Joseph A. Leonard
Middle School

STUDENT HANDBOOK

Message from the Principal

On behalf of the staff, I take pleasure in welcoming you to Leonard Middle School. This handbook is published so that all students of Leonard Middle School may have a ready reference to information necessary to understanding the daily operations of our school. It is also used as our pass system for the school. Since students are required to have their handbooks with them at all times, we are putting a copy of the handbook on our website so that parents can have access to its contents. All students must have their planner in order to travel throughout the building. In case of lost planners copies may be purchased in the office. It is essential that all students read the information contained in this handbook so there may be as few misunderstandings as possible. When this book does not give you the information you need, you should contact your administrators, counselors, or teachers for assistance.

The goal of Leonard Middle School is excellence, and striving to reach this goal must be a cooperative effort on the part of the students, staff, administrators, parents, and community. We earnestly ask for your cooperation in this venture and assure you that the results will be well worth the effort. Therefore, I encourage you to become actively involved in your studies, as well as all aspects of life here at Leonard Middle School. Best wishes for a successful new school year!

Mr. John P. Keane

Principal

Our Shared Vision for the Old Town Schools

Our schools and community will have high expectations for students and staff and will provide an environment and an acceptable level of resources that allow them to reach their maximum potential.

Our schools, always striving for excellence, will be learning centers for our children and our community.

Educators, students, and the community will develop learning skills and will be provided with the technological tools to succeed in our changing world.

Our school facilities will meet the needs of students, staff, community and programs.

Our schools will have a systematic plan to assess student progress, staff performance, and curriculum success so our students will meet the challenges of the changing world.

Our schools and community will encourage and support new ideas and innovative teaching methods.

Our schools, with community support, will strive to be drug free.

Every student, staff and community member will be valued as an individual and treated with respect.

Through ongoing communication, the community and schools will appreciate and celebrate their positive aspects.

POLICY ON DIVERSITY

INDIVIDUALS WHO NEED AUXILIARY AIDS FOR EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION IN PROGRAMS AND SERVICES OF THE OLD TOWN SCHOOL DEPARTMENT ARE INVITED TO MAKE THEIR NEEDS AND PREFERENCES KNOWN TO THE A.D.A. COMPLIANCE COORDINATOR, LORETTA ROBICHAUD, AT 827-3921 OR TDD 1-995-3323.

STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY

We believe that diversity of thought and being is essential to the strength and richness of our society. The Old Town School system will provide all staff and students with the opportunity to pursue their academic and social endeavors in an environment free from verbal and physical intimidation. We stand firm in the belief that each individual must be accorded the respect and fair treatment deserved by all members of the human community.

OBJECTIVES

Students and staff shall demonstrate a responsibility to the above philosophy by displaying on a daily basis

1. A personal integrity and honesty rooted in respect for the truth, intellectual curiosity, and love for learning.

2. A sense of duty to self, family, school, and community.

3. Self-esteem rooted in the recognition of one's potential.

4. A respect for the rights of all persons regardless of their race, religion, gender, sexual preference, age, physical condition, or mental state.

5. A recognition of the rights of others to hold and express differing views, combined with the capacity to make discriminating judgments among competing opinions.

6. A commitment to the principles of justice and fair play.

7. An ability to deal with differing views by focusing on the views and not the person.

8. A disposition of understanding, sympathy, concern and compassion for others.

9. A commitment to not engage in any verbal discourse that would project a negative stereotype about others whether in their presence or not.

10. A willingness to take full responsibility for one's own actions and encourage others to do the same.

LEONARD MIDDLE SCHOOL FACULTY

2008-2009

Mr. John P. Keane.......................................................................................... Principal

Mr. Jennifer Cyr............................................................................. Assistant Principal/Athletic Director

Mrs. Tara Ford................................................................................... School Secretary

Mrs. Tracey O’Connell................................................................ Guidance Counselor

Mrs. Vicki Smith............................................................................ Guidance Secretary

GRADE 6 TEAM

Mrs. Sara Roberge................................................. Language Arts, Social Studies

Ms. Lori LaCombe-Burby................................. Social Studies, Science

Lee Birmingham........................................................ Math, Science, Social Studies

Mrs. Lori Townsend.................................................Social Studies, Reading, English

Mrs. Marion Gray........................................................Social Studies, Mathematics

GRADE 7 TEAM

Ms. J. Layman................................................................... Mathematics

Ms. Gail Weatherbee.......................................................... Science

Mr. Stuart King.................................................................. Social Studies

Mrs. Misty Burgess...........................................................................Language Arts

Mrs. Michelle Tuttle......................................................Social Studies, Langauge Arts

Mr. Dana Maxim........................................................... Science, Social Studies, Math

GRADE 8 TEAM

Ms. Gail Weatherbee............................................................................. Science

Mr .John Meigs-McDonald..............................................................................Language Arts

Mr. Stuart King.................................................................. Social Studies

Mrs. Judy Campbell...................................................................Mathematics, Science

Mr. Todd McKinley.....................................................................Language Arts, Social Studies

EXPLORATORY TRAINING

Miss Kelly O'Brien.................................................................................... Spanish, World Cultures

Mr. Jon Doty....................................................................................... Gifted and Talented

Mr. Adam Fournier....................................................................... Physical Education

Mrs. Sandra Bailey-Bowen............................................................ Family and Consumer Sciences

Mrs. Trisha Kelley.................................................................................................... Art

Ms. Shianne Wheeler........................................................... Music/Band

Ms. Deborah Ziobron.................................................................................... Health

Mrs. Stephanie Sullivan..................................................................................... Music

SPECIAL AREA STAFF

Mrs. Peggy Boone........................................................................................... Librarian

Mrs. Regina Creeley......................................................................... Special Education

Mr. Jon Hawley........................................................................ Special Ed. Technician

Mr. William Meehan........................................................................ Special Education

Ms. Elizabeth Mares........................................................................Special Education

Mrs. Teresa Morin.................................................................... Special Ed. Technician

Ms. Christie Jernigan....................................................................... Special Education

Mrs. Jill Calella..................................................................... Special Ed. Technician

Mr. Arthur Lidral............................................................... Special Ed. Technician

Mr. Eric Schwabb...............................................................Special ed. Technician

CUSTODIAL STAFF

Mr. David Fortier.................................................................................. Head Custodian

Mr. Tim Fowler.............................................................................................. Custodian

Mr. Dan Sanborne........................................................................................ Custodian

SCHOOL LUNCH STAFF

Mrs. Anne Richard..................................................................................... Head Cook

Mrs. Wark......................................................................................................... Cook

Mrs. Ruth Ann Martin......................................................................................... Cook

Mrs. Michelle Shorey............................................................................................ Cook

COACHING STAFF

TBA............................................................................................................. Baseball

Mr. Chuck Nealy..................................................................................... Boys Basketball

Mr. Lester Cowan ................................................................................... Girls Basketball

Mr. Stephen Dexter............................................................................... Cross Country

Ms. J. Layman..................................................................................... Field Hockey

Mr. Lester Cowan.......................................................................................... Football

Mr. Matt Cyr.......................................................................................... Boys Soccer

Miss Jessie Priest..................................................................................... Girls Soccer

Ms. Robin Cacace.......................................................................................... Softball

TBA..................................................................................................................Cheering

SCHOOL NURSE

Mrs. Carolyn LaBossiere......................................................................... School Nurse

FIRE DRILL REGULATIONS

Fire alarm instructions will be posted in each room. If the alarm is sounded, students will immediately file out through doors and down stairways as directed. For your safety and protection, a quiet, orderly procedure is necessary during fire drills. When leaving and re-entering the school, WALK - DON'T RUN. While out of the building, stay with your group. Never line up in the driveway, because vehicles and other equipment may be converging on the school. Once outside, all groups will report to the right field area of the softball field.

BUILDING EVACUATION PROCEDURES

Each room will conspicuously display directions for evacuation.

The signal to evacuate will be a continual siren alarm with strobe lights.

First Floor

Rooms south of the first floor corridor divider will exit through the gym ramp doors.

Rooms north of the corridor divider will exit directly through the north lobby door, and use the sidewalk to proceed to the softball field.

The Tech. Ed. Room (shop) exit will be through the south shop door.

The gym exits will be the north gym door for girls and the south gym door for boys.

Second Floor

Rooms south of the corridor divider will move down the south stairs and out the exit on the gym ramp.

Rooms north of the corridor divider will move down the north stairs and directly out the exit at the foot of the stairs and use the stairs in the parking lot to proceed to the softball field.

1. No students should gather in the parking lots or on the paved roadways. In case of fire, there is danger involving large trucks.

2. All teachers should accompany students out of the building. Upon reaching the softball field, teachers should account for all students.

3. No running or unnecessary activity should be permitted at any time.

4. Once notified by the administration to do so, students should move in an orderly fashion back into the building through the same doors they used for exit.

HOMEWORK

Homework is a powerful extension of our education program. All classes use homework to reinforce skills. A portion of students' quarterly grades will be determined by grades assigned to individual homework. Each grade level has developed its own homework policies. Please see the team teachers if you have any questions.

NO SCHOOL SIGNAL

An announcement of the suspension of school on any given day will be made over the local radio and TV stations. A call to the Office of the Superintendent of Schools can confirm that school is not in session.

ACADEMIC PROGRAM

The academic program at Leonard Middle School is designed around the interdisciplinary team approach. A team of teachers in each grade provides the five basic academic courses. Also, a team of specialty area teachers provides courses in the unified arts.

Each academic team for grades 6-8 presents the following academic core courses:

Language Arts Social Studies

Mathematics Science

The Unified Arts (UA) courses include:

Art Applied Science

Computers Life Skills

Music (Gr. 6) Physical Education

Band (elective) Health

Introduction to World Cultures

MARKING AND GRADING SYSTEM

Academic and Unified Arts Subjects

A - 90-100

B - 80-89

C - 70-79

D - 65-69

E - Below 65 - Failure

Teachers will be expected to fully inform students of their grading systems used for evaluating exams, projects, homework and class participation. In computation of semester averages, the numerical average will be cut off after the decimal point. Normally, final quarter grades will not be given out prior to the issuance of report cards. Cheating and plagiarism are serious offenses. Teachers, in conjunction with the administration, will determine what consequences will result from cheating. In these instances, a parent conference will be required. Makeup for missed work is required. Please refer to the discussion under general policies and procedures. Other specific aspects of the grading policy followed at the Middle School may be discussed by any student with the teacher, counselor or principal.

HONOR ROLL

A list of students with Honor grades is posted at the close of each ranking quarter. Honor Roll requirements are:

Highest Honors: 93 average with no grade below 85 and no Incompletes.

High Honors: 91 average with no grade below 80 and no Incompletes.

Honors: 85 average with no grade below 77 and no Incompletes.

ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY POLICY

Definitions

1) Probation ‑ Involved with an activity but being monitored for academic progress.
2) Ineligible ‑ Not allowed to participate in activities covered by this policy.
3) Probation period ‑ Four weeks

4) Ineligibility period ‑ Until the ranks have been brought up to acceptable level on either the progress report or the rank card.

Ineligibility

1) Any student receiving two or more failing core grades, or one core grade and at least two failing unified arts grades, at the end of a probationary period will immediately be ineligible.
2) A student will remain ineligible until he/she has brought his/her ranks up to the minimum standard on either the progress report or the rank card.
3) Ineligible students will attend the mandatory assistance session designed by each grade level team.

Probation

1) Any student receiving two or more failing core grades, or one core grade and at least two failing unified arts grades, at the end of a ranking period or on the progress report will be put on probation.

2) During probation a student will be a full participant of the activity, in that he/she can practice and play. The activity advisor will be notified of the participant's status.

3) Probation will last four weeks.

4) At the end of that time, if two core failing grades or one core and two or more unified art grades are reported, that student will become ineligible. That student will be on probation if he/she started the ranking period with less than two failing grades.

5) When a student is placed on probation or is ineligible, the Athletic Director will meet with that student and the Principal will send a letter home to parents informing them of their child's eligibility status.

6) Probationary students will attend the mandatory assistance session, to be designed by each grade level team.

Summer School

1) Summer school has no bearing on fall eligibility. Eligibility for the first ranking period is based on the last ranking period in the spring, except the first quarter for sixth grade.

Activities Covered By This Policy

1) All activities offered by Leonard Middle School, during the school day, and/or in which the child represents the school in interscholastic competition, interscholastic conferences or special events and/or any programs outside of the school day, are covered by this policy.

2) Co-curricular activities that are graded and attendance is taken do not fall under this policy.

3) School-wide, grade-wide, or team-wide activities that are part of the school day and open for participation by everyone, do not fall under this policy.

4) At the present time, the activities that would fall under the policy are:

All interscholastic sports

All intramural sports that are interscholastic

All clubs

All academic teams

All non-graded music programs

5) At the present time, the activities that would not fall under the proposed policy are:

All classes in the After-School Program

Graded Music Programs

Science Camp

Dances

Field trips

Intramural sports that are not interscholastic

ACTIVITY PROGRAM

The activity program at Leonard Middle School is designed so that every student can find some worthwhile and interesting extra-curricular activity. All students are urged to participate in as wide a range of activities as time sensibly permits and as long as formal studies are not adversely affected and the student is academically eligible. The school believes that participation in activities is a valuable adjunct to the total school program and provides many opportunities for student expression and success.

Most activities and clubs are organized to meet during the daily activity periods. Each club or organization has a faculty advisor and is permitted to conduct a flexible program of its own design and choosing. Fund-raising activities and events that take students out of the normal school facilities must always have prior approval of the Principal. Meeting times and places are announced periodically. Every student should report to the club that interests him/her. All are welcome.

In addition, the music department offers a fine opportunity to participate in the school band and chorus. The various music organizations perform at school-sponsored functions and at community-related events.

School Colors Blue and White

School Emblem Native American Brave

STUDENT ACTIVITY LETTER

The criteria for earning a school activity letter is outlined below:

1) In order to earn a letter, a student needs to earn 6 points in a single year or an accumulation of 12 points during his/her middle school years.
2) A student will be awarded his/her letter at the earliest recognition assembly after the required points have been earned.

STUDENT COUNCIL

Each year a Student Council is organized to provide the student body with an opportunity to have leadership in the affairs of the school. Any student wishing to serve on student council may sign up to do so. A President, Vice-President, Secretary, and Treasurer of the Council are selected from among the membership to conduct the business of the Council. The Student Council sponsors many activities and projects during the school year and deserves the enthusiastic support and cooperation of the entire student body.

INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC PROGRAM

All students are urged to consider participating in the interscholastic sports program at Leonard Middle School. Without exception, all academically eligible students have equal opportunity to try out for a position on the sports teams. A competitive team selection process exists in basketball, baseball, softball and soccer. There is a no-cut selection process in cross country, field hockey, spring track and football.

The interscholastic sports program is grounded in the firm belief that athletics should promote self-esteem in team members. This belief suggests that interscholastic sports should stress in youngsters a greater level of tolerance and appreciation for others who are less skilled and gifted. These qualities, when developed, set an athlete apart as a friendly and supportive person. All team members profit from participating with others who have positive values and attitudes.

Finally, the Leonard Middle School interscholastic sports program stresses activities that are developmentally appropriate for the minds and bodies of adolescent youngsters. A thoughtful and caring approach is stressed by coaches with regard to proper development athletically, psychologically and socially of the athletes on the Middle School sports teams.

Goals: The Leonard Middle School interscholastic sports program

1. assures that student athletes will be given every opportunity to develop basic skills in the sport in which they are participating.

2. stresses that all team members will have an opportunity to play in the scheduled games.

3. expects students to learn and display good sportsmanship at all times.

4. expects students to learn and display team values such as commitment to the team, sharing of resources, and caring for other team members.

5. requires that students keep the game in proper perspective, neither making too much nor too little of the contest. A love of the game and appreciation of the opportunity to participate is an intended outcome of team play and membership.
6. requires that students comport themselves in a positive and appropriate manner. Athletes are representatives of the school and community and should act accordingly as individuals and as team members.

Each member of an athletic team and his or her parents are required to complete and sign a form signifying that they know of and intend to abide by the school's athletic code. Failure to live up to this code may result in a student's being denied eligibility to participate. All students wishing to tryout for athletics must have a physical on file.

POLICY #3545.2 STUDENT TRANSPORTATION HOME AFTER ATHLETIC EVENTS AND SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

It is expected that all students traveling with school groups, athletic and non-athletic, will travel by the school-provided transportation to and from the activity. Exceptions to this policy will only be made if a written request from a parent/guardian is made in advance and approved by the school administration. In all cases, students will only be released from the event directly to their parent(s)/guardian(s).

Coaches are not to provide approval on their own and may only deviate from this procedure if a medical or family emergency exists

STUDENT CONDUCT

All students must assume responsibility for their own conduct, and will be held accountable for their behavior. The faculty expects every student to conduct himself/herself in a satisfactory manner and in such a way that his/her behavior will bring credit upon himself, his/her parents, school and community. Central to satisfactory conduct is pride. A student who has pride is courteous to his/her teachers and friends, respectful of the buildings and equipment, and is dependable, prompt and industrious.

Accountability for behavior is exhibited in a number of ways. We are all being evaluated constantly in terms of performance, both academic and social. The proud person will enjoy a large measure of pleasure and success, while the irresponsible may experience defeat, failure, and frustration. All students should set their goals high, make sound and responsible decisions, and conduct themselves in a manner that brings credit and respect.

From time to time it will be necessary to take strong disciplinary action for situations that arise out of unsatisfactory student conduct. This action may take many forms and can range from a simple conference to a suspension from school. Most cases of this nature can be resolved through the conference process. However, when continuous and/or serious situations occur, stronger action may be in order.

For serious disciplinary infractions, suspension from school may be necessary. A student who has made a serious violation of the general school policy on conduct will be given an opportunity to explain his side of the situation and to hear all of the mitigating arguments pertaining to the unsatisfactory conduct. Then, if in the judgment of the principal or assistant principal further action is warranted, a suspension of 1 to 10 days will be imposed. In all suspension cases, parents will be notified,

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The following chart is a guideline for probable disciplinary action when minor behavioral infractions occur:

OFFICE REFERRALS POLICY

INFRACTION PENALTY

First Office Referral* 1 hour office detention,

Parent notification.

Second Office Referral* 2 hours office detention

Parent notification

Third Office Referral* 1-day suspension

Parent notification

Fourth Office Referral* 3-day suspension

Parent notification

Fifth Office Referral* 5-day suspension

Parent notification

Sixth Office Referral* 5-day suspension; Conference

with Superintendent

SERIOUS DISCIPLINE INFRACTIONS

DISCIPLINE INFRACTION PENALTY

Continued disruptive classroom behavior Office Referral

Repeatedly skipping classroom Office Referral

discipline detentions

Use of profanity Office referral/possible suspension

Possession of and/or use of weapons Up to 10-day suspension; referral to

School Board; parent conference;

probable referral to legal authorities

Smoking in school or on school grounds 3-5 day suspension; parent conference;

probable referral to legal authority

Fighting in school or on school grounds 3-5 day suspension; parent conference

Harassment – verbal/sexual/physical See policy in appendix.

Throwing snowballs 1-2 day suspension; parent conference

Directing obscenities, threatening or 3-5 day suspension; parent conference

causing bodily harm to a teacher

Insubordination to school staff 3-5 day suspension; parent conference

Theft and/or destruction of student 3-5 day suspension; parent conference

or school property

Possession of or being under the Up to 10-day suspension as per School

influence of drugs or alcohol Board Policy; parent conference; prob-

able referral to legal authority

Repeated offenses will require additional penalties and/or referral to the School Board.

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GENERAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

OPENING

1. Students must be in homeroom by the 7:50 a.m.bell. However, a student entering late, whether excused or not excused, must use the front door and report directly to the Office for a pass.

LOCKERS

2. Students are assigned a hall locker. Students are urged to keep all their books and valuables in their lockers. Physical Education clothes and sneakers should be labeled with permanent marker. The school can in no way accept the responsibility for lost or stolen items. Students are advised of the fact that although a student may exercise exclusive control of his/her locker concerning access by fellow students, that control is not exclusive against the school and its officials. Students are to use a rule of "Good Taste" in placing pictures in their lockers. No pictures or decorations are to be on the outside of the lockers unless authorized. No pictures of an offensive nature should be posted (i.e., alcohol, drugs, pin-ups, etc.). All lockers must be kept closed when not in use. The school administration reserves the right to inspect student lockers in order to protect the health, welfare, and safety of pupils.

BOOKS

3. Textbooks and some supplies are provided to all students by the Old Town School Department. Books are very costly. Students have a responsibility to care for their books and see that they are not damaged in any way. All textbooks issued to students must be covered. A periodic inspection of books will be held, and any student damaging or losing his/her books will be billed by the Office for the replacement cost. From time to time, students should check at the office concerning lost or found books. A bill will be issued for lost books and another book will be re-issued when the bill is paid.

COMPUTER USE

Please refer to the Technology Use Guidelines in the appendix.

CLASSES

5. Classes begin immediately after morning and announcements. It is expected that all classes will remain under controlled and supervised conditions during the entire period. There is no opportunity to visit or stop in the restrooms between classes. Students who report late to class may be disciplined with detention.

HALLWAY TRAFFIC

6. Students will move from room to room according to the directions of the teachers on the teams. Students are reminded to use good judgment in bringing books and supplies to class so they will not have to move about more than necessary. While classes are in session, students may receive permission to move about the building by having their planner signed by a teacher. Backpacks are to be left in lockers.

DETENTION

7. School is in session until 2:35. Any student may be detained until that time, although normal dismissal time is 2:05. No student may leave the building during the school day without permission from the Principal's Office and a parent/guardian. Those students remaining after 2:05 for make-up work and detention are expected to remain in a classroom and to conduct themselves as if classes were in session. They are to leave the building immediately upon completion of the work or detention. Office detention ends at 3:00 pm.

24-HOUR NOTICE: All students will be given a day's warning when it becomes necessary to remain for detention. After the student is warned, he must stay the next day and furnish his own transportation home. The 24-hour notice will be waived when the student already has made plans to stay after school on the day he/she receives a detention. The student should notify his/her parents of the above procedure. If a student feels he cannot stay because of transportation problems, he/she needs to let the office know. The office will then contact the home to clarify the situation.

SCHOOL GROUNDS

8. The school grounds are to be regarded as part of the physical plant and used accordingly. No paper or other litter should be left on the grounds, and care should be given to the trees and shrubbery. The use of any kind of unauthorized vehicles (snowmobiles, mini-bikes, scooters, skateboards, roller blades, bicycles etc.) on the school grounds is strictly prohibited.

SMOKING

9. Smoking in the building or on the school grounds is strictly prohibited according to Old Town School Board Policy

5139.3. For a copy of this policy, please contact the Superintendent’s Office.

LUNCH

10. All students will be required to remain at school during lunch. A hot lunch program is operated for those who wish to purchase a lunch. Certain students who qualify may be provided a reduced rate or free lunch upon approval of application. Students who prefer may bring their lunch from home and/or take advantage of the à la carte feature. Milk will be sold in the cafeteria. Students are expected to conduct themselves properly. Since several students may use a single dining place, it is necessary to leave the area as neat and clean as you would hope to find it. All papers, food scraps, and other items should be scrupulously cleaned up and placed in the provided receptacles.

DRESS

11. Dress must be neat and clean and not causing any undue disruption to the process of education in the classroom. While the school will not prescribe clothing styles, students are expected to exercise good taste and good judgment in their personal grooming. No belly shirts, no long chains, no cigarette, alcohol, violence or vulgar pictures/language on clothes, no muscle shirts, no exposed undergarments, or spaghetti-strap shirts are permitted. No hats are to be worn in school. A conference with parents may be necessary if personal dress and grooming habits are thought to be offensive.

GUM CHEWING

12. Gum chewing in school is at the discretion of the classroom teacher. “No gum zones” must be obeyed. These areas include the gymnasium, computer room and music room.

PHONE

13. Guidelines for emergency use of phones: Students may use the office phone for the following reasons: a) illness, b) school schedule changes, c) parental requests, d) teacher requests, e) any other extenuating circumstance that could not be avoided.

Guidelines for non-emergency use of phones:

a) Students' non-emergency phone use will be monitored. Non-emergency phone use refers to those phone calls that could have been avoided through proper planning and organization (e.g., the student forgot his/her gym clothes and wants to call home.

b) Student use of the phones for recreational planning is prohibited.
c) Students may use the phone only during homeroom times unless otherwise given permission by a teacher/secretary/guidance counselor or principal.
d) Students will have a total of three (3) non-emergency phone use passes per quarter.
e) Students need to ask their homeroom teacher for permission to use the phone. If granted, the homeroom teacher will issue a pass to go to the office or allow the student to use the phone in the room. The teacher will check off the student’s name for phone use on a prepared attendance sheet.
f) It shall be the teacher’s decision to send a student to the office or to allow the student to use the phone in the room.
g) Only two students per homeroom may go to the office at any one time (including use of the phone) unless they have been sent for.
h) A teacher may allow a child to use the phone during regular classes but the call needs to be reported to the homeroom teacher.
i) A student who has used all phone passes will be denied the use of the phone unless the teacher/administrator feels that it is truly an emergency that could result in unsafe conditions for that child.
j) After 2:35 p.m. phone use will be at the discretion of supervisory staff and will not count towards the three uses per quarter.
k) All athletes should use the phone in the gym for after practice/game arrangements.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

14. Attendance and punctuality are responsibilities that each student must take seriously. Frequent absence is the single most important cause of academic difficulty. Prompt and regular attendance is an excellent habit to establish NOW. Note to parents: Please make every effort to let the school know if your child will be absent. School personnel may call your home/work if not notified.

NOTES: Any student who is absent must present a note written by his/her parents or guardian to the office upon re-admission to the school. The note should state the reason for the absence. The school takes a dim view of absences that are not absolutely necessary, such as those incurred for social or recreational purposes. A copy of the attendance policy may be obtained from the Principal’s Office.

MAKE-UP WORK

15. Make-up work is always arranged by the student and his/her individual teachers. The student has the responsibility to contact his/her teachers under the following guidelines:

A. Following an absence, each student will have two days in which to arrange for make-up work with his/her teachers.

B. The length of time and specific arrangements for make-up work will be at the discretion of individual teachers based on the merits of each situation.

C. If the required work is not made up satisfactorily within the terms of the agreement, a zero will be recorded on the student's rank with no further provision or opportunity to make arrangements for the completion of this work.

D. Students who have incomplete work at the end of the quarter may have, at the discretion of the teacher, two weeks to complete the work. A temporary "I" will be placed on the grade report; after two weeks a permanent grade will be recorded.

COLLECTIONS

16. The following policy on collections, solicitations, and school pictures will be in effect: Solicitations of any kind within the school are strictly forbidden. This includes drives, sales, and collections by any outside group or agency. The only exception to this policy will be by prior approval of the Principal and then only when the activity is conducted by a recognized student organization and will be conducted by said organization only within the school building. The only photographs allowable under this policy will be those arranged by the Adviser of the Yearbook for publication in the annual issue of the Yearbook, and those duly authorized by the Principal.

VISITORS

17. Visitors to our school are always welcome. We invite parents to visit the school by appointment when classes are in session, and to have them become active supporters of our activity and athletic programs. Youths who are not registered members of Leonard Middle School must have clearance from a school administrator to be in the building. All visitors will report to the school office upon entering the building in order to be guided to the appropriate place or class, and to receive a visitor’s badge.

LIBRARY

18. The school library is open to all students, and wide use of the facilities is encouraged. Library hours, in general, are from 7:40 A.M. to 2:35 P.M. In order to visit the Library during the school day when classes are in session, the student must obtain permission from his homeroom or classroom teacher. The School Librarian will expect full cooperation from all students in the daily operation of the Library.

GUIDANCE

19. The school has a full-time Guidance Counselor. Any student may ask to see the Counselor at any time. Often a student may be referred to the Counselor by a teacher for consultation regarding his/her program or personal adjustment. There is also available a great deal of literature and information that will assist the student in planning vocational choices and academic programs of a post-secondary nature. Every student is welcome to consult with the Guidance Counselor often.

ASSEMBLIES

20. Assemblies are held from time to time during and after school hours. The audience is determined by the nature of the assembly and at the discretion of the faculty. All students are expected to be courteous, respectful, and dignified and to show the performers all due respect.

Annually, a final awards assembly is held for each grade. At this time, students are recognized for their achievements and important contributions to the school.

MEDICATION

21. Students who must take medication, either prescription or non-prescription, at school are required to have a form on file giving parent permission. These forms are sent home the first day of school and are also available at the office. A form must be signed by a parent/guardian and returned to the office at the time the medication is brought to school. Parents are requested to bring their child's medication to the office rather than sending it with the child. Students will take medication only under the direct supervision of office personnel, and all medication must be stored in the office unless other arrangements are made with school officials. Whenever possible, parents should arrange their children's medication schedule so that all medication may be taken at home.

STUDENTS LEAVING BUILDING

22. Students are to leave the building immediately upon completing their daily requirements. Once clear of the building, students are not to re-enter without permission. At games and concerts, students who attend the events may not re-enter the building once they have left.

BULLETIN BOARDS AND POSTERS

23. Students are to refrain from posting items on bulletin boards unless specifically authorized to do so by a school official. Posters are to be cleared by the office and displayed only in authorized areas.

ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE

24. There is a new drop off site at the school. All vehicles must enter the upper driveway and proceed to the drop off area by the gym. No drop-offs are allowed on Oak Street. Vehicles must exit from the lower driveway.

BUS SAFETY

24.1. Pedestrians are to pay close attention to school bus and other general traffic around the school. Always stay on the walk areas. Do not walk in the streets or driveway areas of the school, particularly when bus traffic is heavy.

24.2 Bus students are warned to be alert to other vehicle traffic when boarding and leaving the bus. Never crowd around a moving bus.

24.3 Satisfactory behavior on the bus is extremely important. The driver must give his full attention to operating the vehicle and cannot be distracted by unruly and disruptive passengers. Remember, the driver of the bus has full supervisory authority over passengers and must be obeyed at all times.

ILLNESS AT SCHOOL

25. Whenever a student is ill at school, he/she should have their planner signed and report to the office. A clinic is available where a student may rest for a brief period, if necessary. No student will be excused unless school officials have confirmed with a parent, or other responsible adult acting in behalf of the parent, that the student has permission to leave the building.

GAMBLING AND GAMES OF CHANCE

27. Gambling/games of chance in school are strictly forbidden. Office referral, parent conference and a possible 3-5 day suspension may result.

DRUG POLICY

28. Alcohol and other drug use, abuse, and dependency is one of today's major community problems. The school system, as a community institution, deals with students and staff and recognizes that the American Medical Association considers chemical dependency to be a treatable disease and that its progress can be arrested. The school system recognizes its role in establishing policies and procedures for chemical dependency education, prevention and early intervention for its employees and students. In that effort, the school system will work closely with other community organizations and individuals who share the task of addressing chemical dependency issues. Administratively, the school system recognizes its responsibility to establish procedures and to assist employees and students to address their own use and abuse problems as well as the problems of significant others. Those procedures will ensure the confidential nature of all school records and any referrals to non-school agencies or individuals. This policy is designed solely to achieve restoration of health and provide support for full recovery.

Proof of possession, use, sale or transfer of drugs (including marijuana and/or alcohol) by students within a school, on school property, or in conjunction with a school-sponsored activity shall result in suspension from school by the principal from one (1) to ten (10) full school days. Repeated violations of this policy may result in recommendation to the superintendent of schools and the school board for expulsion from school. For a copy of this policy, please contact the Superintendent’s Office.

WEAPONs

29 It is the policy of the Old Town School Department to take a zero tolerance position on weapons in schools or on school property. Violations of this policy will be subject to severe school and/or legal consequence. For a copy of this policy, please contact the Superintendent of Schools.

CONDUCT ON SCHOOL GROUNDS

30.1 Lighters, cell phones, pagers, beepers, etc., should not be brought to school.

30.2 The school assumes no responsibility for student injuries incurred while playing "pick-up" games not authorized or supervised.

VOLUNTEERS

30. Occasionally, a student may work with a volunteer. All efforts will be made to contact parent(s) before initiating this process. Volunteers in no way assume the role of education instructor. They may, however, demonstrate skills and techniques in arts and crafts or special interest areas, as well as act as tutors. Anyone wishing to volunteer is asked to contact the school. All guests and volunteers must report to the office to receive a visitor badge.
31. Peaks- LMS has a parent involvement organization similar to a PTO. Contact the school principal if your willing to participate.

APPENDIX

Harassment Policy

LMS will simply not tolerate any form of harassment. The board has defined harassment very clearly as any behavior that deliberately causes emotional suffering, embarrassment or pain. In particular, student-to-student harassment will be handled in the following way:

A) The first intervention will be at the teacher level. A conference with the student or students, a call to the home a discussion with the team and a documentation of the event will happen at this level. Since the team has been informed, they are all poised to respond to the second intervention if the behavior continues.

B) The second intervention will be a referral to guidance stating that this is a harassment issue. A conference with the student or students, a call to home, a discussion with the administration, instructions to the team filling out the harassment form and a documentation of all the steps will happen at this level. Since the administration has been informed they are poised to respond to a third intervention of the behavior continues.

C) The third intervention will be a referral to the Assistant Principal stating that the referral was made because of repeated harassment. A conference with the student consequence for the blue slip, call to the home, discussion with Principal, instruction to the team applying a restraining order form, and documentation of the event will happen at this level. Since the Principal is aware of the issue he is poised to respond to a fourth intervention of the behavior continues.

D) The fourth intervention will be a referral to the Principal stating that the referral was

made because of repeated harassment. A conference with the student, a call to the home, removal from school for three days, discussion with the superintendent, instructions to the team, discussion with the Police and documentation of the event will happen at this level. Since the Superintendent is aware of the issue, he will be poised to respond to a fifth intervention, should the behavior continue.

E) The fifth intervention will be a referral to the Principal stating that the referral was made because of repeated harassment The principal will conference with the student, remove the student from school for 5 days, refer the student to the Superintendent and document the event. The Superintendent will contact the parents and set a conference with them and their child. The police may be called to make a summons.

F;) Any further harassment issues with this student will be handled by the Superintendent.