Sack lunchguidelines (no carbonated or energy drinks)
Conduct/Discipline Policy
BullyingPolicy
BusBehavior and Rules
Code ofConduct
Dress Code
In-SchoolSuspension
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PhysicalEducation Dress Code
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Harris County Carver Middle School
Home of the TIGER CUBS
School Colors: Black and Gold
Web site: www.hccmsonline.com
Dear HCCMS Students andParents:
On behalf of the faculty and staff,I welcome you to Harris County Carver Middle School. The middle school yearsare full of changes and growth as children develop into responsible youngadults. By working together, we can make these two formative years bothenjoyable and successful.
Use this handbook as a guide to therules, policies, and procedures that govern the operation of our school. In order to maintain a positive atmosphere that promotes learning, there areschool rules and regulations that each student must follow. It isessential that all students know the handbook contents and follow theprocedures.
Your involvement will contributegreatly to academic success. Now more than ever, it is important for parents totalk about daily class work assignments and communicate with teachers on aregular basis. Grade level counselors are available to coordinate conferenceswith the faculty as needed. Please use our website to stay current with schoolevents and Infinite Campus Parent Portal to monitor academic progress.
Our entire staff is here to help. Wepledge to work in partnership with you to achieve the best educationpossible. If we can assist you in any way, please let us know. Again, theHCCMS family welcomes you and your family as we enter a new and productiveschool year.
Sincerely,
Stacey Carlisle
Principal
Harris County Carver Middle School’sMission Statement
High Expectations
ChallengingCurriculum
Community Collaboration
+ Motivated Students
SUCCESS
ACCREDITATION
Harris County-Carver Middle School is accredited as aMiddle School by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and by theGeorgia State Department of Education.
NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY STATEMENT
TITLEIX
Harris County-Carver Middle Schoolwill comply with the Title IX rules and regulations implemented in the EducationAmendment of 1972. HCCMS will not discriminate on the basis of age,national origin, race, religion, sex or handicap in educational programs oractivities which it operates or in employment or personnel.
Inquiries concerning the applicationof the Title IX or 504 may be referred to the HCBOE PersonnelOffice, 504 Director, P. O. Box 388, Hamilton, GA 31811. The Directors maybe reached by phone at (706) 628-4206. Inquiries concerning theapplication of Title IX may also be made to the following address: Title504 Director, Office of Civil Rights, U. S. Department of Education, 101Marietta Tower, Atlanta, GA 30323.
It is HCCMS’ desire that thegrievance procedure provide for prompt and equitable adjustment of differencesat the lowest possible administrative level, and that each employee and studentbe assured opportunity for an orderly presentation and review of complaints andconcerns without fear of reprisal as a result of having presented a grievancefor review.
Policies outlining the proceduresfor filing complaints or grievances from employees or from students arecontained in the Board Policy Manual located in the Media Center and in theoffice of this principal. The description codes for the policies dealingwith complaints and grievances are GAE (for employees) and TCE (forstudents). These are available in the media center.
ATTENDANCE
It is very important that studentsattend every school day. In middle school, attendance is recorded for eachperiod of the day. Absences, late arrivals and early check outs negativelyimpact instruction and learning. Upon returning to school afterany absence, the student must bring a note from home to Mrs. Calhoun in themain office, signed by a parent or guardian, explaining the reason forthe absence. A student who is absent from school will not be allowedto participate in any extra-curricular activities for that day. Students whomiss 16 or more days of school may be denied credit for the year. Parentsof those students who are retained due to attendance may appeal the days. This can be done by contacting the counselor’s office.
The faculty and administration ofHCCMS does not condone absences except for those reasons defined by Boardpolicy. Family vacations and/or trips etc. are not acceptable excusedabsences from school. If a student has an extended illness, the parent shouldbe in touch with the school counselor, and the necessary assistance will begiven to help the child make up missed work. Teachers are allowed 24hours for assignment preparation. If a student is absent due tosuspension, work must be requested when suspension has been completed. The work must be completed and turned in within 5 days of return to school.
HCCMS ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES
HCCMS placeshigh importance on student attendance. The procedures for addressingstudent attendance are as follows:
a.Any child subject to compulsoryattendance with more than 5 days of unexcused absence will be consideredtruant.
b.Three days total unexcused absencesfor year: the attendance clerk will send a letter to the student’s parentsinforming them of the student’s attendance status.
c.Five days total absences for year:the attendance clerk will send a letter to the student’s parents informing themof a required meeting with the grade level counselor to address attendanceconcerns.
d.Ten days absent for year: theattendance clerk will send a letter to the student’s parents informing them ofthe student’s attendance status.
e.Sixteen days absent for year: theattendance clerk will send a letter to the parents informing them of possibleretention and loss of credit due to excessive absences. Parents are alsoinformed of the appeals process.
f.During post-planning, the gradelevel counselor will compile the documentation of the student’s attendancehistory. This documentation includes:
a)Attendance history as documented onInfinite Campus
b)Excuses from the homeroom teacher
c)Report card for the school year
d)Additional information pertinent tothe student’s history. This can include Student Support team information,documentation of medical illness, referral to school social worker, anecdotalrecords from teacher, counselor and/or assistant principal.
g.The grade level counselor will holdan attendance appeals hearing with one or more of the core academicteachers. The committee will make a decision for retention based on thedocumentation. The decision will be reviewed with the assistant principaland principal for final determination.
h.The grade level counselor willfinalize the student’s report card to address the committee’s decision.
i.Documentation of the appeals hearingwill be kept for one academic year after the date of the hearing.
Unexcused Tardiness to School:
There will be a tardy record kept for each student.
On the occasion of the third tardy per nine weeks, the grade level counselor will call the parent.
On the fourth and subsequent offense per nine weeks, the student will be assigned detention.
On the fifth and subsequent tardy per nine weeks, the student may be assigned to ISS.
A note from doctor, dentist, or court official will be the only acceptable excuse for tardiness.
Unexcused Absences from School:
On the third unexcused absence per nine weeks, the grade level counselor will call the parent.
On the fourth unexcused absence per nine weeks, the student will receive AM detention.
Hospital Homebound Services
The Harris County School Systemoffers Hospital Homebound Services for students who are too ill or injured toattend school. A student may qualify for regular or intermittent HospitalHomebound Services. Regular Hospital Homebound is where a student will beabsent from school for at least 10 days or more consecutively. IntermittentHomebound is where a student has a chronic illness that may require frequenthospitalizations or will be absent throughout the school year because of achronic illness. A licensed physician or psychologist must provide medicalcertification verifying the illness or injury. A student does not accumulateany absences while he or she is on Hospital Homebound status. You may contactyour school counselor for an application. If you have questions, you may callthe School Social Worker at 706-628-4206, Ext. 1220.
TRUANCY
Truancy is an unexcusedabsence. An excessive number of unexcused absences will be grounds forlegal action in accordance with the attendance laws of Georgia. Anexcessive number of absences may result in the school requiring a doctor’sexcuse for every absence. Students with 16 or more days absent from school maybe denied credit for the year. (See pg. 8 – Board Policy regarding CompulsoryAttendance & Absences and Excuses)
CHANGE OF ADDRESS OR PHONE NUMBERS
If there is a change of address orphone number during the school year, contact the main office in order for allnecessary files to be kept up to date.
EARLY ARRIVAL
7th grade students arrivingearly are to report to the front lobby for supervision until they are releasedto the gym. 8th Graders may report to the cafeteria. Students shouldnot arrive on campus before 7:15 AM.
ENROLLMENTSAND WITHDRAWALS
When a student enters or withdraws fromschool, a parent is required to come to the school to initiate theprocedure. After school starts, no student will be enrolled withoutwithdrawal forms from their previous school. When a student withdraws fromHCCMS, no records will be sent until all books are returned and all debts arepaid. Any student owing money from the previous year will not be issuedbooks until debts are cleared.
A new Certificate of Immunization(Form 3231) will serve as a means of documenting the immunization status forchildren who will be admitted to any facility or school in Georgia for thefirst time on or after August 1, 2001. The new Certificate ofImmunization (Form 3231) will replace the current certificate for school (Form3032). It may be accepted any time after February 1, 2000. It isnot necessary to replace the certificate (Form 3032) for children currentlyenrolled.
As each child enrolls in school, thecertificate will be checked to see whether it is marked “Complete for SchoolAttendance” or has an expiration date noted. If a form has an expirationdate, the child must submit a new certificate within 30 days after theexpiration date to be excluded from attendance until an updated certificate issubmitted. The Certificate must be marked one or the other in order forit to be valid. A “Date of Expiration” must be entered on allcertificates issued to children.
1.Under four years of age;
2.Four years of age and older who arein the process of receiving the
recommendeddoses of the required vaccines;
3.Children who have medical exemptionfor a vaccine that is due to be reviewed.
Dates of immunization are requiredon all certificates issued to children who are four years of age and older.
Highlights of the new immunizationrequirements are:
A child entering any childcarefacility or school in Georgia for the first time (at any age up to 19 years)must be age appropriately immunized with all of the required vaccines. (DTP, DtaP, DT, or Td: Hepatitis B; Hib; OPV or IPV; Measles, Mumps and Rubellaor MMR; and Varicella)
Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine hasjust been added to the list required for school attendance. Hepatitis Bvaccine is now required for a child at the time of entry to school. Previously it was a requirement for children born on or after January 1, 1992.
Two doses of measles-containingvaccine, one dose of mumps vaccine and one dose of rubella vaccine is nowrequired at the time of entry to school.
FAMILYEDUCATION RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)
Under the Family Educational Rightsand Privacy Act (20 U.S.C. 1232g) you have a right to:
1)Inspect and review the education records of a student who isyour child, or in the case of a student who is eighteen years of age (18) orolder, your own education records. Educational records maintained foryour child are:
Type of Record(s)Location(s)Contact Person(s)
Special Education (Back-upFile) HC Board Office Special Education Director
Special Education Due ProcessFile HC Board Office Special Education Director
CumulativeFile School School Building Principal
Regular EducationFile School School Building Principal
2)Request the amendment of thestudent’s education records to ensure that they are not inaccurate, misleading,or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy or other rights;
3)Consent to disclosures or personallyidentifiable information contained in the student’s education records, exceptto the extent that the Act authorizes disclosure without co sent;
4)File with the United StatesDepartment of Education a complaint under 20 C.F.R. 99.64, concerning thealleged failures by the Harris County Board of Education to comply with therequirements of the Act or the regulations promulgated hereunder; and
5)Obtain a copy of the policy whichthe board of Education has adopted regarding access to student records.
Copies of this policy may beobtained by contacting the central office of the Board of Education at P.O. Box388, Hamilton, Georgia 31811 or on-line. (www.harris.k12.ga.us)
OUTOF COUNTY STUDENTS
Eligibility: Only those students whoreside in Harris County shall be entitled to attend Harris Countyschools. The Harris County Board of Education, however, will accept andallow students to reside in the State of Georgia outside of Harris County toenroll and attend Harris County schools upon the payment of tuition andcompliance with its policy. Out-of-state students shall not be acceptedto attend Harris County schools except for children of teachers and employees.
Application: An out-of-county applicationmust be completed prior to initial enrollment and must be approved by theschool principal before enrollment is permitted. Enrollment is permitted at thebeginning of a semester only. No mid-semester enrollments shall bepermitted. Approval of this application is based upon the enrollment inthe grade at that particular school if space is available. Schoolprincipals shall refuse admission to students if the class size will beoverloaded so as to cause additional employees to be hired; and the admissionalso will be refused to students who have not paid the tuition due prior to thefifth school day.
School bus transportation from an existing bus stopwithin Harris County may be provided on a space available basis. Otherwise, the parents of out-of-county students shall be totally responsiblefor the transportation of the students from the place of residence to theschool in which the student is enrolled.
Out-of-county applicants who returnfor an ensuing school year will be required to fill out a renewal applicationand pay the tuition as provided for herein. Returning out-of-countystudents do not have a right to continued enrollment, and are subject toenrollment upon space being available at their grade level.
Tuition: Thetuition for an out-of-county student attending Harris County School shall be$4,200.00per school year ($2,100.00 persemester). The tuition shall be reviewed annually and set so as toreflect the average locally financial per student cost for the preceding schoolyear, excluding the local fair share funds required pursuant to O.C.G.A.§20-2-164. This fee is effective at the beginning of the school year andis payable by the semester (50% each) prior to the fifth day of eachsemester. Checks shall be made payable to the Harris County Board ofEducation. Principals shall forward all checks with the approvedapplication to the Central Office in a timely fashion. Such checks willbe deposited in the general fund of the school system. Refunds of 50% ofthe amount paid will be given for students who withdraw during the first sixweeks of either semester. After six weeks, no tuition refunds will begiven upon withdrawal.
Failure To Pay Tuition: Any parents of and studentresiding out-of-county enrolled in the Harris County School System who areeligible to pay tuition shall be responsible to see that tuition is paid. If an out-of-county student is discovered by school officials to be attendingHarris County schools without paying tuition, the student will be immediatelywithdrawn from school. The student shall be eligible for re-enrollment asan out-of-county student only upon the payment of all unpaid tuition plus apremium of fifty percent (50%) of the unpaid tuition. If the unpaidtuition and premium thereon is not paid within five (5) school days after thewithdrawal, the student shall not be eligible to attend Harris County schoolsin the future as a non-resident student. If an out-of-county student isfound to have not paid tuition and re-enrolls upon payment of the unpaidtuition and the premium thereon and then is found to not have paid tuition asecond time, the student shall be withdrawn and shall not be allowed to returnregardless of the circumstances.
Proof of Residency: Where the residency of astudent is in question the following information shall be considered indetermining the residency of a student. Parents are required to furnishthe school principal or superintendent all of this available information in atimely fashion upon request.
1)Proof of Harris County HomesteadExemption.
2)Proof of purchase of Harris Countyautomobile tag(s).
3)Proof of voter registration inHarris County.
4)Utility bills for one (1) year onboth residences where parents own two (2) or claim two (2) separate residencesand one (1) being outside Harris County.
Determination of Residency: Using the foregoinginformation, the place of residence of the child willbe:
1)The bona fide residence of bothparents of the child; or if one parent is deceased, the residence of thesurviving parent; or if the parents are divorced or living separately, theresidence of the parent having actual custody of the child pursuant to anappropriate order of a Superior Court or similar court of another state havingjurisdiction of the parties at the time such order is rendered; provided thatthe provisions of this paragraph shall not apply if the right of a parent orparents to custody and possession of a child has been terminated as authorizedby law, by a court, or state agency having jurisdiction. The term parentor parents as used herein means natural parents and shall also include adoptiveparents by virtue or legal adoption pursuant to law.
2)In the instance of a student who ingood faith resides full time in Harris County with another family member otherthan his parent or parents who is in loco parentis, the residenceof such family member may be the residence of such student if theSuperintendent in each instance shall find and determine (a) that such studentdoes in fact reside full time with such relative and (b) the parents of thechild cannot be located or their whereabouts are unknown (c) that suchresidency is not attempt to circumvent the provisions of this policy. Atransfer of guardianship to a Harris County family member shall not be the soledetermining factor in deciding whether a student resides with the family memberin compliance with this policy.
Appeals: Appeals of this issue shallfollow the school system Student Complaint Policy. During the appealsprocess the student shall not remain enrolled at the school he is attendingunless he pays the tuition. If as a result of the appeal, it isdetermined that the student is a resident of Harris County, the tuition will berefunded.
SOCIALSECURITY NUMBERS
According to Georgia Law, allstudents enrolling in Georgia Schools must present an official copy of theirsocial security number. This means that a school official needs to seethe social security card or an official document that verifies thenumber. HCCMS staff will make a copy to place in the student’sfolder. If a parent objects to a student’s social security number frombeing incorporated into the student’s record, the parent must sign a statement(waiver) to that effect.
NUTRITION
BREAKFAST/LUNCH (Pricessubject to change)
Full PriceBreakfast: 1.25 Full PriceLunch: $2.25 EmployeeLunch: $3.00
Students who choose not to eat aschool lunch may bring a lunch from home; however, carbonated drinks, candy,and glass containers are not allowed. Students are encouraged to prepay forthe week/month. During homeroom on Mondays students are allowed to go tothe cafeteria to prepay. Parents can now update the student’s lunch accountonline at https://eps.mvpbanking.com/cgi-bin/efs/login.pl?access=55322.
In an emergency situation studentsmay charge a school lunch. Repayment of the charge is expected the nextschool day. If a student has an unusual number of charges (more thanthree), the administration reserves the right to deny the student anyadditional charges.
Free and reduced applications formeals are sent home on the first day of school. Once applications arereturned and processed, parents are notified if their child qualifies for freeor reduced meals.
CONDUCT/DISCIPLINE POLICY
BULLYINGPOLICY
HCCMS does not tolerate or condone bullybehaviors. Once a student is alleged of bullying (behaviors, comments, and/orthreats that are considered objectionable, unwelcome, and threatening byanother student(s)) or adult in the Harris County School System, they arereported to the counselor. The counselor evaluates the situation byinterviewing the victim and alleged student as well as witnesses. The allegedstudent is counseled as to why the behavior is identified as bullying. ABullying Policy Warning contract is signed by the alleged student. Thecounselor contacts the parent. If an incident of this nature occurs again, itmay result in ISS or OSS.
*Anyphysical contact is automatically reported to the grade leveladministrators.
BUSBEHAVIOR AND RULES
Students who ride the bus have certainresponsibilities for the comfort and safety of other students as well as forthemselves. It is very important that students conduct themselves in anorderly manner at the bus stop and on the bus. The bus driver hasauthority over any circumstance arising on the bus.
Students may ride ONLY theirassigned bus. If it becomes necessary for a student to ride a bus otherthan his or her own bus, the student must bring a written request signed byparent. Due to limited bus space and safety concerns, requests shouldonly be made in extreme circumstances due to childcare/supervision needs andmay be denied if space is not available. Students should bring the signedparent request to their grade level office during homeroom forconsideration/approval.
Suspension of bus privileges willnot exceed one school year (180 days); however bus suspensions may includeparts of two consecutive school years. For more information on the rules forthe bus, please see the Harris County Board of Education Student Behavior Codeand Attendance Protocol.
CODEOF CONDUCT
It is the purpose of the HarrisSchool District to operate each school in a manner that will provide an orderlyprocess of education and that will provide for the welfare and safety of allstudents who attend the schools within the district. In accordance withthat purpose, the Board of Education has adopted a policy, which requiresstudents to conduct themselves at all times in order to facilitate a positivelearning environment for themselves and other students. These standardsfor behavior require students to respect each other and school districtemployees, to obey student behavior policies adopted by the Board and to obeystudent behavior rules established at each school within the district.
The Harris County School District’sprimary goal is to educate, not to punish; however, when the behavior of anindividual student comes in conflict with the rights of others, correctiveactions may be necessary for the benefit of that individual and the school as awhole. Accordingly, students shall be governed by policies, regulationsand rules set forth in the Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct is availableonline at www.harris.k12.ga.us .Also, students may be disciplined for conduct off campus, which is felonious,or which may pose a threat to the school’s learning environment or the safetyof students and employees. Parents are encouraged to become familiar withthe Code of Conduct and to be supportive of it in their daily communicationwith their children and others in the community.
Placesand Times of Enforcement
The following rules are designed toprotect all members of the educational community in the exercise of theirrights and duties. These rules are effective during the following timesand in the following places:
On the school grounds during and immediately before or immediately after school hours or off school grounds while in route to or from school.
On the school grounds at any other time outside of school hours.
Off the school grounds at a school activity, function, or event.
In route to and from school on a school bus or other school vehicle or while waiting off school grounds for a school bus to transport a student to or from school or a school activity.
Off school grounds when the prohibited conduct is directed, because of a school-related connection, against the person, family, property, privacy or tranquility of an employee of the Harris County Board of Education.
Apply to conduct by student whether directed to or committed upon another student or a teacher, administrator, or other school personnel or toward persons attending school related functions.
ProgressiveDiscipline Procedures
When it is necessary to imposediscipline, school administrators and teachers will follow a progressivediscipline process. The degree of discipline to be imposed by each schoolofficial will be in proportion to the severity of the behavior of a particularstudent and will take into account the student’s discipline history, the age ofthe student and other relevant factors.
The Code of Conduct provides asystematic process of behavioral correction in which inappropriate behaviorsare followed by consequences. Disciplinary actions are designed to teachstudents self-discipline and to help them substitute inappropriate behaviorswith those that are consistent with the character traits from Georgia’sCharacter Education Program. The following disciplinary actions may beimposed for any violation of this Code of Conduct:
Warning and/or Counseling with a School Administrator or Counselor
Loss of Privileges
Administrative Isolation
ISS (In School Suspension)
OSS (Out of School Suspension)
Temporary Removal from Class or Activity
Notification of Parents
Parent Conference
Detention
Temporary Placement in an Alternative Education Program
Short-term Suspension
Referral to a Tribunal for Long-term Suspension or Expulsion
Suspension or Expulsion from the School Bus
Referral to Law Enforcement or Juvenile Court Officials: Georgia law requires that certain acts of misconduct be referred to the appropriate law enforcement officials when school officials determine such referral to be necessary or appropriate.
Administrative Isolation
The maximum punishment for anoffense include long-term suspension or expulsion, including permanentexpulsion, but those punishments will be determined only by a disciplinarytribunal as outlined in the Harris County of Education policies. Majoroffenses, including, but not limited to, drug and weapon offenses can lead to aschool being named as an Unsafe School according to the provisions of StateBoard of Education Rule 160-4-8.16 Unsafe School Choice Option.
Parents or students may elect not tocontest whether a student has violated the Code of Conduct or the appropriatediscipline, and in such case, an agreement may be negotiated which wouldinclude the parents or students waiving a right to a hearing before adisciplinary tribunal. Such an agreement and waiver must be approved alsoby the disciplinary tribunal or hearing officer in accordance with local boardpolicy.
Before a student is suspended forten days or less, the principal or designee will inform the student of theoffense for which the student is charged and allow the student to explain hisor her behavior. If the student is suspended, the student’s parents shallbe notified. School officials may involve law enforcement officials whenevidence surrounding a situation necessitates their involvement or when thereis a legal requirement that an incident be reported.
School officials have the authorityto search a student if there is suspicion the student is in possession of anitem that is illegal or against school rules. Student vehicles brought oncampus; student book bags, school lockers, desks and other school property aresubject to inspection and search by school authorities at any time withoutfurther notice to students or parents. Students are required to cooperateif asked to open book bags, locker or any vehicle brought on campus. Metal detectors and drug or weapon sniffing dogs may be utilized at school orat any school function, including activities, which occur outside normal schoolhours, or off the school campus at the discretion of administrators.
The following offenses may result inthe assignment of In School Suspension (ISS) or Out of School Suspension (OSS)or a combination of the ISS and OSS: (or other offenses as decided by theadministration)
Theft
Profanity
Fighting
Chronic Misbehaviors
Blatant Disrespect of Authority
Smoking, Tobacco Products
Vandalizing
Sexual Harassment
Each day of ISS: 2 points arededucted from the 9 weeks conduct grade. Each day of OSS: 3 points are deductedfrom the 9 weeks conduct grade.
Tiger Points System
The HCCMS Tiger Point system isdesigned to assist students in monitoring the appropriateness of their conduct.The system is used to identify inappropriate classroom behaviors. Pointsare deducted from the student’s starting total of 100 by teachers,administrators and school staff for violation of student handbookpolicies. The points deducted may range from 3-5 points depending uponthe seriousness of the offense. Points start at 100 every 9 weeks. Each time students have reached a point total of 85, they will be assignedmorning detention by an administrator. At 80 points they will receive 1day of ISS. At 70 points the student will be assigned a behavioralcontract and will lose school privileges.
THE GOAL IS FOR THE STUDENTS TOEXERCISE CONTROL OVER THEIR OWN CONDUCT BY MAINTAINING A POINT TOTAL OF 100.
Students who have points deductedfrom their 100 will have the opportunity to earn back up to 10 points duringthe course of a 9 week period.
DisciplinePlan Overview
Points/Conduct Grade:
All students will begin each 9 weekswith 100 points. The final conduct grade will be posted on progressreports and report cards.(S=100-86 Points; NI=85-71 Points; U=70Points & below)
Students will be given a point slip when they have had points deducted from their total.
Parent signature is required on the point slip and it must be returned within two days to the homeroom teacher or student will be assigned morning detention.
If a teacher deducts points for any offense three times, he/she will make phone contact with the parent.
A copy of the point slip must be given to the homeroom teacher within three days of assigning a student points, five days maximum, or the points will be discarded.
The conduct grade will be linked to the point system.
Students will be given opportunities to earn back up to 10 points per nine weeks and if their total goes back up to 100 points, they will receive the perks each nine weeks for 100 points.
Detention:
When students have a total of 15 points deducted from their 100 average in conduct, they will be referred to an administrator and be assigned detention.
Detention is during the student’s assigned lunch period in room 802. Students will take their lunch to “time out” settings for detention.
Students will eat lunch after signing-in in room 802.
Detention will be conducted daily.
Administration will call to notify parents of lunch detention.
Students who do not return signed point slip within two days will be assigned at least one day detention.
Waysto Earn Back Points
Volunteer to come in early stay after school and assist a classroom teacher.
Volunteer to pick-up litter around the campus. (under the supervision of school personnel or parent)
Volunteer to work in the campus gardens. (under the supervision of a science teacher or parent)
Volunteer at a nursing home, hospital, childcare center, charitable event, or any other appropriate community service organization.
All students must pick-up a form from their grade level administrator.
Prior approval must be obtained from the grade level administrator and campus personnel in which the student will be working with.
Once the student has the documentation of participation he/she can receive Tiger Bucks from the school staff member he/she worked with or if services were conducted off campus he/she can give the documentation to his/her homeroom teacher in order to receive his/her points.
It is the responsibility of the student to give all Tiger Bucks to their homeroom teachers in order for the points to be earned back.
One hour of service earns one point. Students may earn up to 10 points back.
DRESSCODE
The dress code for HCCMS is designedfor safety and decency. Everyone at Harris County-Carver Middle School isexpected to dress in a manner that reflects modest, neatness and self respect.Therefore, EXTREMES IN DRESS OR GROOMING THAT MAY CAUSE A DISTRACTION IN THECLASSROOM WILL NOT BE ALLOWED AT SCHOOL. With this in mind, we will try toaddress all dress code violations during homeroom. As it is with a speedingmotorist, not all dress code violations are caught every time. As a staff, wewill be as consistent as possible in enforcing the dress code. We ask thatparents check what their children are wearing before they leave for school. Studentsnot dressed according to the code will be sent to their grade level office tocall home for the parent to bring appropriate clothing. If the parent is unableto bring appropriate clothing or is unable to be reached, the student willspend the remainder of the day in ISS. Students will not remain in theregular classroom environment not meeting the code.
The administration recognizes theinconvenience involved for parents to bring corrective clothing to schoolduring the day; however this is required for the dress code to be applied andenforced consistently.
Students may enjoy current fashion,but the school reserves the right to inform individuals when their attire doesnot meet the spirit of the dress standards for HCCMS.
It is the duty of each teacher to ensure that the dress code is enforced.
It is the responsibility of the parent to ensure that the dress code is observed.
It is the responsibility of each student to be knowledgeable of and comply with HCCMS dress code policy.
It is the final decision of the administration to ensure that the dress code is adhered to strictly.
STUDENTS SHOULD OBSERVE THEFOLLOWING GUIDELINES:
A.Shirts should be tucked in. Banded shirts or baby doll shirts that provide coverageof the stomach and back are acceptable not tucked.
B.For safety reasons, loose fitting oversized clothing isnot allowed at school. Pant legs must be of equal length and may nottouch the floor. Sagging pants are not allowed. Oversized pants that willnot stay up at the waist/hips should not be worn to school or to a schoolfunction.
C.Jeans that are torn or ripped should not be worn. Holesin clothing are NOT allowed. Openings must be patched. Students will not be allowed to wear tights, pajama pants, or any other item ofclothing under the clothing to cover the holes. Students may not use tapeto cover the holes.
D.Pajamas should not be worn to school.
E.Body cleanliness is required at alltimes.
F.Hats, athletic headbands, bandanas,stocking caps, and sunglasses are not to be worn at school at any time. Combs,picks, and pencils may not be worn in hair.
G.Appropriate shoes are to be worn at all times. Shoesmay be sandals, dress or athletic. They must be worn as designed withlaces tied, fasteners fastened, etc. Heels and soles may not be more than2 inches high or thick for safety reasons. Stacks, beach-type,flip-flops, and house shoes are considered inappropriate at school and are notallowed.
H.The back, shoulders and mid-section of the body are to becovered at all times.Plain white undershirts or T-shirts may notbe worn as an outer garment. Tank tops and shirts with spaghetti strapsare prohibited. Sleeves must cover the tops of the shoulders andundergarments should not be visible. For safety reasons, as well asappearance, shirts and blouses must be long enough to be tucked andremainin. Clothes that are too tight or revealing areprohibited. Sleeveless shirts cut low under the arms should be worn with aT-shirt underneath.
I.Shorts/skirts/dresses/jumpers mustbe at a modest andappropriate length above the knee that does notdistract from theeducational process. Skirts have to be at anappropriate length with or without leggings. Leggings cannot be worn tomake up for skirts that are too short.
J.Mesh/see-through clothing is not tobe worn at school.
K.Clothing with suggestive lettering, pictures, symbols, andvulgarity, alcohol or drug depictions will not be allowed. Any writtenlettering, clothing, etc. related to gangs is inappropriate and should notappear on students or notebooks. Clothing depicting extreme political andsocial viewpoints considered detrimental to school morale are not appropriatefor school.
L.Proper undergarments should be wornat all times. They should not draw attention through clothing.
M.Heavy chains, dog collars, or metal studded bracelets, etc.,may not be worn in school. Chains attached to wallets should not be worn.
N. Pornographic materials and articles are prohibited.
O.Body piercing with earrings in body parts other than the earis prohibited.
P.Extremes in style and hair color areconsidered a classroom distraction. Hair that is colored or streaked red,blue, green, orange, purple, yellow, or any other color that are distracting isnot allowed at school.
Q.Students should not write on their clothes or bodies.
R.Gloves will not be worn in the school during the school day.
S.No Blankets should be brought toschool.
T.Bulky outerwear (coats, jackets,sweatshirts, etc.) may not be worn while inside the building.
See explanation below:
APPROPRIATE (throughout the schoolday) INAPPROPRIATE (during the school day)
(LIGHTWEIGHT OUTERWEAR)(HEAVY WINTER OUTERWEAR)
windbreakers trench coats
wind suitsw/matchingjackets oversized hoodies
lightweightjackets overstuffed fleece jackets
sweaters heavy coats
corduroyor denim jackets quilted jackets
hoodies snow or ski jackets
vests flight jackets
Procedures for Dress Codeviolations:
Students, who are reported asviolatingthe dress code, will be sent to the office for a warning and will be instructedto correct their clothing. If it is not possible to correct a dress codeviolation, students may be placed in ISS for the remainder of the school day.On subsequent occasions students may receive in school or out of schoolsuspension or a combination of both.
IN-SCHOOLSUSPENSION
Students assigned to ISS will reportto the ISS table in the lunchroom upon their arrival to school if it is before7:55. If students arrive late to school, they will report directly to the ISSclassroom. Class work is sent directly to the ISS teacher from each classroomand connection teacher for the duration of the time to be served. The ISSteacher will make sure each student in ISS gets the work assigned to them whilethey are in ISS, and the ISS teacher will see that all assignments and testsare returned to the classroom or connection teachers who sent the work to ISS.If students assigned to ISS, fail to complete their assigned work, or ifbehavior is not satisfactory, students may be assigned an additional day ofISS. Extreme or chronic misbehavior in ISS may result in Out-of-SchoolSuspension (OSS). If a student assigned to ISS checksout of schoolbefore 2:30 p.m., that student may be required to serve another day in ISS.A student cannot exceed ten days in ISS per semester.
LEAVINGSCHOOL GROUNDS
Once students board a bus and/orarrive on campus, they are not to leave the school grounds for any reasonwithout permission from the principal or assistant principal. Leavingschool grounds without permission is considered skipping school and warrants animmediate referral. Students not departing school via school buses shouldreport to the parent pick-up/drop-off in back of the building. Students notpicked-up by 3:45 p.m. will be escorted to the cafeteria. At 3:45 p.m.,any students not yet picked-up will report to the main entrance lobby. Parents/Guardians should enter the building to sign-out the student when theyarrive to pick them up between 3:45 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
PHYSICALEDUCATION DRESS CODE
The Physical Education dress codefor all students is DARK shorts or long DARK athletic pants,white t-shirts (with appropriate print) or any color shirt that has aHarris County logo on it, socks, and tennis shoes. The student willbe responsible for providing his or her own PE clothes. The book storewill have available, for students to purchase, affordable shorts and t-shirts.
Students are expected to dress outand participate daily. Failure to participatewill result in a ‘0’ for the student’s daily grade. All students will berequired to remove ALL jewelry before participating inclass. Teachers will not be responsible for the security of students’belongings. Students are encouraged to bring a lock for a dressing roomlocker. Locks must be removed at the end of gym class each day. Students will not be allowed to go to their regular lockers during PE.
Gym bags may be used to transportclothes.
SCHOOLDANCE RULES
Dances at HCCMS are for the benefitof our students only. Dance Admission is $4.00. Concessions willbe available for purchase.
School dances are from 3:30-5:30pm. Students not picked up by 6:00pm may be assigned detention or denied attendance of future after school events.
No one can leave the building (cafetorium or gym).
School dress code and behavior code are to be followed.
Failure to comply with any school rules will result in disciplinary action.
8th Grade Dance is an informal affair held at the end of the school year for the eighth grade students only.
Parents will need to sign out and pick up the students from the main entrance the cafeteria by the PTA store in order for them to leave the dance.
The board policy defines andprovides the requirements for short-term suspension, long-term suspension andexpulsion. Also provided for are the hearing procedures for theimposition of disciplinary actions against students that involve short-term orlong-term suspension and expulsion.
TECHNOLOGY
COMPUTERAND INTERNET USE, POLICY, AND PROCEDURES
One mission of the Harris CountyBoard of Education is to provide a learning environment that enables students todevelop their potential as unique individuals and as contributing citizens in ademocratic society and world community.
HarrisCounty-Carver Middle School believes that furnishing students and staff withthe technological means to obtain and use information sources from distantcomputers will provide students and staff with the ability to share informationwith individuals, schools, governments, non-profit organizations and commercialinstitutions beyond the school, the region and the nation. Instructionalmedia programs will have the capability to facilitate communications to supportresearch as well as the capability to broaden the local educational community’slink to other valuable academic opportunities.
Use of theInternet and its access in Harris County Schools shall reflect the values ofthe community. An individual’s use of the computing resources provided byHarris County Schools is not an absolute, personal right; rather, it is aprivilege conditional on the individual’s compliance with state and federallaws, school regulations, and ethical conduct. This section providesguidelines for what typically constitutes acceptable use, misuse, policy, andprocedures concerning Harris County Schools’ computing facilities.
COMPUTER & INTERNET USE
Computers and the Internet in HarrisCounty Schools are used for Instructional and Administrative support andfunctions. Acceptable computer and Internet use as it relates toinstruction:
1.Every classroom has computers and Internet access availablefor student use in doing individual, small group, and classroom projects. It is expected that students will:
a.Use the equipment in a careful and responsible manner.
b.Use the software in the way the vendor/manufacturer/teacherintended.
c.Honor copyright guidelines and laws.
d.Use digital cameras, scanners, and other peripheralequipment properly and with care.
e.Stay on task doing instructional assignments and projects.
f.Conserve paper and ink resources.
2.All users are expected to abide by the generally acceptedpractices of digital citizenship and network etiquette. These include,but are not limited to, the following. It is expected that students will:
a.Use the computer or Internet for instructional purposes onlyas directed by their teacher.
b.Obey all laws with respect to use of the intellectualproperty of others and copyright.
c.Be polite and respectful. Students will not sendabusive messages to others. Any form of insults or threats (cyber-bullying)will be treated as bullying and handled according to Harris County Boardpolicy.
d.Use appropriate language. Students will not swear, usevulgarities or any other inappropriate language. They will not engage inactivities which are prohibited under state or federal law.
e.Protect personal information, passwords, address, and phonenumbers and will not share them with others. Users must never divulge orallow others to use their password.
f.Only use accounts assigned to them. Students will never loginto another person’s account, disguise or hide their identity, or changeanother user’s name or password.
g.Use communications including e-mail, forums, blogging, etc.only under the direction of their teachers for instructional purposes. These communications should always reflect appropriate language and intent.Persistent annoyance of another user or interference of another user’s work isprohibited.
h.Use the network or computer in such a way that will notdisrupt its use by other users. Students will not impair the usability ofany computer or related system or peripheral. This includes:
i.Degrading or altering theperformance of a computer or communications system
ii.Destroying or altering the files ofanother user
iii.Uploading or creating computerviruses.
iv.Assume that all informationaccessible via the network (local or Internet) to be the intellectual propertyof its creator and protected by copyright laws.
As with any other type of studentmisconduct, computer misuse and abuse will be dealt with in accordance withjudicial policy outlined in the student handbooks. Punishments mayinclude fines, academic suspension, expulsion, and possible incarceration. Harris County Schools use network utilities, which trace most activities on itscomputer systems and can, therefore, detect improper use. Willful misuseor abuse of computer resources is almost always obvious and unambiguous, andthe school system will not tolerate it.
GENERALCOMPUTER AND INTERNET POLICY AND PROCEDURES AT HCCMS
·The use of HCCMS computers and theInternet is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use may result in acancellation of this privilege.
·The media specialist, teacher, ordesignated person will monitor students during the use of computers and theInternet. The primary use of Galileo and Internet is for researchpurposes with major curriculum related projects.
·In the Computer Lab and in theclassroom, teachers will guide students’ learning/discovery sessions.
·Students who do not have consent touse the computer or Internet will be given alternative assignments.
·Use of the Internet will berestricted through specific software to limit access to most undesirable areas.Students are restricted from visiting sites that are non-instructional innature and content on all computers throughout the building.
·Purchase of products, services orinformation is strictly forbidden.
·Checking personal Internet accountsis not authorized at HCCMS at any time. This activity is consideredpersonal in nature and left to parental supervision at home.
·Security on the network is a highpriority. Users must never divulge or allow others to use theirpassword. Use of another individual’s account is prohibited withoutauthorization by an appropriate system staff member and the written permissionof the account owner. Account owners are ultimately responsible for allactivities under their account.
·The identity of any security problemsshould be reported to the network manager immediately and never demonstrated toother users. Attempts by a user to log on as a network manager isprohibited.
·The principal of HCCMS shalldetermine inappropriate use. Their decision is final.
Computer and Internet Usage Violation Procedures
ViolationDisciplinary Action*
Accessing or deliberately attempting to - Parent contact
access an inappropriate ornon-educational - Permanent loss of Internet access privileges
website -Other action under Georgia law
Using abusive or inappropriate - Parent contact
language - Permanent loss of Internet access privileges
or network, or any other actionthat - Permanent loss of computer and/or Internet
would be deemed damagingto access privileges
either the hardware or thesoftware - In-School Suspension
- Out-of-School Suspension
- Other action under Georgia law
* Disciplinaryaction may be taken which will depend on the severity and frequency of the violationand may include any and all of the consequences listed on these pages.
USEOF STUDENT IMAGES AND STUDENT WORK
During the current school year, yourchild’s image/photograph or work may be included in a classroom or schoolproject that could be used in one of the following ways:
As a demonstration project/activity in education workshops/classes/conferences
As a sample project/activity on CD’s created by Harris County Carver Middle School for use in education workshops and student classrooms
Posted on the Harris County Carver Middle School or Harris County School System web pages on the Internet
Submitted as samples to program publishers or as contest entries to sponsors
Appear on videotape made during a student presentation of their project, or in broadcasts or videotapes demonstrating computer multimedia in general
Videotaped to appear in a school related program to be used by a local television station or school/county project
In a printed publication such as a newspaper or magazine
No last name or address will beincluded with your child’s picture when publishing on the Web. There isno monetary compensation for the use of the work. The release form isincluded with the Internet Use and Computer Agreement. Your signaturegrants us approval to publicize without prior notification. You mayrevoke permission or request removal for specific uses of student images orstudent work in writing to any Harris County Middle School Administrator.
ParentalNotification and Consent
**PARENTS PLEASE NOTE**:TheInternet and Computer Use Agreement form is located in the back of thisParent-Student Handbook and must be completed and signed before a student canmake use of Computer and Internet services at HCCMS.
STUDENT INFORMATION
BOOKBAGS
Book bags will be allowed for thepurpose of transferring books to and from school. Book bags and largepurses/totes are to remain in lockers while at school and may notbe carried to classes. Gym bags may not be carried throughoutthe day as backpacks.
CLUBSAND ACTIVITIES (subject to change)
4-H – Meets monthly at HCCMS. They are involved incommunity projects. Students learn leadership and speaking skills as theywork on 4-H projects with the county extension agents.
Drama Club –The drama club is a great opportunity for students withinterest in dramatic performance, lighting or set creation.
Jr. Beta Club – This group is a service organization. They wereinvolved in collecting and wrapping Christmas gifts last year. Studentsmust meet academic and character requirements.
Academic Team –Students compete in a quiz bowl setting against othermiddle schools in Troup, Meriwether, Carroll, and Coweta counties. Students tryout for the team and are selected based on their academic knowledge andquickness on the buzzer.
ABC Club – Bible study, character education and motivationalprograms.
Art Club – Artistic and creative students work on recreational andenrichment art projects with Ms. Eskey
Chess/Game Club - Games of strategy and logic will be explored andchallenged among campus based teams.
County Christians -meets twice a month. You do not have to be anathlete to join. It is a group of students who have a common interest indeveloping positive lifestyles and character traits through discussion andspeakers.
Fit Club – Exercise and lifestyle fitness for students with plans toparticipate in local events.
Math Team – The team competes in the local area. All interested andmathematically motivated students should sign up for try outs. Competitions canrequire 4 to 12 students. Math teachers will provide additional information.
Leadership Club – Students will develop character, speaking and leadershipskills.
Youth Crime Watch of America – The Youth Crime Watch of America is a serviceorganization that helps make HCCMS a safer place. These students monitorthe halls in the mornings while other students are going to their lockers.
Velocity – A middle school division of Teen Advisors who desire tomake wise life choices and to be role models in their schools. V-Daycompletion is required along with Velocity registration.
Pep Club –Supports all school teams through banners, positiveincentive notes and encouragement.
Garden Club – Members along with faculty sponsors help beautify andmaintain our courtyards through managing plants and ornamental ponds.
Student Council – The Student Council is an elected body of representativesfrom each grade level who pledge to serve in the best interest of all studentsat HCCMS. The purpose of the Student Council is to provide students an appropriatemeans of communication between faculty, administration, and the community. Itis designed to provide leadership training and promote school spirit andresponsible citizenship. Student Council representatives will be nominated andelected by their grade-level peers. Eligibility requirements for StudentCouncil are the same as for other extra-curricular activities; participantsmust have passed six out of seven subjects for the preceding semester, and mustmaintain these grade requirements during the time they serve.
Techy Tigers – This club is for studentsinterested in expanding their skills using computers.
Peer Helpers - Peerhelpers are students who are specially trained to help other students solveproblems, resolve conflicts, and improve adaptive skills. Some of ourpeer helpers also provide tutoring to other students, if requested. Peerhelpers are selected through a process of teacher recommendations and studentnominations. If a student is interested in becoming a peer helper, theyneed to contact a counselor’s office. If students would like assistancefrom a peer helper, they should ask their teacher or fill out a request formthat they can get from their counselor’s office.
School Spirit Scrapbooking – This is a student scrapbooking club that will archive theschool’s year of events.
DELIVERIES
Any delivery of flowers or balloonsto students is not permitted. Any other items that might disrupt orinterrupt classes unnecessarily should not be delivered to students at school.
EXTRACURRICULAR/ATHLETICACTIVITIES
The following is a list ofeligibility requirements for extracurricular activities. Thestudent:
1.Has passed in 6 out of 7 subjectsthe semester immediately preceding participation.
2.Is an amateur.
3.Is not playing on a school team andsome other team during the same period of time.
4.Students may participate in certainall-star games without loss of eligibility
5.Is in a 7th or 8thgrade homeroom (ATHLETES ONLY).
6.Has not attained his/her 14thbirthday prior to May 1 proceeding the 7th grade school year.
7.Has not attained his/her 15thbirthday prior to May 1 proceeding the 8th grade school year.
8.Conducts herself/himself in a propermanner at all times.
9.Attends school and class daily. Onthe day of any scheduled extracurricular activity, students must be present atleast one half of the school day to participate on that day.
10.Students checking into school late must bring their tardypass to their coach or extracurricular activity sponsor.
Harris County Board of Education shallensure that no student, on the basis of gender, be excluded from participationin, be denied the benefits of, be treated differently from another student, orotherwise be discriminated against in any interscholastic or intramuralathletics offered in the school district.
If a student is suspended during thetime of an extra-curricular activity or athletic contest, he/she will not beallowed to participate. If absent the day of a game or athletic event, ora school-sponsored after school activity, the student may notparticipate. If a student is absent for more that ½ of the school day,they are considered absent. Non-participation in athletics does not allowone to refuse to participate in regular P.E.
Only students involved inextra-curricular activities are to remain after school. Any student oncampus after 3:30 p.m. must report directly to a supervising faculty member. Those students being picked up by parents must wait at the front of thebuilding. Parents should pick up students promptly when after schoolactivities are over. Proper behavior is expected at all times.
Activity Bus for Extra CurricularActivities/Practices (pending availability)
An activity bus may be available toassist with after school transportation from HCCMS to drop-off points withinthe county. In order for a student to ride the activity bus, the parentmust communicate a need with the coach or activity sponsor. Once the needis communicated by the parent, the coach/sponsor will submit the name, addressand student information to the bus shop. A student may NOT begin ridingthe activity bus until cleared by the Harris County Transportation Department,at which point the student’s name will be added to the activity busroster. Only students whose names have been cleared and added to theroster may be transported. The times and drop-off points are subject tochange during the course of the year based on need and availability.
Transportation for Extra CurricularEvents/Games
All students who participate inextracurricular events must ride to the event on the bus with the team coach orgroup sponsor.
1.Students may be allowed to ride homefrom off campus extra-curricular/athletic events with a parent or designatedadult upon written authorization from the parent/guardian of petitioningstudent. The request must be turned into the sponsor or coach andapproved by an administrator, if at all possible, no later than the morning ofthe day that the event is to take place. The coach/sponsor will be responsiblefor collecting the written requests and maintaining a file for one year.
2.Students may be dismissed from thebus at their homes on a direct route from extra-curricular/athletic activities.
3.In emergency situations thecoach/sponsor should use professional judgment and discretion. A writtenreport of these emergencies should be made to the principal within five days ofthe emergency.
GUIDANCEAND COUNSELING
The guidance counselors at HarrisCounty Carver Middle School are trained professionals who are committed tomeeting the ever-changing needs of the middle school child. They conductclassroom guidance and small-group activities to teach students the social andacademic resource skills they need to become confident and successful learners. They are also available for individual counseling sessions and parent/teacherconsultations to help students deal with personal or school-related problems.
The counselors are experienced inhelping students recognize their abilities, assess their needs, cope withacademic, social, and emotional challenges, and assist students in achievingtheir potential. The counselors also work with standardized testing, SST/504plans, orientation, registration, and many other school activities.
LOCKERS
Lockers are available for studentsto use during the school year. Lockers are distributed by the homeroomteacher during the first two weeks of school. Cost of the locker is $5.00which is an administrative fee to update combinations.
There are designated times for studentsto visit their locker. These times are determined by teachers, andstudents are to follow these designated times. Student may notshare lockers.
LOST AND FOUND
Items that are found that do notbelong to you should be turned in to the office. If you lose anythingwhile at school, please check your grade level office. Personal itemsshould have identification attached. Label all clothing, book bags, purses,etc. If the items are not claimed within five (5) days they are subjectto be donated to charity organizations.
PERSONALPROPERTY/MONEY AT SCHOOL
All items brought to school, of apersonal nature, should be clearly marked with the student’s name. Electronicdevices and expensive items should not be sent to school. Students should notbring excessive amounts of money to school. Bring only the amount ofmoney needed for a particular day. Keep any valuables with you or securedin your locker at all times. Students are encouraged to bring a lock in for thelockers in P.E. *Students assigned to PE class should not leave valuablesin the locker room (ex. Wallets, purses, watches, etc.). HCCMS isnot responsible for lost or misplaced items that are not properly secured withthe teacher.
STUDENTCOMPLAINTS
The Harris County Board of Educationrealizes that there may be conditions in the school system that needsimprovement and that student should have some means to effectively expresstheir concerns, which will be considered and handled with fairness. Students’ complaints shall be resolved through orderly processes and at thelowest possible level. However, the board shall provide channels foreventual hearing should circumstance dictate.
METHOD OF COMPLAINTS
Complaints shall be approached in the following manner:
A.The opportunity shall be provided any student or his/herparents to discuss with his/her teacher a decision or situation which he/sheconsiders unjust or unfair;
B.If the matter remains unresolved, the student or his/herparents, or the teacher, may bring the matter to the principal’s attention forhis consideration;
C.If the matter remains unresolved, it may be brought to theSuperintendent or a designee for his consideration;
D.Complaints that remain unresolved following any action bythe Superintendent may be referred in writing to the Board. The Board’sdecision, if it chooses to make one, shall be final.
COMPLAINT PROCEDURES
A.General
This procedure is established inorder to provide a formal method for the resolution of any complaint concerningthe treatment of students by system personnel who are alleged to violate eithersystem policy or student legal rights. These formal procedures should notbe used unless informal conferences with the appropriate teacher(s) andprincipal do not resolve the matter to the satisfaction of the complainant.
Any student or the parents of suchstudent may bring a complaint, whose rights under any system policy orapplicable law have allegedly been violated. However, when a complaint isbrought by a minor student, the parent(s) or guardian(s) must be a party to theproceedings.
Complaints should be settled asclose as possible to their point of origin. It is important thatcomplaints be settled quickly. The number of days specified on each levelshould be considered a maximum, but may be extended by mutual agreement. Student suspension and expulsion shall be addressed under policy JC as outlinedand not as a part of this process.
All hearings should be as informalas possible, but must be conducted in accordance with due process. Acomplainant may be represented by counsel and shall be allowed to introduce allrelevant evidence and to cross-examine adverse witnesses. A complainantwho chooses to be represented by counsel must give sufficient advance notice toenable the school system to likewise be represented. All decisions shallbe in writing, shall be confined to matters brought forth in the hearing, andshall state the facts and reasoning upon which they are based.
If mutual agreement cannot bereached, the complainant shall be given reasonable notice of the time and placefor the hearing. All such hearings shall be private unless thecomplainant declares the subject matter to be public and the Board chooses notto go into executive session. The system’s Title IX Coordinator shall beconsulted whenever sex discrimination is alleged in a formal complaint.
B.Level One – Principal
Complainants who cannot resolve amatter informally may submit a complaint in writing to the principal of theschool in which the complaint arose. All complaints must be submittedwithin ten school days after the date on which the action complained of hasoccurred. It must clearly state the system policies or student legalrights, which are alleged to have been violated.
A hearing may not be necessary atthis level because the principal may have become aware of all pertinentinformation through previous informal conferences. However, a hearingwill be held at the request of either the principal or the complainant. Such hearing shall be held within five school days after the complaint issubmitted unless a later date is mutually agreeable.
The principal shall render adecision within three school days after submission of the complaint or holdingof a hearing as appropriate. If the complainant is not satisfied with thedecision or if no decision is given within the allotted time, the complaint maybe taken to level two provided that notice of appeal is made within five schooldays.
C.Level Two – Superintendent
Complaints may be initiated at thislevel by the filing of timely notice of appeal with the Superintendent withinfive school days. Such notice must be in writing and accompanied bycopies of the original complaint and the decision if any, made at level one.
If the notice of appeal contains arequest for a hearing, or the Superintendent believes one to be necessary, ahearing shall be held within ten school days of such notice unless a later dateis agreeable to both parties. The Superintendent shall render a decisionwithin five school days of the notice of appeal or hearing asappropriate. If the complainant is not satisfied with the decision or ifno decision is given within the allotted time, the complaint may be taken tolevel three provided that notice of appeal is made within ten school days.
D.Level Three – Board of Education
The complainant may request ahearing before the Board by submitting timely notice of appeal with theSuperintendent within ten school days. Such notice shall be accompaniedby a copy of the original grievance and the decisions, if any, made at LevelsOne and Two. In addition, such notice shall contain a statement ofreasons why such decisions are unacceptable. If the Board chooses not tohear the appeal, the complainant will be so notified.
If the Board chooses to hear theappeal the complainant will be given reasonable notice of the time and place ofthe hearing. The Board will render a written decision within reasonabletime after such hearing.
E.Miscellaneous
This complaint procedure may be usedfor students under the gender discrimination provisions to Title IX, 20 USCA1681 et seq., in accordance with the regulations, 34 CFR 106.8 (b).
This complaint procedure may be usedfor students and parents in compliance with Steward B. McKinney HomelessAssistance Act of 1987 (P. O. 100-77), and Harris County board policy JBCD.2.
Any complaints regarding grades andchanges thereof shall be handled and processed under Policy IHAAA, GradeChanging.
STUDENTPLANNERS/AGENDAS
Agendas are issued to students atthe beginning of the school year. The agenda is to be used to recordhomework and any other important information. It is also an excellentcommunication tool between teachers and parents.
The agenda serves as a hall pass for the student when it is filled out and signed by a teacher.
The agenda is not to be altered in any manner, and it is not to be shared with other students.
Students must have their agenda every day and in every class.
Should the agenda get lost, stolen, or destroyed, replacement is at the expense of the student.
TELEPHONEUSAGE/ELECTRONIC DEVICES
School phones are for schoolbusiness and emergency use only.Students are not allowed to call home for assignments, PE clothes, etc. Urgentmessages can be left with a school secretary and will be delivered to students,if necessary. Phone messages must be received no later than 2:45 p.m.
During the academic day, studentsshall not use personal electronic communication devices of any kind, except forhealth or other unusual reasons which have been approved by the Harris CountyBoard of Education or by permission of a school administrator. The definitionfor electronic devices includes but is not limited to cell phones, pagers, PDAsand iPods. Loss or theft of personal electronic devices that are brought toschool is the sole responsibility of the student. Electronic devices shouldnot be turned on or be visible. If these devices are turned on or visible, theywill be confiscated from the student, turned into the office, returned to thestudent the first time and the parent’s will be called. After the first offensewarning, a charge of $5.00 will be required for the phone to be returned.Student unable to pay the fine may arrange one hour of after school communityservice through their grade level office as payment.
Unauthorized phone use (texting,taking pictures, etc.) may result in suspension.
VIDEOSURVEILLANCE
Having carefully weighed andbalanced the rights of privacy of student and staff against the District’s dutyto maintain order and discipline, the Board of Education has authorized the useof video camera surveillance in its transportation vehicles and on schoolgrounds. The use of video recordings from surveillance equipment shall besubject to the other policies of the District including policies concerning theconfidentiality of student and personnel records. Video surveillanceshall only be used to promote the order, safety, and security of students,staff and property.
To provide a safe environment at themiddle schools closed-circuit video cameras have been installed in allhallways, the lunchroom, and the gym to monitor students. The MediaCenter now has a security system to protect its contents and additionalportable radios are available for administrators in case their use is needed toprotect the student body. The metal detectors will be used when there isreasonable doubt or suspicion that a student is carrying a potentially harmfulobject. This safety equipment has been provided to our school by theState Department of Education under the Governors “Safe Schools Program”.
Videotapes will be reviewed byfaculty for identification of rule or safety infractions randomly on a needbasis and any such time as deemed necessary by the administration. Anymisconduct will be reported to the office in writing for necessaryaction. If the videotape identifies individuals and/or groups committingsome major rule or safety infraction that has been otherwise unreported, theadministration may use professional judgment and discretion in determiningappropriate consequences.
WATERBOTTLES AND OTHER DRINKS
Water bottles and other drinks arenot allowed in classrooms. Medical exceptions can be made by the administrationonly.
MEDIACENTER
The HCCMS Media Center is openMonday through Friday from 7:50a.m. until dismissal. Books may be checkedout for a definite period of time with fees charged for lost or damagedbooks. Students who owe media fees may continue to have access tothe media center materials but will not be allowed to check outadditional materials. Three times a year report cards will be held untilstudents clear up their library medic transactions, that is, until overduematerials are returned and/or the fines paid. Late charges are $.05 (fivecents) per each school day. The last day of circulation during the schoolyear is two weeks before the last day of school. No books/materials maybe checked out over summer vacation. Students are encouraged to visit thepublic library and continue reading during the summer months. SummerReading Lists are provided for grades 6 – 8. The lists emphasize avariety of books to encourage the joy of reading and life-long learning. Daily reading for pleasure is part of the middle school’s curriculum andphilosophy.
If you lose or damage media centerbooks, you must pay the replacement cost. The same policy applies to anyother media center materials checked out which are lost.
STUDENT HEALTH/SAFETY
EMERGENCYEVACUATION
In the event of an emergencyevacuation of the school building, students will follow the direction given bytheir teachers. Students will leave their classroom in an orderly fashionand move quickly to their designated areas under the supervision of theirteachers.
FIREAND TORNADO DRILLS
The school will conduct several fireand tornado drills during the school year. These drills will not beannounced. Therefore, students should assume that there is thepossibility of a fire or a tornado whenever the alarm is sounded. Studentsshould remain calm and follow the directions of their teacher to ensure thesafety of everyone in the school.
FOODALLERGIES
Students with food allergies musthave written documentation from their physician in order to omit a food itemfrom their lunch tray. Documentation must be in the student’s permanent folder.Students who are not drinking milk with their meal due to a documented allergymay bring a drink from home, or in some cases a juice can be provided. Thesestudents and those who bring a lunch from home may bring what they are going todrink in a thermos or unbreakable container.
**Breakable containers and softdrinks in their original containers are not allowed.
HEADLICE
Head lice occur in almost everyschool throughout Georgia. They are contagious and can be transmittedfrom one student to another. Students who are found to have head lice areimmediately isolated from others. If a second case of lice is discovered,parents must present a certificate of treatment from the Health Departmentbefore the student may return to school.
HEALTHRECORDS
All health records of the student,including immunization records, will be kept in the student’s permanent folderin the main office. Law requires the immunization certificate issued bythe Georgia Department of Human Resources for all students.
INSURANCE
The Harris County Board of Educationmakes available an insurance program for students at a minimal cost.
Primary insurance is providedthrough a school authorized insurance company for students who would like thecoverage. The two choices of this insurance are:
1.School day coverage – from the timethe bus picks you up until you arrive at home.
2.24 hour coverage – 12 months.
Cheerleaders, football, basketball,soccer, volleyball and other sport athletes must provide signed evidence thatthey are covered by adequate insurance in lieu of purchasing school insurance.
MEDICATIONINFORMATION
If a student must receive medicineat school, certain procedures will be followed. Before anymedication can be administered, the proper form must be completed. These forms are located in the administrator’s offices, on the website and theback to school packet offorms.
Oral Medication in Schools
If exceptional circumstances existwherein a child is required to take prescription medication during school hoursand the parent cannot be at school to administer the medication, only theprincipal or his designee may administer medication in compliance with thefollowing regulations:
1.Written instructions signed by theparent shall always be required and shall include:
a.students’ name
b.name of medication
c.time medication is to beadministered
d.required dosage
e.list of possible side effects ofmedication
f.termination date for administeringthe medication, and
g.other information which may berequested of the parent by the principal or the principal’s designee.
2.The principal or his/her designeeshall:
a.inform appropriate school personnelto the use of medication
b.keep a written record of theadministering of medication
c.keep the medication in a lockedcabinet or drawer at all times when not being administered; and
d.return any unused medicationdirectly to the parent.
3.The parent(s) of the student mustassume responsibility for informing the principal’s designee of any change inthe child’s health or change in medication.
4.The school district retains theright and discretion to reject requests for the
administering of medication for any good and sufficientcause.
5.No medication shall be administeredat school unless a current Medical Authorization and Release form has beencompleted and signed by the student’s parent or guardian.
6.The principal or his/her designeeshall follow the instructions provided on the Medical Authorization and Releaseform, a copy of which is (JGCD-E) incorporated by reference to this policy.
7.A copy of this policy will beprovided to parent(s) upon their request.
Students With Asthma
If a student has been diagnosed withasthma and has been prescribed asthma medication, the student mayself-administer the prescription asthma medication if all of the provisionslisted below are met:
1.Completion of the MedicalAuthorization and Release Form;
2.Completion of the Physician’sStudent Statement Form which includes:
a.name and purpose of medication
b.the prescribed dosage
c.the time(s) or special circumstancesfor administration of the medication
d.written authorization from theparent(s) or guardian(s) for the school to seek emergency medical treatment forthe student when necessary and appropriate.
Overthe Counter Medication
Students cannot be in possession ofover the counter medication. ALL medication MUST beadministered through the nurse’s office. Students in possession of over thecounter medications at school will face disciplinary consequences. A signedpermission form must be on file in the nurse’s office giving permission for thestudent to take any over the counter medication.
VISITORS
Any visitor to the school or schoolgrounds must report to the main entrance area as they enter the building for avisitor’s pass which should be worn at all times during the visit. Visitorsshould leave the school grounds after their business is completed. Parents are encouraged to visit our classrooms and to have lunch with us. If you plan to eat lunch with us, please call in advance so that our cafeteriawill expect you. Students may not have unauthorized visitors in class.
CURRICULUM/ASSESSMENT
CHARACTEREDUCATION
In an effort to develop well-roundedstudents at HCCMS character education will be taught throughout the school yearby all teachers. Character traits to be studied are as follows:
Courtesy School Pride Tolerance Loyalty Punctuality
SelfControl Fairness Kindness Cleanliness Respect for the Environment
Virtue Sportsmanship Compassion Cheerfulness Respect for the Creator
Patience Respect for Others
COACH’SCORNER/HOMEWORK
It is expected that assignedhomework will be turned by the assigned due date. Ten points per day willbe deducted from the final grade for each day late. Coach’s Corner is a “safetynet” for those occasions when assignments are forgotten or misplaced. Studentsmay be assigned to “Coach’s Corner” on Friday mornings from 7:30am – 9:00am tomake up missing work. Students assigned to Coach’s Corner may be placed onacademic probation. Parents will be notified and students may be assigned tomorning detention and lose social lunch privileges for a minimum of one week. Late or incomplete work should not become habitual or a pattern ofbehavior. Students that abuse this support tool may be denied Coach’s Cornerprivileges. 8th Graders do not have Coach’s Corner privileges duringthe second semester.
CURRICULUM
Course offerings include academiccore subjects and Connections classes. Academics are taught by a team ofteachers and include language arts/reading, mathematics, science, and socialstudies. Academic classes are 60 minutes and Connection classes are 55minutes.
Connection courses last nine (9)weeks and or up to a full year (band, chorus adv. art and adv. drama.). They introduce students to a variety of topics and other interests. Connection courses include art, band, chorus, keyboarding, drama, math skills,career explorations, and introductory foreign language courses. During theschool year, students are required to take one nine weeks course in health andone semester of physical education per Harris County Board of Education policy.
Connection classes are not issued byrequest. Classes are assigned as available to provide broad experiences.
Art – Art isdesigned to give students an opportunity to explore the visual arts in greaterdetail. The students will learn to express themselves visually andverbally as well as improve creative thinking skills. Students willcreate works in four areas: printmaking, drawing, painting, and sculpture.
Band – Studentsare enrolled in band for the entire year in place of other connectionsclasses. Students enrolled in band will attend festival and performancesfor various audiences. Costs related to these trips will be funded byparticipants.
Careers - Studentsexplore the world of work through the study of various vocations andprofessions.
Math Skills-Students work to reinforce and build math skills.
Chorus – The chorusprogram helps train and develops young voices while learning and performingage-
appropriate music. Chorusactivities include festivals, concerts, and performances for a variety ofaudiences throughout the year. Costs related to chorus trips will befunded by participants.
Business Education – Students are taught to use the computer as a tool forlearning, communication, and
presentation. Applicationsinclude keyboarding, word processing, databases, spreadsheets, and more.
Film Making – 7th Grade: This course willteach students about film, the elements of film, how film impacts our society,how a film is conceptualized and developed, how to create a storyboardfor a film, How film represents various cultures of the world, and the rolesand responsibilities of the various jobs in the film industry. 8thGrade: This course will teach students How to use a video camera andvideo editing equipment, how to turn a storyboard into a film, and to use theseskills in actual film production.
Foreign Language – 7th Grade: Mexican studies withan emphasis on Spanish language and the Mayan and Aztec civilizations.
8th Grade: Roman/Greco studies with an emphasis on Latin root words,mythology, and the beginnings of Rome and Greek civilizations.
Music Appreciation – During a nine-week music appreciation course, studentslearn about the origin of music and playing instruments. They study avariety of music and the people involved in creating and performingmusic. Students use computers to creatively present what they learn aboutcomposers or current performers.
Health – Units on human growth and development, family lifeeducation, drug abuse, personality development, safety, and nutrition are allpart of the curriculum. Each student is expected to complete a minimum ofthirty contact hours each year (one nine weeks).
Physical Education – PE offers students a wide variety of instruction inphysical development. Students participate in daily activities includingteam and individual sports, games, and physical fitness programs. Eachstudent is expected to complete a minimum of sixty contact hours each year (twonine weeks).
Study Skills- Students identify their learning style, methods oforganization, effective note taking, study skills and test taking strategies.
Technology Education – Technology Education is an integrated discipline designedto develop technical literacy as part of all students’ fundamental education. In middle school, the goal is an orientation program that allows students toexplore the systems of communication, production, energy, power,transportation, and bio-related technology.
ELT
ELT stands for Extended LearningTime. This is the extra time added to the school day for Middle Schoolsas required by the state of Georgia to provide enrichment and remediation asneeded during the course of the academic school day. Students willreceive enrichment reading, SRA reading, writing or math skills instructiondepending on their test scores and/or teacher recommendation. A student’sELT teacher or class may be re-assigned if necessary, depending on his/herneeds.
FIELDTRIPS
Field trips are an educationalopportunity for students to experience activities outside of the classroom andaway from campus. They are arranged by team teachers and developed aroundthe grade level curriculum. Permission slips are required to be signed bya parent or guardian. If the trip requires a fee, it is the responsibilityof the parents to cover their child’s expense.
GIFTEDEDUCATION
There are teachers trained to work with gifted students foreach grade level. Gifted students are encouraged to work bothcooperatively and independently to further enhance their education. TheHarris County Board of Education recognizes the need to provide giftededucation services to students who have the potential for exceptional academicachievement in grades K-12.
A gifted student is one whodemonstrates a high degree of intellectual, creative and/or artistic ability(ies), posses exceptional leadership skills, or excels in specific academicfields and who needs special instruction and/or special ancillary services toachieve at levels commensurate with his or her abilities.
The Harris County Board of Educationprovides a differentiated curriculum for gifted students which consist ofcourses of study in which the content, teaching strategies and expectations ofstudent mastery have been adjusted to be appropriate for gifted students.
A student may be referred forconsideration for gifted educational services by teachers, counselors,administrators, parents or guardians, peers, self and other individuals withknowledge of the student’s abilities. Students who score at specifiedlevels established by the Harris County Board of Education on a norm referencedtest shall be automatically referred for determination of eligibility forgifted services. (IDDD.1)
TheGeorgia Board of Education has set two (2) standards of eligibility.
A student may qualify by meeting mental ability and achievement criteria.
A student may also qualify by meeting three (3) of the four (4) criteria: mental ability, achievement, creativity, and motivation.
Parents and guardians will benotified and afforded an opportunity for a conference to discuss studenteligibility requirements. Any test score approved by Harris CountySchools used to establish eligibility shall be applicable for two (2) calendaryears. Any student who has met the state eligibility criteria for giftededucation in another Georgia public school system shall be considered eligibleto receive gifted education services by Harris County Schools. A studenttransferring from a Georgia public system to Harris County Schools shall meetthe criteria for continuation of gifted services established by the HarrisCounty Board of Education. Harris County Schools shall not recognizegifted eligibility established in another state.
Written consent for testing shall beobtained from parents or guardians of students being considered for giftedservices. Parents or guardians also must provide written consent beforestudents determined to be eligible for gifted education services can receivethese services.
Students must meet specific criteriaestablished by the board of education to continue to receive giftedservices. By not meeting the continuation criteria, students may beplaced on probation and removed from the program.
*See Subject Area Fair forinformation on Gifted participation
For a summary of eligibilitycriteria or for further information about the Harris County Gifted Program,please contact: Reba Dyer – Gifted Program Coordinator at theHarris County Board of Education. The phone number is (706) 628-4206
GRADINGSYSTEM
The following is the grading scaleused by Harris County Schools:
90 – 100 =A 80 – 89 =B 70 – 79 =C 69 – Below = F
Incomplete: Students receiving an incomplete on their report cardmust make up the work within fourteen (14) calendar days after the close ofeach semester.
Harris County-Carver Middle School recognizes Honor Roll students each nineweeks. To be named to the Honor Roll, a student must have an average of:
Scholar: AllA’s (90-100) in everysubject
Honor: All A’s and B’s in every subject
Any student who makes the Honor Rollthree consecutive times during the year will be honored at an Honor’s Programat the end of the year. Students enrolled for less than twenty days willnot receive a progress report/report card.
HONORSPROGRAM
Harris County Carver Middle Schoolis committed to recognizing students who excel in all areas includingacademics, community service, and extracurricular activities. Honorsprograms will be held for each grade level at the conclusion of the schoolyear. Teams informally celebrate student success each nine weeks. Theathletic department will hold an awards program for achievements in athleticcompetitions each semester for each sport.
INTERDISCIPLINARYTEAMING
Harris County-Carver Middle Schoolpractices interdisciplinary teaming. An interdisciplinary team is a groupof teachers who teach the same group of students. These teachers willplan their students’ lessons so that the information learned in one class isrelated to the information in all of the other core classes.
NOCHILD LEFT BEHIND
The No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Actof 2001 contains provisions regarding teacher quality. The new provisionsrequire all educators in core academic areas to be licensed by the state, holda degree, and demonstrate competence in their subject area by the end of2005-2006 school year.
Based on the NCLB Act of 2001, inregard to the teacher quality provisions, parents of children who attendschools receiving Title I funds may request pertinent information about theirchild’s teacher and paraprofessional. The information includes: (1)completion of state requirements for certification; (2) emergency or otherprovisional status; (3) educational background; and (4) if paraprofessional(s)are serving the child, the qualifications of the paraprofessional(s).
The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB)holds schools accountable for all students achieving high standards. Thelaw requires that all states set specific, measurable goals for students andthat standardized test scores be reported separately for all differentsubgroups in the school, including various racial and ethnic groups,economically disadvantaged students, and students with disabilities. If aschool meets the annual goals for all students and each individualsubgroup, then it makes “Adequate Yearly Progress” or AYP.
Currently, Georgia requires that aminimum of 73.3% of students meet or exceed standards in Reading and LanguageArts and at least 66.70% of students meet or exceed standards in Math on theCriterion Referenced Competency Test (CRCT). In addition to the abovecriteria, the NCLB Act mandates that a minimum of 95% of all students take allsections of the CRCT and that not more that 15% of students are absent from school15 or more days during the year. If a school fails to meet allof the requirements for the whole student population or one of the individualsubgroups, it is identified as “Needs Improvement”.
PROGRESSREPORTS
A progress report is sent home withthe student at the midpoint of each nine (9) weeks. It is to be signed bythe parent and returned to the homeroom teacher within 3 days. A studentmust be enrolled for a period of at least 20 school days within a gradingperiod in order to receive a report.
PROMOTIONREQUIREMENTS
Students in grades seventh andeighth must pass Language Arts and Math AND three out of the fourremaining subjects (Reading, Science, Social Studies and Health) in order to bepromoted to the next grade. Students in the 8th gradewill also be required to pass the Reading and Math portion of the CRCT in orderto be promoted to high school. Students who are absent from school 16 ormore days shall be retained in his/her present grade. If a student meetsall Board approved promotion criteria and exceeds the maximum allowed absencesfrom school due to hardship and/or extenuating circumstances, an appeal may befiled. (Please see Board Policies: IHE and JBD. All Harris County BOE policiesare available on-line at www.harris.k12.ga.usor in the Media Center at the school.)
REPORTCARDS
A report card is sent home with thestudent at the end of each nine (9) weeks. It is to be signed by theparent and returned to the homeroom teacher within 3 days. A student must beenrolled for a period of at least 20 school days within a grading period inorder to receive a report.
SEXEDUCATION
HCCMS teaches abstinence. Asrequired by state law, any parent or legal guardian of a child to whom SexEducation Instruction is taught shall have the right to elect, in writing, thattheir child is not to receive such course of study. Parents mayreview the sex education and AIDS prevention instructional objectives beforemaking this decision. These materials are kept in the media center. Students who, due to written request by parent or guardian, do not participatein these classes will be given alternative assignments to complete in theschool’s media center.
SPECIALEDUCATION – IDEA
Harris County-Carver Middle Schoolis eager to meet the educational needs of all students. A variety ofspecial education services are offered in a variety of delivery models to meetthe needs of identified special education students. All services are offeredin compliance with the guidelines of the Individuals with DisabilitiesEducation Act (IDEA). For further information, contact Mrs. Betty Dunlap,Coordinator of Federal Programs, at (706)628-4206.
STUDENTSUPPORT TEAM (SST)
The Student Support Team is aninterdisciplinary group of professionals, which may include teachers,administrators, counselors, special education teachers, and/or schoolpsychologist. SST is a part of all Harris County schools and its purposeis to help students who are experiencing academic, behavioral, or emotionaldifficulties in school. The team meets to identify, plan, evaluate, andrecommend alternative instructional strategies in an attempt to provide themost effective learning experience for each child. The team may evaluate thestudent’s academic records, conduct observations, and administer standardizedachievement or ability tests if needed. Parents will be notified inwriting that their child has been referred to the Student Support Team. They will be invited to attend all SST meetings concerning their child, andparental permission must be granted before any testing is done.
SYLLABUS
Each teacher will prepare a syllabusfor each class providing long and short-range goals and objectives. Themethods of grading, the frequency of homework with its purposes, the weight oftests, and projects to be done will be addressed in each syllabus. Thesyllabus for each class will be given to students during the first week ofschool or the 1st week of a new Connection class.
TESTING
All standardized testing, both groupand individual, is coordinated through the guidance office. A copy of eachstudent’s test results will be sent home. The counselor is available to answerany questions regarding standardized tests.
TEXTBOOKS
Textbooks are issued to the studentsat the beginning of the school year. Fines will be charged for anystate loaned book that shows unnecessary wear or for books that are lost. Students are required to cover the books 5 DAYS AFTER ISSUE to protectthem. Upon receiving a book, students should make a list of all damagesthat are visible so that they will not be charged for existing damages.
Students will be charged a fee of$5.00 for minor damage and $10.00 for major damage to textbooks.
Students will be charged the full costof those textbooks that are lost or damaged beyond repair.
PARENTPORTAL
Parent Portal is a convenienthome-to-school collaboration tool which allows parents to enhance theirinvolvement by keeping track of their children’s progress-online-via an easy touse Web site customized for your school. Parents can register on theParent Portal after contacting the school registrar in the main office.
PARTNERSIN EDUCATION
Harris County Carver Middle Schoolworks hand-in-hand with its partners to: provide for enrichingexperiences for students, improve academic performance, grow careeropportunities and provide for faculty development. If your business would liketo become a Partner in Education, please call Mrs. Carlisle.
The School Advisory Council/SchoolImprovement Committee is a cross-sectional group of people from the communityand school who meet once a month to discuss school-related information. Each school in Harris County has a SAC/SIC that is composed of between sevenand fifteen faculty, staff and parents from that school. The principalwill serve as the chairperson of the group.
The SAC/PIC shall establishprocesses and procedures to develop positive communication between the variousgroups in the school community, students, parents, teachers, staff,administrators, businesses, elderly citizens, and neighborhoodorganizations. It will work in partnership with the school to helpguarantee a successful school experience for every student. It will setgoals and develop improvement plans for the school.
SCHOOLCOUNCIL
GeorgiaH.B. 1187 – THE A+ REFORM ACT OF 2000 mandates the establishment of SchoolCouncils in Georgia public schools. The stated purpose for the creationof School Councils is to significantly impact the improvement of studentachievement. Each local School Council will be charged with the role toprovide advice and recommendations, and to assist and represent the communityof parents and businesses. School Councils at each school will also have theopportunity to influence and promote community support and involvement.
Members will be comprised of twoteachers employed at the school, two local business members, and two parentswho musthave a student(s) enrolled in the school.
Council meetings shall be called andconducted in accordance with law. A secretary shall be selected andwritten minutes produced. Copies of the minutes shall be forwarded to theSuperintendent. The Superintendent will make them available to the HarrisCounty Board of Education.
HARRISCOUNTY SCHOOLS IMAGE PERMISSION, INTERNET USE AND
COMPUTER/CCCAGREEMENT
(Thisform must be completed and returned before student may use computers)
STUDENT: I understand and will abide by theAcceptable Internet Use Policy and CC guidelines for Harris County Schoolsoutlined in the Student-Parent Handbook. I further understand that anyviolation of these regulations is unethical and may constitute a criminaloffense. Should I commit any violation, my access or use privileges maybe revoked and school disciplinary action and/or legal action may betaken. While using any Computer/CCC Modules I will NOT alter,disassemble, change or modify any component in the software. I will useComputers/CCC Modules in the way the vendor and my teacher intend to gainmaximum benefit for these computerized resources. The use of the Internetis a privilege, not a right and inappropriate use will result in a cancellationof those privileges. (Each student who receives a CCC password shallparticipate in an orientation with a faculty member pertaining to the properuse of the CCC Modules.)
PARENT: As a parent or guardian of thisstudent, I have read the Acceptable Internet Use Policy and the policiesregarding use of computers and CCC for Harris County Schools outlined in theStudent-Parent Handbook. I understand that my signature grants permissionfor my child’s image and/or work to be used as stated in the Use of StudentImage and Student Work policy. I understand that the Internetaccess and Computer/CCC use is designed for educational purposes onlyand that Harris County Schools have taken precautions to eliminatecontroversial materials. However, I also recognize it is impossible forHarris County Schools to restrict access to all controversial materials, and Iwill not hold them responsible for materials acquired on the internet. Further, I accept full responsibility for supervision if and when my child’s useis not in a school setting. I hereby give permission for my child to usethe Internet and the Computer/CCC. I certify that the informationcontained on this form is correct. I further understand that an attemptby my adolescent to alter, disassemble, change or modify any component in thesoftware will result in the appropriate disciplinary-actions outlined in theStudent-Parent Handbook.
I DO NOT give my child,__________________________ permission to join the following club(s) that I haveinitialed on the list below.
Listed below are the clubs that wesponsor at HCCMS:
(Please initials next to the club(s)your student does not have your permission to join.)
Club
___ AllClubs ___ 4-H ____ Fit Club
___ ArtClub ___Velocity ____ Leadership Club
___Drama ___ County ChristiansClub ___ ABC Club
___ Jr.Beta ___ YCWA ___ Academic Team
___FitClub ___LeadershipClub ___Pep Club
___GardenClub ___Student Council(elected) ___Chess/Game Club
___ PeerHelpers ___TechyTigers ___Math Team
___School Spirit Scrapbooking
Returning this form signed by parentand not initialing any of the above listed clubs, allows your studentpermission to participate in any or all clubs.
In order to provide the mosteffective drug and violence prevention resources and/or activities for yourchild, the Title IV Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Program collectssurvey information from students at various grade levels during the schoolyear. The survey will take approximately 20 minutes to complete, istotally anonymous and voluntary, students have the right to “opt out”, and asksthe responses that pertain to student involvement in substance abuse, violentsituations, school climate and nutrition.
The data collected will be used toidentify critical areas of need for our Safe and Drug-Free Schools efforts. Survey analysis of this data provides information/data that:
ØMeets the No Child Left Behind TitleIV mandated data collection requirements;
ØAssists in the maintenance of aschool environment that is free of drugs and violence;
ØPromotes a classroom atmosphere thatallows teachers to teach and students to learn; and
ØDevelops and offers experiences thatinvolve students in applying the concepts of making healthy decisions,accepting responsibility for behaviors, and understanding consequences.
Our desire is to involve parents inthe education of their children. If you do not wish foryour child to participate in this important activity, please sign this form by Friday,August 13, 2010.
DONOT return this form if your child can participate in this survey.
Pleasesign this form by Friday, August 13, 2010only if you do not wish yourchild to participate.
I would prefer that my child NOTparticipate in the Safe and Drug-Free Schools Survey.
