937-9116, Ext. #3191
CODE OF CONDUCT
CONDUCT ON SCHOOL PROPERTY
Parents/Visitors are always welcome at Alden Intermediate School! Our school is a place of learning and guidelines are set for all visitors. All visitors must report immediately to the office of the principal when they arrive at the school. We ask all visitors to sign in at the office and wear a visitor badge while in the school. Parents/visitors who wish to observe a classroom while school is in session are required to arrange such visits in advance with Mr. Lyons and teacher so that class disruption is kept to a minimum. Visitors should not expect teachers to take class time to discuss individual matters unless it is prearranged. Any unauthorized person on school property will be reported to the principal. All visitors including regular parent volunteers are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly, respectful and confidential manner on school property. No person shall: a) intentionally injure or threaten any person; b) damage school property; c) disrupt the orderly conduct of school; d) intimidate or harass any person; e) obstruct free movement; f) possess or use alcoholic beverages, tobacco products, weapons or any controlled substance; g) loiter or gamble on school property; h) refuse to comply with any reasonable order of a school official; I) violate any federal, state or local statute; or j) use unacceptable language at any time.
STUDENT CONDUCT AND COURTESY
Our school expects all students to conduct themselves in an appropriate and civil manner, with proper regard for the rights and welfare of others. Students must learn to assume and accept responsibility for their own behavior, as well as the consequences of their behavior. Students may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including suspension from school, when they: a) engage in conduct that is disorderly, insubordinate, disruptive, violent or hurtful; b) engage in any conduct that endangers the safety, morals, health or welfare of others; c) engage in misconduct while on a school bus; d) engage in any forms of academic misconduct, or e) use any foul language.
DISCIPLINE
To guarantee an appropriate social and educational climate, it is important that students understand that acceptable standards of behavior will be expected at all times. Discipline will be administered when any individual’s actions interfere with the rights of teachers to teach and students to learn. Fighting and foul language are unacceptable. Arguments are never settled through the use of force. Students will be treated fairly. Discipline shall be based on a careful assessment of the circumstances of each case. The amount of due process a student is entitled to receive before a penalty is imposed depends on the penalty being imposed. Important factors include: a) Seriousness of the offense; b) Student’s age; c) Frequency of misconduct; d) Student’s attitude; and e) the potential effect of the misconduct on school safety and school environment. Discipline is most effective when it deals directly with the problem at the time it occurs, and in a way that students view as fair and impartial. Disciplinary action will be firm, fair, consistent and progressive. If the conduct of a student is related to a disability, the student shall be referred to the Committee on Special Education. Students who are found to have violated the school’s code of conduct may be subject to the following penalties, either alone or in combination: a) verbal warning; b) written warning; c) written notification to parents; d) detention; e) suspension from transportation, school activities or other privileges; f) in-school suspension; g) removal from classroom by teacher, or h) short-term, long-term or permanent suspension. A student’s behavior cannot affect a teacher’s ability to teach or make it difficult for other students in the classroom to learn.
On occasion, a student’s behavior may become disruptive. For purposes of this Code of Conduct, a disruptive student is a student who is substantially disruptive of the educational process or substantially interferes with the teacher’s authority over the classroom. A substantial disruption of the educational process or substantial interference with a teacher’s authority occurs when a student demonstrates a persistent unwillingness to comply with the teacher’s instructions or repeatedly violates the classroom behavior rules. A classroom teacher may call the Principal to remove a disruptive student from class. Due process and normal disciplinary procedures will be followed from that point. This Code of Conduct is also guided and supported by various State Laws and the District-wide Code of Conduct.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR
a) We arrive on time; b) We walk quietly in the halls; c) We follow classroom and school rules; d) We use good manners in all areas; e) We remove our hats and head coverings in the building; f) We do not chew gum in the building or on the bus; g) We respect the property of the school and other people; h) We use appropriate language at all times; i) We regularly use the words “please” and “thank you”; j) We do not settle arguments with physical force; k) We never use hurtful words; and l) We all treat each other with respect.
RESPECT
We expect every staff member to be treated with respect and dignity, just as the students should receive the respect of the staff. It is imperative that the teacher be in charge of the class. A show of disrespect toward a staff member, Principal or insubordination on the part of the student will not, under any circumstances, be tolerated. The staff is responsible for supervision of students anywhere on school property and while at school sponsored activities.
STUDENT RIGHTS
Our school is committed to safeguard the rights given to all students under state and federal law. All students have a right to: a) a safe, healthy, orderly and civil school environment; b) take part in all school activities of an equal basis; c) present their version of relevant events to school staff, and d) access and receive an explanation of school rules from school staff.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
All students have the responsibility to: a) contribute to maintaining a safe and orderly school environment; b) be familiar with and abide by all school policies; c) work to the best of their ability; d) obey directions by all school staff; e) ask questions when they do not understand; f) seek help in solving problems; g) dress appropriately for school and give proper attention to personal cleanliness; h) accept responsibility for their actions; i) conduct themselves as representatives of the school when participating in activities; and j) bring “good manners” to school and use them all day every day; j) attend school on a regular basis. (Refer to the District Policy manual for specific expectations and guidelines).
SCHOOL DRESS CODE
The home and the school need to cooperate in the matter of dress. School is the child’s place of business, and children who are dressed in appropriate school clothing seem to do a better job. Students are required to dress modestly. Their attire shall not be disruptive to the learning environment or opposed to predominant community standards. Students shall dress in a manner, which does not endanger the safety of themselves or others. When the type of clothing worn or the way in which it is worn causes a distraction or disruption in the school, the student wearing such apparel will be asked to change.
a) Headgear may not be worn in school, except for students who have a medical related need. We ask that adults also observe this rule.
- Coats, hats, jackets, hoods or other outerwear should not be worn in the building during regular school hours except in cases of extremely cold weather.
- Clothing that is disruptive to the learning environment is not acceptable. (Examples: halter tops, short shorts, “spandex” style clothing, mini skirts, clothing depicting obscene words or graphics, clothing with drug, tobacco or alcohol endorsement messages).
- Wearing shorts is allowable depending on weather conditions.
LANGUAGE
The use of improper or profane language by anyone, in school and/or at school activities is prohibited. Offenders may be excluded from classes or from school.
ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE
a) We come to class prepared with materials and supplies, and use the agenda/planner daily; b) We listen, pay attention and follow directions; c) We complete daily classwork and homework assignments on time; d) Everyone expects and accepts that we all do our best at all times. Quality work is expected at all times.
BUS CONDUCT
Students are expected to obey all safety rules. a) Students will be seated at all times except when entering or exiting the bus; b) Conversation voices will be used during the bus ride; c) No hands, heads or any body part is to be outside a bus window; d) Snacks and drinks are not allowed on the bus; e) Follow safety rules when crossing in front of the bus. Wait for the driver’s signal to cross; f) Keep hands, feet and arms to yourself and g) Follow driver directions at all times, h) Use appropriate language on the bus.
BUS CONDUCT REPORTS
Drivers will use a written Bus Conduct Report in cases of severe behavior problems. A copy of this report is sent to the parent, Transportation Supervisor, bus driver and retained in the student’s file. Students will receive consequences for unsafe and/or inappropriate behavior while on the bus. Parents will be contacted if a student receives a Bus Conduct Report or is to be suspended from the bus or placed in after school detention. We believe that all students have the ability to improve their conduct. We strive to help students develop responsibility for their actions and improve their behavior.
CAFETERIA CONDUCT
A healthy breakfast and lunch are available to students. The monthly menu will provide selection and price information. The cafeteria should be a place where students may eat in a pleasant atmosphere. Everyone needs to make this possible by exhibiting good manners and by observing the rules listed below:
a) Follow the directions of all adults.
b) Sit at your assigned table. Do not leave your seat without permission.
c) Students are allowed out of their seats only when buying extra lunch items.
d) All food and beverage must be consumed in the cafeteria. Food is not to be taken out of the cafeteria if the student has not finished.
f) All tables and the floor area near tables should be clean when you leave.
g) Students must sign out and have a pass in the event of a lavatory emergency.
Students should use the lavatory before coming to lunch.
- Students should not throw food and supplies.
- Silence is expected when the lights are turned off. Use quiet conversation voices at all times.
- Treat each other and the monitors with courtesy, respect and consideration.
- Students should keep their hands and feet to themselves as well as use polite language.
PLAYGROUND CONDUCT
The playground is a great place for physical and social activity. Students are expected to refrain from hitting, wrestling, punching, kicking or any other negative contact. Students are expected to use good judgment regarding the safety of everyone in the area. Students are to remain in view of the teacher or staff on duty at all times. Permission must be obtained if a student needs to leave the play area. Equipment is to be shared and all people should be treated with respect.
ASSEMBLY CONDUCT
Everyone should remember to enter the auditorium or performance area in an orderly manner. Courtesy and consideration for performers, speakers as well as other people should be practiced at all times. Clapping is acceptable as a sign of appreciation. Loud remarks, shouting, booing, or whistling are not allowed and will result in removal. Eating or gum chewing is not allowed during any assembly in the auditorium or the gymnasium at any time.
BRINGING THINGS TO SCHOOL
The only time children should bring toys, games, etc. to school is when their teacher instructs them and has the teacher’s permission. The students will assume responsibility for any item brought to school. Students are not to bring tape recorders, walkmans, radios, sports equipment, pokemon cards, CD players, any trading cards, videos, video games, pagers, cellphones, I-pods, walkmans or yu-gi-oh cards. The school will not assume responsibility for any items that are lost, stolen, ruined or destroyed.
STUDENT HANDBOOK
SCHOOL DAY Regular School Hours (Grades 3 – 5) 9:05 – 3:15 Student Arrival 8:45 – 8:55; Student Dismissal 3:15 |
SCHOOL ARRIVAL
Classes begin at 9:05 A.M. We ask that students arrive at school between 8:45 – 8:55 A.M. Students should not arrive earlier than 8:45 A.M. unless they are meeting with a specific teacher. Adult supervision begins at 8:45. Please do not drop off children by the North Door (playground entrance). The school buses utilize the North driveway each morning and afternoon. Children can be dropped off or picked up by the main front entrance, in the parking lot off of Park Street or in the loop area. The loop between Crittenden Road and Park Street was designed for drop-off and pick-up, not for short or long-term parking. Our breakfast program begins at 8:45 in the school cafeteria. Students participating in the breakfast program may go directly to the cafeteria at 8:45. Students should go directly to their classrooms after breakfast is completed.
DISMISSAL/REQUESTS TO LEAVE EARLY
A request to have a child excused from classes early should be sent with the child on the morning of the dismissal. The date, time and reason for leaving school should be included. A child will be released only to the parents unless the school has been notified in writing by the parents that they have granted permission for someone else to pick up their child. Unanticipated changes in the usual afternoon dismissal procedure must be made by contacting the Main office before 1:00 P.M. Otherwise the usual dismissal procedure will be followed. The parents or authorized person must come to the Intermediate School office to sign the child out. Identification may be requested.
ATTENDANCE AND LATENESS
Students are expected to attend every school day. If a student must be absent due to illness, the student must bring a written excuse from their parent on the day they return. All students who arrive after 9:05 are to report to the Attendance Office. Arriving after 9:05 will be recorded as tardy. Parents are encouraged to make every effort to make any necessary medical and dental appointments after school hours. If appointments are made during the school day, be sure to send a note on the day of the appointment. Requests for homework when a student is absent must be made to the Main Office by 9:30 A.M. with a pick-up time between 3:00 P.M. and 4:00 P.M. Our Attendance Office can be reached by calling 937-9116, Ext. #3116. The Attendance Office can be reached at any time (24 hours a day/7 days a week).
DISTRICT MEDICATION POLICY
Whenever possible, medications should be administered at home. If it is absolutely necessary for your child to receive medication during the school day, or for emergency medication to be kept at school, these instructions MUST be followed for all prescribed and over-the-counter medications:
- A written note from the attending physician on letterhead must be presented with complete instructions. The note can be faxed to the Health Office (Fax (716- 937-3376).
- A written parental consent must accompany the medication, and include the health problem, which necessitates the medication.
- Medications should be in the original pharmacy unbreakable container and must be properly labeled with the following information: a) Child’s name; b) Name of medication; c) Dosage of medication; d) Time medication is to be administered; and e) Only a daily or weekly medicine supply should be brought to the school by the parent;
- For those students on a medication regimen year after year, a new physician’s order and parent consent is mandatory at the beginning of each school year.
Medication policy guidelines as well as medication administration forms are available from Mrs. Susan Rebmann, our School Nurse in the Health Office (937-9116, Ext. #3118). Please request a form from the School Nurse or contact her with any questions you may have.
REPORT CARDS/CONFERENCES
Report cards will contain both academic and effort grades. Conduct is also evaluated. Grades include teacher assessments for classwork and homework. Tests, quizzes, participation in class, projects, reports and classroom observation are also included in academic areas. The following grade reporting/marking guidelines will be utilized.
Grade – Numerical Conversion
A 94 – 100 - Superior Performance B 87 – 93 - Above Average Performance C 80 – 86 - Average Performance D 75 – 79 - Below Average Work U 74 and Below – Unable to Meet Minimum Standards |
Regularly scheduled conferences are held at the 10 week and 30 week marking periods. It is advisable for parents and teachers to confer at any time that there are problems in academic, social or emotional areas. Please contact the school office to request an appointment (between 7:30 A.M. – 4:00 P.M.) at 937-9116, Ext. #3191. Please do not make visits without appointments. It is unfair to ask teachers for quick answers without adequate time to refer to records.
STUDENT VISITATIONS
Student visits are not encouraged as they disrupt the normal classroom routines. If a parent would like a relative or friend to visit, they must receive permission from the student’s teacher and Mr. Lyons at least one week in advance of the visit. The visiting student must be close in age to the parent’s child. Visits will be limited to one day maximum. Any student who is disruptive, may be asked to leave at any time during the day. If transportation is needed, this must be provided by the student’s parents.
NOTES – STUDENT VISITS
The office is extremely busy at the end of the school day and we get many students who forget notes that are needed if they wish to visit at someone else’s house. Each child needs a note so that we are sure that both families have agreed to the arrangements. If notes are not sent in, students will be sent on their usual route home.
CLASS TRIPS
Throughout the school year, field trips may be scheduled for academic enrichment and special purposes. All students are expected to accompany their class on field trips. Every effort will be made to keep costs to a minimum. Students with poor behavior records may need to be accompanied by a parent or may not be allowed to participate in the field trip.
SELLING
Only school approved fund raisers are allowed. No student shall sell or trade any products or goods to other students.
SNACKS
Each class has a scheduled snack time based on the time of his/her assigned lunch period. A snack is to be a small nutritious healthy item of food and should not be taken out of the classroom. No drinks or snacks may be taken on the bus.
TEXTBOOK FEES
Students are responsible to the school for the proper care of textbooks. Students must pay for lost or damaged textbooks. All textbooks should be covered to prevent damage. Students are required to pay fines for damaged textbooks in accordance to the age of the book and the amount of the damage. In cases where the damage is so extensive as to render the book unusable or that the book is lost, the full cost of replacing the book will be collected. Each student shall return all textbooks and library books issued to him or her when leaving the school, or at the end of the school year in late June.
PAYMENT OF FEES
The school will loan lunch money in an emergency. Money loaned should be returned on the next school day. Children should see a lunch monitor if a loan is needed. Please be prompt with money requested for pictures, field trips or extra activities. All money should be sent in a sealed envelope and clearly marked, ex. student’s name, teacher’s name, amount, purpose, etc.
FIRE DRILLS AND CODE DRILLS
Fire drills are necessary for the safety of the students and staff. Everyone should know the specific directions for reaching a point of safety from those areas of the building in which he/she may be located. Specific information for fire drills is posted in each room.
TELEPHONE, ADDRESS CHANGE AND STUDENT USE OF PHONE
Please notify the Intermediate School Office immediately if there is a change in your address, telephone number, babysitter, cell phone number or person to contact in an emergency. Parents will be asked to complete an updated Student Information form. This information is very important in case your child becomes ill or injured. Our phone number is 937-9116, Ext. #3191. The school phone is for business purposes. Students will be allowed to use the phone in emergencies only. There is a pay phone available near the gymnasium for adults to utilize.
Alden Central School District
13190 Park Street
Alden, New York 14004
(716) 937-9116
