a calendar, and a communication vehicle between teachers and parents.
A number of additional items are included for parent/student information. You will be responsible for items
in the handbook and these additional important items, so please check to ensure you have all of them. Let
your child’s teacher know immediately if you are missing something.
• Lee County Schools' Code of Student Conduct (LCSCSC). This is considered part of this handbook.
• Free and Reduced Lunch information and application
• Lunch prepayment schedule and information
• Student insurance information
Using the Planner... Parents, to successfully monitor your child’s middle school experience:
Have child write down all assignments.
Exchange notes with teacher.
Have child record all grades.
Have child record all disciplinary incidents.
WLMS — 3
School Calendar
2011-2012
August 25 First Day for Students March 22 3rd
Quarter Ends
September 5 Labor Day Holiday
(No school)
March 23
Teacher Workday
(No School)
October 11 Early Dismissal April 3 Report Cards Go Home
October 27 1st Quarter Ends April 6 through
April 13
Spring Break
(No School)
November 8
Teacher Workday
(No School)
May 8 Teacher Workday
(No School)
November 10 Report Cards Go Home May 28 Memorial Day Holiday
(No School)
November 11 Veteran’s Day Holiday
(No school)
June 8 Last Day for Students
November 23-
25
Thanksgiving Holiday
(No School)
Southern Lee Graduation June 7
Dec. 20 Early Dismissal Lee Co. HS Graduation June 8
Dec. 21 through
January 2
Christmas Vacation
(No school)
For Information on Inclement Weather resulting in School
Closings or Delays:
WFJA Radio 105.5 FM WRAL TV Channel 5
WWGP Radio 1050 AM WBF TV Channel 46
WRAL Radio 101.5 FM WTVD TV Channel 11
WRDU Radio 106.1 FM WNCN TV Channel 17
WQDR Radio 94.7 FM
WLHC Radio 103.1 FM
Lee Co. Schools Website: www.lee.k12.nc.us
Call The Lee Co. Schools Central Office @ (919) 774-6226
January 3 Students Return
January 13 2nd
Quarter Ends
January 16 Martin Luther King
Holiday (No School)
January 17 Teacher Workday
(No School)
January 27 Report Cards Go Home
February 20
Teacher Workday
(No School)
Clock Schedule
7:15am Student Arrival Begins
7:35am
7:37am
Release Gym Students to Class
Release Cafeteria/Bus Students to
Class
7:40am Tardy Bell (All students in class)
7:40-2:40 Classes in Session*
2:38
2:40
Dismiss Car Riders and Walkers
Dismiss Bus Riders & ASD Students
3:00 All Students should be off Campus
Unless for Athletic or Club Activity
*20 min. between 1st & 2
nd Block for Rosetta Stone/TAA/Grade Level Remediation, etc.
WLMS — 4
ACADEMIC INFORMATION
Parental Support We Strongly Encourage Parents to “Team-Up”
with Teachers & Administrators in working
together to make this year a successful one by
doing the following:
1. Have High Expectations for your child.
Expect your child to do all of the assigned
work and to follow the school’s instructions.
2. Model the educational values you wish
your child to have. Children tend to do as
you do more than do as you say. Have
discussions with them about what they are
learning. Children like to talk with their
parents.
3. Know about your child's classes,
programs, homework patterns, and testing
schedule. Give your child your attention and
support.
4. Communicate with your child's teachers.
5. Talk with your child about school. If there
are any problems call us so we can address
them promptly.
6. Make sure we can contact you with your
correct email address, home, cell, and work
phone number.
7. Make sure your child attends school
regularly and gets to class on time.
8. Keep your child in school by discouraging
them from leaving school because of minor
health problems. Try to schedule
appointments after school hours or at a time
when students will miss as little school as
possible.
9. Attend school functions such as Open-
House night, PTSO meetings, athletic
events, plays, programs, and concerts.
10. Go through this handbook with your
child so both of you are familiar with
procedures and policies of the school.
11. Explain and support school discipline so
that your child understands that actions
taken are in his/her best interest.
12. Read the school calendar in this handbook
and be aware of testing dates, dates that
quarters begin and end, report card dates,
and other significant events.
Parent Conferences We encourage you to have conferences with
your child's teachers. Most conferences should
be set up before school or immediately after
school; however, with proper notice you will be
able to schedule conferences during teacher
planning periods. Always enter through the front
office and get a visitor’s pass. Be prepared to
show photo identification.
Progress Reports Each grading period, teachers will issue
students individual classroom progress reports
on or about the following dates:
September 22, 2011
December 1, 2011
February 22, 2012
May 3, 2012
Homework Assignments Homework gives you practice with skills
and prepares you for activities in class. People
who do homework learn more and make good
grades. You can expect homework assignments
any night, including weekends. You are
responsible for homework you missed due to an
absence. See "Make-Up Work" in this handbook.
Honor Rolls The Honor Roll: all A's and B's on your
report card quarter grades.
The Principal's List: all A's.
WLMS Honors Plus Club: All A’s & B’s
with Teacher Recommendations & No Discipline
Referrals
Grades and Report Cards Grades symbolize what you have learned.
You will receive a report card at the end of each
of the four nine-week Quarters. A copy must be
signed by your parent or guardian and returned
to the teacher. We use these numbers to report
grades.
93-100 A Outstanding work
85-92 B Good work
77-84 C Average work
70-76 D Below average work
69 or lower F Failing grade
WLMS — 5
If you have been absent and you have
not had the time allowed to make up all of your
work, you may get a grade of "INC"
(incomplete) on your report card. You still need
to make up that work. If you do not, the work not
completed will be graded zero (0) and averaged
in with other work for the nine weeks. (See also
"Make-Up Work" in this handbook)
Poor grades (F’s and D’s) on a report card
are sufficient alerts to a possible retention in that
grade. If your child is making poor grades,
contact teachers immediately to find out what the
student needs to do to correct this.
Promotion and Retention
Requirements The school principal shall have authority to
grade and classify students. A student should
repeat a grade when repetition is likely to benefit
the child in acquiring minimum skills or
competencies. [G.S. 115C-288(a)]
To be considered for promotion to the next
grade level, students must show adequate
progress in various educational standards. Those
standards must provide multiple criteria for
assessing the student's readiness, such as
standardized tests, grades, a portfolio or
anthology of the student’s work and, when
appropriate, consideration of accepted standards
for assessing developmental growth. Principals
will ensure that the standards are used by
teachers and school administrators in assessing
each student's readiness to progress to the next
level of study. Principals have the authority to
promote and to retain students based upon the
standards set by the board and the State Board of
Education. Students may be retained no more
than once in grades K-2, 3-5 or 6-8 and no more
than twice in grades K-8.
Waivers may be granted for students exempted
under IEP or ESL guidelines, or for students for
whom the teacher and parent can demonstrate
sufficient evidence that the student has indeed
been consistently working at grade level in the
classroom, based upon the North Carolina
Standard Course of Study.
See also “Grades and Report Cards.”
Textbooks The Lee County Board of Education
purchases textbooks and loans them to students.
Take care of them since they are somebody else's
property and must be used for five years. You
are responsible for the books issued to you. If
your books are lost or damaged beyond the
minor, normal wear and tear, you will be charged
a damage fee. If you lose your book, report it to
the teacher. If you can't find your book after a
few days you will need to pay your teacher for
that one so you can be issued another. If you
later find the book, we can refund your money at
the end of the quarter.
In some classes you may not be issued a
textbook. This is because much of what you will
need to succeed in that class will not come from
the book, but from the experiences you have in
that class. If you need a book to study, catch up
on some work, or for review and understanding,
let your teacher know. You can arrange to take
these books home while you need them.
Athletic Participation The Lee County Board of Education, West
Lee Middle School, and the North Carolina High
School Athletic Association govern student
participation in extra-curricular or co-curricular
activities. Currently, 6th graders are not eligible
to participate in interscholastic athletic programs.
Minimal Requirements for Participation
1. Must pass 3 out of 4 required core courses
in the previous school semester.
2. Must pass at least one-half of non-core
classes in previous semester.
3. Must be in attendance at least 85% of the
previous semester.
4. May not be 15 on or before October 16.
5. Provide a copy of appropriate physical exam
before they can try out. The physical is
good for one full year.
6. Must provide proof of medical insurance or
completed waiver form. Primary cost of
treating injuries is the responsibility of the
parent.
7. Inappropriate behavior may result in
dismissal from a team.
Seasons:
Fall: Football, Boys Soccer, Volleyball,
Cheerleading
Winter: Girls & Boys Basketball,
Cheerleading
Spring: Baseball, Softball, Girls Soccer,
Golf, Cheerleading tryouts.
(Physicals are required to participate in tryouts)
Athletic participation requires high levels of
commitment and responsibility. Athletes are
WLMS — 6
responsible for bringing necessary equipment on
appropriate days. Athletic material will not be
delivered to a student during the school day.
Cancelled practices will be posted on the
Athletics board in the cafeteria by lunch, if
cancelled after lunch the coach will be
responsible for student supervision after school.
Athletes are responsible for arranging rides
to and from West Lee for games and practices as
needed. Athletes need to always wait for rides at
area supervised by coach and not be at other
points on campus.
Students may be suspended or dismissed from
the team if responsibilities and expectations are
not met.
ATTENDANCE INFORMATION
Attendance and Absences School attendance in North Carolina is a legal matter. The state recognizes the following three types of
absences: Lawful, Unlawful, and Suspension.
Absence Type Reasons Comments and consequences
Lawful:
code 1
Illness, quarantine, death in immediate family,
medical or dental appointment, court, religious
observance, absences of an educational nature
(requires prior approval of the attendance Asst.
Principal), emergency circumstances (requires
approval of attendance Asst. Principal)
Excused absence: Work is expected to be made up.
Students will receive full credit for this work if done
within the guidelines. (See "Makeup Work" in next
section.)
Unlawful:
code 2
Absences for any reason other than those defined
for Lawful or Suspension are considered
unlawful.
Unexcused: Work may not be made up for credit.
Students receive zeros for work due on days missed.
Suspension:
code 3
Administered and determined by the Principal's
office.
Excused absence: Work is expected to be made up for
full credit according to guidelines. (See "Makeup Work"
in next section.)
Students must deliver a note to their teacher within three (3) days of an absence(s), and signed by a
parent or legal guardian. If you do not bring a note within three (3) days you must be counted unlawfully
absent.
Family trips fall into the category of “absences of an educational nature” and require prior approval
to be counted as lawful absences. The grade level assistant principal has application forms, which must be
completed prior to the absence. Once all conditions on the application are completed, the absence will be
coded “lawful.” See the front office receptionist for an application.
The Lee County Board of Education requires 164 days of attendance in all classes in all grades in order
for a student to be eligible for promotion. Absences of all types count as days not in attendance. Lawful
absences are not an exception to this rule. Excessive "tardies" and "checkouts" may also cause one not to
meet this requirement. Extremely unusual circumstances impacting this requirement need to be addressed
through the principal at that time.
Parents of students who accumulate unlawful absences will receive letters informing them they may be
prosecuted according to the North Carolina Compulsory Attendance Law.
Make-Up Work Following an excused absence, you will
receive full credit if you make up work within
the time allowed (the length of the absence plus
one day). You will never have to make up a test
on the day you return.
Late Arrival to School by Car If you arrive to school after the tardy bell,
you must go to the office and get an admit slip
before reporting to class. Students who are
chronically tardy to school will be required to
have parents come into the office and sign them
in before they may enter class. Excessive
WLMS — 7
unexcused tardiness may result in ASD, ISS or
OSS.
Checking-Out Early You must check out through the office and
be picked up by your parents, legal guardian, or
we must have in writing a note from the parent
or guardian specifying who will be signing the
student out. Whoever checks you out must come
in and sign you out (persons other than the
parent or guardian must show proper
identification) along with written authorization
from parent/guardian. If you know in advance
that you will be leaving school early you should
bring a written note stating the reason. Students
who chronically miss class due to early check
outs will be treated the same as “tardies.” Any
student who signs out of school prior to 11:00am
will be counted absent for that school day.
Withdrawals Students withdrawing from West Lee
Middle School must secure an official form from
the front office at least 24 hours prior to
withdrawing from our school. The student must
get all teachers, library personnel, and offices to
sign that all accounts are cleared.
SUPPORT SERVICES
School Counseling Services Counseling services are available to all
students during the school day. You can see a
counselor either individually or in small groups
to talk about things like relationships, friendship,
controlling your temper, making better grades,
understanding your family, and much more. A
counselor will help you sort out issues of
concern. You can also count on your counselor
to keep your concerns a secret.
There are several ways you can make an
appointment to see your counselor. Use your
laptop to email us, ask your teacher to contact us,
or fill out a counselor request form and slide it
under our door. We will make every effort to see
you as soon as possible, but please be aware that
if it is not an emergency, you may have to wait a
day or two. We may also call you in to talk if a
teacher, parent, or administrator has referred you
to us.
Counselors also serve parents. Call us
if you have any concerns about your child.
We’ll be happy to assist you in any way we can.
School Nurse Services of a school nurse are available on
scheduled days during week. If you need to see
the nurse, contact one of your teachers or the
front office.
Medication Students are prohibited from possessing or
using prescription or over-the-counter drugs or
medicine on school property or at school
functions except as specified below.
The school cannot purchase, provide, or
otherwise secure medicines.
Every effort should be made to schedule
medications during hours away from school. In
the situations where medication—prescription or
non-prescription—must be administered at
school, the following procedures must be
followed:
Short-Term Medication—(antibiotic for an
infection, pain medicine after an accident, etc.) If
medication is required for a short time the doctor
can write an official request for the child to take
medication at school.
Long-Term Medication—(Ritalin, asthma
medication, Tylenol as needed for chronic
headaches, etc.) If long-term medication is
required, the physician must complete a "Request
for Medicine To Be Given During School Hours"
form (available at school) before school
personnel can give medication.
All medicine must be brought to the school
in the appropriately labeled bottles or containers.
Students should bring medication and notes to
the front office at the beginning of the school
day.
Medicine or drugs not handled in
accordance with this policy are considered illicit
drugs for school disciplinary purposes.
School Insurance If a child is injured at school, parents have
the primary responsibility for the cost of medical
treatment that may be necessary. The Lee
County Board of Education has approved certain
insurance arrangements to supplement parent
resources.
WLMS — 8
Lee County Schools provides limited
“accident” school insurance for every child. The
parents’ insurance is the “primary,” these
overages are secondary.
Voluntary student insurance is offered at a
very modest cost for those who wish to purchase
it. Read the policy carefully to determine if it
meets your needs. Direct mail envelopes will be
provided with the application for parents wishing
to purchase it.
All athletes are covered under an All Athletic
Plan. Field trips are insured by the Voluntary
Student Insurance provider at no expense to the
school system.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Morning Arrival Early bus students enter the gym through the
back door from the bus parking lot.
Car riders and walkers from the east (town)
should use the Winterlocken Drive and enter the
building through the end door of the exploratory
wing. Car riders and walkers from the west
should use the "flagpole" drive and enter the
building through the front lobby doors.
Walkers & Bike Riders use crosswalk.
Campus Supervision begins at 7:15 A.M.
For safety reasons, students are not to arrive
on campus before this time.
Breakfast students may go directly to the
cafeteria once being acknowledged by duty
teacher.
Students entering the building after the tardy
bell must use the front entrance…Excessive
tardiness for sickness may require a doctor’s note
to be excused.
After School Dismissal Students should leave the building after 2:38
dismissal as soon as possible and go to either the
bus parking lot or one of the lobby exits. No
student should be in the building after 3:00
without signed Agenda from or being
accompanied by a staff member. Car riders need
to wait at one of the supervised exits and be
picked up no later than 3:00 pm. Do not leave
campus and return. (see below)
Walkers, use crosswalks the same as in the
mornings.
After School Events Students wishing to attend any kind of
events after school need to understand
instructions for that particular event. In no case
should the students be wandering around the
campus or building unsupervised.
Events beginning immediately or shortly
after school (FIP, club meetings, practices,
ball games, makeup work): go directly to the
announced, designated area.
Events beginning after 4:00 (dances,
programs, contests): go home and come
back at appropriate time.
Planned activities associated with school
groups or teams need to be approved by the
principal and be conducted in accordance with
Lee County School Board Policy, even if they
occur off school grounds, beyond school hours,
or are initiated by non-school personnel.
Leaving campus and returning to school is
forbidden unless accompanied by your parents.
Students attending athletic events are
expected to be there to watch the athletic event.
Certainly there is room for socialization, but this
does not mean congregating in unsupervised
areas. You may be asked to remain at a sporting
event and watch the game or simply leave.
School rules governing dress are still in
effect.
Rides are expected to pick students up at the
end of the event. Students without rides at proper
time will not be allowed to attend after school
events. Rides for games should be prepared to
pick up by 6:00pm; Boy’s basketball at 6:45.
Inclement Weather Listen to local radio and television stations
for information when weather may be too bad for
school. Do not call the school; listen to your
radio or television station, or check the Lee
County Schools’ website (www.lee.k12.nc.us)
Student Grooming and Dress The Lee County School Board has adopted a
Student Dress and Appearance Policy. (Policy
Code 4301) Individual Schools are given the
discretion to specify additional examples of dress
or appearance that are appropriate under the
policy.
WLMS — 9
See Lee County Schools Code of Conduct
for consequences. The dress code is in effect for
all school related events and on all school
property. In all cases, the student will be
required to correct the situation before being
allowed to return to class.
The following are inappropriate and not
permitted:
Sagging pants and oversized clothing. Pants
are to be worn at or above the waist. All
male students must keep shirts tucked.
Sunglasses and head coverings of any kind are
not to be worn inside the buildings.
Clothing and accessories which can be
perceived as weapons (including
chains/spikes).
Clothing and attire with any symbols or styles
frequently associated with intimidation,
violence, or violent groups. (color bandanas,
towels or “dew-rags”)
Clothing and items with messages or
illustrations which are lewd, derogatory,
indecent, vulgar or advertising any product
or service not permitted by law to minors
such as drugs, illegal substances, tobacco
and alcohol.
Clothing, shorts, dresses and skirts which are
excessively tight or shorter than mid-thigh.
All shorts, skirts, dresses must fall at or
below the longest fingertip (Leggings or
other tight spandex material worn by girls
must be covered by a long shirt, shorts or
skirt that meet the finger-tip rule).
Clothing with excessive holes, see-through
materials, strapless, tank and spaghetti tops.
Clothing exposing cleavage, midriff and
undergarment
Clothing worn inappropriately such as
unbuckled belts, inside out or backward,
unfastened, pants and skirts not at waistline,
rolled-up pants and shoes not tied or
secured.
Face paint is not allowed unless it is related to
school activities or events.
School Safety A school plan exists for a variety of
emergency conditions. Listen to announcements
and instructions from your teachers. We will
conduct drills throughout the year. Students are
expected to respond swiftly, safely, orderly, and
quietly. Know the route to the nearest exit from
any room in which you have a class.
Misbehavior during an emergency drill is
dangerous and will not be tolerated. Students
violating a rule during any emergency drill will
receive a more severe consequence level than
would normally occur.
If you see anything suspicious, report it to a
teacher or principal immediately.
Video cameras survey the campus and
record 24 hours a day. All students and other
persons entering the building or campus are
subject to random metal detector searches.
Lockers Lockers are school property. Keep in mind
that school authorities have the right to open,
search, and remove any harmful or unauthorized
items. Random locker searches may be
conducted during the school year.
Articles seized during the search of lockers
may be retained and used as evidence in
disciplinary proceedings by school officials, or
law enforcement officials.
1. Homeroom teachers may assign you a locker
and issue you a school lock.
2. You are only allowed to use issued school
locks.
3. You must keep up with this lock and turn it
in at the end of the year. Do not share
combinations with anyone.
4. Do not dangle the lock from the holes in the
inside of the door. It will jam your locker
door closed!
5. Keep locker locked at all times.
6. Keep locker clean. Do not write, mark, or
place stickers or tape in or on your locker.
7. Do not go into someone else's locker. Do not
share your lock or locker with anyone.
You are responsible for and must pay for any
damages or loss of the lock/locker at the end of
the year.
Lost and Found If you find personal belongings on school
grounds, turn them in to a teacher or other school
employee. If you are missing personal items,
check the lost & found cage in the cafeteria
before or after school and during lunch. Any
item still remaining in Lost & Found not claimed
after at least 30 school days will be subject to
donation to the PTSO Thrift Store or disposed.
Student School Phone & Cell Use Students are to use school phones in
classrooms only with teacher permission and
WLMS — 10
supervision. If you are sick, you may only be
allowed to use the front office phones with your
teacher’s consent. Calls should be brief and
restricted to the purpose of the call. Cell phones
are now allowed on campus, but they must be
turned off and put away upon entering the school
building. Any student using a cell phone for
talking or texting or any other reason inside the
school will have their phone confiscated* and
subject to administrative discipline (*see pg. 13).
Tardies, Delivering Messages to
Students and Other Interruptions We strive to minimize the number of
interruptions to the instructional program.
Students may receive After School Detention
&/or In-School Suspension for excessive
unexcused tardiness. Students should be on time
and should bring to school all items and
information they will need. Parents, please do
not depend on calling your child at school to
routinely deliver things like messages, athletic
equipment, class work, and reminders.
Transportation changes WILL NOT be taken
over the phone – all such requests must be
made in writing. These can usually be handled
at home, and when excessive, they interfere with
your child's learning at school as well as the
development of responsibility. We will deliver
emergency messages only.
We will not allow delivery of flowers,
balloons, birthday presents, outside fast foods,
etc. during the school day. These need to be
handled at home.
Preventing Thefts Do not bring large amounts of money or
personal items of great monetary value to school
(Unless they are for after school activities; if so,
those items must remain in student lockers
during the school day). You, not the school, are
responsible for your personal property.
School Dances West Lee may sponsor at least one dance
each year. Dances are well supervised by
teachers & administrators. Students attending
dances should follow these rules:
1. Good conduct must be shown at all
times. School rules will be strictly
enforced.
2. No passes outside.
3. School Rules & Dress Code still applies
4. Dances are held for the students at West
Lee only. An outside student may be
invited (1 per student-No guest 16 or
older will be permitted to attend) from
another middle school in the district, but
their name must be submitted to the
main office at least 24 hours prior to the
dance for principal approval.
5. If your invited guest is approved, they
must arrive with you before being
permitted to enter into the dance.
6. Have your ride pick you up
immediately after the dance (times,
based on grade level, will be printed on
the ticket). You will not be allowed to
buy tickets for future dances if your ride
does not pick you up on time.
7. You may not attend a dance if:
• you have been suspended out of school
during the current or previous grading
quarter.
• you have been assigned to ASD/ISS
two or more times since the previous
dance
• you owe the school money.
• you are currently on any type of Out-of-
School suspension
Visitors on Campus We encourage parents & legal guardians to
visit the school. You can participate in special
activities, volunteer to help in classrooms,
proctor tests, or just simply come by to see what
your child experiences in school. Report to the
front office, show identification, sign in, and get
an identification badge. You must sign out upon
leaving campus and return your identification
badge.
No one will be allowed on campus that in
any way disrupts the educational process. We do
not call students out of class to visit with family
members or friends except in extreme
emergencies. Visitors who come on campus
without first reporting to the office to receive a
proper identification badge will be charged with
trespassing. No one under 18 years of age or
currently a student in another school in the
district will be allowed to simply come onto
campus to visit students or staff.
WLMS — 11
1:1 Student Laptop Program
The focus of learning with laptops at West Lee
Middle School is to prepare students for their
future, a world of digital technology and
information. Excellence in education requires
that technology is seamlessly integrated
throughout the educational program. Increasing
access to technology is essential for that future,
and the learning tool of these students is the
laptop computer. The individual use of a laptop
is a way to empower students to learn at their full
potential and to prepare them for the real world
of college and the workplace. Laptops encourage
students to solve problems and think critically by
stimulating analytical thinking.
As we have during the last school year,
all students will have access to a laptop computer
in each of their core classes. During Exploratory
classes, students may have access to desktop
computers in one of our school’s computer labs
on campus.
This guideline is provided to make all
users aware of the responsibilities associated
with efficient, ethical, and lawful use of
technology resources. If a person violates any of
the User Terms and Conditions named in this
guideline, privileges may be terminated, access
to the school district technology resources may
be denied, and the appropriate disciplinary
action shall be applied.
Prohibited technology resource activities include,
but are not limited to the following Computer
(Laptop) Violations:
Sending, accessing, uploading,
downloading, or distributing offensive,
profane, threatening, harassing,
pornographic, obscene, or sexually
explicit materials.
Threats and/or cyber bullying of any
kind
Using a computer to plan a fight, cause
harm or commit a crime
Gang related content
Images of weapons
Videoing or taping on school property
when not requested as part of a school
assignment
Gaming
Cheating
Logging into a computer/application
using a stolen login
Downloading or transmitting multi-player
game, music, or video files using the
school network.
Vandalizing, damaging, or disabling
property of the school or another individual
or organization.
Accessing another individual’s materials,
information, or files without permission.
Using the network or Internet for
commercial, political campaign, or
financial gain purposes.
Releasing files, home address, personal
phone numbers, passwords, or other vital
accessing information to others.
Promoting or soliciting for illegal activities.
Attempting to repair, remove or install
hardware components reserved for an
authorized service technician.
Violating copyright or other protected
material laws.
Subscribing to mailing lists, mass email
messages, games or other services that
generate several messages that can slow the
system and waste other users’ time and
access.
Intentionally wasting school resources.
Accessing blocked websites via proxy sites.
Consequences: The consequences of violating this guideline
may include but are not limited to the following:
In school suspension
Out of school suspension
Loss of laptop
Referral to law enforcement
Long term suspension or expulsion
from school
Any student who intentionally damages or
abuses a laptop or desktop computer on campus
will be disciplined as well as be held responsible
for paying the repair cost. A letter will be sent to
the parent(s) regarding repair costs along with an
explanation of the damage. Failure to pay repair
costs may result in loss of computer privileges
for that student along with loss of other
privileges at West Lee such as attending dances
and other extra-curricular activities for the
remainder of the school year until the cost is
paid.
WLMS — 12
Student Self-Defense: The privilege of student self-defense is
limited. A claim of self-defense when using
physical force will not exempt a student from
discipline when: the student provokes or
encourages the use of physical force by another;
the force being used against the student is lawful
(administrators or teachers); the student has an
opportunity to avoid force or to inform a school
official of threatened use of force; the student
uses force after the other student abandons or
attempts to abandon a confrontation.
Administrative Investigations: We are committed to creating a safe,
orderly environment for students and staff.
School Administrators & SRO are authorized
and responsible for investigating anti-social
behavior and other conduct that may violate
board policies, school standards or rules. All
employees and students, including students
alleged to have engaged in misconduct, are
expected to respond fully and truthfully to any
questions or issues raised in the course of the
investigation and any other related proceedings.
Authority to Conduct Searches &
Seizures: School administrators & SRO have the
authority to conduct reasonable searches & seize
materials in accordance with board policy for the
purpose of maintaining a safe, orderly
environment and for upholding standards of
conduct established by the board or school.
Reasonable suspicion that a student has an
unauthorized or illegal material is generally
required before an individual will be singled out
for a search. It is not a requirement for school
administrators to have parental consent or a
parent present when a student is being searched.
Any student being searched will include the
following that is detailed in LCS Board Policy
#4342:
when feasible, at least 2 adults present
(an administrator and another staff
member) if a student needs to be
searched, A student’s person and/or personal
effects (e.g. purse, book bag, etc.) may
be subject to search by an administrator
and/or SRO,
If a pat down search is necessary, it will
be conducted in private by a school
administrator of the same sex with
another adult witness present, when
feasible.
If school administrator has reasonable
suspicion to believe that the student has
on his/her person an item imminently
dangerous to the student or to others, a
more intrusive search of the student’s
person may be conducted. Such a
search would be conducted in private
with a school administrator of the same
sex with an adult witness of the same
sex present and only with prior
approval of the superintendent or
designee, unless the health or safety of
the student will be endangered by the
delay which might be caused by
following these procedures.
Parental contact or notification will be
attempted by a school administrator or
official upon the conclusion of a
student search.
Student Bullying, Harassment,
Intimidation, & Confrontation: West Lee Middle School has a “Zero
Tolerance” for any kind of student behavior(s)
which compromises the safety of other students
and staff or disrupts the learning process. Lee
County Schools Code of Student Conduct
(LCSCSC) includes the following rules that
address such behaviors & violations that, if
committed, result in immediate student discipline
up to Out-of-School Suspension and/or
Recommendation for Long Term Suspension:
Assault on or Physical Injury to Others
(LCSCSC Rule # 3)
Threatening, Insulting, Abusive or
Seriously Discourteous Words, Signs,
or Other Acts including Sexually
Related Acts (LCSCSC Rule # 8)
Disruption of School (Rule # 9)
Fighting (LCSCSC Rule # 13)
Discrimination, Harassment, and
Bullying (LCSCSC Rule # 15)
Unacceptable Physical Contact
(LCSCSC Rule # 16)
Gang Related Activities (LCSCSC Rule
# 26)
WLMS — 13
Consequences for Rule Violations:
Students learn best in a positive, nurturing and safe environment. The Positive Behavior Matrix lists our
expectations for student behaviors. Students who make the choice to conduct themselves in an improper fashion
should expect consequences. Actions that result in referral to the office may include: Warning, conference, lunch
detention, after school detention, ISS, OSS or other intervention determined by administration.
Combinations of Violations Students who violate a combination of regulations will be held accountable for these violations as if they were a
subsequent violation (suspension for multiple violations may run concurrently).
Repeated Violations
Students who habitually violate rules and disrupt the educational process will be charged with violation of Rule #21
of the "Lee County Schools' Student Code of Conduct," and may be given a 10 day suspension with the
recommendation to the superintendent for long term suspension.
Confiscation of Items
Any items that are impermissible, illegal, inappropriate, or cause a disruption of the educational process are subject
to confiscation.
Illegal items will be turned over to the school’s SRO. Impermissible items will be returned only to a parent or
guardian at the discretion of the school administrator. It is the responsibility of the parent to come to school to pick
up any confiscated item. Any confiscated items not picked up by July 1st from the previous school year may be
donated to a local charity. West Lee Middle School will not be responsible for any confiscated item not claimed by
a parent more than 20 business days after the end of the school year.
After School Detention (ASD)
After School Detention is a consequence for which a student may be assigned by an administrator for violation of
school or district rule. After School Detention begins immediately after school for 1 hour and is held in the In-
School-Suspension room. Students will either be required to complete classroom work or will be assigned to work
with an assigned custodian to help keep our school clean. Parents should arrive at school to pick up students by
4:00pm each afternoon. ANY STUDENT ASSIGNED AFTER SCHOOL DETENTION, BUT FAILS TO
SHOW, WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO RIDE THE BUS HOME THE DAY OF THEIR ASSIGNED
DETENTION.
In- School Suspension (ISS)
In-School Suspension is a consequence available at West Lee Middle School as an alternative to Out-of-School
suspension for certain policy violations. The minimum assignment is One (1) class period or entire school day.
Students assigned to In School Suspension are expected to abide by all the rules and regulations of the ISS
Coordinator. Choosing not to do so may result in extension of time to be served or 1 day Out-Of-School suspension.
While in ISS, students are given assignments that correspond as nearly as possible with the work being carried on in
the regular classroom. Credit is given for all work completed while in ISS. Doing the assigned work is a condition of
ISS. Any student in In-School Suspension is not allowed at any school or school system function during the course
of the assignment.
Out-Of-School Suspension (OSS) Out-of- School Suspension is a consequence that prohibits a student from attending school for an assigned number
of school days (Teacher Workdays & Holidays do not count). Students who commit more severe behavioral
infractions and students who repeatedly violate the standards of conduct will be suspended from school. Students
suspended out of school are not allowed on any Lee County Schools' property, both during and after school hours
for the course of the suspension unless written permission is given by the principal. OSS is considered to have ended
at 11:59pm of the last school day of OSS.
WLMS — 14
West Lee Middle School Tardy Policy
This Tardy Policy applies per student, per teacher, per Nine (9) week grading Period (Tardy count starts
over on the first school day of the new Nine (9) Week Grading Period).
Definition of a Tardy: The student is NOT in the assigned classroom (or assigned station) as defined by
the teacher, when the tardy bell rings…A Tardy may also apply to other class periods if deemed
appropriate. 1st Tardy : 1st Teacher Verbal Warning
2nd Tardy: Teacher/Team Discretion to Assign Student Detention*
3rd Tardy: Admin. Referral/Parent Contact/Assigned 1 Day of ASD or ISS
4th Tardy: Admin. Referral/Parent Contact/Assigned 2 Days of ASD or ISS
5th Tardy: Admin. Referral/Parent Contact/Assigned 3 Days ISS
6th Tardy: Admin. Referral/Parent Contact/Assigned 1 Day of OSS
7th Tardy: Admin. Referral/Parent Contact/Assigned 2 Days of OSS
8th Tardy: Admin. Referral/Parent Contact/Assigned 3 Days of OSS
9th Tardy: Admin. Referral/Parent Contact/Assigned 5 Days of OSS
10th Tardy: Admin. Referral/Parent Contact/Assigned 10 Days of OSS with
. Recommendation for Long Term Suspension and/or Bragg Street Placement **
*A teacher or team’s assigned detention may include (but not limited to) morning detention, after school
detention or lunch detention.
**Recommendation for Bragg Street Placement upon a student receiving his/her 10th
Tardy is included as
part of Lee County School’s Student Code of Conduct Rule #21.
Habitual Violation of School Rules: No student shall through habitual violation of local school or
classroom rules disrupt the educational process. Such habitual violations, no matter how minor, shall be
considered a major violation when the student's disciplinary record shows a clear pattern of
noncompliance with established rules and regulations. Violation of this rule may result in long-term
suspension.
WLMS — 15
School Bus Rules
School buses are state property, and riding is a privilege. Students who ride the bus are expected to conduct
themselves in an orderly manner. The school principal or assistant principals have the authority to suspend pupils
from riding the bus for behavior that threatens the safe and orderly operation of the school bus, including, but not
limited to, the following:
1. Refusing to obey the instructions or directions of Lee County School staff or bus drivers on any Lee County
campus.
2. Using or writing profanity, gang related or obscene gestures on the bus or at the bus stop.
3. Tampering with a school bus.
4. Unauthorized leaving of the bus from home to school or vice versa.
5. Delaying the bus schedule (i.e. Failure to meet the bus on time at the designated stops, failure to go directly to
assigned bus in the afternoon, etc.).
6. Playing, throwing any object (including paper, trash, pencils, or other objects) while the bus is in operation.
7. Talking too loudly, yelling, etc.
8. Boarding or riding an unassigned bus without permission from the school bus office.
9. Possessing food, drink or gum on a bus.
10. Bringing or transporting live animals on the bus.
11. Refusing to let another student sit down. This will result in an immediate suspension from the bus.
Likewise, there is to be no standing if seating is available.
12. Failure to sit in the student’s assigned seat.
13. Creating disturbances or interfering with the safety rules or well-being of the passengers or the drivers.
14. Failure to observe established safety rules and regulations.
15. Use of cellular phones and other wireless communication devices may be prohibited on buses when the noise
from such devices interferes with the safe operation of the buses (this does not include school related materials.)
16. Violation of West Lee Middle School Code of Conduct or Lee County Schools Code of Conduct.
School Bus General Rule Violation Consequences
It is to be understood that the consequences described below are the minimum actions to be taken and that the
principal has the authority to remove any student from the bus for minor misconduct (see LCS Code of Student
Conduct Rule # 24). Furthermore, incidents that violate school rules may result in ISS or OSS in addition to bus
suspension.
1. First Offense: Counsel with student; parent notification and maximum of 3 Days Off Bus.
2. Second Offense: 5 Days Off Bus
3. Third Offense: 10 Days Off Bus and may be suspended from bus for the remainder of school year.
4. Fourth Offense: Student will be suspended from the bus for the remainder of the school year.
School Bus Severe Rule Violation Consequences
Some incidents are considered more severe on a school bus because they endanger other students, the driver,
and other motorists on the roads. The following consequences will be applied to these violations.
Fighting on or near a bus:
First offense: 3 to 5 days out of school and 10 day bus suspension
Second offense: 10 days out of school suspension and bus suspension for the remainder of the year
Weapon/Drugs on or near a bus (possession, use or delivery)
Long term suspension and bus suspension for the remainder of the year
Physical or Sexual assault on another student or staff:
Long term suspension and bus suspension for the remainder of the year
WLMS — 16
Student Hall Pass
The teacher must initial indicating that the student
received permission to leave a designated area
Date
Time
Out
Time
In
Teacher
Initials
*Destination
Date
Time
Out
Time
In
Teacher
Initials
*Destination
WLMS — 17
The teacher must initial indicating that the student
received permission to leave a designated area
Date
Time
Out
Time
In
Teacher
Initials
*Destination
Date
Time
Out
Time
In
Teacher
Initials
*Destination
*1-lockers, 2-guidance, 3-library/media, 4-nurse, 5-office, 6-bathroom, 7-other(specify)