CLEARWATER MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT HANDBOOK
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
I. School Song
II. MISSION STATEMENT
III. VISION
IV. CORE VALUES
Collaboration Commitment Accountability Citizenship
Diligence
V. SCHOOL CREED
VI MANDATORY SCHOOL RULES
TRUANCY
UNEXCUSED ABSENCES AND TRUANCY
Early Dismissals
UNIFORM REQUIREMENTS
GIRLS
Summer Uniform
Winter Uniform
BOYS
Summer Uniform
Winter Uniform
JEWELRY
LOCKERS AND PERSONAL VALUABLES
DISCIPLINE
CAFETERIA
CORRIDER RULES - (Keep Left. Keep Moving. Keep Quiet)
SUBJECTS
Other Programs Offered
BICYCLES
P.T.A.
STUDY TOOLS
ADVISORY
ACTIVITIES/CLUB PROGRAM
EMERGENCY INFORMATION
FIRE DRILL
PREFECTS
MEDIA CENTRE
LOST AND FOUND /PERSONAL PROPERTY
CELL PHONE POLICY
WEAPONS
SOCIALS
Student Achievement Recognition Program
TEXTBOOKS
TELEPHONE USE
VISITORS
MEDICATION
BUS POLICY
SCHOOL POLICY FOR ACTIVITIES AND SPORTS
Behaviour
P.E. Uniforms
HOMEWORK POLICY
Assignments
READING
Honour Roll System
MERIT/DEMERIT SYSTEM
I. SCHOOL SONG
Clearwater Middle School, the
place I'm proud to be.
Within these walls where
I am free to strengthen my abilities.
With determination I will always strive to be my best.
And feel the satisfaction
and rewards of my success.
I'll soar like an eagle with
outstretched wings
And face the challenges that each day brings.
With victory
With liberty
At Clearwater Middle
School.
I'll conduct myself with pride,
Respect and unity
And uphold Clearwater Middle School
With the highest dignity.
With each new day I'll I do my
part
To give my best at school
And embrace the morals and ideals
Of the golden rule.
Self‑confidence will be with me throughout each day.
When I feel that times are hard I can look to God and pray
For guidance
For the strength of an eagle,
At Clearwater Middle
School.
S. Somner ‑ May 1997
Names of the Teams
M 1 ‑Awesome Owls
M2 ‑ Falcons
M3 ‑ Kestrels
II. MISSION STATEMENT
“Clearwater Middle School, a caring community that promotes self-discipline and celebrates excellence, is committed to providing a safe, supportive environment and a rigorous, relevant curriculum that prepares our students to become independent, successful adults who will contribute to the local and global communities.”
High student achievement and performance in all core and encore subject areas
A safe risk free school community evidenced by high attendance rates and appropriate student behaviour
Embrace and embody the core values of Clearwater Middle School
Effective collaboration between all Clearwater Middle School stakeholders for opportunities that will enhance Clearwater Middle School Students in the discovery, exploration and pursuit of their respective dreams and aspirations
An inviting
learning environment where all Clearwater Middle School stakeholders feel that
they are valued members of the Clearwater Middle School family.
IV.
CORE VALUES
Collaboration
Commitment
Accountability
Citizenship
Diligence
Clearwater Middle School is a place where learning is sacred.
Everyone is to be loved and respected.
Everyone can learn from each other.
We are responsible ‑ each person as sister and brother.
Just as an eagle soars to the sky, we, too, will strive and set our goals high.
GO, Eagles, GO!!
VI MANDATORY SCHOOL RULES
One criteria of a student's success in school is regular and punctual attendance. Frequent absences may lead to poor academic work, lack of social development and possible academic failure. No single fact may interfere with a student's progress more quickly than frequent tardiness or absence.
· Students must be in school before 8:20 a.m.
·
Tardiness is not
accepted. You are considered late when you arrive between 8:30 a.m. and 9:00
a.m.
You are considered absent for the morning when you arrive after 9:00 a.m.
· Initially, parents will be notified of the student's tardiness/absenteeism by the school.
· If it continues, the Attendance Officer is then notified.
· Parents must call the school before 9:00 a.m. to report lateness or absences.
· Students must bring a note from parent/guardian when they are absent.
· The note must include student's name, date, days of absence, reason for absence, and parent's signature.
· Repeated tardiness and absenteeism will be reported to the attendance officer who will contact parents.
The following are classified as truancies:
· Absences from the school without knowledge and consent of the parent.
· Leaving the building during school day without permission.
· Staying out of class without permission.
UNEXCUSED ABSENCES AND TRUANCY ARE DISCIPLINARY MATTERS.
Early Dismissals
Students that
have to leave before the end of the school day must have a note from their
parent/guardian.
· Navy blue A‑line skirt (Max: 2" above the knee ‑ no higher) or shorts
· Blue Clearwater Polo Shirt
· White socks
· Solid brown or black shoes ‑ no boots/ no high heels.
· Heels can be no higher than 2".
· No ankle boots or sneakers under any circumstances.
· Girls wearing visible hair accessories: they should be light blue, navy blue, black or white.
· Navy blue A‑line skirt (Max., 2" above the knee ‑ no higher) or long pants
· White Shirt
· School Tie
· Navy blue blazer (with navy blue sweater on cold days)
· School crest must be worn on blazer
· Sweaters cannot be a substitute for blazers.
· Solid brown or black shoes no boots/ no high heels.
· Heels can be no higher than 2" .
· Polishable black/brown shoes only. No ankle boots or sneakers under any circumstances.
· Khaki pants (long or short)
· Blue Clearwater Polo Shirt
· Navy blue socks
· Solid brown or black shoes ‑ no boots
· Polishable black/brown shoes only. No ankle boots or sneakers under any circumstances.
· Navy blue long pants
· White Shirt
· School Tie
· Navy blue socks
· Navy blue blazer (with navy blue sweater on cold days)
· School crest must be worn on blazer
· Sweaters cannot be a substitute for blazers.
· Solid brown or black shoes no boots.
· Polishable black/brown shoes only. No ankle boots or sneakers under any circumstances.
Note:
All students can purchase the above items from the English Sports Shop with the exception of the school crests and ties, which can be purchased at the school. All students must be in the Clearwater Polo shirts in September and on the first Monday in May and winter uniform must be worn right after the November Half Term.
· P.E. uniforms can be purchased at the International Sports Shop.
· Students may wear a watch. Chains, bracelets and rings are not allowed and will be confiscated. Electronic music devices or games will also be, confiscated. Only parents may collect any confiscated items.
· Sneakers may be worn only for PE classes. (White sneakers only.)
· Girls are permitted to wear two single gold or silver small studs. One pair only to be worn in lower ear lobe.
· Boys are allowed to wear ONE single small gold/stud earring.
·
All
watches must be worn on the wrist.
LOCKERS AND PERSONAL VALUABLES
Students, NOT the school, are responsible for their personal property. Lockers are available to all students at the cost of $10 per year.
Clearwater Middle School Students, in school or out of school, are expected to be on their best behaviour at all times. Teachers and subject coordinators will deal with minor offences. Team leaders will handle major offences. The Principal and Deputy Principal will intervene in severe cases. The following behaviours are prohibited and may lead to severe penalties.
· Flagrant disrespect for teachers.
· Fighting on or near school property.
· Defacing or vandalizing school property.
· Possession or use of alcoholic beverages or drugs on school premises.
· Possession of cigarettes, matches, or lighters on school property.
· Stealing.
· Profanity or vulgar language or gestures.
· Wrestling, punching or rough play in the classrooms or corridors.
· Possession of radios, tapes, compact disc players, beepers, electronic games and toys.
· CHEWING GUM IS NOT ALLOWED IN SCHOOL.
At Clearwater Middle School, students may bring lunch to school or they may purchase lunch in the cafeteria.
The cafeteria at Clearwater Middle School provides a variety of hot lunches as well as salads.
Lunchtime is a time to eat, relax, and enjoy the company of friends.
APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOUR IS EXPECTED AT ALL TIMES.
-
Sit down at a table.
Put all trash in appropriate receptacles and all students have a turn to clean up.
Keep noise level at a minimum.
Cafeteria lines go one way.
Please exit the cafeteria by the appropriate door.
After lunch, students are expected to go outside for a little exercise and fresh air except when it is raining.
When the weather is warm, all students will enjoy the privilege of eating outdoors at the picnic tables.
Students are not allowed to go off the site to buy lunch.
CORRIDER RULES - (Keep Left. Keep Moving. Keep Quiet)
· Students must walk on the left side as they move from one class to another (3 mins.)
· Students must move quickly and quietly through the halls.
· Running and playing in the corridor is not permitted.
· Students must not eat in the corridors at lunchtime or when moving between classes.
· Students may go to the vending machine only at lunchtime.
· Students must have a hall pass when allowed out of class.
· Students may go to their lockers at times designated by their team leader.
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Language Arts/Drama
Business Education
Physical Education
Health Education
Design & Technology
Family Studies
Visual Art
Spanish
Music
Dance
Career
Education/Guidance
Advisory
Library Information
Learning Support
Functional Skills
Some of the subjects will be offered on a semester basis in a rotary fashion.
Students may ride their bicycles to school, but helmets are mandatory for your child's safety. A lock is also necessary for each bicycle.
PTA Executive
meetings are held at 6:00 p.m., the second Tuesday of each month.
PTA General meetings are held at 6:30 p.m. the
third Tuesday of each month.
A three ring
binder, three ring notebook ‑ M I, M2 & M3's ‑ a 3 ring binder, subject
dividers, binder paper, pens and pencils, ruler, coloured pencils, geometry
set, calculator and student agenda.
Each team will also inform parents of required tools for their year level.
The advisory program focuses on building relationships. It is intended to provide a consistent, caring environment under the guidance of a teacher.
All students will have the opportunity to participate in an activity/club program. Some of the clubs may require a fee for materials, entrance costs or transportation. Depending on the club, activities will run for half a semester or for the entire year. Participation in clubs may be suspended if disciplinary or academic expectations are not met.
Any change of address or phone number must be reported to the school secretary as soon as possible. It is absolutely imperative that emergency information be kept up‑to‑date so that a parent or guardian can be contacted immediately in case of an accident or extreme illness. Student illnesses such as asthma must be reported to the office immediately.
Whenever a fire alarm sounds during classes, teachers will lead their students to the nearest exit. All students must walk quietly and quickly. If a fire alarms sounds when classes are not in session, each student is to proceed immediately to the nearest exit. The Secretary must bring registers to the specific area where attendance will be taken.
THERE SHOULD BE NO TALKING AND NO HESITANCY IN LEAVING THE BUILDING DURING THESE DRILLS.
GUIDANCE SERVICES
At Clearwater Middle School, each student will be assigned a guidance counsellor. Your counsellor will assist you with any academic, personal or peer difficulties you may encounter.
Prefects will assist the teachers when the students are in line for assembly, bus, cafeteria, fire drills and any other duties that may be requested. Prefects will also be on duty at the main door in the morning and will answer the phone on a rotation basis during the Secretary's lunch period. Prefects are under the direction of the Guidance Department.
The Clearwater media centre provides access to a well‑rounded multimedia collection of print materials and the newest developments in educational technology. The centre houses computers with access to the internet, CD‑ROMs, encyclopaedias, books and magazines. The Teacher‑librarian, who also team teaches with respective teachers, will provide instruction on the use of these resources.
LOST AND FOUND /PERSONAL PROPERTY
Any items such as books and clothing, which are found, should be brought to the "Lost and Found bin." Items such as money, bus passes and other small items should be secured in lockers. Personal property is the student's responsibility. Students must assume responsibility for loss or damage of any school or personal property issued to or belonging to them.
Students are allowed to possess cellular telephones, but all phones must be turned off during the school day. If a student is on the property or in any classroom after school hours, the student must seek permission from the nearest teacher to use the phone. It is preferred that all external communication to or from a student be made through the office.
Additionally, portable radios, walkmans, CD players, cassette players/recorders, pagers are prohibited. All prohibited items on school property and during school hours will result in confiscation. Please refer to the Code of Conduct.
If any child is found in possession of an offensive weapon, it is the responsibility of the School to communicate that offence to the police under the terms of the Code of Conduct.
During the year, Clearwater Middle School Parent Teacher Association may sponsor evening socials. These socials may revolve around a theme, for example, Reading Night, Christmas Holidays, dances and games nights where students and teachers socialize together. The same rules, which govern student behaviour during the school day, apply at evening activities. (No gum, fighting etc.)
Student Achievement Recognition Program
All students are expected to work hard and he the best students they can be. Students who accept this challenge will be rewarded. Possible rewards are: Merits ‑ Merit Certificate Honour Roll Award ‑ Honour Roll Students at the end of each semester. Citizenship Awards and many others.
STUDENT COUNCIL
The student council is one of the governing bodies of our school. Students from all year levels are represented on the student council. The council consist of a President and Vice President ‑ M3 Students. Secretary and Treasurer‑ M2 Students. Advisory Representative. Students selected for these positions will be appointed. Student council meetings will be held regularly.
All students are responsible for textbooks and all other materials assigned to them. Textbooks are your responsibility and must be replaced or paid for if lost.
All textbooks will be checked periodically and must be returned to the school in good condition. If not, the student may be penalized.
Library books must be returned after two weeks. If lost, students must pay for the book.
Report cards may he withheld at the school each semester if library books are overdue.
The office telephones are for business only and PERSONAL CALLS MAY NOT BE MADE FROM THESE PHONES, except in emergencies and with the permission of office personnel. Students must pay 25 cents per phone call. Students may call parents from the telephone in the team rooms as directed by teachers. Parents must call the school and leave messages. Students are not allowed to receive calls.
Parents are always welcome to visit the school. All visitors to the school, including parents, should report to the main office first. Visitors must sign in with security and wear a visitor's badge. Students should not encourage friends to visit them at school.
Teachers are only allowed to administer medication prescribed by a doctor. A note from the parent or physician should accompany each medication. Teachers are not allowed to administer aspirin, or Tylenol, except with permission from a parent/guardian.
Rigid standards of discipline on buses must be maintained at all times in order to satisfy safety standards.
Failure to comply with the following rules will result in suspension from the bus.
· Students will line up to catch the bus.
· Students will follow the directions of the driver.
· Students will talk quietly. Loud voices and profanity are prohibited.
· Students will not eat or drink or chew gum on the buses.
· Students will not throw any objects in the bus or out of the bus windows.
· Bus drivers have the authority and the responsibility for maintaining order and providing a safe environment. Please refer to the Code of Conduct.
SCHOOL
POLICY FOR ACTIVITIES AND SPORTS
Students will be encouraged to participate in school activities and extracurricular activities. However, school rules, behaviour and work effort, including homework, will be determining factors. Students need to be taught discipline, respect, values and discretion.
Students' behaviour to staff and peers must be positive and courteous at all times, on and off the school premises.
STUDENTS MUST REALIZE THAT ACTIVITIES AND SPORTS ARE A PRIVILEGE AND A DECISION CAN BE REVERSED WITH LACK OF CONFORMITY TO SCHOOL RULES.
All students
should be in school uniform during school and when representing the school.
FULL PE KIT IS NECESSARY FOR ALL SPORTING ACTIVITIES.
Any student who misses three homework assignments will be asked to leave the school and return with a parent, guardian or responsible adult. All homework must be completed and handed in on time.
Homework is an extension of the school day. It provides students with the opportunity to reinforce the knowledge gained during the school day and leads to proficiency in the subject being taught. Homework is a part of a student's overall grade.
Homework assignments must be:
· Recorded in agendas.
· Signed by teachers.
· Signed by parents.
Make up assignments are the responsibility of the student. All homework must be up to date. Students who have missed homework assignments will not be allowed to represent the school.
Students are
encouraged to read widely and often. Parents are asked to ensure that
the material is wholesome, informative and that the student engages in reading
at least 20 minutes per night. Parents are encouraged to model good reading
habits in the home.
Students read to your parents and encourage them to read to you.
Limit the amount of TV and video/DVD movies you watch and the duration and
type of music played at home.
Encourage your family to participate in TV Turn‑off Week
Students are
encouraged to strive to be on the honour roll.
Principal's List: 3.91 ‑ 4.00
First Honours: 3.50‑3.90
Second Honours: 3.00 ‑ 3.49
Each letter grade is assigned a numerical value and the total is averaged to determine the Grade Point Average (G.P.A.)
A = 4
B = 3
C = 2
D = 1
F = 0
When arriving
at your grades, teachers will take the following into consideration:
Performance and Effort, Quizzes and tests, Homework, Projects, Dialogues,
Participation, Notebooks
Grading may vary slightly depending upon assignments given each quarter
Throughout the School Merits are given to reward positive behavior, good work habits, helpfulness, courtesy, improvement, etc. Demerits are given as a consequence for disruptiveness, lack of supplies, disrespect, excessive talking, etc.
The Merit System will be outlined in detail at the beginning of each school year.