2008-2009 Teacher Handbook

DECATUR MIDDLE SCHOOL HISTORY Looking To The Past The first school taught anywhere near the present town of Decatur was in 1856 in a log house located on “Beck or Brady Branch”, near the point of the Boyd and Decatur road crossing, which is about half a mile southeast of the Baptist College in Decatur, Texas, according to Cliff D. Cates in his “Pioneer History of Wise County”. The first instruction inside the city limits began in the fall and winter of 1857 in a log cabin constructed as a residence on the site of the present post office. The lone teacher was Frank Pettit from Tennessee. School was held at various places in town from 1857 to 1882, when the first school for the Decatur Independent School District was erected north of the football stadium. It was a twostory rock building and housed all grades. There were four rooms on the first floor and three rooms and an office on the second floor and was built for $15,800. This building was remodeled and added onto several times through the next 49 years when in 1931 the first gym built in Decatur was constructed on the northwest corner of the campus. It was still in use as the Decatur Intermediate School gym through the 2005-2006 academic year. In 1939, a separate structure was built to the south of the gym and became the first High School. It is now part of the Intermediate School and houses classrooms, auditorium, and is distinguished by its red tile roof. The original two-story building still housed 1-8 at this time. In 1961, the two-story building was demolished after the construction of a 1-4 elementary school (demolished in 1992) and a 5-8 junior high (still used as the Decatur Intermediate School through the 2005-2006 academic year). In 1973, a new high school was built on West Thompson Street and the old high school became the junior high. It was at this point that it was named Decatur Middle School and its first principal was J. E. Carson. In 1983, a facility was built on Eagle Drive and opened to 250 students with sixth grade being included with the 7th and 8th grades. Mr. Carson served as principal for 17 years until 1990 when he retired. The 2006-2007 academic school year brought yet another change as the previous High School facility on West Thompson Street became Decatur Middle School. Decatur Middle School now is the academic home to over four hundred students in grades 7 and 8. It is known for its great students and its strong unified teaching staff that is committed to all students succeeding.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Decatur Middle School History School Board School Directories Decatur Middle School Personnel Absence From Duty Activity Schedules Alternative Staff Development Activities Arrival & Departures Asbestos Management Plan Assemblies & Pep Rallies Attendance Procedures Bad Weather Budget Cell Phones & Telecommunication Devices Cheating, Academic Dishonesty & Plagiarism Class Celebrations Classroom Care and Maintenance Classroom Discipline Conference Periods Confidentiality Campus Improvement Plan District Policy Documents Duties Eduphoria Ethics Emergency Procedures Faculty Meetings Field and Co-Curricular Trips 504 Students Fund Raisers Grade Documentation System Late Academic Work Lesson Plans Mentor Program Modifications Parent Conferences Parent Teacher Organization Parking Pest Control Planners Progress Reports Purchasing Procedures Report Cards Re-Teaching School Board Meetings Semester Exam Exemptions

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1 1-2 2-3 3-4 4 4 4 4 5 5 5 5-6 6 6 6 6-7 7 8 8-9 9 9-10 11-14 15 15 16 16-17 18 18 18-19 19-20 20 20-21 21 21 21-22 22 22 22 22-23 23 23-24 25 25-26 26 26

TABLE OF CONTENTS Site Based Decision Making Committee Suggestion/Information Concerning Discipline Substitutes Supplies Tardiness TAKS Testing Dates Teacher Dress Code Teacher Lounge Teachers Mailboxes Technology Telephone Text Books Work Requests Videos Visitors on Campus

27 27-31 31-32 32 32-33 33 33 33 34 34 34 34 34-35 35 35

Appendices A-1 Aesop Phone System Instructions A-2 Campus Days Reservation Application A-3 District Paid Leave Form A-4 Out of District Workshop B- DMS Classroom Guidance & Development Plan C- Texas Public School Nutrition Policy D- Field Trips & Student Co-Curricular Permission Form E- Teacher Conference/Daily Schedule

36-37 38 39 40 41 42-44 45 46

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DECATUR INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT School Board Joey Luttrell - President Alan White -Vice President Ruby Quanz – Secretary Dr. Jeff Alling Kevin Haney Jerry Howard Laura Montgomery

School Directory Central Administration...................................................................393-7100 501 East Collins.........................................................FAX 627-3141 Dr. Gary Gindt – Superintendent Gary Micinski – Asst. Superintendent of Finance David Mosley – Asst. Superintendent of Administrative Services Pam Holland – Director of Instructional Services Debbie Shaw – Director of Assessment and ELL Services Cassandra Darst – Director of Special Programs Meredith Culpepper – Director of Federal Programs & Education Foundation Kyle Story – Athletic Director Troy Bagwell – Director of Technology Teela Watson – Director of Instructional Technology Cheryl Mosley – Director of Nutrition G.C. and Maurine Rann Elementary School..................................393-7600 1300 Deer Park Road.................................................FAX 627-6198 Melonie Christian – Principal Deborah Brown – Assistant Principal Terri Vbra – Counselor J.E. and Betty Carson Elementary School......................................393-7500 2100 South Business Hwy. 81/287............................FAX 627-4792 Kim Barker – Principal Kyle Sorg – Assistant Principal Darla Hakanson – Counselor Decatur Intermediate School..........................................................393-7400 1200 Eagle Drive.......................................................FAX 627-0082 Dan Martin – Principal Ken Washam – Assistant Principal Sharon Montcalm – Counselor Decatur Middle School...................................................................393-7300 1201 West Thompson.................................................FAX 627-2497 Dewayne Tamplen – Principal 4

Chris Cordell – Assistant Principal Cindy Barksdale – Counselor Decatur High School......................................................................393-7200 750 East Eagle Summit Drive....................................FAX 627-3669 Jason Cochran – Principal Karen Decker – DAEP Principal Terri Ulberg – Assistant Principal Sheila McCollum – Assistant Principal Counselors: JoAnn Lancaster, Glenda Goodwin, Neal Hall Decatur Middle School Personnel Last Name Aaron Aguilar Archer

First Name Tina Maria Vinessa

Blessing Brown Cordell Crawford Delgado Dennard Diaczaenko Edwards Egle Estel Furrh Galante Garn Grimes Grundy Hailey Heiens

Jarrett Rebecca Chris Pamela Fabieola Doris De De Suzanna Rene Vance Mollie Dominic Karen Tony Cindy Melissa Lisa

Hensley Hinson Hornsby

Jil Ginger Chris

Howland Jackson Jean Lemieux Lemons Lopez Martinez Mattison McComis McDonald

Shana Glenda Randon Rhonda Sarah Laura Martha Teresa Kayla Julie

Position 7th Math Custodian 8th Science/Science Dept. Chair/Girls’ Athletic Coordinator Industrial Technology/Ag Science ESL Assistant Principal th th 7 /8 Science Custodian (MPB, Field House) 8th Science/Girls’ Athletics 7th Language Arts/Yearbook 7th History/Theatre Arts/WEB team Technology Apps./CI Coach/ATO Coordinator 7th/8th History/Boys’ Athletics 7th Language Arts 8th Math /Boys’ Athletics General Instructional Aide 8th History/PE-Boys’/Mentor Teacher ISS Supervisor Special Ed Instructional Aide 7th Language Arts/Lang. Arts Dept. Chair/ Mentor Teacher 7th Math/Math Dept. Chair 7th Science 7th/8th History/PE-Boys’/Boys’ Athletics/ Boys’ Athletic Coordinator Reading Specialist Nurse’s Aid 7th/8th Science/ Boys’ Athletics 7th Language Arts 7th Math/Dance Custodian Office Aide 8th History/History Dept. Chair 7th/8th PE & Athletics 8th Start /Math 5

McMahan

Brett

Art/Comp Tech. /Technology Coordinator

Decatur Middle School Personnel (continued) Last Name

First Name

Position

McNiel Eric Band Director Meador Barbara Attendance Clerk/Receptionist Murdock Tisha Office Manager/PEIMS Coordinator Paque Brian ACE Teacher Paque Shauna Content Mastery/Resource/Math Lab Reed Tammy Skills for Living/Vocational Tech Sherman Belinda Special Ed Instructional Aide/Tardy Clerk Short Melrose Office Aide/Student Registration Sneed Amberly Student Leadership/ Choir Tally Cathy 8th Language Arts Tamplen Dewayne Principal Taylor Melvin Custodian Williams Jamelyn Read Right Tutor Willis Cara 8th Math Woodruff Karen Library/Math-Science Team Coach ___________________________________________ ABSENCE FROM DUTY When an employee is absent from duty, the employee must contact either by phone or computer the District system for absences, AESOP (Appendix A-1). On rare occasions an employee may need to be gone for only one period (funeral, doctor’s appointment, etc.). In such cases, it is permissible for the employee to get someone to cover for them. However, any such arrangement must first be cleared by the campus administration and the employee must arrange for another staff member to cover their assignments. A substitute employed for any part of four (4) periods including conference periods is considered one-half (1/2) day. A substitute employed for any part of five (5) or more periods including conference periods is considered one full day. http://www.aesoponline.com/ Campus Paid Leave If you plan to miss school, for a school related function, and want the campus to pay for your substitute you must submit the Campus Days Reservation Application (Appendix A-2), as early in the school year as possible, due to the limited number of allotted absence days. District Paid Leave If you plan to miss school, for a school related function, and want the district to pay for your substitute you must submit a District Paid Leave Form (Appendix A-3) to your campus principal and await central administrative approval. •

This form needs to be approved at all levels a minimum of 7 school days before the event occurs.

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Out-of-District Workshops/PDIP Professional employees may use the Out-of -District Workshop Principal’s Pre-Approval Form (Appendix A-4) to request their principal’s prior approval for out-of-district workshops. •

The form shown in the Teacher Handbook is a sample only: This form is found on the DISD web page under Staff Resources/PDIP

ACTIVITY SCHEDULES All activities must be cleared by the administration and entered on the Master Calendar. Also, provide a name and telephone number of the person who will be in charge. All events will be listed on the monthly calendars distributed to staff, parents, and community at least 12 weeks in advance. ALTERNATIVE STAFF DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES Alternative staff development activities are not encouraged; however, there are some instances where it may be acceptable. Alternative activities are limited to one (1) staff development day per year. Advance notice should be made in writing to the campus administration for consideration. The campus administration will determine if there is a day that is appropriate for substitution and determine if approval may be granted. A Verification of Attendance form or a certificate from the workshop or development activity must be signed by the appropriate presenter at the time of the workshop or activity and submitted to the campus administration upon return to work. The campus administration will forward the Verification form to Central Administration for audit purposes. Personnel may not use DISD funds to pay registration fees, travel, etc. and may not attend alternative staff development activities on days when students are in school. If the above guidelines are not met, it will be considered an absence from duty and submitted to Central Administration as such. ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE Teachers are to be on campus by 7:40 a.m. and in their classrooms by 7:55 a.m. unless they are assigned to a morning duty. Teachers are to remain on campus until 3:45 p.m. Personal business should be conducted after school hours whenever possible. If it becomes necessary for a teacher to leave due to an emergency, the office will arrange for someone to take over their class until a substitute can be secured. ASBESTOS MANAGEMENT PLAN Policy CKA The district is committed to providing a safe environment for employees. An accredited management planner has developed an asbestos management plan for each piece of district property. A copy of the district’s management plan is kept in the Central Office and is available for inspection during normal business hours. Please contact David Mosley, Assistant Superintendent for Administrative Services at 940-393-7101 for additional information. 7

ASSEMBLIES & PEP RALLIES Teachers are required to go to all assemblies and pep rallies with their classes and remain until the conclusion of the program. Teachers are encouraged to participate in specific days, etc. Please be watchful of student behavior and supervise your students. It also helps students to become involved when they see their teachers and administrators involved and interested. It is another opportunity to model appropriate behavior and school spirit for them. DMS ATO PROCEDURES Academic Tutorial Opportunities (ATO) will be used by DMS staff to help ensure that DMS students have learned the concepts being taught. Teachers will fill out ATO paperwork on Tuesdays for missing assignments and notify parents of the ATO assignment (phone call during conference, or have student call during Eagle Period) at least 1 day prior to the ATO assignment. ATO paperwork should be turned in to Mrs. Egle at the end of 7th period each day. Highest grade possible for late work, including work turned in through ATO will be a 70. Also remember that students, who wish to utilize the computer lab as a study hall to complete assignments before they are due, may do so. An informational letter will be handed out to each DMS student to explain the ATO process and the computer lab schedule. ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES Please check your classroom attendance carefully each period. Attendance is to be recorded based on your observation alone. Attendance is an important record not only for funding but also for other legal matters dealing with students. Due to such issues, correct attendance is paramount in tracking students, and should not be recorded on the basis of information provided by students. Seating charts have been effective in checking attendance and should be considered. They are particularly effective in assisting substitute teachers in recording attendance. If a student is not in your classroom when the roll is taken, that student is to be recorded as absent. The attendance clerk will determine how that student will be recorded if your report is found to be in error, or the student is found to be tardy for the period. First Day of School Only You will not use Skyward Attendance the first day of school. Attendance will be registered on paper only. (Should this change, you will be notified.) 1.

Complete the current academic year’s Beginning Attendance sheets by entering students’ names not on your class roster but are in the classroom with a schedule 8

2. 3.

showing your class. Also enter names of students who are on your roster but not in the classroom (no shows). On your printed class roster sheets write “No Show” by students’ names on your roster but not in your class. Add students’ names not on your roster but present with a schedule showing your class. Clip both sheets on your classroom door within the first 15 minutes of class. BAD WEATHER

In the event of school closing, the decision to cancel school will be made as early as possible by the Central Office. Teachers, office staff, maintenance personnel, and cafeteria personnel will be notified by telephone by the principal or a designated telephone committee member. Information regarding school closing is also available on radio stations WBAP and KBOC, www.wcmessenger.com, www.decaturisd.us , and Channel 5 TV. BUDGET Faculty/Staff who are in charge of a budget should be cognizant of the expenditures and the balance of the budget account. Those in charge of a budget should keep up to date a ledger noting expenditures as well as the balance of the account. At no time should a budget be overdrawn. The Faculty/Staff member in charge of an overdrawn budget is responsible for balancing any overdraft until the budget is reconciled. CELL PHONES/TELECOMMUNICATION DEVICES Student cell phones may be utilized by students for instructional purposes at the direction of classroom teachers. Cell phones may not be used for any form (making/receiving calls, text messages, emails, etc.) of personal communication during the course of the school day. Inappropriate use of a student cell phone will result in confiscation of the device and the payment of a fine for its return. Teacher’s cell phones are to be turned off during instructional times. Teachers should not be receiving phone calls in the classroom. Please instruct potential callers to call (940)393-7300 to leave a message for you to return a call. Teachers may use their cell phones or other telecommunication devices during their conference and lunch periods only. ACADEMIC DISHONESTY/CHEATING/PLAGIARISM Teachers who have reason to believe a student has engaged in academic dishonesty, cheating, or plagiarism will determine the academic penalty to be assessed and document said actions, as a step, in the student’s Classroom Guidance and Development Plan (Appendix B). In all cases the student will write an explanation of the situation that led to the academic dishonesty which will be mailed home to the parents. The Teacher should retain a copy of the student’s explanation as documentation of the individual student discipline step and their response. Other disciplinary action may be taken by DMS administration should the student be at that step within his/her classroom discipline management steps. 9

CLASS CELEBRATIONS Any celebrations that include food or drink should be approved by campus administration. Foods of minimal nutritional value may not be served before all lunches have been served in the school cafeteria. Close attention should be paid to the nutritional policies set forth by the district and state. Refer to Texas Public School Nutrition Policy (Appendix C), Foods of Minimal Nutritional Value (FMNV) for further information. CLASSROOM CARE/MAINTENNANCE You are responsible for seeing that your classroom is well maintained. When repairs are needed, complete an on-line Maintenance Work Order. Have students pick up paper around their area at the end of each class period and straighten desk rows at the end of each school day. Areas to be vacuumed should be void of books, objects, and large pieces of paper. Food, gum, candy and/or drinks are not allowed at any time in classrooms. The only exception is that students and teachers may have bottled water. Do not use staples to fasten anything to the walls in the classrooms or hallways. The staples are difficult to remove for maintenance and painting. “Ticky-Tack” products are preferred to hang student work. Teachers and staff should hang their degrees and other academic distinctions in their classrooms. However, holes in walls of any sort are to be kept to a minimum. Do not tape or attach anything to ceiling tiles in hallways, classrooms or other areas. It is preferred that ceiling tiles not be painted or marked on. Before anyone marks on or paints a ceiling tile, an $8.00 fee must be paid in the front office for the tile. There a district policy concerning the repainting of classrooms. Like the ceiling tiles, there will be a fee paid before repainting a classroom. The exact fee has not been established before this printing. CLASSROOM DISCIPLINE In its most positive sense, classroom discipline means more than making students behave. It means maintaining an environment in which students feel safe and have an opportunity to learn. In its worst sense, classroom discipline is adversarial and negative. DISD has adopted a Student Code of Conduct. The Student Code of Conduct is included in the District Student Handbook. The District Student Handbook is available on the DMS Website, and a hard copy is available in the DMS library, the Decatur Public library and the DMS administrative offices. Your classroom discipline plan should include a few simple rules, consequences, and rewards/recognition for positive behavior. Have your evaluator approve your plan before the first day of school. After approval, the plan must be posted in your classroom. Teachers must follow the Classroom Guidance and Development Plan (Appendix B) for students discipline issues in order to assure apposite communication and documentation.

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GENERAL GUIDELINES ON THE STUDENT GUIDANCE AND DEVELOPMENT PLAN EXPLAINED ***Note – It is our belief that Decatur Middle School has a talented faculty and staff with busy, enriched classrooms. We know therefore that the best placement for students is in those classrooms. Removing students from enriched instruction is the last resort for a disciplinary measure. STUDENTS SHOULD NOT BE OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM IN THE HALLWAY UNLESS HE OR SHE IS TAKING A MAKE-UP TEST AND NO BETTER TESTING CONDITIONS EXIST. The following steps are to be followed for discipline/guidance with the intention of keeping all students in the enriched classroom. When a student is written up on a step, it is to be documented in the discipline comments section on Skyward and an email is sent to all faculty involved with that student. This will allow all teachers that have that student to monitor the steps. STEP 1: The teacher warns the student to stop the inappropriate behavior. Furthermore, the teacher informs the student that if the inappropriate behavior does not stop, punishment will be administered. Do not degrade the student. The goal is to encourage the correct behavior, not to humiliate. Parent contact is encouraged at this point to start building a familiarity or relationship with parents/guardians in order to lay the ground work for trust and cooperation. STEP 2: The teacher conferences with the student and a “soft” punishment may be assigned. For example, “soft” punishment may include: before or after school detention with the teacher (not to exceed thirty minutes), a reasonable length essay, cleaning desks and boards, etc. Be creative, but not diabolical. STEP 3: The teacher corresponds with parents/guardians by mail explaining current classroom situation, telling the teacher’s conference period, and that the next classroom infraction will result in an administrative referral. A parent phone call is also recommended in conjunction with the correspondence. (Teachers keep a copy of the letter and note phone conversation. The copy of your correspondence will be sent to the administrator’s office if the student reaches the next step. STEP 4: The teacher may assign the student two scheduled detentions with the teacher and forwards the completed Classroom Guidance and Development Plan, a copy of the teacher correspondence in step #3, and a completed pink discipline referral form to the administration office. If deemed necessary by the teacher at that time, the student may be sent to the assistant principal’s office with the above noted documentation. Major infractions that might be cause injury or classroom disruption may require the student being sent to the administrative offices immediately. The administrator will follow the Middle School administrative steps, seen on the following page. Proper documentation and procedures are followed to be fair to all students. Such documentation is imperative for responding to grievances or other reviews of disciplinary and administrative action. DECATUR MIDDLE SCHOOL ADMINISTRATIVE DISCIPLINE STEPS 1st Offense: 2nd Offense: 3rd Offense:

Verbal Warning; Teacher documentation must accompany this referral 2 Lunchtime detentions 3 Lunchtime detentions 11

4th Offense: 5thOffense: 6th Offense: 7th Offense: 8th Offense: 9th Offense:

1day ISS 2 days ISS 3 days ISS 4days ISS 5days ISS DAEP placement

The Faculty and Staff should at all times be exemplary role models in building mutually respectful relationships with other staff, students and parents. CONFERENCE PERIODS Conference periods are a part of your professional day and are scheduled for teacher planning and communicating with parents and staff about students. If you need to leave the building for an emergency, or a student/planning issue, after receiving permission from an administrator, sign out at the front office upon leaving and sign in upon returning. The Decatur ISD standard for conference and planning time is 450 minutes in a 10-day period. Decatur Middle School teachers have an additional 50 minutes of conference in a 10-day period, therefore each teacher will be scheduled into ISS duty one period every 10 days to assist with instruction, or be assigned to another duty. A schedule will be in place at the beginning of the school year. CONFIDENTIALITY Various lists (failing list, ineligibility, ESL, Migrant, Content Mastery, etc.) are generated and are for teacher information only and must not be posted. Any discussion about the contents of any such list should be in private with the individual affected. The Privacy Act and Principle IV of the Code of Ethics and Standard Practices for Texas Educators require that staff do not reveal information regarding students of a confidential nature unless disclosure serves a lawful professional purpose or is required by law. Be very careful when discussing information regarding student performance, behavior, and personal information. Any discussion should have a direct link to helping the student and should be limited to school personnel and/or parents/guardians. Unless you have received written permission from the student’s parent do not discuss a student with anyone who is not a DISD staff member. Discussing personal information about students in the office areas, hallways, teachers’ lounge or cafeteria is inappropriate and a violation of the Privacy Act and Principle IV of the Code of Ethics and Standard Practices for Texas Educators. This includes the student’s behavior and discipline. In general, all student information should be shared only on a “need to know basis”. CAMPUS IMPROVEMENT PLAN The Campus Improvement Plan is an essential document for teacher planning and should be kept in your Teacher Handbook for easy referral. Teachers are responsible for having a working knowledge of the information in this document.

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DISTRIC POLICY DOCUMENTS Decatur Independent School District Policy documents are maintained on line. To access them go to Welcome to Decatur ISD and follow the link POLICY On line. DRESS CODE The dress code is established to instill self-discipline, maintain a positive learning environment, lessen negative peer pressure, develop respect of authority, and protect the Decatur Middle School’s students, faculty, and staff. In dressing for school, students and parents are asked to use good judgment. Education research indicates that student dress often sets the pattern for classroom behavior, and the District does expect that students will look reasonably neat, their hair should be combed, and they may not wear garments so revealing or in such a state of disrepair as to be a distraction or safety hazard. Please read the general guidelines found on the following page and make every effort to be consistent in dealing with all students in regard to dress code issues. General Guidelines: Decatur Middle School 2008-2009 Dress Code 1)

Shirts, blouses, sweaters, sweatshirts, and jackets must be no longer than the bottom of the back hip pocket or they must be tucked in.

2)

Halter-tops, spaghetti straps, tube tops, and slumber shirts are not permitted.

3)

Bare midriff shirts, tank tops, see through tops, sleeveless t-shirts, or muscle shirts may be worn with a short-sleeved shirt underneath that is tucked in.

4)

No risqué or “off color” clothing with abusive, suggestive, offensive, lewd, or violent themes may be worn. This includes shirts or garments that display skulls or other images that are construed by administration to be inappropriate for an academic setting.

5)

Clothing advertising tobacco, alcohol, illegal inappropriate by administration is prohibited.

6)

Shorts, skirts, and dresses must be at least finger tip length.

7)

No biker or jogging shorts are to be worn. Any clothing designed as underwear may not be worn as outerwear. No sleepwear shall be worn as outerwear.

8)

Overall buttons will be securely fastened and straps will be worn on the shoulders.

9)

“Hip-hugger” shorts, pants, or skirts are prohibited and there should be no skin visible. There should be no sagging pants or garments.

10)

Pants, shorts, or skirts should not display printing, writing or any form of communication across the seat of the garment or another location deemed inappropriate by administration.

substances,

11) All clothing must not be cut, torn, or have holes above the knee.

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or

things

deemed

12)

Headgear: Hats, caps, hair curlers, hairnets, shower caps, bandanas, etc. and not permitted during the school day. At no time during the school day is headgear to be visibly carried or worn on campus.

13) Shoes will be worn at all times, properly fastened. 14) Glasses with tinted lens (or sunglasses) will be worn only if they are prescription or by the orders of a physician. 15) Coats/jackets worn in the classroom will be at the teacher’s discretion. 16) Hair should be kept neat and well groomed. There should be no off coloring of hair. 17) Students are not to wear large chains, spikes, or any other ornamental jewelry that could be construed by staff or administration as possibly harmful to the students or others. 18)

Students are not to have chains, ropes or other attachments to their garments including those attached to oversized pocket books.

19) Body piercing is limited to the ear(s). 20) Tattoos must be covered. ****These and all other attire regulations are left to the discretion of campus administrators.

DUTIES Faculty and staff are responsible for their assigned duties. If a faculty or staff member is absent or cannot complete an assigned duty, it is his/her responsibility to have someone cover that duty. If a faculty or staff member has a substitute for a day of absence, that substitute should be informed of the duty via a note left on the AESOP program or in writing with clear instructions within the substitute folder. Morning Duties Cafeteria inside the MPB Two faculty members will be on duty in the Multi-Purpose Facility (MPF) from 7:30 to 7:55 a.m. according to the schedule. One should observe the unloading of students from transportation vehicles and welcoming them into the building. The other should be on duty in the cafeteria area observing the students. Middle School students are to remain on the upper portion of the cafeteria area. Circulate around the area to ensure that students are behaving appropriately. Students are to be seated unless they are purchasing food, drink, or putting up their trash. When students have finished their meals have them push their chairs under the table and dispose of tray, silverware, and trash properly. Do not permit students to take food or drink, unless it is bottled water, from the cafeteria. Students may sit in the cafeteria and visit during breakfast time provided they are not disruptive. Gym Be on duty in the gym from 7:30 to 7:55 a.m. Circulate around the gym. Students are to remain gym until you dismiss them to go to class at 7:50 a.m. Students may enter the main building only if they have a pass signed by a teacher for instructional purposes.

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Conference Daily Schedule Professional staffs get 450 minutes of conference every two weeks. In an effort to assure all students academic needs are met our staff serves students both in D-Hall and ISS coverage once every two weeks (Appendix E).

Morning Duties

August September

25-29 2-5 8-12 15-19 22-26 Sept/October 29-3 6-10 14-17 20-24 27-31 November 3-7 10-14 17-21 December 1-5 8-12 15-19 January 5-9 12-16 20-23 26-30 February 2-6 10-13 16-20 23-27 March 2-6 9-13 23-27 30-Apr 3 April 6-10 13-17 20-24 27-May 1 May 4-8 11-15 18-22 26-29 June 1-3

Cafeteria 7:30-7:55

Gym 7:30-7:55

Hensley Brown Diaczenko Egle Hacker Aaron Lemieux Mathis McDonald McNiel Sneed Mattison Blessing Crawford Edwards Furrh Lemons Hinson Heiens Mattison McMahan Egle Tally Aaron Brown Diaczenko Reed Hacker Hensley Alexander Dennard Grimes Jean Archer Galante Hornsby McComis

Heiens Crawford Edwards Furrh Blessing Hinson Lemons Willis McMahan Reed Tally Aaron Brown Diaczenko Egle Sneed Mathis Lemieux Hensley McDonald McNiel Hacker Willis Blessing Crawford Edwards Furrh Heiens Hinson Archer Galante Hornsby McComis Alexander Dennard Grimes Jean

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• •

Mrs. Woodruff opens the library at 7:30 am daily for kids to preview and read books

Coach Estel & Mrs. Garn cover both 7th & 8th grade lunch duties daily

Passing Period Duties All teachers are expected to be on duty outside of their classroom door between passing periods. Afternoon Duties Front Sidewalk Duty Be on duty from 3:25 to 3:40 p.m. Circulate among students on the front sidewalk to insure they are behaving properly and staying out of the way of traffic. East Hall Be on duty from 3:25 to 3:40 p.m. Assist students in safely exiting the building so they may be assured of meeting their prospective means of transportation from DMS. Bus Loop

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Front Sidewalk 3:25-3:40

East Hall 3:25-3:40

November December January

February

March

April

May

June

Lemieux Tally Reed McDonald Woodruff Hensley Hacker Edwards Crawford Aaron Willis Sneed McMahan Lemons Hinson Heiens Diaczenko Furrh Brown Woodruff Tally Reed McDonald Lemieux Hensley Hacker Aaron Crawford Edwards McComis Grimes Galante Archer Jean Hornsby Dennard Alexander

3:25-3:40 Afternoon Bus Loop Duty ─ The Paque’s

Sept/October

25-29 2-5 8-12 15-19 22-26 29-3 6-10 14-17 20-24 27-31 3-7 10-14 17-21 1-5 8-12 15-19 5-9 12-16 20-23 26-30 2-6 10-13 16-20 23-27 2-6 9-13 23-27 30-Apr 3 6-10 13-17 20-24 27-May 1 4-8 11-15 18-22 26-29 1-3

The Paque’s

August September

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Hinson Sneed McMahan Lemons Willis Heiens Furrh Diaczenko Brown Woodruff Lemieux Reed McDonald Tally Hensley Hacker Edwards Crawford Aaron Willis Sneed Heiens Furrh Hinson McMahan Lemons Woodruff Brown Diaczenko Jean Hornsby Dennard Alexander McComis Grimes Galante Archer

Eduphoria SchoolObjects is a web-based software package that provides tools for Teachers and Administrators to manage Staff Development and PDAS. The PDAS module was purchased for campus administrators to use for Teacher and Staff evaluations. The Workshop module was purchased for the district to use to manage PDIP and provide a tool for staff to track their own staff development. Currently, the Workshop module is active and ready for use by staff. Other parts of Eduphoria will be introduced after all campuses are able to access the program. Remember, like the other new programs and systems implemented this school year, we ask for your patience in implementing Eduphoria SchoolObjects. Please use Eduphoria to register for all PDIP classes. Instructions for using Eduphoria: 1. Go to DISD website. Log into the site. 2. Under Staff Resources drop down menu, click on Employee Intranet. 3. Login to the Employee Intranet using your standard district login credentials (i.e. user.name and password) 4. Click on Eduphoria! SchoolObjects 5. Once you have reached the Eduphoria SchoolObjects Login page you may bookmark it. 6. Enter your user name. (example: firstname.lastname) The District\ prefix is not required. Your username and password is your standard Decatur ISD username and password used to access e-mail and other district resources. 7. Enter your password. (Use the same password you use to access your e-mail when outside the district.) 8. Choose one of the three statements. (If you have accessed Eduphoria prior to receiving this e-mail you will not be asked to do this step.) 9. Click on Workshop. 10. Click on Up & Coming Courses. (Courses are listed by date of presentation by month) 11. Click on a class and you will see class information. 12. To register for the class from this screen. Click on the green + to register for class. (You will receive an e-mail that you are registered. If you need to e-mail the instructor, you can click on their name at the bottom of the information page.) 13. If you need to unregister for the class, click on the red – . (You will receive an e-mail that you are unregistered for the class. You must unregistered from a class no later that 4:00 pm the afternoon before the class. If the class is offered on Monday, you must unregister by 4:00 pm on Friday afternoon) 14. To go back to view other courses, click on the blue back arrow on the right side of page. Here is the link to access Eduphoria SchoolObjects: If you have difficulties accessing the site please feel free to contact the Technology Department for assistance

ETHICS

Texas educators shall comply with standard practices and ethical conduct toward students, professional colleagues, school officials, parents, and members of the community and shall safeguard academic freedom. All educators should refer to and be familiar with the Revised Code of Ethics and Standard Practices for Texas Educators in the Appendix of this handbook. They are available also on the internet at the following address: http://www.tcta.org/capital/sbec/codeapproved.htm

Emergency Procedures Revised 08-21-08 Each teacher will have a red folder in a readily accessible place which will be labeled “Emergency Procedures.” This folder is to be taken with the class in case of evacuation. Items to be placed in folder: 1. Complete set of class roll sheets (be sure to keep updated) 2. Crisis Flipchart 3. CISD One Page Handout 4. Evacuation Plan for fire or tornado 5. Red and Green Paper Squares (to be placed on window or underneath classroom door in case of the lockdown announcement. Green = Room locked and all occupants safe Red = Problem/need help and no square indicates Problem/need help. If police do not see green square, they will consider emergency exists inside classroom.) 6. Eagle Watch handout (bullying definitions and directions for teachers.) Emergency Signals and Responses Lockdown Codes: 1, “Teachers, this is an inside practice lockdown.” (Indicates there is a threat INSIDE the building.)  Immediately lock classroom door and move students to safe corner AWAY from door and windows.  Stay in safe area in room until evacuated by police or until the announcement, “Teachers, the practice inside lockdown is complete.” (Indicates everything is resolved and safe.)  If evacuation occurs, be sure to take emergency folder with class. 2. “Teachers, this is an outside practice lockdown.” (Indicates there is a threat OUTSIDE the building.) • Immediately lock classroom door and move students to safe corner AWAY from door and windows. • Stay in safe area in room until the announcement, “Teachers, the practice outside lockdown is complete.” (Indicates everything is resolved and safe.) 3. If lockdown is not practice, the following statements will be made: “Teachers, this is an inside lockdown. This is not a practice.” or “Teachers, this is an outside lockdown. This is not a practice.” Procedures are the same as listed above.

In case of fire:  Three bells is evacuation. When three bells are rung in succession, teacher is to lead students out of building to pre-determined exit location. Be sure to be familiar with your particular exit plan. (posted on wall in classroom and copy in Red folder)  Be sure to take Red Folder when you evacuate room and check roll when class is outside building.  One bell signals HALT and stand at attention.  Two bells in succession signal return to classroom. In case of tornado announcement will be made on the PA system.  Tornado Watch: This means that there is a chance of dangerous winds and there may be a tornado.  Tornado Warning: This means a tornado has been sighted.  Go quickly to hallway designated by tornado drill chart in classroom (and in Red folder) unless different instructions are given over the PA. Curl up on the floor and cover head.

FACULTY MEETINGS All staff members are to be in attendance at all faculty meetings. You are responsible for registering your attendance at these meetings by signing in. If you have a conflict, see the principal or assistant principal prior to the meeting. You are responsible for all information shared at a faculty meeting whether you are in attendance or not. Scheduled meeting times will be immediately following or prior to the beginning of the regular school day. The faculty and staff will be notified of meetings through E-mail and/or announcements. FIELD & CO-CURRICULAR TRIPS Field trips and/or co-curricular trips should be educational experiences planned by the teacher to correlate with an instructional objective. Both such trips must be approved by the administration. A signed parent permission form (Appendix D), for each trip must be on file before any student will be allowed to participate. A roster of students attending the activity must be provided the campus attendance clerk no fewer than two days prior to the date of said function. In this way proper absence coding can be completed and the cafeteria manager can be apprised to plan fewer meals. The coordinator of the trip will be responsible for sending an email list of kids to faculty at least one week in advance. 504 STUDENTS Students with Learning Disabilities may qualify for special services through the “Individuals with Disabilities Education Act “ (IDEA) – special education, resource, content mastery, etc. However, even if a student does not qualify under IDEA, the school district may be required to provide services to that student if the student has conditions which constitute

a “physical or mental impairment substantially limiting one or more major life activities” under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Under Section 504, it is the school’s duty to evaluate and accommodate the disability in the school’s environment. As a Section 504 handicapped student, he/she is entitled to an “Individual Accommodation Plan”, which will determine what reasonable accommodations/ modifications must be applied to allow the child to function in the school environment in all areas, including electives. Examples: ADD, ADHD, Asthma, Dyslexia Any student not maintaining mastery (70%) and not receiving services under IDEA, ESL, Migrant, etc. is a potential 504 student and could be eligible for accommodations. If a student is not maintaining mastery and is not on our 504 list, see the school counselor immediately. FUNDRAISERS All fundraisers must be entered on-line (see link under Business Office) and entered on the Master Calendar kept in the principal’s office. Limit the number of fundraising activities to two major fundraisers. All money raised by fundraisers must be deposited in the organization’s campus activity account at least weekly. Do not hold checks and cash until the end of the fundraiser. The Tally Sheet must be completed by the sponsor as money is collected. The sponsor and the student write their initials in the appropriate column indicating the money has been received by the sponsor. This sheet must be given to the principal two weeks after the fundraiser is over. Activity fund money may not be spent on a cash basis and funds will be dispersed by check with proper receipts. Deposits and invoices must be turned into the office on Thursday by 3:35 p.m. In general, bank deposits are made and checks are written from activity accounts on Friday. Activity funds are audited according to TEA regulations by the District’s outside auditors. GRADE DOCUMENTATION SYSTEMS Teachers will record grades on the district’s adopted computer grade program, SKYWARD. Training for SKYWARD will be provided by the building technology coordinator. Grades should be posted by Tuesday of each week. Remember: • • •

Note when grade is from modified material in comments Students and/or parents are not to have access to grade documents that show other students’ grades. Hard copy grade reports should be printed each six weeks and kept on file with the teacher. GRADING POLICY Grading System-Skyward

All Middle School grades will be numerical grades.

A – Excellent B – Good C – Fair D – Passing F – Failing

100 – 90 89 – 80 79 – 75 74 – 70 below 70

No grade lower than 50 is to be recorded on a report card or permanent record. If a student’s earned grade is below 50, the teacher will contact the parent before issuing the report card to inform the parent of the earned grade. Student grades cannot be lowered because of behavior, absences, or tardiness. It is recommended that students receive a separate comment grade (conduct grade) for behaviors each six weeks using the comment codes set by the campus secretary in Skyward. Six-Week Grade In general, the grade policy for Decatur Middle School in determining six weeks grades will be 50% daily work and 50% test grades. In some curriculum areas, a modified plan will be used due to curriculum requirements and law. Grades should be calculated as follows: Every week at least one daily grade – minimum total of six per six weeks Every other week at least one test grade – minimum of three per six weeks Semester Grade (Three Six-Weeks) The average of the three six-weeks grades counts for three-fourths (3/4) of the semester grade with the semester exam counting for one-fourth (1/4). All core area classes (English, History, Math, Science, and Reading) must give a semester exam. If a semester test is not given in an elective class, the average of the three six-week grades will be used to determine the semester grade. Yearly Grades Determine the second semester grade (same method as first semester grade). The average of the two (2) semester grades is the yearly grade.

Physical Education PE grades will be based on two criteria: Dressing-Out and Participation Each student has the opportunity to earn 20 points each day amounting to a possible 100 points each week based on the following grading criteria.

1. 2.

Dress-Out – suit out in tennis shoes, shorts, and tops. Students will earn 10 pts daily for dressing out or loose the same for failure to do so. Participation – Includes attitude, cooperation, and of course participation in daily physical activities. Students have the opportunity to earn or loose 10 points each day. Grades for Co-Curricular Activities

Co-curricular activities are an extension of the classroom and students may be graded upon their participation and performance in the co-curricular activity. However, a student may be required to attend the activity only if the district provides transportation to and from the activity. If the district does not provide transportation and the student does not attend, the student cannot be issued a grade for the activity and the student’s grade cannot be lowered. LATE ACADEMIC WORK - ZTP (Zero Tolerance for not turning in work) Decatur Middle School has a zero tolerance policy. If a student fails to turn in a daily assignment, the teacher will assign the student an ATO (Academic Tutorial Opportunity). The student will follow the steps outlined in the ATO guidelines. With students, teachers, and parents working together to eliminate zeros, DMS will achieve greater academic success. ATO guidelines are in the Appendices. LESSON PLANS Lesson plans are to be computer generated. A template may be found on the DISD website. Copies of lesson plans are to be turned in to your evaluator by 8:00 a.m. on Mondays. Also, a copy should be given to the CMC lab (Belinda Sherman). Any test to be administered in that week must be attached to the Lesson Plan given to Content Mastery. Lesson plans should also be in an accessible place in your classroom for a substitute, when necessary. 7th grade math teachers should also give a copy of their lesson plan to the Math lab teacher (Shauna Paque/Julie McDonald). MENTOR PROGRAM FOR NEW TEACHERS To help first year teachers begin their teaching career in a positive manner and to support teachers new to this district and/or campus, the administration will provide technical, logistical, and emotional support through the Mentor Program. This program will be coordinated by the principal. Department Chairpersons will assist the principal by providing day-to-day support and conferencing with the new teacher and principal periodically through the year. Support can include but is not limited to practice appraisals, peer coaching, off-campus workshops, demonstration lessons, observations of other teachers’ classes, and self-appraisals.

MODIFICATIONS Teachers are required to modify instructional materials and to use teaching strategies generally recommended for students who qualify for 504 (See 504 Students), ESL, Migrant, and Special Education. We do not modify grades as that does not help the student to learn the skills and gain the knowledge. Professional staff may find it necessary to conference with the ESL, Migrant, and Special Education teachers for ideas and suggestions. Your grade book should reflect grades taken from modified material. ***Faculty members should keep copies of tests and examples of graded assignments on file for each student that is serviced through Special Education and 504 for future reference. These should be placed in files and placed in a safe and confidential place. PARENT CONFERENCES Teachers need the help of parents to do the best possible job of educating every child and can help parents play an active role in this process. Conferences provide an opportunity for teachers to explain this process and develop a collaborative relationship. The following are suggestions for a successful meeting. • • •

• •

Establish Rapport with Parents – Develop a relationship with parents by asking them about their work or about an interest you may know they have. Accept Parents as Advocates – Provide parents with opportunities to speak about their children. Emphasize the Positive – When parents perceive a teacher cares about their child they are more likely to support the teacher’s efforts. Recount a brief story about the student or simply say how much you like their child before sharing positive or negative information about their performance or behavior. Learn from the Parents – No one knows the student better than their parent! Affirm and Recap – Express your gratitude for the parent’s time and attention and your desire to continue working together for the student’s success. Recap by summarizing what has been discussed as well as what has been decided (future action). Remember that the last thing you say will be the most remembered – leave on a positive comment.

When a parent contacts you and appears to be angry, the following may help to diffuse the anger so you can establish a climate of cooperation. Ask directly, “What may I do for you?” LISTEN EMPATHIZE CLARIFY – restate what the parent has said. “Now let me see if I understand what you are saying.” PROBLEM SOLVE - Ask for their ideas.

CLOSE – Affirm and Recap (see above) PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATON (PTO) The Middle School PTO provides volunteers, money, and support to all staff and students. Membership in this organization is $3.00 for the school year and all staff are encouraged to join. The PTO officers’ names and addresses will be available upon the beginning of the academic year. PARKING Faculty and Staff Parking will be in the parking lot on the east side of the building or MPB lot. The front spaces will remain empty for handicapped access, principal, assistant principal, nurse, teacher of the year, and visitors to DMS. Unless you have specific approval from the principal you must use the other parking areas designated. PEST CONTROL All pest control will be performed through the Maintenance Department. Faculty and staff are not to bring such chemicals on campus. It is advised that cleaning solutions not be brought on campus as well. PLANNERS Students are required to have a planner with them at all times except during lunch. Students may purchase planners from the administration office for a cost of $4.00. The planner serves as a pass when a student leaves the classroom when the teacher properly initials it. The planner also serves as a communication tool between teacher and parents. Teachers should write notes in the planner informing parents of pertinent information concerning their student’s progress and/or behavior. (Planners are quite often a topic of conversation at parent/teacher/administrator meetings. We want to be certain that faculty members are utilizing the planners in the intended manner.). Teachers are to see that students write the day’s assignment, homework, and/or any other information that is supportive of student success. Teachers are to initial each student’s planner indicating the student has written the correct information at their discretion. Planners are to be signed on Thursdays by parents to insure that they are cognizant of the planner and the information. Students who have their planners signed are given five minutes additional lunchtime on Friday. It is the responsibility of the 3rd period teachers for 7th grade students and the 4th period teachers for 8th grade students to check for the parent signatures. PROGRESS REPORT Progress Reports are one of the ways to communicate with parents about their student’s academic progress. If a student has an average of 75 or below, a Progress Report must be

sent to the parent at the end of each three-week period of each six-week grading period. Forms are available in the office. Keep a copy for your files .Progress Report Period Ending Dates 9/16/08 10/28/08 12/16/08 02/03/09 03/31/09 05/12/09

Progress Reports Will be Mailed by 9/22/08 11/03/08 12/19/08 02/10/09 04/06/08 05/18/09

PURCHASING PROCEDURES An order for any purchase may not be made either in writing or by telephone unless Campus Procedures 1-3 and Central Office Procedures 1-3 set forth below have been completed. If an invoice is received without a Purchase Order number it will be denied and the employee will be held responsible for the amount of the invoice. Note: Sometime in the near future Purchase Orders will be completed on-line requiring modification of the current procedures.

Campus Procedures 1. 2. 3.

Teacher initiates Purchase Order (PO). Secretary checks for accuracy. Principal signs if approved and forwards to the Director of Finance. The principal will not consider any PO until codes have been verified and account balances checked by the secretary.

Central Office Procedures 1.

Accounts Payable: Forwards to Gary Micinski, Asst Superintendent for Finance, for approval (Sonia Lee or Jane Skaggs) If approved, returned to Jane or Sonia for number assignment. PO will be entered in system, balance checked, po assigned a number and po will be returned to campus secretary.

2.

Copy distribution of approved PO’s: White copy: Sent to teacher. Teacher mails to vendor. Green copy: Sent to teacher after approval. Pink copy: Kept in campus office until goldenrod copy is sent, and then teacher receives pink copy from secretary with proof of payment.

Yellow copy:

Golden copy:

Kept at Central Office until invoice is received. Upon receiving invoice, this copy will be sent along with a copy of the invoice to the teacher to check, sign, and return to Central Office for payment. Central Office copy

Specific Campus Procedures: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Teacher obtains PO from the office. PO’s may be typed or handwritten by teacher. Departmental Codes and dollar amount of PO are to be put in the designated area, bottom left on PO. If you are unsure of preparation procedures please check with your department chairperson. Give PO to the Principal for approval and signature. After approval from Central Office, you will receive the white copy to mail to the vendor. The green copy is to be filed by the teacher. When your order is received: a. Check items against the green copy in your file. b. As soon as the yellow copy and invoice copies are put in your mailbox, check off all received items, sign, date and enter amount. Also enter amount to be paid in the disbursement column. Return to secretary. If you receive only partial shipment from the vendor and the yellow invoice is put in your mailbox, hold for 20 days. If balance of shipment does not come within designated time, call vendor to check status or cancel rest of order. c. Send all correspondence concerning your PO’s status to Jane Skaggs or Sonia Lee at the Business Office. d. Each individual teacher will be held responsible for keeping a running balance and not exceeding his/her budget amount. e. Allow for shipping and percentage increases.

REPORT CARDS/SIX WEEK GRADES Teacher’s student grades should be completely entered in the SKYWARD grading program once a week and posted before teachers leave the building on the last day of a six week grading period. The campus secretary will send an email to notify you as of to the deadlines for posting. ***Grades should be completed and exported to the school secretary by 9:00 a.m. on the following dates: 1st six weeks – Monday, October 6, 2008

2nd six weeks – Monday, November 17, 2008 3rd six weeks – Tuesday, January 20, 2009 4th six weeks – Monday, March 02, 2009 5th six weeks – Monday, April 20, 2009 6th six weeks – Monday, June 8, 2009 REPORT CARD DATES Report Cards Issued 10/10/2008 11/21/2008 01/23/2009 03/06/2009 05/01/2009 Mailed week of June 8-12, 2009

Report cards will be handed out in 2nd period to be sent home. 2nd period teacher will give the kids a week to return the signed report card & keep a list of kids that do not bring their report cards back signed. The list of kids not turning in report cards will be turned into the office for consequences.

RE-TEACHING Each school district must demonstrate that, in addition to providing instruction in the TEKS, re-teaching of essential knowledge is a part of the remediation process for all students. Remediation shall include, but is not limited to, re-teaching. Your grade documentation should note those grades taken after re-teaching. A note in your lesson plans may be the necessary documentation for when and how re-teaching occurs. Re-teaching: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Shall be available for all students not mastering a TEKS objective. This includes any student failing a test, not just students who might fail for the six weeks. Must occur in a timely manner (usually less than 5 days). Is not just retesting. Re-teaching of the non-mastered knowledge must take place prior to retesting. Re-teaching and retesting may be administered during, but is not limited to tutorials. Should be a natural component of teaching and does not require a great deal of documentation. The primary function of six-week test, semester test, and end of the year testing is to confirm the findings of daily, weekly, and/or unit assessments. Re-teaching should occur prior to the six-week test, etc.

SCHOOL BOARD MEETINGS School board meetings are generally held on the third Thursday of each month beginning at 7:00 p.m. in the Board Room at Central Office and are open to the public. Staff will be advised of the specific meeting dates in DMS communications. SEMESTER EXAM EXEMPTIONS Students will be given the opportunity to choose to be exempt in two (2) of their core courses (English, History, Math, Science, Reading) per semester based on their attendance and grade in that particular class. They may not exempt each core class but once each school year. Students may choose to be exempt in their non-core courses both semesters if they meet the criteria. A Semester Exam Exemption form will be distributed to all students the 5th week of each six-week grading period. The students will then choose which two (2) core courses they would like to exempt and write those on the form. The form must be signed by the student’s parent and returned to the teacher(s) of the class(es). A master attendance report will be made by the office and placed in the work areas. Teachers will be responsible for determining each student’s eligibility in their class based on the teacher’s grade documentation and the attendance report. Teachers will sign the exemption if the student is eligible. Students are responsible for submitting the completed and signed Exemption form to the Office by Monday of the last week of each six-week period. The only exception to the submission deadline is when a student is absent on that Monday (excused absence only) in which case the form may be turned in upon the student’s return to school. Absences 0 1 2

Grade (Average of the three six-week grades) 85 and above 89 and above 95 and above SITE ─ BASED DECSION MAKING COMMITTEE

The Decatur Middle School Site-Based Decision Making Committee provides an opportunity for campus administration, staff, business and community to participate together to improve the instructional program, enhance student achievement, and provide opportunities for restructuring. The committee shall include: • •

Principal or designee – permanent member One professional educator to be elected by their departments from each of the following areas to serve two-year staggered terms: English, History, Math,

• • • •

Science, Fine Arts, Special Education/ESL/Learning Lab, Vocational/Technology PE/Athletics (one person may represent two departments) One person from Central Office, asked to serve by the Committee, for a one-year term One campus non-teaching staff member to be elected by the entire staff One person each from Business and Community, asked to serve by the Committee, for a one-year term A minimum of one parent but no more than two parents of DISD students, asked to serve by the Committee, for a one-year term.

A chairperson and recorder will be elected at the last meeting of the school year and will serve for one year. Meeting minutes will be posted on campus within five (5) days of the meeting. Agendas will be developed by the Principal or designee with the help of the Committee Chairperson. The Site-Based Decision Making Committee meetings will be announced through school updates and other informative sources. SUGGESTIONS/INFORMATION CONCERNING DISCIPLINE One of the most important lessons education should teach is discipline. While it does not appear as a subject, discipline underlies the whole educational structure and is the training that develops self-control, character, orderliness, and efficiency. It is the key to good conduct and proper consideration for other people. If students understand the purpose of discipline in schools, they may form a correct attitude toward it and not only do their part in making their school an effective place to learn but also develop the habit of self-discipline. Parents must accept responsibility for helping their children develop self-control. The student’s responsibilities for achieving a positive learning environment at school and/or school-related activities shall include the following: • • • • • • • •

Attend all classes daily and on time. Prepare for each class with appropriate materials and completed assignments. Dress according to the dress code adopted by Board Policy. Know that the use and possession of illicit drugs and alcohol is unlawful and harmful. Show respect toward others. Conduct oneself in a responsible manner. Obey all school rules in the Code of Student Conduct and the Discipline Management Plan. Cooperate with staff in investigation of disciplinary matters and volunteering known information relating to a serious offense.

The district has jurisdiction over its students during the regular school day and while going to and from school on district transportation. The district’s jurisdiction includes any activity during the school day on school grounds, attendance at any school-related activity, regardless of time or location, and any school-related misconduct, regardless of time or location. Parents/Guardians wishing to view the Decatur Independent School District Discipline Management Plan and the Student Code of Conduct may do so at the Decatur Middle School Office between the hours of 7:45 to 4:15 p.m., Monday through Friday. Parents/Guardians must acknowledge receipt of the Discipline Management Plan and the consequences to students who violate District Disciplinary Policy. The Discipline Management Plan will be sent home in the student packet at the beginning of the academic year. An acknowledgement of receipt must be signed and returned to the school. DISCIPLINE MANAGEMENT PLAN General Guidelines for Assessing Discipline Penalties: When imposing discipline, district personnel shall adhere to the following general guidelines: 1. 2.

Discipline shall be administered when necessary to protect students, school employees, or property and maintain essential order and discipline. Students shall be treated fairly and equitably. Discipline shall be based on careful assessment of the circumstances of each case. Factors to consider shall include: a. Seriousness of the offense b. The student’s age c. Frequency of misconduct d. Student’s attitude e. Potential effect of the misconduct on the school environment. f. Student’s step in CLASSROOM GUIDANCE AND DEVELOPMENT PLAN (Appendix-B)

Discipline Management Techniques: Discipline management techniques are always available when assessing penalties for violations of the Code of Conduct, regardless of the offense. If a student chooses to break the rules for good behavior in or anywhere on this campus, school property, or school function, he or she will be subject to, but not limited to: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

Counseling by teachers, special services, or administrative personnel Parent-Teacher Conferences Cooling-off or time out Behavior contracts Assigned school duties other than class task Verbal correction

7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15.

Withdrawal of privileges, including participation in extra-curricular and honorary positions Sending student to the office or other assigned areas Detention Rewards, incentives, demerits Referral to outside agency or authority Temporary confiscation of times that disrupt the educational process Assignment to in-school suspension for no more than three days at a time Saturday school detention AEP (Alternative Educational Placement)

IN GENERAL, WHEN IMPOSING DISCIPLINE THE FOLLOWING GUIDELINES WILL BE USED AND MAY BE USED IN CONJUCTION WITH ANY OF THE ABOVE LISTED TECHNIQUES. In-School Suspension ISS allows the student to remain in school during disciplinary action and continue their work. A student is assigned ISS for violations of the Student Code of Conduct. Any student assigned to ISS will not be excused from ISS for school related trips and may not attend or participate in a school-sponsored event. Assignments must be completed before leaving ISS. If a student does not follow ISS rules, then a parent/guardian will be notified to pick up the student from school and disciplinary action will be taken. Major: any offense which violates school board policies or is disruptive to the educational process – fighting, profanity, obscene gestures, tobacco possession/use, stealing, skipping detention, dialing 911, fireworks, smoke/stink bombs, laser pens or pointers, pagers, vandalism, cutting class, leaving campus without permission, defiance of authority (this means ANY adult in the school, including teachers, administrators, secretaries, custodians, aides, and cafeteria workers), cheating, graffiti. Major offenses will result in discipline beginning at the ISS level and/or may result in AEP placement. PROHIBITED ITEMS: LASER POINTERS/PENS, PAGERS, CELL PHONES, CD OR AUDIO PLAYERS, OR OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES THAT INTERFERE WITH THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS. Graffiti: Repeated offenses (involving vandalism and gang activity) will be considered for AEP placement. Fighting: Any student who participates in a fight may be assigned up to ten (10) DAYS of ISS and actions may result in notification of school SRO. State law requires certain disciplinary actions for certain offenses Mandatory AEP Placement:

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.

Conduct punishable as a felony Committing an assault Making a terroristic threat Selling, giving, delivering, possessing, using, or being under the influence of marijuana, a controlled substance, or a dangerous drug Possessing, selling, giving, delivering, using, or being under the influence of an alcohol beverage Inhaling Offenses: glue, paint, chemicals Public lewdness Indecent exposure Retaliation against school employee Affiliation with or promoting of a secret society or gang Hazing

Note: Nos. 1 and 9 apply to off-campus conduct also. Repetitive, disruptive behavior can result in placement in DAEP. Expulsion: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10.

Possession of a firearm (Federal law requires that any student in possession of a firearm be expelled for one calendar year.) Possession of an illegal knife Possession of a prohibited weapon Aggravated or sexual assault Arson Murder, capital murder, attempt to commit murder Indecency with a child Aggravated kidnapping Retaliation against a school employee Behavior related to an alcohol or drug offense that could be punishable as a felony.

Each action will be reviewed, processed individually, and each student given their due process rights. Disciplinary options will be considered and determined by campus administration. In the event a student commits a major or severe offense, the administration may call the Decatur Police to determine if a citation will be issued. In case of in-school suspension, parents will be notified by telephone or letter. In case of an AEP placement or expulsion, a hearing will be held to make the final determination of discipline to be administered. Avenues of appeals may be followed as listed in DISD policy. Suspension: 1.

The Principal or other appropriate administrator may suspend a student who engages in conduct for which a student may be placed in DAEP or other circumstances with the discretion of the administrator.

2. 3.

Repetitive ongoing misbehavior as shown by documentation of severe and non-severe offenses. A suspension may not exceed three school days.

Violations of the dress code shall result in disciplinary action as noted on the Administrator’s Discipline Plan. First time minor violations of the dress code may result in a one time warning. Otherwise, the student will be sent to the restroom to change (if clothes are available). If clothes are not available, the student may be sent home to change. The student’s parent or family will be responsible for transportation. SUBSTITUTES When you are ill or unable to come to school, you are to obtain a substitute by calling or going on-line (aesoponline.com) to the AESOP system. Be certain your substitute folder is ready for your substitute and contains the required information. The automated phone number is 800-942-3767. Please notify the AESOP system as soon as you know that you are to be away from school for any reason. You may enter your absence(s) for future dates that you know you will not be in your classroom. Please do so as early as possible. If you code you absence reason as “Other”, be certain that you communicate the reason with Mrs. Barbara Meador and fill out any paperwork that she may have to assist her in reporting. Roll sheets will be printed in the office in your absence for the substitute. The sub will take roll each period – sign and date the sheet and send it to the office each period. It will serve as official attendance records in your absence. Teachers are not to contact anyone to substitute for them unless you are working with an administrator to assign a substitute on your behalf Substitute Folder Information ***Please be certain that the following information is prepared for your substitute teacher, placed in the yellow folder furnished for you (check with front office), and that the folder is placed on your desk that it may be found easily. UPDATED CLASS ROLLS – (Roll checked from these) SEATING CHART (if you have one) SCHEDULES: 1. Each class period (including conference period) 2. Lunch schedule 3. Duty schedule INSTRUCTIONS FOR: 1. Taking roll – on hard copies provided by office 2. Fire Drills or other emergencies

3. Out of classroom procedures (rest room…etc.) 4. Daily procedures (pledges, announcements, Eagle Period…etc.) 5. Air conditioning/heating, lights, locking door…etc. LESSON PLANS: Should have instructions simple and detailed enough that anyone coming into the building will understand. ALSO INCLUDE INFORMATION CONCERNING: 1. Dependable students who could help. 2. Discipline procedures (report to office; Leave Substitute Summary Report in folder to be completed) Make copies for substitutes in the future. 3. Any student, who will be reporting to another room or teacher, but is on your roll sheet, (Read right, dyslexia, or other special programs.) 4. Instructions for what should be done with finished assignments or tests. 5. Additional work that may be done should assignment(s) be completed early. 6. Other special instructions or information that could be helpful. (Staff restrooms….etc.) SUPPLIES The administration office will try to meet teacher/staff needs for supplies. Complete a Supply Check List indicating the supplies you need. Turn it in to Mrs. Melrose Short who will assist in getting supplies to you. TARDINESS Parents/guardians should see that their student arrives each morning, in a timely fashion, assuring the student is not tardy for school first period. Tardiness can cause loss of important instructional time in the classroom not to mention a disruption to others. Our students are allowed a full five-minute passing period between classes. This is ample time to assemble necessary materials and move to the appropriate classroom. Students are considered tardy if not in the appropriate classroom when the tardy bell rings signaling the beginning. Attached in the Appendix of this handbook is the tardy schedule for students per six weeks. Students are not penalized for the first 2 tardies in any one six weeks grading period. Upon the third tardy in a given six-week grading period, the student will be assigned a detention. Excessive tardiness will cause ISS placements and other possible actions to make up classroom time. TAKS TESTING DATES (TENATIVE) March 3, 2008 (Tuesday)

7th Grade Writing/ 8th Reading

April 07, 2008 (Monday) April 08, 2008 (Tuesday) April 28, 2008 (Monday) April 29, 2008 (Tuesday) April 30, 2008 (Wednesday) May 1, 2008 (Thursday) May 2, 2008 (Friday)

8th Grade LAT Mathematics 8th Mathematics 7th Grade LAT Mathematics 7th Grade Math/ 7th & 8th Grade LAT Reading 7th Grade Reading 8th Grade Science 8th Grade Social Studies/ 8th LAT Science

TEACHER DRESS CODE Teachers are role models in dress as well as behavior. Dress should reflect a professional attitude and appearance, appropriate for the workplace. Observe the following guidelines for dress during working hours. • •

• •

The student dress code is in effect for all DMS professional, paraprofessional employees. Appropriate business attire is required for teaching/office staff. EXCEPTIONS: Shop teachers may wear jeans appropriate in taste. PE/Coaching personnel may wear coaching attire other than shorts when in classroom areas. Both of the above personnel groups are to wear business attire on those days when their job duties do not require informal dress. Skirt suits and walking shorts will be acceptable if worn with hose and pumps/flats Jeans, appropriate in taste, with SCHOOL SHIRTS are to be worn only on Fridays. School shirts also include the college or university which the teacher/staff member attended. We should take the opportunity on occasion to promote extended learning options for students. TEACHER’S LOUNGE

The lounge is a place to “get away” during your conference and lunch periods. Please do your part in keeping the area clean. It is also a place to socialize with your peers but do not let it become a griping room and ruin others’ day. If you have concerns, please share them with the administration and/or DISD personnel who perhaps can change the situation for the better and let the lounge be a place where staff can really RELAX! Student and other confidential information should not be discussed in the lounge. Make an appointment in a classroom or other confidential area for such discussions. TEACHER’S MAILBOXES Each teacher has a mailbox in the Teacher’s Lounge. Be sure that you check your mailbox before school starts each morning, during your conference period, and before you leave at the end of the day.

TECHNOLOGY The Technology Department staff is available to assist teachers with technology integration and to trouble shoot minor problems with computers. TELEPHONE In general, teachers should use the phone in the teacher’s lounge or the small telephone rooms in the lounge area. For long distance calls (school business only), please use 800 numbers whenever possible. Except in cases of emergencies, students are not to use the phone during class time. When a student must make a phone call, they are to use the phone in the front office. TEXTBOOKS Students will check out their textbooks through the library. Teachers of mini-classes will turn in a copy of their Textbook Record form on the Friday following each new class cycle. At the same time they are to submit the Textbook Record form from the recently completed class cycle. Book checks should be done at the end of each six weeks along with a scheduled locker clean out. Check each student’s book to be sure their name is in the front. If a book is lost, a second book may not be issued to the student until the first book is paid for. See the Assistant Principal for book prices. WORK REQUESTS – Maintenance and Technology All maintenance and technology work requests must go through the Central Office. An on-line Work Request form may be accessed by: 1. Going to the Decatur ISD Home Page at www.decaturisd.us Sign in to the DISD website. Choose Staff Resources 2. Select Maintenance & Technology 3. Sign in using email 4. Complete the form. 5. Include as much information as possible when completing the form. 6. Password is decatur 7. Click once on the Submit Request button. 8. You will receive a confirmation e-mail. VIDEOS

In general, students are not to view an “R” rated movie. Teachers should carefully review any video material before showing. We should protect our students from viewing anything that is questionable for young adolescents. Should a portion from an R rated movie have a great academic need, an administrator must review and approve the portion. Parents of the students should be notified and given the choice of having their student not view the video. Videos are only to be used to support learning objectives. Videos can be an effective teaching strategy if the students are prepared for what they are to see and how it relates to their area of study. Stopping the video at key points and discussing the material clarifies and deepens understanding. Summarizing and doing a follow-up activity provides closure. **If uncertain, contact an administrator VISITORS ON THE CAMPUS All visitors to the campus are required to stop in the office to sign in and obtain a VISITOR badge through the Ident-a-Kid system. Professionals servicing our students (diagnosticians, speech therapists, etc.) as well as Decatur High School students in the PAL and CAPT programs will have badges with their program names. If you should see a stranger in the building without a VISITOR badge or program badge, escort them to the office. Students are not allowed to bring a visitor to school to spend the day unless that person is contributing to the academic goals of DMS and the student has received the Principal’s permission.

APPENDICIES A-1 Aesop Phone System Instructions for Employees

A-2 Campus Days Reservation Application

Decatur Middle School Campus Days Reservation Application 2008-2009 Academic Year

Name: _______________________________________ Number of days requested: _____________________ Title of Event: ________________________________ Location of Event: ____________________________ How does the attendance at this event assist in reaching the campus and/or district improvement plan goals? _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ Has your department appropriately budgeted for the event or training? _______________________________________________________________________ Department Chair Endorsement Signature: _________________________________ Principal Signature: ________________________________

A-3 District Paid Leave Form

District Paid Leave (Professional Development Leave) Name: ____________________________________________ Campus: __________________________________________ Title of Event ______________________________________ Date and Times of Event______________________________ Location of Event ___________________________________ How does attendance at this event carry out the campus and/or district improvement plan goals? _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________

Staff Signature: _____________________________________

Principal Signature: __________________________________

Approval: __________________________________________

This form needs to be approved at all levels at a minimum of 7 school days before the event occurs. For Central Administration only: AESOP Clerk Change “Other” Code to:

_____ CTE Competition/Show _____District - Data Processing _____ Staff Development - District _____UIL Academic _____UIL Athletic

A-4 Out-of -District Workshop Principal’s Pre-Approval Form Sample: This form is found at DISD Webpage/Staff Resources/PDIP • Fill-in the PDF and print • You may not save a copy

Appendix-B CLASSROOM GUIDANCE AND DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Appendix-B Decatur Middle School – Classroom Guidance and Development Plan Student ____________________________

Teacher_____________________________

Grade Level and Subject____________________________ Class Period __________ Offense #1: description of behavior ________________________________________________ Date: ______________

________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________ Teacher will communicate/speak with student. Suggestion: Phone contact with parent(s). Offense #2: description of behavior _______________________________________________ Date: ______________

_______________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________ Teacher may assign “soft” punishment and\or a detention with the teacher. Student is informed of official, parental contact upon next infraction. Teacher contacts parent by telephone. Offense #3: description of behavior _______________________________________________ Date: _____________

_______________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________ Teacher corresponds with parent by mail explaining current classroom situation, telling the parent the teacher’s conference period, and that the next classroom infraction will result in an administrative referral. A parent phone call is also recommended in conjunction with the correspondence. (Teachers keep a copy of the letter and note phone conversation.) Offense #4: description of behavior _______________________________________________ Date: _____________

_______________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________ The teacher may assign the student two scheduled detentions with the teacher and forwards this document with a copy of the letter to the parent from the above step to the Assistant Principal’s office. If deemed necessary by teacher at that time, the student may be sent to the office with the above noted documentation. (Dr. Gardner 2005)

Appendix-C Texas Public School Nutrition Policy Foods of Minimal Nutritional Value (FMNV) Foods of Minimal Nutritional Value (FMNV) as defined by the Texas Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Division and all forms of candy are not allowed to be provided to students any time anywhere on school premises by anyone (including guest speakers) until after the end of the last scheduled class. (A parent may provide for their own child but no one else). Competitive foods and beverages are not allowed on Middle School campuses for 20072008 from 30 minutes before meal service to 30 minutes after meal service. (Competitive foods are all food and beverages not provided by the school food service). All food, beverage and snack items for Middle School students must comply with TDA portion sizes and total fat must not exceed 30% of calories or 3 grams per 100 calories; saturated fat must not exceed 10% of calories or more than 1 gram per 100 calories; sugar must not exceed more than 10 grams per ounce. Restricted Foods Foods and beverages that are restricted from sale to students are classified in the following four categories: 1. Soda Water: Any carbonated beverage. No product shall be excluded from this definition because it contains discrete nutrients added to the food such as vitamins, minerals and protein. 2. Water Ices: Any frozen, sweetened water such as “…popsicles” and flavored ice with the exception of products that contain fruit or fruit juice. 3. Chewing Gum: Any flavored products from natural or synthetic gums and other ingredients that form an insoluble mass for chewing. 4. Certain Candies: Any processed foods made predominantly from sweeteners or artificial sweeteners with a variety of minor ingredients that characterize the following types: a. Hard Candy: A product made predominantly from sugar (sucrose) and corn syrup that may be flavored and colored, and is characterized by a hard, brittle texture. Includes such items as sour balls, lollipops, fruit balls, candy sticks, starlight mints, after dinner mints, jaw breakers, sugar wafers, rock candy, cinnamon candies, breath mints and cough drops.

b. Jellies and Gums: A mixture of carbohydrates that are combined to form a stable gelatinous system of jellylike character and are generally flavored and colored, and include gum drops, jelly beans, jellied and fruit-flavored slices. c. Marshmallow Candies: An aerated confection composed of sugar, corn syrup, invert sugar, 20 percent water, and gelatin or egg white to which flavors and colors may be added. d. Fondant: A product consisting of microscopic-sized sugar crystals that are separated by a thin film of sugar and/or invert sugar in solution such as candy corn or soft mints. e. Licorice: A product made predominantly from sugar and corn syrup that is flavored with an extract made from the licorice root. f. Spun Candy: A product that is made from sugar that has been boiled at high temperature and spun at a high speed in a special machine. g. Candy Coated Popcorn: Popcorn that is coated with a mixture made predominantly from sugar and corn syrup. NOTE: USDA has approved exceptions for certain products included in the above categories. See TDA, Food and Nutrition Division, Administrators Reference Manuel, for the current list of these exemptions. New FMNV Policy and Exemptions for 2008-2009 1. School Nurses: This policy does not apply to school nurses using FMNVs during the course of providing health care to individual students. 2. Accommodating Students with Special Needs: Special Needs Students whose Individualized Education Program (IEP) plan indicates the use of an FMNV or candy for behavior modification (or other suitable need) may be given FMNV or candy items. 3. School Events: Students may be given FMNV, candy items or other restricted foods during the school day for up to three different events each school year to be determined by the campus. The exempted events must be approved by a school official. During these events, FMNV may not be given during meal times in the areas where school meals are being served or consumed, and regular meal service (breakfast and lunch) must continue to be available to all students in accordance with federal regulations. 4. TAKS Test Days: Schools and parents may provide one additional nutritious snack per day for students taking the TAKS tests. The snack must comply with the fat and sugar limits of the Public School Nutrition Policy and may not contain any foods of minimal nutritional value or consist of candy, chips or dessert type items (cookies, cakes, cupcakes, pudding, ice cream or frozen desserts, etc.).

5. Instructional Use of Food in Classroom: For instructional purposes, teachers may use foods as long as the food items are not considered FMNV or candy. Students may consume food prepared in class for instructional purposes. However, this should be on an occasional basis, and food may not be provided or sold to other students or classes. Food provided for students as part of a class or school cultural heritage event for instructional or enrichment purposes would be exempt from the policy. However, FMNV may not be served during meal periods in the areas where school meals are being served or consumed, and regular meal service (breakfast and lunch) must continue to be available to all students. 6. Field Trips: School approved field trips are exempt from the nutrition policy. A school official must approve the dates and purposes of the field trips in advance. 7. Athletic, UIL, Band and Other Competitions: The nutrition policy does not apply to students who leave campus to travel to athletic, UIL, band or other competitions. The school day is considered to have ended for these students. School activities, athletic functions, etc. that occur after the normal school day are not covered by the policy. For more information contact the Texas Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutrition Division P. O. Box 12847, Austin, TX 78711 (888) TEX-KIDS; [email protected]

Appendix-D Field trips and/or Co-Curricular Student Permission Form To Whom It May Concern: What group will be attending? DMS Band What is the event? Spring Concert in at Harmon Park When will we be leaving the campus: The bus leaves promptly at 6:15 a.m. to allow for heavy traffic and inclement weather When will we return: We will arrive back at the school at 7:00 p.m. and we ask that for student safety you arrive no later than 15 minutes later or make arrangements for someone to pick your child up. If your child may attend with the group please indicate your permission by placing your child’s name on the line below followed by your signature of approval. We also ask that each parent and/or guardian provide a telephone number where you may be reached. ____________________________________

____________________________ Parent and/or Guardian

My child (name first and last) has my permission to attend

Signature _____________________________ _ Telephone Number Does your child have special health care needs I should be made aware of? Please use the following lines to describe the need and any specific care instructions.

Field trips and/or co-curricular trips should be educational experiences planned by the teacher to correlate with an instructional objective. Both such trips must be approved by the administration. A signed parent permission form (Appendix D), for each trip must be on file before any student will be allowed to participate.