Mars Area Middle School

STUDENT ASSIGNMENT BOOK / STUDENT HANDBOOK

1775 Three Degree Road Mars, PA 16046

Phone: 724-625-3145 Fax: 724-625-2147

MIDDLE SCHOOL OFFICE PERSONNEL

Mr. Todd J. Kolson - Principal Mrs. Tanis Rose – Counselor

Mrs. Elisa Hunter – Nurse Mrs. Marcia Sirney – Student Activities Office Secretary

Mrs. Laura Chappel – Front Office Secretary Mrs. Melissa Langer – Nurse & Counselor Secretary

This Agenda Belongs To: Name: Address: City: Zip Code: Phone: Student ID No.: Locker Combination:

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Dear Students: We welcome you to Mars Area Middle School for the 2017-2018 school year. As a student, we hope

that you take advantage of the educational resources we have to offer. We feature an outstanding

academic program, along with a host of extracurricular activities in which we invite you to get involved.

Now is the time to meet new people and discover your interests. We encourage you to make the most

of your middle school years.

Your middle school education will be an adjustment to a new culture. The middle school years come

with additional expectations. The adults will expect even more from you academically and socially.

They will want you to:

become organized and structure your time to assist in your academic and personal success.

follow rules and regulations.

involve yourself in a variety of extracurricular activities.

contribute positively to the culture of this building.

understand that effort is as important as achievement.

hold high expectations and be accountable for your actions, every day.

Mars Area Middle School provides an exciting and vibrant school environment. However, without you,

it is just a building. It is your passion, thoughts, and ideas and above all your spirit that make this

school truly come to life. We ask that you get involved in your school and make positive contributions

to our community.

Organization is one essential skill necessary to be successful. Please take the time to read this

handbook and become familiar with its contents. This handbook is an important guide to success in

the middle school. Each student is responsible to bring this guide to every class and use it regularly.

On behalf of the administration, faculty, and staff of Mars Area Middle School, we wish you a

successful school year.

Sincerely,

Todd J. Kolson Principal

The Mars Area School District is an equal opportunity education institution and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or handicap in its activities, programs, or employment practices as required by Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504. For information regarding civil rights or grievance procedures, contact Dr. Wesley Shipley or Jill Swaney at 545 Route 228, Mars, PA 16046 (724)-625-1518.

Parent Involvement The Mars Area School District will work with its schools to ensure that the required school-level parental involvement policies, programs, activities, and procedures meet the requirements of section 1118 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). Through planned and meaningful consultation with parents of participating children, the school compact will outline how the parents, the entire school staff, and the students will share the responsibility for improved student academic achievement and the means by which the school and parents will build and develop a partnership that will help children achieve the State’s high standards.

Staff Qualification Statement Under NCLB (No Child Left Behind ACT), parents have a right to review the professional qualifications of their child’s teacher(s). Parents who would like to receive specific information about their child's teacher or paraprofessional, may contact their School Principal.

WELCOME

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The mission of the Mars Area School District is to create and sustain an educational environment that

allows all students the opportunity to realize their maximum learning potential.

MIDDLE SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY

The Mars Area Middle School program has been designed to meet the physical, emotional, social and intellectual needs of its citizens. Emphasis in the school is placed on the student to motivate him/her toward:

1. Academic achievement 2. Exploratory experiences 3. Positive self-concept 4. Greater responsibility to himself/herself and others 5. Growth in self-discipline 6. Increased involvement/participation in his/her environment

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

Arrive to school on time and on a regular basis

Be a cooperative, motivated learner and follow all teachers’ directions

Show respect for school personnel, peers, and school property

Complete and return assignments/homework on time and arrange for make up of any missed assignments

PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES

Send your child to school regularly and on time

Make sure that homework is completed and encourage best efforts

Attend school functions and conferences and read all communications from school

Support the school in requiring students to observe all school rules

Encourage and model respect for school personnel, your child’s peers, and school property The purpose of this Student Handbook is to help you become aware of your opportunities and responsibilities as a citizen of our school. Please take time to read this handbook at home with your parents and/or guardians. Become familiar with the rules and procedures established for the welfare of all citizens in the school. If you have any questions, ask your teachers or principal for clarification.

ONLINE TEXTBOOKS AND WEBSITES

Language Arts: _____________________ Mathematics: ______________________ Username: _________________________ Username: ________________________ Password: _________________________ Password: ________________________ Science: __________________________ Social Studies: _____________________ Username: ________________________ Username: ________________________ Password: _________________________ Password: ________________________ Edutype: __________________________ Other: ____________________________ Username: ________________________ Username: ________________________ Password: _________________________ Password: _________________________

Mars Area Middle School

MISSION STATEMENT

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YOUR SCHOOL DAY

What time does school begin and end?

Doors open at 7:15 a.m. Students will NOT be admitted before 7:15 a.m. All students should arrive at school by 7:30 a.m. If you are not riding the bus, please ask your parent and/or guardian to drop you off at the Three Degree Road entrance between 7:15 a.m. - 7:35 a.m. Students will be supervised in the Commons Area until 7:30 a.m. and then released to homeroom. Students that enter school after 7:45 a.m. must sign in late at the Student Activity Office and must have a note from their parent/guardian explaining why they were late. During homeroom, you will view Channel 1 News/School announcements on classroom TV monitors. The school day ends at 2:24 p.m.

SCHOOL WORK & YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES

What do I need to get organized?

It is important to get organized the first week of school. Your teachers will let you know what materials you will need for their classes. You will need to have pens, pencils, etc. to start the school year. The school has provided this assignment book to help you. How will I be able to keep track of my assignments?

The best way to keep track of your work is by using the assignment book provided by the school. Your teachers will elaborate on the uses of the notebook. Write down your assignment for each class. At the end of the day, look at what you’ve written so you know what books and materials you need to take home. The assignment book should be treated like a textbook. Please do not deface, mutilate or destroy the book. If you destroy or lose your assignment book, a replacement will cost you $5.00. How much homework can I expect?

Amounts of homework will vary from class to class. Some nights you may not have any assignments. Plan on at least 60 minutes per night. Studying for tests can be a daily assignment. Practice and review will help you succeed. What happens if I do not complete an assignment or my assignment is late?

It is your responsibility to complete your assignments. Each of your teachers should let you know what the consequence will be for missing assignments. Share with your teacher the reason for your incomplete assignment and ask how you can make up the work. How can I get my homework if I am absent from school?

You or your parent/guardian can log on to Skyward and/or Schoology accounts for your homework assignments. If you do not understand what school work was missed, another option is to e-mail your teachers. If you will be absent for 2 or more days, you can contact Mrs. Sirney in the main office at (724) 625-3145, menu extension 2, then attendance office 2, by 9:30 a.m. to request homework. Homework is to be picked up between 2:45 p.m. – 3:30 p. m. If another student is taking the work home, please make arrangements with that student, the office is not responsible for getting the work to them. What if I stay after school for an activity?

You may stay after school for teacher-directed purposes or school activities. If you are waiting for a parent, stand by the exit doors or sit in the office area. It is your responsibility to inform your parents of your plans and make arrangements for transportation in advance. You will be expected to model appropriate behavior and show respect for others and school property when staying after school. You are not permitted to stay after school without approved adult supervision. When am I eligible for interscholastic athletics or extracurricular activities?

All students may participate in athletics and/or activities. You must meet specific standards when involved in any sport that represents the Mars Area School District.

1. Academics – Each week all Mars Area Middle School student athletes will be subjected to a grade check every Friday morning. Student Athletes must be passing four or more courses. Students who do not qualify academically will be ineligible to participate from Sunday to Saturday following the grade check.

2. Attendance – Students who are participating in a particular activity must attend school three or more hours of the day the activity is taking place.

3. Discipline – Students will not be permitted on any District property or permitted to participate in/attend any activities from the first through the last day of an Out-of-School suspension.

If a student attempts to or does participate, the principal will take disciplinary action. The Student Activity Office will notify you and your parents of your ineligibility.

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

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SCHOOL PERFORMANCE

How will I be graded for my work?

Homework, assignments within the classroom, test/quizzes, projects, and class participation may be used when assigning a report card grade. Teachers will inform you of the grading procedures in each class. Report cards will be issued at the end of each nine-weeks. It is very important for you to keep track of your grades, at the very least weekly, by regularly checking Skyward and/or Schoology accounts. What are the percentages and grades I can earn?

Your work will be graded using the following: A+ 100-97% = 4.33 B 86-83% = 3.00 C+ 79-77% = 2.33 D+ 69-67% = 1.33 A- 92-90% = 3.67 B+ 89-87% = 3.33 C 76-73% = 2.00 D 66-63% = 1.00 A 96-93% = 4.00 B- 82-80% = 2.67 C- 72-70% = 1.67 D- 62-60% = 0.67 F 59% or below What are Hard Grades and Soft Grades?

Reporting student progress for each nine-week grading period will include the following grading categories to evaluate students: Soft Grades – Homework assignments and/or in-class assignments, including participation and extra credit, shall comprise 20% of each nine-week grade. This 20% is categorized as a soft grade or anything not graded for accuracy, correctness and quality. An effort grade falls into the soft grade category. Hard Grades- The other 80% of each nine-week grade is categorized as a hard grade or everything graded that represents the knowledge and skills attained in a course of study. How can I make the Honor Roll?

High Honors is 3.5 and above and Honors is 3.0-3.49. Averages are computed using all graded courses. A student receiving a D, F or incomplete in any subject is ineligible for Honor Roll. How do I know if I will pass to the next grade?

Your teachers, principals and guidance counselors decide if you will pass or fail the school year. If you fail two or more academic subjects for the school year, or miss too many days of school, you may fail that grade.

SELF-DISCIPLINE

What kind of behavior is expected of me at Mars Middle School? Appropriate behavior is a necessary part of good citizenship. Showing respect for other students and adults will help create a cooperative learning environment. Your teachers will explain specific rules for you to follow. You can show responsible behavior by understanding what you need to do to avoid unpleasant consequences. If I ride the school bus, what is expected of me? To insure the safety of all students, the bus driver expects your complete cooperation. If you do not obey the rules and regulations when using bus transportation, riding privileges may be suspended and/or detentions/suspensions may be assigned. Your bus driver will explain the rules to you at the beginning of each school year. During all assembly programs, what behavior is expected of me?

Remember that school assemblies are special presentations provided for your enjoyment. Appropriate behavior is expected when entering and exiting the assembly area. Applause is a positive way to show your appreciation to the presenters. Negative reactions, such as “booing” are not acceptable. When I attend a school event during after-school hours, what is expected of me?

Any sporting event, club activity, or school dance requires you to behave in a responsible manner. Since you represent the school, you should model appropriate behavior. If you are participating in a sporting event as a player or a spectator, your behavior reflects the school’s image. Student conduct at home or away events must be appropriate and all school rules must be followed. A student could be suspended from school and from attending all events if his/her conduct is not of the best quality. What happens if I behave in an irresponsible or inappropriate manner? It is important that all students understand the consequences for misbehavior. Your teacher will explain to you what actions will be taken. Refer to the Student Discipline Policy and Procedures Guide in your assignment book for problem listings and their consequences.

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What can I bring to school?

Students should bring items that are directly related to schoolwork (i.e., pens, pencils, notebooks, etc.). Do not bring extra money, scissors, toys/gadgets, expensive valuables, electronic devices (i.e., CD players/tape players, Gameboys, laser pens, fidget spinners, etc.) or nuisance items that may cause disruption or injury. Do not bring gum, candy or other food items that are not a part of your lunch. Gum chewing is not permitted in school. Also, students are not permitted to eat food in the classroom areas unless it is part of a school project/event. The school’s Discipline Code provides information about the consequences of bringing dangerous items to school. What if I lose something at school?

Check first to see if you have misplaced the item. Report the lost item(s) to the Student Activity Office as soon as possible. To avoid the chance of losing valuable possessions, only bring necessary school-related items. If you lose a textbook, library book or assignment book, you will be asked to pay for it. Can I sell things to my classmates at school?

No. Students are not permitted to sell anything unless affiliated with school-related projects. Prior to the sale of any item, the student must obtain the principal’s consent to proceed. What if I damage school supplies (i.e., assignment books, textbooks, etc.) or equipment?

If you destroy or damage school property, you will be held accountable and required to repair or replace the item(s). If a textbook is misused, a fine will be imposed. Any student with obligations will not be able to attend dances and extracurricular activities. How should I dress for school?

It is important that you come to school dressed appropriately and having used good personal hygiene. The School Board has adopted a dress code for you to follow. Refer to the Mars Area Middle School Dress Code for acceptable attire. If you have questions concerning the appropriateness of your clothing, then simply ask the principal.

EMERGENCY SITUATIONS

What happens if an emergency closes the school?

Check the Mars Area School District web site at www.marsk12.org and click on Closings/Delay. The automated calling system will contact you if there are any emergencies. You can also listen to the local radio stations (KDKA, WISR and WBUT) for information regarding school closings due to snow, ice, low temperatures, no heat, no water, etc. Please do not contact the school. If there is an early dismissal due to an emergency (i.e., inclement weather), parents and students should have a prearranged plan to cover the early dismissal.

What happens during a fire or emergency drill?

Your teacher will explain specific procedures for leaving your classroom and the school building. Directions are posted in every classroom and/or instructional area to help you leave the building quickly and safely.

If I need to call home, is there a phone available?

If you forgot to bring something to school (i.e. major project, gym clothes, etc.), a phone is available in the Student Activity Office. Personal cell phones are not permitted to be used at school.

BEHAVIOR CONSEQUENCES

What is a student behavior referral?

If you are acting inappropriately in school or in your classroom, a behavior report will be filed describing the incident. You may then be asked to meet with the principal to discuss the behavior and consequences.

What are detentions?

Detentions are 1/2-hour periods of time, served after school from 2:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. They are issued as a consequence for breaking school rules. You must attend a scheduled detention with schoolwork to complete. It’s your responsibility to bring schoolwork and appropriate reading material with you.

What are suspensions?

A suspension is a disciplinary action taken by the principal, which temporarily prohibits a student from attending regular classes and other school events.

1. In-school suspensions are served one day at a time for more severe behavior. All schoolwork must be completed and returned to the designated teacher the following school day. If the work is not completed, you will receive no credit for the assignment(s).

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2. Out-of-school suspensions are the most severe consequences for misbehavior, other than expulsion. This form of discipline requires parents and/or guardians to keep you at home for the day(s) assigned. You are responsible for completing all assignments. Work is to be completed by the day of your return to school. If the work is not completed, you will receive no credit for the assignment(s). Also, any missed quizzes or exams may be taken upon your return to school. Your parents and/or guardians are required to bring you back to school and meet with the principal before you may enter classes.

REMEMBER… You may not participate in school activities during your suspension. You are not permitted on school property during an out-of-school suspension.

COUNSELING SERVICES

What if I am upset or have a concern that is distracting me from my schoolwork?

Ask to see the school counselor if you are experiencing personal and/or academic problems. Students are able to access the guidance counselor by either obtaining permission from your classroom teacher or completing an appointment pass during homeroom time. What if I have a problem and I can’t decide what to do?

Besides listening to your concerns, the guidance counselor can help you learn how to make decisions. Your parents also have the opportunity to speak with the counselor when they have questions regarding your education. What should I do if a friend tells me about something that will hurt him/her or other students?

Immediately tell an adult, especially the guidance counselor. You are not considered a “snitch” if you tell in order to help someone.

OTHER STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

What if I need to leave class?

When you need to leave a classroom for any reason (i.e., restroom, nurse, library, another classroom, etc.) the teacher must sign your assignment book, giving you permission to leave class. Having a sign-out allows you to be in the halls – If you are caught in the halls without your teacher’s signature in your assignment book, you could be written up for cutting class. Do I always have to report to homeroom?

Yes. If you do not report to homeroom, you will be marked absent and an automated phone call will inform your parents/guardians that you are not in school. You must also report to homeroom at the end of the day to make sure you receive any handouts/newsletters to take home. Skipping homeroom will result in discipline. Are my books and appropriate personal items safe at school?

Lockers are to be used for storing coats and school supplies. For the safety of these items, one locker and combination lock will be assigned to you. You are responsible for securing your locker after each use. Do not give your lock combination to anyone. If you lose your lock, you are responsible for replacing it. If you forget your combination, or have difficulty working the lock, report to the Student Activity Office and ask for assistance. You must use your lock in order to secure your belongings! Who may inspect my locker?

Teachers and principals may inspect student lockers to assure cleanliness and organization. Can my locker or personal belongings (purses, gym bags, etc.) be searched without my permission?

Yes. A student may be notified and given the opportunity to be present. Only when school officials have reasonable suspicion that a locker or personal belongings contain items that may cause a threat to the health and safety of students in the school, or are in violation of the school rules, the above items may be searched without prior warning. Can I ride a bus other than my own?

Only under special circumstances. You must have a detailed parent note giving you permission to ride a different bus. Bring your note to the Student Activity Office in the morning to be approved. You must pick it up before boarding the bus. What if I have to leave school early for an appointment?

Your parent/guardian must notify the office in writing the day they are going to pick you up early. Your name and time you are to be released will appear on the Daily Attendance Sheet. This allows you to leave your class at that time to come to the office. Your parent/guardian must sign you out before you leave. It is your responsibility to report to the office at your designated time – the secretary will not call to remind you.

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BREAKFAST & LUNCH How do I purchase food from the cafeteria?

Mars Area School District utilizes My School Bucks in the Middle School cafeteria for the purchase of cafeteria food. The system provides a faster way for your child to access his/her meal account. Parents can also view what their children purchase by logging on to myschoolbucks.com. Students choosing not to use the scanning system will need to bring food and drink to school. When can I eat breakfast and lunch?

You are permitted to eat breakfast before homeroom and lunch during your assigned period in the Commons Area. During my lunch period in the cafeteria, what are my responsibilities?

Appropriate behavior is expected of all students when using the cafeteria. Whether you buy a school lunch or bring one from home, every student is responsible for demonstrating proper manners by cooperating with cafeteria workers and lunchroom supervisors. The cafeteria must be kept clean for health and safety reasons. In all cases of bad manners, a consequence will be issued. The severity of the case will determine the disciplinary action. Any student leaving the cafeteria without permission or not reporting to the cafeteria during his/her scheduled lunch will be considered as cutting class. No food or drink will be permitted to be taken out of the cafeteria. What does breakfast/lunch cost?

School breakfast is $________ and lunch is $________ . What if I finish my lunch before the period is over?

You will have time to socialize with peers at your table. No one is permitted to leave the Commons without permission from the supervisors on duty.

OTHER SERVICES

When can I use the school library?

You may use the library before school if you have permission from your homeroom teacher. Teachers will inform you on the procedures to access the library during a study hall period. Also, your teachers may arrange with the librarian specific times for your class to use the library.

ACTIVITIES

When are activities scheduled?

Activity periods will be scheduled periodically throughout the school year. How can I get involved in school activities?

You will be encouraged to participate in programs, clubs, and activities offered in the school. Watch and listen for announcements throughout the year that provide information to students. When can I go on field trips?

Your teacher or club sponsor may arrange for a field trip for your class. Students are responsible for obtaining parent and teacher permission to go on the trip. It is important that you maintain appropriate behavior by following bus and school rules.

SCHOOL HEALTH SERVICES What if I get sick during the school day?

When it is necessary to see the nurse, notify your teacher, request to be signed out, and report directly to the Nurse’s Office. You will then be asked to sign in before seeing the nurse. The school nurse will determine what action to take.

What if I need medication at school?

If you need to take medication at school, including Advil or Tylenol, a medication permission form must be completed. These forms can be obtained from the school nurse or Student Activity Office. The physician will need to complete and sign the form, and a parent/guardian must also sign the form. When complete, turn medication form and medication (in the original bottle) into the nurse. What should I do if I get injured in school, outside the building, or on the athletic field?

Report immediately, if possible, to the adult in charge of your class/team/group. The adult in charge will then notify the nurse or office staff of the incident. At that point, the nurse will then make the proper arrangements to see you.

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What examinations are needed for me to attend school?

Dental: grade 7 Height & Weight: grades 7 & 8 Vision: grades 7 & 8 Hearing: grade 7 Scoliosis (curvature of the spine): grade 7 Parents may choose to have their family physician or dentist perform the medical and dental exams and furnish the school with a report. The examination must be completed within one year before the beginning of the new school year. Immunization Laws

To ensure the health of students, the Pennsylvania School Health Law requires that each child have proof of the following immunizations ON THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL: 1. 4 doses of tetanus, diphtheria and acellular pertussis (usually given as DTaP, DTP, DT or Td – 1 dose on or after 4th

birthday) 2. 4 doses of polio (4th dose on or after 4th birthday and at least 6 months after previous dose given) 3. 2 doses of each of the following: measles, mumps and rubella (usually given as MMR) 4. 3 doses of Hepatitis B 5. 2 doses of varicella (chicken pox) vaccine or history of disease

In addition, 7th grade students need the following:

1 dose of tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis (Tdap)

1 dose of meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV) These requirements allow for the following exemptions: medical reason, religious belief or philosophical/strong moral or ethical conviction. Epinephrine Opt-Out – The Pennsylvania Public School Code, Section 1414.2(g) allows parents/guardians to request an

exemption to the administration of an epinephrine auto-injector for their student. In order to request this exemption, contact the school nurse to make an appointment to discuss this decision, review and sign the opt-out form.

STUDENT ATTENDANCE

Excused Absences The compulsory attendance law requires a child of compulsory age to be in attendance at school, unless absent for an approved reason, and charges the parent of the child with the responsibility for such attendance.

A written excuse explaining an absence must be received within three (3) days of a student’s return to school or the absence will be considered unexcused/illegal.

In general, absences for the following reasons would be excused: 1. Illness 2. Quarantine 3. Family emergency (unavoidable) 4. Recovery from accident 5. Required court appearance 6. Death in family 7. School-related events 8. Educational tours and trips, with prior approval

Extended/recurring absences will require a written excuse from a licensed practitioner of the healing arts upon return to school.

The following reasons may also be considered excused absences, at the discretion of the Building Principal: 1. Impassable roads 2. Inclement weather

A student may be excused for a portion of the school day for medical or dental appointments that cannot be arranged after school hours, court appearances, family emergencies, and other urgent reasons. Parents are encouraged to arrange appointments outside of school hours.

1. Verification of the visit will be needed from the doctor or dentist office upon return to school and within three days or the absence will be declared unexcused.

2. Upon written request by a parent/guardian, an absence for religious holidays observed by bona fide religious groups shall be excused by the Board. A penalty shall not be attached to an absence for a religious holiday.

Unexcused and Unlawful Absences A written excuse explaining an absence must be received within three (3) days of a student’s return to school or the absence will be considered unexcused/illegal. The mere fact that a parent has sent a written excuse does not necessarily mean the absence is “excused”. Such reasons as “visiting”, “away from home”, “had to go shopping”, “had to get a haircut”, “overslept”, or “missed the bus” – (when it is reasonably on schedule), should never be considered an excused absence.

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Class work or tests given on the day of illegal absence cannot be made up. The grade for the day will be “0”.

The school will impose the following penalties on students for unexcused or unlawful absences: 1. First Offense (three (3) days of unexcused absence)

a. Parents will be notified b. Class work or tests given on the day of illegal absence cannot be made up. The grade for the day will be “0”.

2. Second Offense (four (4) and five (5) days of unexcused absence) a. All factors under first offense will apply b. After parents have been notified, a fourth and/or fifth day of unexcused absence will result in the district notifying the

district magistrate to take legal action.

Absence from Class for Semester/Year A student who is absent from class without an excused absence will receive a grade of "I" or" incomplete" in the final marking period, regardless of the student's grade point average, if that student does not meet course requirements through any one or a combination of the following:

1. An excessive number of unexcused absences from class. (10 for a semester and 20 for a year-long course.) 2. Failure to complete major projects and/or research papers. 3. Failure to make up required work.

An "I" under these circumstances means a student will not get credit for the semester or year-long courses. In those cases, where a teacher suspects that a student is in danger of receiving an "I", the teacher must:

1. Review the situation with the Building Principal or designee. 2. Inform the parent/guardian 3. Initiate a parent/guardian conference.

The conference is to be requested at a time when it is still possible for the student to complete course requirements

The result of the conference is to be written with copies provided to the parent/guardian, principal, teacher and placed in the student's cumulative folder.

Medical documentation for all absences beyond the level of twenty (20) days will be required if said absences are to be declared legal.

Tardiness/Punctuality All students are expected to be in homeroom prior to the beginning of homeroom period. Any student arriving late to school must obtain a late slip from the office. Valid excuses for tardiness may include:

Illness

Severe Weather Conditions

Bus Delays

Personal Accident

Family Emergency

Students are also expected to be punctual for each class. Unexcused tardiness to class will also result in disciplinary action. Students who received an unexcused tardy and missed the entire class will receive a “0” for all classwork completed on that day. A student will be allowed three (3) excused tardies per semester. Excuses must be made in writing and must be received within three (3) days of a student’s return to school or the absence/tardy will be considered an unexcused absence for that assigned class period. Additional tardies will be considered "unexcused" and the student will receive a “0” for all assignments given during that class period. The only exception after the third excused tardy is for a medical appointment or "doctor's excuse." Unexcused tardiness to school or class will result in progressive disciplinary action for each offense and parents/guardians will be notified. The progressive discipline will be documented on a student tardy report. The consequences will result in a warning, detention(s) and/or suspension(s).

Educational Tours/Trips Educational tours/trips during the school term, not sponsored by the District but paid for by the parents/guardians, must serve an educational purpose. Student participants must be subject to direction and supervision by an adult acceptable to the parents/guardians and Superintendent. The following conditions will prevail for parents/guardians and students requesting permission for such tours or trips:

1. Educational tours/trips will be considered for approval if the Building Principal determines that such tours/trips will be educationally significant to the student. In order for the Principal to make such a determination, the parent/guardian shall provide a written request at least two (2) weeks prior to the trip, which includes:

a. Days to be missed, not exceeding ten (10) consecutive school days b. Destination of the trip c. Reason the trip could not be taken on days when school is not in session d. Justification as to how the trip is educational e. The two (2) week notification period may be waived by the building principal if he/she has determined the request

could not have been made prior to two (2) or more weeks. 2. When more than one child in the family will be taking the trip, the request must be approved by each building principal. 3. Students are not to be excused for more than two (2) educational trips within one year, with time off school cumulating to not

more than ten (10) school days.

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4. The student shall be responsible for making up work missed in accordance with established District guidelines 5. Students who have not been granted an excused absence will not be permitted to make up any work missed during such

absence. 6. Refusal of such requests will be made if:

a. The building principal feels that the trip is not adequately educational to warrant an absence from school. b. The student was absent or tardy from school for more than 10 days prior to the tour/trip. c. The student has a failing grade in any subject for the grading period prior to the tour/trip.

7. Parents/guardians who are refused permission by the principal for taking students on an educational tour may appeal to the Assistant Superintendent, the Superintendent, and the Board, in that order.

Please note: Students that are absent from school for an approved or unapproved trip will not receive perfect attendance.

STUDENT DRESS AND GROOMING

The school district has the authority to impose limitations on students' dress in school. The school district will not interfere with the right of students and their parents/guardians to make decisions regarding their appearance, except when their choices disrupt the educational program of the schools or constitute a health or safety hazard. Students may be required to wear certain types of clothing while participating in physical education classes, technical education, extracurricular activities, or other situations where special attire may be required to ensure the health or safety of the student. Any emerging trend, which is not addressed below, will be evaluated by the administration based upon the following guidelines:

Dress Code: 1. Length of dresses/skirts - no shorter than 4 1/2" above knee 2. Tight fitting pants/leggings/jeggings/yoga pants - will only be permitted with a dress, skirt or top that falls below the buttocks 3. All pants (boys/girls) must conform to the waistline 4. Slits in dresses/skirts - no shorter than fingertip length 5. Length of shorts (girls/boys) - no shorter than 1" above fingertip 6. Dresses/skirts/pants/shorts/yoga pants made of stretch material such as spandex - not permitted 7. Pants (girls/boys) with slashes/holes above the knee are not permitted 8. Tank tops (girls/boys), with thin straps - not permitted 9. Sleeveless shirts (girls/boys), with large armholes - not permitted 10. Fish net shirts (girls/boys) - not permitted unless proper material is worn underneath 11. Low cut tops, see-through tops, bare shoulder tops, midriffs/cut-off shirts (girls/boys) - not permitted 12. Students are not permitted to wear tops (shirts, sweaters, t-shirts, etc.) that expose the midriff or back while sitting, standing,

walking or bending. 13. Students should wear shoes that do not present a safety risk or cause a disruption to the educational process. This includes

but is not limited to heelys/heelies. 14. Hats/Bandanas (girls/boys) – not permitted 15. Sunglasses (girls/boys) - not permitted without medical note. 16. Students are not permitted to wear chains that could be used as weapons 17. Any clothing through which underwear or any type of undergarment can be seen (girls/boys) – not permitted 18. T-shirts with lettering, symbols, and pictures (girls/boys) are not permitted to be obscene, display sexual innuendoes, swear

words, gore, death symbols, satanic symbols and lettering, or advertise alcohol or drugs. 19. Students will not be permitted to present themselves in such a way that is disruptive to the educational process or constitutes

a health hazard. 20. Students may be required to wear certain types of clothing while participating in physical education classes, shops,

extracurricular activities or other situations which may require special attire to insure the health or safety of the students.

21. Students have the responsibility to keep their bodies, their clothes and their hair clean. School officials may impose limitations on student participation in their regular instructional program where there is evidence that the lack of cleanliness constitutes a health hazard.

Disciplinary action to be taken regarding violations of the Dress Code:

If a student violates the dress code, they will be instructed to report to office, and he/she will remain removed from the rest of the student body until proper adjustments have been made to inappropriate clothing (i.e., change of clothes). 1st and 2nd Infractions:

Student will be directed to office, warning issued and parent must bring a change of clothing or the student receives ISS * 3rd and Subsequent Infractions:

Student will be directed to office, Detention assigned and parent must bring a change of clothing or the student receives ISS

*A pattern of dress code infractions can lead to Defiance of Authority and Suspension will be assigned.

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MASD Discipline Policy Guidelines: The following are several possible "problem areas" in student behavior. The three recommended levels of discipline to be followed are listed beside each area. The severity of the problem will guide the Building Principal in determining the appropriate punishment. Please be advised that parent notification is required at all levels.

PROBLEM LEVEL 1 LEVEL 2 LEVEL 3

TARDINESS Arriving late to school

Warning Suspension Suspension Board Hearing

CLASS CUTTING Being absent without a legal excuse

Detention Suspension Suspension Board Hearing

DEFIANCE OF AUTHORITY Refusing to comply with requests of school personnel

Suspension Suspension Suspension Notify police Board Hearing

*DISORDERLY CONDUCT Including profanity and obscene behavior, behaving in a way disruptive to the orderly educational procedures of the school

Suspension Suspension Suspension Notify police Board Hearing

STUDENT DRESS Failing to observe the school's dress code

Warn student Change clothes

Detention

MOTOR VEHICLE Inappropriately using a motor vehicle on school property

Loss of driving privileges Restitution of damages

Same Same

*BUS BEHAVIOR Not following bus rules

Warn students Suspension of bus privileges – 3 days

Indefinite suspension of bus privileges

*VERBAL ABUSE Using statements which threaten or harm another person

Notify police Suspension

Same Notify police Suspension Board Hearing

FORGERY Writing or using the signature or initials of another person

Suspension Suspension Board Hearing

GAMBLING Participating in games of chance for the purpose of winning money

Detention Suspension Suspension Board Hearing

STEALING Taking property of others without permission Taking property of considerable value

Suspension Restitution

Notify Police Suspension Restitution

Notify Police Suspension Board Hearing

SMOKING Smoking or using tobacco on school property Possession of tobacco on school property

Citation given to student and Suspension

Same Same

ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES AND VAPOR PIPES Smoking electronic cigarettes or vapor pipes on school property

Suspension Same Same

DESTRUCTING OR DEFACING PROPERTY Destructing, mutilating, or defacing school or personal property

Suspension Restitution

Suspension Restitution Notify Policy

Suspension Restitution Notify Policy Board Hearing

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*FIGHTING Engaging in physical contact for the purpose of inflicting harm

Suspension

Suspension Notify Police

Suspension Notify Policy Board Hearing

ALCOHOL AND DRUGS Being under the influence of, using or possessing alcoholic beverages or drugs Selling or distributing alcoholic beverages or drugs

Notify police Suspension/Exclusion

Same Same

*PHYSICAL ASSAULT Physically attacking another person who doesn't wish to engage in a conflict and who hasn't provoked the attack

Suspension Notify Police

Same Suspension Notify Policy Board Hearing

ARSON, WEAPONS, & EXPLOSIVE DEVICES Intentional burning of property, possessing and/or using a dangerous weapon; using, possessing or selling explosive devices

Notify Police Suspension/Exclusion

Same

Notify Policy Suspension Board Hearing

*EXTORTION Soliciting of money, or something of value, from another person, in return for protection, or in connection with a threat to inflict harm

Suspension Parent Conference Restitution

Suspension/Exclusion Notify Policy Restitution

Restitution Suspension Board Hearing

CLASSROOM RESPONSIBILITY Not meeting the rules established by the teacher

Suspension Suspension Suspension

**HAZING When occurring in school organization

Suspension from organization

Exclusion from organization

*OVER-MANIFESTATION OF ROMANTIC AFFECTION

Warning Detention Suspension

CHEATING In class or on tests, class work or homework

Test failure or report period failure

Course Failure

*CYBER ABUSE Use of direct behaviors such as teasing, hitting, threatening or restraining another either expressed or written including via computers or other communication devices at school events

Suspension Suspension Notify Police

Suspension Notify police Board Hearing

*TAUNTING Repetitive and persistent patterns of verbal and/or nonverbal behaviors directed by one or more children on another child.

Warning Detention Suspension

*Includes Bullying - Refer to Policy 249 Bullying/Cyberbullying ** Refer to Policy 247 Hazing and Policy 249 Bullying/Cyberbullying Regardless of anything to the contrary contained in the above policy guidelines, the Administration and School Board retain their inherent power to suspend or expel students for disobedience or misconduct and to institute proceedings in Juvenile Court against students for incorrigibility, truancy, insubordination or other bad conduct or if the presence of any students attending school is detrimental to the welfare of the school or account of the foregoing, as authorized in Article XIII, Section 1318 and 1338 of the Public School Code.

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Use/Possession of Drugs/Alcohol – It is the express policy of the Mars Area School District to prevent, prohibit and

otherwise discourage chemical use/abuse by students via education, intervention, referral to legal authorities and the imposition of educational penalties when necessary. The foundation of the District’s Controlled Substances/Paraphernalia Policy is the belief that students and the entire school community benefit educationally, socially and personally when the entire student body is free of all types of chemical dependence. Violation of the policy will result in the suspension or expulsion of the student violator from school. Furthermore, student violators who have a parking pass will have their parking privileges revoked for the remainder of the school year.

Drug/Contraband/Controlled Substance Policy Violations - A student shall not manufacture, knowingly or intentionally possess, use, consume, be under the influence of, offer for sale, possess with the intent to sell, or distribute, transport, assist in the concealment of, dispose of, or dispense any drug, contraband, controlled substance and/or any paraphernalia related to the following: 1. On district property before, during, and after school hours 2. On district property during a District sponsored and/or approved activity, function, or event 3. Away from district property during a school sponsored and/or approved activity, function, or event

4. On a school bus traveling to/from a school and/or district sponsored approved activity, function, or event, the use of a drug/contraband/controlled substance authorized by a licensed physician must be registered with the school nurse or it will be considered a violation of this policy 5. A student may not carry any medication, including Tylenol or aspirin, while in school.

Student Drug and Alcohol Procedures - The following is a summary of the procedures used to implement the Controlled Substances/Paraphernalia Policy (No. 227). This document was prepared to provide a concise summary of the procedures. All policies may be viewed in their entirety at the office of the Superintendent. The procedures listed herein are consistent with those set forth in the Controlled Substances/Paraphernalia Policy as well as the Student Discipline Policy (No. 218) and the Medications Policy (No. 210). In each and every instance deemed to be a violation of policy, the District may immediately initiate expulsion proceedings. Students deemed to exhibit “cooperative behavior” as defined by the policy including comply ing with request and recommendations of the staff and school personnel shall be handled as follows.

Violators of the policy will:

1. Receive a 3 to 10 days Out of School Suspension. 2. Receive notification that the police have been notified. 3. Complete a Drug and Alcohol assessment; the assessment will be by a licensed Drug and Alcohol facility at parental

expense. Prior to any assessment being completed, the Drug and Alcohol facility must communicate with the school about the nature of the policy violation.

4. Comply with all recommendations of the Drug and Alcohol Assessment. 5. Attend at least one scheduled appointment of any recommendation of the Drug and Alcohol Assessment prior to

returning to school from suspension. 6. Agree to sign a waiver allowing Building Administrators and the Student Assistance Program Coordinator to

communicate with the Drug and Alcohol facility. This communication will solely be for the purpose of making sure that the student is attending all scheduled appointments and that their behavior is cooperative.

A student deemed to be uncooperative as defined in the policy and including resistance or refusal on the part of the student to comply with a request or recommendations of the staff, school personnel and/or licensed drug and alcohol facility shall be subject to the immediate initiation of expulsion proceedings. Depending on the severity of the infraction, school administrators may immediately consult the superintendent to initiate expulsion proceedings. Drugs/Contraband/Controlled Substances shall include any beverage or substance containing alcohol, contraband, controlled substances, or illegal substances as defined by The Controlled Substance, Drug, Device, and Cosmetic Act, 35 P.S. 780-101 et seq. or any other substance represented by the possessor to be a drug/contraband/controlled substance (look-alike substance). Examples of drugs/contraband/ controlled substances include but are not limited to; (i) marijuana; (ii) cocaine; (iii) beer; (iv) wine; (v) liquor of any kind; vi) glue; (vii) speed/amphetamines; (viii) morphine; (ix) heroin; (x) codeine; (xi) lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD); and (xii) mescaline; (xiii) steroids; and any other substance not registered with the school nurse and given in accordance with School District Policy for administering of medication to students in school. Drug Paraphernalia – Includes any utensil or item, which in the school’s judgment can be associated with the use of drugs, contraband, or controlled substance as defined by this policy. Examples include, but are not limited to, roach clips, pipes, razor blades, rolling papers, syringes, and measuring scales. According to the Medications Policy (No. 210), each parent/guardian must follow the procedure established with each school nurse. Prior to any medication (prescription or over-the-counter) being brought onto school property, the parent/guardian must contact the school nurse to obtain a prescription medication form or over-the-counter medication form. At no time will students

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

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be permitted to carry medication or dispense medication without going through the school nurse. Over-the-counter medications include, but are not limited to, aspirin, Tylenol, cough syrup, etc.

Use/Possession of Tobacco Products – The use and/or possession of tobacco products at any time in the school

building, on school property or at any school-related activity is NOT PERMITTED. A student found using or possessing tobacco products commits a summary offense and a citation will be filed by the principal and sent to the District Justice’s O ffice for further processing, which will result in a $50.00 fine plus court costs and/or admitted to alternative adjudication.

Sexual Harassment – No person should make any unwelcomed or unwanted sexual remarks, advances or inappropriate

physical contact creating an offensive learning environment and interfering with an individual’s educational performance. Sexual harassment WILL NOT BE TOLERATED and disciplinary actions will be taken according to the Mars Area Middle School Discipline and MASD Policy.

Bullying – An act of bullying, by either an individual student or a group of students, is prohibited on school district property or

at school-related functions, which includes, without limitation, buses, bus stops, and school sponsored activities. Bullying refers to dynamic and repetitive persistent patterns of verbal and/or non-verbal behaviors directed by one or more children on another child that are intended to deliberately inflict physical, verbal, or emotional abuse in the presence of a real or perceived power differential. Bullying WILL NOT BE TOLERATED and disciplinary actions will be taken according to the Mars Area Middle

School Discipline and MASD Policy.

Weapons – Any student possessing a weapon in a school building, on school grounds or on the school bus will receive out-

of-school suspension and be recommended to the School Board for expulsion from school. In addition, the student shall be reported to the police. “Weapons” shall include, but not be limited to, any knife, cutting instrument or tools, firearms, shotgun, rifle, and other tools or instruments capable of inflicting serious bodily harm. For the purpose of defining "possession of a weapon," the term "weapon" does not include any device which is authorized by the school for a legitimate educational purpose, such as tools, scissors, compasses, pencils, implements for art class, and the like or any device or object which has been given prior approval by the Building Principal in connection with any educational program or co-curricular activity, unless utilized as follows. Any student using any such object in and aggressive, threatening and/or intimidating manner (or if used in an attack on another person) shall be considered "in possession of a weapon."

Terroristic Threats, Acts & Inappropriate Statements – Any student who communicates terroristic acts towards

another person shall be immediately suspended. Based on further investigation, law enforcement officials may be notified and an expulsion hearing with the School Board may be recommended. Students acting in this manner will be subject to disciplinary action specified in the Mars Area Middle School Discipline Code and MASD Policy

Technology Devices – Except when used as an aid to instruction by the classroom instructor, use of mobile devices and

related technology is prohibited. Unless the teacher specifically designs classroom instruction to include the use of mobile devices as described above, such devices must be powered off and secured in a manner in which the device is neither seen nor heard as not to distract from the education process. This includes all ear buds and head phones. Violations will result in the following disciplinary measures: 1. Detention 2. In-School Suspension (ISS) and parent notification 3. Out-of-School Suspension (OSS) and parent notification

Computer Networks/Internet Use – All computer, internet and network use must be used for an educational purpose

and under the direction of staff. Violations can result in In-School Suspension (ISS), Out-of-School Suspension (OSS) and/or loss of computer, internet and network use.

Class Cut – A student must attend each of his/her classes. If a student becomes ill, he/she must report to the nurse’s

office. A class cut will result in detention for the first cut and suspension for the 2nd and subsequent cuts.

Truancy – Student responsibility includes regular school attendance. Repeated truancy will result in progressive discipline.

Class work or tests given on the day of unexcused/illegal absence cannot be made up. The grade for the day will be “0”.

Parents will be notified in all cases of truancy.

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Suspension – Suspension is exclusion from school for a period of one (1) to ten (10) consecutive school days. Out-of-

School Suspension and In-School Suspension will be used as disciplinary actions when students are not adhering to the discipline policy. Students will not be permitted on any district property or permitted to participate in/attend any activities from the first through the last day of an Out-of-School Suspension. When a student is assigned in-school suspension and fails to comply with rules and expectations of the in-school suspension, parents will be called to pick that student up for the remainder of that day. A failed day of in-school suspension will need to be repeated and another day added for non-compliance. The principal shall recommend suspension when the student, on school grounds or during a school activity off grounds, commits any of the following acts or any other violent act that endangers the safety of others or interferes with the rights of others to receive an education:

1. Failure to make up earned detentions 2. Causes or attempts to cause damage to school or private property 3. Steals or attempts to steal school property 4. Steals or attempts to steal private property 5. Physical Assault - causes or attempts to cause physical injury to another person 6. Knowingly possesses or transmits, or is under the influence of any narcotic, drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine,

barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage or intoxicant of any kind including “look-a-like”. 7. Knowingly possesses or transmits any firearm, knife, explosive, or other dangerous objects 8. Repeatedly defies the authority of administration, supervisors, teachers and other staff members (Disrespect) 9. Repeatedly violates the state attendance regulations 10. Repeatedly defies rules of classroom or school 11. Uses obscenities (verbal or physical gestures) 12. Threatens or harasses another student or teacher 13. The use of technology device(s) including cell phones (cell phones should be turned off during the school day) for non-

educational purposes: 14. Violation of Bring Your Own Technology policy 15. Violation of Acceptable Use of Computer Networks/Internet policy 16. Violates dress policy after being warned by teachers or administrators 17. Inappropriate behavior such as horseplay and throwing objects 18. Fighting or shoving another student 19. Leaving school without permission from school officials or truancy 20. Forgery 21. Disorderly Conduct / Unacceptable Actions that are disruptive to the educational process 22. Terroristic Threat / Acts 23. Defiant Trespass 24. Possession of tobacco products, e-cigarettes or vapor pipes

Regardless of anything to the contrary contained in these policy guidelines, the Administration and School Board retain the inherent power to suspend or expel students for disobedience or misconduct and to institute proceedings, in Juvenile Court against students for incorrigibility, truancy, insubordination or other bad conduct or if the presence of any students attending school is detrimental to the welfare of the school.

Expulsion - Expulsion is exclusion from school by the Board of Education for a period exceeding ten (10) school days and

may be a permanent expulsion from the school rolls. All expulsions require a formal hearing. 1. Principal may recommend expulsion to the superintendent for repeated violations of any act, which causes a student to be suspended from school. This includes any act for which the student's removal is necessary to protect the physical safety of others or to prevent considerable interference with the rights of others to receive an education.

2. Principal may recommend expulsion for the first offense if said offense is extremely dangerous to the health and welfare of staff and students.

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IMPORTANT ITEMS TO KNO

Change of Address: Please inform the Guidance Secretary if you change your address. You will be required to provide proof of residence (i.e., Mortgage Agreement, Utility bill) within twenty (20) days of the move. Also, inform the office if your home phone number or emergency contact phone numbers change.

Withdrawing from School: If you are leaving the Mars Area School District, a parent and/or guardian must contact the Guidance Secretary to let her know what the student’s last day will be. The student will turn in books, locks, etc. and get their teacher’s signatures & final grade on the withdrawal form. A parent/guardian signature is required on the withdrawal form.

Guest Teachers: We are fortunate to have guest teachers as substitutes when our regular teachers are absent. A substitute teacher deserves the highest courtesy and cooperation from students at all times. Students will automatically receive a discipline referral to administration for any misbehavior.

Lost and Found: It is helpful that all personal items are clearly labeled. Items turned in to the Student Activity Office that are plainly marked will be returned to the owner. Unmarked items will be placed in the “Lost and Found” (located outside the Student Activity Office). Please check with that office if you have lost something. Unclaimed items are donated to worthy charities.

Gum Chewing: Gum chewing is not allowed. Careless disposal of gum in drinking fountains, on furniture and floors presents cleaning and sanitation problems.

Open Containers: Due to a variety of safety and health concerns, students are not to partake from any type of open container (i.e., a water bottle, thermos, jug, etc.) during school hours. This means that no student is to be drinking from a container or passing one around for others to drink from. Exceptions will include only the following:

1. If one is drinking from a container during breakfast or lunch in the cafeteria; and/or 2. If one is in need of liquids during the day for medical reasons/concerns. If this is the case, then the student will need

to have written documentation from a physician indicating such. Keep in mind that this note must be presented to the nurse and passed through the office prior to a student taking advantage of this particular privilege.

If a student does not follow the above request, then he/she will receive a discipline referral.

IMPORTANT ITEMS TO KNOW

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What is the Student Assistance Program?

Mars Area’s Student Assistance Program (SAP) helps the school to identify students who are experiencing behavior and/or academic difficulties, which pose a barrier to the student’s learning and success in school. SAP offers support to those students and their families. At the core of SAP is a team of school employees, who have received specialized training from Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Approved SAP Training Providers. The Team may include teachers, nurses, counselors and administrators, and is often referred to as the “Core Team” or “SAP Team”. Representatives from community agencies may also meet with the Team as consultants. One of the most important tasks of a SAP Team is to build a working partnership with families, focusing on the student’s success as their common goal. In addition, the Team may offer student-centered services such as education support groups, in-school mentoring and after-care resources. The Team may also assist families in identifying options for professional support when a problem is beyond the scope of the school. Participation in the SAP is voluntary and is offered as a source of help and support for the student and family. When a student is in need of assistance outside of the school setting, knowing how and where to find assistance can be overwhelming. In cases where a problem lies beyond the limits of the school, it is the Team’s responsibility to inform the parent of the problem affecting the child’s performance in school and help the student and his/her family to access services and resources available in the community. How does it work?

There are several basic steps a Student Assistance Team takes to build an effective partnership with families. The Team contacts the family as soon as it receives information indicating that school performance is being affected. The first contact is often made over the phone, at which time the family is invited to meet with Team members to share information, observations, student strengths and common concerns. With the family’s permission, a Student Assistance Team member may then meet with the student to gather further information. Or, the Team and family may meet with the student to discuss the barrier(s) to learning. Next, the Core Team will present the family with options and resources, both in and out of school that may be of some help to the student. The family then decides on the plan of action they find best suits their child. The plan may or may not include the Student Assistance Team. Whatever the decision, the family and Team attempt to maintain ongoing communication to monitor student progress and success in school. If the family does not want the student to work with the Team, they are invited to contact the Team at any time in the future should the situation or their wishes change. The Family / Student Assistance Partnership

The goal of the Family/Student Assistance Partnership is to encourage and support success in school. The Student Assistance Team attempts at all times to form a respectful family/school partnership. The family and school share the common goal of supporting and maintaining student success. As in all good partnerships, both parties have rights and responsibilities. The Student Assistance Team provides the family with concrete information regarding observable student behavior in school. The Team also aids in identifying learning barriers and suggests resources and available options. In turn, the family makes decisions for their child, using the information provided by the Student Assistance Team. For more information about Mars Area Middle School Student Assistance Program, contact Tanis Rose at 724-625-3145.

If you need additional information or clarification, please notify your principal.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Language Programs for LEP and Immigrant Students

The Mars Area School District develops and provides a planned educational program for each student with Limited English Proficiency. These programs enable students to meet academic standards and succeed in school. Each program will include:

1. Standards-based English as a second language instruction at the appropriate proficiency level; 2. Content area instruction aligned with academic standards and adapted to meet the needs of the student; and 3. Assessment processes that reflect academic standards and instruction.

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Notification of Rights under FERPA

The Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act (FERPA) affords parents and students over age 18 (“eligible students”) certain rights with respect to the students education records. They are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s education record within 45 days of the day the District receives a request for access.

Parents or eligible students should submit to the school principal (or appropriate school official) a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate or misleading.

Parents or eligible students may ask Mars Area School District to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write to the school principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading. If the District decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the District will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified or the right to a hearing.

3. The right to consent to disclosures or personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the District as an administrator, supervisor, instructor or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the District has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her task.

A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the District discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which the student seeks or intends to enroll. (Note: FERPA requires a school to make a reasonable attempt to notify the student of the record request unless it states in its annual notification that it intends to forward records upon request.)

School records are always open and available to parents, and ONLY to school officials who have legitimate “need to know” information about a child. Parents seeking to review a record should make an appointment with their child’s counselor or special educator. If requesting a copy of your child’s record, it is best to put it in writing and submit requests for cumulative records (report cards, attendance, etc.) to the principal and requests for confidential records (IEPs, psychological assessments, etc.) to the Office of Special Education. By law the District must furnish these copies within 45 days.

4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office; U.S. Department of Education; 400 Maryland Ave.; SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-4605.

Evaluation & Privacy Rights of Students

Mars Area School District and its employees are required by law to protect the rights of students. The foundation of this law is the Federal Family Educational Rights & Privacy Act of 1974 and Pennsylvania rules and regulations governing special education and Chapter 15 students. Educational Records, Directory Information & Personally Identifiable Information

Educational Records consist of information directly related to a student that is maintained by an educational agency. Personally Identifiable Information includes the student’s name, the name of the parent or other family members, a personal identifier or list of personal characteristics that would make the student’s identity easily traceable. Educational Records and Personally Identifiable Information cannot be disclosed or released without written parental consent or, if a student is over age 18, student consent. Certain information, called “Directory Information,” can be released without consent. Directory Information means information contained in an education record of a student, which would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. The School District has designated the following as Directory Information: student’s name, address, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student. Written parental consent is necessary for disclosure of information and educational records, unless the student is transferring between school districts. Cumulative and confidential records may be transferred between districts without parental authorization. The consent must:

1. Specify the record that may be disclosed, 2. State the purpose of the disclosure; and 3. Identify the parties to whom the disclosure may be made.

Furthermore, Mars Area School District maintains a written record of disclosures for parents to inspect in case information has been released.

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Use of Student Photos Photographs of Mars Area students may be taken periodically throughout the school year for use by the district in

publications and for local newspapers. Mars Area provides opportunities for reporters or photographers to interview and/or photograph students. A staff member is always present. If you prefer that your child not be interviewed or photographed for publicity purposes, please notify your child’s building principal in writing by September 22, 2017.

Special Education Programming The Special Education Program of Mars Area School District provides a free, appropriate public education to

exceptional students according to state and federal mandates. In compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEIA) and directives from the Federal Office of Education, the District provides inclusive services to the students on an Individual Educational Plan (IEP). These services and programs are designed to meet the needs of students with physical, sensory, mental and/or emotional challenges. The District provides a continuum of services ranging from inclusive programming to full-time private placements for eligible students with demonstrated needs. Life Skills Support classes are offered through the Intermediate Unit (IU) but housed in Mars Area High School. The IU offers many other programs for students whose needs are more intensive, and related services such as vision support, orientation and mobility training, physical therapy, occupational therapy, hearing support and audiological services. If a student is suspected of having a disability, they should be referred to an Intervention Planning Team, which will screen the data collected and make a recommendation for testing, if needed. Once referred for a multi-disciplinary evaluation and written parental consent is given, then evaluation reports are compiled with parent involvement. The evaluation reports identify the disability and, if appropriate, the need for specialized instruction. Parents are then invited to participate in a meeting where the results of the evaluation are discussed. If warranted, an Individualized Educational Program (IEP) is then developed for specialized instructional services for the student. The Individualized Educational Planning (IEP) Team develops and writes the child’s program identifying measurable goals for success. The team consists of District staff that may include the principal, special education teacher, school psychologist, a general educator and other administrative staff. Parents are an integral part of the IEP team and should be physically present at the IEP meeting, after which a Notice of Recommended Educational Placement (NOREP) is issued identifying the frequency of services and the student’s placement.

Homeless Student Guidelines

In accordance with the Every Student Succeeds Act of 2015 and McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children & Youth Act of 2001, local schools are required to identify children who are homeless. The intention is to ensure that homeless children and youth have access to free appropriate public education on an equal basis with other children. Children, who are homeless, including those living with others, may qualify for assistance with school lunch, with school supplies/materials, with tutoring, and with transportation so that they can remain in their school of origin. If you believe your child(ren) or know of a child(ren) who may qualify for this service, please contact the principal or guidance counselor of the child(ren)’s school. You may also contact the Mars Area Homeless Program Liaison, at (724) 625-1518. Homeless children may be identified as living in the following situations: • Public or private shelters; • Public or private places not designated for/or ordinarily used as regular sleeping accommodations such as vehicles,

parks, motels, campgrounds, etc.; • Living with a parent in a domestic violence shelter; • Individuals and/or families living with relatives or friends because of a lack of housing; • Living in transitional housing programs; • Runaway children (under age 18) and children who have been abandoned or forced out of the home by parents or

other caretakers. Children may be in temporary shelters awaiting assistance from social service agencies, or may live alone on the street or move from place to place among family members, friends or acquaintances. This also includes such youth from 18 to 21 of age who may still be eligible for educational services in regular or special education;

• Children of migrant families who lack adequate housing; • Children abandoned in hospitals or awaiting foster care; or • School age, unwed mothers or expectant mothers living in houses for unwed mothers when they have no other

available living accommodations. If your living situation changes during the school year or over the summer, and you and your child(ren) become homeless, please be sure to contact the schools. We will work with you so that your child(ren)’s education is disrupted as little as possible.

21

MARS AREA MIDDLE SCHOOL LIBRARY

Guidelines for Creating a Works Cited Page using MLA8

A Works Cited page gives credit to the authors or creators who originally researched and published the

information. Failing to correctly give credit for the information means you are committing plagiarism.

Basic Rules:

1. Begin your Works Cited page on a separate page at the end of your research paper.

2. Label the page Works Cited (do not italicize/bold the words Works Cited or put them in quotation

marks.) Center the words Works Cited at the top of the page.

3. Double space all citations, but do not skip spaces between entries.

4. Indent the second and subsequent lines of citations by 0.5 inches (use a Tab) to create a hanging

indent.

5. URLs are suggested for electronic resources. Please include them.

6. Use italics (instead of underlining) for titles when you are typing the Works Cited page.

Underline the titles if you are handwriting the Works Cited page.

7. Use a period at the end of each entry.

8. Put all entries in alphabetical order by the author’s last name or, if the author is not given, by the

first important word in the title, excluding the words a, an or the.

Here is an example of a Works Cited page with five entries:

Works Cited

“Greek and Roman Mythology.” Fact Monster. Pearson Education, 2017,

www.factmonster.com/ipka/A0197622.html21. Accessed 1 Mar. 2017.

Kaster, Carolyn. “World War II Air Show.” AP Images, Associated Press, 3 June 2006,

classic.apimages.com/OneUp. Accessed 1 Mar. 2017.

Rosenbaum, Ron and Taylor Branch. "From Selma to Ferguson." Smithsonian, vol. 45, no. 9,

Jan. 2015, p. 29. EBSCOhost,

search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=mfm&AN=100125841&site=ehost-live.

Accessed 1 Mar. 2017.

Smith, John. "Manifest Destiny." Encyclopedia Americana. 3rd ed., 1987.

Tiner, John Hudson. 100 Scientists Who Changed the World. World Almanac Library, 2003.

WORKS CITED GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS ARE FOUND AT THE

MIDDLE SCHOOL LIBRARY PAGE ON SCHOOLOGY.