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INTRODUCTION
Dear Students: Welcome to Thorp Middle School. This handbook is designed to acquaint you with aspects of your years in the Middle School. As you proceed from day to day as a Thorp Cardinal, you will be given as much freedom as your group and self-responsibility allows.
The Thorp Middle School staff is dedicated to providing the best possible learning climate for each student. We are glad to have you here.
Sincerely,
Thorp Middle School Staff Basic Philosophy of Education
BASIC PHILOSOPHY
All students are recognized as unique individuals who enter the learning environment from a variety of family structures and socio-economic circumstances. Thorp Public Schools will respond to the unique learning, developmental, cultural, and emotional traits of each student. In cooperation with the home, church, and community, our schools will provide new experiences, opportunities, and encouragement in a secure environment that will enable each student to attain and enjoy his/her potential as an individual, family member and citizen.
Equal Education Opportunities
Discrimination Complaint Procedure
If any person believes that the School District or any part of the school organization has inadequately applied the principles and/or regulations of Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504 or in some way discriminates on the basis of sex, race, national origin, ancestry, age, creed, pregnancy, parental or marital status, sexual orientation, or physical, learning, cognitive or emotional disability, (s)he may bring forward a complaint to the Title VI, Title IX, or Section 504 Coordinator:
Barkley Anderson
School District Office
Thorp Public School
Thorp, Wisconsin 54771
or during school hours by telephone: (715) 669-5401.
Informal Procedure
The person who believes (s)he has a valid basis for complaint shall discuss the concern with the local Title VI, Title IX, or Section 504 Coordinator, who shall in turn investigate the complaint and reply to the complaint in writing within five (5) school/business days. If this reply is not acceptable to the complainant, (s)he may initiate formal procedure according to the steps in the school board Policy Handbook.
Middle School Philosophy
Our vision of creating a Middle School is rooted in our concern for human development and related principles of learning: being responsive to the needs and characteristics of a unique and diverse student population. Middle School is not a Junior High School, but rather it is a transition, a program bridging and differing from both the Elementary School and the High School phases of formal education. It focuses on the unique needs of the early adolescent.
Students' Rights
Sexual harassment is a violation of state and federal law. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has defined sexual harassment as "unwelcomed sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical contact and other verbal or physical conduct of sexual nature"......when.... Such contact has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with student's school performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment.
Specific actions that can be viewed as harassment include:• Unsolicited verbal or written sexual comments and harassment.• Subtle pressure for sexual activity.* Patting, pinching, unnecessary touching, or attempted/actual physical assault.• Sexual or racially oriented jokes, stories and materials (posters, magazine....) HARASSMENT CAN BE FOUND TO OCCUR WHERE THE EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT HAS BECOME HOSTILE OR INTOLERABLE. Procedure:
For persons who believe they have been sexually harassed, or observed harassment, should speak to one of the following: Principal, Counselor, or Superintendent.
DOCUMENT IN WRITING THE NATURE OF THE HARASSMENT.
1. State the facts as you see them. Be as precise as possible and give times and dates if possible,
2. Describe your own personal feelings and reactions to the incident(s).
3. State what you would like to have happen next. If you want the behavior to stop, then state that.4. Inform family members of the situation. THE DISTRICT PROHIBITS AND WILL NOT TOLERATE HARASSMENT OF ANY STUDENT.
Accidents
1. All accidents occurring on school premises must be reported to the office.
2. Designated school personnel will administer first aid.
3. If possible, parents will be notified by phone when the seriousness of the accident warrants it.4. An accident report must be completed and filed in the office. The teacher in charge fills out these reports at the time of the accident or by the secretary.
5. Every student is expected to do his part in observing and promoting rules of safety.
6. Conditions that are of a hazardous nature should be reported to a teacher or the principal by whoever sees them.
Attendance
Section 118.15 of the Wisconsin Statutes requires attendance during the full period and hours that school is in session until the end of the school term, quarter or semester of the school year in which the child becomes 18 years of age (unless the child has a legal excuse).
Student Absences
The responsibility for regular school attendance of a child rests upon the child's parents or guardians. No absence shall be recorded when a child is physically away from school because (s)he is participating in school sponsored; teacher chaperoned field trips, workshops, contests, athletic events, etc.
Excused Absences
Parents are expected to call the school when their child(ren) will be absent. The school office is open at 7:30 a.m. to receive phone calls. When a student is absent and no phone call has been received, the school will call the student's home. If no contact is made, a written note from a parent or guardian is necessary upon the student's return in order to consider the absence excused. Excused absences in excess of 10 days in a semester may require further documentation (ie. doctor's excuse).
The district administrator, principal or attendance officer is empowered to approve a legal excuse to any student for the following reasons:
1. Evidence that the child is not in proper physical or mental condition to attend school or an educational program. The district may request the parent or guardian to obtain a written statement from a physician or licensed practitioners as proof of the physical or mental condition of the child. Such excuse shall be made in writing, shall state the period of time for which it is valid and shall not exceed 30 days.
2. An illness in the immediate family that requires the absence of the student because of family responsibilities.
3. Medical, dental, chiropractic, optometric or any other valid professional appointments. Parents or guardians are requested to make their appointments during non-school hours or study halls.
4. A death in the family or funerals for close relatives or friends.
5. Religious holidays or attendance at special family celebrations.
6. Family trips that can only be taken during the normal school term. The intent of this statement is to provide opportunity for students to accompany their parent(s) or guardian on a vacation that cannot be scheduled during non-school time. A parent or guardian shall notify the principal or school attendance officer several days prior to leaving on vacation of the pending absence for the purpose of reviewing the student's attendance record and overall performance record. Student vacations or trips without parent or guardian accompaniment are not excused absences.
7. A court appearance or other legal procedure which requires the attendance of the student.
8. A quarantine as imposed by a public health officer.
9. Attendance at special events of educational value as approved in advance by the principal or the attendance officer.
10. Approved school activities during class time.
11. Special circumstances that show good cause and are approved in advance by the principal, i.e. drivers' exam.
12. Students whose that' farm may be excused for work at home, however, students who accumulate 10 absences in any one semester would not be excused for work at home during the remainder of that semester.
All students with excused absences will be given opportunity to make up work missed in accordance with the following guidelines.
1. It is the student's responsibility to contact teachers before or after class time to make arrangements for making up work missed during an absence from school.
2. Students who miss class for reasons that are determined to be excused will be given opportunity, whenever possible, to make up work missed when they return to school.
3. Teachers grant the number of days missed plus one for make-up time, unless an exception is granted by the principal due to extenuating circumstances. 4. Examinations missed during an absence will be taken at a time mutually agreed upon by the student and the teacher.
Unexcused Absence
Students who are absent from school with the consent of their parents or guardian but whose absence does not fall under the reasons listed above and students who "skip" or are absent for no particular reason shall be considered unexcused.
1. A student whose absence is considered unexcused will receive a grade of zero. Tests are an exception and may be made up at a time mutually agreed upon by the student and the teacher.
2. In the case of unexcused absences a student may receive a zero for class participation for all classes missed if participation grades were given the day the student was absent.
3. Students have the obligation to obtain, understand, and retain for future reference and use all materials presented during their unexcused absence.
Tardies
Students who are tardy without a parental excuse are given an unexcused absence for the time they missed class. Three tardies in any single class will result in an after school detention.
Bicycles
Students riding bicycles to school are required to park them in the bicycle rack at the North entrance of the school building. Riding on school grounds is not permitted. Bicycles must be dismounted upon entering school grounds and must remain parked until riders are ready to go home. Bicycles should not be ridden on the playground during school hours. The owner is responsible for his/her own bicycle. Please lock up your bike to the bicycle rack!
Breakfast and Lunch Programs
A breakfast and hot lunch is served daily. Breakfast will be served before school. Middle School students may purchase
meals in the school office from 7:45 a.m. - 8:05 a.m. A minimum of 10 meals will be sold at a time, however, students may purchase as many meals ahead as (s)he wishes. Our state-of-the art computerized accounting system will print out statements when student's accounts are down to two or fewer meals as a reminder to students and their parents that additional meals should be purchased.
Meal Prices* for the 2003-2004 School Year are as follow:
Lunch
Full Price $1.60/Meal $16.00/10 Meals
Reduced Price $ .40/Meal $ 4.00/10 Meals
Milk Ticket Only $ .15/Milk $ 1.50/ 10 Milks
Breakfast
Full Price $ .75/Meal $ 7.50/10 Meals
Reduced Price $ .30/Meal $ 3.00/10 Meals
*All prices are subject to change.
Breakfast/Lunch Accounts
Students are expected to have a positive balance in their lunch accounts at all times. If a family's account is at a negative balance, the student will not be allowed to eat hot lunch or breakfast. Students are strongly encouraged to bring their lunch money to the office prior to the start of the school day.
Breakfast/Lunch Free or Reduced Prices
Parents of students considering free or reduced price lunches should return the Application Form immediately. Forms are found in the District Newsletter. If you do not receive a District Newsletter you may pick up a Free/Reduce Lunch Form Application in the school office. The application is reviewed by the school's District Administrator and parents will be notified whether the application is approved or denied. Families must apply each new school year.
Students receiving free or reduced price meals will have a computerized account just as a full price meal account. Due to this computerized accounting system, the District is able to maintain the utmost confidentiality of families participating in the free or reduced price lunch program. *If you are not sure whether your family qualifies for this program please apply anyway. Many State and Federal funding plans are based on the number of students participating in the free and reduced price lunch program. Utilizing free and reduced assistance is an asset to the school district. There is NO excuse for unpaid lunch bills.
Change of Student Information
Inform the office promptly of any changes in address; phone number, marital status or emergency contact person during the school year. This information is essential for emergency situations as well as mailings.
Children of Divorced or Separated Parents
The school district feels it is important for both parents to be aware of their child's progress and performance in school and strives to communicate with both parents to the greatest extent possible.
The school district takes the position of strict neutrality between parents who are involved in an action affecting the family (divorce, separation, etc.) unless otherwise directed by court restrictions. Both parents will be provided access to their child's school records and all instructional material used in their child's program unless the court order restricts one parent from viewing the records and/or instructional records. Unless directed otherwise by the court, the school district will use the following guidelines regarding parental access:
1. The parent enrolling the child will be considered the custodial parent and the other parent will be considered the visitational parent. Visitational parent means a non-custodial parent who has child visitation rights and privileges by virtue of the court order.
2. The custodial parent's residence shall be considered the student's residence for school purposes.
3. The visitational parent may request copies of all report cards, notices of school activities, disciplinary reports, conference opportunities or summaries, or other student records which are provided to the custodial parent. The visitational parent may also participate in all activities including conferences.
4. All parents are encouraged to participate in their children's education by attending school related functions. However, contact with a child at school solely as a means to exercise visitation shall not be allowed. The school district reserves the right to request a parent to leave school property if such parent is interfering with or disrupting the education process of their children, other students, teacher or district employee. The school also asks that parents pre-arrange a visit to the school one day prior to the visit.
5. The student enrolled in the district may be released from school to either the custodial or visitational parent unless the custodial parent has presented a court order or other legally binding document that prohibits the release to the visitational parent.
6. No parent will have right superior to the other unless there is a court order restricting one or both parent's rights or contact with his or her children.
If the court has ordered arrangements other than those specified above, it is the responsibility of the parent to provide a copy of such court order or other relevant materials to the school. In the event the custodial parent fails to provide the district with a certified copy of the most recent court order dealing with custody or visitation of the child(ren) or fails to provide the address of the visitational parent, this information may be supplied by the visitational parent.
Cumulative Records
A cumulative record is kept for every student in the Thorp School District beginning with Kindergarten and continuing through High School. The student's academic and attendance records, health status, social development and other pertinent information are kept in this cumulative record. If a student transfers to another school district, the cumulative record is forwarded to the school or district upon request providing the parent or guardian has signed a release for these records.
Daily Routine
The arrival bell rings at 8:00 a.m. Students should not arrive before 7:45 a.m. Students are expected to immediately go to the gym upon arrival. There is no supervision prior to 7:45 am. At 8:07 students will be excused to their first hour class. Students are expected to arrive promptly. It remains the policy of the Thorp Middle School that all students stay on school property during the entire school day, including lunch periods. It is expected that all students eat at school. We appreciate parental cooperation in this matter.
Middle School students are dismissed at 3:15 p.m.
Detentions
Homework Make-Up: At the discretion of the classroom teacher, a student may be assigned a detention to make up work if they are falling behind. The student will serve the detention with the teacher who assigned it so that they may receive extra assistance with their work.
Principal Assigned: Detentions will be served from 3:15 pm - 4:00 pm on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday with the teacher assigned to have detention that week. Students are expected to know when and with whom their detention is. These are an opportunity for students to reflect on a behavioral issue and thus the following expectations will be applied.
* Students must be on time and follow the teacher's rules.
* Homework cannot be done at this time.
* No food, sleeping or talking allowed.
* If any of the above rules are broken, an extra detention will be assigned.
* If the student does not serve the detention on the assigned date the detention time will be doubled.
* If the student fails to serve either of the above detentions an in-school suspension will be assigned.
* Three detentions in a short period of time constitute an in-school suspension.
Discipline Code
No student shall engage in abusive behavior, invade another's privacy, and/or use vulgar language which in the factual context is disruptive, disrespectful, insubordinate, destructive or dangerous to the welfare of the school and the people involved in its daily operation and activities. No student shall use inappropriate language and possess or pass any inappropriate materials. 1. Students are expected to do assigned classroom work.
2. Students must comply with reasonable instructions or directions of all school district personnel.
3. Students are expected to attend school regularly and be on time for classes. Excessive absences from school will be dealt with as provided by state statutes.4. Accepted patterns of courtesy and decency in relationships with other students and staff are to be followed by students at all times. Pupils shall refrain from the use of repulsive or improper language.
5. Students are expected to respect the property of individuals and the school. Willful theft, malicious defacing or destruction of school and personal property, supplies and equipment is unacceptable.
6. Students are expected to use lockers solely for the storage of outer clothing (coats, jackets, hats, etc.) and school
related materials. The locker is not the student's private property and may be opened by school officials if probable cause exists. Use of lockers or school equipment for illegal purposes is unacceptable. Personal, lost or stolen items are not the responsibility of the school.
7. Students are not permitted to use nor possess smoking materials (including matches or lighters), illegal drugs or intoxicating beverages on school premises or at school sponsored activities. The Thorp School District is a Drug Free School Zone.
8. Throwing snowballs is prohibited at all times on the school grounds.
9. Students are expected to move through the school corridors in a quiet and orderly manner. Running, pushing, shoving, etc. is unacceptable.
10. Fighting on the school grounds or in the building will not be tolerated.
11. Threatening acts, whether they are verbal, physical or written will not be tolerated.
12. Theft or possession of stolen property will not be tolerated.13. Thorp Middle School operates a "closed campus" system. Students are not to leave the school grounds during school hours without permission from the office and the knowledge of their parents.
14. Gum chewing is not allowed.
15. As a courtesy to our educational climate and all people within our building, students are asked to refrain from physical
displays of affection while at school or during school activities. Only a small number of students fail to observe the regulations of the school and the general rules of good behavior. Those who fail to observe these rules and regulations will be subject to correction and when necessary, to such discipline as may be decided by the administration. Flagrant or repeated misbehavior may result in suspension or expulsion from school.
Dress Code
Parents should be aware of their child's attire and make sure that clothing is appropriate for school. Good hygiene practices should be maintained at all times. All clothing must be clean, safe and free from unduly distractions. All clothing and appearance should be such that they do not disrupt instruction or the learning process. The following are NOT permitted.
1. The wearing of coats and hats in the building during school
2. Bare midriff tops or strapless/spaghetti strap tops
3. Pants that are too long or too large
4. Skirts, shorts or dresses that are too short. (A simple method for judging the appropriate length of a garment is to place your hands at your side --- the garment should be no shorter than the ends of your fingertips.) Good hygiene practices should be maintained at all times. Students deemed noncompliant with this policy may be given the option to change into alternative clothing at school or parents may be notified.
Tennis shoes are necessary in order to take part in the physical education activities in the gym. A change of clothes should be kept in school as directed by the physical education instructor so they are available when needed, but should be taken home periodically (each weekend) to be washed. During winter weather, students should come properly dressed to go outdoors during their lunch period. Students are encouraged to have boots or special shoes for outdoors and tennis shoes or street shoes for inside the school. Not only is it a health hazard to sit with boots or wet shoes on, but also the classroom floors may be dangerous.
Fire/Tornado Drills
Fire Drills
Fire drills are held at regular intervals as required by law. These drills are a necessary safety precaution. Directions for leaving the building are posted in every classroom. It is important that students leave the building in absolute silence and single file accordingly. Students must remain with their class, as teachers will take attendance outside the building.
Tornado Drills
Tornado drills are held at regular intervals. All students are directed to go into the hallways or designated areas and assume a kneeling position. Absolute silence by every student is essential.
In the event of Tornado Watch or Tornado Warning we will follow the procedure below.
1. Tornado watches will be monitored over the radio, but information will not be passed on to the students.
2. If Tornado develops (is sighted) in the Thorp area, students will be alerted and asked to move to the protected areas. This notification will be given over the intercom system.
3. The areas designated for safety are marked in pink on the school floor plan posted by the classroom doors.
4. The students should move quickly and quietly to the designated areas.
5. Classroom teachers will verify attendance.
6. Everyone will remain inside.
7. Students will kneel facing lockers; place heads down and cover their head with their hands.
8. Teachers will be positioned amongst students.
9. TORNADO WATCH........Conditions are right for tornado.
TORNADO WARNING....... tornado has been sighted in the area.
Insurance
The purpose of the student insurance plan is to pay the cost of reasonable and necessary hospital and medical expenses incurred as a result of an accidental injury sustained by students while participating in school sponsored activities, including intramural athletics and physical education. There is a $50.00 deductible cost.
Whenever a student is injured (s)he is expected to report the injury to the teacher or teaching assistant on the playground on the day the injury occurred in order to be covered by the insurance.
Under most circumstances, eyeglasses are not covered by any school's insurance, so special care should be taken by students wearing glasses.
Lockers and Personal Valuables
Students are cautioned against telling other student their locker combination or "pennying" their lockers. Damages caused by kicking, misuse of tape, etc. will be charged to the student responsible. Any locker malfunction should be reported to the elementary office so repairs can be completed. Lockers are considered to be school property and may be subject to search at any time by school officials for any reason. Students are encouraged not to keep anything of value in their lockers. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items from lockers.
Lost and Found
Clothing and personal belongings should be labeled with the student's name. Lost and found items will be placed in a central location of the building.
Medication
The following guidelines incorporate provisions for safety and protection of students on medication, classmates and the school personnel involved.
1. All medicines are to be kept under lock and key in the office.
2. No medication will be given without signed permission slip by the parent(s) or legal guardian(s).
3. Medicines are to be brought to school by the parent(s) or guardian(s) and not sent with students.
4. No medication will be given unless the parent(s) or guardian(s) in writing provides the following information.
a. The name of the medication.
b. The dose to be given.
c. The times doses are to given.
d. The start and stop dates medication is to be given.
e. The physician's name prescribing the medication.
5. It is required that medication be sent to school in the original containers.
Pets
No pets are to be brought to school without first receiving approval from both the principal and the teacher, and a minimum 24-hour notice is required prior to bringing these pets to school.
Pledge Of Allegiance To The Flag
The "Pledge of Allegiance" is given over the public address system daily. This is done in compliance with State Statutes 118.06(2), which reads: "Every public school shall offer the pledge of allegiance or the national anthem in grades one to 12 each school day. Every private school shall offer the pledge of allegiance or the national anthem in grades one to 12 each school day unless the governing body of the private school determines the requirement conflicts with the school's religious doctrines. No pupil may be compelled, against the pupil's objections or those of the pupil's parents or guardian, to recite the pledge or to sing the anthem.
Progress Reports
Teachers issue reports of student progress every nine weeks to parents in the form of report card. Parent/Teacher conferences will be held November 13th and March 1st for all students and throughout the year by appointment when needed. Mid-term progress reports are mailed home by the school for those students who are experiencing great difficulty or outstanding achievement in an area of study.
Progress reports are mailed to the parent/guardian who has primary placement of the child. Anyone else requesting information must notify the school office in person.
The best time to contact teachers is from 3:15 p.m. until 4:00 p.m.
Telephone Calls
Students may use the school phones for emergencies or school-related business. Students must receive permission to use the phones beforehand from school personnel.
Textbooks
All basic textbooks are loaned to students for their use during the school year. The student's name and book number should be written in ink in the book in case the book is misplaced. It is expected that the student will provide the greatest possible care for texts and other school property. The student is subject to a fine should an assigned textbook become lost or damaged.
Towel Fees
All students are to pay $2.50 towel fee per year. The school launders the towels daily.
Visitors
Parents and guardians are encouraged to visit the school periodically, either during the day or after school. All visitors must report to the office upon entering the school building. Anyone interested in visiting the school should notify the school one day prior to the date of visit.
Withdrawal Procedures
Parents or guardians of students withdrawing from school need to sign a release form. Students must complete a withdrawal checklist. Books and other school property are to be returned and the principal will acknowledge obligations paid before final withdrawal.
Alcohol, Tobacco and Drugs
Any student reported using, distributing, buying and/or selling any alcohol, tobacco or drugs on school grounds or at a school sponsored activities will be given a one day suspension and the parents/guardians will be notified along with a discipline report filed in the office. Other possible disciplinary action may include:
*After school detention
*Suspension 1-5 days
*Expulsion
*Referral to police Busses
BUSES
Prior to Loading:
1. Be on time at the designated stop.
2. Stay off the roads at all times while waiting.
3. Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop.
4. Riders should form single lines for entry; pushing or other disturbances will result in disciplinary action.
On the Bus
1. No loud laughter or talking to divert driver attention.
2. Students must refrain from tampering with the bus and its equipment. The offender will pay for any damage.
3. Books, food or other articles left on the bus may not be recovered.
4. Older students should look after the safety and comfort of smaller children.
5. Do not throw anything out the window; doing so may result in a fine.
6. Riders will remain in their seats while the bus is in motion. "Horseplay" is dangerous and will not be permitted.
7. No smoking, profanity or card playing is permitted on the bus.
8. No liquids, food or live animals are allowed on the bus.
9. For the safety of all, all riders must remain quiet when the bus is approaching and crossing a railroad.
After Leaving the Bus
1. Cross the road, when necessary, at least 10 feet in front of the bus, BUT ONLY AFTER looking in both directions to be sure that there is no traffic approaching and after being given the signal from the driver.
2. The drivers will not discharge riders at places other than the regular bus stops, at the home, or at school, except by written authorization from the parent/guardian or school official.
3. Bus stops will be designated wherever necessary to insure the safety of all students concerned.
Extra-Curricular Trips
1. All bus rules and regulations apply to any trip taken by the school for extra-curricular purposes.
2. Students must respect the supervision of the chaperone(s) appointed by the school.3. Students going to a school activity by bus MUST return by bus unless a parent requests, in writing that the student and that student only return with the family. This will be allowed only after the student has entered the bus and roll call has been taken. The parent must be present when the student leaves the bus.
Middle School Dance Policy
The following set of rules is not all-inclusive. However, these few basic rules should serve to guide students, parents and chaperones towards appropriate behavior and safe successful dances.
1. Advance, written consent to hold dance will be obtained from the principal through the student "Principal Representative". Custodians will be advised of the dance as well.
2. Dances will start at 7:00 p.m. and end at 10:00 p.m. Doors will be locked at 7:30 p.m. Student Council members may be expected to arrive 1/2 hour early and stay 1/2 hour after the dance. Parents promptly at 10:00 p.m should pick up all other students.
3. No student may arrive late without consulting the Advisor(s), or leave the dance early without written parental consent. Once a student leaves the dance, (s)he may not return without prior permission from the Advisor(s).
4. Advisor(s) assume responsibility of the dance and therefore advisor(s) are in complete charge of the event.
5. Chaperones will meet with the Advisor(s) prior to the dance to discuss responsibilities and any concerns.
6. Dances will be chaperoned by an adequate number of teachers and parent volunteers. 7. Students are expected to demonstrate respect for the authority of all chaperones. 8. All regular school rules will be in effect, including wearing of appropriate attire, use of appropriate language, restraint from disturbances and NO ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES will be permitted. Violators will be punished to the full extent of the law.
9. No "Carry Ins" will be permitted. A variety of soda and snacks will be available for purchase throughout the dance. 10. Guests must be approved by the principal and registered in the Elementary/Middle School office by 3:00 p.m. on the Monday before the dance. Only middle school age students may attend as guests at Middle School dances. 11. All music requests must be turned into the Advisor(s) by 3:00 p.m. the Monday before the dance.
12. The Advisor(s) may adjust lights, sound volume and special effects. 13. Only DJ's and designated speakers will be allowed on the stage. 14. All exits and stair passageways must remain unblocked. 15. Adequate lighting must be on at all times during the dance.“Commons" - Sense Rules
Rules for the use of the Commons area are posted. Copies are given to all groups having permission to use this area.
1. Clean up your own area - tables, chairs, floors.
2. Push chairs back under the tables as you leave.
3. Engaging in "food fights" or throwing food items is absolutely not tolerated.
4. Soda is not allowed below the top level of the Commons. 5. No one is to be on the stage area without permission. If on the stage - please use the stairs and not jump on or off the front of the stage.
6. Stay off the railings at all times.
7. Courtesy and good manners are expected at all times.
8. Students are to remain on the top level only unless supervised and instructed otherwise.
At lunch time....• Stack trays, bowls, etc. in window so that they will not fall.* Soak silverware in tub.* Put used paper napkins, milk cartons and food scraps in trash.* Use restroom as necessary.* Go outside or to the gym. DO NOT LOITER in the hallway.* Soda is not allowed at lunch.
Playground and Gym Rules
1. Playground supervisors are in charge of the playground and must be readily obeyed.
2. Students are expected to respect each other and the playground supervisors.
3. Students are to stay away from the entry doors and must also stay on the playground side of the light posts.
4. Students will finish their snacks before going on the playground. Be sure to put garbage in the trashcans provided.
5. Stay away from the lights and grass between the building and the sidewalks.
7. Playground equipment must be put away after each recess.
8. Profanity, rough playing and fighting are not allowed.
9. Tackle football, snowball throwing and kicking of playground equipment on the backstop is not permitted.
10. Students may play on the center blacktop and playground equipment up to the football field and track areas.
Gym:
1. Stay in the gym! Do not go down the hall, or back to the commons.
2. Use the bathroom before entering the gym.
3. Use the equipment appropriately, do not hang on the basketball rims, climb the bleachers, or sit on any equipment.
4. Respect your peers. Rough play is not permitted.
5. Put all equipment away when recess is over. When time is called you need to stop play right away.
FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH THESE RULES WILL RESULT IN A DETENTION OR LOSS OF GYM PRIVILEGES.
Study Hall Rules
Study hall rules:1. Respect all study hall supervisors.
2. Students must work for the first 20 minutes.
3. Students come in and sit down immediately and get to work.
4. Bring work to do. You will not be allowed to get work from locker.
5. Students are given assigned seats at the supervisor's discretion.
6. Students must ask for permission to go to LMC or computer lab. No more than two students at a time.
7. Students must get agendas signed in order to leave the room.
8. Students may talk or work together at supervisor's discretion.
9. Students may contact other teachers for help, if they are available.
10. NO food or soda.
11. Clean up the room after study hall.
The Acceptable Use Policy will be enforced in the computer lab. There will be no games, instant messaging, e-mail or chat room participation allowed. Computers are for educational use only.
Weapons and Prohibited Items
No person shall possess, use or store a weapon or weapon look-alike in or on school property, vehicles owned or operated for school purposes or at school related activities. Persons found with such items in their possession will be suspended or expelled and the proper authorities notified. For further reference see Wisconsin statutes 120.13(1), 939.22 (10) and 948.61. Any student violating the "Possession or Use of Weapons" policy shall be subject to suspension and/or expulsion in accordance with State and Federal law. (State statue requires that a person with a firearm in their possession on school property be immediately suspended pending an expulsion hearing.) The weapon(s) or weapon look-alike(s) will be confiscated and parent/guardian, as well as law enforcement, will be notified.
Vandalism/Theft
Any student responsible for vandalism to or theft of items in the school building, on school grounds, or equipment, shall be given up to a three-day suspension, possible legal action and shall not be re-admitted until a parent/guardian conference is held. The student and/or parent shall pay for any damage or expense incurred by the vandalism.
Advisor-Advisee
The overall goal of the Thorp Middle School Advisor-Advisee Program is to help students become happy, self-actualized, and fully functioning human beings. The Advisor-Advisee program is intended to assist our students in fully realizing all of their potential capabilities and talents, learn how to relate to others in a meaningful and satisfying way, and acknowledge their preciousness and worth as human beings.
The Advisor-Advisee Program is one attempt to achieve the following specific goals:
1. Belonging/Ownership
To help students feel that the Thorp Middle School is their school by becoming an effective member of the school community.
2. Peer Relationships
To provide a place, time and support for positive peer interaction and strengthening of the productive aspects of the peer group. 3. Social/Emotional Development
To assist students systematically with the developmental issues that confronts them at this time of their lives.
4. Communication
To be the primary focus for communication between the home and the school. 5. AdvocateTo give each student a faculty member, who will attempt to adopt the student's point of view so as to better help the student study, plan and solve problems during the Middle School years. To better meet the objectives of this Program, all Middle School Advisors have received special training in this area and work together to coordinate the activities within this program.
Monthly Character Topics
August/September: Self-Discipline & Responsibility February: Honesty
October: Cooperation March: Courtesy & Thoughtfulness
November: Thankfulness April: Perseverance & Determination
December: Generosity May: Respect & Self-Control
January: Patience June: Modesty & Trustworthiness
Extra-Curricular Activities
Academic
Art Contests Mathematics Contests
Battle of the Books Spelling Bee
Conservation Speaking Contest Student Activity Council
Drama Tutoring
Forensics Vocal Music Contests/Concerts
Geography Bee Writing and Poetry Contests
Instrumental Music/Concerts Young Astronauts
Athletics
Football
Volleyball
Basketball
Cross-Country
Track
Please contact the coaches for information, questions and concerns regarding these activities. *All students participating in extra-curricular activities are subject to Thorp Public School District Extra-Curricular Code.
**All students participating in Athletics are subject to Thorp Public School District Athletic Code.
Organization/Agenda
Students are expected to use their agenda for passes and for homework assignments. Teachers will check the agendas at the end of the school day to make sure assignments are correctly recorded. Students are also asked to keep a folder and notebook for each class, preferably in a binder and of different colors for organizational purposes.
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