Student Handbook 2019-2020 

WARREN COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOL 

 200 Caldwell Street • McMinnville, TN 37110 • (931) 473-6557 or 473-6558 • Fax (931) 473-2432 

Dear Parents & Students:

Welcome to Warren County Middle School, one of the finest middle schools in the state of Tennessee!  Since its inception in 1994, WCMS students have been highly successful in attaining high levels of learning, and also have excelled in many extracurricular activities and sports.  Whether you are returning to WCMS as a 7th or 8th grader, or if this is your first year as a 6th grader or a new student, we encourage you to welcome the opportunity to continue the “Tradition of Excellence” at this extraordinary school.

We want you to have a wonderful experience during your time here at WCMS.  You will learn to respond to high expectations set by your teachers, and as a result you will achieve success as you never have before.  Students are expected to give their best effort each and every day as everyone works together to prepare you to be successful in ALL of your academic classes.  Our teachers and staff are many of the best educators in Warren County, and they are here to help you do whatever it takes to succeed. They will spend a tremendous amount of time with you to assist you in “learning” but YOU must provide the effort and determination required to succeed.

Parents, we encourage you to stay involved in your child’s education by encouraging them to read daily, making sure their homework and assignments are complete, and by insisting that they are in school each and every day.  Insist that your child remains in school all day, not checking out during the day to leave unless it is an absolute necessity. Please make every effort to make doctor’s/dentist’s appointments after school whenever possible.  We need your child in class in order to receive the proper instruction needed to master the curriculum.

In this assignment book you will find important handbook information pertaining to our middle school.  Please read all items carefully. All students are responsible for knowing the contents of the handbook.  After reading the handbook, parents and students should sign the form included in the registration packet indicating that you have reviewed the handbook.  After signing, please return to your homebase teacher. As a middle school student, you are responsible for your own behavior. We want to make sure that you know and understand the high expectations set forth by your teachers and staff at WCMS.

 

Respectfully,

Gerald Tidwell

WCMS Principal

WARREN COUNTY MIDDLE SCHOOL HANDBOOK

MISSION STATEMENT

One Team, One Goal, High Levels of Learning for ALL!

MIDDLE SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY

The faculty of Warren County Middle School believes that middle school children have special needs and interests that must be met if a love of learning - lifelong learning - is to take place. We believe that our school environment must be student-centered and must provide a structured, orderly place for learning. We recognize the critical role of the middle school in the development of the total person. 

We believe that a broad-based, child-centered curriculum designed to cater to the uniqueness of the early adolescent is a necessity. We further believe that the faculty and staff must develop a child-centered attitude that will allow children to search for answers to life’s questions.

We believe that fundamentals - reading, study skills, thinking skills - must be stressed if a child is to become academically capable. We believe that physical education and related arts classes must happen daily if a child is to become physically and mentally sound. We believe that extracurricular activities must be encouraged if a child is to become socially confident. We believe in the enhancement of each student’s self-esteem if a child is to become personally secure. 

We believe that through the acquisition of skills and knowledge, each child can be assured the opportunity of attaining his or her greatest potential. By fostering good citizenship and a strong sense of self-worth, each child can be assured the opportunity of attaining a sense of belonging. 

We maintain that with the decline in the social and moral fabric of our society, the hope for the future of our children is a cooperative effort among the school, the home, and the community. 

We believe that ultimately it is our responsibility to provide a supportive, positive emotional climate in which students can learn. We believe that every child can learn and that every child can make a valuable contribution to the learning environment and to our greater society.

MIDDLE SCHOOL CONCEPT

We are committed to understanding and meeting the needs of early adolescents. As we examine, develop, and implement programs, activities, and practices, we strive to make them developmental and age-appropriate. As a result, we will work toward incorporating the following recognized components of exemplary middle schools.

- A staff which is knowledgeable about and committed to the early adolescent.

- Interdisciplinary Team Organization.

- An Advisor/Advisee Program (through a student’s homeroom teacher)

- An Exploratory Program (Related Arts Classes)

- A curriculum based on the needs and characteristics of early adolescents.

- A wide variety of instructional strategies.

- A flexible master schedule.

- An emphasis on heterogeneous grouping with opportunities to group and regroup students within the class.

- The inclusion and collaborative model of special education.

- Administrators who are knowledgeable about and committed to middle school philosophy, programs,  

   and practices.

MIDDLE SCHOOL TERMS

A.R. Grade A grade students receive, based on the number of points they have accumulated by 

                                    reading accelerated reader books each 9 weeks.

ASI After School Instruction (3:00 - 4:15 pm)

D.E.A.R Drop Everything And Read.  Students do this daily for 20-25 minutes during the day.

HOMEBASE            The first class every student attends each morning where attendance is taken.  During this time students will recite the Pledge of Allegiance, recognize a moment of silence, and hear the morning announcements.   

I.C.U. Intensive Care Unit (for grades).  Open during PE/Related Arts classes.

MIDDLE SCHOOL A school designed for the special needs of 6th, 7th, and 8th graders.

RELATED ARTS Classes which may include art, computers, teen living, technology ed., study skills, Lab, RTI (Math and ELA), ACT prep, etc.

SSI Saturday School Instruction (8-11 am)

TEAM A group between 85-150 students who share the same teachers and classes.

TEAM LEADER The teacher who organizes team activities and acts as the lead teacher.

TEAM MEETING A time when teachers, as a team, meet to discuss students’ needs and plan team and class activities.

WCMS SCHOOL ZONE REQUIREMENTS

All incoming 6th grade students to Warren County Middle School must live within the WCMS Zone, unless their parents are teachers within the Warren County School System .  Anyone unsure of what zone they live in can call Durham Bus Service (473-8013) with an address to determine which zone they are in. Below is important information involving the WCMS zoning requirements that have been implemented due to increased class sizes and overall enrollment figures:

1. All student addresses will be checked closely at registration to verify students are in fact in the WCMS zone.

2. If a student does not live with their parent or legal guardian in the WCMS zone, they will not be allowed to attend WCMS.

3. When an in zone student moves out of zone during the fall semester, the student will be allowed to continue attending WCMS until the end of the fall semester before having to transfer to the new school they are zoned for.  If a student moves out of zone during the 2nd semester of school they will be allowed to continue attending WCMS until the end of the school year.

4. Proof of residency can be proven by:

   1. A utility or electric bill that is dated within 60 days of the school enrollment date

   2. A lease agreement for a family who is renting their place of residency

INTRODUCTION 

This handbook is designed to help you, as students and parents, prepare for the year. We believe that your full potential can only be realized in an environment that is safe and orderly, with each student taking responsibility for his or her actions. We expect only the best from our students, and we will continue to strive for excellence in all our programs. Please read this handbook carefully, and if you have any questions concerning rules and policies, do not hesitate to discuss them with your teacher or the administration. 

HOMEWORK ORGANIZER PURPOSE

The purpose of this homework organizer is to help students become better organized. An organized student will do better in school. It is human nature that we try to remember too much; and the more we try to remember, the more we are apt to forget. It will be the student’s responsibility to take this to every class, every day. It is important to use this organizer daily as a tool or resource. As you do, you will find yourself spending less time trying to remember what it is that you are supposed to be doing each night after school. 

TIPS FOR USING YOUR HOMEWORK ORGANIZER: 

…As soon as any assignment is given, write it down on the dated page in the appropriate section.

....As soon as you complete the assignment, put a check in the box that follows each assignment. 

....If you have been absent, schedule your make-up work into your schedule. 

....Bring this book to school and class each and every day.

….The handbook is required and used as a hall pass. 

THE ACADEMIC PROGRAM

All students will have the following core subjects: 

- English (literature/reading/writing) 110 minutes

- Math (different levels of instruction) 55 minutes

- Science 55 minutes

- Social Studies 55 minutes

Other or additional classes will be assigned by the Administrative staff based on need and availability.

Each student will be assigned to a “Team.” This team will serve as your child’s teachers in all academic         

areas.

READING RENAISSANCE: D.E.A.R. TIME

The “READING RENAISSANCE” Program consists of several components. The “Accelerated Reader” Program has been the cornerstone of our reading program since becoming a middle school in 1994. The “STAR” component implemented in the fall of 1999 identifies each student’s reading level for prescriptive purposes. 

Implemented Fall, 2000, “D.E.A.R. TIME”: “Drop Everything and Read” is based on the belief that good readers become great readers by reading. Twenty minutes has been built into the master schedule each day to provide an uninterrupted time for students to READ. They will be given options for their personal selections, with an emphasis placed on ACCELERATED READER books. This is not a study hall or a time for reading instruction, as students will have a regular reading class each day in addition to “D.E.A.R. Time.” This silent reading time will be in addition to the prescribed 20 minutes each night that we ask every student to do.

The impressive research on schools that have implemented this sustained silent reading time cite a rise in library circulation by as much as 150%, impressive growth on standardized reading tests, as well as significant improvement in student reading habits.  Beginning in the 2019-20 school year we will be implementing “Advisory Fridays” during D.E.A.R. Time. This will provide an opportunity for teachers to create their own 20 minutes lessons for their students in order to build strong student/teacher relationships.  We want each student to fill they have a teacher that will serve as their advocate anytime they may need an adult to assist them with matters during the school day.

RELATED ARTS (EXPLORATORY PROGRAM)

As a part of the middle school program, students will be assigned different related arts/exploratory courses that will enrich and enhance the regular academic program. Students will participate in these programs in two, 55-minute segment blocks. One of these segments will include a physical education program for all students every day. (If the student participates in band, this will substitute for physical education.) The other segment will consist of the following: Art, Computer, Library, and Study Skills/ACT Prep. In addition to the above, the 7th and 8th grades will also have Technology Education, Computer Applications, and Teen Living.   

ICU PROGRAM

WCMS implemented a new remediation program during the 2012-2013 school year called “ICU”.  The letters stand for the same thing they do in a hospital, Intensive Care Unit, but in our school setting it refers to a student’s grades.  A student is sent to ICU when their classroom grade suffers due to a missed assignment, poor performance on an assignment or test, or due to not comprehending the curriculum being taught in the classroom.  ICU can take place during homeroom, lunch, PE, Band and Related Arts classes. Our priority is on student learning, therefore, our ICU program will take precedence over anything offered outside of regular academic core curriculum.   It is important that ICU is not viewed as punishment but as a great opportunity to make sure that students who fall behind, in any academic area, are given the time and assistance they need to catch-up with their work.

RTI2

RTI2 stands for “Response to Intervention & Instruction”.  It is a state mandated program designed to assist students who may need extra time and assistance in developing their academic skills.  The RTI program has 3 tiered levels at WCMS. Tier I is the regular classroom instruction that every student in the school receives by the classroom teacher.  Tier II instruction is for students who have fallen a little behind and have not learned at the same rate as their peers.  Instead of being left behind, these students are given at least an additional 30 minutes of instruction from an intervention teacher.  This instruction is given in small groups of approximately six-ten students. Tier III is for students who have fallen behind and need more than an extra half hour to get caught up.  Tier III students receive an additional 60 minutes of additional instruction from an intervention teacher.  This instruction is usually given in small groups of three or less. It is important to note that since RTI2 is mandated by the state of Tennessee, parents do not have the option of their child being excused from Tier II/III instruction if it is proven to be needed.  The following explains how student’s are placed in RTI, what an RTI class is like, and how decisions are made for student to enter/exit the program:

Students take what is called a universal screen (assessment) in the fall, winter, and spring to give the school data on how the student is performing regarding their reading and math skills.  Typically each team meets monthly with the RTI interventionists to look at this data, along with previous benchmarks, grades, attendance, etc. to identify students that may be behind their peers academically.  Students who fall below the 25th percentile (tier II) and 10th percentile (tier III) are referred to the RTI interventionists.

RTI classes are small group settings which allow students to get additional help in the area in which they are struggling.  Teachers use researched based interventions that are designed to help struggling students overcome their difficulty in Reading and or Math, by targeting specific skills that the student lacks.

The interventionists gather additional data, called progress monitoring, to measure the students’ progress with the intervention in RTI.  When adequate progress is made on grade level, or if the student performs at the 40th percentile or higher on the benchmark test, RTI services will be discontinued and the student will return to only receiving Tier I (regular classroom instruction).  If the student does not make progress over a period of time and enough data is gathered, the child will stay in the RTI classes or may be referred to special education to be assessed for a specific learning disability.

Pioneer Pride Program

At WCMS, we have implemented a positive behavior support program that rewards and recognizes students for exhibiting positive behaviors & attitudes during the school day.  Students are rewarded with Pioneer Pride tickets that can be cashed in each 9 weeks for prizes and rewards. Every staff member at our school has pioneer pride tickets to give out during the school day.  It is up to each individual staff member and team to determine the number of tickets to give out per day/week, however, there is a school wide minimum set per week to make sure our students are being recognized for their positive behaviors.  A positive student behavior must always be tied to one of our 3 school wide rules:

1. Be Respectful

2. Be Responsible

3. Be Safe

Students should always immediately put their name on the back of their Pioneer Pride ticket (when they first receive it) and store all their tickets in a secure location.  There will be a school assembly at the end of the year to give out numerous prizes for students who have turned in their tickets, for prizes, throughout the year. The more times a student has their name turned in, the greater the chance of their name being drawn for an end of the year prize.  It is always the goal and expectation for all WCMS students to exhibit positive behaviors on a daily basis

PLC

PLC’s stands for “Professional Learning Communities” which is a fancy way of referring to teachers working together to share ideas and best practices to ensure WCMS students attain the highest levels of learning.  During these meetings, classroom teachers of academic core subjects, are able to meet for 55 minutes as a department to prepare lessons, analyze data and share best teaching practices. Grade level PLC’s will occur one day a week during lunch for approximately 45 minutes.

DAILY BELL SCHEDULE 2019-2020

7:00 Students may be dropped off at school

7:35 Release from Bus rooms

7:45-7:55 Attendance/Announcements/Collections

8:00-8:50 First Period

8:55-9:50 Second Period

9:55-10:50 Third Period

10:50-12:45 Fourth Period (Lunch and DEAR Time)

12:50-1:45 Fifth Period 

1:50-2:45 Sixth Period

2:42 6th grade car rider dismissal

2:45 Express buses / All Walkers

2:50 Other bus riders / 7th / 8th grade car riders

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Warren County Middle School offers a wide array of extracurricular activities for students. We encourage all students to become a part of our before and after-school programs. Being involved keeps students from possibly participating in undesirable activities, but more importantly makes school fun! We know that student involvement produces academic achievement as well. 

Our extracurricular activities include many athletic teams, drama, service clubs, and academic clubs. We have something for everyone. Get involved.

Any and all students involved in extracurricular activities must submit to random drug testing per The Warren County Board of Education. Additionally, all school rules and expectations continue to apply to all students as they participate in these activities. Violation of these rules and expectations may result in removal from the club or activity and sanctions for other activities may be administered.

STUDENT POLICIES

ATTENDANCE

On the first day back to school after an absence, the student must bring with him/her a note signed by the parent/guardian stating the reason for the absence. This note is to be presented to the home base teacher who will turn it in to attendance. If after three days upon a student’s return to school a note is not received, the absence becomes automatically unexcused. All absences will be classified as either excused or unexcused. Excused absences shall include:

- Personal illness / other up to five days per school year with a parent’s note; thereafter, a doctor’s statement is required.

- Illness of immediate family member.

- Death in the family.

- Extreme weather conditions.

- Religious observance, a five-day notice is requested.

- Circumstances, which in the judgment of the principal, create emergencies over which the student has no control.

When the absence is created by a doctor’s appointment, court appearance, etc., the excuse will apply only to the reasonable amount of time involved including time for travel. (I.e. A student having an appointment at 2:00 p.m. would not be excused the entire school day.)

STUDENT ABSENCES

Students are allowed to bring a note from a parent to excuse an absence up to 5 times per year.  After the 5th parent note is used, the student must have a doctor’s note or have prior permission from the Principal to excuse the absence.  It is important that students are in school every day to achieve the highest levels of learning.

PERFECT ATTENDANCE

To be eligible for perfect attendance, a student must be in attendance for a length of time equal to the state’s minimum hourly requirement for a school day. To have perfect attendance, a student’s attendance record must indicate that the actual day absent at years end is .99 or below or less than 420 minutes away from school the entire year.

Students who sign in late and check out early will accumulate time, and when this time reaches 420 minutes or 7 hours, the student will be considered absent one day.

REPORTING PROCEDURE FOR UNEXCUSED ABSENCES

(Warren County Board of Education Policy)

Student absences are checked on a daily basis by the attendance office. When students have accumulated three unexcused absences, a three day letter will be sent and the student will be placed on an attendance contract.  When students have accumulated five unexcused absences, a five day letter will be sent home. This letter requires the parent to contact the attendance office in order to explain or verify the absences. Further unexcused absences will result in you and your child receiving a summons to appear before the Warren County Truancy Board and/or the Juvenile Court of Warren County.

ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL / DEPARTURE FROM SCHOOL

School hours are from 7:45 a.m. - 2:45 p.m. The bus room will be open with teacher supervision beginning at 7:00 a.m. No student is to arrive at school prior to 7:00 a.m. Students arriving before 7:40 a.m. each morning must report to their assigned bus room until the dismissal bell. The only exception is students who ride a bus and participate in the school breakfast program. Bus riders may proceed directly to the cafeteria. Breakfast is served from 7:00 until 7:35 a.m. Any student desiring to eat breakfast should enter the cafeteria and proceed immediately through the breakfast line. Students should take trays to the designated eating area. Following breakfast and return of trays, the students should proceed to assigned bus room. Sixth and seventh grade students should go to the gym. Eighth grade students should go to the non-eating area of the cafeteria.

Students are prohibited from being on school grounds before or after school hours unless involved in a school authorized or school-sponsored activity.

SNOW SCHEDULE/EMERGENCY DISMISSAL

Due to snow or other inclement weather, school opening may be delayed by two hours. This means that school will begin at 9:45 a.m. IMPORTANT: ON THESE DELAYED DAYS, SCHOOL SUPERVISION WILL BEGIN ONLY ONE HOUR PRIOR TO THE BEGINNING OF THE SCHOOL DAY. The bus rooms will not be opened or unlocked prior to 8:45 on these mornings. Please help us keep everyone as safe as possible.

Please plan for, and arrange with your child, transportation alternatives that he/she is to follow when school is dismissed early for weather or other circumstances. Students that routinely ride a bus will be placed on a bus when school is dismissed early. Students who are transported to/from school by private vehicle will be dismissed according to there parental devised plan. Please inform your child as to what to do if school is dismissed early. 

BUS TRANSPORTATION AND CONDUCT

The school bus is an extension of school activity; therefore, students will conduct themselves on the bus in a manner consistent with the established standards for safety and classroom behavior.

Students are under the supervision and control of the bus driver while on his/her bus and all reasonable directions given by him/her will be followed.

Any misconduct in which it becomes necessary for the driver to report to the principal may result in the student becoming ineligible for transportation. Suspension from riding the school bus is progressive.

*Bus Driver warnings will be given before a referral is made to the school.  

First offense – up to 3 day suspension from the bus 

Second offense - 5 day suspension from the bus

Third offense - off the bus for the remainder of the year

*WCMS administration reserves the right to suspend students based on the severity of the incident.

*Student and parent(s) may appear before the discipline board to request reinstatement.

Any student who gets off the bus at any point between the pick-up point and school, or any student wishing to ride a bus other than his/her designated bus must present the bus driver with a note of authorization from the parent which has also been signed by a school administrator.  If a change of residence occurs during the school year, the parent must notify the transportation department / school in writing.

Students who transfer from bus to bus while en route to and from school shall be expected to abide by the discipline policies of the school system and the school campus on which they arrive.

Students leaving campus may not return to campus to ride a bus or for any other reason.

Questions concerning detailed student bus behavior can be discussed with the bus driver or the bus garage office        (473-8013). WCMS is simply enforcing the penalties that Durham Bus Company has in place.

STUDENTS WHO ARE TRANSPORTED BY PARENTS

Students who are transported to school in the morning should have their parent/guardian let them out at the designated area only. These entrances and exits are identified. No other drop-off points are permissible. Do not use the bus ramp or teacher parking lot for drop-off or pick-up. The parking area, bus ramp, and bus rooms are supervised, whereas other areas of the campus might not be. Help us keep all students safe by complying with these rules. Students who ride with the parent/guardian in the afternoon are also to be picked up in the designated areas only. The pick-up time in the afternoon will be approximately 2:45 p.m. Students who have not been picked up by 3:00 p.m. will report to cafeteria. This includes all 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students. Definitive transportation arrangements should be made by parents and students prior to school each day. Our dismissal of students is dependent on these arrangements.

Parents picking up 7th or 8th grade students in the afternoon must observe and follow the displayed signs. Staff members will be on the parking lot to assist with traffic flow. The parking lane closest to the cafeteria will be an EXIT ONLY lane. This lane will be blocked to entering traffic from 2:00-3:00 p.m. each day. Those exiting from this lane will be allowed a right turn only.

If you enter lane 3 or 4, you must exit to the left on Caldwell Street or proceed straight onto Rebel Hill Street.

In order to make sure that our students are safe, teachers are required to remain at school until the last child is picked up either by a bus or by a parent. Our school day ends at 2:45 p.m., with the last bus departing Warren County Middle School at 3:15 p.m. All parents must make arrangements to have their children transported from school by 3:15 p.m.

When a parent does not arrive on time to collect his/her son or daughter, teachers must remain at school with that child. Warren County Middle School does NOT provide after-school childcare. Please be prompt.

If an emergency arises, please call the school and inform the teachers on bus duty about the problem so they, and your child, will not be unnecessarily worried.

STUDENTS WHO WALK

Students walking to school must report immediately upon arrival to campus to their designated supervised area (6th and 7th graders to Gym, 8th grade to cafeteria). Walkers will be dismissed at approximately 2:45 p.m. They are to immediately depart campus by designated routes and will be supervised by the SRO or a designated adult. No lingering in the parking lot or other campus areas.

TARDIES

Being at school and in class on time is essential for optimum teaching, learning, and earning of credit and promotion to the next grade.  School bus transportation is provided free of charge to students in Warren County. For this reason, tardiness related to car problems, traffic, oversleeping, etc. are not valid reasons for tardiness.  

School hours at Warren County Middle School are 7:45 until 2:45 daily.  Due to heavy volumes of traffic around 7:30am, it is advised that you plan accordingly.  Students must be in their classrooms when the 7:45am bell rings, or they will be tardy. Teachers are instructed to take roll at 7:45 and submit to our attendance clerk immediately.  All students that have not arrived in homebase by the 7:45 bell will sign in at the main desk and an administrative designee will determine status. A note will be issued to the student with time of arrival, status of tardy, and consequence if applicable.  The note will be turned in to the teacher of record at the time the student enters the school.     

Each student is given 3 tardies in a nine week period without any consequence.  (The 3rd tardy will receive a warning, written or verbal.)  Over the course of a year this equates to 12 tardies with no consequences.  Doctor’s notes will be excused, all others will be considered as part of the allowable three per nine weeks.   A fourth unexcused tardy in nine weeks will result in an assigned ASI. On the third unexcused tardy in the same quarter, the student will have a mandatory meeting with the school Principal and/or District Attendance Director and the student will be placed on an attendance contract for the remainder of the quarter.  If the student is out of zone the student will be required to attend the school they are zoned to attend. SSI may be assigned if more unexcused tardies occur. (Our mission is to teach students employable skills of attendance, punctuality, and preparedness so that they can be successful in the work world. Tardies accumulate throughout the day and may result in disciplinary action.    

CHECKING IN/CHECKING OUT

For all check in/out between 8:00–2:40, please proceed to rear (not Caldwell Street entrance) of WCMS main building and park near commons area (enter through glass doors).  Students that arrive to school tardy must have a parent/guardian sign them in at the front desk.

Once a student arrives on campus, he/she cannot leave without checking out through the office. Any student leaving school during the school day must be signed out in the office by the parent or designee. Students may not be checked out by anyone not on the emergency card. The responsible person must come in to sign the student out. Identification may be requested. 

If it is necessary to check out during the day, students are requested to do so only between classes so as to minimize classroom interruptions. (Please see daily bell schedule.) Please work with us in keeping your child in school for the entire day. Please make doctor and dentist appointments, whenever possible, after school hours. Much instructional and office time is consumed in this checking-out process. All time missed during any school day is cumulative, and a student may miss a number of days because of early check-outs or late arrivals.

Check outs will be considered the same as tardies.  The Student is allowed 3 unexcused check outs per nine weeks.  The 4th unexcused check out will result in an ASI being assigned.  The 5th unexcused checkout will result in an additional ASI or a SSI being assigned (administrators’ discretion).

PRIOR-ARRANGED ABSENCES

Parents may request ONE prior-arranged absence by sending a note to the principal to explain the dates and reasons for the upcoming absence. The arrangements must be approved by the principal and teachers. The administrative decision will be based on attendance record, academic performance, and school testing schedule. All work missed during an excused absence must be made up. 

No prior arranged absences will be accepted for the last ten days of school, and no tests will be administered early. All students are required to attend the same number of days for school each year, and students should not plan to leave school early. Students who miss the last few days of school due to unexcused absences run the risk of failing.

SCHOOL-SPONSORED ACTIVITIES

Students participating in school-sponsored activities whether on campus or off campus shall not be counted absent (limited to six school-sponsored activities per year). All work should be requested prior to absence and submitted within three days of absence. To qualify for “school-sponsored,” the activity must be school planned, school directed, and teacher supervised. 4-H activities are considered school sponsored.

MAKE-UP WORK FOR ABSENCES

It is the responsibility of the student to consult with a teacher whose class he/she has missed to determine what make-up work is necessary. The teacher is not responsible for asking the student for such work. Failure of the student to initiate a request for make-up work will result in a lost opportunity for credit for the missed work. 

Students must request make-up work on the day they return to class. Make-up work must be completed within a three-day period. In case of a prolonged illness, teachers will set a reasonable time limit for the work to be completed.

 Any work missed during an absence can be made up.

HOMEWORK

Students should have a minimum of 30 minutes to one hour of homework in addition to the required 20 minutes reading time each night (AR). Involve your child in establishing a regular time, place, and procedure for homework completion each night. Even students who say they do not have any homework on a particular evening can spend time in review or preparation for future tests or assignments. Check through the Info Line to insure that assignments are correct.  Our goal is to not let students off the hook and to have 100% homework and class work.

WCMS HOMEWORK HOTLINE AND VOICE MAIL

WCMS is proud that we have an installed Voice Mail system that also allows us to provide Homework Hotline information for our students and parents. 

Our Voice Mail system will only answer when we are closed.  If you call 473-6557 during school hours and wish to leave a message for a teacher, your call will be transferred by an operator to that teacher’s mailbox so you can leave a message complete with a number where the teacher can reach you.  If you call after hours, the Voice Mail system will direct you to any teacher’s mailbox so that you can leave a message. Leave messages for Mr. Tidwell with the school administrative assistant, Kim Nunley.

Our Homework Hotline works in much the same way that our old system operated.  Dial 473-6557 after 3:00 p.m.; the Voice Mail system will answer.  You can access the directory by pressing the # key. Then put in the first four letters of the team’s name (corresponding numbers are shown below) and press the “#” key to accept:

6th Grade 7th Grade 8th Grade

Prospectors:  PROS or 7767

Rockets:   ROCK or 7625

Bears:   BEAR or 2327            

Navigators:   NAVI or 6284

Pathfinders:   PATH or 7284

Discoverers:  DISC or 3472

Trailblazers: TRAI or 8724

Please note that the Homework Hotline mailboxes are not able to record messages.  If you need to leave a message for a particular teacher, you will need to use the company directory to find that teacher’s voice mailbox.

SKYWARD FAMILY & STUDENT ACCESS 

See the Skyward Family link on the Warren Co. Schools Website at www.warrenschools.com  This is a very valuable website to all WCMS parents and it will be utilized each school year to register Warren Co. Students for the upcoming school year.

SCHOOL BREAKFAST/SCHOOL LUNCH

Breakfast is served each morning from 7:00 - 7:35 a.m. A nutritious breakfast is provided to each student free of charge.  Also, every student in school is served a lunch meal that is free of charge on a daily basis. This includes one choice from the meat group, two from the vegetable/fruit groups, one bread, and one milk. Pizza, burgers, and sandwiches may also be purchased separately or as part of the full lunch, with such items counting as a meat and a bread. We encourage all students to make wise nutritional choices and to participate in the free school breakfast/lunch programs. Students now also have the opportunity to get a free morning snack when they are dismissed each day to their homeroom class.  These morning snacks have become very popular among the students and each student is encouraged to take a snack for later in the morning. In the afternoons, after school, students who have to wait on buses or are involved in an after school extracurricular program have the opportunity for a free afternoon snack through the snupper program.

STUDENTS IN THE HALLWAYS

There should be little need for the student to leave the classroom during the class period. If it is necessary to be in the hall during class time, students must have in their possession this handbook appropriately signed by the supervising teacher. Students found in the hall without the signed handbook will be sent back to class or dealt with appropriately. Students are NOT to knock on doors or interrupt a teacher’s class without an administrative pass. 

HALL COURTESY

Change class quietly and be considerate of other students. Keep halls open to traffic at all times. Walk on the right. Do not block the traffic by sitting or standing in the middle of the halls. Help keep your school clean by discarding trash in cans provided.

DRESS CODE

In keeping with the educational goals of this school, students are expected to dress and groom themselves with a sense of responsibility.  The dress code eliminates obvious or perceived disruptive distractions and safety concerns. Each student will show a high degree of respect for the standards of decency, cleanliness, and style appropriate to support an educational environment.

All dress code decisions shall be made by the principal in accordance with the school guidelines and Warren County school board policy.  When a student is found to be in violation of the dress code they will be sent to Mr. Collier. The student will call home for appropriate clothing and the offense will be documented.  

Dress code violations will result in 1st) a warning and a change of clothes (if available) 2nd) call to parent to bring a change of clothes 3rd) 1 day of in school suspension and finally 4th) out of school suspension.  A call to parent or guardian will be made for each violation and may result in having clothes brought to school for the change.  

1. Hats, caps, other head coverings such as bandanas, and sun glasses will not be worn in any way or form in the school building.  (allowed on special dress up days).

2. Unnatural hair coloring deemed disruptive to the educational process by the principal is not acceptable. 

3. Clothing and accessories decorated with slogans that promote or are suggestive of drugs, sex, bodily functions, profanity, tobacco, alcohol, gang activities, criminal activity, violence or death and/or hate speech or symbols including organizations which promote these disturbing influences are prohibited.

4. Shoes must be worn at all times. Laces on shoes or sneakers must be tied. 

5. Dresses, shorts or skirts that are no shorter than a dollar bill width (2 ½ inches) from the crease in the back of the knee will be acceptable.  

6. All pants will be worn at the waistline. Jeans and pants must not sag, bag, drag, or expose undergarments.  Jeans or other clothing with holes or tears above the allowable short length, is not allowed. A hole is a hole regardless of size. All holes repaired must be patched or sewn.  

7. Shirts must cover undergarments as well as midriff, chest, cleavage, back and buttock.  Sleeveless shirts must have a strap that is at least the width of a dollar bill (2 1/2 inches).  Clothing should meet this standard not only standing, but also when sitting stretching, bending, and/or stooping.   See through clothing is not acceptable.   

8. Wallet chains, dog chains or collars, bracelets or necklaces with spikes or sharp points and other wearing apparel that could be used as weapons are prohibited.  

9. Form fitting clothes, such as spandex or biking shorts, are not acceptable as an outer garment.  

10. Leggings may be worn only with dress code appropriate top/skirt/shorts that adequately cover the backside and the front side when standing and sitting (no exceptions). Administration decisions on dress code issues will be final. If in doubt, it is best not to wear the leggings to school.  

11. Special dress days may be designated by the principal to include not limited to the following examples; field days, picture days, school spirit days, etc. 

12. Piercings in the nose, lip, ect. are allowed but must be fitted with body jewelry that is deemed safe.  Studs are considered safe while hoops are not. Gauges are allowed as long as they are fitted with flat, solid discs.  No spikes or open gauges are allowed at WCMS.

If a student feels that he/she cannot comply with the standardized dress code because of religious or ethnic beliefs or physical characteristics, the parent/guardian must provide a written explanation to the principal for possible relief from certain aspects of this dress code.    

The student body will be advised of the dress code during the first two weeks of school. Once students have had time to understand and adapt to the policy, appropriate measures will be taken to insure compliance of the policy.    Student discipline may result if a student fails to comply with school rules.

The intent of the Dress Code of Warren County Middle School is to provide an atmosphere of appropriateness, respect, safety, and positive image which is commensurate with a desirable school environment. Any manner of school dress not promoting the above will be subject to review.

DANCES

WCMS will host 4 dances during the 2019-2020 school year.

Back to School Dance

Christmas Dance

Valentine’s Dance

End of Year Dance

DRESS CODE MUST BE SCHOOL APPROPRIATE:

-Dresses, shorts, or skirts that are not shorter than a dollar bill width (2 ½ inches) from the crease in the back of the knee will be acceptable. 

-Shirts and dresses must cover undergarments as well as midriff, chest, cleavage, back and buttock.  

-Sleeveless shirts and dresses must have a strap that is at least the width of a dollar bill (2 ½ inches) *Shirts or dresses with smaller straps must be covered with a cardigan and the cardigan must be worn at all times. 

-Clothing must meet these standards not only standing but also when sitting, stretching, bending, and /or stooping.  

-See through clothing is not acceptable

*Students not meeting the dress code guidelines will be asked to change or they will not be admitted into the dance.  

*Any student assigned an OSS is not eligible to attend school dances or extracurricular activities during the suspension.

BACKPACKS/BOOKBAGS/PURSES

Students may transport books, paper, pencils, personal items and school items to and from school in backpacks, book bags, or purses. When students arrive in their team area, they are to remove school items from their backpacks, book bags, or purses and store the personal items in their locker until school dismissal. No backpacks, book bags or excessively large purses are allowed in classrooms until the last class period of the day.  Students will gain access to other personal items, locker, and contents with teacher permission. (Aisles must remain open and clear for emergency exit).

ALL STUDENTS: “HANDS-OFF POLICY”

The Warren County Middle School adheres to the “hands-off” policy. Mutual respect is our goal. Due to the charges of sexual harassment as well as providing an atmosphere that promotes mutual respect, all students will keep all hands and objects to themselves. Violation of this policy will lead to disciplinary action. Parents may be required to come to school for a conference concerning this problem.

BULLYING / HARASSMENT / SEXUAL HARASSMENT

General Harassment/Bullying - Harassment (peer or sexual) will not be tolerated. Acts of verbal, physical, or sexual aggression are not allowed. Any incidents should be reported to a counselor, teacher, or principal. Confidentiality will be maintained. Incidents should be documented and investigated.  To report incidents of bullying or harassment contact WCMS guidance department or Assistant Principal, Joe Collier, at 473-6557.

Sexual harassment activity toward any student by an employee or another student will not be tolerated. Victims of sexual harassment shall report these conditions to the appropriate school official. Confidentiality will be maintained and no reprisals or retaliation will occur as a result of good faith reporting of charges of sexual harassment.

In determining whether alleged conduct constitutes sexual harassment, all of the circumstances, including the nature of the conduct and the context in which the alleged conduct occurred, will be investigated. The Director of Schools shall be responsible for investigating all complaints of sexual harassment.

Students reported for sexual harassment may face: conference with the principal to determine level of understanding, counseling sessions, after-school instruction, or suspension from school.

*In order for school staff to appropriately deal with bullying issues, the student must inform a teacher, staff member or administrator.

CYBER BULLYING

Cyber bullying is the use of information and communication technologies-- such as e-mail, cell phone, and page text messages, instant messaging, still photo or video messaging, defamatory personal web sites, and online personal polling sites or personal or public web sites or journals—to support deliberate, hostile behavior intended to frighten , distress or harm others or their property.  

Cyber bullying, like any other form of bullying, will not be tolerated on school campus or at any school-related activity or function whether it occurs through school-provided communication devices or through personal communication devices.   Cyber bullying that begins off campus will be considered school related if it creates a climate of fear or causes substantial disruption at school or interferes with the rights of students. Cyber bullying will result in appropriate disciplinary action and may also result in mandatory reporting to law enforcement or possible prosecution through the judicial system when appropriate.  

Students and staff are required to report to designated staff any alleged incidents of bullying about which they are aware.  Reports may be made anonymously. Designated staff will investigate all reports and recommend the school’s course of action. Reports should be made to WCMS guidance department or Assistant Principal, Joe Collier, at 473-6557.

DISCIPLINE

It is the philosophy of Warren County Middle School that all students, parents, and school staff work together to create a school environment that promotes academic excellence while providing a physically and emotionally safe school. We strongly feel that all students can learn. Any inappropriate behavior/conduct which might prevent a child from achieving his/her maximum potential must be dealt with accordingly.

At Warren County Middle School, established disciplinary measures are used to correct inappropriate behavior. Student conferences, parent conferences, counseling, conflict resolution, In-School Suspension, ASI (After School Instruction), SSI (Saturday School Instruction), Corporal Punishment, and Suspension are some disciplinary measures which may be taken.

The intent of any disciplinary action is to correct inappropriate behavior/conduct. If this does not take place, alternative measures must be taken. For example, after a student receives any of the above mentioned disciplinary actions several times, it must be assumed that the particular action is not effective; thus, we will move to the next level of disciplinary progression from lesser to more severe consequences. Inappropriate behavior/conduct will not be tolerated.

IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION (ISS)

Whenever students fail to carry out initial disciplinary assignments, commit reoccurring offenses, or engage in extreme acts of misconduct, they may be assigned to In-School Suspension. In-School Suspension is an alternative to sending children home from school. Students will be assigned to In-School Suspension only by an administrator of Warren County Middle School for a specific amount of time. The student will receive a letter to take home stating the offense and the specific arrangements of the In-School program and the parent will receive a phone call. Students will be counted present at school and will receive their assignments in a designated room away from the normal routines and privileges of the traditional school day.  Failure to complete this assignment may result in suspension from school.

TOBACCO POLICY

The use or possession of tobacco products in any form which includes Electronic cigarettes on school premises and on school buses by students shall be prohibited. To “use” shall mean any holding of a cigarette, cigar, or pipe, or inhaling and exhaling of the smoke of tobacco, or any chewing or dipping of any tobacco product.

Students are prohibited from using any tobacco products on school property, school buses, or at school-sponsored events.

Penalties for Violation:  Offenders may be cited to Juvenile Court in addition to discipline assigned by the school.

CONDUCT: LANGUAGE / FIGHTING / SUBSTANCE ABUSE / ALCOHOL

Students shall conduct themselves with disciplined respect for all school policies, personnel, and property.

LANGUAGE:  Inappropriate, profane, or vulgar language will not be condoned. Students who engage in such language face disciplinary measures. 

FIGHTING: Fighting will not be tolerated in any form. Students who fight will be suspended from school or placed in In-School Suspension.

ALCOHOL/DRUGS:  Student use, possession, distribution, sale, or being under the influence of alcohol on any school grounds or at any school function (home or away) is strictly prohibited.  On first offense, the student will be suspended and sent to the next Discipline Board where the minimum penalty for violation of this policy will be placement to the Alternative School for a minimum of 45 instructional days or until the end of the grading period, whichever is greater and the loss of all privileges in the Warren County School System.  The second and all subsequent violations of this policy will result in the assignment to the Alternative School for one calendar year with reviews to be held at semester breaks to determine student progress and placement and the loss of all privileges in the Warren County School System. 

Being under the influence of illegal drugs will also be included with the above alcohol policy since it is not addressed under the zero tolerance. 

Students will not consume, possess, distribute or be under the influence of illegal drugs or alcoholic beverages in school buildings or on school grounds, in school vehicles or buses, or at any school-sponsored activity at any time, whether on or off school grounds. 

Disciplinary sanctions will be imposed on students who violate standards of conduct required by this policy.  Such sanctions will be consistent with local, state and federal laws, up to and including rehabilitation programs may also be recommended.                                                  

ZERO TOLERANCE OFFENSES

In order to insure a safe and secure learning environment, the following offenses will not be tolerated:

WEAPONS & DANGEROUS INSTRUMENTS:  Students shall not possess, handle, transmit, use, or attempt to use any dangerous weapon in school buildings or on school grounds at any time, or in school vehicles and/or buses or off the school grounds at a school-sponsored activity, function, or event.

Dangerous weapons for the purposes of this policy shall include, but are not limited to, “...any firearm, explosive, explosive weapon, bowie knife, hawk bill knife, ice pick, dagger, slingshot, switchblade knife, blackjack, knuckles...”

Violators of this section shall be subject to suspension and/or expulsion from school.

FIREARMS: (as defined in 18 U.S.C. §921):  In accordance with state law, any student who brings or possesses a firearm on school property shall be expelled for a period of not less than one (1) calendar year. The Director of schools shall have the authority to modify this expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis.

DRUGS:  In accordance with state law, any student who unlawfully possesses any drug including any controlled substance or legend drug shall be expelled for a period of not less than one calendar year. The Director of Schools shall have the authority to modify this expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis.

BATTERY:  In accordance with state law, any student who commits battery or threatens battery upon an employee of the school or school resource officer shall be expelled for a period of not less than one calendar year. The Director of schools shall have the authority to modify this expulsion requirement on a case-by-case basis.

NOTIFICATION:  When it is determined that a student has violated this policy, the principal of the school shall notify the students’ parent or guardian and the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system as required by law.

ADVISORY:  The disciplinary board shall serve in an advisory capacity to the Director of schools in zero tolerance appeals.

FERPA:  Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.  For Information regarding all aspects of FERPA call 931-668-4022 (ext. 226)

CHEWING GUM/EATING DURING CLASS

Students are not allowed to chew gum any place on campus. We insist on this policy because of the damage done to the furniture, carpet, etc., as well as the lack of manners many times displayed by the gum chewer. Although, in and of itself, gum chewing is not a serious offense, the teachers and administration consider the disregard of a strict school rule an offense. Students who chew gum will be disciplined.  Consequences may include: warning, clean tables, no talking table at lunch, ASI or ISS.

INHALANTS

Students are not to possess white-out, permanent or dry markers personally! These items are frequently misused or abused on school grounds. Use is restricted to teacher issued, teacher supervised.  Additionally energy drinks or substances loaded with caffeine and aspartame are not permitted at WCMS. Example: (Red Bull)  

GRAFFITI

WCMS students are not allowed to write on themselves or each other.  During the school day students are expected to be engaged in learning activities.  Writing on themselves or each other would show that they are not engaged in such learning activities.  This “human graffiti” has also proven to be a distraction in the classroom. Violators will be referred to administration for appropriate discipline.

FIDGET SPINNERS

Fidget spinners are devises that students spin in their hand, or on a surface of some sort, which can be distracting to the learning process within our school.  For this reason, fidget spinners are not allowed at WCMS unless the use of the fidget spinner is written in a student’s IEP or 504 plan.

SCHOOL DELIVERIES

Students are not to have items delivered to them at school without prior approval from the principal. All floral deliveries, flowers, balloons, stuffed items, etc., must be made to your home address. These objects may NOT be transported on the school bus.

PERSONAL COMMUNICATION DEVICES

Students shall not use any personal communication devices, such as texting devices and cellular phones, during school hours from 7:00 am until they step off school campus either by walking, getting in a vehicle or riding a bus (the bus may or may not allow these devices).  Students are only allowed to use cell phones when teacher permission is granted for instructional purposes in the classroom or as deemed appropriate by school staff.

In this day and age we realize that many students and their families depend on cell phones for communications devices, especially during after school activities, therefore we will allow students to store cell phones in a backpack, locker, or carry on their person.    However, students and parents must realize that the unauthorized use of a cell phone on school campus will result in the device being confiscated and turned into the WCMS administration.  

Students attending school–sponsored activities on or off school property shall not use a personal communication device if such use is disruptive to the activity or if permission to use is not granted by a staff member.

If a student is discovered in possession of a “visible” personal communication device on school property during the regular day, or if the device is disruptive during the school sponsored activity on or off school property, the device will be confiscated on the first offense and taken to the Principal’s office.  A parent or guardian may have a formal meeting to reclaim the phone from the Principal, at the end of the school day, and a verbal warning will be issued.  A second violation will result in the device being confiscated and the parent may come to the school at the end of the day to pick up the phone.  The student will be assigned an ASI for failure to adhere to school rules. If the phone is taken a third time during the school year, the parent may come to the school at the end of the day to pick up the phone.  The student will be assigned SSI for the 3rd violation as well as for each cell phone violation for the rest of the school year.   If, at any time without teacher permission to use, the personal communication device emits an audible signal, is used to record, video, take a picture of students or staff, vibrates or otherwise summons or delivers a communication to the possessor during school hours or a school sponsored activity, the student will receive disciplinary action to be determined by the WCMS administration.

The Warren County Middle School is not responsible for lost or stolen cell phones. 

*Students may not use personal communication devices to call/text home.  Students must receive permission and use a school phone to call home.  

SMART WATCH/OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES

Beginning the 2019-20 school year, students that attend WCMS will no longer be allowed to wear smart watches or other electronic devices that have the capability to text, call, video, or photograph another individual.  Students can wear a regular watch, that does not have the capabilities listed above, if they need a time piece to monitor their time. Smart watches and other electronic devices that have the capabilities listed above, have proven to be a disruption to the educational process.  Students may continue to carry a cell phone as long as it is not used without teacher/administrator approval. Violation of the policy will result in the same consequences listed under our schools “Personal Communications Devices” policy.

PHONE USE

School phones are for emergency use only, and students may only use the phone in the guidance counselor’s office and/or at the teacher’s discretion. Emergency calls do NOT include forgotten lunch money, forgotten items, permission to stay after school, or permission to go home with another student. Teachers, students, and parents are expected to make arrangements for after-school activities or to cancel after-school activities in advance – not the day of an activity. If a student must call home due to illness, the nurse will make the call to the parent. 

HEALTH SERVICES

If your child has a medical condition that might require special action, please contact the WCMS school nurse or one of the School Nurses in Health Services at 668-5111. Examples would be diabetes, asthma, severe allergies with the need for an epipen, seizures, or others. We will assist you in the communication of those special needs and the appropriate responses at school and on the bus through an Action Plan.

This is intended to serve as an informational guideline in preventing the spread of communicable diseases in the schools. Please refer to these guidelines throughout the school year. A student should be kept home when the following symptoms persist:

• Temperature of 100 degrees or more

• A dry, hacking or productive cough

• Purulent (green, yellow, thick, or unusual) nasal or eye drainage

• Diarrhea

• Skin rashes or eruptions: such as scabies, chicken pox, or impetigo

• Complaints of earache, severe stomachache, sore throat, severe headache

• Red throat, swollen glands around jaw, ears, or neck

• Nausea and Vomiting

• Lethargy (general complaint of muscular aches and pain)

• Head or body lice must be treated with appropriate medication before returning to school

The school policy is lice free before returning to school.  

We want to encourage you not to send medications to be administered at school. But if that is necessary, there are specific guidelines we must follow in order to comply with state law. You will find these guidelines below.  Warren County Schools and WCMS have created a Pandemic Response Plan which can be viewed at www.warrenschools.com. 

MEDICATION

Students required to take prescribed medication must have an “Administration of Medication” form completed and on file. This form is available from the school nurse or the guidance counselor and MUST BE COMPLETED when medication is delivered to the school clinic by the parent or guardian of the student. (Students do not complete the form or transport medication to school.) Medication will be kept and given to the students at the designated time.

The school is not permitted to administer medication, including aspirin, Tylenol, etc., at the student’s request.

NOTE! Any student possessing, selling, giving, sharing, or misrepresenting any medication in any form including, but not limited to any type of over-the-counter medication or health aide (such as vitamins), will be subject to full prosecution under the Drug Free Schools Act.

No school official or teacher will routinely dispense medication to students except in unique situations in which a child’s health is dependent upon medical aid. If under exceptional circumstances a child is required to take oral medication during school hours and the parent cannot be at school to administer the medication, only the principal or the principal’s designee will administer the medication in compliance with the following regulations:

The medication must be delivered to the school nurse’s office in person by the parent or guardian of the student unless the medication must be retained by the student for immediate administration (i.e. students with asthma).

All prescription medications must be brought to school in the original container labeled by the pharmacy to include the following information:

Name of student

Prescription number

Name of medication and dosage

Administration route or other directions

Date

Licensed prescriber’s name

Pharmacy name, address, and phone number.

Nonprescription medication may be administered only with the written request and permission of a parent or guardian. All nonprescription medication must be brought to school in the manufacturer’s container with ingredients of the product listed on the container and child’s name affixed to the container by the parent. The medication will be administered in accordance with label directions or written instructions from the student’s physician.

The administrator/school nurse/designee:

1. Inform appropriate school personnel of the medication being administered;

2. Keep an accurate record of the administration of the medication;

3. Keep all medication in a locked cabinet except medication retained by a student per physician’s order; and

4. Return unused prescription to the parent or guardian only.

The parent or guardian is responsible for informing the designated official of any change in the student’s health or change in medication.

A copy of this policy shall be provided to a parent or guardian upon receipt of a request for long-term administration of medication.

LOCKERS

Each student will be assigned a locker for personal use. Students may bring a combination lock if they wish. Locks will not be issued at school. Students will not share their locker with anyone nor occupy unassigned lockers. Lockers are school property and are subject to search. Locks are recommended. If locks are used, an extra key or combination should be given to the homeroom teacher in order to handle emergencies or expedite procedures.

Notice: Lockers and other storage areas, containers, and packages brought into the school by students or visitors are subject to search for drugs, drug paraphernalia, dangerous weapons, or any property which is not properly in possession of the student. (T.C.A. 49-6-4204, Public Chapter 636 (1994))

Notice: A student may be subject to PHYSICAL SEARCH because of the results of a locker search, or because of information received from a teacher, staff member, student, or other person, if such action is reasonable to the principal. (T.C.A. 49-6-4205, Public Chapter 636 (1994))

NOTE: Students are responsible for the contents of their bags, purses, and clothing.

TEXTBOOKS

Textbooks are issued by the teacher. All books are recorded by number by the teacher according to the condition of the book. Lost or damaged books (including library books) MUST be paid for before another textbook may be issued or before school records may be transferred to another school or before grade cards can be released. 

STUDENTS OWING MONEY

Students that owe money for textbooks, library books, pictures, or any school fund raiser will not be permitted to participate in any extracurricular or school-wide activities.

LIBRARY FINES

Students are allowed to check out two books for a two week time period.  If they are not finished after two weeks they may renew the books for the same amount of time.  If books are not returned on the due date, a ten cent per day per book fine will be charged to the student.  After the student has accumulated a $1.00 or more in fines, they are not allowed to check out books until the fine has been paid.  Students who owe the library money and/or have lost a book are not permitted to participate in any extra curricular or school-wide activities. 

MONEY/VALUABLES/OTHER ITEMS

The school will not be responsible for lost or stolen items. Students should not bring large amounts of money or valuable items to school. Students may not bring CELLULAR PHONES, IPODS, TEXTING DEVICES, PALM PILOTS, laser pointers, radios, tape players, music boxes, video games, CD’s or players, skateboards, rollerblades, baseball cards, cameras, or any other type of toy to school unless prior approval has been given by the teachers. 

SELLING OF ITEMS

No items are to be brought to school to be sold unless they are items being sold by this school in a fund-raising activity. No items may be sold for personal profit. All fund raisers will be cleared through the administrative staff. In addition, no personal items are to be brought to school by students for the purpose of trading, selling, or displaying.

REPORT CARDS/GRADING

Report cards are distributed at the end of each grading period. If your child fails to bring home a card at this time, you need to phone the teacher to ask why. A poor grade on your child’s report card should alert you to the fact that something has gone wrong. Our guidance office will be happy to assist in scheduling conferences upon request. Please call 473-2672 for an appointment as classes will not be interrupted. Additional incremental reports will also be sent from your child’s team.  

The grading scale is as follows: 

A = 93-100 Outstanding Achievement 

B = 85-92 Above Average 

C = 75-84 Average 

D = 70-74 Below Average 

F = Below 70 Unacceptable Achievement 

STUDENT AWARDS PROGRAMS

Student achievement will be recognized at the end of each 9 week grading period throughout the year.  Student recognition will be given for the following four areas: 1.) All A’s honor roll 2.) A/B honor roll  3.) Perfect Attendance 4.) B.U.G. (Bringing Up Grades)

BUS/CAR RIDER LAST MINUTES CHANGES

From time to time it may be necessary for parents to call the school to get a message to their child concerning a change in their transportation home from school.  If at all possible, parents are asked to call the front desk prior to 2:00 pm, to make these changes. At the end of the day it can be very hectic at the front desk with early sign-outs and we want to make sure important information is successfully delivered to all students.

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES/VISITORS

Parents are welcome at Warren County Middle School. We do ask, however, that all parents and other visitors report to the visitor’s center/attendance desk upon entering and should obtain a visible visitor’s pass.  (The Commons area is located adjacent to the rear of our auditorium. It is open from 7:00- 3:30 daily). Parents and visitors should also sign in when arriving and sign out when leaving the building. We think these precautions are necessary for the protection of our students.

Students should not bring friends or relatives to school to go to classes with them. This often causes a disruption to the class. Our principal and assistant principals will be happy to meet with parents whenever they have a concern. It is always wise to phone for an appointment ahead of time to insure a prompt meeting time.

Notice: Vehicles parked on school property by students or visitors are subject to search for drugs, drug paraphernalia, or dangerous weapons. (T.C.A. 49-6-4204, Public Chapter 636 (1994))

HANDBOOK

All students will be issued a WCMS Handbook/Assignment Book. If lost, students must purchase a replacement book for $10.00 through the guidance office. Since this handbook will serve as a student’s hall pass when verified by his/her teacher, it is imperative that it not be lost. If it is lost, it must be replaced as soon as possible.

Throughout the year, policies may be amended as the need arises.

 

HANDBOOK INFORMATION FOR PARENTS OF MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS

CHARACTERISTICS OF “TWEEN-AGERS”

Below is a list of characteristics which seventy-five percent (75%) of all children in the in-between ages of twelve to fifteen exhibit during this difficult developmental stage. We want you to be familiar with these so that when your child displays behaviors which are unlike his/her pre-adolescent self, you will be somewhat comforted to know that these erratic and seemingly abnormal behaviors are really quite the norm for this period of time. 

PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT

– rapid growth in height and weight; poor muscular control 

– awkwardness, restlessness; easily tired, but may not sleep 

– appetite ranges from starvation to gorging 

– nail biting, stammering, blushing, and frequent stomach upset

MENTAL DEVELOPMENT

– at war with time (never begins soon enough) 

– difficulty in concentrating so task completion is poor 

– wants economic independence without showing responsibility 

– sees criticism as a personal attack; poor sense of reality 

– uses language (vulgarities, obscenities) to impress others 

– ignores adult help in planning; wants to be left alone

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT

– strong sense of loyalty to peers; conformity to peers 

– frequent crushes; insecurity; extremes in dress/speech 

– aggressive, argumentative, defiant, critical, daring

EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

– feelings of persecution, moodiness, depression 

– easily excitable, excessive talking, impulsive actions 

– devaluation of parents’ importance and parents’ values

Please note that some children will exhibit NONE of these characteristics while others will exhibit one or more. Remember that each child matures at his/her own unique pace.

POLICY STATEMENT

The Warren County School System does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, handicap, or veteran status in provision of educational opportunities, programs, activities, or employment opportunities and benefits.

WARREN CO. SCHOOL SYSTEM ANNUAL NOTICE TO PARENTS

In compliance with state and federal law, the Warren County School District will provide to each protected student with a disability, without discrimination or cost to the student or family, those related aids, services, or accommodations which are needed to provide equal opportunity to participate in and obtain the benefits of the school program and extracurricular activities to the maximum extent appropriate to the student’s abilities. In order to qualify (Section 504) as a protected student with a disability, the child must be of school age with a physical or mental disability which substantially limits or prohibits participation in or access to an aspect of the school program.

These services and protections for “protected students who are disabled” are distinct from those applicable to all eligible or exceptional students enrolled (or seeking enrollment) in special education programs.

For further information on the evaluation procedures and provision of services to protected handicapped students, contact Candice Willmore at (931) 668-4022.  If parent or guardian disagrees with the determination made by the professional staff of the school district, he/she has a right to a hearing with an impartial hearing officer. 

Notice to Students and Parents:

If you or someone you know is being neglected or abused, call the Department of Children Services (473-1524) or Hotline number 1-877-237-0004. Your call will be confidential, but questions will be asked concerning the name, age, and address of the possible neglect/abuse victim and facts about how the person is being neglected/abused. Another choice would be to tell a school system employee (principal, teacher, counselor, nurse, etc.).

Section 9532 of the NCLB Act shall provide any student who attends a persistently dangerous school, or any student who has been the victim of a violent crime while at school, the opportunity to attend a safe school.  The appropriate paper work and procedure is on file in your principal’s office. 

A pamphlet called “Parents Information Notice” has been produced to provide additional information regarding national, state, and local guidelines. These pamphlets are available upon request from the school or the System Administrative offices

STAFF SAFETY

It is the intent of the Warren County School Board to see that the working conditions for school system employees are safe and free from harassment. To that end, any employee who feels threatened, harassed, or intimidated by a parent, guardian, student, or other member of the public while performing duties for the school system, can direct the temporary removal or exclusion from the premises of any person engaged in such inappropriate behavior. The school system employee shall immediately notify the appropriate law enforcement authorities and the central office of the school system of the situation. Any person threatening, harassing, or intimidating a school system employee shall be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.