Susquehanna Township Middle School...1 Susquehanna Township Middle School Student Handbook Phone # - 657-5125 Fax # - 657-9841 MS Contact Information DO Contact Information, 657-5100

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Susquehanna Township

Middle School Student Handbook

Phone # - 657-5125 Fax # - 657-9841

MS Contact Information DO Contact Information, 657-5100

Main Office/Attendance, Option 1 Superintendent, Dr. Tod Kline Principals’ Office, Option 3 Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Tamara Willis Principal, Ken Edwards Assistant Principal, Kristi Prime Business Mgr., Oslwen Anderson Nurse’s Office, Option 4 Director of HR, Kathy McCool Rachel Sider Director of Pupil Services, Pauline Zozos Guidance Office, Option 2 Danae Klock Nick Obielecki ANONYMOUS TIP LINE

Students and parents are encouraged to

use the Susquehanna Township Police Tip

Line, 900-TIPS (8477), to anonymously

report safety and security concerns.

Food Services, Option 7 Jackie McMichael Transportation, Option 8 Deb Reed Athletics, Option 6

This book belongs to: ________________________________________________________________________

AE Teacher: ___________________________________________________ Grade: ______________________

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MISSION AND VISION

Mission: The Success of Every Learner

Vision: World Class. Every Day. In Every Way.

HOURS OF OPERATION The District operates on a six-day cycle which rotates sequentially without regard to the days of

the week. Consequently, a related arts class is not “lost” because school was not in session on a particular

day. Whenever school reopens after a weekend, holiday, snow day, etc., the next number day is used.

The student day is divided into nine forty-five minute periods. The front doors to STMS open

at 7:27AM, with 1st period beginning at 7:40AM. The first period of the day includes the WAVE

with building announcements, attendance, band/chorus/orchestra, and/or academic enrichment.

The students then move into their daily schedules. Dismissal begins at 2:37PM. The buses leave

promptly at 2:45PM. See examples of our building schedules on page 7.

SCHOOL-WIDE POSITIVE BEHAVIOR INTERVENTION and SUPPORT

Students are expected to strive to hit the target every day by following A.R.R.O.W.S. At

STMS we believe in reinforcing good behavior and acknowledging the students who are doing the

right things and meeting our ARROWS expectations. When a student is caught doing something good

or meeting our expectations they can receive an A.R.R.O.W.S. card. These cards can then be turned in

for rewards.

Accountable

What is it? – An accountable student is responsible for their behavior and takes ownership of

their actions.

What does it look like? – Being accountable comes from within. It is doing what is right even

when no one is looking. It is being dependable and reliable.

What does in not look like? An accountable student does NOT roam the halls when they have

asked to go to the restroom. An accountable student does NOT blame others.

Respectful

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What is it? – A respectful student is one who is polite, kind and considerate to classmates and

adults.

What does it look like? – It is saying thank you to the cafeteria worker who serves lunch daily

or picking up paper that you drop on the floor so the custodian does not have to pick it up.

What does it not look like? -- A respectful student does NOT talk back to adults or bust on

other students when they make mistakes. A respectful student does not bully others.

Ready to Learn

What is it? – Coming to class prepared, not only with the necessary class supplies but also with

a positive attitude; willing to work hard and do your best daily.

What does it look like? – A student who is ready to learn participates in class, asks questions

when they do not understand, uses their student planner to write down assignments and brings

their books, notebooks and pencils to class.

What does it not look like? – A student who is ready to learn does NOT sleep in class, talk to

others during instruction or fail to do their homework.

Organized

What is it? – An organized student is prepared to learn and follows procedures.

What does it look like? – An organized student takes the time and effort to keep their locker

clean and their notebooks in working order. An organized student completes assignments and

then submits them on time to their teacher.

What does it not look like? – An organized student does NOT arrive to class unprepared with

papers hanging out of their binders and lockers.

Well Behaved

What is it? – A well behaved student works to meet expectations on the bus, in the cafeteria, in

the hallways and in the classroom.

What does it look like? – A well behaved student walks on the right side of the hallway, helps

others when they are in need and hits their target with A.R.R.O.W.S.

What does it not look like? – A well behaved student does NOT throw food in the cafeteria, is

not out of their seat during class time or scream while on the bus.

Safe

What is it? – A safe student acts in a way that does not place themselves or others in danger of

getting hurt and objects at risk of being broken or destroyed.

What does it look like? – A safe student will always report a dangerous situation to an adult, will

keep their hands to themselves and will be careful when walking up and down the stairs.

What does it not look like? – A safe student will NOT run in the hallways, open an exterior door

or horse around during emergency drills.

In addition, each of our classrooms utilizes an online program called Class Dojo. Dojo is a system by

where teachers can assign students either positive or negative points depending on their behavior. As a

parent, you are able to access your student’s Dojo account to see how many points they have. You can

even sign up to be notified each time your student receives a Dojo. To gain access to your child’s Dojo

account, please contact one of their teachers. Email addresses are posted on our website at

www.hannasd.org.

http://www.hannasd.org/

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

STUDENT ATTENDANCE

Attendance/Tardiness ..................................................................................................................... 8

Educational Trips ........................................................................................................................... 8

Withdrawals and Transfers ............................................................................................................ 8

GENERAL INFORMATION

Biographical Information ................................................................................................................ 8

Weather Delays and Closings ......................................................................................................... 8

Drills and Evacuations .................................................................................................................... 9

School Phone Use ........................................................................................................................... 9

Library Media Center/Television Studio ........................................................................................ 9

Hall/Restroom Passes .................................................................................................................... 10

Tardies to Class ............................................................................................................................... 9

Bookbags ....................................................................................................................................... 10

Computers/AUP ............................................................................................................................. 10

Lockers .......................................................................................................................................... 10

Lost and Found .............................................................................................................................. 10

Food Services ........................................................................................................................... .10-11

Physical Education/Uniforms ........................................................................................................ 10

Visitors ........................................................................................................................................... 11

ACADEMICS Academic Achievement ................................................................................................................. 11

Progress Reports ............................................................................................................................ 11

Report Cards .................................................................................................................................. 11

Honor Roll ..................................................................................................................................... 11

Marking Periods ............................................................................................................................. 11

Homework/Homework Policy ....................................................................................................... 11

Field Trips ...................................................................................................................................... 11

Band/Orchestra/Chorus ............................................................................................................ .11-12

Textbooks ...................................................................................................................................... 12

Academic Dishonesty .................................................................................................................... 12

Substitute Teachers ........................................................................................................................ 12

STUDENT CONDUCT

Student’s Rights and Responsibilities ........................................................................................... 12

Code of Conduct ............................................................................................................................ 12

Drug Detection Dog ................................................................................................................. .12-13

DRESS AND GROOMING

Purpose .......................................................................................................................................... 13

Enforcement ................................................................................................................................... 13

ELECTRONICS POLICY .......................................................................................................... .13

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BUS INFORMATION

Transportation ............................................................................................................................... 13

Bus and Parent Pick-Up Procedures .............................................................................................. 13

Activity Buses .......................................................................................................................... .13-14

Bus Discipline ................................................................................................................................ 14

SCHOOL SERVICES

Academic Assistance Program ...................................................................................................... 14

Counseling Services ....................................................................................................................... 14

Student Assistance Program .......................................................................................................... 14

Health Services ........................................................................................................................ .14-15

School Insurance ............................................................................................................................ .15

Homebound Instruction ................................................................................................................. .15

Special Education .......................................................................................................................... .15

ATHLETICS

Athletic Program ............................................................................................................................ 15

Eligibility .................................................................................................................................. 15-16

CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES

Select Chorus ................................................................................................................................. 16

Student Government ...................................................................................................................... 16

Various Clubs ................................................................................................................................ 16

PTSO

Dances ............................................................................................................................................ 16

Student Store ............................................................................................................................ …6-17

Parent Volunteers ........................................................................................................................... 17

STUDENT EDUCATIONAL RECORDS ................................................................................. 17

NOTICE OF NON-DISCRIMINATION .................................................................................. 17

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Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to the 2016 – 2017 school year. We are very excited about the future of Susquehanna

Township Middle School and Susquehanna Township School District. We have one goal here at

STMS and that is simply to be the best middle school in the state of Pennsylvania. We believe in three

guiding principles that will drive everything we will do this year at STMS. We believe that:

Every child deserves an excellent education.

Our teachers are the most important aspect of that excellent education.

Success is not an accident, success is a choice!

To help us obtain our goal, we have implemented some changes to the middle school. Two of our

biggest changes include our building-wide schedule and the introduction of our school-wide positive

behavior plan called A.R.R.O.W.S.

For our building-wide schedule, we will be utilizing a research-based model called teaming. Teaming

is a school within a school philosophy that will allow all students to be members of smaller school

communities within our large building. Each grade level will consists of two identical teams that

include a Core Class teacher, a Core Class teacher, a social studies teacher and an ELA teacher. Team

teachers will collaborate frequently to ensure that all students are receiving identical curriculum.

Students on grade-level teams will leave their teams for lunch and all encore classes such as Art,

Spanish and Music. Examples of three student schedules are found on the following page.

Yes we are starting a HANNA REVOLUTION and it is an exciting time at STMS. Your partnership

in this revolution is critical to the success of our students and our school. Please thoroughly read

through this handbook with your child, please encourage your child to do their best daily and please

become involved in STMS throughout the school year. On my end, I will encourage our teachers to

“Teach like Champions” every day. I will diligently work with staff and students to improve our

school, I will communicate frequently to our school community and I will be actively involved with

your child’s education.

I look forward to working with you and your child this school year. I am hopeful this will be a school

year full of positive challenges and incredible growth for your child.

Sincerely,

Kenneth Edwards

Kenneth Edwards

Principal

Susquehanna Township Middle School

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6th Grade Schedule

7th Grade Schedule

8th Grade Schedule

Period Time Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6

Homeroom/AE Pd. 1

7:40 – 8:25 Academic Enrichment

Academic Enrichment

Academic Enrichment

Academic Enrichment

Academic Enrichment

Academic Enrichment

Per. 2 8:28 – 9:13 Core Class Core Class Core Class Core Class Core Class Core Class



Per. 5 10:52 – 11:37 Encore Class Encore Class Encore Class Encore Class Encore Class Encore Class

Per. 6 11:40 – 12:10 Lunch Lunch Lunch Lunch Lunch Lunch





Homeroom/AE Pd. 1


Academic Enrichment

Academic Enrichment

Academic Enrichment

Academic Enrichment

Academic Enrichment










Homeroom/AE Pd. 1


Academic Enrichment

Academic Enrichment

Academic Enrichment

Academic Enrichment

Academic Enrichment

Per. 2 8:28 – 9:13 Encore Cass Encore Cass Encore Cass Encore Cass Encore Cass Encore Cass

Per. 3 9:16 – 10:01 Encore Cass Encore Cass Encore Cass Encore Cass Encore Cass Encore Cass







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STMS INFORMATION

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION Each student is required to have an

updated emergency biographical sheet on file

at STMS. It is very important that this

information is accurate and updated as

necessary. If there is a change in address or

phone number information, please contact the

guidance office to make those changes

promptly. This contact information is also used

for Blackboard Connect notifications. Each

student may have up to two (2) numbers listed

for Blackboard Connect.

ATTENDANCE / TARDINESS

Regular attendance at school is essential.

The law recognizes this fact, and all absences

must be declared either excused (legal) or

unexcused (illegal). The Susquehanna Township

School District Attendance Policies are posted on

our website at ww.hannasd.org. Your child has

also been given a hardcopy of this policy (#204),

as well as others, for you to read and acknowledge.

EDUCATIONAL TRIPS

Educational trips are approved by the

building principal if it is determined that the trip

is educationally significant for the student.

Parents must submit a written request using the

Educational Trip request form to the principal at

least seven (7) school days prior to the trip.

Approval is not automatic. Please do not make

travel plans before receiving approval. The

Educational Trip form may be found online or in

the main office. Trips may not take place during

the last two weeks (10 school days) of the school

year and requests may not exceed a total of five

(5) days in one school year. Trips requested

during the PSSA testing windows will be denied.

See the district calendar for dates. Students are

responsible for making arrangements with

teachers for completing missed work, tests, etc.

This can be done before or after the trip. Work

that is not returned may result in a loss of

credit/points.

WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL When a student is withdrawn from school

for reasons of moving or to attend another

school, the Guidance Department should be

notified two (2) days in advance. The student

must secure a withdrawal form from the

attendance secretary and on the last day of

attendance, have each teacher initial the form to

show that all obligations with each teacher are

cleared. All textbooks, library books, gym locks

and athletic uniforms must be paid for if not

returned. Information as to where the student is

moving and the name of the school district, if

possible, should be included on this form. After

all obligations are taken care of and proper

information presented to the school, all grades

and records will be released to the next school.

DISTRICT WEBSITE

www.hannasd.org

The district website is where students

and parents can find a wide range of information

about the district and STMS. Announcements,

dates, and important events will be posted to the

website. Teachers also post grade updates each

Friday. For information regarding student and

parent accounts and passwords, please contact the

STMS Guidance Office.

WEATHER DELAYS AND CLOSINGS

In the morning, when weather conditions

are such that school might be cancelled or the

start of school delayed, a Blackboard Connect

voice message will be dispatched from the

district office providing parents and students

with weather delay and closing information.

This information will also be posted on the district

website as well as provided to the local radio

and television stations. If there is a delayed start

or school is closed for the day, the announcement

will be made by the following radio and television

stations: WINK 104, WCMB, WHP (21 and 580),

WGAL, WHTM, WTPA, WITF, KOOL 94.9,

Z-107 and WHYL.

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DRILLS AND EVACUATIONS

Students participate in various drills

scheduled throughout the year. These drills

include fire, tornado, severe weather, and

emergency/non-emergency code drills.

Students are expected to participate and

cooperate during all drills as it is important to

be prepared in case of an emergency. For

evacuation-type drills, a diagram of the building

indicating the nearest exit is provided in each

room. There is also a directional sign above the

door designating the exit direction. Students are

to leave the building in an orderly manner.

Students are to WALK, NOT RUN, to the

designated exit. Students are to remain QUIET

so any instructions given may be easily heard.

The first student to reach any outside door should

hold the door open until the last person exits.

Then the door should be closed. Students should

not return to the building until notified to do so

by the teacher.

For non-evacuation drills, students must

remain QUIET to hear instructions given by

teachers and/or over the PA system.

The STMS recognizes the exercise of drills

as an important component in the safety of

students. It is important that students take drills

seriously. Failure to do so will result in

disciplinary consequences. Emergency

evacuation procedures and information may be

found on the district website. STMS will follow

all Board policies regarding emergency drills and

evacuations.

SCHOOL TELEPHONE USE 1) Classroom telephones may not be used by

students.

Students are permitted to use the Guidance

Office telephone as necessary with permission

and a pass from his or her teacher. Telephone

usage may be denied if this privilege is abused.

LIBRARY MEDIA CENTER

The Library Media Center contains a

variety of print, audio, and visual media.

Multimedia encyclopedias, ProQuest Direct,

ACCESS PA, and other online catalogs are

available for student use. Students must have a

pass in order to visit the library unless they are

with their class.

Most materials are circulated for two

weeks. A late fee of five cents per day is

charged for overdue materials. Twenty-five

cents is charged for overnight materials. Unpaid

library obligations will follow students to high

school until they are cleared.

Students may not use any computer

without a signed AUP form. Lost library materials

will result in an obligation for the cost of the

materials plus any additional late fees. If a book

is found, a refund will be given.

“THE WAVE” TELEVISION STUDIO Located in the Library Media Center, the

STMS television studio, the WAVE, is written,

produced and performed by 8th grade students and

Mrs. Lucy Richardson. The WAVE

announcements are viewed daily throughout

the building. The WAVE begins broadcasting at

7:40AM. It is important that students WATCH

the announcements each day for vital information

regarding a variety of school events, activities,

due dates, etc.

HALL/RESTROOM PASSES

Students MUST have a pass any time they

are in the halls while classes are in session.

Students are expected to follow STMS

A.R.R.O.W.S. expectations. Students who abuse

their pass privileges, and/or are not following the

A.R.R.O.W.S. expectations for hallways will be

placed on a specific HALL RESTRICTION

PASS.

TARDIES TO CLASS

STMS operates on a BELL system. Students

have three (3) minutes in between classes and are

expected to arrive to class on time. Students who

do not report to class on time will be marked tardy.

STMS A.R.R.O.W.S expectations will address

class tardies. Continued tardies will result in

additional consequences and could lead to a

HALL RESTRICTION.

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BOOK BAGS

Book bags, tote bags, and/or large purses

MUST remain in lockers throughout the school

day. Students are permitted to carry string

bags for PE uniforms only and then returned to

their locker after PE. Violations of this

expectation will result in disciplinary

consequences.

COMPUTERS

Students frequently use computers for

various class projects, papers, and research.

Parents and students MUST sign the Acceptable

Usage Policy (AUP) before students are permitted

to use any computer in the building. Please refer

to the Board policy online or the hardcopy given

to your child for your review and

acknowledgement.

LOCKERS

Students will keep their books, coat, and

other belongings in a locker. Lockers are located

in the hallways of STMS. Students will be

assigned a locker with a built-in combination

lock on the first day of school. They are not to

share this combination with anyone nor are they

to share a locker with other students. Students are

permitted to visit their lockers before and after

school and at other times designated by each

grade.

Searches of Lockers

Student lockers are owned by the

Susquehanna Township School District.

Students have no expectation of privacy in

the lockers which may be searched as

provided below.

School authorities may conduct a physical

search of a student’s locker and seize any

illegal materials. Such materials may be

used as evidence against the student in

disciplinary proceedings.

Where school authorities have a reasonable

suspicion that the locker contains materials

which pose a threat to the health, welfare

and safety of others in the school, including

drugs, alcohol, tobacco or weapons, student

lockers may be physically searched without

prior notification or opportunity to be

present.

LOST AND FOUND

Student names should be printed clearly on

all articles of clothing, (i.e. coats, hats, shoes, PE

uniforms, etc.) binders, textbook covers, lunch

totes, string bags, and anything else brought to

school. Lost items such as clothes, coats, etc.

can be found in the Lost and Found in the

cafeteria. Money, keys, or valuable items such as

phones, jewelry, etc. will be held in the main

office. Items that are found should be turned into

the main office. Unclaimed items will be donated

to charity at the end of the year. We strongly

discourage students from bringing valuables to

school. The school is not responsible for lost

items.

FOOD SERVICES

Breakfast is served in the cafeteria starting

at 7:27 AM. Students who wish to participate

must report directly to the cafeteria upon entering

the school in the morning. Breakfast will not be

served when the start of school is delayed. It is

the responsibility of the student to report to AE

by 7:40 AM.

Each lunch period is 30 minutes. A link for

Hanna Café can be found on the STSD website.

In addition to the posted menu, ala carte items are

available. Parents are encouraged to deposit

money into the child’s lunch account to prevent

missed meals. To do so, please log on to

www.myschoolbucks.com. Deposits made to the

account online will take 48 hours to register.

Although lunch credit is not extended, students

who forget lunch or money should inform

cafeteria staff and they will be provided an

alternative lunch such as cereal and fruit.

During lunch, students are expected to follow

STMS A.R.R.O.W.S. expectations.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION Physical education is a required course.

Students must wear a grey T-shirt and red shorts.

Sneakers and socks must also be worn to

participate in PE. Uniforms can be purchased

through the physical education department.

http://www.myschoolbucks.com/

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Locks are issued by the school. Students

who lose their locks will be charged $6.00.

The school is not responsible for items that are

not locked in a locker. Participation in physical education is a state

mandated requirement. Students are expected to

dress appropriately and participate in all PE

classes.

VISITORS

All visitors must enter the building through

the main office and sign in upon entering the

building. Parents interested in visiting a

classroom must make a request with a building

administrator. A minimum of 24 hours notice is

required. Proper identification will be checked

upon each visit when asking to have contact with a

student.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

ACADEMICS

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT

Student academic achievement during each

marking period will be determined by the

following system:

90 - 100 excellent

80 – 89 good

70 - 79 average

60 - 69 passing

59 or below failing

Report card percentage grades will be assigned in

all subjects. A final numerical grade will be

determined by averaging each marking period

grade.

PROGRESS REPORTS

Progress reports are given at the mid-point

of each marking period to all students. These

reports will be sent home with students. Please

check the parent portal for weekly grade updates.

Postings will be updated each Friday. Contact

teachers with any questions regarding grades.

REPORT CARDS Report cards are distributed to students at

the end of the first three marking periods

approximately seven days after the close of each

marking period.

The final report card will be mailed home.

REQUIREMENTS FOR HONOR ROLL

Distinguished Honors – A marking period GPA

of 95% or above with no grade below 70%.

Honors – A marking period GPA of 90% or

above with no grade below 70%.

END OF MARKING PERIODS Dates subject to Change

November 2nd 1st

marking pd.

January 19th 2nd

marking pd.

March 29th 3rd

marking pd.

June 8th 4th

marking pd.

Contact teachers with any questions regarding

grades.

STSD HOMEWORK

The definition of homework as used herein

means assigned school work to be completed

outside of the regular school day, without the

immediate and direct supervision of the teacher. In

an effort to provide education that will meet the

varying needs of students, it is the policy of the

Susquehanna Township School District to provide

homework that parallels direct instruction and

reflects the relevance and rigor of the curriculum.

All homework assignments should serve a sound

educational purpose and should be clearly

understood by the students, enabling them to work

independently. The amount of time in which

students spend doing homework will vary in

relation to interest and ability.

FIELD TRIPS

Field trips are organized and planned to

enhance the learning experience. Field trip

permission forms will be sent home for all trips.

Signed permission slips should be returned no

later than the designated deadline so accurate

counts for transportation and accommodations

may be made. Fees may be applied.

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BAND

Band meets from 7:40 – 8:25AM. Students

will have band based on a grade level schedule.

Students will also participate in small group

lessons on a rotating basis. Band is a graded

course. To have your child join the MS band,

please contact the band director.

ORCHESTRA Orchestra meets from 7:40 – 8:25AM.

Students will have practice based on a grade level

schedule. Students will also participate in small

group lessons on a rotating basis. Orchestra is a

graded course. To have your child join the

orchestra, please contact the orchestra director

CHORUS

Chorus meets from 7:40 – 8:25AM. Students

will have chorus based on a grade level schedule.

Chorus is a graded course. To have your child join

the chorus, please contact the choir director.

TEXTBOOKS Textbooks are a resource to supplement the

curriculum and instruction in each content area.

Students should notify teachers immediately about

books that are damaged and/or lost. Students are

responsible for each book assigned to them. Fees

will be assessed for any lost or damaged books.

ACADEMIC DISHONESTY

Cheating compromises the educational

integrity of the school program. The faculty and

administration of STMS believe that enforcing

rules against student cheating and academic

dishonesty will enhance the validity of the

educational program for every student.

Cheating constitutes, but is not limited to,

the following situations and is considered a Level

II Offense in accordance with the Student Code of

Conduct.

1. Copying

2. Plagiarism

3. Soliciting or facilitating answers

4. Any other situation involving dishonesty

in preparing academic assignments either in or

out of school.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS

STMS faculty and administration strongly

support the substitute teachers who provide

temporary coverage for our STMS staff when

needed. A substitute teacher is an important

visitor whose impression of our school will be

carried into the community. Students are

expected to follow the A.R.R.O.W.S. expectations

at all times.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

STUDENT CONDUCT

STUDENT’S RIGHTS

AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. The right to develop one’s own personality

without criticism or pressure from cliques. 2. Freedom from physical abuse and mental abuse

such as name calling, intimidation or harassment.

3. Freedom from being set apart or mocked

because of race, sex, religion, physical strength,

size, features, friendship groups, culture, age,

handicap, financial status, clothing, or classroom

performance or disability.

4. The right to privacy and freedom from

harassment in the classroom.

5. The right to be treated respectfully.

6. The right to an education, which means that

students are free to learn and teachers are free to

teach with the expectation of appropriate

behavior.

7. The right to have one’s personal and school

property respected as a part of human rights. Our

school community should be a safe place for

property as well as people.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

Please refer to the Student Code of Conduct posted

on the district’s website and given to your child in

hardcopy for your review.

DRUG DETECTION DOG

The Susquehanna Township Board of

School Directors has approved a policy which

permits the use of drug detection dogs to enforce

the drug policy. The drug detection dogs shall be

permitted to make investigations of corridors,

lockers, desks, unoccupied cars, unloaded school

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buses, and other real estate of the School

District and personal property located thereon.

Use of drug detection dogs shall be at the

discretion of the School District at unannounced

times for the purpose of enforcing STSD drug

policy and other disciplinary policies.

DRESS AND GROOMING

Purpose

The Board recognizes that each student’s

mode of dress and grooming is a manifestation of

personal style and individual preference. The

Board also recognizes that some forms of dress are

not appropriate or create a disruption or distraction

to the learning environment. Please refer to policy

#221 posted on the district’s website and given to

your child in hardcopy for your review.

Enforcement

Appropriate disciplinary actions for violations

shall include the following:

First Offense:

1) Students shall be informed that they have

violated the policy.

2) They shall be given the opportunity to change

into acceptable clothing available at school or by

calling a parent/guardian to bring in acceptable

clothing.

Second Offense:

1) A second infraction of the policy shall be

considered as defiance.

2) In addition to the disciplinary actions available

for the first offense, a parent/guardian contact will

be initiated.

Subsequent Offenses:

1) Subsequent infractions of the policy shall be

considered a violation of the Student Code of

Conduct and appropriate consequences will be

implemented.

ELECTRONICS POLICY

Although the possession of electronic

communication/storage devices by students on

school property is not prohibited, possession of

electronic devices is subject to the terms and

conditions of this policy:

1) For the purpose of this policy, electronic

device is defined as any instrument capable of

capturing, storing, displaying and/or transmitting

information including text, audio, and/or video.

2) During school hours, ALL electronic devices

will be turned off and stored securely in student

lockers.

3) Students who improperly store or use an

electronic device will be subject to

consequences.

4) After the final bell of the normal school

dismissal time, students may use electronic

devices in the building EXCEPT during:

a. Detention

b. AAP

c. Any co-curricular activity at the

discretion of the supervisor or coach.

5) STMS is not responsible for lost or stolen

electronic items that are brought to school.

BUS INFORMATION

TRANSPORTATION

The bus schedule for Middle School is sent

to each student during August. Generally,

students will be picked up between 6:30 and 7:20

AM and arrive at STMS around 7:25 AM. Please

note, students who are dropped off early will not

be able to enter the building before 7:27 AM. All

buses unload in the front of the building.

BUS AND PARENT PICK-UP

PROCEDURES

Parents/guardians who have not made prior

arrangements, but wish to pick up a student after

dismissal instead of having them ride the bus,

may call the main office prior to dismissal. Those

students will be notified to report to the back of

the building. Please adhere to the parking signs in

the parent pickup area. Parents are reminded not to

park in the front circle.

Parents, guardians and other adults are not

permitted to board busses, per PA Statute 18.

Violation of this statute constitutes a 3rd degree

misdemeanor.

ACTIVITY BUSES Activity buses are provided daily for those

students who stay after school for sports (athletes

only) or other supervised activities. These buses

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depart at 4:30 PM and 5:15 PM. Students who

attend athletic events as spectators must leave

STMS at dismissal and return at the start of the

event/activity. They are not permitted to ride

activity buses home.

BUS DISCIPLINE

Riding the school bus is a privilege that can

be revoked due to unacceptable behavior. All

A.R.R.O.W.S expectations will be posted on all

buses. Students must follow the A.R.R.O.W.S

expectations for bus conduct. All buses are

equipped with cameras that record student

behavior while on the bus. Each student is

permitted to ride only their assigned bus to and

from school. Riding a different bus is strictly

prohibited. Only the bus driver may grant

permission to leave the bus. Students who do not

comply with the bus rules may be assigned a

specific seat on the bus.

STUDENT SERVICES

ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

The Academic Assistance Program provides

students with the opportunity to receive tutoring in

most major subject areas on Tuesdays and

Thursdays after regular school hours. Staff

members serve as tutors. Sessions run from 2:37

PM to 4:15PM, and transportation is provided at

4:30 PM to those students who elect to stay for

service; however, a signed permission form

(available through the Guidance Department) is

required.

SCHOOL COUNSELING SERVICES

Counseling services are available to all

students in grades 6, 7 and 8. We have two

formally trained, professional school counselors

at STMS. The counselors provide counseling

services to all students both individually, in

groups, as well as school wide instruction

through classroom instruction and assemblies.

These services are designed to address the

academic, personal/social, and college/career

readiness needs of students. Counselors design

and coordinate a variety of special programs

within the school.

An important part of the school counselor’s

role is consultation. Counselors may consult with

parents, faculty, other school staff, and

community agencies in order to best meet the

individual needs of all students.

Counseling services are designed to help all

students understand themselves and their

relationships with others, and assume personal

responsibility for their own progress. The

counselors utilize a variety of techniques to

accomplish these goals and meet the needs of all

students.

STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SAP)

The Student Assistance Program works to

identify and help students with drug and alcohol

problems and mental health concerns. Members of

the team include the principal, counselors, school

nurse, teachers and community liaisons. For more

information regarding SAP, please contact the

guidance department.

HEALTH SERVICES A primary responsibility of the school is

the protection and health of each student. A

registered nurse is available at school to address

health issues.

The School Health Law requires medical

examinations for students in grade 6. A dental

examination is required for grade 7 students. It

is recommended that these examinations be done

by your family dentist or physician, since he/she

can best evaluate your child’s medical or dental

health.

School Immunization Law requires that all

students be properly immunized in accordance

with state law and regulations, unless specifically

exempt for medical, religious, or philosophical

reasons. This requires all incoming 7th graders to

have one dose of tetanus and diphtheria toxoid

and acellular pertussis vaccine (Tdap) and one

does of meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MCV).

Any student who does not have written

documentation of being properly immunized and

does not have a current medical, religious, or

philosophical exemption on file with the school

nurse may be excluded from school.

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State mandated screening programs for all

grades such as height/weight measurement, testing

for vision and hearing, and checking for scoliosis

(curvature of the spine) are procedures used to

identify those students who need further attention.

Parents of students who fail these tests will be

notified of the results.

In case a student is injured or becomes ill in

school, they will be assessed and cared for by the

school nurse. For illnesses or injuries that are

serious or potentially life-threatening the school

will activate EMS and notify the parent

immediately. Students who have been diagnosed

by a health care provider or are suspected of having

a communicable illness by the school nurse may be

excluded from school until cleared by a health care

provider or considered no longer communicable by

the school nurse. Generally, students will be asked

not to return to school for 24 hours following the

discontinuation of medications in cases of fever,

vomiting, or diarrhea.

Medication Guidelines STSD recognizes the problems associated

with the misuse of drugs and concerns with

product tampering and school liability. Therefore

any medication brought to or consumed at school

by students is considered a serious matter. This

policy is designed to protect students and to

allow provisions for medical care while

attending classes. It covers non-prescription as

well as prescription drugs.

Medications will be administered by a nurse

during school hours only when it is not feasible to

administer the mediation outside of school hours.

Medications must be accompanied by an order

from a licensed prescriber and written parental

consent that is updated each school year.

All medications should be delivered to, and

picked up from, the nurse’s office by a

parent/guardian or designated adult. The only

exception is for students who have a self-

carry/self-administer order for an asthma inhaler

or epinephrine auto injector. Students in

possession of any prescribed or over the counter

medication will be found in violation of policy

#227. For more detailed information please refer

to our medications policy #210 on the district

website.

SCHOOL INSURANCE

STSD is not responsible for medical

expenses caused by injuries which occur on school

property and does not carry insurance which would

cover such expenses. STSD does offer an

insurance policy to students at a special school

rate. This is a service to students and is not

mandatory. This policy covers any accident while

on the way between home and school, while in the

school building or on school grounds, and as a

participant in a school-sponsored activity. Parents

should review the brochure and student accident

insurance policy carefully for coverage and

exclusion information.

HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION If a student is out of school due to illness or

injury for and will be out of school more than two

weeks, parents can arrange to have their student

taught at home with no expense to them by

contacting a school counselor.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Please refer to the District calendar for

information regarding special education services.

MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETICS

ATHLETIC PROGRAMS STMS offers the following interscholastic

sports for 7th and 8th graders – soccer, cross

country, field hockey, football, boys and girls

basketball, wrestling, and boys and girls track.

ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY

To receive automatic academic eligibility

to participate in athletics sponsored by STSD,

students must fail no more than one core class on

their previous report card.

The coaches and staff of S T M S require

that all athletes represent themselves according to

the A.R.R.O.W.S expectations on and off the

field. With that in mind, the athletic staff views

their players’ academic performance just as

important as their athletic performance. Students

are evaluated on a weekly basis for each class in

which they are enrolled.

A student is ineligible for that week if he

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or she is failing two or more subjects or failed to

meet probationary requirements for AAP.

Ineligible students may practice with the team at

the coach’s discretion, but are not eligible to play

or compete and must attend AAP for the week of

ineligibility.

A student is on probation for that week if

they are failing one class. Students on probation

may practice and compete. Students on

probation should attend AAP if possible. If they

continue to fail the same subject for a second

week, they must attend AAP to remain eligible.

MIDDLE SCHOOL CLUBS AND

ACT IVITIES

SELECT CHORUS

Students in 7th and

8th

grade chorus are

eligible to try out for STMS Select Chorus.

Select Chorus students participate in the Dauphin

County Chorus, various performance field trips

to represent STMS in competitions, and perform

in school concerts.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

The Student Government is the students’

voice at STMS. Its purpose is:

1. To encourage student interest through

activities which are aimed at creating school

spirit and pride

2. To improve school conditions and community

relations through an increased democratic

sense of respect for the rights and property of

others

3. To create friendly cooperation between the

students and the faculty

MIDDLE SCHOOL CLUBS

Throughout the year, students have the

opportunity to participate in a variety of clubs

that take place after school. These clubs may

include chess club, art club, drama club,

MathCounts, exercise and fitness club,

intramurals, and yearbook.

Clubs are organized and supervised by

teachers and staff. Bus transportation is provided

through the late bus pick up 4:30 PM at STMS.

Clubs run from after school until 4:15PM.

Students will be required to submit a permission

slip to attend the club and a small fee may be

required depending on the club/activity.

MIDDLE SCHOOL PTSO

INFORMATION

PARENT-TEACHER-STUDENT

ORGANIZATION (PTSO) STMS has an active PTSO whose objectives

are to support the school and to act as a forum

for communication among parents, teachers,

students, and administrators. The PTSO sponsors

dances, the annual 8th grade party, and a variety

of student activities.

The PTSO is headed by a board of officers

and committee chairpersons who meet on the

third Tuesday of each month to coordinate

activities. All parents are welcome and

encouraged to attend the monthly meetings.

PTSO SPONSORED DANCES

PTSO organizes dances for STMS 3-4 times

a year. All school rules and dress code apply at

dances. The dances are for STMS students only.

Students from other schools are not permitted to

attend STMS dances.

Students must be picked up by a parent

promptly at the end of the dance. Failure to do so

may result in a student missing the next dance.

Students are not permitted to walk home and a

parent must come in to pick up their child.

Students will not be permitted to leave the

building without a parent or guardian. Please refer

to the district calendar for dance dates. Students

will be reminded of the dates and times of the

dances on the WAVE announcements.

The privilege of attending school dances and

events may be revoked due to discipline.

STUDENT STORE The student store is sponsored by the PTSO

and is open on Tuesdays during lunches. Items

usually found in the student store include:

pencils, pens, paper, book covers, erasers,

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compasses, protractors, and many more useful

and needed items. This store is located in the

cafeteria.

PARENT VOLUNTEERS STMS is always looking for good

volunteers. Volunteers are required by PA law to

obtain all necessary clearances. Please contact the

district office for more information regarding

volunteering at STMS (717) 657-5100.

STUDENT EDUCATIONAL

RECORDS

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act

(FERPA) pertains to all STSD parents and any

student over eighteen years of age (“eligible

student”). All health information created and

maintained by the STSD and its agents is also

considered part of the student’s educational

record, and therefore protected by FERPA as well

as HIPPA. FERPA provides certain rights with

respect to a student’s educational records. They

are:

1. The right to inspect and review the student’s

educational records within 45 days of the date the

District receives a request for access.

2. The right to request the amendment of the

student’s education records that the parent or

eligible student believes to be inaccurate or

misleading.

3. The right to consent to disclosures of

personally identifiable information contained in

the student’s education records, except to the

extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without

consent. One exception that is authorized by

FERPA permits disclosure without consent to

school officials with legitimate educational

interest.

4. The right to file a complaint with the United

States Department of Education concerning

alleged failures by the district to comply with the

requirements of FERPA.

NOTICE OF

NON-DISCRIMINATION

Susquehanna Township School District is

an equal rights and opportunity public education

school district and will not discriminate on the

basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex,

sexual orientation, gender identity, disability,

age, religion, marital status, or genetic

information in its activities, educational and

vocational programs (providing equal access to

Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups) or

employment practices as required by Title VII of

the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended, Title IX

of the 1972 Educational Amendments, Section

504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the

Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 as

amended, the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act

of 1955 as amended, and the Genetic Information

Act of 2008. For information regarding civil

rights or grievance procedures, contact Kathy J.

McCool, Equal Rights and Opportunity

Coordinator, at Susquehanna Township School

District, 2579 Interstate Drive, Harrisburg,

Pennsylvania 17110, Phone: 717-657-5100, ext.

50136.

Documents

Susquehanna Township Middle School...1 Susquehanna Township Middle School Student Handbook Phone # - 657-5125 Fax # - 657-9841 MS Contact Information DO Contact Information, 657-5100