CHARTIERS VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL - ic-BOARD
41
CHARTIERS VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2019-2020
Transcript of CHARTIERS VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL - ic-BOARD
CHARTIERS VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL
STUDENT HANDBOOK 2019-2020
2 | Page
Table of Contents
I. Vision Statement and Goals 4
Mission Statement of Chartiers Valley School District 4 Chartiers Valley Middle School Philosophy and Goals 4
II. Teaching Teams and Staff Support 5
III. Daily Operations 7
Daily Bell Schedule 7
2 Hour Delay Bell Schedule 8 Positive Behavior Support Bell Schedule 9
IV. Academics 10
A. Program of Studies 10
B. Report cards and Grading 11 C. Online Resources for Monitoring Homework and Grades 11
D. Awards 12 E. Compliance Statement 12
V. Attendance 13
A. Attendance Policies 13
B. Tardies 15 C. Early Dismissals 15
D. Emergency School Closings 15
VI. School Support Programs 15
A. Student Assistance Program (SAP) 16 B. Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) 16
C. School Wide Intervention and Positive Behavior Support 17
D. No Place for Hate 18 VII. Important Parent/Guardian Information 18
A. Illness and Medication, Nurse’s Office Procedures 18
B. Drop Off and Pick up of Students 18
C. Change of Personal Information 19 D. Photographing and Videotaping of Students
E. Voluntary Insurance
19
19 VIII. Safety 19
A. Fire Drills, Emergency Drills, Lock Down Drills 19
B. Accidents 19
C. Searches 19 D. Weapon Policy 20
E. Tobacco Policy 20 F. Drug and Alcohol Policy 21
IX. Code of Conduct 21
A. Authority 21
B. Code of Conduct 22 C. Detention 28
D. Independent Learning Center (ILC) 28
E. Dismissal from Class 29 F. Denial of Participation in Extracurricular Activities 29
3 | Page
X. Expected Student Behavior 29
A. General 29
a. Communication Devices/Non Instructional Items 30 b. Dress Code 30
c. Assemblies 31
d. Lost and Found Items 31 e. Lost or Damaged Materials and Textbooks
f. Telephone Calls
31
B. Transition Between Classes 32
a. Hall Passes 32
b. High School Closed to Middle School Students 32 c. Restroom 32
d. Middle School Office 32 e. Backpacks 32
f. Lockers 33 C. Cafeteria 32
D. School Buses/Bus Stops 33
a. Athletic and Activity Buses 34 b. School Bus Rules 34
c. School Bus Stop 35 XI. Student Chromebook Loan Agreement
XII. Student Activities
36
36
XIII. Athletics 39
4 | Page
I. Vision Statement and Goals
The Mission of Chartiers Valley School District
A community dedicated to shared leadership, is to graduate students who achieve personal success by providing an exceptional academic foundation in a safe, nurturing environment that inspires creativity and
innovation while embracing diversity.
CV Middle School Philosophy and Goals
Chartiers Valley Middle School will provide a safe, flexible and structured environment that will provide students with avenues for self-expression. We will strive to enable our students to develop a sense of
responsibility for their academic progress and behavior by recognizing individual strengths and
differences.
Our school centers on the unique intellectual, emotional, social and physical needs and characteristics of middle school students. Emphasis is placed on developing one’s self-worth as these youth transcend
from childhood to adolescence.
Students and teachers will collaborate in the learning process through lively communication and
interaction. It is our responsibility to make a positive contribution to ourselves, school, home, and community and be devoted to the pursuit of life learning.
As a means of implementing this philosophy, we are committed to the following goals:
1. Utilizing an integrated, activity-centered curriculum to promote understanding in learning. 2. Developing self-reliance, independence and critical thinking skills to foster reasoning and sound
decision-making. 3. Providing a flexible organizational pattern to maximize time, staff, technology and facilities to achieve
goals.
4. Practicing a variety of learning strategies in a student-centered learning environment to provide success for all learners.
5. Encouraging a complete middle school program providing involvement in teaming, advisory programs, unified arts, athletics, intramurals and social events.
6. Fostering an atmosphere to encourage higher levels of student achievement, utilizing various forms of assessment.
7. Emphasizing processes of on-going program evaluation to meet the needs of tomorrow’s workforce.
8. Establish the foundation for future life experiences as they relate to interpersonal relationships, workplace skills, communication skills, conflict resolution, respect for the environment, community
membership and global citizenship.
5 | Page
II. Teaching Teams and Support Staff
2019-2020
Grade Level Teams
Sixth Grade Core Teams Seventh Grade Core Teams
6 Blue House Class 6 Purple House 7 Red House Class 7 Lime House
Mrs. Zelch Math Mr. Biancaniello Mrs. Roberts Math Mr. Lea
Mr. Krivanek English Mrs. Moreschi Ms. Bridges English Mrs. Speicher
Mrs. Switala Literature Mrs. M. White Mr. Hildabrand Literature Mrs. Hertzog
Mrs. Renaldi Social Studies Mr. Cairns Mr. Partridge Social Studies Mr. Locke
Mr. Moreschi Science Mrs. Machusko Mr. Caplan Science Mrs. Whitaker
Eighth Grade Core Teams
8 Gold House Class 8 Teal House
Mr. Ward Math Mrs. Daves
Mrs. Jensema English Ms. Bouch
Ms. Ciaramella Literature Mrs. Holleran
Mr. Browne Social Studies Mrs. Longacre
Mrs. McLean Science Mrs. Brackin
Special Education Team
Class
Mrs. Ridgeway 6th Grade Learning
Support
Mrs. Schiavon
Ms. O’Malley
7th Grade Learning
Support
Mrs. A. White
Ms. Woerner 8th Grade Learning
Support
Mrs. Taucher
Encore Team
Heath/P.E Unified Arts Music World
Language
Business Information
Technology
Mr. Blatz Mrs. Colwes Mr. Pisaneschi Mrs. Kelly Mrs. Bautista Ms. Kochin
Mr. Fleisner Mr. McAleer Mr. Macek Mrs. Kipp Mr. Chatlak Mrs. Miller
Ms. Gannon Mr. Moskala Mrs. Stabile Mrs. Shollenberger Mr. Douglass Mrs. J. White
Ms. Guarnaccio Mr. Warren Mr. Wilson Ms. Neubert
Mrs. Maher
6 | Page
ParaprofesPara EducatorssiPonals
Mrs. D’Acierno Mrs. Mayhew Ms. Mihaly Ms. Plute
Mrs. Kifer Ms. McBride Ms. Miller
Special Services
Mrs. Benis – Gifted Mrs. Pricer – School Psychologist
Mrs. Chan – ESL Mrs. Pitassi – School Nurse
Mr. Depace – School Counselor (A-K) Mr. Swift – School Counselor (L-Z)
Mrs. Mack – RtII ELA Mrs. Vaughan – Speech
Office Staff
Dr. Welter – Principal Mrs. Arndt – Secretary
Mr. Lyons – Assistant Principal Mrs. Modelo – Attendance Secretary
7 | Page
III. Daily Operations
Daily Bell Schedule
Students to Lockers 7:45 – 7:57
Homeroom 7:57 – 8:07
Pass Time 8:07 – 8:09
Period 1 8:09 – 8:49
Pass Time 8:49 – 8:51
Period 2 8:51 – 9:31
Pass Time 9:31 – 9:33
Period 3 9:33 – 10:13
Pass Time 10:13 – 10:15
Period 4 10:15 – 10:55
Pass Time 10:55 – 10:57
Period 5 (Lunch 7) 10:57 – 11:37
Pass Time 11:37 – 11:39
Period 6 (Lunch 6) 11:39 – 12:19
Pass Time 12:19 – 12:21
Period 7 (Lunch 8) 12:21 – 1:01
Pass Time 1:01 – 1:03
Period 8 1:03 – 1:43
Pass Time 1:43 – 1:45
Period 9 1:45 – 2:25
Pass Time 2:25 – 2:27
Period 10 2:27 – 3:07
Dismissal 3:07
Bus Departure 3:12
8 | Page
Chartiers Valley Middle School
2 Hour Delay Schedule
Students to Lockers 9:50 – 9:57
Homeroom 9:57 – 10:07
Pass Time 10:07 – 10:09
Period 1 10:09 – 10:36
Pass Time 10:36 – 10:38
Period 2 10:38 – 11:05
Pass Time 11:05 – 11:07
Period 3 11:07 – 11:34
Pass Time 11:34 – 11:36
Period 4 11:36 – 12:03
Pass Time 12:03 – 12:05
Period 5 (Lunch 7) 12:05 – 12:35
Pass Time 12:35 – 12:37
Period 6 (Lunch 6) 12:37 – 1:07
Pass Time 1:07 – 1:09
Period 7 (Lunch 8) 1:09 – 1:39
Pass Time 1:39 – 1:41
Period 8 1:41 – 2:08
Pass Time 2:08 – 2:10
Period 9 2:10 – 2:37
Pass Time 2:37 – 2:39
Period 10 2:39 – 3:07
Dismissal 3:07
Bus Departure 3:12
EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING – If it becomes necessary to close or delay the start of school, the
announcement will be made via an automated phone message from the Superintendent. The announcement will also be broadcast on local radio and television networks.
9 | Page
Chartiers Valley Middle School Positive Behavior Supports (PBS)
Extended Homeroom Schedule
Students to Lockers 7:50 – 7:57
Homeroom 7:57 – 8:37
Pass Time 8:37 – 8:39
Period 1 8:39 – 9:19
Pass Time 9:19 – 9:21
Period 2 9:21 – 10:01
Pass Time 10:01 – 10:03
Period 3 10:03 – 10:43
Pass Time 10:43 – 10:45
Period 4 10:45 – 11:25
Pass Time 11:25– 11:27
Period 5 (Lunch 7) 11:27 – 11:57
Pass Time 11:57 – 11:59
Period 6 (Lunch 6) 11:59 – 12:29
Pass Time 12:29 – 12:31
Period 7 (Lunch 8) 12:31 – 1:01
Pass Time 1:01 – 1:03
Period 8 1:03 – 1:43
Pass Time 1:43 – 1:45
Period 9 1:45 – 2:25
Pass Time 2:25 – 2:27
Period 10 2:27 – 3:07
Dismissal 3:07
Bus Departure 3:12
10 | Page
IV. ACADEMICS
A. PROGRAM OF STUDIES
It is the goal of the middle school program to provide experiences that match our students’ interests
and abilities. The program is diverse, progressive and includes certain curriculum as required by the
Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE). Your teachers and school counselors will help you when possible to choose the best set of experiences. If major changes in your schedule are
recommended, your parents will be asked to discuss the changes with your teachers and/or school counselors before the change is made. CVMS operates on a six day rotating basis to accommodate
the course offerings listed below.
6th Grade and 7th Grade
Required Courses Electives (2/3 days out of 6)
• English (ELA) • Band • Information Technology (3 of 6 Days All Year) • Chorus
• Math • Orchestra
• Physical Education (3 of 6 Days All Year) • Literature (ELA)
• Science • Social Studies
• Spanish (3 of 6 Days All Year) 8th Grade
Required Courses Electives (2 days out of 6) ● English (ELA) • Band ● Information Technology (3 of 6 Days All Year) • Chorus ● Math • Orchestra ● Physical Education (3 of 6 Days All Year) ● Science ● Social Studies ● Literature (ELA) ● Choose one of the following
o Exploratory French and Exploratory German (18 Weeks each) o Spanish I, French I, or German I (All Year)
Encore Courses – 3 Days out of 6 for one semester Art
Family & Consumer Science/Shop Health
Music
Technology Education
11 | Page
B. REPORT CARDS AND GRADING
● Report cards are issued at the end of each 9-week grading session and are sent home with the
student for the first three report periods. The final report card will be mailed home in June. Final grades are recorded in the student’s permanent record, which is cumulative and passed on with the
student.
● Progress reports are available to parents via the Infinite Campus website (www.cvsd.net) & click the link under parent resources). Paper copies of progress reports will be made available upon
request. If you have concerns regarding the academic status of your child, please contact the appropriate teacher, school counselor or office administrator.
● Incomplete grades must be made up before the end of the next marking period, with exceptions
made only in unusual circumstances. Incomplete grades will become an “F” if the work is not made up.
GRADING KEY
Percentage Letter Grade Other
100%-90% A – Superior Achievement I - Incomplete
89%-80% B – Above Average Achievement P - Passed
79%-70% C – Average Achievement W - Withdrew
69%-60% D – Below Average Achievement X – Excused or Exempt
59%-0% F – Failure, No Credit N/A – Not Applicable
● Grade weighting: To ensure that students’ grades reflect their mastery of course content, 70% of the grade will be made up of summative assessments and 30% of the grade will be formative
assessment.
C. ONLINE RESOURCES FOR MONITORING HOMEWORK AND GRADES Homework and parent communication are pillars in the success of a student's academic
career. Recognizing this importance, we have committed ourselves to providing parents/guardians
with notices of students who are not completing their homework assignments through either phone or email notices. Please ensure that an accurate email address is on file in the office and that you
have provided a phone number with voicemail so that you are able to receive such messages. We believe that this communication, coupled with a high regard for homework, will place our students at
a distinct academic advantage as they travel through their educational pursuits.
Online Homework & Google Classroom Check: 1. Log on: www.cvsd.net 2. Go to “Our Schools” towards the top left side of the page – Select Middle School.
3. Click on “MS Teams” – a drop-down menu of all teams will appear – click on your child’s team
name. Additionally, most teachers utilize Google Classroom for posting and collecting assignments. Your child may login to their Classroom account to show you course content and
assignments. 4. Homework will be posted directly on the team’s webpage or you will find a link to homework on
the team page. Homework webpages are a good resource, however, it is the responsibility of the student to be aware of long term projects, and computer based assignments, tests and daily
12 | Page
work. At the beginning of each year, students are provided with a homework planner to keep
track of academic responsibilities. For those students preferring to manage their assignments electronically, we encourage Google Keep as an excellent planning and management tool.
Grades
Please utilize Infinite Campus to access grades. Infinite Campus can be accessed via the Resources
tab on the CVMS webpage. Student log in is: Student ID#/Lunch Code
Student Password: first initial, last initial, student six digit birthdate. Example: John Smith born on January 18, 2001 would have a password of js011801
D. AWARDS
We honor the students who have made Honor Roll, High Honor Roll and Perfect Attendance each 9 week marking period. Awards such as Stellar Student, Student of the Quarter, Student of the Year, etc. are also presented. Individual teams may recognize students in their own way during team time.
E. COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
It is the policy of the Charters Valley School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color,
sex, religion, marital or parental status, national origin, or handicap in its educational programs, services, facilities, activities or employment policies as required by Title IX of the 1972 Educational
Amendments, Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended, Section 504 Regulations of
the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or any applicable federal statute.
For information regarding programs, services, activities and facilities that are accessible to and usable by handicapped persons or for inquiries regarding civil rights compliance, please contact Coordinator
of Administrative Services, Charters Valley School District, 50 Thom’s Run Road, Bridgeville, PA 15017, 412.429.2248 or the Director of the Office of Civil Rights, Department of Health and Welfare,
Washington, D.C. 20201.
13 | Page
V. ATTENDANCE
A. ATTENDANCE (Policy #204)
Regular school attendance is of paramount importance to school success. State law and school board policy requires daily attendance except in cases of illness or serious emergencies. In the event
that a student is absent from school, the parent/guardian should call or email the attendance office at 412-429-2220 or [email protected] before 9:00 a.m. Upon returning to school on the first day
after an absence, the student should present a properly prepared excuse, signed by the parent/guardian, to the homeroom teacher. After three days without an excuse, the absence will be
considered unexcused.
A properly prepared excuse for absences or tardiest should contain the following information:
1. Date note is written (Emails are not acceptable formats.)
2. Name and grade of student
3. Date of absence or tardiness 4. Cause of absence or tardiness
5. Phone number where parents may be reached 6. Signature of the parent/ guardian.
Any student who misses more than ten (10) school days or five (5) consecutive days in the school
year must present a physician’s excuse for each additional absence. Failure to do so will result in
legal and disciplinary consequences.
After three (3) unexcused absences, the parent will be notified by mail of the student’s violation. Upon the fourth illegal absence, the student will be scheduled for a hearing before the
local magistrate for violating state law.
An excused absence means that a student is permitted to make up all work that is missed. It is the
student’s responsibility to obtain the assignments and return them to the individual teacher at the time designated.
An excused absence is issued under the following conditions when verified by a note signed by a parent:
1. Personal illness of student
2. Family emergency 3. Medical and dental appointments
4. Situations and/or conditions approved by the principal
An unexcused absence means that a student is not permitted to make up the work that he/she has
missed. He/she is given a “0” in his/her classes for that day.
The Board of Education requires that school aged pupils enrolled in the schools of the district in which they live attend school regularly in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The
educational program offered by this district is predicated upon the presence of the pupil and requires continuity of instruction and classroom participation.
1. Upon arrival to school, all students must report to their homeroom. Students arriving after
7:57 a.m. must report to the office to receive a tardy pass that will admit him/her to
homeroom. Students will not be permitted to enter homeroom after 7:57 a.m. if they
14 | Page
do not have a tardy pass. Failure to sign in at the main office can result in disciplinary
consequences. Students who do not report to homeroom but are in the complex will be reported to the office immediately.
2. Daily attendance will be taken only by the teacher and forwarded to the office after the 7:57 a.m. bell rings or at the end of any extended homeroom period.
3. Students who arrive late to school must sign in at the main office upon entering the complex.
4. Upon returning from an absence, the student must give the homeroom teacher an excuse for his/her day(s) of absence. Failure to provide an excuse for an absence within three school days
after returning will result in the student's day(s) of absence being marked illegal or unexcused. 5. Impassable roads, disabled school bus, and medical or dental appointments that cannot be
scheduled after the normal school day are valid excuses for tardiness. Medical or dental
appointments must be verified by a written excuse from the doctor. Parental notes are required. 7. Reasons such as sleeping in, missing the bus, or transporting a parent, relative or friend,
Etc. are not valid excuses for tardiness and will be classified as unexcused.
A. Truancy Procedures (policy #204)
Truant = 3 days of unexcused absence from school.
Habitually truant = 6 days of unexcused absence from school.
Excused and/unexcused absences
● Each day that a child is absent from school an electronic attendance notification is sent to
parents.
● After 3 unexcused absences, the 3-day Truancy letter is sent, indicating that the student is
considered “truant”, detailing the time and date of the Attendance Improvement Conference
(AIC). A phone call will also be made to schedule the AIC. At the AIC, a school-based
attendance improvement program will be developed, which will include steps to support positive
attendance as well as what actions will be taken if the student reaches 6 unexcused absences.
● After the first 6 unexcused absences, the Habitually Truant Letter will be mailed to parents
indicating the actions that will be taken as a result of truancy. (e.g., we held an AIC on xyz date
where we outlined the actions to be taken if your child would reach the habitually truant status.
Attendance Improvement Conference (AIC)
School staff will coordinate with the family to arrange an Attendance Improvement Conference (AIC) to
be held at the school in order to discuss causes for the child’s truancy and create a mutually agreed upon
plan to resolve truancy concerns. Discussion at this conference will include current academic difficulties,
physical or behavioral health issues, family/environmental concerns, or any other barrier impeding the
child’s attendance at school.
School Based Attendance Improvement Program
At the conclusion of the AIC, all participants will sign a comprehensive Attendance Improvement Plan
(AIP) that is agreed upon by school representatives, the child, and parents/family. This AIP should detail
and include: access to academic and social/health support within the school setting, an outline of
parent/guardian and student responsibilities to improve attendance, and a plan for progress monitoring
that includes both positive outcomes and potential negative consequences for compliance with or
violation of the AIP.
Community Based Attendance Improvement Program
The Focus on Attendance program is a partnership between the Department of Human Services, The
Allegheny Intermediate Unit, Juvenile Probation, and local K-12 school districts. The purpose of this
15 | Page
program is to connect students and their families to community resources, assess the underlying needs of
students who are chronically tardy, work to alleviate barriers to school attendance, and promote
educational success. This is a voluntary service which comes at no cost to the family and should be
viewed as a proactive approach to avoid potential punitive actions (such as citations, magisterial court
involvement, etc.).
B. TARDINESS
Reasons such as “sleeping in” or “missing the bus” are not valid excuses for tardiness and will be
classified as unexcused. This means that the student is not permitted to make up the work in the classes that he/she has missed. One day of after school detention will be assigned by the principal
each time a student accumulates three unexcused tardiest in a semester.
Unexcused tardiness to class will be tracked by the classroom teacher. After 2 tardies, a letter will be
sent home as a warning. After the third tardy to class, an after school detention will be assigned. Tardies to class will be reset at the beginning of each nine weeks.
C. EARLY DISMISSALS
If an early dismissal from school is necessary, the student must bring a signed note from a parent or guardian giving the reason for the request and the date and time of the dismissal. The principal
must approve the excuse. Early dismissals are discouraged, except in extreme situations. Students should report to their regularly scheduled class. Students will be issued a "pink" pass and report to
the office at the designated time for the early dismissal. The parent or guardian must come to the Middle School office and show proper identification to sign out their child before they will be released. No student will be permitted to leave school grounds unless this procedure is followed. This procedure is not necessary at the 3:07 bell.
No student can be signed out by any sibling under 18 unless it is verified by the parent.
D. EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING
If it becomes necessary to close or delay the start of school, the announcement will be posted on the CVSD webpage (www.cvsd.net) and will be broadcasted on the following radio and television
stations: KDKA, WTAE, and WPXI. The District also utilizes Infinite Campus, from which an email
and/or automated call will be made to a student's parent/guardian alerting the household when there is a two-hour delay or school closing. In case of inclement weather, it is urgent to keep the
telephone lines of all our schools open. Parents and students are requested to refrain from calling the school.
VI. SCHOOL SUPPORT PROGRAMS
A. STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SAP)
The Student Assistance Program (SAP) is mandated throughout all public secondary schools in PA. It
is designed to assist school personnel to identify student issues in academic and behavioral concerns, but also including alcohol and other drugs, which pose a barrier to learning and school success.
The mission of SAP is to help students and their families, encourage healthy coping skills, and to
increase school success. Students' health, safety, and welfare are always of utmost importance.
Student Support Teams, which include teachers, counselors, and administrative staff coordinate the
16 | Page
program. These individuals are specially trained to identify problems, determine whether or not the
presenting problem lies within the responsibility of the school, and offer resources to assist students and parents. It is neither the mission of the school nor its responsibility to resolve all problems that
impact school performance. School personnel, peers, students themselves, or family members may refer students to SAP by contacting a school counselor.
Some signs and symptoms of students who may be referred to Student Support are: ● Poor attendance ● Change in friends, behavior, or attitude ● School phobia ● Chronic violation of school rules ● Health problems ● Alcohol and other drug use ● Family issues/stress/violence ● Being at risk for suicide or other mental problems including anxiety/fear, ● Withdrawal, isolation, risk-taking or self-abusive behavior, ● Being a victim of violence/abuse ● Eating, sleeping or grooming changes ● Peer relationship problems
B. MULTI-TIERED SYSTEM OF SUPPORTS (MTSS) Multi-tiered System of Support (MTSS), formerly known as RTI grew from efforts to improve
identification practices in special education. It is a process of systematically documenting the
performance of students as evidence of the need for additional services after making changes in
classroom instruction. MTSS promises to change the way schools support students with learning and
behavior problems by systematically delivering a range of interventions based on demonstrated levels
of need.
MTSS is defined as "the practice of providing high-quality instruction and interventions matched to student need, monitoring progress frequently to make decisions about changes in instruction or
goals, and applying child response data to important educational decisions" (Batsche et al., 2005). Based on a problem-solving model, the MTSS approach considers environmental factors as they
might apply to an individual student's difficulty, and provides services/intervention as soon as the
student demonstrates a need. Focused primarily on addressing academic problems, MTSS has emerged as the new way to think about both disability identification and early intervention assistance
for the "most vulnerable, academically unresponsive children" in schools and school districts.
Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is based on a problem-solving model and aims
to prevent inappropriate behavior through teaching and reinforcing appropriate behaviors (OSEP
Technical Assistance Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports, 2007). Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a process that is consistent with the core principles of
MTSS. PBIS offers a range of interventions that are systematically applied to students based on their demonstrated level of need, and addresses the role of the environment as it applies to development
and improvement of behavior problems.
Both MTSS and PBIS are grounded in differentiated instruction. Each approach delineates critical
factors and components to be in place at the universal (Tier 1), targeted group (Tier 2), and
individual (Tier 3) levels. Our goal is to describe the shared (identified in bold) characteristics of these approaches as a basis for highlighting how best to meet the needs of children experiencing academic
and social difficulties in school.
17 | Page
C. TRIPLE CROWN PROGRAM
SCHOOL-WIDE POSITIVE BEHAVIOR INTERVENTIONS SUPPORTS
(SWPBIS) School-wide Positive Behavior Interventions Supports (SWPBIS) is an integral part of the Middle
School. The Pennsylvania Department of Education’s (PDE) website explains SWPBIS as a proactive
approach to discipline that promotes appropriate student behavior and increased learning. Traditionally, models of school discipline tend to be reactive (i.e., student misbehavior results in
punitive consequences). The word “approach” is key in that SWPBIS provides direction, not a canned program, for developing a comprehensive system of behavior support tailored to individual school
needs.
PDE continues by saying that the system is based upon a three-tiered model. The first tier
(universal) serves as the foundation upon which the other two tiers are built. This tier provides a system of support to all students in a school based on preventative practices which emphasize
teaching and reinforcing expected student behaviors. Tier two (secondary) provides targeted interventions to support students classified as “at risk,” who require more intervention than is
typically provided within tier one universal support. Support offered in tier three (tertiary) require the
most intensive level of intervention for students with the most significant behavioral/emotional support needs.
This three-tiered approach does not require less effort than current, non-SWPBIS practices, but it
channels and focuses school-based efforts, making them more efficient and effective. Characteristics
of SWPBIS: ● Interventions are planned and positive rather than reactive and punitive.
● Conditions (antecedents) contributing to inappropriate behavior are carefully managed or eliminated.
● Multiple opportunities for positive, corrective feedback are created while negative critical feedback is limited or eliminated.
● Prosocial behaviors are taught directly, practiced frequently, and routinized so that they
become automatic.
Research supports that a positive, direct instructional approach is more effective than traditional punishment-based alternatives in improving student academic success and improving overall school
climate (Horner, 2000; Myers, 2001).
Part of the SWPBIS approach at CVMS includes a reward system for students who are observed to
follow the suggested behaviors in the hallway and cafeteria. As a staff member observes a student behaving in a positive manner in the hallway or cafeteria, they may give the student a SWPBIS
ticket. The student then takes the ticket to the office where they fill out a postcard to send home to
their parents to notify them of their positive behavior. Students then draw a number to place their ticket into a number grid to try and complete a row or column. Once a row or column in completely
filled in, the students who placed tickets in that row or column will receive a reward such as free slushy coupons and special lunch opportunities.
In connection with SWPBIS at the Middle School, a student can earn a Positive Office Referral.
Positive Office Referrals are similar to a SWPBIS ticket, but are an actual document that goes within
the students’ file. A student can receive one for behaving appropriately, helping out another student, or just conducting themselves in the appropriate manner in class. This is another way to encourage
students to display positive behavior. D. NO PLACE FOR HATE (NP4H8)
According to the Anti-Defamation League, "Preparing students for success requires
providing an education in which social, ethical, and academic developments are inseparable
18 | Page
goals. No Place for Hate, a program of the Anti-Defamation League, seeks to provide a
model for combating intolerance, bullying and hatred. It provides a unique opportunity to incorporate new and existing programs with one consistent message and connects a
participating school to a larger initiative taking place in the region and in other states."
ADL’s No Place for Hate initiative provides schools and communities with an organizing framework
for combating bias, bullying and hatred, leading to long-term solutions for creating and maintaining a positive climate. No Place for Hate schools receive their designation by:
▪ Building an inclusive and safe communities in which respect is the goal, and all students can
thrive. ▪ Empowering students, faculty, administration and family members to take a stand against
hate and bullying by incorporating new and existing programs under one powerful message. ▪ Engaging schools and communities in at least three anti-bias activities per year, which ADL
helps to develop. ▪ Sending a clear, unified message that all students have a place to belong.
To learn more about No Place for Hate, please visit the Anti-Defamation League website at adl.org.
VII. IMPORTANT PARENT/GUARDIAN INFORMATION
A. ILLNESS & MEDICATION, NURSE’S OFFICE PROCEDURES
Students who become ill during the school day should report to the nurse’s office. The nurse then decides what should be done. Students will not leave school because of illness without proper
authorization. Students, when ill, should not call home on their own. The nurse or main office will call parents when it is necessary. Either middle school or high school nurse will be available to
students at all times. The middle school nurse’s telephone number is (412) 429-2228.
Students are not permitted to possess medication on school grounds. All prescription drugs MUST be administered by the school nurse. When brought to school, students must take these directly to the
nurse’s office along with a note explaining dosage, times and amounts written by your physician. The school nurse will also keep on file completed forms giving students permission to take
pain relievers, antacids and cough drops. This form must be renewed for each school year. An
exception is made for students who must carry an asthma inhaler, as prescribed by their physician. Violation of the drug and alcohol policy (#227) will result in disciplinary consequences.
B. DROP-OFF / PICK-UP OF STUDENTS
When dropping off or picking up students during the course of the school day, please use the middle
school main entrance at the front of the building. During morning arrival time, students should be
dropped off at Door 3. Please make sure your car is not blocking the flow of arriving buses by pulling
your car into the drop off lane once you’ve passed under the Skybridge. At dismissal students should
be picked up at the main entrance after buses depart.
There are parking spaces for visitors in the front of the middle school which are available for parents
who are picking up their child during the course of the day. Identification will be necessary from any parent/guardian or designee before a student will be released when being
picked up prior to the end of the school day. Parents do not need to sign their child out in the
office if they are being picked up at our 3:07 PM dismissal time.
Under no circumstances will middle school students be permitted to walk home from school or from an after-school event.
C. CHANGE OF PERSONAL INFORMATION
19 | Page
Please notify the Attendance Office in the event that your address, phone number or place of
employment changes. All information on Infinite Campus should be kept up to date and accurate. This should be done as early as possible when changes occur.
It may also be necessary to notify your child’s team of any change in phone number or email address in order to keep informed of updates.
D. PHOTOGRAPHING AND VIDEOTAPING OF STUDENTS An electronic sign off is available on the middle school website to acquire parents verification if they
DO NOT want their child to be photographed or videotaped.
E. VOLUNTARY INSURANCE
Voluntary Student Accident Insurance through AG Insurance is available to Chartiers Valley School District families at a cost of $30.00 per year (school-time only coverage), or $115.00 (24-hour
coverage). Please visit www.cvsd.net > Student Services > Health Services > Student Accident Insurance (under Resources) for more information.
VIII. SAFETY
A. FIRE DRILLS / EMERGENCY DRILLS / LOCKDOWN DRILLS
The safety and security of our school is of the utmost importance. Students should always be alert for the possibility of a Fire/Emergency/Lockdown drill. You can never tell whether it may be a drill or
an actual fire/emergency. No student is excused from participating in a drill. Each room has exit
directions posted, which are to be followed in an orderly, quick-moving manner. All students should be quiet during the drill and cell phones is not permitted. Advanced notification of fire drills will be
made on a case by case basis as determined by the principal. If a lockdown procedure is necessary, the CVSD Crisis Plan will be followed.
B. ACCIDENTS Every accident in the school building, on school grounds, at practice sessions, or at any athletic event
sponsored by the school must be reported immediately to the person in charge and/or to the school nurse. If injured at school, students must receive proper authorization before leaving school
grounds.
C. SEARCHES
The administration may authorize a search of a student, a student's locker or student’s belongings and seize any illegal materials that are found. Such material may be used as evidence against the
student in disciplinary proceedings. Prior to a locker or belonging search, the student will be notified and given an opportunity to be
present. However, when the administration and faculty have a REASONABLE SUSPICION that the
materials may create a threat to the health, welfare and/or safety of students or staff, a search may be conducted without prior notice.
PERSONAL SEARCHES
A search of a student’s person shall be permitted only when a REASONABLE SUSPICION exists that the student has on his/her person items in violation of federal, state, or local laws, or
in violation of Board policy. Such a search shall consist of a pat-down and search of outer garments, knapsacks, purses, or any other personal possessions of the student and shall be
conducted by a designated school official of the same sex in the presence of another member of the school staff.
LOCKER SEARCHES
20 | Page
Student lockers are school property and remain under the control of the school at all
times. Therefore, lockers may be searched at any time. Any inappropriate items found in a student’s locker during a search will be used as evidence for disciplinary action against the
student.
VIDEO SURVEILLANCE
The safety and security of students and staff are of primary importance to the Chartiers Valley School District. The School District employs video surveillance equipment for security
purposes. This equipment is located both in and outside of school district building and may be monitored at any time.
USE OF METAL DETECTORS The Administration of the Chartiers Valley School District may direct its staff members to employ
the use of handheld or walk through magnetometers (metal detectors) or other devices to ensure the safety of students, staff, and property. Contraband items found as a result of the use of such
devices may be confiscated, and appropriate disciplinary action taken as outlined in the Chartiers Valley Code of Conduct, or by federal, state, or local statute.
CANINE SWEEPS Chartiers Valley School District reserves the right to enhance the safety and security of students
and staff by the use of canines trained in the detection of narcotics and explosives. Such searches will be conducted at the direction of district administration, and may be
unannounced. All areas that are property of the school district are subject to searches (e.g.,
hallways, parking lots, etc.)
D. WEAPONS POLICY (#218.1) The Chartiers Valley Board of School Directors has adopted a very strict weapons policy. Federal
and State laws require public schools to follow prescribed action including the possibility of expulsion and police notification for instances where students use, possess or distribute weapons
or dangerous instruments in school. A 0-tolerance policy exists for this infraction.
E. TOBACCO PRODUCTS
Chartiers Valley School District has a policy that forbids students from using and possessing cigarettes and other tobacco products on school grounds. Students in possession of tobacco
products, e-cigarettes, vape devices (JUUL) or hookah pipes will be considered in violation of the
policy.
In addition, any student found in an area (e.g. bathroom stall) where smoke is present will risk the consequence stated in the smoking policy and/or those associated with creating an unsafe or
dangerous environment. Students are reminded that only one student should be in a bathroom
stall at any given time. All students who congregate in a stall where smoke is observed will risk disciplinary consequences. A smoking cessation program, disciplinary actions, fines and/or a
magistrate hearing are the consequences associated with violating this policy.
F. DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY
Students and parents are strongly advised to carefully review the school district’s drug and alcohol policy. Violators are subject to the consequences stated in the policy (See policy #227 in
the Appendix).
21 | Page
IX. STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
A. ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
Academic integrity indicates an ability to meet and face issues and creates an atmosphere of trust, respect, and security, which is encouraged at all levels. In addition, it is essential in an academic
community that grades accurately reflect the achievement of the individual student. Faculty, students and administrators have shared responsibilities in maintaining the academic integrity essential for the
school to accomplish its objectives.
Violations of Academic Integrity:
● Obtaining help from another student during examinations. ● Knowingly giving help to another student during examinations.
● The use of notes, books, or any source of information during examinations, unless authorized. ● Obtaining, without authorization, an examination or any part thereof.
● Plagiarism.
● Providing one's work for another student to copy and submit as his/her own. ● Altering, or causing to be altered, the record of any grade in a grade book, office, or other
record.
Consequences for violating the academic integrity procedure may include the student receiving a zero (0) for the assignment and appropriate disciplinary consequences.
B. AUTHORITY There is no division of authority among members of the staff of the middle school. High School staff
members are also authorized to reprimand or correct Middle School students who misbehave at any time or any place during the school day. Teachers, according to the school code, have authority over pupils to
and from school. Campus safety personnel also represent authority figures in the educational complex.
C. DISCIPLINE
The Chartiers Valley School District uses a progressive system of discipline. Students may be assigned directly to after school detention, Internal Learning Center (ILC) or Out-of-School Suspension (OSS)
depending upon the rule violation.
The principal may deviate from this procedure in exceptional circumstances.
D. BUS MISCONDUCT (POLICY #810)
Disciplinary Action
For a first offense misconduct report, the student will receive a warning, except when the offense is
deemed serious enough to warrant severe measures by the administration and/or Board. For a second offense, a temporary suspension of transportation privileges up to three (3) days will be invoked. The
principal will inform the student of the reasons for the suspension, and the student will be given the opportunity to respond to the action.
The principal will also:
1. Contact the student’s parent/guardian, and give notice of the action.
2. Send a letter to the parent/guardian, with a copy to the Superintendent, giving a full report of
the misconduct.
22 | Page
3. Inform the school bus driver of the action taken.
4. Provide an opportunity for a conference with the parent/guardian before the suspension is
terminated.
A student who commits a third offense will be given a five (5) day suspension from bus riding privileges.
As in the case of the second offense, the principal will implement the same adjudication procedures.
If repeated offenses result, a student could receive full suspension of school transportation privileges or expulsion from school. The principal will conduct an informal hearing on the alleged violation.[10]
Any decision for an expulsion would be determined by the members of the Board.[10]
D. PRIVACY
All individuals have a right to privacy in areas where there is an expectation of privacy, including but not
limited to locker rooms and bathrooms. Students may not take or tamper with videos or photos of other students without their consent.
Any violations of this right will result in disciplinary consequences including and up to expulsion.
E. CODE OF CONDUCT (policy #218) The Chartiers Valley Board of Directors adopted a Code of Conduct that provides a description of
expectations and responsibilities for students, parents and school personnel.
The Code of Conduct defines disciplinary offenses and consequences on three levels. The disciplinary options are defined in the Code of Conduct. The building principal shall have the authority to assign
discipline to students, subject to the policies, rules and regulations of the district and to the student's due process right to notice, hearing, and appeal.
LEVEL I Minor misbehavior on the part of the student which impedes orderly classroom procedures or interferes
with the orderly operation of the school. Classroom teachers should handle many of these types of infractions by contacting the parent or guardian when the misbehavior first occurs.
EXAMPLES BUT NOT LIMITED TO
● Classroom/school disturbance or disruptive/inappropriate school behavior
● Possession of toys, radios, tape recorders, and cameras unless directly involved in a sanctioned educational activity
● Possession of a beeper or telecommunication device (i.e. mobile or cellular telephones) ● Littering
● Loitering
● Running or shouting in the halls ● Food, gum, or drink in classroom unless directly involved in a sanctioned educational activity
● Eating outside the cafeteria without proper authorization ● Inappropriate display of affection
● Unauthorized sale of non-harmful items
● Repetitious events of Excessive unexcused tardiness to school or class ● Inappropriate dress
● Inappropriate language ● Cafeteria misbehavior
● Excessive absences without medical excuse ● Class Cut
● Truancy (move to Level III)
● Leaving classroom(s) without proper authorization
23 | Page
● Violation of school driving and/or parking policies
DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS (but not limited to)
The following list of options includes, but is not limited to, responses the appropriate staff member may use in dealing with Level I misbehaviors
● Verbal or written reprimand
● Lunch detention ● Meeting and/or telephone conversation with parent(s)/guardian(s) to discuss behavior concern
● Written agreement ● Special assignment
● Modified day
● Detention assignment(s) ● Assignment to Independent Learning Center (if available)
● Temporary out of school/external suspension ● Assignment to Saturday Detention
● Denial of privileges/extra-curricular activities ● Loss of parking privileges
● Referral to Student Support Team or Instructional Support Team
LEVEL II Misbehavior in which the frequency or seriousness tends to disrupt the learning climate of the school.
These infractions, which usually result from the repetition or continuation of Level I misbehaviors, require
additional disciplinary options because execution of Level I disciplinary options has failed to correct the inappropriate behaviors. Also included in this level are misbehaviors which do not pose a direct threat to
the health and safety of others, but whose educational consequences are serious enough to require corrective action on the part of administrative personnel.
EXAMPLES BUT NOT LIMITED TO
● Continuation of Level I misconduct
● Extreme Level I misconduct ● Obscene, vulgar or indecent conduct or language
● Using forged notes or excuses ● Throwing objects/food
● Unsafe bus conduct
● Failure to report to a detention assignment ● Violation of school attendance policies (failure to submit excuses in a timely manner)
● Defiance of authority; refusing to do as ordered; insubordination ● Leaving school grounds without permission
● Violation of school district tobacco policy
DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS (but not limited to)
The following list of options defines responses the appropriate staff member may use in dealing with Level II misbehaviors
● Modified day ● Consequences defined by School Board Policy (if applicable)
● Written agreement
● Detention assignment(s) ● Lunch detention
● Denial of privileges/extra-curricular activities ● Assignment to Independent Learning Center
● Assignment to Saturday Detention
● Temporary external suspension
24 | Page
● Loss of parking privileges
● Referral to Student Support Team or Instructional Support Team
In cases of suspension, students are entitled to due process rights.
LEVEL III
Acts whose frequency or seriousness tends to disrupt the learning environment of the school; acts that pose a threat or danger to the health, safety or welfare of any individual; acts that violate any local, state
or federal laws or ordinances.
EXAMPLES BUT NOT LIMITED TO
● Repetitions, extreme or flagrant misconduct of any offense defined in Levels I and/or II ● Violation of district drug and alcohol policy
● Theft ● Terroristic Threat
● Unauthorized possession of school district property that belongs to another individual ● Arson; setting a fire on school grounds
● Possessing or using weapons, fireworks, explosives, ammunition, or instruments that can be
classified as being dangerous when used upon another person ● Fighting
● Assault/battery ● Threatening or intimidating others
● Vandalism
● Trespassing on school property or refusing to leave school property when ordered to do so ● Racial slurs or intimidation
● Sexual harassment ● Physically or verbally threatening or intimidating others for any reason, including but not limited to,
the race, sex, religion, color, national origin or disability of the victim, and including but not limited to comments, slurs or epithets based on any such classification
● Destruction of the property of others
● Setting false alarms, bomb threats ● Extortion
● Violation of federal, state, local law ● Willfully striking an employee
● Gambling; exchange of money or property for the purpose of wagering
● Taking/tampering with videos or photos of other students without their consent
DISCIPLINARY OPTIONS (but not limited to)_
The following list of options defines responses the appropriate staff member may use in dealing with
Level III misbehaviors. ● Assignment to Independent Learning Center (if available)
● Assignment to Saturday Detention ● Consequences defined by School Board Policy (if applicable)
● Temporary external suspension ● Full external suspension
● Alternative education placement
● Expulsion ● Referral to police, magistrate or outside social or treatment agency
● Denial of privileges/extracurricular activities ● Loss of parking privileges
● Restitution of property or damages
25 | Page
In cases of suspension, students are entitled to due process rights. A Level III suspension may result in a
hearing before the School Board for further disciplinary action.
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES Student responsibilities include regular school attendance, conscientious effort in classroom work, and
good conduct. Most of all, students share with the administration and faculty a responsibility to develop a
climate within the school that is conducive to wholesome living and learning. It is the responsibility of each student to respect the rights of all who are involved in the educational process.
Every student should:
● Read the appropriate building Student Handbook
● Be aware of and exhibit good conduct. ● Follow rules and regulations.
● Cooperate with school staff in disciplinary cases should they have relevant information. ● Pursue and complete the course of study prescribed by state and local authorities.
● Cooperate with the school staff in running a safe school. ● Express ideas and opinions in a respectful and accurate manner.
● Complete homework carefully and totally and make up work when absent from school.
● Exercise proper care when using public facilities and equipment. ● Be on time for all classes and other school functions.
● Dress and groom in a manner that is safe, clean and not disruptive of the educational process.
PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Parents should teach their children the importance of honesty, respect for law, respect for property, and respect for others. When parents and school work diligently toward the fulfillment of these obligations,
each individual will benefit.
Every parent should: ● Ensure their child's compliance with approved codes of behavior and discipline.
● Read the building Student Handbook and discuss school rules with their children.
● Cooperate with school personnel whenever special services are indicated for the student. ● Become involved in their child's school life.
● Participate in school/community meetings, functions and projects. ● Call to arrange a conference with the building administrator to discuss concerns or questions
regarding disciplinary action.
● Communicate with school personnel.
STAFF RESPONSIBILITIES Each member of the school staff must understand the Code of Conduct and accept responsibility for
making it work. The staff must know the information in the building Student Handbook. Efforts by staff to
counsel students should convey respect for students as persons.
Every staff member should: ● Serve as a positive role model.
● Recognize that preventive discipline is preferable to remedial discipline ● Respond to disciplinary situations within the school or on school property.
● Exercise control through appropriate planning, management and instruction.
● Recognize individual differences and levels of maturation in students. ● Obtain assistance from counselors, nurses, and administrators, where appropriate.
● Enforce the Code of Conduct consistently. ● Protect students' rights; communicate students' responsibilities.
● Communicate with parents.
26 | Page
● Submit the required anecdotal report when referring disciplinary matters to the administration. Be
prepared to provide testimony should a meeting or hearing be required.
E. COMPUTER TAMPERING Tampering, vandalism or unauthorized use of Chartiers Valley School District computers or other
electronic equipment (printers, cabling, drives, monitors, keyboards, mice, VCR'S, televisions, etc.) or
software or associated documentation is prohibited. Violations of this policy by students or adults may also constitute violations of the Pennsylvania Crimes Code or other statutes, subjecting violators to
serious criminal prosecution. This policy is intended to be at least as broad and encompassing as Section 3933 of the Crimes Code (as of January 1995).
Student violators will be subject to discipline up to and including possible expulsion.
This policy includes inappropriate use of the Internet, network, and email capabilities that exist on school district computers. All violators will be held responsible for restitution of any damage to hardware,
equipment, software, and documentation, and for any direct consequential damages.
F. MOVING VIOLATIONS
It’s important to set a safe and respectful physical environment. Students must display the 3 expectations of our Triple Crown program (Respect, Responsibility and Integrity). Below are the Hallway
Expectations for CVMS. Students are issued a violation for running, horseplay (pushing/shoving) or disruptive behavior. If your child obtains a detention we will contact you with the date and time.
Detentions are scheduled on Mondays and Wednesdays. Please remind your child of the importance of
our CVMS hallway expectations.
CODE OF CONDUCT TERMINOLOGY 1. MODIFIED DAY - A change designated in a student's daily schedule by the principal.
2. VERBAL OR WRITTEN REPRIMAND - Communication between a student and a teacher or
administrator that intends to serve notice to the student that s/he has misbehaved or is
demonstrating inappropriate behaviors.
3. SPECIAL ASSIGNMENT/PROCESS - A project or task that is required because of a concern for misbehavior. Special assignments that violate child labor laws or contractual requirements
with employees will not be issued. Some examples of special assignments/process are, but
not limited to: written work essays, behavior plan, assisting teacher with a task, peer mediation process and letter of apology.
4. DENIAL OF PRIVILEGE/EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES - Students who demonstrate certain
inappropriate behaviors may be withdrawn from a privileged or extra-curricular activity (i.e. school assembly, sports, clubs, playground recess). No student will be denied the right to eat
lunch or participate in his/her normal educational program if this option is used.
5. REFERRAL TO STUDENT SUPPORT SYSTEM OR INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT TEAM - A team of
trained school personnel who seek to assist students experiencing significant academic, social, emotional or personal problems.
6. SCHOOL BOARD POLICY - Formal statements of action enacted by the Chartiers Valley School Board governing various behavioral standards.
7. RESTITUTION - Providing financial settlement to a person(s) or the school district for theft,
damage or injuries.
27 | Page
8. DETENTION - Detention requires a student to remain in school at times other than the
regular educational day. The student must participate in a quiet study activity that is related to his/her educational program at the school. Failure to attend detention assignment may
result in additional detention, assignment to the Independent Learning Center or suspension.
9. INDEPENDENT LEARNING CENTER - A principal may place a student in the Independent
Learning Center from one (1) to ten (10) days without an informal hearing. Prior to the suspension, the student shall be informed of the reasons and be given the opportunity to
respond. The parent will also be given notice of the assignment.
10. TEMPORARY OR FULL EXTERNAL SUSPENSION AND DUE PROCESS PROCEDURES - A student who breaks school rules may receive a temporary external suspension, full external
suspension, or expulsion, depending upon the nature of the offense.
The principal may temporarily suspend a student externally for up to three (3) days without a
hearing. The principal is required to establish the facts, allow the student to respond to the charges, and notify parents if the suspension is imposed. The principal will send a written
notice to the student's parents.
A full external suspension may be issued for up to ten (10) days. However, the student must
have an informal hearing conducted by the principal or Superintendent within the first five (5) days of suspension. Prior to the hearing, the student and parents must receive written
notice stating the nature of the alleged charges and all information to which they are entitled in order to prepare properly for the hearing.
An external suspension, whether temporary or full, must be served in the custody and control of a student's parents or guardians. Students are permitted to make up exams and work
missed while on suspension. All work must be made up within five (5) school days upon return to school from a suspension.
13. EXPULSION - Expulsion is exclusion from school for more than ten (10) consecutive school days, and it may be permanent. Expulsion proceedings require a formal hearing before members
of the Chartiers Valley School Board. Appropriate notices and appropriate information to which students and parents are entitled will be furnished. Students have the right to legal counsel at a
formal hearing before the School Board.
The formal hearing shall be held in private unless the student or parent requests a public hearing. If the Board rules in a student's favor, all references to the alleged incident shall be
removed from the student's records.
14. LEGAL CONSEQUENCES - Students can face school consequences as well as legal consequences for major Code of Conduct violations or repeated minor violations. Students can
receive a citation or criminal charges depending on the rule violation. Examples of such behavior
are, but not limited to, disorderly conduct (vulgar language, insubordination, and inappropriate behavior), fighting, assault, vandalism, theft, violation of the tobacco policy, violation of the drug
and alcohol policy, harassment, truancy, leaving school property and excessively being late to school.
C. DETENTION Detention may be assigned to a student for:
● Tardies - Unexcused tardiness to class will be tracked by the classroom teacher. After 2 tardies, a letter will be sent home as a warning. After the third tardy to class, an after school detention
will be assigned. Tardies to class will be reset at the beginning of each nine weeks.
28 | Page
● Missing Homework Assignments - Homework completion with be tracked by the classroom
teacher. After three homework misses in a nine week grading period, an after school detention will be assigned. Homework misses will be reset at the beginning of each nine weeks.
● Behavior Infractions ● Moving Violations
Detention requires a student to remain in school at times other than the regular educational day. Detention at the middle school is held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:10 until
approximately 4:10. An activity bus, which departs at 4:30, will be available for student transportation home. Students who make arrangements to be picked up must ensure that their ride
is at the school no later than 4:15 or the student will be required to board the activity bus at that
time. Students assigned to detention must participate in a quiet study activity that is related to his/her educational program at the school. Failure to attend assigned detention may result in an
additional detention, assignment to the Independent Learning Center, or further discipline.
DETENTION PROCEDURES
● Students are expected to report to detention promptly and remain the entire period. ● Detention is held Monday to Wednesday from 3:15 PM to 4:15 PM. ● Students are expected to sit in their seats and are not permitted to talk. Students are expected
to do homework or read. ● Students must serve the detention assignment within one week of the infraction. ● If a student is absent on the assigned detention day, the student must stay for detention the
next detention day. ● Only one date change will be made per infraction with a parent phone call to the secretary
(412-429-2220 or 2222) prior to the date of infraction. ● Non-attendance for detention will result in additional consequences. ● The principal will assign all detention dates (excluding homework detentions, teachers may
assign). ● On the assigned detention date, students must report to the detention room immediately upon
dismissal from his/her last period class. ● Students are expected to sit in their seats and are not permitted to talk. ● Students are expected to do homework or read. ● Chromebooks are not permitted to be used during detention. ● If a student is absent on the assigned detention day, the student must stay for detention on the
next available day. ● Only one date change will be made per infraction with a parent phone call to a school
administrator (412-429-2222) prior to the assigned detention date. ● Not coming to the assigned detention will result in additional consequences.
D. INDEPENDENT LEARNING CENTER (ILC) When behavior warrants, as indicated in the CODE OF CONDUCT, students will be assigned to the
INDEPENDENT LEARNING CENTER (ILC). Only principals may assign students this level of discipline. When assigned to the ILC, students must follow the specific rules that are posted within
the room. Please read these carefully so that you fully understand your obligations when you are assigned to this area.
E. DISMISSAL FROM CLASS Uncooperative or misbehaving students may be asked to leave the classroom. Upon being dismissed
from a class for any reason, the student is to go directly to the principal’s office. The teacher involved will complete documentation of the incident explaining the reason for the dismissal. The
teacher involved will make a parent phone call to explain the incident.
29 | Page
F. DENIAL OF PARTICIPATION IN SPORTING AND EXTRACURRICULAR EVENTS (Policies #123, 218)
Students assigned to an external suspension will not be permitted to participate/attend any school extracurricular activity or commencement during the period of suspension. In addition,
students who are suspended are responsible for obtaining and returning all class assignments
during the period of suspension. Students who are absent from school may not participate in activities on the day they are absent.
Field Trips and Special Events
In order to be eligible for Middle School field trips and special events, students must be in good
academic standing and must not be in violation of school discipline policies.
● If a student receives a discipline consequence in the period between when the permission
form is distributed and the day of the event, the student may not be permitted to attend the
event.
● Student receives an OSS (Out of School Suspension) during the 9 week period of the event,
the student is ineligible to participate/attend.
● Student receives a disciplinary infraction during the week of the event, the student is
ineligible to participate/attend.
● Student cannot be failing more than one class as of one week prior to the event.
X. STUDENT BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS
A. GENERAL a. TECHNOLOGY USAGE and NON INSTRUCTIONAL ITEMS
The computing usage facilities and the Chromebooks in the Chartiers Valley School
District are provided for use by the District’s students. All users of the computing facilities and electronic devices are responsible for effective, ethical, and unlawful manner
of the devices. Disciplinary actions that may be taken include but are not limited to, loss of computer privileges, dismissal from computer-related classes, fees, discipline under
the policies of the District, and/or appropriate legal action. All students using the
computers in the school will be required to sign an access and usage form. This form must be signed by a parent/guardian. The form outlines our computer and internet
procedures (Policy 815).
The expectation of CVMS for electronic devices (ex. cell phones) is that the devices are
“away for the day.” There will be privileges afforded to students depending on the grade levels and the staff. Students will be permitted to utilize handheld devices for
educational purposes when a teacher permits. Students have permission and the privilege to utilize their cell phones during morning arrival time until the start of
homeroom. Once the school day has started, non-instructional electronic devices must be turned off and kept secured in the student’s locker, “away for the day.” Teachers
have the right to collect student cell phones during the assigned period then return them
to the students. Students may use their cell phones at dismissal time at 3:07 PM.
30 | Page
Failure to adhere to the expectations of the handheld device usage procedures
and the CVSD Board Policy 815 will result in disciplinary action.
Students have permission to utilize their cellphones during morning arrival time until the start of homeroom at 7:57 AM. Once the school day has started, non instructional
electronic devices must be turned off and kept secured in the student’s locker “away for the day.” Students may turn on their phones at dismissal time at 3:07 PM. If a student is found using his/her cellphone during the school day without adult permission, the
phone will be confiscated and placed in the office until the end of the day. The student will be permitted to retrieve his/her cellphone at dismissal. If the student’s cell phone is
confiscated a second time during the semester, the parent/guardian will be notified and
the cellphone will be kept in the office until the parent/guardian is able to come to school to pick up the student’s cell phone. Items will only be returned directly to a
parent/guardian.
Electronic devices shall include all devices that can take photographs; record audio or video data; store, transmit or receive messages, data, or images; or
provide a wireless connection to the Internet. Examples of these electronic
and personal communication devices include, but shall not be limited to, iPads, cell phones, laptops or other student-owned computers, as well as any
new technology developed with similar capabilities of data storage or transmission.
Devices that are seen or heard are subject to being confiscated and held in the building office.
1. First offense - Phone confiscation and return to student at the end of the school day.
2. Second offense - Phone will be confiscated. The parent/guardian will be required to pick up the confiscated device.
3. Third or more - Offense subject to Level II disciplinary consequences.
1. Devices such as earbuds/headphones (ex. Airpods) are not permitted without a staff
member’s approval. This policy will be enforced in all areas of the middle school campus. Therefore, electronic devices and headphones are not permitted in the hallways and
common areas.
2. The possession of laser pointers and attachments by students on school property, on buses and other vehicles provided by the district, and at school-sponsored activities is
prohibited. 3. In addition, the possession and use by students of any device that provides for a
wireless, unfiltered connection to the Internet is prohibited.
The district shall not be liable for the loss, damage or misuse of any electronic
device brought to school by a student.
b. STUDENT DRESS CODE (Policy #221) Appropriate student dress and grooming are related to the efficient and orderly operation
of a school. Good student appearance is often reflected in student performance and
tends to promote and improve interest in educational endeavors and enhance the development of positive self-esteem. In an effort to maintain a productive learning
environment the high school and middle school administration has developed more specific dress guidelines.
31 | Page
Chartiers Valley Middle and High School Dress Code
The following are prohibited:
● Articles containing messages or illustrations promoting drugs, alcohol, tobacco, weapons, sexual (including innuendo), illegal or inappropriate language or
activities or apparel that demeans or degrades another ● Chains (including wallet chains, spiked dog collars/bracelets)
● Tank tops ● Tops that are low cut or expose the midriff
● Halter tops (including spaghetti strap, one shoulder, tube tops/strapless, cut off
or mesh tops) ● Skirts or shorts that are shorter than the fists when arms are fully extended to
the sides ● Holes or rips in material above the mid-thigh/fingertips
● Pajamas
● Clothing that is worn in such a way that undergarments are exposed ● Kerchiefs, bandannas, scarves, hats or other headgear (worn or carried)
● Hoodies on head ● Overcoats
● Tight fitting clothing (including but not limited to leggings/yoga pants) unless worn with a top that is fist length when arms are fully extended at the sides
Students may be required to wear certain types of clothing while participating in physical education classes, shops, extra-curricular activities, or other situations where special
attire may be required to ensure the health or safety of the student.
Teachers and principals will make the final determination as to clothing that is inappropriate or detrimental to the educational atmosphere. Students are encouraged to
participate in "special dress-up” days, “spirit days,” etc. promoting a more positive age-appropriate climate.
c. ASSEMBLIES
A variety of programs scheduled by the Student Council, the PTSG and the Athletic
Department are held throughout the school year. The following rules govern behavior at these events and other assemblies:
● Enter the assembly area and be seated in your assigned seats. Attendance will be taken by the teacher.
● As a courtesy to speakers or performers, no distracting behaviors or conversations
will be permitted. ● Whistling, booing, hissing and other distractions will not be tolerated.
● Leave the assembly area when excused as quickly and quietly as possible. ● Students are not permitted to have cell phones during assemblies.
● When a student is behaving inappropriately, s/he will be escorted from the assembly. We expect students to be respectful of the performers and project a
sense of school pride as a Chartiers Valley Middle School student.
d. LOST & FOUND/VALUABLES If an article has been lost or found, please notify the office. Prevent the loss of your personal property by labeling your valuables, give them to your teacher to hold for you,
keep them in a locked locker, or better yet, leave them at home. The school is not
responsible for lost valuables. This also includes any electronic devices such as cell phones, iPods, tablets and laptops.
32 | Page
e. LOST OR DAMAGED SCHOOL MATERIALS, TEXTBOOKS The Chartiers Valley Board of Directors has adopted a policy requiring a student or his/her parent to pay full replacement costs for any textbook or school material that was
lost or fees for materials damaged while they were assigned to the student. All financial obligations must be met before grades, transcripts, or records will be released. (Policy
#224)
f. TELEPHONE CALLS
Telephone calls to the school requesting that messages from parents be delivered to students should be restricted to emergency situations
only. We encourage students to refrain from calling home during the
school day. However, if a student needs to call home, he or she must come to the office. Students are not permitted to use cell phones
during the school day. If a student feels ill, he/she should request to see the nurse. Students should not call home to inform parents of feeling ill unless
permitted by the school nurse. Cell phones must remain away for the day.in the students’ lockers.
B. TRANSITION BETWEEN CLASSES We suggest that students use the following procedures when moving through the halls:
1. Follow Triple Crown Expectations!
2. Walk at all times, do not run.
3. Talk quietly. 4. Walk to the right of the hall.
5. Try to walk in small groups of 2-3. 6. Continue moving through heavy passage areas; do not congregate in these areas to
socialize.
7. Students must have a hall pass at all times when in the halls (other than during the designated class change).
a. HALL PASSES
Students must have a “yellow” hall pass or teacher designated pass at all times when given permission to leave class. Upon exit, it will be signed with the teacher’s initials and
destination. Once excused, each student must have a legitimate hall pass in his/her
possession. Students will also sign in and out when leaving the classroom. This will permit teachers/administrators to monitor the number of student requests to leave the
classroom within a given day and provide hall monitors with verification that the student is permitted to be out of the classroom.
b. HIGH SCHOOL CLOSED TO MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS
Middle school students are NOT permitted in the High School complex unless scheduled a class in the music wing. Students will not need to travel through the High School
complex unless going to classes assigned to the high school. Students are expected to walk appropriately to all scheduled classes in a timely fashion.
c. RESTROOM
Should the need arise, students are expected to use the restroom facilities during the pass time provided between classes. If the need arises while in class, the student must
obtain authorization from the teacher and obtain a hall pass. d. MIDDLE SCHOOL OFFICE
The middle school office handles records, telephone calls, visitors, grades, confidential reports, funds from activities, business and community representatives, etc. It is a place
of business that is extremely public. Disciplinary matters as well as student requests and
problems need to be handled in a very professional manner. Proper conduct is expected at all times as office personnel assist you. Appointments should be made in advance,
33 | Page
when possible, to speak with administration, guidance, or teachers. Students may visit
the office with an appropriate office or phone pass provided by the teacher. Use of the office phone privilege should be kept to a minimum, with exceptions made for
emergencies. The classroom teacher will be the first level of screening to determine if it is necessary for the student to place a call home. Once in the office, office personnel will
make the final determination as to whether or not the phone may be used. If the call
home is determined to be necessary, office personnel will assist you with the phone call. We encourage you to be responsible and to bring all necessary materials to school prior
to your arrival. e. BACKPACKS
Students are not permitted to carry backpacks or drawstring bags during the school day.
The only time that drawstring bags are permitted are when students are going to gym class. Backpacks may be carried to and from school, but must remain in the student’s
locker during the day. f. LOCKERS
Each student will be provided with a locker. It is the responsibility of each student to have a lock for their locker that they use daily. It is imperative for students to bring
a lock from home to secure personal belongings. Be sure to provide the
homeroom teacher with the combination and/or extra key for the locker in the event that the student forgets the combination or loses the key. If school staff does not have
access to the combination and/or key, and the student is unable to open his/her lock, the lock will be cut off from the locker and a new lock will need to be purchased. Do not
give another student your combination or share your locker with others. Each student is
responsible for any damage to the locker. If there is a problem with your locker, please inform your homeroom teacher. The sooner we know of any problems, the sooner we
can correct them.
Be sure to bring an extra combination lock for your gym lockers. Please leave valuables at home for security purposes.
C. CAFETERIA Follow Triple Crown Expectations!
Respect for others and others’ property will be demonstrated in our middle school cafeteria at all
times. Respect for teachers, cafeteria aides, food servers and cashiers is required. The same appropriate manners expected in any public eating area should be demonstrated at all times in
the cafeteria and LGI. Noncompliance with these expectations will result in a cafeteria timeout, removal to the Lunch Detention room, or other disciplinary actions (e.g., ILC, suspension, disorderly conduct charges, etc.). Lunch Procedures - Upon arrival in the cafeteria, students must be seated. The cafeteria is
divided into sections, with teachers assigned to each section. One section at a time will be permitted to enter the various food lines when authorized by the teachers in that section. The
order in which sections go to the food lines rotates daily.
You are expected to promptly dispose of your trash in the receptacle provided for your section after finishing your meal. It is expected that the cafeteria will be left in a clean and orderly
condition for the next group of students. Students are not permitted to leave the cafeteria during the lunch period unless excused by a teacher or administrator. Teachers on lunch duty
will dismiss students to return to class or attend Reset at the end of the lunch period.
Breakfast – Breakfast will be provided each morning from 7:30 – 7:57 AM for students who
wish to purchase breakfast before the beginning of school. A student eating breakfast should
34 | Page
report directly to café upon arrival to school. Once a student has finished eating breakfast, he or
she should clean up their area and properly dispose of trash and report directly to homeroom.
Reset - The opportunity for all MS students to have a mind/body break in the middle of the day to get active in the gym, socialize with friends, or step out onto the MS field for fresh air and
sunshine.
D. BUS/BUS STOP a. STUDENT ACTIVITY BUSES, ATHLETIC BUSES
Middle school students may stay after school for clubs, events and activities and take the 4:15 PM activity bus home. Students who make arrangements to be picked up must
ensure that their ride is at the school no later than 4:15 or the student will be required to board the activity bus at that time.
Middle school student athletes may stay after school for practice and ride the 5:30 PM
athletic bus home during their season. All students must be supervised by an adult/coach at all times when staying after school.
Students are to remain with their sponsor until boarding their bus. Students are not permitted to remain after school, unsupervised, until an event begins.
b. SCHOOL BUS/BUS STOP PROCEDURES
Follow Triple Crown Expectations!
Your bus driver has your life in his/her hands! He/she must concentrate all of his/her efforts on the safe operation of the bus and cannot afford to divert attention to handle
discipline problems with student passengers.
Meeting the bus:
1. Arrive at your pick-up point 10 minutes early. 2. Stand away from the road, behind the curb or edge of the street. (Do not disturb
lawns or property). 3. Do not play in the street or place books near the roadway.
4. Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before trying to enter. Board without pushing/shoving, remaining in a single file line.
5. If you must cross the street, be sure that the bus has come to a complete stop,
the signals are activated and the roadway is clear.
Leaving the bus:
1. Remain in your seat until the bus comes to a full stop!
2. Leave the bus in an orderly manner & do not loiter near or around the bus. 3. Be sure that you have items before exiting.
4. If you must cross the street, please walk 15 feet in front of the fender and go directly to the curb areas. (NEVER WALK BEHIND THE BUS)
Middle school students may only ride the middle school bus to which they are assigned. Middle school students cannot ride buses that transport high school students.
If there is an emergency situation and a student must ride a different bus, the parent must submit a written request to the office for a principal’s signature. As the office will contact
parents to verify all requests, please write a telephone number on the request to assist our
staff in reaching you more efficiently. IF YOU DO NOT BRING IN A NOTE, YOU WILL
35 | Page
NOT BE PERMITTED TO RIDE A BUS TO WHICH YOU ARE NOT ASSIGNED. If a bus is
full, the request may be denied.
SCHOOL BUS MISBEHAVIOR WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. YOU RISK LOSING YOUR RIDING PRIVILEGE.
Listed are some of the reasons that a student may receive a bus suspension. 1. Displaying disrespect or defiance to the bus driver
2. Throwing objects in or out of the bus (Also subject to littering charges) 3. Fighting on the bus
4. Smoking(vaping) on the bus
5. Lighting any object on the bus 6. Extending any part of the body out of the bus
7. Distracting the bus driver’s attention in any unnecessary way 8. Failing to remain seated
9. Causing a disturbance on the bus 10. Horseplay
11. Using obscene language
12. Boarding/departing the bus at an unassigned stop 13. No eating or drinking on the bus. The sale of food products is prohibited.
14. No live pets are permitted on the bus 15. Never tamper with the emergency door or other bus controls. Opening and closing the
front door is prohibited by anyone other than the driver.
16. Defacing or destroying school property (seats, windows, lights, etc.) Damage done to seats or other bus equipment must be paid for by you and/or your parents. Restitution or
immediate arrangements thereof, must be made before bus privileges will be restored 17. Any other violation of the CVSD Code of Conduct that occurs during transit to or from
school or an after school activity
Any littering from the bus or behavior posing a threat to the safety, health or well-being of the
driver or another student while in route may also become the jurisdiction of the local police resulting in citations and fines. Students and their parents are responsible for the restitution
of fines that might result from police intervention.
Disciplinary Action (Policy 810)
For a first offense misconduct report, the student will receive a warning, except when the offense is
deemed serious enough to warrant severe measures by the administration and/or Board. For a second offense, a temporary suspension of transportation privileges up to three (3) days will be invoked. The
principal will inform the student of the reasons for the suspension, and the student will be given the
opportunity to respond to the action.
The principal will also:
1. Contact the student’s parent/guardian, and give notice of the action.
2. Send a letter to the parent/guardian, with a copy to the Superintendent, giving a full report of the misconduct.
3. Inform the school bus driver of the action taken. 4. Provide an opportunity for a conference with the parent/guardian before the suspension is
terminated.
A student who commits a third offense will be given a five (5) day suspension from bus riding privileges.
As in the case of the second offense, the principal will implement the same adjudication procedures.
36 | Page
If repeated offenses result, a student could receive full suspension of school transportation privileges or
expulsion from school. The principal will conduct an informal hearing on the alleged violation.[10]
Any decision for an expulsion would be determined by the members of the Board.[10]
XI. STUDENT CHROMEBOOK LOAN AGREEMENT
One Chromebook will be lent to each Chartiers Valley Middle School student. The student acknowledges and agrees that the student’s use of the District property is a privilege and that by the student’s
agreement to the terms hereof, the student acknowledges the student’s responsibility to protect and
safeguard the District property and to return the same in good condition upon the request of the Chartiers Valley School District.
An email account will be available for each student to use for appropriate academic communication with
other students and staff members only. This email account is for communication within the Chartiers
Valley School District only.
The Chromebook is, and at all times remains, the Property of the Chartiers Valley School District and is herewith lent to the student for educational purposes only. The student may not deface or destroy the
property in any way. Students will be held responsible for the proper care and use of the Chromebook,
as is the case with all district-issued materials. Assessment and classification of damages (accidental vs. intentional/misuse) is the sole responsibility of the school district and the school’s findings and
determinations are final. Inappropriate use of the device may result in the student losing their right to use of the Chromebook.
Chromebook Reporting Procedures
Students should follow the appropriate steps when reporting a Chromebook issues:
1. See a house teacher/teacher
2. Teacher will determine if it is an urgent need. a. Urgent - A student will complete a computer report form and take, both, the
Chromebook and form to the office for principal review. The student will leave the
Chromebook and form in the office. b. Not urgent - A student will complete a computer report form and take the form only to
the principal. 3. Principal and tech will assess and determine if a loner, etc. Determination if a loner is
needed and/or appropriate next steps. a. Typical wear and tear - Tech will review and repair.
b. Misuse/neglect - Tech will review, repair and determine the appropriate repair cost(s).
Student will be assessed fees.
FEE STRUCTURE
Laptop LCD - Non Touch $75.00
Laptop LCD - Touch $200.00
37 | Page
Keyboard $100.00
Battery $75.00
Touchpad $55.00
Bezel $70.00
Cover $65.00
Power Input Cable $50.00
Power Adapter $30.00
Total Unit $450.00
XII. STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Chartiers Valley Middle School offers a variety of student activities. Students are strongly encouraged to
participate in school-related activities, as your participation will enrich the time you spend as a student at CVMS! Students are reminded that the behavioral expectations outlined in this handbook apply equally
while participating in student activities as they do during the regular school day.
STUDENT ACTIVITY BUSES, ATHLETIC BUSES Middle school students may stay after school for clubs, events and activities and take the 4:15 PM activity
bus home. Students who make arrangements to be picked up must ensure that their ride is at the school no later than 4:15 or the student will be required to board the activity bus at that time.
Middle school student athletes may stay after school for practice and ride the 5:30 PM athletic bus home
during their season. All students must be supervised by an adult/coach at all times when staying after school. Students are to
remain with their sponsor until boarding their bus. Students are not permitted to remain after school, unsupervised, until an event begins.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES The following represents an example of activities available for middle school students. Availability may fluctuate from year to year based on student interest and accessible supervision.
National Junior Honor Society Eligible students in 7th and 8th grade are asked to apply for acceptance into the National Junior Honor
Society after the first semester of each school year. Membership in the National Junior Honor Society is one of the highest honors that can be awarded to a student. Our chapter of National Junior Honor
Society works hard to bring the accomplishments of outstanding students to the attention of parents, teachers, peers, and the community. The application process looks at five core areas of achievement for
students: scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship.
● Scholarship – Students must maintain a 3.75 cumulative grade point average through the first semester to become eligible to apply for membership. Current members must also maintain that
same cumulative grade point average. ● Service – Students are asked to complete a section of the application highlighting the various
service activities that they have participated in during grades six through eight. Current
38 | Page
members must also participate in at least one individual and one group service project during the
school year. ● Leadership – Students are asked to complete a section of the application highlighting the various
service activities that they have participated in during grades six through eight. Current members will have the opportunity to take on additional leadership roles within the school such
as becoming officers or committee chairperson. ● Character/ Citizenship – After completed applications have been received, each student’s
character and citizenship within the building is reviewed. This includes, but is not limited to
behavior in class, discipline records, and general demeanor within the building. Current members must remain in good standing in all of these categories to maintain membership.
● Once students are selected by the Faculty Council, they are required to participate in the annual,
formal Induction Ceremony in the Spring to become full members.
Brain Teasers Club The Brain Teasers Club is an after school group run during the spring. It may involve solving scenarios
with robots and programs, working with a machine that will carve out wooden plaques, and other puzzles and activities. The group culminates with the construction and launching of model rockets.
Middle School Musical
The Middle School Musical contains effort and a lot of hard work. Many consider it fun and participate in it each year. There is practice at least two days a week and the final production takes place for one
show a night for three days. Musical is open to 6-8th graders and runs from January to late March. Glass Program
The glass program is an after school activity offered by the art department. This program helps develop
students’ glass techniques. There are two six week sessions offered; one in the fall and one in the spring. At the end of each session, there is a field trip to the Pittsburgh Glass Center.
Student Council The main project that we do for the school and community is the Turkey Trot, in which we collect money
and donate it to needy families in our community. Some of the other activities that our group participates in are the Student council spring conference, monthly doughnut sales and planning the 8th grade dinner
dance. The admission process to be a member of student council is to write a small essay about what
you want to do to improve are school. There are also different leadership positions you can apply for later. The most important thing is that it teaches valuable leadership skills for school and life in general.
Colt Leaders It is an orientation and transition program for all 6th graders and new 7th and 8th graders. It is a
chance for 8th graders to act as role models, leaders, and mentors to the newest group of students. Colt
Leaders will explain schedules and routines to their group members, act as mentors throughout the school year, and attend and run monthly meetings/social activities.
No Place for Hate Student Committee The committee meets to brainstorm anti-bully and inclusive campaigns, discuss plans and activities, and
put those plans into motion. The meetings are very open and student driven, with a strong focus on
breaking stereotypes. The student voice is heard and acknowledged, rather than summarily dismissed in favor of easy, general activities that can be dished out to schools everywhere. The activities are geared
and focused particularly to our school. Chorus/ Band/ Orchestra
Students interested in participating in these activities must have signed up for them on their course selection sheet at the time of scheduling.
Intramural Sports (6TH GRADE ONLY)
There is a tab on the middle school website giving information about each intramural sport offered. These sports take place at the Intermediate School. Sports offered include dodgeball and conditioning/
running, basketball, hockey, and kickball. Individual sign-ups for each sport will take place prior to each season.
Cheerleading
39 | Page
Cheerleading is available for 7th and 8th grade girls who tryout and make the squad. Tryouts are held at
the end of each school year for the following year. The girls are required to attend practices and games from June through December.
Yearbook Students that wish to participate on the yearbook staff should sign up at the beginning of the school
year. They will work on yearbook layout, design, and distribution.
Newspaper Students that enjoy writing can join the CVMS newspaper. There are sign ups at the beginning of the
year. Students will work on publishing multiple editions of the newspaper each year. Science Fair (Night of Science)
Students will receive information on science fair in their regular science classes in the fall. There will be a
school science fair, and winners in each category will advance to the regional science fair.
SCHOOL DANCES
Our PTSG and student leadership team will plan school dances. Dances will be limited to Chartiers Valley
Middle School students only, and some dances may be limited to specific grade levels. Evening dances
end at 9:00 PM. Students will be permitted to leave the dance at the end time.
At Chartiers Valley Middle School it’s our goal for all students to participate in fun filled activities and
events. For students to have an enjoyable and safe experience, students’ appropriate conduct and
respectful school behavior is an expectation.
In order to be eligible for Middle School field trips and special events, students must not be in violation of
school discipline policies.
● Student receives a discipline consequence in the period between when the permission form is
distributed and the day of the event, a subsequent consequence can be the student is not able to
attend the event.
● Student receives an OSS (Out of School Suspension) during the 9 weeks of the event, the
student is ineligible to participate/attend.
● Student receives a disciplinary infraction during the week of the event, the student is ineligible to
participate/attend.
Please make arrangements to pick up your child promptly at 9:00 PM or the designated
end time. Under no circumstances will middle school students be permitted to walk from
the dance.
40 | Page
XII. ATHLETICS
Athletic “eligibility” is a requirement that must be fulfilled according to school policy as well as the
Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) and/or the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic
Athletic League (WPIAL). The participating student may not receive 2 F’s in a grading period and be eligible to play a sport. The student’s teachers will inform the principals of the academic standing and a
determination will be made. Eligibility during the season will continue to be monitored on a weekly basis, as maintaining good grades comes above participating in a sport. Students are also reminded that if you
are absent from school on the day of a contest or are under a suspension consequence, you may not participate in the sporting event for that day(s).
Proper sportsmanlike conduct is expected at all athletic events. Rules for athletic courtesy are as follows: 1. Visiting teams are to be honored guests of the home team, and should be treated as such.
2. Remember that a student spectator represents this school as well as the athlete. 3. Any spectator who continually evidences poor sportsmanship will be barred from future
contests.
4. Decisions of officials are to be abided by, even when they may appear incorrect. 5. Good traits in others should be appreciated and suitably recognized – home or visiting team.
6. Students may not remain after school while waiting for the contest to begin.
More information on CVMS Athletic programs may be obtained by contacting the CVSD Athletic Office 412-429-2244.
INTERSCHOLASTIC SPORTS FOR THE MIDDLE SCHOOL
FALL BOYS GIRLS
Football 7 & 8 Soccer
Soccer Swimming Swimming Volleyball
Cross Country Cross Country
WINTER
Basketball Basketball Wrestling
SPRING
Track Softball Baseball (9th grade team) Track
CLUB SPORTS Ice Hockey Lacrosse
Lacrosse
41 | Page
Chartiers Valley School District
Board of School Directors
Mark Kuczinski, President
Darren Mariano, Vice President
Jeff Choura
Robert Kearney
Brian Kopec
Eric Kraemer
Tony Mazzarini
Julie Murphy
Sandy Zeleznik
Central Office Administration
Johanna Vanatta, Ed.D., Superintendent
Scott Seltzer, Assistant Superintendent for School Leadership
Misty Slavic, Ed.D., Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum
and Assessment
Amy Wodnicki, Ed.D., Director of Student Services
Middle School Administration
Michele Welter, Ed.D., Principal
TBD, Assistant Principal
