ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL
Students should not arrive at school before 7:15 AM. Doors will be open at 7:15 and supervision will be provided for students at that time.
ATTENDANCE
Our school day starts at 7:35 AM and ends at 1:47 PM. Every student is required by law to attend each day that school is in session. A PHONE CALL FROM THE PARENT/GUARDIAN TO THE SCHOOL (360-1333) IS REQUIRED. Regular attendance is crucial to success in school and should be encouraged in every way possible. Excessive absences or tardiness may be cause for referral to the district Truancy Officer, Truancy Court, and possible retention in the present grade level. Five unexcused absences will result in a letter sent home and a referral to the South Kingstown School District Truancy Officer. Ten absences (including excused and unexcused) will result in a letter sent home and a renewed visit by the Truant Officer. Additional absences will result in further action including
Truancy Court. The following absences are considered excused if a note from the parent is provided to the main office within three days of the absence:
- Religious holidays
- Family emergencies (to be approved by an administrator)
- School-sponsored activities
- Funerals
- Sickness (a doctor’s note will be requested if sickness prevents a student from attending school for more than five school days over a 15 day period of time)
Please refer to School Committee Policy 8415 for further information.
VACATIONS DURING SCHOOL
Family vacations should align with school vacations on the school calendar. Vacations scheduled while school is in session interferes with the student’s learning and days missed are considered unexcused absences. Parents should notify the guidance office or the main office in advance if students are going to be absent due to a vacation. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain and make up any missed schoolwork.
TARDINESS
TARDINESS TO SCHOOL
Students are to arrive at school with enough time to go to their locker and be in their Learning Center before 7: 35 AM. Students who arrive at 7:35 will be considered tardy. A student who is tardy must report to the office to sign in when he or she enters the building after the beginning of the school day. Excused tardiness constitutes those occasions when students are late through no fault of their own e.g. late bus, doctors appointment (with accompanying note from the doctor), or when parent/guardian’s permission is presented and acceptable. Parents must accompany their child into the main office when the student is tardy. Unexcused tardiness occurs when parent/guardian’s permission is lacking or unacceptable. These cases will be referred for disciplinary action. Consequences apply
beginning each quarter.
1st, 2nd, 3rd tardy – Student informed that tardiness is unacceptable to school authorities. Student warned that additional tardiness would result in office detention.
4th tardy – Lunch detention.
5 or more tardies – (Both excused and unexcused) Beginning on the 6th tardy a student will receive one office detention per tardy. Continued violations may result in a referral to the Truant Officer and/or Truancy Court.
TRUANCY
Truancy is defined by a pupil who is absent from school without an acceptable excuse. A student who misses part of a school day (part or all of one or more classes) shall be considered tardy and may be subject to the same conditions and dispositions as truancy.
Parents will be notified. When the student returns to school, a conference will be held and the time the student was missing from school will be made up in in-school suspension or in after school detention equal to the number of hours of school missed. In addition, the Truant Officer will be notified as needed. (Refer to School Committee Policy 8415 for further information).
LATE TO CLASS
Infrequent Offenders – to be handled by classroom teachers.
Chronic Cases – names will be submitted to the Assistant Principal’s office for further action.
A student has cut class when he/she is late in excess of 15 minutes.
HALL PASS
Students must have the agenda passport page signed by a teacher when out of a classroom during class time.
PROGRAM ORGANIZATION
Curtis Corner Middle School is organized in the middle school concept of interdisciplinary teams. An interdisciplinary team consists of four teachers inclusive of the academic subject areas: Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies. These teachers commonly instruct one group of students.
All students participate in Physical Education , Health and Reading. Unified Arts classes that students may also have in their schedule during the year are:
Art, Computer Literacy, Family & Consumer Science, Band/Orchestra/Chorus, Fitness, Library Science and World Language.
An Open House to explain our school programs and to meet the teachers will be held shortly after school opens. Students will be given flyers with Open House information to bring home to parents.
STUDENT SERVICES
The guidance office is open during the regular school day and is staffed by two full-time school counselors. A student may go to a counselor only after receiving teacher permission. When the school counselor is not available, the student may fill out a request slip and the school counselor will arrange a meeting. The counselors welcome contact from parents about their child's progress. Appointments with the counselors or parent conferences may be scheduled by calling Ms. Linda McCormack (Grade 8) or Ms. Loren Hedman (Grade 7) at 360-1395. Information regarding 8th grade mathematics placement is available through this office.
Special Services are available through our resource and special education teachers, speech therapist, psychologist, social worker, and school counselors. Contact regarding these services is made through the office of the Assistant Principal (360-1368).
Mr. David Patrone is our Rhode Island Student Assistance Counselor. The Rhode Island Student Assistance Program is a statewide alcohol abuse prevention/early intervention program. School administrators, school counselors, teachers, parents, and students refer students. Students may also request an appointment for themselves. Mr. Patrone is available 2 and one-half days each week in our school. Mr. Patrone can be contacted at 360-1374.
STUDENT INFORMATION FORMS
During the early part of the school year students will receive a student information form to be completed and returned to their Learning Center teacher. This form is very important as it tells us the person to contact in case of injury or illness. Please notify the school if any changes occur during the year, i.e., change of address, work phone number or person to contact in case of emergency. NO CHILD WILL BE RELEASED TO ANYONE WHO IS NOT LISTED ON THE STUDENT INFORMATION FORM.
It is ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL that emergency telephone numbers are recorded on each student's information form in order to contact a parent, relative, or neighbor in case of emergency. Work numbers must be included. Be sure that the person listed on the emergency card knows that he/she is listed and that he/she is generally available at the number listed during the school day.
NO-CONTACT RESTRAINING ORDERS, PROPERLY DOCUMENTED, MUST BE FILED WITH THE PRINCIPAL OR ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL AS SOON AS THEY ARE IN EFFECT. ANY CHANGES TO THESE ORDERS MUST BE REPORTED IN A TIMELY MANNER.
EARLY DISMISSAL
Students will not be dismissed from school before the normal dismissal time without a written note from parents. The parents requesting the early dismissal must come into the building with a photo ID. and wait for the child in the main office. The student being dismissed will be called down to the main office and the parent/guardian must sign the student out.
SAFETY
The safety of our students is a very high priority. During school hours all doors are kept locked. Please ring the buzzer to the left of the front door. Visitors to our school must stop at the main office. We will ask them to “log in” and they will be issued a visitor’s badge. We appreciate all cooperation in this matter.
CANCELLATIONS/EMERGENCIES CONNECT ED
The South Kingstown School Department utilizes an automated telephoning system, School Messenger. This phone system will also be used to notify you of early dismissal, school cancellations, and other events.
The following radio and television stations will also be used to notify parents and students of cancellations: WSNE (93.3FM), WHJJ (920AM), WHJI (92FM), CHANNEL 6 (WLNE), CHANNEL 10 (WJAR), CHANNEL 64 (FOX). Emergency closings after students have arrived at school will also be communicated through these stations and/or School Messenger. Parents should discuss with their child, in advance, any alternate destinations that they have arranged in the event that a parent/guardian would not be home for an early dismissal.
LOST AND FOUND
Lost books, materials, clothing and personal articles are to be brought to the main office. Articles of clothing will be placed in the large blue bin outside the main office. Please mark all your articles for identification. Articles unclaimed after a reasonable amount of time will be donated to charitable organizations.
PAY PHONE
A pay phone is available for student use. The phone costs 50¢ and is located outside the gym. Students may use the phone before school, after school, and with permission during lunch time. Only in emergencies are students allowed to use the office phone.
ACADEMICS
REPORT CARDS & MID-TERM REPORTS
Report cards and mid-term reports are issued quarterly. The report card is to be signed by the parent and must be returned to the Learning Center teacher within three days. Students failing to return signed report cards are subject to disciplinary action. Mid-term reports are usually mailed home. Parents may request a conference by contacting the team leader or guidance counselor.
HOMEWORK
The amount of homework will vary from teacher to teacher. However, parents should expect homework in all subjects on a regular basis.
HONOR ROLL REQUIREMENTS
Curtis Corner Middle School has established criteria for honor roll to recognize the efforts of students.
HIGH HONORS- All A’s in all subjects, both academic and Unified Arts. PASS in all Pass/Fail subjects. O’s and S’s in any subject which utilizes O, S, NI, or U.
HONORS- A’s and B’s in all academic and Unified Arts. PASS in all Pass/Fail subjects. O’s and S’s in any subject which utilizes O, S, NI, or U.
HONORABLE MENTION- A’s and B’s and one C. PASS in all Pass/Fail subjects. O’s and S’s in any subject which utilizes O, S, NI, or U.
GRADING CRITERIA
A+ 97-100 A 93-96 A- 90-92
B+ 87-89 B 83-86 B- 80-82
C+ 77-79 C 73-76 C- 70-72
D+ 67-69 D 63-66 D- 60-62
F No Credit
S Satisfactory U Unsatisfactory
I Incomplete W Withdrawn
M Medical NI Needs Improvement
NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY
Curtis Corner Middle School obtained its first charter to establish a chapter of the National Junior Honors Society in October of 2003. Exceptional students who demonstrate the special qualities of scholarship, leadership, service, character, and citizenship may be eligible for nomination. Nomination information will be sent home with students in the fall of 2010. Community service hours are one requirement and students are encouraged to begin their volunteer activities as soon as possible. Nominees who satisfy all requirements on time are eligible to participate in a traditional and formal induction ceremony in May of each year. Students inducted into the Honor Society are expected to maintain their academic standing to retain their membership status.
SUMMER SCHOOL
In an effort to promote academic excellence, Curtis Corner Middle School has established a Summer School Program for all students who fail Language Arts and/or Math. Satisfactory completion of summer school is required for promotion. Depending on need, Social Studies or Science maybe offered. In addition, enrichment classes may be added, such as Art, Computers, Music, etc.
PROMOTION CEREMONY
Promotion Ceremony is a ceremony honoring those students who have successfully completed the eighth grade. In order to participate in the Promotion Ceremony, students must be in good standing. To be in good standing a student must have completed and passed Language Arts and Math and received the appropriate number of credits. In addition, all bills accrued for lost books, vandalism, etc. must be settled. Students required to attend summer school are not eligible to participate in the Promotion Ceremony, regardless of their summer school plans. There will be NO EXCEPTION to the above conditions
ACTIVITIES
AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
Curtis Corner Middle School offers many extra-curricular activities including clubs, interscholastic athletics, and intramural athletics. Activities are conducted after school on announced days. Examples of intramural sports are: basketball, bowling, floor hockey, golf, and tennis. Examples of clubs are: art, fishing, SMILE, walking club and yearbook. Although each activity may have its own requirements, some general rules do apply to all activities.
1. If a student is absent from school, he/she may not participate in, or be a spectator to, any activity that day. Note: if there are unusual circumstances related to this, please inform the principal/assistant principal in advance.
2. Any student who disrupts an extra-curricular activity, either as a participant or a spectator, may be removed from the activity. The student may be suspended from future activities and/or be subject to further disciplinary action according to school procedures and policies.
3. Intramural and club forms must be completed and signed by both students and parents prior to the student participating in the activity.
4. If a student is not riding the late bus, they must be picked up no later that 3:15 or at the conclusion of the activity.
5. Students trying out for Interscholastic Athletics must complete the Interscholastic Sports Packet which includes a current physical exam, waiver, insurance, health questionnaire and demographic information. Academic requirements for Interscholastic Athletics follow the RI Interscholastic League rules. Please contact the SK Athletic Director at 360-1011 for more information.
STUDENT COUNCIL
Two students will be elected from each Learning Center in September. Organizational information will be announced during the first few weeks of school. Student Council representatives must keep their homeroom informed of council discussions and plans. Activities include special events, service to others, elections, assemblies, and developing ideas for the good of the school and community. The full council meets after school once each month. Attendance is mandatory at all meetings. Members must maintain a passing grade of C in all classes to retain their membership status. Any member who fails to represent his/her homeroom and school in an exemplary manner will loose their Student Council membership.
DANCES
Dances are regarded as after school activities. They are chaperoned by faculty and parents. Dances are typically held on Fridays from 6:30-8:30 PM in the school gym. Students may arrive no later than 7:00 PM and must remain until 8:30PM. Attendance is restricted to Curtis Corner Middle School students. Tickets are sold in advance. To be eligible to attend dances, a student must be in attendance at school the day of the dance; a student may not attend the dance if they owe overdue library books. A STUDENT REFERRED TO THE OFFICE & ASSIGNED OFFICE DETENTION THE WEEK OF THE DANCE WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO GO TO THE DANCE. ALL school rules apply, including the school dress code. Parents will be notified by 8:00 PM, the night of the dance, if a student has purchased a ticket and has not arrived at the dance.
BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS
It is impossible to anticipate all of the situations that may occur in a middle school, but this handbook attempts to outline the most important disciplinary guidelines for our students. The school rules that follow and the district-wide policies outlined in Policy 8315 and 8305, are based on the premise that each student has a right to learn in a safe and orderly environment. Each student has a responsibility to ensure this right to all members of our learning community. Infringing on others’ rights will not be tolerated. As a result, the following rules, expectations, and Code of Behavior are in effect:
- Students are to WALK at all times. Running in the building is prohibited.
- Students are to be quiet in the corridors so as not to disturb classes that are in session.
- Students are to keep hands, feet and objects to themselves.
- Students are to stay inside the building unless given permission by a teacher to go outside for a specific purpose. A teacher will accompany groups of students going outside.
- Gum chewing is strictly prohibited in all parts of the school building because it creates a maintenance problem through careless disposal and could be disruptive to a class or teacher. Students must have teacher permission to eat or drink outside of the cafeteria. The only drink allowed outside of the cafeteria is water. Teachers will follow the district Health and Wellness Policy (7751) regarding food restrictions in classrooms.
- Students are to arrive in class on time
- Students bring all materials needed for class, leaving candy and electronic devices at home.
Leave outer garments (i.e. coats, hats) and all large bags (i.e. backpacks) in your lockers.
- Bullying or harassing of other students will not be tolerated.
Curtis Corner Middle School adopted the PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports) in the Fall of 2009. PBIS is characterized as: School-wide, explicitly taught expectations that use consistent language. PBIS uses data driven researched-based behavioral interventions to maximize the learning environment. Please see page 10 of our
handbook to view our PBIS Behavior Matrix.
ENFORCEMENT OF BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS
The following are possible consequences, which
may be assigned to the violator of our Behavior Expectations.
1. A verbal warning
2. Remain after school for a specified length of time with written notification to parent.
3. Parent called
4. Parent conference
5. In-School Suspension- This procedure removes the student from the mainstream of school activity, but allows the student to remain in school to complete assigned work. Any student who is assigned to in-school suspension is prohibited from participating in any after school activity for the day.
6. Restitution
7. Suspension – It is the policy of this school to use this in only the most serious circumstances ( including but not limited to: Fighting, Weapons, Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco, Threats, Habitual disregard of school rules). When it is deemed necessary, the following procedure is followed in accordance with South Kingstown School Committee Policy 8305.
a) The student will have an informal hearing before the Principal or the Assistant Principal for the purpose of informing the student as to the charges and will be given an opportunity to respond.
b) The Principal or the Assistant Principal will make all possible attempts by telephone to notify the parent or legal guardian of the action and the causes leading to the suspension.
c) A letter will be sent to the parent or guardian by the Principal or Assistant Principal within one school day of the suspension requesting an opportunity for a conference.
d) Notice of suspension will be given to the Superintendent of Schools.
e) Following a conference with the Principal or Assistant Principal, the student or the parents or guardian may request the Superintendent of Schools or his designee to review the decision. Such review will be completed and a written report will be issued to the student or parents request.
f) Students and parents may request textbooks and homework for the duration of the suspension period.
g) Length of suspension will depend on the severity of the offence and the past disciplinary record of the student.
Please be advised that students under suspension are not allowed on school property before, during, or after school hours nor are they allowed to participate in or attend school sponsored social or athletic activities.
8. EXPULSION – The Principal may request of the Superintendent and School Committee the expulsion of a student when the principal believes the student’s conduct endangers persons or property, is seriously disruptive of the educational process or is in violation of a publicized School Committee policy. This is in accordance with South Kingstown School Committee Policy 8305.
9. Notification of Policy – In some cases, due to the severity of the violation of school rules, regulations or policies, the notification of the police is mandatory
BULLYING AND HARASSMENT
In cases of verbal, physical, or sexual harassment of a non-violent nature, first tell the perpetrator that you don’t like the particular offensive behavior, and you want it to stop.
If the behavior continues, tell the teacher immediately.
The teacher will talk to the offending person, gather more information, date and record the incident in the teacher’s class behavior log, and submit a first incident report to the assistant principal.
If the misbehavior continues in class, halls, lunch, gym, etc., the student reports this as soon as possible to the teacher or assistant principal.
A second incident report is dated and recorded in the teacher’s class behavior log, a copy is sent to the assistant principal, and the offending student is sent to the office for a meeting with the assistant principal. A meeting will be arranged with parents and school administrators. Subsequent consequences will be assigned as appropriate.
Any behavior that creates a hostile environment for a student in school will not be tolerated. Immediate action will be taken.
If the harassment is of a violent nature, immediately report the incident to an administrator, or teacher who will immediately notify an administrator. The offending student will be excluded from classes, isolated from the rest of the student body, while the police and the Superintendent are notified. The victim is taken to the nurse’s office. A full report of the incident is written and submitted to the principal. Legal action against the perpetrator, as warranted, will be taken.
Please refer to School Committee Policy 1230 for further details regarding Harassment, Bullying, Hazing and Dating Violence.
DRUGS/ALCOHOL
The use, sale, possession, or transfer of drugs, alcohol, and paraphernalia associated with substance abuse or the intent to do so is strictly forbidden. If a student is in possession or under the influence of drugs or alcohol his parents and the police department will be notified. The student will be subject to suspension in accordance with
South Kingstown School Committee Policy 8305 & 8310.
TOBACCO
The use and possession of all forms of tobacco and related paraphernalia is strictly forbidden. There is no smoking inside or outside the building, before, during, or after school. Cigarettes observed in a student’s possession will be confiscated. Violations of the above will result in parental contact and disciplinary action.
THEFT
The taking of another student’s property without their permission will result in disciplinary action which may include restitution and a report filed with the South Kingstown Police Department.
ACADEMIC DISHONESTY
Cheating is considered a serious matter and will result in
the following disciplinary actions:
The first time a student is found to be cheating he/she will receive a zero for the work done, regardless of what the work is. Additionally, the teacher involved will notify the student’s parents. Notification will also be given to the Principal, Assistant Principal and guidance counselor.
If a student is found to be cheating a second time, he/she will receive a zero for the work and a parent conference with the Principal or Assistant Principal will result.
A student involved in repeated incidents of cheating will be subject to suspension.
Using another person’s computer work through an exchange of discs or codes will be regarded as academic dishonesty.
PLAGIARISM
Documentation of all sources is important to avoid plagiarism, which is stealing of another’s ideas, words, writing, or academic work, and implying that it is original. Both quoting and paraphrasing from an outside source, including any technology without crediting that source is a form of plagiarism. Plagiarism will be addressed by disciplinary action including receiving a zero for work done.
FORGERY
Signing of another person’s name on a document is considered forgery and subject to disciplinary action.
TEACHER ASSIGNED DETENTION
Students will receive advance 24 hours notice unless previous arrangements have been made with a parent. Cutting detention the first time will result in parent notification by the teacher and rescheduling. If the rescheduled teacher detention is cut a referral will be made to the administration and two detentions will then be assigned: one for the teacher and the second for the office.
OFFICE ASSIGNED DETENTION
Office detention meets for one hour. Cutting office detention on the first offense will result in parent notification and rescheduling. Subsequent cuts will result in the doubling of detention time or suspension. Students may be placed in detention for violation of school rules. A written detention notice will be issued to the student who is personally responsible for having the notice signed and returned to the Assistant Principal’s office the next school day. In some cases verbal contact with a parent replaces this requirement. Detention takes place from 2:00- 3:00PM each day. Lunch detention may be assigned at the discretion of the administration.
CAFETERIA
Since lunchtime involves a large number of students in an informal atmosphere, it is imperative that each student takes responsibility for his/her own actions. All students will be required to help clean up their table area on top and underneath whether or not they were personally responsible for any remaining debris. Students are to eat lunch in the cafeteria at the time assigned for their team or class. Students will remain seated at their table. Students are not allowed to take food outside of the cafeteria without permission. A student must have a pass to leave the cafeteria. A peanut, egg, & seafood free table will be available for students with allergies. Any student bringing restricted food to the designated table will be subject to disciplinary action. Free and reduced
lunch applications for hot lunch are available in the main office. Students may prepay in advance for lunches. Please make checks payable to South Kingstown Schools if paying by check.
DRESS CODE
Dress is largely a matter of personal judgment and taste. The tone and atmosphere of a school are affected by the overall appearance and general conduct of the school community. Therefore, appropriateness in the selection of clothing is a key component in maintaining a positive learning environment. Clothing and personal grooming should conform to reasonable standards of modesty, cleanliness, and good taste. The Administration reserves the right to make final judgment on the appropriateness of attire. As such, the following are our guidelines for appropriate attire:
- Students are prohibited from wearing hats, hoods, scarves and similar head wear during the school day.
- Students are not allowed to wear clothing that displays profanities or promotes violence, the use of drugs, alcohol and/or sexual activity.
- Halter-tops, half-shirts, backless or tube tops, spaghetti strap shirts, muscle shirts, mini skirts, spandex shorts and short shorts are not allowed.
- Shoulder straps on shirts, dresses and tops should be no less than 1-1.5 inches in width.
- While standing upright with correct posture, hands by your sides, the hem of your garment must extend beyond the tip of your longest finger and the hem must be half the length from the thigh to the knee.
- Bare midriffs are not allowed. The top of the bottom should always touch the bottom of the top.
- No undergarments may be visible at anytime.
- Any type of footwear determined to be hazardous or destructive to the floors is unacceptable.
- For safety considerations, heavy coats or jackets are not to be worn in the building.
- Backpacks and large bags are to be stored inside the student’s locker during the school day.
- Students are permitted to wear/use nylon backpacks provided they do not contain heavy books.
ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Rhode Island General Law 16-21.2-11 prohibits carrying, possessing, or using any paging device including cell phones, in a public school in Rhode Island. ~ Cell phones, Ipods, pagers, tape recorders, CD, DVD and MP3 players, cameras, video cameras, games and headphones are not allowed during the school day (7:35 to 1:47). ~On the first offense the item will be confiscated and parents notified. Second offense will warrant a one hour after school detention, item confiscated and must be picked up by a parent. The school is not responsible for the loss or damage of such items. The use of cameras, video cameras and recording devices must have approval of classroom teachers. Inappropriate use of cameras, including cell phone cameras, and recording devices will result in disciplinary action.
The use of cell phones, including texting, during the school day is strictly prohibited. Students are not allowed to contact parents via cell phone to dismiss them from school for any reason.
FIRE DRILLS, EVACUATION, & LOCK DOWN DRILLS
Fire drills, evacuation drills and lock down drills will be held periodically. Each student is expected to leave the building silently and in an orderly manner. Each class will proceed with their teacher and form a quiet line away from the building to facilitate safety and the taking of attendance. Students will remain outside until the all-clear signal is given. Evacuation procedures and locations are to be posted in each classroom. The rules for all drills must be strictly followed for the safety of everyone. Teachers are responsible for ensuring the silence of students during all drills. Disciplinary action may result for any student who is disruptive during drills.
NURSE/HEALTH OFFICE
When ill during school hours, students will be issued a pass to the health office. No student is to go to the health office between classes without first reporting to the teacher of the next class period. The nurse will provide a pass to any student whom she has seen for good reason. No student is to leave school for reasons of illness without first seeing the nurse, AND UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHOULD A STUDENT ARRANGE THEIR OWN DISMISSAL FOR REASONS OF ILLNESS. If the nurse is not in, the ill student should report to the main office. In order to comply with RI Law 103.1, health examinations for pupils entering 7th grade will be due in September. Before a student can be admitted into the seventh grade, the new RI Dept of Health regulations require a DT
(diphtheria and tetanus) booster if the last immunization was over 5 years ago (making the total received 5), proof of having had chicken pox or the varicella vaccine, 4 polio vaccinations, 2 measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) immunizations and the Hepatitis B series. Visual screenings are also done in the 7th grade; Scoliosis screenings are done by the school nurse in the 8th grade; Dental screenings are done in the 8th grade.
Please be advised that there is no medical supervision or services provided by the School Department for any after school activities. The only services available are the local Emergency Medical Services through the town.
POLICY REGARDING MEDICATIONS
NO MEDICATION SHALL BE DISPENSED WITHOUT FOLLOWING THIS PROCEDURE
Parents/guardians are requested, whenever possible, to schedule the administration of medication outside of the normal school day. Students needing medication during the school day are required to bring the medication to the main office or nurse’s office with a signed authorization. For a prescription medication this will include both a licensed health care provider’s written order and a written parent authorization. Non-prescription medications require only a parent authorization form to be completed.
Prescription medication shall be stored in their original pharmacy labeled containers. Non-prescription medication shall be stored in their manufacturer-labeled container only. No student shall have in his/her possession any medication while on school property unless it is authorized by his/her physician. All medication shall be dispensed by a School Nurse-Teacher. No lay person other than a parent or parent designee shall administer medication to a student in the school setting. This does not include inhalers (which may be self-administered if authorized by the licensed health care provider) or Epipens (which may be self administered, administered by school personnel trained to administer the Epipen or, in the event that no trained personnel are
available, any willing person may administer the Epipen to a medically identified student). In the event of an off site school-sponsored activity, a child may self medicate if the licensed health care provider, parent and school nurse-teacher are in agreement. And on the day of the field trip one school day’s supply should be provided from home in its original pharmacy-labeled container. If this procedure is not followed the student will not be allowed to self medicate on the off- site school-sponsored activity.
BUSES
Students are to ride their assigned bus only. They are not to change or leave the bus at any stop other than their own, unless a note from the parent is brought to the office and signed by an authorized school employee. In accordance with the South Kingstown School Committee Policy 8325 and the Motor Vehicle Code Act of Rhode Island, the following procedure shall be followed for matters pertaining to bus discipline:
First Offense -A verbal reprimand
Second Offense -A warning letter to parents
Third Offense -Suspension of five (5) days from bus privileges
Fourth Offense -Suspension for the remainder of the year
LATE BUSES
Late Busses run Monday thru Thursday. They are intended for students participating in after-school programs. Students may only board the late bus with a Late Bus Pass that they obtain when they participate in an authorized after-school activity. STUDENTS LEAVING SCHOOL GROUNDS MAY NOT RIDE THE LATE BUS. Inappropriate behavior on the late bus may result in suspension of late bus privileges.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips are considered part of the curriculum and students are expected to participate. Under no circumstances should parents allow students to remain at home. If a student, with parent permission, elects not to participate, he/she must attend school. Individual teams determine eligibility criteria for attendance on field trips. Students not allowed to participate must also report to school that day. Students remaining at the school will receive appropriate assignments and arrangements will be made for their supervision. Any student who cannot afford to attend should inform a team teacher. Funds are available to cover these costs. Use of electronic devices including Ipods and cell phones on a field trip will be at the discretion of the field trip
leaders.
BICYCLES/SKATEBOARDS
Bicycles must be parked in the bike racks and locked during the school day. Helmets must be worn. SKATEBOARDING IS NOT ALLOWED ON SCHOOL PROPERTY. If you do bring a skateboard to school it must be put in your locker or left in the main office with approval of the administrators.
LOCKERS
Each student will be assigned a locker by the learning center teacher. Lockers should be kept locked at all times; it is the responsibility of the student to protect books, clothing and personal belongings. Items of significant value should not be brought to school. Curtis Corner Middle School is not responsible for lost or stolen property. Students should not tell other students their lock combination. Pegging of lockers is not allowed, as it puts the contents of a student’s locker in jeopardy of being stolen. Broken/inoperable lockers should be reported for repair to the administration immediately. Student lockers remain the property of the school department and are thus subject to inspection if circumstances warrant.
For safety reasons, only school locks are allowed on a student’s locker unless permission of the administration is granted for extenuating circumstances Student lockers remain the property of the school department and are thus subject to inspection if circumstances warrant.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
- All students must participate as required by law.
- A one-day excuse for medical reasons requires a note from the parent/guardian. A note must be brought into the office by 7:40AM on the day of the request to be excused.
- Exclusion from physical education on a permanent basis or extended period of time requires a doctor's note. This note must indicate a return date for participation in the physical education program.
- A lock for the gym locker is recommended. Locks must be removed at the end of each class. Students should not leave valuables unlocked in the locker room.
TEXTBOOKS
Textbooks are the property of the School Department and are loaned to students. They become the student's
personal responsibility. Students will be charged for any damage (or loss) to books that occur while in their use. Therefore, it is to the student’s advantage to use book covers and report to the teacher the name of any student who is responsible for damage to your book. Notify your teacher immediately when a book is lost. A new book will be issued when payment is received in the office.
MEDIA CENTER
Students may come to the library at any time with a pass from a teacher. The pass will be presented to the librarian on arrival in the library. When the student leaves, he/she will take the signed pass back to the classroom. A pass is not required when a teacher brings an entire class to the library.
Students are allowed to borrow up to two books or magazines at a time. During the time the book or magazine is out the student is responsible for it. Should the student let the book or magazine out of his/her possession or allow these library materials to incur damage, the student remains financially liable.
Books and magazines circulate for two weeks. If, at the end of the loan period the student still needs the items, they may be renewed unless there are pending holds on it. Students with any overdue items will not be allowed to either borrow additional books or renew items until the overdue materials have been returned. Students who consistently offend may lose library privileges.
After School Library Use
- No student will be admitted into the library after 1:52 PM without a pass.
- No student whether a walker, pickup, or late bus rider may leave the library until the library closes.
- All students in the library must be engaged in academic work/studies only.
- Students may not leave the library to make phone calls. Please plan ahead and have transportation arranged.
- Computer use is restricted to homework only.
SCHOOL DEPARTMENT WEBSITE
The South Kingstown School Department maintains a website where all school department policies referred to in this handbook can be found in their entirety. The website address is skschools.net. Follow the link to policies under Administration.
CURTIS CORNER WEBSITE
The Curtis Corner Middle School website address is skschools.net. Follow the link under schools. Important announcements, activities calendar, team and PTO information and more may be found here.
SCHOOL COMMITTEE POLICY 7205: INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTABLE USE
Definitions:
Network - all voice, video and data communication facilities, end-equipment and content.
Users - all students, all employees of the South Kingstown School Department, and all volunteers/guests.
Use of the Network:
1. The use of the network must be in support of education, research, public service, and be consistent with the technology plan of the South Kingstown School department.
2. Any use of the Network to facilitate illegal activity is prohibited.
3. Any use of the Network for commercial or for-profit purposes is prohibited.
4. Any use of the Network for product advertisement or political lobbying is prohibited.
5. The use of the Network without permission of an authorized user is prohibited.
6. Any use of the Network to obtain copies of, or modify files, other data, or passwords belonging to other users, to misrepresent other users on the network is not allowed.
7. No use of the Network shall serve to disrupt intentionally the use of the network or others; hardware or software shall not be destroyed, modified, or abused in any way.
8. Malicious use of the Network to develop programs that harass others or infiltrate systems is prohibited.
9. Hate mail, harassment, discriminatory remarks, and other antisocial behavior are prohibited.
10. The illegal installation of copyrighted software for use on district computers is prohibited.
11. Use of the Network to access obscene or pornographic materials is prohibited.
12. Use of the Network to transmit materials that are known to be offensive or objectionable to recipients is prohibited.
Responsibility of Users:
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1. Users are responsible for using Network resources efficiently.
2. Users are responsible for the confidentiality of all assigned access codes.
3. Users are responsible for reporting all violations of privacy and security.
4. Users are responsible for all correspondence sent from their personal accounts.
5. Users are responsible for making only those contacts leading to some justifiable personal growth. 6. Users are responsible for verifying that transmitted material does not contain pornographic materials, inappropriate information, or text-encoded files that are potentially dangerous to the integrity of the hardware on school premises.
Failure by any user to follow the rules outlined in this policy may result in the loss of use of information technology resources and discipline as appropriate under the circumstances. Continued violations of this policy will subject the user to progressive discipline.
SCHOOL COMMITTEE POLICY 8225: Publication of Student Images
The school district, through various media, publishes information to the community. This may include programs broadcast over local access cable television, internet web sites, and print. Material communicated to the public through these and other media may contain student images. This policy describes the manner in which student images may be published.
1. With the exception of the specific instances included in this policy, identified or featured images (identified or unidentified) of students shall not be published without the written consent of the student’s parent(s) or guardian(s). An identified image publishes both the image and name of the student. Featured images are those that are in the forefront and remain visible for more than a moment.
2.~Exception: Where the school district publishes images of students at public events, such as School Committee meetings, concerts, athletic contests, graduation, etc., no consent is required.
~3. Exception: Where a publication is created by students as part of a school program of study and publication is limited to the school community (students, staff and families), no consent is required.
4. Exception: Images may be published if they are incidental and unidentified. Incidental images are momentary and not featured.
STUDENT RECORD CONFIDENTIALITY
The South Kingstown Schools maintain confidential personal information about students in order to provide appropriate instructional services. In recognition of the confidential nature of student records School Committee Policy 8220 details parents’ rights under the Rights and Privacy Acts of 1975. Please refer to this policy for further information.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Mrs. Humbyrd – Principal 360-1342
Mrs. Egan – Assistant Principal 360-1368
Superintendent of Schools – Mrs. Stringfellow 360-1307
Pupil Personnel Director – Dr. Saccardo 360-1209
Pupil Personnel Assist. Director – Mrs. Eagan 360-1206
Athletic Director – Mr. Lynch 360-1017
Bus Company – First Student 782-1287
Fax – 782-3424
Chartwells Food Service – 360-1055
Attendance – Mrs. Price 360-1333
CCMS Fax – 360-1334
Guidance Department – 360-1395 Ms. Hedman (7)
Ms. McCormack (8)
Library – 360-1252
School Nurse – Mrs. Darby – 360-1341
School Psychologist – Dr. Casey 360-1339
Social Worker – Ms. Saurette 360-1383
Student Assistance Counselor – Mr. Patrone 360-1374
School Email Addresses for school personnel:
Initial of first name last name, @skschools.net
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