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Athol-Royalston Middle School

1062 Pleasant St.

Athol, MA  01331

Telephone: (978)-249-2430             Fax: (978)-249-0055

Web site: www.arms2000.org

STUDENT HANDBOOK

2010-2011

Attendance Policy

The Athol-Royalston Middle School is involved in a school attendance program called “School Is Where It’s At.” This program was established by the District Attorney’s office in an attempt to work with schools to improve school attendance throughout Massachusetts.  While there are a number of reasons that a student may be absent from school, the principal has legal responsibilities when the number of absences exceeds a certain limit.  A student may be considered truant and court proceedings may be initiated when the student accumulates seven unexcused absences in a six-month period (Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 76, Sec. 2). The decision whether an absence is determined to be excused is made by the principal, not by the parent/guardian.  Diligent attention is given to attendance:  all students need to attend school on a regular and consistent basis.

Arrival/Departure Times

Students should arrive at school between 7:15 a.m. and 7:25 a.m. and report directly to the gymnasium or the cafeteria if eating breakfast.  Breakfast is served in the cafeteria until 7:25 a.m. Some Royalston students who arrive on the bus shortly after 7:00 will report directly to the cafeteria, as there is no supervision in other places.

No student should arrive before 7:00 a.m.

The school day ends at 1:55 p.m. Students should leave school by 2:05 p.m.  

Absences

If you are absent from school your parent/guardian must inform the school that morning by 8:00 am. If the school does not receive notice, a phone call will be placed to the parent/guardian informing them that you did not attend school that day. In any circumstance, you are also expected to make up work missed in your absence.

Class attendance

Your teachers take attendance during every class period and send an attendance record to the office at the end of the day.  If you miss a particular class, the office will check to see why you were not at class.  If you were not excused from the class, you will be seen by the Assistant Principal and assigned time to make up that class, and may receive further consequences.   In addition, your family will be informed if you cut a class.

Excused Absences

Reasons for an excused absence include:

·         Illness

·         Medical

·         Dental Appointments

·         Court

·         Bereavement

·         Civic Duty

·         Religious Observance

·         School sponsored event/activities

·         Educational trip

 In any of these cases a phone call and/or note explaining your absences must be brought in and signed by your parent/guardian.

Planned Absence

It is extremely important that you attend school everyday.  It is impossible to fully benefit from a lesson when you are doing the assignments but not participating in the classroom activities. We understand that, occasionally you need to miss school due to a family activity and/or medical situation. Your parent/guardian must contact the Principal, in advance to notify the school of any planned absence. Teachers are available after school for make up work by parent request.

Tardiness

You will be considered tardy if you arrive to homeroom after the 7:30 AM bell. At this time you must report to the office to sign in and receive a late pass. If you have a reason for being tardy, you need to bring a written note from home signed by your parent/guardian that explains the reason. If you do not have a note for being tardy, you may be asked to make up time. A continued pattern of tardiness will be referred to the Assistant Principal.

Early Dismissal

Students may be dismissed from school for the following reasons only:

·         Family or personal emergency

·         Illness or medical appointments

·         Court appearances

·         Other to be approved by the Principal

If it becomes necessary for a student to be excused from school, a note must be presented from a parent or guardian to the Main Office.  If a student is ill, he/she must see the nurse or an administrator to leave school.  The parent or authorized adult should come into the office to sign the student out.  Students are not to leave school without having gone through this process.  Upon returning to school they must sign back in at the Main Office.

General Rules

School Rules apply and are enforced at all times when students are on school grounds, all ARRSD property, on school buses, during all athletic events, field trips, and during all school sponsored activities.

In all matters, the Principal/Administration reserves the right to exercise his/her discretion.

Bus Rules

The school is responsible for students doorstep to doorstep.

All school rules shall be in effect during this time. Please read the bus rules outlined below and follow them whenever you ride on a school bus.

Waiting for the bus:

• While waiting for the bus, students must act in a safe manner and be respectful of neighboring property owners.
• Students should be at their bus stops ten minutes before the schedule time.
• Use common sense around roadways and avoid crossing streets when possible.
• Do not move toward the bus to board until the bus has come to a full and complete stop.

Riding the bus:

• Students needing to ride a bus other than their regularly assigned bus, or stop, must have a note from a parent presented to the office, no later than the morning of the proposed change. Students will be accommodated when space is available.
• While buses are in motion, students are to be seated quietly at all times, and cannot change seats.
• Talk quietly and do not use profanity or offensive language.
• Do not eat food while you are on the bus.
• Nothing is to be thrown either on the bus or out the windows.
• Listen carefully and obey all directions issued by the driver
• Keep windows closed until directed by the driver to open them. When a window is open, students will not call to people outside or put any parts of their body outside of the bus.

Unloading from the bus:

• Do not leave your seat until the bus has come to a full and complete stop and the driver has opened the door.
• Obey all directions issued by the driver.
• Leave the bus quickly but in a courteous manner, without pushing other pupils.
• If you must cross a street as you leave the school bus, be sure to walk in front of the bus (never in back) at a distance of at least 12 feet from the bus. The driver may not be able to see you and a serious accident could occur.
• Again, be sure to observe all safety precautions as you travel from your bus stop to your home.
• When arriving at school, upon leaving the bus, immediately remove any headphones, earplugs, walkman, I pods, or MP3’s, cell phones or electronic devices and store them in your locker.

Loss of riding privileges initiated from the Bus Behavior Report form:

Students engaging in unsafe or inappropriate behaviors may be suspended from riding the school bus for a period of time. Such suspension will be initiated by the school Principal or Assistant Principal.  During any suspension of the bus privileges parents are responsible for transportation.

Car Transportation

If your family chooses to drive you to school or pick you up, they should use the lower levels of the parking lot for pickup and drop-off.  The upper level is reserved for buses and emergency vehicles from 7:00 to 7:40 a.m. and from 1:15 to 2:20 p.m.  The ramp entrance near the cafeteria is available for students with special circumstances as long as the office is notified of the need.

Dress Code

Students are expected to dress appropriately while attending school.  Appropriate attire is that which is safe, does not call undue attention to the wearer, does not cause a disturbance in the school, does not promote or seem to promote the use of alcohol, tobacco, or illegal substances, and is not vulgar or profane.

Students will not be permitted to wear the following:

• T-shirts expressing profanity, referencing drugs, alcoholic beverages, inappropriate substances, or cigarettes, or having sexual or degrading connotations–expressing hatred or serious “put-downs” of groups.
• Clothing that is ripped or tattered in a deliberate manner.
• Shirts worn by female students that show excessive cleavage.
• Spaghetti strapped shirts, tank tops, muscle shirts, short skirts, tight clothing, midriff blouses, strapless and backless dresses and or shirts
• Tops/clothing that shows the midriff when sitting or standing or revealing clothing.
• Bandanas and/or other gang-related attire.
• Chains, spiked bracelets/necklaces or anything that may be a potential safety concern
• Pajamas or bedroom slippers are not permitted. Rubber sole moccasins are permitted
• Shorts, skorts, and skirts that are more than 2 inches above the knee
• Any roller blade type shoes (Heelies)
• No hats or head covering are allowed to be worn in the building.
• Coats and backpacks are not to be worn during the school day.

Other items not specified below because of changing fashions, but are deemed inappropriate or dangerous by the administration:

• Boys: Tank tops with baggy armpits are not allowed to be worn. Undershirts are to be worn under shirts, not as shirts.  We also ask that you pull your pants up and make certain that your underwear is not showing.

·         Girls: There is to be no skin showing between the bottom of your shirt and the top of your skirt, shorts, or pants.  This means that no skin is to show even if you are raising your arms.  Spaghetti strap tops are not allowed in school.  Some shirts with straps are okay because the strap is thick enough and the cut under the arm high enough not to be a distraction.  In addition, you are welcome to wear shorts to school but they need to conform to the length stated above.

If any item of clothing is viewed as inappropriate, students will be asked to fix the problem immediately.  This may be done by turning T-shirts inside out or by removing the item.

Footwear

Safety and cleanliness with regard to footwear is our primary concern.  The foot should be protected from items that may fall on them.  Footwear must be secured to both feet.  Flip-flops, and thong-type sandals that expose student’s bare feet to injury are not permitted.

Lost and Found

Articles unclaimed after a reasonable period of time will be donated to the Salvation Army.

Lockers and belongings

• Student lockers are the property of the Athol-Royalston Regional School District and remain under control of the school.
• The school reserves the right to inspect any locker at any time without student consent and without a search warrant.  When it is possible the search will be conducted in the student’s presence.
• Students are expected to assume full responsibility for the locker and its contents.
• Students will sign a locker usage form when the locker is used.  A school lock will be provided.
• Locker combinations are to be kept confidential and students must not share combinations with other students.
• Students are cautioned not to bring large amounts of money or other valuables to school, and if they wear glasses or watches, to keep track of them at all times.
• The students, not the school, are responsible for their personal property.
• The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Book bags and Backpacks

Book bags and backpacks must be stored in student lockers.  They are not to be carried throughout the day.

Recreational / Personal Items

·         All electronics and cell phones should be turned off and securely stored in locker.  If any of these items are found either visible or in use, they will be confiscated and returned only to a parent or guardian. 

·         Skateboards/Scooters must be stored during the school day.

·         Squirt guns, toy guns or knives, playing or trading cards, or other distracting items are not permitted on campus at any time.

·         Matches and lighters are not allowed at ARMS for safety reasons.  If any found in a student’s possession, it will result in (ISS or OSS)

Cell phones

• Cell phones are to be kept turned off and securely stored in lockers. If found either visible or in use, it will be confiscated and returned only to a parent or guardian.
• Improper cell phone use, (texting, photography, talking) will initiate a consequence.  Some improper use may be considered illegal and be referred to legal authorities.
• Cell phones (texting) are not allowed on extended, overnight field trips

Bicycles/Scooters/Skateboards

Racks are provided for parking bicycles.  The school is not responsible for damage or theft of bicycles or parts.  Bicycles are to be parked upon arrival at school and are not to be used until the end of the school day, and only after the buses have left the campus. Students are reminded that the Massachusetts General law requires helmets.  A helmet is also recommended for skateboards and scooters.

Scooters and skateboards are to only be stored in the designated area. Students are not allowed to use scooters or skateboards on Middle School grounds beginning at the school sign near the parking lot entrance, and not until after the buses have left the campus after school.  For safety reasons, students may not ride scooters or skateboards on school property beginning at the intersection of Pleasant Street.

After school, walkers may not leave the Middle School campus until after the buses have left.  Students are expected to use the sidewalk.  No short cuts through the woods or paths are allowed.

Change of Address

Please be sure to inform the Main Office if there is a change of residence including custody, address, or telephone number during the school year. This is necessary for permanent records, as well as for the report cards, newsletters, post cards, and other mailings. An accurate record of your child’s information is essential to communicate with you and those who the custodial parent chooses in the event they cannot be reached.

Directory Information

Directory information is defined as: name, address, telephone number, date of birth, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight, height of members of athletic team, dates of attendance, and awards. Athol-Royalston Middle School reserves the right to exercise this judgment in releasing such directory information to requesting agencies, institutions, and individuals. It is the policy of this school to protect its students from invasion of privacy. The school will not release information when it is to be used for solicitation.

Delayed opening and school closing

In the event of a storm or hazardous road conditions or other emergencies requiring schools to be closed.  Families will be alerted by the One Call System.  No school or delayed openings will also be given over radio stations: Eagle (99.9 FM) in Orange, WJDF (97.3 FM) in Orange, WWLP (TV 22) in Springfield, WGGB (TV 40) in Springfield, WCVB (TV 5), WBZ (TV 4) in Boston, Fox Channel (TV 25), and CBS (TV 7).

Morning announcements

Information is provided in many different formats.  It is the student’s responsibility to listen to all announcements.

Telephone calls

Classroom phones may be used by students with permission from the classroom teacher.  School phones are not to be used for social calls. Incoming telephone calls or messages for students should be made on an emergency basis only.  The occasional emergency message will be delivered to the student’s classroom as soon as possible.

Student records

Individual student records are on file in the school.  They are open to parental review upon written request.  The Principal will act on this request within two days.

Visitors

General Procedures

Doors to the school will be locked during school hours.  Visitors must ring the bell to be admitted into the school.  Upon entering the school, all visitors must sign in at the main office and will be issued a visitor’s pass.  Parents/guardians are encouraged to visit the school and should contact the school to arrange details.

Students from other schools will not be permitted into the building during school hours.

Substitute teachers

A substitute teacher is an important visitor whose impressions of our school will be carried into the community.  Let us be certain that these are good impressions by being polite, helpful, respectful, and considerate.  Students know what is expected when their regular teacher is present and no less is expected when a substitute teacher is with us for the day.

Athol-Royalston Middle School

Non-Negotiable Building Rules

·                     No student or group of students will interfere with or interrupt

                a teacher’s instruction.

·                 Hallway behavior must be safe and appropriate.  No running,    roughhousing or physical contact.

·                 Cell phones, MP3 players/Walkmans/I pods, etc. may not be     used in the building at any time. These items must be turned     off, securely stored in lockers.

·            Students must have hall passes when in the halls during class time.

·                 Students will dress appropriately and follow the school dress    code

Health Issues

The school nurse’s function is to establish a comprehensive school health program consistent with the Massachusetts guidelines, regulations and statues governing nursing, school health, and local school district policy.

Health Screening

Health screenings shall be performed annually.

·          All students are screened yearly for vision and hearing loss; and height and weight is recorded.

·          Postural screening is provided to all students grade 6 through 8.  If a parent or guardian refuses to have postural screening done by the school physician, written documentation provided by the family physician must be submitted to the school nurse.

·          Physical exams are required for 7^th grade students and are required annually for all students before participation in competitive sports.  The school physician will be available to perform these exams, with parental permission.  The parent or guardian of any student with an area of concern discovered during these screenings shall be notified in writing for follow-up and/or evaluation.  Physician’s evaluations should be returned to the nurse to be filed in the student’s permanent health record.

Illness/Injury

Students who are ill or injured must receive a pass from their teacher, and report to the Nurse’s Office or the Main Office if the school nurse is unavailable.  At no time should a student administer treatment to another student. If the school nurse or administration finds it necessary to dismiss a student due to health reasons such as illness or accident, a parent/guardian will be notified. A parent/guardian or authorized person must pick up the student at the main office. Early dismissal rules must be followed at this point.

Immunizations

State law requires the following immunizations:

5^th and 6^th grade:

• 3 doses Hepatitis B
• At least 4 doses DTP (Diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus)
• At least 3 doses polio vaccine
• 2 doses MMR (2 doses measles, 1 mumps, 1 rubella)
• Physician certified reliable history of chickenpox or 1 or 2 doses of varicella vaccine

(1 dose if < 13 yrs. of age:  2 doses if  >13 yrs. of age)

7^th and 8^th grade:

• 3 doses Hepatitis B
• 4 doses DTP
• 1 dose Td booster (tetanus) or Tdap if a dose of DTP, Dt, or DTaP has not been given within the past 5 years.
• At lease 3 doses Polio
• 2 doses MMR (2 doses measles, 1 mumps, 1 rubella)
• Physician certified reliable history of chickenpox or 1 or 2 doses of varicella vaccine

(1 dose if < 13 yrs. of age:  2 doses if  >13 yrs. of age)

Medication administration

Ideally, all medication should be given at home.  If your child’s physician feels it is necessary to receive medication during the school hours, the school must receive the following:

1. A signed consent by the parent or guardian to give the medicine.
2. A signed medication order from your child’s licensed prescriber.

Both of these forms are available from the school nurse and must be returned by the parent/guardian with the medication in a pharmacy or manufactured labeled container.  This is applicable for all prescription and over the counter medication.  No more than a thirty-day (30) supply of the medicine should be delivered to the school.  Students are not allowed to carry any medication with them during school hours. A student will be allowed to carry an inhaler on his/her person provided the school nurse determines it is safe and appropriate and there is a physician’s order to do so.  Designated school staff may dispense medication when authorized to do so.

Medical excuses

Medical excuses are required for those students who cannot participate in physical education classes.  A parental note will suffice for one gym class.  After that, a note from a physician with the medical diagnoses, specifying the length and extent of the excused absence, must be submitted.

Use of elevator for medical reasons

If a student has a medical reason for using the school elevator, he/she must report to the nurse’s office and receive a written pass to use the elevator.

Academics

Academic Honesty

Cheating is to act dishonestly, to trick, or mislead regarding one’s schoolwork. Plagiarism is taking another person’s ideas, writings, or work, and passing it off as one’s own.  Any form of cheating or plagiarism is an act of dishonesty and is strictly prohibited.  All students involved in such dishonesty are in violation of this rule and are subject to disciplinary action.

Cheating/Plagiarism includes:

1. Copying of another student’s test paper or any other school assignment
2. Using material during a test which is not authorized by the person giving the test
3. Knowingly using, buying, selling, stealing, transporting, or soliciting, in whole or part, the contents of a test or other assignment
4. Substituting for another student or permitting another student to substitute for one’s self to take a test or complete an assignment
5. Bribing another person to obtain a test or other assignment that is to be administered
6. Securing copies of a test or answers to a test or other assignment in advance of a test or assignment
7. Copying or copy and pasting information from print or Internet sources without proper citation (See Computer Technology Rules #13).

Benchmarks and targets

Students have benchmarks in all subjects, which are tied to the state curricula, high school expectations, and real world requirements.

Extra help

Students or parents may seek extra help from teachers if the student does not understand an assignment, if the work is difficult, or if they have been absent and have missed assignments and class discussions. A late bus (approximate 2:50 p.m. departure) is provided on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays to common stops in Athol and Royalston.

Homework

There is always something to do each night.  Students at least should be studying, reviewing, copying notes, reading, and organizing notebooks.  Nightly assignments and studying usually requires one and one half hours.

If a student is absent from school for one day, he/she may make arrangements with classmates, use the homework hotline, or speak with the teachers the next day to get assignments or classroom notes.  It is very difficult for the office to collect work for one day.  If he/she will be absent for more than one day, parents/guardians may contact the Main Office.  Homework requested through the Main Office is often not available until the next day.

Homework Hotline

If you have a concern about homework, contact the homework hotline (978-249-2430) and then dial your child’s teacher’s extension number for daily assignments after 3:30 p.m.

Teachers try to coordinate homework and tests so that there is a balance.

The purpose of homework is to:

• Reinforce school learning by providing practice and application
• Develop reading ability and speed.
• Offer practice in budgeting time.
• Help students learn how to learn by reinforcing the study skills and techniques taught.
• Offer opportunities for enriching the school experience through related home activities.
• Stimulate voluntary effort, initiative, independence, responsibility, and self- direction.
• Include creative work and primary research, which requires more time than is available in class, and which may be opportunities for purposeful use of leisure time.
• Meet a need for extra study or drill in subjects where students are having difficulty.
• Reinforce school learning by providing practice and application

Honor Roll

Honor Roll – all classes are used for determining honor roll each quarter.                        

Gold                 Straight A’s

Silver                All A’s and B’s (no grade lower than an 80%)

Bronze              All A’s and B’s with one C of 75% or higher permitted.

There is a special honors event held in June for honor roll students in good standing. To be invited to the 5^th, 6^th and 7^th grade Honors Breakfast, a student needs to have made silver, or gold honor roll 2 of the first 3 terms. To be invited to the 8^th grade Honors Dinner a student needs to have made silver or gold honor roll 2 of the first 3 terms.  In all cases, students receiving more than one “C” (any grade below 80%) during the school year will not qualify for this event.

Make-up Work

Make-up work is the student’s responsibility. If a student is absent for one day, he/she may make arrangements with classmates, use the homework hotline, or speak with their teachers the next day to get assignments or class notes.  If s/he will be absent for more than one day, parents/guardians may contact the main office to request the homework assignments for the time the student will be out. Homework requested through the main office is often available by the end of the day. Make-up work takes precedence over all extra-curricular activities including sports.

National Junior Honor Society

To be eligible to apply for the ARMS National Junior Honor Society, 7^th and 8^th grade students must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 85 or better.  They must have no serious discipline issues.  Students may be removed from NJHS for academic or disciplinary reasons.  Students must also complete an application form on which they identify their participation in community service and leadership activities. Selection is made by a committee of teachers and administrators who rate the entire application package. Only those truly outstanding students in the areas of knowledge, leadership, service, and character are selected to the ARMS National Junior Honor Society.

Report cards

Quarterly report cards are distributed in November, February, April, and June.

Progress reports will be issued to all students with a grade of 70 or below at least once halfway through the marking period

Teachers assign grades to report all aspects of a student’s classroom performance: effort, achievement, homework, class work, and tests as well as special requirements that vary from class to class.

Separate grades will be given for conduct.  Criteria include responsibility, self-control, respect for others, organization and preparation of work, attention, class participation, and use of time.  Conduct will be graded as follows.      

            5          =          Superior

            4          =          Above Average

            3          =          Average

            2          =          Improvement Required

            1          =          Unsatisfactory

A student is a candidate for retention if he/she fails two (2) or more major subjects (English/Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science, and Unified Arts collective average) with a grade below 60 for the school year.  Parents will be notified in writing at the beginning of the second semester if their child is in danger of being retained.  Input from teachers, guidance personnel, parents, and the school administration will be sought; however, the final decision for retention rests with the administration.

A student who successfully completes a summer school program that is approved by the ARMS administration may be reconsidered for promotion.

Any eighth grade student who fails two or more subjects as listed previously will not be allowed to participate in the end of the year step-up ceremony.

Supplies and materials

Paper, notebooks, pens, pencils, etc., will not be supplied by the school.  Students are expected to come to school prepared with supplies necessary to complete ordinary assignments.  Students who continually show up unprepared will be assigned detentions/appropriate disciplinary action.

Textbooks

All students are expected to cover their textbooks and to replace the book jacket if it becomes worn during the school year.  If a textbook is misused, a fee will be charged to repair the book.  If a textbook is lost, it is to be paid for and another book will be issued. 

A STUDENTS RIGHT TO LEARN

All students have the right to learn in a disruption free environment.

Removal from a course

A student who frequently violates classroom rules, repeatedly disrupts the educational decorum of a class, or presents a safety hazard may be removed from the course.  Prior to removing a student from a course, attempts will be initiated to improve the student’s behavior.

• Develop relationship with students
• Called parents
• Consult guidance
• Child study meeting held after DCAP
• Parent Meeting
• Child study
• Create DCAP

Alternative Classroom Setting

Students who continually disrupt the educational process in the classroom, and prevent other students from learning may be assigned to our Alternative Classroom for a period of time until the student learns to modify their disruptive behavior.  Parents/guardians will be involved in this process with the goal of returning the student to the regular classroom setting.

Students who have earned one or more regular classroom courses integrated into their alternative program and are in good standing may be allowed by the Principal or Vice Principal to take part in extra curricular activities.

Library

The middle school library is a learning center.  The print and non-print materials are meant for student study, research, and browsing. The library is to be used in an orderly quiet manner. There are rules posted by the librarian, which must be followed. The following guidelines are to be followed at all times:

• When you arrive at the library, check in at the main desk and present your library pass to the librarian.
• You may not take materials out of the library unless you check them out through the librarian.
• When you are ready to leave the library, please check out at the main desk with the librarian.
• Other library rules are posted in the library. Please become familiar with these.

Athletics and Activities

Athletics

Interscholastic sports are an important piece of the middle school experience.  Students are encouraged to participate in grades 6, 7, and 8.  Student eligibility for participation on interscholastic teams includes authorization by the school physician, written parent consent, and endorsement by the school Principal based on established school and MIAA rules.

Sports Teams

Subject to funding, teams may include the following: Baseball, Basketball, Cheerleading, Field Hockey, Football, Soccer, Softball, Track and Field, and Wrestling.  User fees may apply.

Student spectators

Students are welcome to attend athletic competitions but must leave school at their dismissal time and return for the start of the game. Appropriate school behavior is expected at all athletic events. All school rules apply at these events.

Clubs and Activities

Various clubs and activities may be offered throughout the school year.  Students will be made aware of and may participate in activities/clubs that are offered.

Field trips

Teachers will provide students with a permission slip for field trips.  These forms must be returned to the teacher prior to the day of the field trip. Students are expected to follow all school rules when on a field trip. A student who has consistently demonstrated poor attendance, continual tardiness, attitude or behavior problems, or who has not completed the required work may not be permitted to go on a field trip.  This decision is up to the school administrator.

Computer Technology Rules

The middle school has one computer lab in Room 211, one in the library, one in Tech Ed in Room 111, and computers in each classroom, all of which are networked and have Internet capability.  All students must have a signed Internet Use Contract on file at the Middle School in order to use the Internet. It is important that students abide by the District’s Computer and Internet Acceptable Use Policies.  Even after you and your parent/guardian have signed the user Contract, you should regularly review the policy.  You may view a copy of the Computer and Internet Use Policy on the ARMS website at www.arms2000.org.

We encourage you to use the computers at the school to do your work: writing and research assignments as well as other assignments that teachers have developed that use technology. The computers are available to students throughout the day as well as after school when a student is supervised by one of our teachers.  Computers may not be used in a classroom when a substitute teacher is in charge of the room.

 Absolutely no food or drink at the computers.

If a student violates any of the District’s Acceptable Internet use rules, applicable state and federal laws, or posted classroom or middle school

computer rules, the student may be subject to the loss of computer privileges and any other district disciplinary options as determined by the administration.

Internet access is coordinated through a complex association of government agencies and regional networks.  The operation of the Internet relies heavily on the proper conduct of the users, who must adhere to strict guidelines. The district staff has the right and obligation to monitor student Internet activities. Please remember that Internet access at the middle school is a privilege, not a right.

Personal computers, pen drives, disks, or other storage devices may not be brought to school. Students needing to print a document from home should see Ms. Harris in room 211.

Computer Use Policies

Students shall not:

1. Attempt to access or send email
2. Attempt to access chat rooms or personal gathering websites
3. Access or type in any Internet address (URL) unless directed to do so by their teacher and is for a legitimate educational purpose. This includes selecting inappropriate links
4. Reveal their account password or shall not permit or authorize any other person to use their name or login password.
5. Gain unauthorized entry into a file, either to read or change information or transfer files
6. Use another individual’s account or vandalize another user’s data
7. Degrade damage or disrupt equipment or system performance
8. Gain unauthorized access to network resources
9. Download, install or load programs or disks
10. Use the network to access and/or transmit material in violation of any U.S. or Commonwealth law, including copyrighted material     
11. Access, download, display, transmit, produce, generate, copy or propagate any material that is obscene or pornographic material; that advocates illegal acts, that contains ethnic slurs, or racial epithets; or that discriminates on the basis of gender, national origin, sexual orientation, race, religion, ethnicity, handicap or age
12. Use of the Internet for personal commercial activities, product advertisement or political lobbying

Students must:

13. Provide proper citations for all information taken from the Internet; plagiarism is prohibited.
14. Treat all computers and equipment with the utmost care and respect.
15. Be aware of potential security risks at all times and take all reasonable steps to minimize risks by, at a minimum, logging off the network when a computer is unattended, and reporting all unauthorized use of one’s account to the computer coordinator, Mrs. Harris in Room 211.
16. Respect commonly accepted practices of computer network etiquette:  Do not watch when others type in their passwords.  Be polite.  Do not use vulgar or obscene language. 
17. When using the Internet, do not give out personal information; reveal your home address, telephone number, or the telephone numbers of others.
18. Use the Internet and other electronic resources only for legitimate educational purposes consistent curriculum.
19. Access the Internet only with adult supervision, and notify a teacher or Ms. Harris, the computer coordinator in Room 211 immediately if you come across inappropriate content.

The Internet is a great resource for knowledge, but it can also be an inappropriate and even dangerous place for children. Follow the rules for safe Internet use. Talk about your activities on the Internet with your parents/guardians, teachers and administrators.  If you encounter problems, notify them immediately.

Dance Rules

Dances are meant to be fun.  It is everyone’s hope that no problems arise.  BUT just in case, we want everyone to know the rules.

1.                    Staff members and parents serving as chaperones have complete authority at dances and their directions are to be followed.

2.                    No student may leave the dance early without the permission from the staff member in charge of the event. If permission is granted, a student must call home and have a parent come to the school entrance before being allowed to leave.

3.                    All school rules apply – such as no profanity, no public display of affection, no rough housing, no hats, and no inappropriate clothing, etc. (see dress code) Any violation of student handbook rules and regulations may mean removal from dance and follow up action with parents.

4.                    Students must wear shoes at all times that conform to school rules.

5.                    No guests from outside Athol-Royalston Middle School are allowed.

6.                    No moshing allowed – deliberate bumping and tossing of bodies too close.

7.                    Any use of alcohol, or drugs, inappropriate substances or possession of a weapon will mean immediate removal from the dance by police.

8.                    Students must attend school on the day of the dance in order to be able to go to the dance and must not be assigned to in-house suspension on the day of the dance.

Drugs, alcohol, intoxicants, smoking, weapons

·         Students may not possess alcohol, drugs or other intoxicants.

·         Students may not be under the influence of alcohol, drugs or other intoxicants.

·         All pills or other forms of prescription and non-prescription drugs are banned.

·         Any substance used as an intoxicant is banned.

·         All medicines and drugs prescribed by a physician must be dispensed only under the supervision of the school health office.

·         The school building and grounds may be searched by trained police dogs if deemed necessary by school administration.

Drug, alcohol or intoxicant incidents

If, in light of reasonable suspicion, it becomes necessary to question a student, the following process will be followed:

·         The administrator or designee will hold a conference/interview with student regarding the issue. The investigation will continue as needed, which may include interviewing other students and/or searching the student and/or his/her locker with another adult present.

·         If necessary, the student will be given a GAZE NYSTAGMUS TEST (eye pupil dilation and movement test) by an administrator or nurse to determine eye response and its relationship to possible alcohol use.  Parents will be notified if there is an issue.  If the student refuses to cooperate with this test, the administrators without benefit of this information will make a judgment.

·         Once available information has been gathered, a collaborative conference will be held by the office administration to decide the course of action.

If, in the administrator’s judgment, the student is found to be in violation, the following steps will take place:

• Good faith effort will be made to notify parent/guardian or designated emergency adult.  Student is to be immediately removed from school by a parent /guardian.  If the school is unable to contact parent/guardian or designated emergency adult, or if said persons refuse to remove the student from school, the local police will be contacted and their usual procedures followed.
• The due process procedure contained in the Athol-Royalston Regional School District Handbook Supplement under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 71, section 37H and 37 H1/2 will be followed.

Drug Paraphernalia

Students may not be in possession of pipes, tools, papers, or other paraphernalia that the administration considers to be related to marijuana or other drug use.

Smoking/Tobacco Products

No one, including adults, is permitted to smoke on school grounds.  Students who are in possession of cigarettes, lighters, or matches, on school grounds will face disciplinary consequences. Parents will be notified.  The rule is simple: students are not to bring cigarettes, hold cigarettes or smoke a cigarette anywhere on school property.

Weapons

All weapons, including but not limited to knives or any kind of guns, are banned from school. This includes penknives, exacto knives, laser pointers any other dangerous objects that could be used as weapons

Fire Safety Rules

                     ·      Students may not possess or ignite matches, lighters, or other flaming devices.

                     ·      Students may not ignite any material except under supervised conditions, as, for example, in a laboratory experiment.

                     ·      Setting fire to any material or property will be considered arson.

                      ·      Students may not ignite or possess any incendiary device, firecracker, sparkler, stink bomb, etc. 

                      ·      Setting off a false fire alarm will be considered a criminal act as well as a violation of school rules.

Property Damage

It is against the law to deface or damage public school property or the property of others. Parents and students will be held accountable for damage costs.

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BULLYING

BULLYING IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED

ARMS complies with: Chapter 92 of the Acts of 2010. An Act relative to bullying in schools. Bullying is prohibited:

·         On school grounds

·         Property immediately adjacent to school grounds

·         At a school-sponsored or school related event

·         Function or program whether on or off school grounds

·         At a school bus stop, school bus, or other vehicle owned, leased, or used by a school district or school

·         Through the use of technology or an electrical device owned, leased, or used by a school district or school

·         At a location, activity, function, or program that is not school-related

·         Through the use of technology or an electronic device that is not owned, leased, or used by a school district or school.  If the bullying creates a hostile environment at a school for the victim, infringes on the rights of the victim at school or materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school.

Nothing contained herein shall require schools to staff any non- school related activities, functions, or programs.

Retaliation against a person who reports bullying, provides information during an investigation of bullying, or witnesses or has reliable information about bullying shall be prohibited.

Bullying is defined as the repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression or a physical act or gesture or any combination, directed at a victim that:

·         Causes physical or emotional harm to the victim or damage the victim’s property

·         Places the victim in reasonable fear of harm to himself or of damage to his property

·         Creates a hostile environment at school for the victim

·         Infringes on the rights of the victim at school

·         Materially and substantially disrupts the education process or the orderly operation of a school. For the purposes of this section, bullying shall include cyber-bullying.

CYBER BULLYING

Cyber-bullying is defined as bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, which shall include, but shall not be limited to, any transfer of:

·         signs

·         signals

·         writings

·         images

·         sounds

·         data

·         intelligence of any nature

Transmitted in whole or in part by:

·         wire

·         radio

·         electromagnetic,

·         photo electronic

·         photo optical system

Including but not limited to

·         electronic mail

·         internet communications

·         instant messaging

·         facsimile communication

Cyber-bullying shall also include:

·         the creation of a web page or blog in which the creator assumes the identity of another person

·         the knowing impersonation of another person as the author of posted content or messages

·         if the creation or impersonation creates any of the conditions enumerated in clauses posted content or messages

Cyber-bullying shall also include the distribution by electronic means of communication to more than one person or the posting of material on an electronic medium that may be accessed by one or more persons, if the distribution or posting creates any of the conditions enumerated in the previous list.

All Student/Faculty/Staff/Parents must make reports of bullying to the Principal and or Vice Principal. All bullying allegations will be handled within 24 hours. Reports of bullying or retaliations may be anonymous.

 Parents/Guardians of victims shall be notified.

Any Student/Faculty/Staff/Parent who knowingly makes a false accusation of bullying or retaliation is subject to disciplinary action.

HARASSMENT

Harassment in school occurs when a student or adult’s behavior or inappropriate language creates a hostile, offensive or intimidating school environment.   A single incident, depending on its severity, may constitute illegal harassment.

A hostile, offensive or intimidating school environment may be created by behaviors such as the following:

·         Degrading, demeaning, insulting or abusive verbal statements or writing of a sexual or racial nature or related to a student’s race, color, religion, national origin, ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation or disability;

·         Graffiti, slogans or other visual displays (such as swastikas and burning crosses) which contain racial, ethnic, religious slurs or insults based on the student’s gender, sexual orientation or disability; 

·         Treatment of a student in a more or less favorable way because the student submitted to or rejected sexual advances or requests for a social relationship; and

·         Unwelcome sexual advances, including same-gender harassment.

Sexual Harassment Policy

Sexual harassment in any form is strictly forbidden in school, on school grounds or at school related activities. Sexual harassment refers to behavior which is not welcome, which is personally offensive, which debilitates morale and which therefore interferes with work effectiveness and individual learning. Sexual harassment in the educational setting is also prohibited by law and is defined, in part, as follows with respect to students, “sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature…such conduct having the effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, humiliating or offensive environment. for the person towards whom the harassment is directed.  Any student who believes he/she is a victim of sexual harassment should talk to the building principal or another adult in the school.

HATE CRIMES

You have the right to attend school without being the victim of physical violence, threats of harm, intimidation or damage to your personal property.  A hate crime occurs when you or a fellow student is targeted for physical assault, threat of bodily harm or intimidation, at least in part because you are a member of a different race, color, religion, ethnic background, national origin, gender or sexual orientation from the offender or because you have a disability.

Certain types of language or conduct may indicate that a hate crime has occurred.  Some indicators that a crime was hate-motivated include:

                     ·          Use of racial, ethnic, religious, sexual or anti-gay slurs;

                     ·          Use of symbols of hate, such as a swastika or a burning cross;

                     ·          Similar behavior by the wrongdoer towards other students from the same racial, ethnic     or religious group or against students of the same sexual orientation or gender; and

                     ·          The incident occurs while the victim was participating in an activity promoting a racial, religious, ethnic/national origin, disability, gender or sexual orientation group, such as attending a meeting of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), a students’ gay rights alliance, or a disability rights demonstration.

Hate crimes most frequently occur in the following ways:

                     ·          A physical attack or a threat of bodily harm, on the basis of a student’s race, color, religion, national origin, ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation or disability;

                     ·          Intimidating or threatening language based on a student’s race, color religion, national origin, ethnic gender, sexual orientation or disability;

                     ·          Damage to a student’s personal property or belongings because of the student’s race, color, religion, national origin, ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation or disability.

Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken when there is a violation of the hate crime policy/rules.  All disciplinary actions are at the discretion of the administration.  These may range from a warning, to lunch suspension, to in-school suspension, to out of school suspension.

Erasing Hate

A Guide to Your Civil Rights in School:

Your Right to be Free From Discrimination, Harassment, and Hate-Motivated Violence

Attorney General Martha Coakley

One Ashburton Place

Boston, MA  02108

617.727.2200

www.ago.state.ma.us

By joining together, we can erase hatred in our schools.  I believe that all of us – students, teachers, school administrators, and law enforcement officials – share the responsibility to create a safe, diverse, and positive, learning environment that prepares young people for the world of the 21^st century.  We must celebrate our people for the world of the 21^st century.  We must celebrate our differences and applaud our diversity.

You have the right to learn in an environment that is free from hate-motivated violence, harassment, and discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.  This guide is designed to inform you of the laws protecting you against hate based crimes, as well as the resources available for reporting bias-motivated harassment, discrimination, or violence.

I am confident that, working together, we can ensure that all students in Massachusetts have access to an educational experience free from harassment and victimization by hate crimes.

Sincerely,

Martha Coakley

Malicious Physical Abuse or Assault

A student who abuses others and with whom normal school disciplinary action is not effective may be subject to a complaint filed by school officials with District Court or local police.

A student who clearly assaults another may be subject to a complaint filed with District Court or local police.

Any intentional act, which results in the serious abuse or injury of another individual may be considered an assault or assault and battery and treated accordingly by notifying police.

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Breakfast and Lunch Program

Breakfast and lunch are served daily by the cafeteria staff.  Students eligible for the federal school breakfast and lunch program are encouraged to apply at any time during the year. Forms are provided in the opening of school packet of information but can be requested at any time.  Forms also may be found on the ARRSD website.  Anyone needing help with forms please contact the Principal’s Office.

Beverages

Water or drinking bottles, or open containers of any kind are not permitted in school during school hours.

Lunch Rules

1.                    Students must show respect to all cafeteria workers at all times.

2.                    Students are not allowed to leave their seats except to get lunch, return their tray, and at dismissal time.

3.                    Only eight students are allowed per table, four on each side.

4.                    Students may not take food out of the cafeteria.

5.                    All lunches must be eaten in the cafeteria, unless designated by the Principal.

6.                    Students should not be in the academic areas during lunch.

7.                    Students may not throw, toss, or forcefully slide food or drink.

8.                    Students must follow lunch supervisors’ and cafeteria workers’ directions in the food lines and at all times during lunch.

9.                    Students must walk quietly to and from lunch staying to the right in the hallways.

10.                 Gum is not permitted in the cafeteria.

11.                 Students must follow all other school rules while in the lunchroom.

Appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken when there is a violation of the lunch rules.  All disciplinary actions are at the discretion of the administration.  These may range from a warning, to lunch suspension, to in school suspension, to out of school suspension.

Selling Gum/Candy Etc.

Selling of any gum, candy, soda, snacks, etc. in school is not allowed by students unless under the direct supervision of a teacher.  Selling of anything for personal profit is strictly against school rules.

Disciplinary Terms used at the Middle School

Disciplinary Referral Slip

If a student is sent out of a classroom for disciplinary reasons, he/she must report directly to ISS.  The teacher will also send a white Request for Administrative Assistance form to the office explaining the problem. The Assistant Principal or Principal will process this discipline slip with the student and consequences may follow.  A copy of the discipline slip will be returned to the teacher and parent explaining the action taken within 48 hours.

Teacher Detention

If a student is late to class or has other behavioral problems, or has not completed an assignment in a timely manner, the teacher may assign the student an after school detention.  The teacher may also inform your parents of the situation. It is required that the students show up for this detention.

Suspension code

The Principal or Assistant Principal, or designee may suspend a student for acts of a serious nature.

Some acts for which suspension may be considered are as follows:

1.                    Open or persistent defiance of authority and/or school rules and regulations.  This includes failure to report to the main office

2.                    Not complying with a teacher’s request

3.                    Threatening, striking, and/or assaulting a student

4.                    Threat of physical assault on another student or school employee

5.                    Damaging or defacing the property of students, teachers, or the school district, including computer hardware and software

6.                    Profanity/Obscenity (word, materials, gesture, writing, drawing, or deed)

7.                    Verbal harassing, intimidating, or provoking another student

8.                    Theft or attempted theft

9.                    Failure to abide by corrective measures, such as detention for previous acts of misconduct

10.                 Possession or use of tobacco or smoking products-lighters, matches

11.                 Possession or use of alcohol, drugs or intoxicants

12.                 Possession of weapons or dangerous objects or substances

13.                 Gambling in any form

14.                 Leaving school without permission (Students must sign out with office personnel before leaving campus.)

15.                 Cutting class or leaving class without permission

16.                 Being truant from school

17.                 Continually being deceitful, i.e., lying and/or forging information

18.                 Harassment-gender, sexual, physical, hate, speech

19.                 Hazing

20.                 Certain computer violations

21.                 Unauthorized use of the elevator

22.                 Possession of disruptive products

23.                 Releasing strong or obnoxious odors

24.                 Bullying

Suspension procedures

All students referred to the office for disciplinary reasons will receive due process.  The following procedure will be implemented in cases of suspension:

1.                    Notify the student of the charge against him/her

2.                    Explain the evidence against him/her

3.                    Give student the opportunity to present his/her story and explain the situation

4.                    Notify parent-guardian by phone or phone message, letter, or in person

5.                    Hold conference with all concerned parties

6.                    Impose removal from class or school for up to ten (10) days through internal or external suspension

7.                    Impose additional consequences if appropriate. These include: revoking extracurricular privileges from the time of student notification until reinstatement in school; notify police when required by law and/or school policy.

8.                    Request parent/guardians to accompany student upon return to school.

Expulsion Code

The Principal or school district can expel a student for serious acts.

(a) Any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, in possession of a dangerous weapon, including, but not limited to, a gun or a knife; or a controlled substance as defined in chapter ninety-four C, including, but not limited to, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal.

(b) Any student who assaults a Principal, Assistant Principal, teacher, teacher’s aide or other educational staff on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the Principal.

(c) Any student who is charged with a violation of either paragraph (a) or (b) shall be notified in writing of an opportunity for a hearing; provided, however, that the student may have representation, along with the opportunity to present evidence and witnesses at said hearing before the principal.

After said hearing, a principal may, in his discretion, decide to suspend rather than expel a student who has been determined by the principal to have violated either paragraph (a) or (b).

(d) Any student who has been expelled from a school district pursuant to these provisions shall have the right to appeal to the Superintendent. The expelled student shall have ten days from the date of the expulsion in which to notify the Superintendent of his appeal. The student has the right to counsel at a hearing before the superintendent. The subject matter of the appeal shall not be limited solely to a factual determination of whether the student has violated any provisions of this section.

(e) When a student is expelled under the provisions of this section, no school or school district within the Commonwealth shall be required to admit such student or to provide educational services to said student. If said student does apply for admission to another school or school district, the Superintendent of the school district to which the application is made may request and shall receive from the Superintendent of the school expelling said student a written statement of the reasons for said expulsion. The ARRSD Handbook Supplement contains the full procedural requirements for expulsion under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 71, sections 37H and 37H1/2.

Chapter 71, Section 37H1/2

Felony Complaint or Conviction of Student; Suspension;

Expulsion; Right to Appeal

Notwithstanding the provisions of section eighty-four and sections sixteen and seventeen of chapter seventy-six:

(1) Upon the issuance of a criminal complaint against a student, the principal or headmaster of a school in which the student is enrolled may suspend such student for a period of time determined appropriate by said principal or headmaster if said principal or headmaster determines that the student’s continued presence in school would have a substantial detrimental effect on the general welfare of the school.  The student shall receive written notification of the charges and the reasons for such suspension prior to such suspension taking effect.  The student shall also receive written notification of this right to appeal and the process for appealing such suspension; provided, however, that such suspension shall remain in effect prior to any appeal hearing conducted by the superintendent.

 The student shall have the right to appeal the suspension to the superintendent.  The student shall notify the superintendent in writing of his request for an appeal no later than five calendar days following the effective date of the suspension.  The superintendent shall hold a hearing with the student and the student’s parent or guardian within three calendar days of the student’s request for an appeal.  At the hearing, the student shall have the right to present oral and written testimony on his behalf, and shall have the right to counsel.  The superintendent shall have the authority to overturn or alter the decision of the principal or headmaster, including recommending an alternate educational program for the student.  The superintendent shall render a decision on the appeal within five calendar days of the hearing.  Such decision shall be the final decision of the city, town or regional school district with regard to the suspension.

(2) Upon a student being convicted of a felony or upon an adjudication or admission in court of guilt with respect to such a felony or felony delinquency, the principal or headmaster of a school in which the student is enrolled may expel said student if such principal or headmaster determines that the student’s continued presence in school would have a substantial detrimental effect on the general welfare of the school.  The student shall receive written notification of the charges and reasons for such expulsion prior to such expulsion taking effect.  The student shall also receive written notifications of this right to appeal and the process for appealing such expulsion; provided, however, that the expulsion shall remain in effect prior to any appeal hearing conducted by the superintendent

The student shall have the right to appeal the expulsion to the superintendent.  The student shall notify the superintendent, in writing, of his request for an appeal no later than five calendar days following the effective date of the expulsion.  The superintendent shall hold a hearing with the student and the student’s parent or guardian within three calendar days of the expulsion.  At the hearing, the student shall have the right to present oral and written testimony on his behalf, and shall have the right to counsel.  The superintendent shall have the authority to overturn or alter the decision of the principal or headmaster, including recommending an alternate educational program for the student.  The superintendent shall render a decision on the appeal within five calendar days of the hearing.  Such decision shall be the final decision of the city, town, or regional school district with regard to the expulsion.

Upon expulsion of such student, no school or school district shall be required to provide educational services to the student. Added by St.1993, c380, s2.

Disciplining students with special needs

All students are expected to meet the requirement set forth in the student handbook. Chapter 71B of the Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 766 and IDEA as amended in 1997 and 2004 requires that additional provisions be made for students who have been found by an Evaluation Team to have special needs and whose program is described in an Individualized Educational Program.

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 ARMS STAFF LISTING EXTENSIONS

Allen, Eileen------------Grade 7-----------------------------------2206

Begin, Kathy----------- Social Worker---------------------------5108

Bertrand, Laureen------Special Education-Grade 6------------5129

Brouillet, Erica---------Principal----------------------------------5102

Castonguay, Marcia----In House Suspension Para Prof.------1107

Cooley, Angie----------Physical Education----------------------5124

Daly, Jerry--------------Grade 8-----------------------------------1108

Deasy, Mike------------Title I-------------------------------------2204

Deleo, Jim---------------Grade 6-------------------------------- 3301

DeVault, Buni----------Paraprofessional-----------------------7006*

Dickson, Bob-----------Grade 6----------------------------------3302

Drew, Cindy------------Special Education-Grade 7-----------3307

Eastman, Deb-----------Title I---------------------------------- -7003*

Eliasz, Christine---------Speech---------------------------5127/5128

Erickson, Patty---------Principal’s Secretary-------------------5106

Gauvin, Matt------------Grade 6----------------------------------3303

Gill, Brian---------------Engineering Technology-------1111/1113

Gladden, Colleen-------Mrs. Drew’s Para Specialist---------7001*

Gospodarek, Beth------ESL--------------------------------------7000*

Harris, Linda------------Computers------------------------------5112

Hunter, Scott------------Grade 8----------------------------------1104

LaBombarde, Patricia--Assistant Principal-------------------- 5103

LaRose, Bill-------------Grade 7----------------------------------1104 

Leander, Mike---------- Grade 6----------------------------------3305

Lewandowski, Tina----Life Skills Room----------------------- 3313

Litchfield, Marianne---Art--------------------------------------- -2213

McLaren, Barbara-------Grade 5----------------------------------3308

Miller, Judi---------------Grade 7----------------------------------2202

Moore, Mary-------------Grade 7----------------------------------2201

Otto, Karen---------------Foreign Language---------------------2209

Patterson, Elly-----------Alternative Room----------------------1109

Piragis, Deb--------------Grade 8----------------------------------1106

Piscitello, Alecia---------Band/Music/Chorus------------------5110

Progen, Shawn-----------Custodian----------------------------- 7011*

Quinton, Joseph---------Guidance Counselor-------------------5105

Quinton, Sally------------Nurse-----------------------------------5104

Reed, Grace--------------1 on 1 Paraprofessional--------------7012*

Robertson, Robyn-------Grade 5---------------------------------3306

Rogers, Carol------------Attendance Secretary------------------5101

Rogers, Kevin-----------Grade 8----------------------------------1105

Russell, Theresa---------Night Custodian----------------------7015*

Sanderson, Bill---------- Head Custodian-----------------------5125

Sawin, Joy----------------Cafeteria Manager--------------------5111

Sheridan, Bob-----------Alternative Room Para Specialist--7013*

Simkewicz, Lauren------Health----------------------------------3311

Starkey, Chuck-----------Part Time Night Custodian---------7007*

Stone, Sally---------------Grade 6--------------------------------3304

Strong, Melissa-----------Grade 7--------------------------------3307

Talley, Anne----------- --Grade 8--------------------------------1102

Tenney, Lisa--------------Special Education-Grade 7---------7010*

Triozzi, Dave-------------Grade 8--------------------------------1101

Voutila, Cindy----------- Grade 7--------------------------------2205

Wessel, Doug-------------Special Education-Grade 8---------5116

Winters, Sue--------------Librarian-Para Specialist-----4007/5123

Woessner, Mike----------Physical Education------------------5114

Ziguloski, Jamie----------Special Education Para-------------7004*

*Means that the extension is a mailbox only.  You must dial 5451 then 7000#

    (An updated listing will be sent in your first newsletter)

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INDEX

A Students Right to Learn………………………………….Pg 22

Absences………………………………………………….......... 6

Academic Honesty……………………………………….….....18

Administration……………………………………………..... …2

Alternative Classroom Setting………………………….….......23

ARMS Staff Listing Extensions…………………………....….40

Arrival/Departure Times………………………………….…......6

Athletics………………………………………………………..23

Athol Royalston Regional School Committee Members….........5

Athol-Royalston Middle School Vision……………………….. 3

Attendance Policy…………………………………………...… 6

Benchmarks and Targets……………………………………... 19

Beverages……………………………………………………...34

Bicycles/Scooter/Skateboards………………………………………. 13

Book Bags and Backpacks……………………………………...........12

Breakfast and Lunch Program………………………………….........34

Bullying……………………………………………………….……..29

Bus Rules……………………………………………………………...9

Car Transportation……………………………………………….......10

Cell Phones……………………………………………………......... 13

Change of Address………………………………………………......14

Cheating/Plagiarism………………………………………………….18

Class Absences…………………………………………………….…. 6

Clubs and Activities…………………………………………….…... 24

Computer Technology Rules………………………………...…...Pg 24

Computer Use Policy…………………………………………….......25

Cyber Bullying……………………………………………………… 30

Dance Rules…………………………………………………………. 26

Delayed Opening and School Closing…………………………..........14

Directory Information……………………………………………….. 14

Disciplinary Terms…………………………………………..……….35

Disciplining Students with Special Needs………………………...... 40

District Mission…………………………………………………......... 3

Dress Code………………………………………………………...... 10

Drug Paraphernalia…………………………………………………...28

Drug, Alcohol, Intoxicant Incidents………………………………….27

Drugs, Alcohol, Intoxicants, Smoking, Weapons…………………….27

Early Dismissal………………………………………………………...8

Erasing Hate Guide…………………………………………….……..33

Excused Absences…………………………………………….….........7

Expulsion Code………………………………………………………37

Extra Help…………………………………………………………… 19

Field Trips…………………………………………………………… 24

Fire Safety…………………………………………………………… 28

Footwear……………………………………………………….......... 11

General Rules…………………………………………………..……... 8

Handbook Sign Off Sheet……………………………………............ 42

Harassment…………………………………………………………... 31

Hate Crimes…………………………………………………….…… 32

Health Issues……………………………………………………........ 16

Health Screenings…………………………………………………… 16

Homework Hotline……………………………………………..…… 19

Homework………………………………………………………....... 19

Honor Roll………………………………………………………....... 20

Immunizations………………………………………………………..17

Library……………………………………………………….……… 23

Lockers and Belongings………………………………………..…… 12

Loss of Riding Privileges……………………………………….......... 9

Lost and Found………………………………………………...……. 11

Lunch Rules………………………………………………….…....... 34

Make-up Work……………………………………………...………. 20

Malicious Physical Abuse or Assault…………………………...….. 34

Medical Excuses………………………………………………......... 18

Medication Administration……………………………………..…... 17

Morning Announcements…………………………………………… 14

National Junior Honor Society………………………………..…….. 21

Non-Negotiable Building Rules……………………………….15

Planned Absences………………………………………………......... 7

Property Damage……………………………………………….…… 29

Recreational/Personal Items…………………………………….....Pg12

Report Cards……………………………………………………........ 21

Riding the bus………………………………………………….............9

School Office Personnel………………………………………………. 2

Selling Gum/Candy…………………………………………...……... 35

Sexual Harassment……………………………………………..……. 31

Smoking/Tobacco Products…………………………………………. 28

Sports Teams………………………………………….….…………. 23

Student Records………………………………………………...…….15

Student Spectators………………………………………………....... 24

Student Support Services Personnel………………......……..……….. 2

Substitute Teachers…………………………………………….......... 15

Supplies and Materials………………………………………………..22

Suspension Code………………………………………………..…… 36

Suspension Procedures………………………………………………. 37

Tardiness……………………………………………………….……... 7

Teacher Detention……………………………………………...……. 36

Telephone Calls……………………………………………...………. 14

Textbooks……………………………………………………………. 22

Unloading from the bus………………………………………………. 9

Use of Elevator for Medical Reasons……………………….…......... 18

Visitors………………………………………………………..……... 15

Waiting for the bus……………………………………………………. 9

Weapons……………………………………………………………... 28

Who to go to for Information……………………………….………… 4

Please bring this handbook home and review it with your parent/guardian.  Use it as a reference book when you have questions.  You and your parent/guardian are required to sign a statement on the Middle School Information Sheet as well as the Handbook sign off below indicating you have read this handbook and understand its contents.

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Athol-Royalston Middle School

HANDBOOK SIGN OFF SHEET – 2010/2011

H. R. TEACHER:

                                                                                       Date

PARENT:                                                                             

                                                                                                                   Date

STUDENT:                                                                       Date

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