Mr. Robert Watson, Chairman

Mrs. Patricia Archambault, Mrs. June Guglielmi, Mr. Ernest Marcure,

Dr. Paul R. Lescault Mrs. Kristen Stringfellow

Superintendent of Schools Assistant Superintendent for Instruction and Curriculum

Dr. Lawrence Filippelli                            Mr. David Sweet
Principal                                                 Assistant Principal
Scituate Middle School                         Scituate Middle/High School

Scituate Middle School is committed to producing life-long learners by providing all students an academically challenging, integrated curriculum in partnership with the community within a safe and respectful learning environment while supporting their unique educational, physical, emotional, and social needs.

We believe that:

• Education is a shared responsibility of home, school, and community.
• Schools are safe, secure, nurturing learning environments.
• Education adds to the quality of life.
• We, as a community are obligated to fully fund education.
• Education is provided at a level appropriate for each student.
• Schools prepare students to be creative thinkers, problem solvers, and effective communicators.
• All students have unique talents and abilities and can learn.
• Schools challenge students to be responsible citizens, productive workers, and life-long learners in a technological, changing global society.
• Students learn in different ways.
• All students are provided a common core of learning.
• All interactions within the educational community are conducted with dignity and mutual respect.

*Team Leader

Reading: Dorothy Williston – C30A

Guidance:     Kathlyn Coleman- Gr 6     Kristin VanOrden-Albertella – Gr 7,8

Agriculture:               Art:                     Computer:            Foreign Language 
Stacy Perry            Erica Cioe          Maryann Ragno      Kristen Archambault
                         Wendy Feldman        Patricia Frost

The function of the Guidance Department is to provide the student with knowledge about himself as a unique individual, realize his personal needs, and provide assistance for attaining educational and vocational goals. All of your teachers are vitally interested in your personal success and the Guidance Department works closely with them in your behalf.

The guidance program includes group guidance classes, group counseling and individual counseling. A student may request a conference with a guidance counselor by simply notifying the counselor who will arrange a suitable time for a meeting. Students are also encouraged to advise their parents that the guidance office is always ready to confer with them to resolve any school problem or to furnish any information they may request.

Grade 6 - Grade 7  - Grade 8

Language Arts

English 

Math

Social Studies 

Science

Family and Consumer Science 

Art

Industrial Technology 

Music 

Natural Resources

Environmental Conservation

Physical Education

Health 

Music

Keyboarding 

Introduction to Foreign Language

Agriculture 

Computer Literacy 

Computer Applications

The Library/Media center is open each school day from 7:40 AM until 3:25 PM with the exception

of days when there are no late buses. On these days, the library is closed at the end of the school day.

To use the library during study periods, students sign up in the library between 7:40 and 10:50. This is a commitment for the whole period, Lateness and "cut" rules apply and students are expected to report with all materials and books needed for the period. Books and other circulating materials are borrowed for a loan period of 14 to 20 days. All due dates are Wednesdays. Students borrow books by signing their names and homeroom numbers, and are responsible for all materials signed out in their names.

There are no fines for overdue books, but lost or damaged books and materials must be paid for according to the lost/damaged book policy approved by the school committee. Reference books and periodicals (magazines), as well as certain other designated materials are used in the library only or in the classroom/study for the hour. Students using the library are expected to work quietly and respect the rights of fellow students by prompt return of materials needed by others. Library privileges will be withheld from students who do not follow the above rules and acceptable standards of good manners and behavior associated with the library.

This library, as a member of RILINET, can obtain books, periodicals, etc. from other member libraries in RI. This privilege gives students access to the statewide library resources. To obtain materials not held by the school library, students can make out a library loan request for such materials.

Finally, students needing assistance or instruction in the use of the library should ask for help. The librarian or aides are almost always available to give assistance with your library-centered assignments or in your search for recreational and research materials.

To achieve HIGH HONORS, a student must attain a Grade Point Average of 3.7 or higher with no grades of D and/or F. Additionally, there can be no grade of C in Mathematics, Science, English or Social Studies; no more than one C in other required courses; and no Poor Conduct remark.

To achieve HONORS, a student must attain a Grade Point Average of 3.0 or higher with no grades of D and /or F. Additionally, there can be no grade of C in Mathematics, Science, English or Social Studies; no more than one C in other required courses; and no Poor Conduct remark . The definition of being honorable is to have character, principles, honesty, and be worthy of admiration. We wish to honor those who have distinguished themselves through high achievement and deeds. These standards are attainable and worthy of the term Honor Roll. The grading system for the middle school is as follows:

A+ 97-100 A 93-96 A- 90-92

B+ 87-89 B 83-86 B- 80-82

C+ 77-79 C 73-76 C- 72-70

D 65-69 F Below 65 (Students having a final grade of F will fail the course.)

Eighth grade students are eligible for induction into the National Junior Honor Society. To be considered for induction, students must have attained a grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.5 in the areas of English, math, science, and social studies. Students will be evaluated on their work in grade 7 and the first two marking quarters of grade 8. Students must complete a minimum of 5 hours of community service during grades 7 and 8, and the supervisor must document those hours. Students will also be evaluated on the basis of character and leadership.

Character is evaluated on the following definition: The student of character demonstrates the highest standards of honesty and reliability. He/she shows courtesy and concern for others and upholds school regulations.

Classroom, school, and peer leadership are considered for the leadership qualification. Classroom leadership is defined as positively influencing others to do their best and going beyond what is expected. School leadership is based on participation in extra curricular activities. A student must have documentation by the appropriate advisor that he/she has shown "active" participation in at least one extra curricular school or community activity (not a class).

The Faculty Selection Committee considers it to be the responsibility of the individual student to be aware of his/her GPA, to perform service required, and to maintain the highest standards of leadership. Additionally, each student must complete the selection packet in accordance with the standards in order to be considered for induction.

The following Promotion/Retention Policy is based on the recognition that all children can and must learn, and that many children require a variety of educational and social services if that goal is to be reached.

1. Through careful monitoring and weekly team meetings, teachers are aware of students having academic difficulty.
2. At-risk students will given additional learning time for priority objectives. This time may be spent with teachers during department nights, peer tutoring, or in-class assistance.
3. Students, who after availing themselves of these services for an entire quarter are still unable to demonstrate competency in the subject areas, may be referred for full diagnostic evaluation by the multi-disciplinary team.
4. Based on the findings of the multi-disciplinary team, special placement or other special services may be recommended.
5. For students who still fail to show competency in the subject area, achieving a 65 or higher average for the year, the following will apply.

a. Any student who fails 2 subjects(*) will be required to attend summer school or be tutored for

30 hours, pass at least one subject (*), and a final examination, or repeat the grade.

b. Any student who fails three subjects for the year will repeat the grade

* Subjects are defined as: Mathematics, English, Science and Social Studies.

Scituate Middle School will be piloting an inclusion program on a limited basis for students with special needs. Inclusion is a term which expresses commitment to educate each child, to the maximum extent appropriate, in the school and classroom he or she would otherwise attend. It involves bringing the support services to the child (rather than moving the child to the services) and requires that the child’s individual goals will be met in the classroom.

Progress reports are issued at mid-quarter prior to report card days. These reports are issued to advise students and parents that the school work is not up to the standard expected of the student and to serve as encouragement for the student to make a greater effort in his or her studies. Progress reports will be mailed home

There are four marking periods during the school year. The pupils will take their cards home the day they are issued. Parents are to keep one copy and are asked to sign and return the other copy with their youngster to the homeroom teacher on the following morning. The final report card will be mailed home at the end of June.

Participation in athletics and extracurricular activities is a privilege and educational opportunity.

To be eligible to participate in athletics and extracurricular activities at Scituate Middle School, students are expected to maintain appropriate behavior, citizenship, and acceptable academic standards.

Eligibility to participate in athletics and/or extracurricular activities in any given marking quarter will be determined by grades received in the proceeding marking quarter. A student will be allowed to fail one course and must maintain an overall grade point average of 1.7 (C-). Any student who fails any two courses will be ineligible to participate in athletics and extracurricular activities. Activities to which this policy applies are as follows: Interscholastic Athletics, Yearbook Staff, Student Council Officers/ Members, Cheerleaders, All State Musicians, and Drama Club.

The Rhode Island Interscholastic League Rules and Regulations and/or Scituate School Committee shall govern interscholastic athletics. In cases where the standards set by one agency exceed those by the other, then the highest standard will be in effect. Situations that are not addressed by the above guidelines may arise. Such situations may be appealed to a review committee which includes the superintendent, principal and respective advisor or coach. The appeal must be made within one week of the student receiving his/her report card. Middle school students are subject to the requirements that pertain to interscholastic participation.

All students are urged to try some form of athletics to realize the maximum education benefit available at Scituate Middle School. The challenge and intensity of effort of athletic competition, whether intramural or interscholastic, will provide experiences that will undoubtedly help you in preparation for adult life in our society. Middle school students can participate in the following programs:

BOYS – Basketball, Baseball, and Soccer; GIRLS – Basketball, Softball, and Soccer

SPORTSMANSHIP POLICY

Recognizing the importance of good sportsmanship on the part of all athletics, coaches and spectators, the Scituate School Committee endorses the sportsmanship policy adopted by the Rhode Island Interscholastic League. This policy addresses the conduct of all athletes’ coaches and spectators at middle school athletic events. In accordance with this policy, each Scituate coach will receive a copy of the RI Interscholastic League manual. All athletes, cheerleaders, and parents will receive a letter from the Director of Athletics addressing the importance of sportsmanship and their role in assuring that all participants, including opposing teams and fans, and officials, experience a positive atmosphere at Scituate contests. Any student or coach ejected from a game will meet with the Director of Athletics and the Principal to discuss the nature of the ejection and to address what will be done to ensure that a repeat performance will not occur. The ejected person will fill out a questionnaire issued by the League and have it approved by the Director of Athletics and the Principal, to be returned to the league office before they can participate in another contest. League rules state that an ejected person must sit out the next league contest and they cannot be anywhere near the game. If a player or coach is ejected a second time, they will be suspended for the rest of the season and be placed on probation by the Scituate Athletic Department.

Spectators involved in any type of taunting, baiting, harassment, fighting or derogatory comments towards players, coaches, officials, cheerleaders or other fans will be subjected to immediate removal from the contest. Their attendance at further contests may be revoked. It is the goal of all involved in Scituate athletics that all participants have a positive and pleasurable experience when attending Scituate athletic games.

Students may use book bags and backpacks to transport materials to and from school. Once arriving at school, book bags and backpacks are to be stored in lockers. Students may not use their book bags or backpacks during the school day to carry materials to and from classes. These items do present a safety issue in corridors and classrooms. The only exception to use of book bags and backpacks during the school day is when a student has physical education. Students may use these items to carry gym clothing, towels, and toiletries to and from physical education.

The Middle School Student Council (Mr. Sanzen, adviser) sponsors our school dances. Only Scituate Middle School students may attend. Tickets are sold ahead of time during the week of the dance during lunch. No tickets are sold at the door. Students must present a completed official dance permission form in order to be admitted to the dance. If students are absent from school the day of the dance, they may not attend. Students who have been referred for disciplinary reasons or who have been suspended during the week prior to the dance are not eligible to attend the dance. Dances are held from 7 – 9:30 PM.

Students are expected to be in their designated homeroom by 7:48 AM. At 7:45 the bell will ring to alert students to proceed to their respective homerooms. The 7:48 bell indicates the start of homeroom. Any student arriving after this bell is considered tardy to school unexcused. Attendance will be taken and morning announcements will follow the 7:48 AM bell. Valuable school related information is given at this time. During homeroom, students will be requested to stand for a moment of silence and to pledge to the flag. Students are expected to turn in their excused absence notes to their homeroom teachers.

Students will be assigned corridor lockers by their homeroom teachers. Each student is to use the locker to which he/she is assigned. Sharing lockers with other students is not permitted. Lockers are provided for the storage of books and coats during the school day. Lockers should be locked at all times. The lockers are school property and may be opened by the administration for emergencies or when there exists reasonable suspicion for a search of the contents, consistent with school committee policy. Students are responsible for the condition of the locker assigned to them and the cleanliness of the contents. The cost of repair or repainting locker damage caused by writing on painted surfaces, affixing non-removable stickers, or bending metal parts will be charged to the student. Students are financially responsible for any articles or books lost or stolen from their lockers. Any matter pertaining to lockers must be reported to the Principal’s Office. Physical Education teachers will issue locks for gym lockers. No personal locks are permitted on these lockers. Students will be held financially responsible for the loss of locks.

The Lost and Found Department is located in both the high school office and the middle school office. Lost articles may be claimed at each of these locations during the student’s free time. Permission to look through articles must be granted from office personnel.

All students are issued copies of the textbooks for the courses in which they are enrolled. Each teacher issuing books will keep a class record of the books issued, listing: 1) name of student to whom the book was issued; 2) book title; 3) book identification number; 4) condition – (a) New (b) Good (c) Fair (d) Poor. Students are responsible for preserving the condition of all books issued to them by the school, and therefore are required to cover their books, if the books leave the classroom. Principals and teachers are responsible for enforcement of this regulation. Students will be held responsible for all books issued to them and shall return them in essentially the same condition. The student will be charged for that decline in value that is 50% of purchase price. Price guides are established as follows: New: 100%, Good: 75%, Fair: 50%, Poor: 25%. Book values based on current price and condition of the book will be determined and listed in advance by the Department Chairman or Principal. Students and/or parents will be notified of book values at the time that the item is issued, if requested. Students will not be issued another book until payment for the lost book has been received. Notices will be sent to parents stating what has been lost or damaged by their child and the amount due. Copies of this policy should be enclosed with the notice. Based on the condition of the book, a refund will be issued to the student if the original book is found and returned. Students may be issued materials and equipment in some specialized courses in addition to the textbook. The same procedures will be followed regarding lost or damaged materials and equipment as for textbooks. All monies collected will be given to the Principal or his/her designee and a receipt issued. Monies collected will be deposited in a book-equipment replacement fund account. Only the replacement of books and equipment will be bought with this fund with the approval or the Superintendent’s office. Any funds unspent as of July 1^st of each year will be used to offset that part of the budget used to purchase new books and equipment.

The use of electronic devices such as laser pointers, radios, walk-mans, games, et cetera is not permitted during the school day. Use or possession of said devices would result in confiscation. Also, Rhode Island General Law 16-21. 2-11 prohibits any student in any secondary or elementary school from carrying, possessing or using a paging device of any kind on school property (including cell phones), except with the written consent of the principal of the school in which the student is enrolled. The penalty for violation of this law shall be the confiscation of said device.

Any student who becomes ill or has an accident while in school should have this fact reported to the nurse or office immediately. If the injury or illness prevents the student from notifying the nurse, a fellow student or teacher should assume this responsibility. When teachers think that a student should be sent to the Medical Room, a fellow student should be asked to serve as an escort. If the student appears too ill to leave the classroom, the Nurse will be called to the classroom.

Any student who must take medication during the school day (pills, capsules, liquids, etc.) is required to have a written authorization from a physician and a permission slip from the parent addressed to the SCHOOL NURSE. The nurse will keep this medication under lock and will arrange for the student to take it at the proper time. If possible, an attempt will be made to take medication at passing time so as not to interrupt class time. NO MEDICATION OF ANY TYPE WILL BE CARRIED BY A STUDENT ON HIS OR HER PERSON, POCKETBOOK, OR LOCKER. THIS INCLUDES NONPRESCRIPTION DRUGS SUCH AS ASPIRIN, COUGH SYRUP, AND DRUGS FOR DYSMENNORRHEA, ETC. MEDICATION MUST BE BROUGHT TO SCHOOL IN A CONTAINER APPROPRIATELY LABLED BY THE PHYSICIAN OR PHARMACY.

Late buses are provided for students who stay after school for approved activities. Students must wait in the high school cafeteria until late buses arrive. Three late buses depart from the school between 3:30 and 4:00. Late buses are scheduled for every school day except Friday. Students must present a Late Bus Pass to the bus driver when taking a late bus. Late Bus passes are to be given by the teacher for whom the student stays.

Our school is fortunate in having capable people to help us whenever our regular teachers are absent. A substitute teacher is an important guest who is to be treated as such. A substitute teacher has the same authority in the classroom as any teacher. Let us be certain to be as polite, helpful, and considerate as you would be to your regular teacher.

Telephones in the administration office are business phones and should not be used by pupils unless an emergency exists. Forgotten work and materials do not constitute an emergency. A public pay phone is located in the High School lobby. If it is necessary to use the phone during class time, permission must be given by a teacher and pass for the purpose.

Each teacher conducts a Department Night each week from 2:20 to 3:20. The purposes of Department Nights are as follows:

1. To provide an opportunity for students to obtain additional help in class work which they have been unable to master in the regular class time;
2. To provide an opportunity for students who have been absent to make up lost work and examinations;
3. To encourage pupils to accept responsibility of completing their tasks by giving them a definite schedule for meeting with teachers.

Students should look upon Department Nights as an opportunity extended to them to help with their school work. Under no circumstances should Department Night be regarded as punishment. Students are encouraged to attend voluntarily. Students who need extra help will be requested to stay by their teachers.

Students are not to be in the hallways and corridors during the time that classes are in session unless they have an official pass or face disciplinary action. No student will be allowed to leave class during the last 15 minutes of class.

Good manners should prevail in the cafeteria at all times. Accepted standards of cleanliness courtesy and conduct are expected during lunch period. All food is to be eaten in the cafeteria. Paper items should be disposed of in the provided trash barrels. Trays should be returned to the designated areas and tables and floor area should be kept absolutely clean. Teachers are assigned for cafeteria supervision and are in charge of maintaining good student conduct during lunch. Students are not to leave the cafeteria area without permission. Loitering in the restrooms during lunchtime will subject a student to disciplinary action.

Honesty, fairness and student integrity should prevail in any testing program conducted at Scituate Middle School. Any form of student communication, either oral or written, including material illegally provided, solicited or procured (notes relating or not relating to the test) shall constitute a violation of this policy. Violations of the test taking policy will be handled on an individual basis. Students will receive a penalty from the teacher or

:

1. A grade of zero on the test with no makeup;
2. A letter sent home to the parent indicating the events of the incident.

Repeated cases of violations will be referred to the Principal and a conference will be arranged to include the teacher, student, parent, and the Principal.

Good discipline in the school is extremely important to the school program. For without good discipline, the school cannot discharge its responsibility in the development of good citizenship. Without good discipline, students cannot realize their greatest opportunities for growth and learning.

The Scituate School Committee recognizes the right of a student to receive an education. Our school exists for this purpose. In recognition of this basic right of students, it becomes the responsibility of the school authorities to provide and maintain a suitable environment for learning. The school committee

expects that the school’s administration will do everything in its power to maintain and facilitate the educational program so that the individual needs of each student are met to the greatest possible degree. It becomes the responsibility of each student to conduct himself in such a way to promote a positive and safe learning environment for him and others.

Standards of good citizenship are expected of all students. Individual conduct shall reflect consideration for the rights of others; respect for persons and property; and conform to school rules and regulations so to maintain a proper school environment.

Detention will be held each week, Tuesday through Thursday from 2:20 P.M. to 3:30 P.M. in announced rooms. Students should arrive at detention prepared with books, coats, etc. for dismissal to late buses. The detention supervisor will issue late bus passes. At dismissal, students are to report directly to the high school cafeteria Tardiness to Detention (between 2:20 PM – 2:25 PM):

1^st Offense – an additional day of detention assigned

2^nd Offense – 1 day in-school suspension

3^rd Offense – 2 days in-school suspension

Subsequent offenses will result in out-of-school suspension and a parent conference.

Student behavior during detention is expected to be exemplary. Students will not be allowed to leave detention for any reason. All school rules will apply to detention. Students violating rules during detention will be disciplined according to the following:

1^st Offense - additional day of detention assigned

2^nd Offense* - 1 day out of school suspension with parent conference

*(student dismissal from detention to office)

Subsequent offenses will result in additional days of out-of-school suspension assigned.

Cutting detention (absent without permission or tardy after 2:25 PM)

1^st Offense - 2 additional hours of detention

2^nd Offense - 1 day in-school suspension with parent conference.

Subsequent offenses will result in additional days of out-of-school suspension assigned.

Students, upon arrival to school on their respective buses or by motor vehicle, are to report to either the library (grade 8) or to the middle school cafeteria (grades 6 & 7) where they are to wait until dismissed to homerooms at 7:40 AM. Students are not to loiter in the high school, parking lots, nor leave school grounds once they have arrived. Students are to be in their homerooms by 7:48 AM. Students arriving to homeroom or school after this time will be recorded as tardy. Students who arrive after the completion of homeroom must report to the Office of the Principal.

Students will be allowed three unexcused tardiness per semester. Parents will be notified by letter following the 3^rd tardiness. Every third offense will have the following consequence:

1. 4^th and 7^th offense: 1 hour detention
2. 10^th offense: 3 hours of detention
3. Additional tardies will be dealt with through detention and/or in-school suspension.

Parental notes for tardiness will be accepted only in emergency or unusual cases. Such cases include a medical appointment, attendance at a funeral, or any other reason deemed legitimate by the school office.

When a student is absent from school, he/she is required to bring in a note signed by a parent stating the dates absent and the reason for the absence. Examples of valid reasons for absence are illness, religious holidays, and funerals. This note is to be given to the student’s homeroom teacher within 48 hours of the student’s return to school. Any unexcused absence from school (truancy) will subject the student to the penalties outlined below. Excessive absences from school and/or class seriously effect student learning and are a drain of the resources of the teachers and school administration.

Students absent from school without parental permission and a valid excuse will be considered truant. Truancy will be handled in the following manner.

1. 1^st offense: six (6) hours of after school detention – one for each class period missed
2. 2^nd offense: one (1) day of in-school suspension combined with six (6) hours of after school

detention

3. 3^rd offense: two (2) days of in-school suspension combined with six (6) hours of after school detention; or out of school suspension

If a student needs to leave school early, the student must present a note requesting permission signed by a parent or guardian. This note must contain the date and time of dismissal, reason for dismissal, and a telephone number for verification. Students will only be released to adults listed on file at school as emergency contacts. Adults must come into the school office to pick up students for early dismissal. Students will be excused early for only valid reasons, which include medical appointments and funerals. No dismissals will be honored over the telephone. At no time is a student to leave school grounds without prior administration approval. Leaving school without permission will result in disciplinary action, which can include suspension.

Students dismissed early on the day they are to participate in any school activity, athletics, concerts, et cetera, must return to school by 1:30 PM in order to be eligible for participation. Students are to report to the Principal’s Office upon returning to school.

Attendance to all assigned classes, including lunch and study halls, is mandatory. Unauthorized absence from class (class cutting) will result in disciplinary action by administration. Students who cut class will be disciplined as follows: Students will receive a zero for work missed because of cutting class and

1. 1^st offense: three (3) hours of after school detention
2. 2^nd offense: four hours of after school detention
3. 3^rd offense: in-school suspension combined with four hours of after school detention; or out of school suspension

Students have five minutes to travel from one class to the next. Students are expected to proceed directly from one class to the next. The five-minute passing time is not free time for students to use as they please. Teachers will monitor student tardiness to class. Students who have been tardy to class more than three times in a semester will be referred to the Principal’s office for disciplinary action. Those students who chronically arrive late to class subject themselves to disciplinary action that will include in-school suspension, or out of school suspension. Every third offense will have a consequence.

1. 4^th and 7^th offense: one (1) hour of after school detention
2. 10^th offense: three (3) hours of after school detention; subsequent offenses will result in additional

disciplinary action which may include suspension

Emergency evacuation drills are held regularly throughout the year. At the sound of the fire bell, each class leaves the building immediately through the exit designated for that particular location, and proceeds to a specific location outside the building. You should know the exit and passing routes designated for the various rooms in which you are scheduled throughout the day. You should walk quietly and as rapidly as possible, showing general courtesy and serious attitude toward the drill. This results in the school being cleared in the shortest possible time. Once outside, you are to get in line with your class and teacher for attendance purposes and await further instructions.

Community expectation of the middle school includes the expectation that students will practice good manners and conduct while in school and while in attendance at such school sponsored activities as athletic contests, assemblies, concerts, field trips, formal and informal dances, etc. It is therefore important that school rules include regulations that delineate standards of acceptable student conduct necessary to preserve educational decorum. It is therefore expected that:

1. Students will refrain from placing their hands on other students or displaying overt affection, i.e.,

kissing, hugging, etc.;

2. No sitting on the floors of corridors or classrooms as well as upon tables and desks;
3. No shouting; no use of profanity or offensive language; no rough play or fighting; no destructive behaviors toward school properties or individual properties; and, of course, adherence to all school rules.
4. Respectful attitude and conversation toward all members of the school community – faculty, students and administration is expected from all within the school.

The same expectations that exist for school behavior also exist for classroom behavior. Additionally, the teams and classroom teacher will establish whatever other policies and procedures that are felt to be appropriate to their particular setting and subject in compliance with the general rules of the school. Failure to comply with the above will result in disciplinary action.

Scituate Middle School encourages students to dress and groom themselves in an appropriate manner. Any dress or appearance that clearly constitutes a threat to health or safety to students or disrupts the educational process is prohibited. We realize that the responsibility of dress is primarily a matter for both the student and parent. However, we expect that each student would wear such attire that does not offend modesty. Therefore, certain guidelines are noted below:

1. that Bermuda shorts will be acceptable attire BUT running shorts, cut-offs, silk shorts, spandex or

short shorts will not be permitted;

2. that all shirts and blouses must fully cover the waist and undergarments and mid-area is to be covered at all times;
3. that no hats or outdoor jackets or coats are to be worn in the building except with the permission of

the principal where special medical circumstances exist;

4. that no clothing with messages that mention alcohol, drugs violence, sex, profanity, scatology or hate

language including illustrations or symbols of the same, or illustrations or symbols that are derogatory may be worn;

5. that sun glasses may not be worn in school unless medical reasons exist;
6. that muscle shirts, tank top shirts, T-strap shirts and mesh shirts, if worn, must be accompanied by another shirt or blouse worn at the same time;
7. that no garment or accessories shall be worn which can contribute to unsafe classroom conditions, or which are designed as potential weapons; and
8. interpretation of these rules shall be in the sole discretion of the Principal.

The Rhode Island Smoke-Free Schools Act and Scituate School Committee policy prohibit students from smoking in school buildings, on school grounds, and while traveling on buses to and from school and at school-sponsored activities. The hazards of smoking are well documented. It shall be the purpose of this policy to set standards and guidelines which will assure school district compliance with state employees, and the general public and creating an environment which serves to reinforce its efforts in the teaching about the hazards of smoking.

Any student found in violation of the above policy will be subject to the following disciplinary action:

(a) 1^st offense: 6 hours of after school detention and referral to Student Assistance Counselor

(b) 2^nd offense: one (1) day of in-school suspension combined with six (6) hours of after school

detention, parent conference, and second referral to Student Assistance Counselor

c) 3^rd offense: three (3) days of out-of-school suspension, (suspension will be revoked if student enrolls

in a smoking-cessation program at his/her expense)

1. Students are to report to the ISS Room (A-8) immediately after homeroom, bringing with them the materials and books they will need for that day. No personal reading material is allowed.
2. Assignments will be requested from teachers. Students will be given these assignments at the appropriate period of the day. Failure to do the assigned work will result in a zero (0) for that work.
3. Students will remain seated and quiet unless otherwise instructed by the supervisor. Students will not be allowed to sleep.
4. Students will eat during first lunch period. A staff member will return lunch trays. Students will only be allowed to eat or drink at lunchtime.
5. As a group, students will be allowed to go to the lavatory at three designated times: 10:15 AM, 12:45 PM, and 2:00 PM.
6. Excluding lunch and lavatory times, students will not be allowed to leave the ISS Room unless authorized by an administrator.
7. Any student who exhibits disruptive behavior and fails to obey the instructions of the supervisor will be removed from ISS and sent to the office. A parent will be contacted to come and remove that student from school. If a parent cannot be contacted or is unable to come to school, that student will remain in the office until the end of the day. That student will not be allowed to return to school until a parent conference is conducted with the Principal. An additional day of in-school or out-of-school suspension will be assigned.
8. Students forfeit the opportunity to participate in athletics or other extra-curricular activities on the day(s) assigned to ISS.

The following types of offenses could lead to suspension from school:

1. Truancy from school;
2. Excessive tardiness to school and to class;
3. Failure to attend Detention as assigned;
4. Cutting classes;
5. Physical attacks upon other students (fighting)
6. Physical attacks upon school staff and personnel;
7. Use of obscene or profane language directed toward other students or school staff members;
8. Threatening or assuming a threatening attitude toward students or school staff members;
9. Leaving school grounds without permission during regular school hours (including lunchtime);

(10) Smoking in school buildings or on school grounds; possession of smoking paraphenalia;

(11) Failure to carry out the reasonable directions of a staff member acting in an official capacity

relative to duties assigned;

(12) Possession of any kind of weapon such as a knife, a gun, a blackjack, etc., in school , on

(13) Destruction of school property;

(14) Verbal and/or physical harassment of other students or teachers;

(15) Repeated violations of existing rules and incorrigible classroom behavior;

(16) Any other offense the administration deems necessary.

A parent conference is necessary for readmission in each of the above cases.

Students are not allowed to participate in any school activity nor be present on school grounds during their suspension.

The Scituate School Committee recognizes the rights of all students to be educated in a safe and nurturing environment. To this end the Scituate School Committee will provide and maintain a school environment that is conducive to learning.

The Scituate School Committee and administration expect students to respect and meet the behavioral expectations of the district. These include respect for the rights and property of other students, school staff and the community. It is also expected that the students will resolve conflicts through nonviolent means. Therefore, the Scituate School Committee establishes a zero tolerance policy for weapons and violence in the schools.

Possession of or use of any kind of weapon, including but not limited to guns and knives, in school or on school grounds or at school activities (e.g. field trips, athletic events) will result in disciplinary action which may include suspension, exclusion and/or expulsion from the district. Furthermore, anyone involved in such behavior will be referred to the Scituate Police.

Implementation of this policy shall be in accordance with due process requirements applicable to regular or special education students as the case may be.

Any student in possession of, using, under the influence of, delivering or selling any controlled substance or alcohol, representing any substance as an illegal substance, or possessing drug paraphernalia on school grounds or while representing the school or participating in a school sponsored activity will be subject to severe penalties. Controlled substances are as defined by General Laws of Rhode Island 21-26.

Any student violating this section with respect to Schedule I, II, or III controlled substances other than marijuana shall be subject to the following penalties:

First offense: not to exceed ten (10) days out of school suspension by the Superintendent or Principal.

Any subsequent offense will be referred to the School Committee which my suspend for more than ten (10) days out of school or may expel.

Additional penalties. Any student who is suspended pursuant to the above shall also be suspended for a period of time not to exceed ninety (90) days plus intervening non-school days from participating in or attendance at any after school or extra-curricular activity including graduation ceremonies, except after school detention or extra academic help.

Any student violating this section with respect to alcohol or any Schedule IV or V controlled substances or marijuana shall be subject to the following penalties:

First offense not to exceed five (5) days out of school suspension by the Superintendent or Principal.

Second offense not to exceed ten (10) days out of school suspension by the Superintendent or Principal.

Any subsequent offense will be referred to the School Committee, which may suspend for more than ten (10) days out of school or may expel.

Additional penalties Any student who is suspended pursuant to the above shall also be suspended for a period of time not to exceed forty-five (45) days from participating in, or attendance at, any after school or extra-curricular activity, including graduation ceremonies, except after school detention or extra academic help. Whenever in the judgement of the Superintendent an offense which ordinarily provides for a suspension not to exceed (10) days is so flagrant or serious as to render the penalty inappropriate, the matter shall be referred directly to the School Committee which may suspend for more than ten (10) days out of school or may expel.

The Superintendent or Principal may temporarily suspend any pupil on account of disobedience or misconduct and in accordance with school rules. The Scituate School Committee, after a proper hearing, may exclude any student for such a time as it may determine, or permanently expel him.

School Committee policy states that any student who has reached his/her sixteenth birthday may be excluded from school for improper conduct.

Suspensions for ten (10) days of less may be made by the Superintendent or Principal. Suspensions for more than ten (10) days and expulsions shall be made by the School Committee.

No handicapped child as specified by the Rhode Island Board of Regents Guidelines shall be excluded, suspended or withdrawn from school for reasons deriving only from the handicapping condition. The sole exception to this regulation shall be made by the Superintendent of Schools. A child so excluded shall be afforded home tutoring and counseling therapy as determined by the evaluation team in an effort to determine a reassignment to a program which can better meet the specific needs of the child.

1. that the student be given oral or written notice of the charges against him/her;
2. that if the student denies the charges, the student be given an explanation of the evidence the authorities possess;
3. that the student be given the opportunity to present his/her version;
4. that notice and hearing generally should precede the student’s removal from school but if prior notice and hearing are not feasible, as where the student’s presence endangers persons or property or threatens disruption of the academic process, thus justifying immediate removal from school, the necessary notice or hearing shall follow as soon as practicable;
5. that in the event a student has not attained the age of eighteen (18), notice containing the reason for suspension and the duration thereof be given to the parent(s) or legal guardian. Such notice shall be given in the parents spoken language, unless it is clearly not feasible to do so.

Any suspension issued by an administrator may be appealed. This appeal must be submitted before 8:00 AM the day the suspension is to be served. If the appeal is denied, the decision may be appealed to the Superintendent of Schools. This appeal must be scheduled and heard within two days following the denial by the Principal.

1. Prior to suspension or expulsions, except for such time as not feasible, as where the student’s presence endangers persons or property or threatens disruption of the academic process, thus justifying immediate removal from school, the necessary notice of hearing shall follow as soon as practicable. The student shall be afforded:

1. a clear written statement of the reason for suspension or expulsion;
2. notice of the right to prompt public or private hearing at the student’s election and the right to be represented by counsel at such hearing; and
3. if a hearing is requested, the student shall be given a prompt notice, setting the time and place of such hearing, said time and place to be reasonably set so as to allow sufficient time for preparation, without undue delay.

(b) In the event a student has not attained the age of (18) the parent(s) or legal guardian shall be afforded

the procedures stated in Sections 1, 2 & 3 above. Such notice by written in the parent’s spoken

language, unless it is clearly not feasible to do so.

(c) The student shall be afforded a hearing at which the student shall have the right to

1. representation and participation by counsel and
2. cross-examine witnesses and to present witness in his or her behalf

(d) There shall be a complete and accurate stenographic or electronic record of the hearing including all

exhibits. The record shall be preserved for transmission to the Commissioner of Education as soon

as possible in the event of an appeal.

5. The student shall be furnished a copy of the record without cost.
6. A written decision shall be rendered within a reasonable time.
7. The student shall promptly be provided with a copy of said decision.
8. A copy of the decision, together with the record, shall be promptly forwarded to the Commissioner of Education if there is an appeal.

The basic premise that must be understood is that the riding of a school bus is not an absolute right but a conditional right. A student does not ride a bus under any conditions, but under reasonable rules established by the governing authority or designee. Should the student violate any rules, he does so at his own peril. The following rules are to be posted in each bus:

1. On entering bus, move in an orderly manner to your seats;
2. Sit three in a seat when necessary and remain seated;
3. Do not stand in front of the front steps of the bus. This interferes with the driver.
4. Do not eat on the bus.
5. Keep your voice down—no loud talking or shouting;
6. A bus driver has the same authority in his bus as a teacher in his classroom. Passengers who do not obey bus regulations will not be transported;
7. Smoking is prohibited at all times.

Students failing to cooperate with these rules would be penalized as follows:

1. There is two-week suspension from bus privileges on the first offense for carrying weapons, use of

profanity, use of firecracker, causing open flame, fighting, malicious damage to buses, and throwing

articles out of or in the bus;

2. Other offenses such as smoking, undesirable behavior, and petting will result in a warning on the first offense and loss of bus privileges on the second offense; the length of time to be determined by the building principal up to a maximum of two weeks.

Out of town pupils will deal directly with the Superintendent of Schools.

All rules will pertain to field trips and school sponsored functions.

Each student is required to return a copy of the rules, signed by a parent, to his respective bus driver. Failure to do so will result in suspension of bus privileges until a signed copy is returned.

School bus complaints will be made on a school bus complaint form by the bus driver, parents, or students. These forms are given to the building principal for action. If a student is suspended from riding the bus, several days of grace time may be given in order that parents have an opportunity to arrange transportation for their child who must attend school under the school attendance laws.