Dear Student: The teachers and staff members would like to welcome you to Middle School! Whether a brand new student to our building or an experienced seventh or eighth grader, you will find many exciting and rewarding opportunities in District 47. During your middle school years you will learn more about yourself, your likes and dislikes, your special skills, and a panorama of career opportunities. These experiences will assist you in making important decisions for your future. Whether your interests lie in the academic area (Language Arts, Social Studies, Mathematics, or Science), Encore area (Spanish, Art, Music, Technology, Life Skills or Health) or in physical education, you will find all these opportunities during your middle school years. The faculty and staff are ready to assist you as you take advantage of these opportunities. Every staff member is here to help if you have a question, a problem, or a concern. One of the keys to success will be to ask for help whenever you need it. Do not be afraid to ask a staff member or come to the office for assistance anytime! This handbook contains procedures and expectations for our school communities. We encourage parents and students to read and discuss its contents. If at any time you have a question, please ask or call the middle school. An open line of communication with our families is a top priority for a successful middle school experience. Our entire staff is here to support you in any way that we can. Be sure to check our District 47 website for up to date information and teacher email addresses - www.d47schools.org. Together, we can make great things happen. Regards,  

DISTRICT 47 MISSION STATEMENT
“Educational excellence for all students is our passion and commitment.”
  In District 47 we believe . . .

• Quality education requires community participation and shared responsibility

• Quality education demands a commitment to the physical, emotional,
   social,and academic needs of learners

• High expectations yield high achievement

• Everyone has the right to learn in a safe and caring environment

• Every individual has value and must be treated with respect

• Diversity strengthens our schools

• Collaboration strengthens commitment and produces quality results

• Our actions reflect our beliefs

SCHOOL INFORMATION

Add school hours please


School Closings

Your family will be contacted by our Honeywell Instant Alert system in the event of school closings or other emergency situations.  You may also tune in to STAR 105.5 FM on your radio, or go to www.d47schools.org on the internet to check for school closings using the emergency closing or school winter status tabs. 

DISCLAIMER This handbook is provided to the students and their families to acquaint them with the rules, regulations, and procedures and other relevant information necessary for the orderly functioning of the school. It has been structured to help promote student progress and to model appropriate school government. In addition, this handbook provides for the psychological and physical safety of the students through appropriate rules and regulations. When breeches of school disciplinary rules and regulation occur, it is the responsibility of involved teachers and administrators to work with the student, parents, and other support personnel to help the student correct the behavior. All disciplinary actions shall be directed toward protecting the welfare of school community, as well as helping the student develop self discipline. When determining the response for a specific discipline issue, school personnel will consider the nature of the act, the student’s previous history, the age and maturation of the student, mitigating circumstances and the effect of the student’s actions on the welfare of the school community. Disciplinary responses may include but are not limited to the actions described in this handbook. The provisions of the handbook are not to be considered as irrevocable contractual commitments between the school and the students. Rather, the provisions reflect the current status of the rules, practices and procedures as currently practiced and are subject to change. This handbook is not intended to be all-inclusive or to prohibit the school district from taking additional action to insure student learning and safety. If you have any questions, please contact a school administrator for specific clarification.

NON-DISCRIMINATION NOTICE
District 47 schools do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or handicap, in admission or access to or treatment of employment opportunities in its programs and activities.

1 SCHOOL HOURS               
1. School begins at 7:40 am. When arriving at school, you should report directly to the supervised waiting area. To enter the building before classes begin, you must have a pass. During inclement weather, all students should report to the designated area in the building.

2. After arriving on school grounds, you are not to leave unless permission is granted from the student office or health office. If it is necessary for you to leave school, you must have written permission from your parent. You must bring the note to the student office during homeroom period. Before you leave, you must check out at the student office.

3. School is dismissed at 2:14 pm. No student should be in the building 5 minutes after dismissal unless supervised by a teacher or if the student is participating in a supervised activity.

ATTENDANCE    
Students may be excused from school in cases of illness and emergency. All work missed must be made up as soon as possible after you return to school. Excessive absence often results in poor schoolwork. Steps to follow when you will be absent from school:

1. Your parent should call the 24 hour Attendance Line (see front page), by 8:00 am, giving your name, your homeroom/grade number, their relationship to you, and the reason for your absence. Homework should also be requested at this time. (See #2 for further explanation). Class discussions and activities you miss cannot be made up. If you are absent, however, all written and reading assignments must be made up on or before the deadline established by your teacher.

2. Reported absences shall be recorded as excused only for the following valid causes: personal illness, bereavement, quarantine, family emergencies, religious observance, practice and belief and circumstances which cause reasonable concern to the parent for the safety or health of the student. All other reported absences will be recorded as unexcused absences.

3. Homework requests will be taken only after the second (2nd) consecutive day absent from school. Homework requests will be honored if called in before 8:00 am. Homework may be picked up in the office from 3:00-4:00 P.M. Homework requests cannot go home with other students other than a family member.

4. If your absence is due to travel, your parent’s work responsibilities, or some other reason, your parent should notify the Health Office prior to your intended absence.

5. You must be in attendance for at least ½ day (by 11:00 am) to participate in after-school activities. This includes athletics, dances, concerts, etc.

6. We realize that students may be absent during the school year, however, if a student’s absence exceeds 10% of the accrued days of attendance, district/board policy will be followed.

Doctor/Dental Appointments
During the School Day If you will be late to school due to an appointment, your parent must call the 24 Hour Attendance Line (see front page), before 8:00 am to report your absence. A note from the doctor or dentist’s office is required for admittance to class. When you arrive to school, you must report to the student office with the doctor/dental note in order to be issued an excused admittance slip to class. When you must leave school early for an appointment you must bring a note to the student office upon arrival to school so the information can be noted on our daily attendance sheet. The note should include the date, time of dismissal, the reason for the early dismissal, and your parent’s signature. A note from the doctor or dentist’s office is required for re-admittance to school. When you return to school, either the same day or the next school day, you must report to the student office with the doctor/dental note in order for your absence to be excused.

Truancy
Any student who is considered truant will not be allowed to make up any missed work. In addition, the time missed must be made up after school and/or in a Saturday School. The truancy will be reported to the County Superintendent’s Office 2 Release of Students Students will be discharged from school only to the parent(s) or guardian or to a person designated, in writing, by the parent(s) or guardian. It is the responsibility of the parent(s) to ensure that a list of such persons is provided to their child’s school and that this list is up-to-date. In situations of divorce or separation, the custodial parent designates, in writing, to whom a student may be released. In situations of joint custody, both parents must agree and provide in writing, (signed by both parents) a single list of people to whom a student may be released. Siblings may only pick up students with prior permission/notification from parents. School staff shall refuse to release a child to any person, whether related or unrelated to the child, who has not been authorized by the parents or guardian to receive the child. Persons not known to school staff will be required to present a driver’s license or other photo identification to a school staff member before a student is released to them. School staff will maintain a record of persons to whom the student is released, the date, and the time that the student is released. Late to School/Class - Tardy Policy We realize that certain unforeseen circumstances may cause you to be late to school and have therefore designed a policy which allows for up to three (3) tardies per semester without consequence. In addition, our policy allows for students to be late to class three (3) times per semester without consequence.** Beginning with the fourth tardy offense, you are required to make up the time through after school detentions and/or Saturday School. The process we use to encourage you to get to school and individual classes on time is as follows: 1st and 2nd tardy verbal warning 3rd tardy written warning 4th and 5th tardy 30 minute detention 6th tardy 1 hour detention 7th tardy 2 hour Saturday School Each additional tardy 4 hour Saturday School Excessive tardiness may require the involvement of the Regional Superintendent of Schools Office and the Illinois State’s Attorney. **Tardy policy for Encore and PE classes: 1st tardy – verbal warning, 2nd tardy – written warning, 3rd and 4th tardy – 30 minute detention, 5th tardy – 1 hour detention, 6th tardy – 2 hour Saturday school, each additional tardy – 4 hour Saturday School

SCHOOL PROPERTY
Care of School Property You are responsible for the proper care of all books and supplies issued to you, and for the furniture supplied by the school. If you disfigure property, break or do other damage to school property or equipment, you will be required to pay for the damage done or replace the item. District #47 Board Policy #710.10 states, “Students and their parents are responsible for replacing or paying for lost or damaged equipment, school-owned books, buildings or any other school property. In addition, students who have willfully damaged school property shall be subject to the school’s disciplinary system and may be charged through the criminal justice system.” Fees Book rental, towel, and lock fees are paid for via our mail-in fee forms that are mailed out in April. Fees vary with each grade level. In addition, special fees may be assessed for the tech lab, FACS, off campus PE programs and other projects during the school year. Special fees are also levied for lost or damaged books, overdue books and other school property. The outstanding fees must be paid before records can be processed to the next grade level.

Lost or Damaged Textbooks/Learning Media Books
If you damage textbooks or Learning Media Center books, you will be assessed a book damage fee by the Main Office and you or your parents will be required to pay this fee. If you lose a textbook or Learning Media Center book, you will be required to pay for the book to be replaced. If a lost textbook or Learning Media Center book has been paid for and is later found in good condition, the District 47 Business Office will issue a refund, in the form of a check. (Refer to District #47 Board Policy #710.10 stated previously.) Crystal Lake Community Consolidated School District #47 – Policy 710.10, Students: Rights & Responsibilities – Care of School Property: Vandalism, Adopted 4/92. Lockers The Board of Education has provided lockers for the purpose of providing students with a place to store outerwear, books, and other articles necessary for their use during the day. You are to use only the locker that has been assigned to you and you MUST keep it locked at all times. All personal items and books, when not in use, are to be kept in your locker. Do not tamper with another locker or give your combination to anyone. The District retains ownership and control over the lockers and/or desks at all times and reserves the right to inspect and search lockers and/or desks and their contents without notice. Loss of articles is not the responsibility of the school district (Policy # 710.18). Random locker searches may occur throughout the school year.

SERVICES FOR STUDENTS Cafeteria A hot lunch program is offered to students for a minimal cost of $1.75. A daily or “10 Lunch” ticket may be purchased in the cafeteria for $17.50. To purchase a lunch ticket, please make checks payable to “District 47.” If you prefer to bring a sack lunch, you may purchase milk, juice and snacks. Students are expected to maintain high standards of cleanliness and courtesy while eating lunch in the cafeteria and must remain seated. If there is a problem with cleanup or behavior, students will be assigned a seat. If you will eat at home, you must bring a note, for that day, to the student office upon your arrival to school. If you will eat at home all year, your parent must sign a special permission form.

Lunch Charges
 Occasionally you may forget to bring your lunch, or you may have forgotten that your lunch ticket has run out. We have therefore created a Lunch Charge Program to assist you in this emergency situation. You may obtain a lunch charge by stopping at the student office before going to the cafeteria. You will be issued a lunch charge slip to take to the cafeteria to purchase your lunch. A charged lunch will consist of a full lunch with a sandwich as main entree and will cost $1.75, which needs to be repaid in the Student Office the next day. Charges will be limited to a maximum of five (5) per student per school year. If the payment is not returned the next school day, a detention warning will be issued.

Health Office
If you become ill while at school, you should report to the Health Office with a hall pass from your teacher. If the Health Clerk determines it is necessary, your parent will be notified. No student is allowed to call a parent from the pay phone to go home ill. The student must be released through the health office. You may not leave the building, due to illness, without authorization from the office.

Medications
A student may not bring medication to school. It is believed that any medication (including aspirin, Tylenol, cough drops, etc.) should be administered in the home when at all possible. However, under certain conditions, it is in the best educational and health interests of the child to take medications during school time. In such cases, a doctor must direct medication be given during school hours. That request MUST be on file in the Health Office with both the doctor and parent’s signature directing the administration of the medication. To insure compliance with the rules for administering medication at school, all medications, prescriptions and over the counter items (cough drops, cold medications, throat sprays, aspirin and non-aspirin medications) MUST be turned into the Health Office by the parent in the original container. That includes all medication information along with the completed Request to Administer Medication form. The student’s name must be attached to the container Students are to report to the Health Office to take any and all medications. You will NOT be called out of class on an individual basis for missed medications. A form for the self-administration of medication is available for asthmatic students with physicians orders and parent permission. The school district reserves the right not to administer any medication where incomplete information is provided, including faxed doctor’s orders. No medication can be given until these conditions are met. Please, under no circumstances, send medication with your child as there is the possibility it could unknowingly be taken by another child. It is the parent’s responsibility for informing the school of any change in the child’s health or change in medication.

Accidents
Many accidents can be prevented by following the proper rules for the activities in progress. However, if you have an accident at school, you must report it to the supervising teacher immediately. Additionally, you must report it to the office/health office within 24 hours.

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SAFETY
Bicycles, Roller Blades, Scooters & Skateboards You may ride your bike to school and must park it in the racks provided. All bicycles should be locked when not in use. For safety reasons, do not ride your bicycle in or through the parking lot or bus loading area. You are responsible for your bicycle. Roller blades, scooters and skateboards are not allowed on any District 47 school property. Roller blades, scooters and skateboards, which are brought on school property, will be confiscated and kept in the office until your parent or other responsible adult makes arrangements to pick them up.

Fire Drills
A fire evacuation plan is posted in each room of the building. Your teacher in each classroom will explain the procedures to you as they apply to that particular classroom. Periodic drills will be held during the school year. Running and talking are NOT permitted. No one is to return to the building until the Principal or authorized representative gives permission.

Tornado/Disaster Drills and Weather Conditions
During the first few weeks of school, we will have a tornado drill. During a tornado drill, you will meet your homeroom teacher in a secure location, either on the lower or main floor of the building. Your homeroom teacher will inform you of your secure location before this first drill. Periodic drills will be held during the school year. Running and talking are NOT permitted.

In the event of a TORNADO WATCH (conditions are such that a tornado may develop), or a severe THUNDER STORM WARNING, all after school activities are canceled and you are to go directly home. In the event of a TORNADO WARNING (tornadoes have been sighted nearby), you must remain at school until your parent picks you up, or the warning is canceled. You cannot be released to anyone but a parent or legal guardian.

Bus Transportation
Whether you ride a bus every day to and from school or occasionally for a field trip or athletic event, it is important for you to be aware of several facts: One is that the bus driver is in complete charge of the bus. The driver is concerned for and responsible for the safety of all the riders. The driver has the same authority on the bus that your teachers have in the classroom. Inappropriate behavior on the bus will be reviewed and consequences could include the loss of bus privileges. The following process is followed with bus conduct reports.

1st report Warning and/or seat assignment. This can be bypassed if the offense is of a more serious nature. 2nd report 1 week loss of riding privileges. 3rd report 2 week loss of riding privileges. 4th report Request to the Board of Education for permanent removal from bus. There are many things about riding a bus that can be dangerous. For your own safety, it is very important that you be alert, and learn and follow these rules closely:

1. You should be ready and waiting when the bus arrives.
2. Stay well away from the curb and wait for the bus to make a complete stop before
    you try to board.
3. If you wish to lower the window, lower them only to the line. Keep your
    head, arms, and all other objects inside the bus.
4. Stay seated until the bus comes to a complete stop.
5. Move away from the bus after you exit.
6. Food and drinks may not be consumed on the bus.
7. Balloons cannot be transported to/from school on the school bus.
8. Other personal items such as sports equipment (roller blades, golf clubs, baseball
    bats, hockey sticks etc.) may not be transported to and from school on the
    school bus due to safety reasons.

 Infractions of these rules will result in the driver filing a “Bus Conduct Report” with the school office. The principal or assistant principal will meet with the student(s) involved and notify parents. Reoccurring problems can result in the suspension of transportation privileges.

SPECIAL NOTE: Students who are not eligible for regular bus transportation are not permitted to ride with another student at any time. Space limitations, insurance and safety do not allow students to ride any bus other than the one they are assigned to ride. School District 47 is not responsible for students who do not take their assigned transportation.

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GENERAL INFORMATION Reporting to Parents/Student Grading Reports We believe in keeping your parents as well informed as possible regarding both the positive and negative aspects of your progress in Middle School. Report cards are issued to the students four times a year, every nine weeks. In addition, half way through each quarter, midterm grades will be issued as determined by the school teams. Also, other communications will be sent home as needed. Honor Roll District 47 Middle Schools have two honor rolls which are compiled and posted at the end of each quarter. If you achieve a grade point average between 3.0 and 3.49, you will be placed on the Regular Honor Roll. If you achieve a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, you will be placed on the High Honor Roll. All honor roll students are expected to exhibit satisfactory citizenship. Special recognition will be given to students who achieve honor roll status.

GRADING SCALE GRADE EQUIVELENTS -
A+ 100-99
A+ 4.33 A 98-92
A 4.0 A- 91-90
A- 3.67 B+ 89-88
B+ 3.33 B 87-82
B 3.0 B- 81-80
B- 2.67 C+ 79-78
C+ 2.33 C 77-72
C 2.0 C- 71-70
C- 1.67 D+ 69-68
D+ 1.33 D 67-62
D 1.0 D- 61-60
D- .67 F 59 and below                 

Dress
All students are expected to dress and groom themselves neatly in clothes that are suitable for school activities. Students who wear clothing which detracts from the learning environment, is offensive, advertises any illegal activities for students or which is inappropriately revealing will be asked to change into something appropriate for school. Shirts are to be worn at all times in the school building and on school property including during Physical Education activities. Coats are to be worn to and from school, or outside during lunch and are NOT to be worn in the school building. All pants, jeans, skirts and shorts should be of the appropriate size and length and able to stay up without a belt. Examples of inappropriate clothing is as follows: · Tops having bare midriff, low necklines, off shoulder design, strapless or spaghetti straps · Any clothing that reveals underwear · Pajamas, nightgowns or underwear worn as outer clothing · Shorts or skirts of inappropriate length (rule of thumb: no shorter than mid thigh) · Clothing or accessories that advertise alcoholic beverages or cigarettes, drugs, violence, satanic or gang symbols, inappropriate language, profanity or sexual connotations or is insulting to others. · Pocket chains, studded coats or clothing, studded bracelets, studded earrings or studded necklaces. · Bandanas, hats, scarves, headbands, sweatbands, sunglasses and gloves. · Jackets, coats, hats and backpacks should not be worn or brought to class · Hooded sweatshirts must be worn appropriately with hood down at all times. · Any gang related symbols, clothing or paraphernalia. · Inappropriately tight clothing.

This list is not all-inclusive. Administrative discretion will be used to determine appropriateness of student appearance based on District 47 Board Policy. Students wearing inappropriate items may be required to wear a PE uniform or parents will be called to bring a change of clothing that is acceptable. As used in this handbook, the words “clothes” and “clothing” include accessories such as rings, earrings, necklaces, purses and backpacks."

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Backpacks Backpacks may be used by students to transfer their books and materials to and from school. Once at school, backpacks need to be stored in your assigned locker. Students are directed not to use backpacks during the school day.

Telephones
The office telephones are for school business and may be used by students only in cases of emergency and only with permission from a staff member. Pay phones are available for student use. During the school day, pay phones may only be used with permission and/or supervision of a staff member. It is beneficial to have money or a pre-paid phone card in you locker for minor emergencies that require the use of the telephone.

Forgotten Items and Messages
Students will be advised of dropped off items and given any phone messages during their lunch hour and in between the 8th and 9th class periods only. A message board located in the cafeteria area will alert students to items and messages that can be retrieved in the student office. It is the student’s responsibility to check the message board and listen to announcements for all items and messages. If you call home for something and need it before lunch, it is your responsibility to stop at the Student Office between classes to pick up items. Messages should be called in to the office by 1:00 p.m. Classes will not be interrupted except for emergency purposes.

Valuables/Cell Phones/Cameras
Personal cell phones must be turned off and locked in the student’s locker during the school day. Students are not allowed to carry cell phones on their person. The use of all other personal electronic devices is not permitted during school hours. Cameras are not permitted at school. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Lost and Found If you lose a personal item at school, you should check the lost and found box. Valuable items such as watches, jewelry, eyeglasses, house keys, etc. are kept in the student office. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Publicity Photos
Throughout the course of any school year our building’s public relations committee will take a variety of photographs of teachers and students in an effort to publicize school projects. It is possible that our photographer or one of the local newspaper photographers may feature your student in the Chicago Tribune, Northwest Herald, the District 47 newsletter or one of our school newsletters. If for any reason you prefer not to have your child’s photograph placed in any of these publications, you are encouraged to contact our school office at your earliest convenience. We respect your right to privacy and want to insure that your right to confidentiality is not compromised. Should you have any questions regarding publicity photos, please do not hesitate to contact our office.

Learning Media Center
The Learning Media Center is well-equipped and serves as a valuable extension of the classroom. Students are free to use the Learning Center during the day as long as they are engaged in a purposeful, educational activity. Book check out is available to students on a daily basis. Materials are selected for the Learning Media Center that deal with a variety of interests and ability levels. Parents are encouraged and expected to monitor their child’s reading selections. The Learning Media Center provides a more efficient individual project atmosphere along with many books, tapes, projectors, films, computer and records for your use. The Learning Media Director and clerk can assist you in using these materials. Students may check out materials and are expected to return them in a timely fashion. Students are responsible for keeping track of the due date for materials they have checked out. Fines of $.05 each school day will be assessed for each overdue item. Students will not be allowed to check out additional items as long as they have an overdue item or fine. If an item is lost or damaged, the student will be assessed its replacement cost.

Assistant Principals
The Assistant Principals coordinate all aspects of the student services at the middle schools. This includes student discipline, testing, pupil personnel services, scheduling, lockers, attendance, retention, promotion and other school activities. Please contact them if you have any questions in regard to the above items.

School Psychologist
The school psychologist is available to perform testing for students with possible academic deficiencies and for placement in special programs. The school psychologist will coordinate service available to students with special needs within the school. If you need to see the School Psychologist, you should request a hall pass from your teacher.

Social Worker
If you need help with personal problems, relationships with friends, or difficulties with schoolwork, you should request a hall pass from your teacher to see the Social Worker. The Social Worker will schedule a convenient time for you to meet.

Student Activities and Community Information
Our school has a designated location for students to access community information related to athletics, scouts, fine arts, and other worthwhile activities for students. In addition, the district website, www.d47schools.org, has a link to a variety of community organizations that support our students such as athletics, fine arts programs, scouts, and recreational activities.

Band
Band is offered to all pupils on a voluntary basis. Students are assigned to one of the various bands through testing and/or audition. Band class lessons are scheduled one period per week during the regular class periods. Band students receive a grade every nine weeks, which is considered equally with their other subjects for Honor Roll purposes. Concerts and contests are scheduled for the bands during the year. Full band rehearsals are scheduled daily from 7:00 am – 7:40 am with bus transportation provided for bus eligible students. A band fee of $20.00 will be assessed for participation in any one Middle School Band. If you are interested in joining the Band program, you should consult with the Band Instructor for further information.

Chorus
Chorus is offered to all pupils on a voluntary basis. No grades are issued to chorus students. The Choruses rehearse after school. Concerts and contests are scheduled for the choruses during the year. A chorus fee of $45.00 will be assessed for participation in any Middle School Chorus. If you interested in joining the Chorus program, you should consult with the grade level Chorus Instructor for further information.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION
P.E. Medical Excuses
If you cannot participate in physical education classes due to medical reasons only, your parent may excuse you from physical education class for no more than three (3) consecutive school days. Weekends and other non-school days are included in the three (3) consecutive day count. After that time, a physician’s note and directions are required. If you have such a physical education excuse note, you must turn it into the Health Office upon arrival to school. Due to new privacy laws, medical information can no longer be faxed; it needs to be brought in by a parent/guardian.

If you are excused from physical education classes, whether excused with a note from your parent or doctor, you will NOT be allowed to participate in similar events (after school athletic tryouts or activities, field trips, etc.) during the excused period.

P.E. Uniforms
The dress requirements for all 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students for physical education are the regulation gym attire chosen by District 47. You are also required to wear white socks and gym shoes (no black soles). All students will have physical education class every day.

P.E. uniforms (except for socks and shoes) for all students may have been purchased at the same time as the district fees and will be issued during P. E. class the first week of school. If they were not paid for at that time, $17.00 should be brought during the first week ($9.00 for shirt - $8.00 for shorts). Shorts, shirts and socks are to be laundered at home weekly.

In addition to the required uniform, you should bring a long-sleeved sweatshirt and sweatpants to keep in your P.E. locker to use on cool days. All pieces of P.E. clothing must be marked with the student’s name.

P.E. Lockers
You will be assigned a locker to be used for physical education classes. Periodic inspections will be made by the physical education class teachers or Administrators to see that they are kept neat and orderly. You are to use only the locker that is assigned to you and you MUST keep it locked at all times. Do not tamper with another locker or give your combination to anyone. The District retains ownership and control over the lockers at all times and reserves the right to inspect and search lockers and their contents without notice. Loss of articles is not the responsibility of the school district (Policy # 710.18). Random locker searches may occur throughout the school year.

ATHLETIC PROGRAMS

Purpose
The goal of School District #47’s middle school athletic departments is to provide athletic opportunities for all 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students. The athletic programs will provide the student athlete with quality instruction and friendly competition, stressing the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship.

General Information
In order to participate in a District #47 athletic program, a student must follow School Board Policy 730.02. This policy requires every student to have a signed Medical Exam for Participation in School Athletics form and a signed Parent Athletic Permission Form on file at the school office. These forms are valid for 365 days. Both of these forms must be on file before a student is allowed to practice or try out for a team. A $45 activity fee is required to be paid to the office the first week of each season. Checks should be made out to District 47. The building principals will handle any financial hardship cases.

Sport Spectator Rules
Students who plan to attend a home game should inform their parents before coming to school. If transportation is needed, arrangements should be made before school. All arrangements for rides must be made in advance. Courteous and attentive behavior is expected. Remember that the visiting players, cheerleaders, coaches and spectators are our guests. Your conduct reflects not only you as an individual, but your school and all the students. Do not whistle, boo or stomp on bleachers. In addition, food and drinks are not allowed in all District 47 gyms. Students are expected to remain at the after school event, and will not be re-admitted once they have left unless accompanied by a parent.

Fox Valley Junior High Conference (FVC) Athletic Handbook
Crystal Lake School District #47 is a member of the Fox Valley Junior High Conference and abides by the approved bylaws and constitution of the conference. Items not covered by the conference bylaws and constitution is covered by the Illinois Elementary School Association (I.E.S.A.) rules and regulations and then by the National Federation of State High School Associations (N.F.H.S.). Participation in a FVC requires a serious commitment in both time and effort on the part of the athlete. This commitment consists of more practice sessions and academic eligibility. The Fox Valley Junior High Conference teams include: Girls Boys Cross Country* Cross Country* Volleyball (13 members per team minimum) Basketball Cheerleading (8 members per grade level) Wrestling * Pom-pon (13 members per squad minimum) Track and Field* Basketball (13 members per team minimum) Track and Field* *These are no cut sports and include 6th grade involvement

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Tryouts
Volleyball, basketball, cheerleading, and pom-pon will hold either 2 or 3 day tryouts at the coaches’ discretion. A student must be available for tryouts to be eligible to make a conference team. Students who miss all of the tryout dates due to an excused absence will be allowed a one-day tryout upon returning to school. Note: Failure to have a completed medical exam is not considered an excused absence and will not afford a student additional tryout time.

Selection of Teams
All final team selections are the responsibility of the head coach. All tryouts are closed to the general public. If coaches are going to use a committee to help select the team members, the committee must be made up of adults only and due care must be taken by the head coach to insure that the committee members have no biases, relationships, or personal vested interest on which students are selected to the team. The head coach must be a member of this selection committee

Practice Times
Practice times will vary from school to school and from season to season. Generally, conference teams will practice everyday of the week for 1.5 – 2 hours and between the times of 2:30 P.M. and 6:00 P.M. Occasionally, there may be practices on Saturdays or on a school holiday.

Conference Events
Bus transportation is provided to all conference sporting events for members of the teams. Return bus transportation to the school is provided for all events outside of Crystal Lake. Most conference events begin at 4:00 P.M. For volleyball and basketball, A and B games are played to provide opportunities for all eligible players to participate in regular season games.

Attendance
In order for an athlete to participate in a conference event, the athlete must be in attendance for at least half of the regular school day. Also, students must participate in physical education class if they are going to practice or participate in a conference event.

Dual Participation
The Fox Valley Conference by-laws state that teams joining the IESA must follow IESA rules for dual participation purposes. Since the District #47 schools have chosen not to join IESA for this school year, students may choose to dual participate without penalty.

Steroid Information
Sports Are Great – Steroids Aren’t. Go to http://www.drugfree.org/Portal/Steroids/index.html for information. This slideshow provides valuable information for both parents and athletes. Eligibility In order to participate in athletics it is important for a student athlete to maintain an acceptable academic level. With this in mind, District #47 has established the following guidelines:

Basketball, Cheerleading, Pom-Pon, Volleyball A) In order to try out for these sports, a student athlete must have a cumulative grade point average of 1.66 on their last available report card. B) Once a student athlete becomes a member of the team, the student athlete must maintain a passing grade in all subject areas. Failure to do so will result in the student athlete not being allowed to practice or play games until the grade is improved.

Cross Country, Track and Field, Wrestling A) These are no-cut sports and all student athletes will be allowed to participate. B) Once a student athlete becomes a member of the team, the student athlete must maintain a passing grade in all subject areas. Failure to do so will result in the student athlete not being allowed to practice or play games until the grade is improved. City League (Volleyball, Basketball, Dance Club) A) These are no-cut sports and all student athletes will be allowed to participate. B) Once a student athlete becomes a member of the team, the student athlete must maintain a passing grade in all subject areas. Failure to do so will result in the student athlete not being allowed to practice or play games until the grade is improved.

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Crystal Lake School District #47 City League
 Each middle school in District #47 will provide additional opportunities for those students who are not a member of a FVC team or desire to participate in numerous activities and lack the ability to commit the amount of practice time that a FVC team requires. The City League comprises teams from Beardsley Middle School, Lundahl Middle School, and Bernotas Middle School. The teams are a blend of seventh and eighth graders. City League Teams include the following: Girls Volleyball Basketball Dance Club Boys Basketball All city league teams are for seventh and eighth graders only with the exception of sixth grade girls for Dance Club. Practices – City League teams will typically practice 2-3 days a week somewhere between 2:30 and 6:00 P.M. Games – Interschool games are played on Saturday mornings with a tournament held at the end of the three to four week season. Coaches will make every effort to equalize participation time during games. Transportation – Parents provide the transportation for Saturday morning contests. Game Participation – In order for an athlete to participate in a Saturday game, he or she must have attended at least one practice that week. Team Selection – A minimum of 12 members are needed to form a City League team. The team will be comprised of a blend of seventh and eighth graders trying to maintain a 50% ratio of each. City League coaches will determine placement on the teams.

Fall Sports Schedule Earliest Start End Conference Girls Volleyball (7th – 8th grade) 1st week of school Mid- October City League Girls Volleyball (7th – 8th grade) Conference Cross Country (6th,7th,8th grade) Winter I Sports Schedule Earliest Start End Conference Boys Basketball (7th – 8th grade) Mid- October Winter Break Conference Cheerleading (7th – 8th grade) Conference Pom Pon (7th – 8th grade) City League Boys Basketball (7th – 8th grade) City League Dance Club (7th – 8th grade) Winter II Sports Schedule Earliest Start End Conference Girls Basketball (7th – 8th grade) January Mid- March City League Girls Basketball (7th – 8th grade) Conference Wrestling (6th,7th,8th grade) City League Dance Club (6th grade) Spring Sports Schedule Earliest Start End Conference Track & Field (6th,7th,8th grade) Mid- March Mid May

DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES

Referrals
If, during the course of a school day you should receive a “student referral,” the following procedure is used. It is the student’s responsibility to take the referral home, have his/her parents/guardians sign it and return it the next school day to the person who issued it. If you fail to return the referral the next day, you will receive additional detention time.

If the student cannot stay for detention due to a family/home situation, parents must notify the school office to make arrangements for the detention to be served at another time. It is the responsibility of the student to attend the detention period. If the student is absent the day of the detention (or after school activities are cancelled for any reason), the detention is automatically assigned for the next school attendance day. Failure to show up for a detention will result in having your parents notified and the time automatically doubled. If any student purposely misses/cuts a detention two school days in a row without a just cause or reason, he/she will be issued a Saturday School or will be suspended for insubordination as per our discipline policy.

Discipline Guidelines For Students Receiving Special Education
District 47 complies with the Illinois Public act 87-1103 regarding the use of behavioral interventions for students with disabilities. Behavior interventions used are nonrestrictive and identical to those employed with the general student population. Interventions that are more restrictive must be included as part of the student’s Individual Education Program (IEP). Discipline guidelines that address specific behavioral interventions for students with disabilities are distributed annually to all parents and students. These guidelines are also available upon request through the School Principal and/or the Director of Special Education.

Student Disciplinary Procedures
The staff of School District 47, in compliance with Illinois School code, must publish the attached discipline guidelines. The guidelines listed below are meant to be uniform practice throughout our school system for major behavior problems. Each individual school will also develop building and classroom procedures for daily classroom management that fall within the framework.
Depending on the behavior the student exhibits, consequences may begin at different steps. After the first offense, the next occurrence of the same behavior will usually move the process up to the next steps. The possible discipline steps are as follows:

1. Discuss behavior with student. Parent contact.
2. After school detention/Saturday school. Parent contact.
3. One day alternative educational placement or suspension. Parent contact.
4. Two day alternative educational placement or suspension. Parent contact.
5. Three day suspension. Parent contact.
6. Five day suspension. Parent conference required.
7. Ten day suspension. Parent conference required. Referral to special service
    personnel. Outside agencies recommended to the family.
8. Expulsion recommended to Board of Education and Superintendent of Schools.
    Note: Suspension, in most cases, is release of a student from school to the care of
    the parent at home. The student will not be able to participate in or attend any
    school activities for the duration of the suspension.



DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES
Students should be knowledgeable of the following sets of unacceptable behavior and consequences. STUDENT BEHAVIOR Abuse of transportation privileges. Disorderly conduct on school buses or other school vehicles. Bullying – Using any form or type of aggressive behavior that does physical or psychological harm to someone else and/or urging other students to engage in such conduct.
Deliberate attempt to antagonize/harass other students. Deliberate behavior that interferes with the learning and/or teaching process, and/or the decorum of the school. Fighting: a dangerous, anti-social harmful act. It is not tolerated. Flagrant and/or repeated disrespect toward staff members. Gang Activity: Any gang like activity that promotes or represents a gang or gangs, such as recruitment, representing, (showing colors or symbols) or graffiti. Injury or threat of injury, verbal or written, to any school district employee, official or student. Insubordination: Disobedience to requests of administrators, teachers or other staff members in authority. Internet Misuse (as per attached agreement – Page 16 & 17).

Malicious Mischief: Behavior that causes danger, injury, or inconvenience to a person in school or property. Offense against public morality: Vulgar or obscene behavior in public that is obviously intended to offend or make a bizarre spectacle. Possession of laser pointers. Possession, use, distribution, purchase or sale of any amount of alcohol or behavior affecting drug: Includes being “under the influence of any amount” in school or at a school-sponsored activity. Possession, use or distribution of a weapon or instrument which causes injury, or which may reasonably lead school officials to forecast injury or disruption or material interference with school activities or the rights of other students, school staff or school officials. Possession of a firearm or explosive devise. Student to student sexual harassment. Tobacco and related items (i.e., matches, lighters, pipes, etc.). Theft and other criminal acts. Truancy: Intentional, repeated, habitual, and/or patterned missing of classes. Use of electronic communication devices during regular school hours. Vandalism: Defacement, Damage or destruction to school property.

POSSIBLE CONSEQUENCES
Temporary or permanent forfeiture of riding privileges. Police involvement.

Detention.  Suspension. Police Involvement.

Suspension. Expulsion. Restitution. Police Involvement.

Make up to double the time. Possible contact of County Superintendent

Items will be confiscated and returned to parents.
Detention. Suspension.

Suspension. Expulsion. Restitution. Police Involvement
Other conduct detrimental to school property or person will be handled on a case by case nature and subject to penalties including, but not limited to, suspension. The classroom teacher shall have the right to exclude a student from class if the student’s conduct is disruptive to the educational process of the other students in the class.

District 47 prohibits the use of corporal punishment by teachers and staff in the discipline of students. Teachers and staff shall be permitted to use reasonable force if the safety or security of students, teachers or staff is threatened. Conduct that violates state and/or federal laws is subject to police involvement.

AUTHORIZATION FOR ELECTRONIC NETWORK ACCESS
You can reference www.isafe.com for information concerning your child’s safe use of the Internet. All use of electronic networks shall be consistent with the District’s goal of promoting educational excellence by facilitating resource sharing, innovation and communication. These standards do not attempt to state all required or prescribed behavior by users. However, some specific examples are provided. The failure of any user to follow the terms of this Authorization for Electronic Network Access will result in the loss of privileges, disciplinary action and/or appropriate legal action.

The signatures on the back of the Student Emergency Card is legally binding and indicates that the student and parent/guardian who signed has read the terms and conditions listed below and understands their significance. Terms and Conditions

1. Acceptable Use – Access to the District’s electronic networks must be for the purpose of education or research, and be consistent with the educational objectives of the District.

2. Privileges – the use of the District’s electronic networks is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in a cancellation of those privileges.
Consequences for misuse will follow established District 47 disciplinary guidelines.

3. Unacceptable Use – you are responsible for your actions and activities involving the network. Some examples of unacceptable uses are: A. Using a network for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright or other contracts, or transmitting any material in violation of any U.S. or State law; B. Unauthorized downloading of software, regardless of whether it is copyrighted or devirused; C. Downloading copyrighted material for other than personal use; D. Using a network for private financial or commercial gain; E. Wastefully using resources, such as file space; F. Gaining unauthorized access to resources or entities; G. Invading the privacy of individuals; H. Using another user’s account or password; I. Posting material authored or created by another without his/her consent; J. Posting anonymous messages; K. Using a network for commercial or private advertising; L. Accessing, submitting, posting, publishing, or displaying any defamatory, inaccurate, abusive, obscene, profane, sexually oriented, threatening, racially offensive, harassing, or illegal material; M. Using the network while access privileges are suspended or revoked; N. Posting student pictures, full names and/or any other personal information on District web sites; O. Off campus computer usage that causes the misuse of school programs; P. Off campus conduct on the computer which causes material and substantial interference with the requirements of appropriate discipline in the operation of the school.

4. Network Etiquette – You are expected to abide by the generally accepted rules of network etiquette. These include, but are not limited to, the following: A. Be polite. Do not become abusive in your messages to others. B. Use appropriate language. Do not swear, or use vulgarities or any other inappropriate language. C. Do not reveal the personal address or telephone numbers of students or colleagues. D. Recognize that electronic mail (E-mail) is not private. People who operate the system have access to all mail. Messages relating to or in support of illegal activities may be reported to the authorities. E. Do not use a network in any way that would disrupt its use by other users. F. Consider all communications and information accessible via a network to be private property.

5. No Warranties – The District makes no warranties of any kind, whether expressed or implied, for service it is providing. The District will not be responsible for any damages you suffer. This includes loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, missed-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by its negligence or your errors or omissions. Use of any information obtained via the network is at your own risk. The District specifically denies any responsibility for accuracy or quality of information obtained through its services.

6. Indemnification – the user agrees to indemnify the School District for any losses, costs or damages, including reasonable attorney fees, incurred by the District relating to, or arising out of, any breach of these standards. 14

7. Security – Network security is a high priority. If you can identify a security problem, you must notify the Building Principal. Do not demonstrate the problem to other users. Keep your account and password confidential. Do not use another individual’s account without written permission from that individual. Attempts to log-on to the network as a system administrator will result in cancellation of user privileges. Any user identified as a security risk may be denied access to the network.

8. Vandalism – Vandalism will result in cancellation of privileges and other disciplinary action. Vandalism is defined as any malicious attempt to harm or destroy data of another user or another network. This includes, but is not limited to, the uploading or creating of computer viruses.

9. Telephone charges – the District assumes no responsibility for any unauthorized charges or fees, including telephone charges, per-minute surcharges, and/or equipment or line costs.

10. Copyrighted Web Publishing Rules – copyright law and District Policy prohibit the re-publishing of text or graphics found on the Web or on District Web sites or file servers without explicit written permission.

A. For each re-publication (on a Web site or file server) of a graphic or a text file that was produced externally, there must be a notice at the bottom of the page crediting the original producer and noting how and when permission was granted. If possible, the notice should also include the Web address of the original source.

B. Students and staff engaged in producing Web pages must provide library media specialists with e-mail or hard copy permissions before the Web pages are published. Printed evidence of the status of “public domain” documents must be provided.

C. The absence of a copyright notice may not be interpreted as permission to copy the materials. Only the copyright owner may provide the permission. The manager of the Web site displaying the material may not be considered a source of permission.

D. The “fair use” rules governing student reports in classrooms are less stringent and permit limited use of graphics and text. E. Student work may only be published if there is written permission from both the parent/guardian and student. Under no circumstances may a student’s full name and/or picture be published with his/her work.

11. Use of Electronic Mail
A. The District’s electronic mail system, and its constituent software, hardware, and data files are owned and controlled by the School District. The School District provides e-mail to aid students and staff members in fulfilling their duties and responsibilities, and as an educational tool. B. The District reserves the right to access and disclose the contents of any account on its system, without prior notice or permission from the account’s user. Unauthorized access by any student or staff member to an electronic mail account is strictly prohibited. C. Each person should use the same degree of care in drafting an electronic mail message as would be put into a written memorandum or document. Nothing should be transmitted in an e-mail message that would be inappropriate in a letter or memorandum. D. Electronic messages transmitted via the School District’s Internet gateway carry with them an identification of the user’s Internet “domain.” This domain name is a registered domain name and identifies the author as being with the School District. Great care should be taken, therefore, in the composition of such messages and how such messages might reflect on the name and reputation of this School District. Users will be held personally responsible for the content of any and all electronic mail messages transmitted to external recipients. E. Any message received from an unknown sender via the Internet should either be immediately deleted or forwarded to the system administrator. Downloading any file attached to any Internet-based message is prohibited unless the user is certain that message’s authenticity and the nature of the file so transmitted. F. Use of the School District’s electronic mail system constitutes consent to these regulations.