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2003-2004 Student/Parent Handbook

Download the 2003-2004 Student/Parent Handbook in Word 2000 Format

Meissner Mission Statement

Because we believe that a safe and supportive environment promotes learning, we at Meissner Elementary will strive to:

* Encourage all students to take responsibility for their learning and actions.

* Provide an atmosphere that encourages everyone to respect themselves and others.

* Strive to provide an environment that allows children to develop to the best of their abilities.



Amendments may be added periodically to this handbook by the administrative team with School Board approval.



Faculty / Staff
2002 - 2003

Office

Mr. M. Brad Skertich, Principal
Mrs. Rhonda Whitworth, Office Manager
Mrs. Joni Hebblethwaite, Administrative Assistant / Cafeteria Cashier

Teachers

Location Grade Name and Subject Area

Duelm Bldg.- 001 3 Mrs. Cindy Pirok
Duelm Bldg.- 003 3 Mrs. Rita Craig
Main level - 102 4 Mrs. Dawn Gockel-Jones
Main level - 104 4 Mrs. Joan Wood
Upper level - 201 5 Mrs. Sue Doerr - Math, Reading
Upper level - 202 5 Mrs. Denise Hainaut - Science, Social Studies
Upper level - 203 5 Mrs. Phylis Cox - English, Spelling
Upper level - 204 6 Mrs. Barb Augustine - Reading, Social Studies,
Upper level - 205 6 Mrs. Deborah Spurgeon - Science, Math, Spelling
Upper level - 206 6 Mrs. Diana Perdun - English, Spelling
Upper level - 212 8 Mrs. Nancy Bennett - English, Literature
Gym - 101 3 - 8 Mr. Bill Cooper - Physical Education
Gym - 101 3 - 8 Mr. David Pitts - Health, Physical Education
Main level - 110 3 - 8 Mrs. Michelle Mueller - Technology
Band Bldg. 304 5 - 8 Mr. Gary Dollinger - Band, Music
Main level - 103 7& 8 Mrs. Jan Cloud - Science
Main level - 112 7& 8 Mrs. Lori Schmidt - English, Literature
Upper level - 210 7 & 8 Mrs. Linda White - Algebra, Civics, Math
Upper level - 207 7 & 8 Mr. Stan Piotrowski - Geography, History, Economics
Upper level - 212 7 & 8 Mrs. Jill Pembrook - Health
Main level - 105 3 - 8 Mrs. Rebecca Tuchalski - Chorus, Music
Portable Building Elementary Mrs. Brandy Buske - BD








Special Education

Main level - 100 Miss. Stephanie Kershaw - L.D. Resource
Lower level - 116 Mrs. Kay Brooks - Title I
Main level - 114 Mr. Randy Houston - L.D. Resource
Lower level - 115 Mrs. Luella Rust - Speech
Main level - 106 Mrs. Kay James - Elementary Art & Gifted Program

Support Staff

Main level - 108 Mrs. Gail Nelson - District Nurse
Main level - 109 Mrs. Jolene Segura - Counselor, Social Worker
Upper level - 208 Mrs. Nancy Bennett - Media Director Office
Upper level - 209 Mrs. Louise Moore - Library Clerk


Aides

B. D. Mrs. Jan Zinkin

Transportation / Building

Director Mr. Greg Lievers
Custodian Mrs. Sharon Fichera - Evening
Custodian Mrs. Barb Gill-Bailey - Evening
Custodian / Maintenance Mr. Roger Hayes - Daytime
Maintenance Mr. Martin Heimer - Daytime
Maintenance Mr. Ed Heinemeier - Part-time

Lunchroom / Playground Monitors

Mrs. Lisa Rose
Mrs. Sherry Mellenthin
Mrs. Nancy Mott

Lunchroom Personnel

Manager Mrs. Pam Davis
Cashier Mrs. Joni Hebblethwaite, Karen Henfling
Cook Mrs. Carolyn Stadelman, Mrs. Donna Lawrence
Mrs. Paula Enke
Dishwasher Mrs. Diane Farris


Academic


This handbook may not contain all the rules that students may be expected to follow. The athletic department, band, chorus, clubs, and other extracurricular groups may have additional rules and expectations..

Student Fees

Student Fees are $40 for the 3rd thru 6th Grade and $50 for 7th and 8th Grade. These
fees include the $5 Computer Lab fee.

Band/Chorus Requirements

Scheduled performances are a requirement of the course for a grade..

Classroom Rules

All teachers will determine the rules of their classrooms.

Closed Campus

Meissner Junior High School has a "closed campus." All students are to remain on campus. Parents requesting a student to be allowed to go home for lunch must contact the office to make arrangements.

Computers

Students who are found to be misusing computer equipment by entering inappropriate sites, sending inappropriate messages, hacking into programs or systems that are unauthorized or otherwise tampering with disks and/or stored information, will lose their privilege to utilize computers at school, may be removed from any computer classes in which they are enrolled, and may face additional disciplinary action.

Students are prohibited from the use of chat rooms and messanger services (ex. MSN or
AOL Instant Messenger).

Conflicting School Events

If students are scheduled to participate in two school activities whose times overlap or conflict, the following guidelines will determine the event in which the student should participate.


1. A class related activity (e.g. field trip, science project fair, chorus or band performance) will take precedence over an extracurricular practice or performance.
2. A performance, contest, or game takes precedence over a practice or rehearsal.
3. If two performances or two practices or rehearsals are in conflict, the student may choose either without penalty as long as he or she informs both teachers, coaches, or sponsors of the choice a day in advance. Failure to inform the teacher, coach, or sponsor in writing may result in the student suffering the normal consequences for a failure to show up.
4. If there are continual schedule conflicts between two activities, either sponsor, teacher, or coach may ask for the student to choose between the activities with the advice and consent of the building principal.

Field Trips

Field trips are for educational purposes. They will be designed to enlarge the students' understanding of what has been studied in the classrooms. Any student who has a history of major discipline problems may be excluded from attending the field trip.

If a student is to be absent from class due to such things as field trips, participation in athletic activities, drama, music, or other school activities, the student will be responsible for obtaining and completing class assignments prior to absence.

Grades

About midway in each nine-week grading period, progress reports/midterms are sent to parents of all students. These progress reports are signed by the parent and returned to the teacher. Parents who wish to confer with a teacher should make an appointment through the office.

Grades will be calculated on a 12 point scale with each letter grade divided into pluses
and minuses.

100 A+ 12 83 - 84 C+ 6
95 - 99 A 11 79 - 82 C 5
93 - 94 A- 10 77 - 78 C- 4
91 - 92 B+ 9 75 - 76 D+ 3
87 - 90 B 8 72 - 74 D 2
85- 86 B- 7 70 - 71 D- 1
69 - 0 F 0

Honor Roll

An honor roll is provided for grades six, seven, and eight. Students earning this honor must have a grade average of "B" with no grade lower than a "C". All subjects are involved when figuring the honor roll.

A high honor roll will be reported for students who have an "A" average for the quarter.

A principal's list will be prepared for students with Straight "A's."

Incomplete Work

An incomplete (I) in any course must be removed within three weeks after the close of a quarter or the student will receive a failing grade in that course. This time period may be extended by the principal for unusual circumstance. Incomplete is only allowed when the student can offer a valid reason for not having completed course work in the required time.

Parent / Teacher Conferences

Parent/teacher conferences are scheduled at the end of the first quarter. If a parent needs to consult with a teacher at any other time, the parent should call the office for an appointment.

Physical Education

Students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades do not dress for P.E. but must have gym shoes: no slip on shoes will be allowed. Girls and boys in these grades should wear appropriate clothing.

Boys and girls in grades 6th, 7th, and 8th do "dress out" for P.E.

P.E. clothes for junior high consist of royal or navy gym shorts with the student's name marked on the right leg, a Meissner or white "T" shirt clearly marked with the student's name on the back, socks (white or with colored stripes at the top), and gym shoes (no slip-on canvas shoes). Sweat suits, of any color, are optional and must be worn only during the class and over the P.E. uniform.


P.E. clothing is to be taken home over the weekends to be washed.

Grades for this class will be based upon, (1) "dressing out", (2) "attitude", (3) knowledge as exhibited on written tests, and (4) "skill tests".
Dress cuts will bring about a detention for lack of preparation. A dress cut indicates a part of the P.E. uniform or the student's name is missing. After two (2) dress cuts, points will be given for each dress cut thereafter.
3 DRESS CUTS = 1 PT.
4 DRESS CUTS = 2 PTS.
5 DRESS CUTS = 3 PTS EVERY DRESS CUT AFTER 5 = 3 PTS.
Remember, P.E. is a class and as such is required by law of all students with the exceptions of health, physical injury, or specific verified reasons.

Students may be excused from class as follows:

A. Temporarily - One or two days at a time, at the discretion of the teacher based on a note from the parents or an obvious physical difficulty. Under these circumstances, a student will not participate.
B. Extended period - Several days, weeks, etc, a student will be excused only on the basis of a doctor's signed statement presented to teacher, nurse, or office.

Retentions and Promotions

Meissner students who are having difficulty with academic progress shall be monitored as early in the school year as possible. Parent/teacher conferences shall be held on an indicated need basis. All first semester grades shall be screened by the principal. Parents of any student with two or more failing grades ("F") shall be notified by mail. At the end of the third quarter, letters will again be sent to the parents of the students in danger of retention.

Criteria to be considered as a basis for retention or promotion shall include:

1. An expectation that by taking this action the child will benefit by acquiring needed skills and knowledge..
2. Failure in course work based upon final grades.
a. in 2 or more subjects for grades 3rd. through 5th.
b. in 3 or more semesters for grades 6th. through 8th.
3. Attendance records - students who have more than 10 % absences during one school year shall be reviewed.
4. Testing and/or interview data.
5. Maturation level
6. Students failing the Illinois and/or the U.S. Constitution tests will be retained
until they retake and pass the test(s) during the summer (Study materials will
be provided).


NOTE: Meissner Elementary curriculum is aligned with the learning standards established by the State of Illinois.
At the end of the second semester, the principal shall have semester grades checked and will confer with other certified personnel directly in contact with the student to determine whether the student shall be promoted or retained. The decision shall be jointly supported by all who are involved in the decision. A special committee of principal, counselor, and L.D. teacher will determine promotion/retention of students with special circumstances. In the case of retention, parents shall be notified by mail. Students who are retained may be referred for an educational evaluation for possible resource assistance.

STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

Student Assistance Program Mission Statement:
It is the mission of the Bunker Hill Community Unit School District #8 Student Assistance Program (SAP) to identify at-risk students, intervene with, and make appropriate referrals in the school and follow through with at-risk youth in the areas of behavior, academics, health, and attendance to increase the success of each student.

What is a Student Assistance Program?
There are a number of factors that may contribute to keeping students from experiencing success in school. Among these are problems with learning, socialization, substance abuse, family dynamics, peer pressure, and school environment.

A Student Assistance Program is a school-based early intervention program for students who are having difficulty being successful in school. A Student Assistance Program focuses on all students in the school.

In order to help the student become more successful in school, the Student Assistance Program uses a systematic approach in determining what problems are being experienced, determining a variety of steps to help the students be more successful, and implementing a process to help the student. The team begins this process when the Student Assistance Core Team, a team who cares about what is happening with a student's school experience, receives a referral. That referral may come from a parent, a staff member at the school, a friend of the student, or the student him or herself.

Although everyone in the Bunker Hill School District is involved in the Student Assistance Process, the Student Assistance intervention core team consists of about 4-8 staff members in each building. The purpose of this team is to talk to those in the school who have contact with the child on a regular basis as well at talk with the student.





Parents
As the team begins to look at what the school experience is like for your child, they need your input. The process most often works at its best when parents work along with the team to create the best educational opportunities for the child.

The Student Assistance Team may contact you if the team receives a referral for your child. Rest assured that your child is not 'in trouble with the school' when the referral is received.

There are times, also, when almost every parent feels in need of additional support in helping his or her child improve the school experience.

If a child appears to be dealing with medical problems or mental health problems, it is usually best to consult with the family physician or other professional trained in the specific area of the problem. The Student Assistance Program is not designed to take the place of medical, mental health, or substance abuse professionals. A Student Assistance Program, however, may be able to help with how those problems are affecting the student's progress in school after professional help has been received.

When Should I Contact the Student Assistance Program about my child?
It is often helpful to look at patterns of behavior rather than looking at an isolated incident. Some questions that may be useful in looking at those patterns are:

à Has there been an overall drop in grades over a period of time?
à Have overall study habits changed?
à Have there been increased absences or tardiness?
à Has my child complained more about problems in school?
à Has there been a change in my child's peer group?
à Has my child's overall hygiene changed?
à Has my child seemed to develop a disinterest in school?
à Has there been an increase in discipline referrals?
à Are there indications of possible alcohol use, marijuana use, inhalant use, or other drug use?
à Does my child's motivation appear to be different than in the past?

Can I call the Student Assistance Program in our school when I think my child may need help?
Simply call the school and say, "I would like to talk to a member of the Student Assistance Team." Tell the team member about your concerns, and that you would like to make a referral to the team. Remember that you are working with the team designed to promote student success.





If I call the school, does that mean everyone in the school is going to know what is happening with my child?
Teams that have been trained in Student Assistance frequently hear the phrase, "Confidentiality Equals Respect". Teams are trained to discuss information on a 'need to know' basis. Team members are trained to focus on what is in the best interest of the child and to follow Federal Confidentiality requirements.


Criteria for Summer School

Availability of summer school is decided on an annual basis by the Bunker Hill School District #8. Therefore, every effort should be made to successfully complete core subjects during the school year. Summer school is intended for remediation.

The principal will use the following criteria when considering students for summer
school placement.

1. Students must pass 3 of 5 academic classes.
2. Students will maintain regular attendance.
3. Students demonstrate effort in completing assignments in subjects in
need of remediation.

Summer School Rules

1. Students can miss not more than three days.
2. Two tardies will equal one absence.

Attendance

Absence, Pre-Arranged

If a student has an anticipated absence planned, he or she should follow these procedures:

1. Parents should notify the principal's office at least 48 hours prior to the absence. Parents must send a written note to the principal's office indicating the days of absence prior to the absence.

2. Student is required to bring an assignment form around to each of his/her teachers
and obtain all homework assignments for the days of anticipated absence(s). It is
the responsibility of the teacher to sign-off on all homework assignments given..
3. THE MAKE-UP WORK IS DUE ON THE FIRST DAY THE STUDENT
RETURNS FROM THE ANTICIPATED ABSENCE. ALL QUIZZES
AND/OR TESTS MUST ALSO BE MADE UP ON THE DAY OF RETURN.

It is the responsibility of the parents to see that their children are in school regularly. To accomplish the educational objectives and accommodate special family needs, the preceding attendance policy was developed.

Absence, Excused

Students should understand that the principal is the only person who can excuse absences. Parents/guardians must provide reasons for absences to the school building principal.

PARENTS MAY REQUEST HOMEWORK FOR STUDENTS WHO ARE ABSENT. HOMEWORK MUST BE REQUESTED BY 9:00 A.M. IN ORDER TO BE PICKED UP BY 3:10 P.M.


If an absence is excused, the student may make up work for full credit. It is the student's responsibility, not the teacher's, to see that make-up work is obtained from the teacher and handed in on time. STUDENTS ARE ALLOWED A GRACE PERIOD OF ONE SCHOOL DAY FOR EACH DAY MISSED. Valid cause for absence shall be:

1. Death in the immediate family
2. Serious illness in the immediate family
3. Illness of the student with a note from parent or guardian
4. Illness of the student with doctor's note
5. Medical or dental appointments for the student which cannot be taken care of after school or on weekends.


After a student has missed 10 or more days in the school year they will be required to produce a doctors excuse from that day forth or the absence will be unexcused.

Students with EXTENDED EXCUSED ABSENCES ( an extended excused absence is defined as more than three school days) are allowed a grace period of one school day for each day missed to turn in makeup work up to a maximum of 5 days. If this privilege is abused, alternate plans will be devised by the teacher to expedite make-up work.

Absence, Unexcused

Students with unexcused absences are encouraged to make up the work assigned, but no credit will be given.

Out of School suspension is an unexcused absence. Students are encouraged to make up their work so they can stay current with their classmates, but no credit will be given for any assignments or tests that occurred during the time of suspension.

Absences/Tardiness

The school code for the State of Illinois requires that we contact the parents of absent students by telephone. To help facilitate this procedure, it would be most helpful when a student is absent for parents to notify the school office the morning of the absence. Please call 585-4464 or 585-3222 between 7:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. if possible.

When students return to school after being absent, they must present to the office a note from their parents stating the reason they were absent.

An attendance award will be given at the end of the school year to those students who have not been absent for any part of a day and who have not been tardy.

If students are tardy to school, they should report to the office with a note explaining the tardiness. Tardiness to other classes will be handled by the classroom teacher.

Truancy

A student is considered truant if he/she is absent from school all day or any part of the day without prior knowledge and consent of either parent/guardian or the school. This may include being absent from a class or other assigned area anytime during the school day, including before school and lunch.


A chronic truant is a student who is absent without valid cause for 10 % or more of the regular school attendance days, as stated in Section 26-2a of the Illinois School Code.
The following basic steps are followed when a student is chronically truant from school:

1. Contact with the parent/guardian by phone, letter, or personal visit.
2. Documentation and notice to truancy official of the regional superintendent's office.
3. Notification to:

a. The local police
b. State's Attorney for prosecution






BUS

Bus, Activities

Students will be required to ride the school bus to the activity and return to the loading are except as listed below:

A student may be allowed to ride home with his/her parent if that
parent/guardian has made a written request to the coach, sponsor, or
person in charge 24 hours in advance of the event. The parent's/guardian's
written request or signature constitutes the parent accepting responsibility
for the child from the time permission is granted and relieves the school
from that responsibility.

The only other exceptions will be dire emergencies, injury, accidents, illness,
death in the family, or urgent necessity in which arrangement by a parent or
guardian has been made with the coach or sponsor.

Bus Cameras

For the purpose of supervision and student safety, school buses are monitored by video cameras. Students who violate bus rules and regulations are subject to removal from the bus.

Bus Discipline Procedure

Bus discipline procedures are described in the Bunker Hill School District No. 8 section of the parent/student handbook. Bus disciplines may be reassigned to the discipline described in the student handbook.

Bus Discipline Procedure-Special Education - Trainable Mentally Handicapped (T.M.H.)

1. When a trainable mentally handicapped student displays inappropriate behavior on the bus, it is recommended that the driver notify the child's teacher and the transportation director.


2. It is suggested that the special education teacher deal with discipline in a manner appropriate to the student's disability and notify the parent or guardian of the misbehavior.




3. It is suggested, if the misbehavior continues, that a meeting will be set up with the parent(s) or guardian(s), the transportation director, and the building principal.

Note: a. The driver and aide should be aware of any medical conditions or special circumstances of students. The information will be provided by the parent(s)/guardian(s), and given to the appropriate building principal.

b. All other special education students follow regular bus behavior guidelines.


Bus Riding

Students living in town may ride school buses from one attendance center to another on a space available basis. These students must abide by the same rules as the regular riders.

General Discipline Procedures

Care of School Property

Anyone who destroys school property through vandalism, arson, or larceny, or creates a hazard to the safety of other students will be referred to the proper law enforcement agency and be subject to school disciplinary action. Persons responsible for damaging school property shall be responsible for the replacement or repair of such property. It is the student's responsibility to respect school property, maintain neat lockers, and maintain proper care of books.

Destruction of Property/Stealing

Replacement of property or replacement cost and disciplinary action may be assigned.

Discipline Actions

Meissner Elementary students are expected to respect the rights and property of others. Meissner Junior High School has established a point value system which is assigned to acts of misconduct. Following is a list of offenses, point values, and resulting disciplinary actions. The building principal may add additional points depending on severity of the act. In addition a record of misconduct and accumulated points will be kept and used to evaluate chronic misconduct. Once a student has accumulated 11 points, a notice will be sent to his/her parents stating that the student's next violation will initiate the four step process indicated in the point system plan.


1 point =one 3:30 detention
2 points =one 4:00 detention
3 points =one 3:30 detention and one 4:00 detention
12 points accumulated=discipline has a four step process (listed below).





1st. Step First time student accumulates 12 points = 1 day out-of-school suspension.
(Student must meet with parent, staff, and building principal).
2nd. Step Second time student accumulates 12 points (24 Total Points) = 3 days out-of-school suspension.
(Student must meet with parent, staff, and building principal).
3rd. Step Third time student accumulates 12 points (36 Total Points)
= 5 days out-of-school suspension.
(Student must meet with parent, staff, building principal, and district superintendent).
4th. Step Fourth time student accumulates 12 points (48 Total Total Points)= 10 days out-of-school suspension.
(Building principal recommendation for expulsion).

Zero tolerance offenses = ten days out-of-school suspension
(Recommendation to the School Board for expulsion).

Discipline Offenses

1. Cellular telephones, pager (beepers), Laser pointers - (3 points)
2. Cheating - (2 points)
3. Engaged in or furtherance of gang related activity. - (3 points)
4. Fighting - (3 points)
5. Forgery - (3 points)
6. General misconduct- (1, 2, 3 points)
7. Harassment - (2, 3 points)
8. Insubordination - (3 points)
9. Skipping classes and/or violation of closed campus (2, 3 points)
10. Smoking on school property or possession of tobacco products - (3 points)
One day out-of-school suspension
11. Tardies (late during passing time) - (1 point)
12. Inappropriate language or gestures - (3 points)
14. P.E. Dress Cuts - (1, 2, 3 points)

15. Zero-tolerance offenses
* Alcohol - Consumption of, use of, possession of, or under the influence of alcoholic beverage on school property or during school sponsored activities.
* Arson
* Bomb threat or tampering with fire alarm equipment.

* Drugs - Consumption of, use of, sale of, possession of, or under the influence of controlled substances, or cannabis (as defined by Illinois Controlled Substances Act and Cannabis Control Act) or look-alike substances, on school property or at school sponsored events.
* Fireworks and explosive devices
* Improper use or display of any dangerous items such as a knife, lighter, chemical spray, any form of small weapons, such as a pocket knife.
* Physical assault
* Possession of a, real or look-alike, firearm or dangerous weapon
* Vandalism, theft
* Threats or any act that endangers the well-being of another person.
16. Discipline offenses not listed above will be assigned points at the discretion of the building principal. The building principal may also make adjustments in the points assigned to the discipline offense(s), depending on the severity of the act.
17. Students who commit what might be considered minor infractions, but because of their frequency accumulate excessive numbers of discipline reports will be reviewed by the building principal and appropriate action taken.

Discipline Procedure

1. A discipline report for each discipline action taken will be given to the student for the parent to sign.
It is the responsibility of the student to see that the signed report form is returned to school.
2. Parents/guardians will be advised of any action involving suspensions (in-school or out-of-school) either by phone or letter prior to the action implemented. In cases of fights and/or other severe infractions where there is possible danger to the student or others, the student will be sent home or released immediately to the parent or person designated by the parent.
3. Unserved detentions and suspensions at the end of the year will be held over and served at the beginning of the next school year.


Discipline Review Committee

A committee of teachers, parents, and students will be appointed each year. They will meet during the 4th quarter to review the discipline procedures as set forth in this handbook. This committee will have the authority to make recommendations to the principal to revise the point system (with prior board approval) anytime during the school year if they deem it necessary.

Dress Code
Students are expected to be neat, clean, and fully dressed in good taste at all times. Appearance should not disrupt the educational program or violate a health safety, or decency aspect of school operations. Any student whose appearance and dress is considered to be disruptive to the educational process or dangerous to himself/herself or others, will be sent home to make the necessary adjustment. If a student is sent home to change his/her clothes, the time spent away from school shall be made up and disciplinary action shall be taken.

These dress rules apply at all school functions, activities or sporting events, whether at Bunker Hill Schools or any away school function, activities, or sporting events. Since it is not possible to list all infractions of this rule, it will be the responsibility of the faculty and principal to determine what is inappropriate.

Sexual Harassment

Any student who believes he/she has been subjected to sexual advances, request for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct or communications constituting sexual harassment as defined and otherwise prohibited by state and federal law may file a complaint with a school staff member who shall promptly refer the matter to the superintendent for investigation. It is recommended that concerned individuals refer to the Bunker Hill CUSD #8 parent/student handbook for more details.

Misc. Information

Accidents


Every accident in the school building, during school sponsored activity, at practice sessions, or at any event sponsored by the school must be reported immediately to the person in charge and to the school principal's office. The faculty member supervising the injured student must complete an accident form with the necessary information concerning the circumstances related to the accident.

Activity Period

This is a study period unless designated by the teacher. Students are to report to activity period with necessary study materials and supplies.

After-School Restrictions

Students may be in the school building after the buses leave only for work detail, detention, or adult supervised activities. When those activities end, the students must leave the building immediately. Students who are waiting for transportation must do so outside the main gym or the main entrance of the school building. Students who do not comply with these restrictions will be subject to disciplinary action.

Assemblies

All school assembly programs will be offered at various times throughout the year. Assemblies are a privilege. Everyone attending is expected to display proper audience etiquette for the type of program being presented.

Bicycles, Roller Blades, Skateboards, and Motor Vehicles

Bicycles must be parked in the racks provided and remain in the rack until that student goes home. The loan of a bicycle by one student to another cannot be allowed. Students are not to play around the bicycle rack nor around the automobiles in front of the building. Students will not be permitted to ride their bicycles on the school grounds after they have arrived, and the owner assumes responsibility for its security.

Skateboards and roller blades are not allowed at school.

Elementary students are not permitted to drive motor-driven vehicles to school.


Building Hours

The doors of the school building will open at 8:00 a.m. and will close at 3:30 p.m. Students will not be allowed in the building before 8:00 a.m. unless they are eating breakfast or have the permission of a staff member. Students in the building after 3:30 p.m. must have the permission of a staff member.

Students should time their arrival at school so as not to arrive before 8:00 a.m. A warning bell will ring at 8:10 a.m. and the class bell rings at 8:15 a.m. After 8:15 a.m. students will be counted tardy.

Bulletin Board

Any material put on the bulletin boards must be approved by the building principal before it can be posted. Have all material dated and signed by the building principal. Remove all tape etc. when the material usage has expired.

Cafeteria Code of Conduct

The breakfast and lunch periods are important parts of the student's day. While these cafeteria programs provide good nutrition, which helps to build good eating habits for the future, the atmosphere while eating should also be building good habits and manners.

To help the students develop good habits and manners, the following Code of Conduct shall be observed and enforced:

1. The lunchroom monitors are in charge. It will be up to the monitor as to the action taken to enforce this Code of Conduct.
2. Students are to enter the cafeteria in a calm and orderly manner and conduct themselves appropriately while there.


3. After the students are seated, they are to remain in that same seat until they are ready to empty their tray, dispose of their trash, and leave the cafeteria. The only exception to this is to purchase additional food. No food is to be taken from the cafeteria.
4. Students are not allowed to eat off another student's tray or to eat another student's lunch that has been brought from home.

5. Students will be given ample amount of time to eat. They are to go outside (weather permitting) as soon as they are dismissed. Students are expected to be prepared to go outside by bringing a coat if necessary.



6. All students will be expected to go outside except those still working or those who have a written excuse for medical reasons.
7. Throwing food will not be permitted

Change of Address

It is the parents' responsibility to inform the principal's office when there is a change of address or telephone number. Parental and guardianship status must be reported when a change takes place.

Child Abuse and Neglect

State Law requires all school personnel, as mandated reporters, must contact the Department of Children and Family Services when they have reasonable cause to believe that a child who is seventeen years of age or younger and known to them in their professional capacity has been harmed or is in danger of being harmed - physically, sexually or through neglect - and that a caregiver either committed the harm or should have taken steps to protect the child from harm. The call must be made immediately and no one in the workplace is permitted to restrain from the call. It is insufficient to make the report only to a superior or school nurse - the mandated reporter must be certain that the call has been made. Child abuse and neglect reports are made by calling the DCFS Hotline at 1-800-252-2873 or 1-800-25ABUSE.

The Board of Education and administration fully support the state requirements.

Food, Soda, Gum, Etc.

Consuption of gum, candy, suckers, food and soda in the classroom, hallways, playground, and gymnasium is not allowed. On special occasions, however, students may have food and/or soda in their classrooms if monitored by the classroom teacher.

Library

Students may be admitted to the library for reference work or to check out a book by way of a pass issued by their teacher. Failure to maintain a studious attitude in the library may cause a student to lose this privilege. Library books should be returned by the deadline dated. Students will be charged for overdue books or the cost of a book which is lost.


Lockers and Locks

A $ 2.00 deposit will be charged for the use of a combination padlock to be placed on the P.E. lockers.

Each 7th. and 8th. grade student is assigned a locker for the school year. The locker remains the property of the school district and is subject to search at any time by school personnel. Students should have no expectation of right to privacy in regard to lockers. Likewise, anything on school grounds may be inspected to insure its appropriateness if there is reason to be concerned. No student is to change to or use another locker without first informing the office. A periodic check will be made to see that students are using their assigned lockers. Students are responsible for the cleanliness, order, and contents of their lockers. Lockers should be properly closed and locked at all times. Students are not to slam, yank, or kick a locker that fails to operate. If a student has trouble operating the locker, he or she should go to the office after advising his or her next hour teacher. Be sure the lockers are locked at all times and do not give your combination to anyone else. Keeping the locker combination secret helps to insure the locker's security. It is strongly suggested that students should not leave valuables in their lockers.

Students are to go to their lockers before the first class period and before the afternoon classes only. Seventh and Eighth graders may go to their lockers before and after P.E. classes and before and after band or chorus class. This must be done in a quiet and orderly manner. If not students will lose this privilege.

Coats, jackets, and book-bags must be kept in lockers.

No Stickers are allowed on the inside or outside of the lockers

Lost and Found

Student's possessions which are found about the building grounds, on buses, and other places, are to be turned into the main office. Please be prompt in claiming lost articles. They will be held for two weeks and will then be disposed of if not claimed within that time.

It is most helpful if possessions/clothing are clearly labeled with the student's name. It is also suggested that parents look through the Lost and Found as soon as possible.


Lunch Tickets

Lunch tickets must be purchased during activity period of the first day of each week in the classroom.

Medication

The school nurse is not available to administer medication to students on a daily basis; a medication policy is in effect. Only long-term medication and treatments that a student must take to remain in school will be administered. Short-term over-the-counter and/or prescription medications will not be given at school. Included in short term drugs are antibiotics, decongestants, ointments, cough drops, cough syrup, Chap Stick, etc.

If your child requires medication for a short-term illness, ask your doctor to schedule dosage times around school hours. You might also want to consider administering the medication yourself to your child during his lunch period or recess time.

If your child requires medication and/or treatment on a daily basis for a chronic condition (long-term medication or treatment), arrangements will need to be made with the school in advance. If you have any questions please call.

Passes

No student may be outside of any classroom during school hours unless he/she has a written pass from a teacher or the office.

Personal Property

Students shall not bring items such as cameras, radios, tape players, computer games, skate boards, etc., to school. The school is not responsible for any personal property brought to school. The only exception to this rule is when a teacher requests a student to bring an item.

Problem Solving Procedure

The procedure for student/parent to register a concern and/or discuss issues are as follows:

1. Teacher
2. Principal
3. Superintendent
4. Board of Education

Any matter that involves a teacher should begin with the teacher. If it is a matter that involves the principal it should begin with the principal, etc. Starting at a higher level in the chain of command will result in the matter being sent back to the area where the discussion needs to begin. If satisfaction is not achieved at that level, then the matter should be taken to the next step in the chain of command.


Public Display of Affection

Students demonstrating any form of public displays of affection will not be tolerated.



Recesses

Students who stay in during recess may do so for a maximum of two (2) days with a note from their parents. If they are required to stay in three (3) or more days, they must have a current doctor's excuse stating the period of time.

School Volunteer Program (SEE INSERT)

Meissner Elementary believes that volunteers can enhance a child's educational experience. We encourage parents and interested parties to contact the school at
585-4464 for more information on rewarding volunteer opportunities.

Telephone

If it is necessary for a parent to call a teacher, please call the school office, leaving your name and telephone number so the teacher can return the call during preparation time. Only emergency calls will take a teacher from the classroom during the school day.

Students may use the office phone if they are ill, if team practice schedules change, or in case of emergency. The phone will not be available if assignments are forgotten, to arrange to have a friend over, or other personal reasons. We hope this policy will encourage our students to be responsible and plan ahead.

Visitors

All visitors to Meissner must report to the office, sign in, and receive a pass to their destination. Parents who wish to deliver lunches or other items to their children should leave them at the office, and the office workers will deliver the items to their proper destination. No parent/teacher meetings will be allowed while the teacher has students in his/her class. Meetings may be set up during the school day if prearranged.


ORGANIZATIONS

Organization Officers

Each organization shall elect a:

a.President c.Secretary
b.Vice President d.Treasurer

Accurate minutes and bookkeeping records will be kept.

Organizations Eligibility

Eligibility for athletics is governed by the I.E.S.A. and requires participants to be passing in all subjects. Some school organizations have eligibility requirements and are on a cumulative basis. They are as follows:

Computer Club "C" Scholastic Bowl "C"
History Club "C" Student Council "C"

Student Council

The Student Council includes those student representatives elected each year from the sixth, seventh, and eighth grades and the Executive Council which is elected by the Student Council members and consists of a President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. A constitution governs meetings and programs of the Student Council. The objectives of this organization are:

1.To develop trust, cooperation, respect, responsibility, and honesty among students.
2.To promote and support student participation in all activities.
3.To promote student government.
4.To maintain a good relationship between students and faculty.
5.To develop and maintain good school spirit and loyalty.
6.To develop good social and community citizenship
7.To officially represent the student body when requested.


SPORTS/EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Athletic Fees

1st Extra curricular Activity of the school year is $5.00
2nd Extra curricular Activity of the school year is $2.50
3rd Extra curricular Activity of the school year is $2.50

Athletic Participation

Meissner athletic teams, both boys and girls, are part of the Illinois Elementary Schools Association (I.E.S.A.) and, as such, are bound by that organization's rules as well as district requirements. The more important rules are listed below:

1.A birth certificate or hospital record must be on file in the principal's office
2.A licensed physician's certificate of physical fitness to participate must be on file in the principal's office. Students will not be excused from school to go for physicals.
3.Academic eligibility starts the second week of each quarter and continues, week by week, until the end of the quarter.
4.Academic eligibility starts with the first day of practice for each particular sport, event or competing group and ends with the last competitive event. Eligibility for cheerleaders will follow the same dates as the sport they cheer for.
5.Students who are serving an out-of-school or in-house suspension will not be eligible to participate in athletic or extracurricular practices, games, meetings, etc. on that day or days of suspension.
6.Students who are academically ineligible for any three weeks during the season, will be dropped from the athletic team or cheerleading squad.
7. Students participating in clubs or organizations who are academically ineligible for any three weeks per semester will be dropped from the activity.
. 8. Students who are ineligible will attend, at the coach's discretion, a 30 minute study hall after school before going to practice. These students may practice but will not be allowed to participate in games for the week he/she is ineligible.
9.Eligibility goes from Monday through Saturday.


Eligibility to Attend After-School Activities

1.Students must attend school all day immediately preceding the activity unless otherwise excused by a doctor's appointment or family emergency. A family emergency would have to be significant and at the discretion of the principal.
2.Attendance of after-school activities may be at the discretion of the building principal.

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