PRINCIPAL'S MESSAGE

WELCOME! Whether you are a newcomer to Alvarado Middle School (AMS) or an "old timer," I hope you will find this school year to be a memorable and exciting one. Cooperation is the key and toward that end, I suggest that you read this handbook carefully. This handbook will tell you exactly what is expected of you and what services and benefits you can expect from Alvarado Middle School. Each grade has a "magic word" which symbolizes an orderly growth and development plan for all students.

Students develop a feeling of security at a new school when they know what is expected of them. They also need a visible demonstration that the staff will enforce the rules. Children have no difficulty following sensible rules as long as they know that those who choose not to follow the rules will be dealt with according to the consequences in the Student Handbook.

Grade 6 - RESPECT

Great changes occur when a student begins middle school. Respect the first “magic word” is the key to success at this level. Students demonstrate their own value to themselves. They have respect for their own accomplishments and they recognize accomplishment on the part of others. Each student is an individual within a larger group that has a common cause in school. Showing respect gains respect. Teachers who show respect for their students are respected by their students. The example is visible daily.

Grade 7 - LEARN

It is expected that students in their second year at this school will focus their energies on the reason they attend school. They are here to learn. It is expected that they demonstrate to themselves, their parents, and the school staff that they are serious about learning. Nothing less than a best effort is acceptable. Seventh-graders have daily contact with a larger number of staff members. They are more aware of how adults at the school relate with other people. They are forming new class groupings each period of the school day. They are seeking ways to gain respect for themselves in each new setting.

Grade 8 - PRIDE

Pride is the final "magic word." It is a feeling gathered through the sharing of respect for self and others. It states that students know who they are as individuals and as classmates. It states the acceptance of responsibility for student leadership and example within the school. It demonstrates a model of purpose and togetherness for students in the lower grades. It produces gains in academic achievement. It brings tears at the Eighth Grade Promotion. It exemplifies the spirit of Alvarado Middle School.

Yvonne A. Hull PRINCIPAL

ALVARADO MIDDLE SCHOOL SCHEDULE 2007-2008

GRADE 7/8 GRADE 6/7

FIRST BELL 8:15 FIRST BELL 8:15PERIOD 1 - 8:20 - 9:13 PERIOD 1 - 8:20 - 9:13 PERIOD 2 - 9:18 - 10:08 PERIOD 2 - 9:18 - 10:08 BREAK - 10:08 - 10:18 BREAK - 10:08 - 10:18 PERIOD 3 - 10:23 - 11:13 PERIOD 3 - 10:23 - 11:13 PERIOD 4 - 11:18 - 12:08 LUNCH - 11:13 - 11:50 LUNCH - 12:08 - 12:45 PERIOD 5 - 11:55 - 12:45 PERIOD 6 - 12:50 - 1:40 PERIOD 6 - 12:50 - 1:40 PERIOD 7 - 1:45 - 2:35 PERIOD 7 - 1:45 - 2:35

MINIMUM DAY SCHEDULE

FIRST BELL 8:15 PERIOD 1 – 8:20 – 8:50 PERIOD 2 – 8:55 – 9:20 PERIOD 3 – 9:25 – 9:50 BREAK - 9:50 – 10:00 PER. 4/5 – 10:05 – 10:30 PERIOD 6 – 10:35 – 11:00 PERIOD 7 – 11:05 – 11:30

DETENTION: 2:40 - 3:20 (TWTH)SATURDAY SCHOOL (LAST SATURDAY OF EACH MONTH)

OFFICE HOURS: 7:45 - 3:45

CAMPUS HOURS

Parents should enter the office through the front entrance facing the parking lot.

Students should not arrive on campus before 8:00 a.m. on regular days. Unless scheduled for an after school activity, all students must leave campus when school is dismissed.

Students are encouraged to participate in after school activities. Students who act inappropriately after school will be asked to leave the campus. Disciplinary action may be enforced. Finally, if students are not involved in an organized, supervised activity with a staff member on campus, they need to leave campus after the final bell rings.

STUDENTS ARE PROHIBITED FROM BEING ON ANY OTHER CAMPUS during school hours, or while any activities are taking place, unless prior permission has been obtained from the principal of the school. The school does not sign permission slips for student to attend dances at other schools.

ATTENDANCE PROCEDURE

Regular school attendance can be a key factor in academic success. The staff at Alvarado Middle School encourages all students to attend school every day. In keeping with this, each teacher will monitor and record all student absences. In the event of an absence, the attendance procedures, as outlined below, must be followed.

1. On the first day of an absence, the parent or guardian should notify the school of the student's absence. The telephone number is 489-0700.

2. If a call was not made to verify an absence, students are required to bring a note to the office window before school on their first day back to school.

3. Notes must contain the following information:

a. First and last name of student and Student ID # b. The reason for absence c. The days/dates absent (date, and year) d. The signature of PARENT or GUARDIAN

4. Students who will be absent for 3 or more days and request homework must allow the office 24 hours to secure assignments from the teachers. (More specific information is listed under "Homework Request Policy.")

5. If student absences are not cleared by parent contact, the absence will be listed as unexcused and/or will be considered a “cut”.

6. State law permits the following reasons for excused absence or tardies: a. Illness b. Dental or medical appointments c. Death in immediate family (Not more than 1 day in California and not more than 3 days if outside California) d. Authorized religious holidays e. Subpoena to court f. Quarantine g. School-sponsored activity

ALL OTHER ABSENCES ARE UNEXCUSED.

7. If an absence of 3 or more periods and/or 3 days of unexcused absence have not been cleared through parent contact or note, it will result in truancy letter being sent. Every effort will be made to contact the parent by phone by the end of each day to clear any absences.

8. The counselor will hold a conference with the parent of any student who has accumulated 6 days of unexcused absences.

9. Students who accumulate 9 OR MORE DAYS of unexcused absences will be referred by the Assistant Principal to the School Resource Team. The Assistant Principal will schedule a parent conference to set criteria for acceptable attendance, and plan for success of student.

10. The Assistant Principal will also refer any student with 12 unexcused or 15 excused absences to the School Attendance Review Board (SARB).

11. If the above actions fail, the parent or legal guardian of any excessively truant student may be referred to the District Attorney's office for legal action.

12. Once a student has had10 absences in a school year for illness verified by phone or written note, all further absences for illness MUST be verified by a physician.

INDEPENDENT STUDY

Students absent for family travel of 5 days or more may apply for Independent Study by obtaining a form from their counselor and returning a completed application form to their school counselor at least five school days before departure. All work must be completed & returned to the teacher on the day the student returns to school in order to earn Independent Study Credit. Student is responsible for turning in all required forms. If Independent Study is not requested, absences will be considered unexcused and truancy letters will be sent home.

HOMEWORK REQUEST POLICY

1. Parents may request homework through the office for a student who will be out ill for 3 or more days.

2. If a student is to be out for an extended absence, the parent should contact the office as soon as possible with information about the length of absence, reason, and request for work. The office clerk will complete "homework request" forms and place each in the appropriate teacher's box.

3. Teachers will respond by 2:00 p.m. of the NEXT work day, enclosing the appropriate homework assignment to cover the anticipated days of absence.

4. The counselor will organize, supervise, and be responsible for seeing that the system works. Parents should contact a counselor if they have questions about the homework requests.

TARDY PROCEDURE

1. Students will report to class before the tardy bell rings.

2. Every teacher will monitor and record all tardies.

3. Any student who is tardy to school must report to class if it is not 8:30 a.m., if after 8:30 a.m. student must come to the student window to receive a late pass. Bring a note from parent stating the reason, when possible. The following are acceptable tardy excuses if cleared by parent or guardian.

a. Illness b. Dental or medical appointments c. Death in immediate family (1 day in California, 3 days if outside of state) d. Authorized religious holidays e. Subpoena to Court

GETTING UP TOO LATE, MISSING THE BUS, or CAR PROBLEMS are NON- EXCUSED.

4. If tardy more than 30 minutes to 1st period, it will be counted as a cut and 1 day of detention will be assigned.

5. After a student has received three tardies to any class or classes, the student will receive after-school detention. Every subsequent tardy will result in an after-school detention. When a student reaches 6 tardies per qtr. he/she will be placed on exclusion.

The student will receive a PARENT NOTIFICATION DETENTION FORM indicating the day and time and place of the assigned detention. Detention is held Tuesday through Thrusday from 2:40 - 3:20 p.m.* A STUDENT FAILING TO SERVE ASSIGNED AFTER-SCHOOL DETENTION WILL BE ESCORTED TO DETENTION THE FOLLOWING DAY, OR WILL BE GIVEN A REMINDER. IN ADDITION, STUDENTS WHO HABITUALLY SKIP THEIR ASSIGNED DETENTIONS CAN BE GIVEN ADDITIONAL CONSEQUENCES WHICH COULD INCLUDE AFTER SCHOOL CLEAN UP, ALTERNATIVE CENTER, SATURDAY SCHOOL OR SUSPENSION. According to the California Administrative code, Title V, Sec. 353, students may be held a maximum of one hour after school. *A student is expected to present a signed PARENT NOTIFICATION DETENTION FORM when admitted to detention. Students who present a signed permission slip will be able to leave 10 minutes early, at 3:10 p.m. instead of 3:20 p.m.

6. Report cards will indicate total tardies and absences for each period.

7. Bus transportation is provided and a schedule will be posted.

5. Students with a chronic tardy problem (20 tardies in one semester) may be required to conference with their parents and the assistant principal. A student with a chronic tardy problem may be referred to the principal/or SARB.

CAMPUS PROCEDURES

CLOSED CAMPUS

STUDENTS MAY NOT LEAVE THE CAMPUS WITHOUT AN OFF-GROUNDS PASS

Students will be allowed to leave for lunch only if the following conditions exist:

1. The student has a verified medical problem which requires the student to go home for specified medical reasons, AND

2. The school is provided with verification of adult supervision at home during this period.

NOTE: Administrators may allow students to leave in emergency situations if it can be shown that adult supervision is provided.

VISITORS ON CAMPUS

Parents and legal guardians are encouraged to visit the school, we however request a 24 hour notice to arrange a visit. Other community members may visit on official business or field trips. However, all visitors are required to go to the office before and received a visitor’s badge. All badges must be visible at all times while on campus.

NO VISITORS ARE ALLOWED ON CAMPUS WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM THE PRINCIPAL, AND A PASS FROM THE OFFICE. HOWEVER, IT IS NOT APPROPRIATE FOR PARENTS TO SIT AND HAVE LUNCH WITH STUDENTS IN THE GENERAL POPULATION. CHECK WITH ADMINISTRATION FOR DETAILS. AMS STUDENTS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO GO TO ANOTHER SCHOOL CAMPUS WITHOUT PERMISSION FROM THE OTHER SCHOOL PRINCIPAL.

STUDENT ID CARDS

Student ID cards are provided free to all students. Students are required to carry their student ID card at all times on campus and must present it if requested by a staff member. Student ID cards will be required for entry into school events (basketball games, dances, etc.) and to check out materials from the Media Center or balls from the noon supervisor. All replacements for a lost or stolen card will cost $3.00.

OFFICE PROCEDURE

When a student has business, questions, or concerns, he or she should go to the STUDENTWINDOW at the office FIRST. Students may enter the office only with permission and sign in on the Sign-In-Sheet. If the question/concern cannot be answered there, the clerk will tell the student where he/she can get the required information or attention.

Students violating this procedure (coming into the office without permission) may be assigned detention or other appropriate consequence.

LOST AND FOUND

Any lost items should be reported to the office immediately. Lost and found is located in the Counseling Center. Check before school, during lunch periods, and after school for lost articles. Do not bring large sums of money or other valuables to school. ALL BELONGINGS SHOULD BE LABELED. The school cannot be held responsible for personal belongings or money left in classrooms, P.E. locker rooms, athletic fields, lockers, or elsewhere on the campus. Each quarter, all unclaimed items will be given to a charitable institution. ALL ARTICLES OF CLOTHING OR OTHER PERSONAL ITEMS MUST BE MARKED WITH THE STUDENT’S NAME. Found items must be turned in immediately to the nearest teacher or the office.

USE OF TELEPHONE

Telephones in the office are not for student use except in cases of emergency, and ONLY with permission from a teacher or an administrator.

OFF-LIMITS AREAS

FOR YOUR SAFETY AND PROTECTION, THE FOLLOWING AREAS ARE OFF-LIMITS:

1. Any areas under construction2. Parking areas, and front walkway by office3. Behind S Cluster and W Cluster4. Alvarado Elementary School (unless as an assigned tutor)5. Planted areas and lawns, except for the play field6. Loitering near bike racks during school hours7. All Clusters during lunch8. Science wing during lunch9. Behind science quad and locker rooms10. In office without permission11. Track is off limits at lunchtime

BICYCLES/SKATEBOARDS

Students must wear an approved safety helmet in order to ride a bicycle to school. Bicycles must be walked on campus to the bike rack. Since the school cannot be responsible for lost or damaged bicycles, please do not bring expensive bikes (or easily removable parts) to school. DO NOT RIDE BICYCLES ON CAMPUS. Bikes must be locked to the bike rack.

STUDENTS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO BRING SKATEBOARDS, ROLLER SKATES, SCOOTERS, AND SHOES WITH WHEELS OR ROLLER BLADES AT ANY TIME.

FIELD TRIPS

Students must have a permission slip or note signed by a parent or legal guardian to attend a school-sponsored field trip.

HARASSMENT/SEXUAL HARASSMENT

The District Policy on Sexual Harassment is posted in the office, the Student Union, andthe Counseling Center. Policies on physical or sexual harassment will be enforced. Students should report alleged incidents of harassment to a counselor or Assistant Principal.

PARENT/TEACHER COMMUNICATION

Parent/Teacher communication is encouraged through the Cougar Calendar as well as by telephone, email, marque, “What’s up AMS” (on line bulletin service) or personal visit. Students are required to write homework assignments in their Cougar Calendars. Space is also provided for teacher comments and parent comments. Parents are encouraged to check the calendar each night and make sure that students have completed their assignments. Parents may contact their student's counselor for additional information or assistance. Also, each student should have a plastic insert that holds information. Like the elementary Thursday Envelope, students should utilize this tool for school to home communication.

COUNSELING

There are three counselors to help students with class schedules, study habits, attendance problems, academic goals, personal problems, or problems between students. Students should not wait until a problem becomes extreme before seeing a counselor. To make an appointment with a counselor, a student should go to the Counseling Center before school, during break, lunch, or after school. Parents should feel free to call a counselor at anytime during the school day.

COUGAR PRIDE CARD

Students who contribute to a positive environment at Alvarado Middle School may receive a Cougar Pride Card as an award. The card may be awarded to students by any AMS staff member. The student's name will be entered in the next drawing for a special tangible reward, and the student may be recognized at an assembly.

TRANSFERRING

The parents of a student who is transferring to another school may submit a letter, phone the registration clerk, or come into the school office to speak with the registration clerk regarding verification of transfer and sign a Student Drop Slip. All absences must be cleared in cooperation with the attendance clerk at this time. On the last day the student is enrolled at AMS, the student must get a Pupil Transfer Form from the office and, during the day secure the signature of all the student's teachers and Media Center Specialist (Librarian.) All books must be turned in to teachers and lockers cleaned out (if one has a locker.) The Transfer Form should be returned to the office clerk at the end of the day. If any debts are owed, the student or parents should pay the debts and receive a receipt. The student will then receive his/her completed checkout sheet, including immunization information. The school to which the student is transferring will request the cumulative records. AMS will then send the records to the student's new school, provided all debts have been paid.

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

CLASSROOM INTERRUPTIONS/ITEMS BROUGHT FOR STUDENTS/BUILDINGRESPONSIBILITY

One of Alvarado Middle’s goals is to teach students to be organized and to accept the consequences of their behavior. Students are expected to bring all materials that they need to school with them. Therefore, classrooms will not be interrupted to deliver items to students or to give them messages unless it is an emergency as determined by the administration. If items or messages are received between the start of classes and the morning break, students will be told to come to the student window by an announcement at the beginning of break. If items or messages are received after break, a call slip will be sent to their classroom for them to pick up the item/message at the student window during lunch or immediately after school. Lunches, instruments, electronic equipment, uniforms or assignments, etc. will not be delivered to the classroom. PE clothes brought to the office will be delivered to the PE Teacher. The student will have points deducted for the day. Balloons should not be delivered or brought to school.

If the delivery of lunches or lunch money becomes a habit, the student will be expected to check at the student window without being notified.

ACADEMIC SUCCESS

CLASS PREPARATION

Students are expected to arrive in class prepared. "Being prepared" means having a pencil and/or pen, paper, textbooks, and completed assignments.

To ensure consistency throughout the school, students are required to use the following heading on all paper work:

SUBJECT (Period) STUDENT'S NAME TEACHER'S NAME DATE/No Abbreviations

BINDERS

Binders are required for all students. Students will be taught to use a binder to increase their study skills and organization. Each student is responsible for maintaining the binder throughout the school year. Each binder is to be organized into sections, with tabs for each class. Papers are to be placed in the binder using the three rings provided. The binder must include the student handbook, a calendar for assignments, current assignments, extra binder paper, and pencil pouch. The binder program is part of a school time commitment to increase the student's efficiency for learning.

ALL STUDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO CARRY A BINDER TO AND FROM SCHOOL DAILY. CARRYING A BINDER EXEMPLIFIES THE CORRECT ATTITUDE TOWARD LEARNING.

BACKPACKS

Students need to have backpacks that fit into their student lockers (10" in width by 18" in height by 12" in depth). Students will NOT be allowed to bring backpacks to their classes or PE for safety and supervision purposes. A backpack is anything that goes on the back and is large enough to hold a textbook or PE clothes.

REPORT CARDS

The school year is divided into four quarters, approximately nine weeks each. Approximately 5 to 6 weeks into the quarter, deficiency/progress reports are mailed for any student receiving "D" or "F" grades.

SCHOLASTIC ACHIEVEMENT

Students with a "B" average (3.0-3.69) will be on the school Honor Roll. Students with a higher average (3.7-4.0) will be on the Principal's Honor Roll. Awards will be given to outstanding students at the end of the year. An Honors Reception occurs at the end of the year for Principals Honor Roll.

CJSF (California Junior Scholarship Federation)

Seventh and eighth grade students who meet the scholastic requirements are eligible for membership in the Alvarado Middle School Chapter of the California Junior Scholarship Federation. Membership is open to qualified students at the beginning of each quarter. Requirements are posted in the counselor's office.

INJURY OR ILLNESS

Health services are not provided at Alvarado Middle School. Students who are ill should not come to school. The student who arrives at school ill may be endangering his or her own health and the health of other students. Parents can assist by adhering to the following suggestions.

1. Check on the health of students each morning before they leave for school and keep students home if they have an elevated temperature or other signs of illness.

2. Make careful plans for emergency care if parents are to be away from home or are otherwise unavailable.

3. Be prepared to provide transportation home for students who become ill at school.

4. If a student must take prescribed medication during the school day, he or she is to bring the medicine to the office with a note from the parent explaining the time and dosage required. It will be given to the student by the office personnel upon written request from the parent.

5. Please submit an up-to-date student emergency information form to the school at the beginning of the school year or upon enrollment. The form must include LOCAL names, addresses, and telephone numbers of appropriate person(s) to call in case of emergency.

STUDENT EMERGENCY INFORMATION FORM

If a student becomes ill or is injured at school, the school will contact the appropriate person using the information the parent has provided on the student emergency information form. This form must list an emergency phone number in addition to the name, address, and phone number of the guardian. IT IS ESPECIALLY IMPORTANT, THEREFORE, THAT ANY CHANGES IN THE FAMILY ADDRESS OR EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBER BE REPORTED AT ONCE TO THE SCHOOL. IT IS VITAL THAT THERE BE LOCAL CONTACTS ON EACH STUDENT INFORMATION FORM IN CASE OF ACCIDENT OR ILLNESS.

STUDENT INSURANCE

An opportunity to purchase student accident insurance is offered annually. Two types of insurance policies are offered. One provides accident insurance for accidents occurring during the school day or at school-sponsored activities. The other policy provides 24-hour accident insurance. Details about coverage, cost of the policy, and enrollment procedures are announced at the beginning of the school year.

Medical and accident insurance is required for students who wish to participate in after-school sports activities.

P.E. PARTICIPATION

Students may be excused from participation in P.E. activities for up to 5 days with a note from the parent. To be excused for more than 5 days requires a note from a doctor stating the student's physical problem. Students are allowed to make up any or all work missed while out on an EXCUSED absence. Each student will receive a more detailed letter containing information on physical education policy and procedure at the beginning of the school year.

STUDENT ACTIVITIES

Activities which are available to students are tutoring, clubs, and sports - lunch time and after-school. You will find out more about these activities after school begins.

LISTEN TO DAILY ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR INFORMATION REGARDING ACTIVITIES.

LUNCH PROGRAM

Hot lunches will be served in the multi-purpose room. Students are required to leave their eating area clean and free of litter. Throwing food, cutting in line, and general misbehavior may result in suspension from the multi-purpose room, or from school, depending on the nature of the offense. In most cases, lunch clean up will be assigned. Students may also bring a bag lunch or buy food items such as hot dogs, hamburgers, burritos, cookies, milk, and juice from the snack bar. Students may not take food out of designated eating areas (cafeteria and lunch patio area). Food is available for purchase at break time.

Students who qualify for free or reduced lunch should contact their counselor or inquire at the office.

Students participating in noontime sports should eat lunch before participating. Students will not be permitted to have late lunch due to involvement in noon-hour sports program.

THE SCHOOL DOES NOT LOAN MONEY TO STUDENTS.

LOCKERS/LOCKS

Receiving and using a locker will indicate acceptance of the responsibility involved in having a locker. Any student who does not want to be responsible for a locker is not required to have one issued. Students will be responsible for the care of their lockers. Students are cautioned to use only the locker which will be personally assigned to them. STUDENTS ARE NOT TO SHARE LOCKERS WITH OTHERS. Students are responsible for all school materials issued to them. The school is not responsible for any lost or stolen items that students keep in lockers.

Students are to learn to open and close lockers properly. Sharing the combination to a locker, or misusing lockers, such as kicking or pounding them, will result in loss of locker privileges or other consequences. Again - DO NOT SHARE COMBINATIONS. Security beyond confidentiality of locker combinations is not within the control of administration.

Students are responsible for all school materials and no extra locks are to be used. If extra locks are found, they will be removed and not returned. Any lock placed on lockers in the clusters and PE lockers that are not school issued may be removed by cutting them off.

Only items necessary to the student’s work at school should be kept in lockers. Students are not to be at their lockers during class time without written permission from teachers. 6th grade students may only go to their lockers at the following times:

1) Before School2) 15 Minute Break Period3) Passing period immediately before lunch and after lunch4) After school

ALL PERSONAL ITEMS, INCLUDING CLOTHING, SHOULD BE MARKED WITH THE STUDENT’S NAME FOR IDENTIFICATION.

Any student who has a problem with a locker should fill out a locker complaint form. Locker complaint forms are available at the student window.

Lockers are subject to inspection by school authorities.

STUDENT DEBTS

A master list of students who owe money to the school will be compiled in the office. Sources for this information will be as follows:

1. Any debt for lost or damaged books or Library books not turned in on time will be added to a debtor list.

2. Uniforms and other equipment not returned by due date will result in the student's name being placed on the debtors list. Pay clerk in the office.

3. Fundraisers - A student who has not turned in money owed for a fundraiser or club fees will be listed on the debtors list.

CONSEQUENCES - Adequate notice is given to students and parents concerning debts owed to the school. Once names are added to the master list the student will be on EXCLUSION. The following consequences will be in effect until the debt has been cleared:

1. No library privileges.2. No participation in co-curricular activities.3. Report cards will not be mailed, but held for parents who must call for them

during office hours.4. Exclusion from end-of-year grade level activities. Exclusion will be removed once debts

have been cleared. Debts maybe paid by cash or check. There is a $25 fee for returned checks.

TEXTBOOKS

Bar coded textbooks will be issued to all students. Students are expected to keep books clean, unmarked, and without torn pages. Textbooks must be covered. Papers must not be kept inside books as books are damaged in that manner. Students will be expected to pay for lost or damaged textbooks and library books. Textbooks returned without a barcode will not be credited to the student. If a previously lost book is found, undamaged, within a 1-year period, a student's money will be refunded. This procedure also applies to library books. Formal, school-wide book inventories may be taken at the end of each quarter.

BUS SAFETY RULES

1. Arrive at the bus stop no more than 5 minutes early. 2. Stay off private property when in transit to and from the bus stop. 3. Form orderly lines at the bus stop. Continue to stay off private property.

4. Do not bring balls, frisbees, skateboards, animals, insects, glass containers, or large parcels, etc., to the bus stop or onto the bus.

5. Board and depart the bus as directed by the bus driver. 6. Face forward and stay seated while riding the bus. 7. Do not tamper with bus equipment. 8. Do not make loud, unnecessary noise or use profane language or obscene gestures. 9. Do not damage or deface the bus. Damage WILL be paid for by the student responsible.10. Do not throw anything inside the bus, or out the windows.11. Keep all body parts inside the bus.12. Do not eat, drink, light matches, or smoke on the bus.13. Do not fight, push, or roughhouse on the bus.14. Follow the directions of the bus driver at all times.15. Be considerate and courteous. Your behavior should be a source of pride.

If a student breaks ANY of the bus rules, he or she will be given a bus citation by the bus driver. A citation is the same as a referral. The citation will be given to the assistant principal, who will contact the student's parents. On a second citation, a student will be suspended from riding the bus for a period of time. IF A STUDENT CONTINUES TO DISOBEY THE RULES, HE OR SHE MAY BE SUSPENDED FROM RIDING THE BUS FOR THE REST OF THE SCHOOL YEAR. THESE RULES ALSO APPLY ON FIELD TRIPS. COURTEOUS AND SAFE BEHAVIOR IS ALWAYS EXPECTED OF AMS STUDENTS. REMEMBER, YOU REPRESENT ALVARADO MIDDLE SCHOOL.

BEHAVIOR

ALVARADO MIDDLE SCHOOL - STUDENT RIGHTS

At Alvarado Middle School, all persons have the following rights:

1) the right to learn, 2) the right to be safe, and feel safe, 3) the right to be respected as a person, 4) the right to be treated with kindness and courtesy

DEGRADING AND INFLAMMATORY STATEMENTS NHUSD Board Policies 5137 and 5145.3

The school shall not tolerate any comments or gestures which are vulgar or obscene or which denigrate others on account of sex, race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, handicap or disadvantage. Students shall be subject to disciplinary procedures for bullying other students or for using insults, slurs, or fighting words which may disrupt school activities.

DRESS CODE

The tone and learning atmosphere of a school area dramatically improved when students and staff maintain high standards of appearance. Students should come to school in attire that is appropriate and conducive to a safe and supportive learning environment. To this end the district and school sites will provide parents with a dress code policy and behavior policy the beginning of the school year.

NO RADIOS, TAPE RECORDERS AND ELECTRONIC DEVICES

TO ELIMINATE THE DISTRACTION CAUSED BY EXCESSIVE NOISE AND TO AVOID PROBLEMS OF BROKEN, LOST, OR STOLEN PROPERTY, STUDENTS SHOULD BE ADVISED THAT THEY ARE NOT TO BRING RADIOS, TAPE PLAYERS, MINI-TVS, WALKMAN, MP3 PLAYERS, HAND HELD ELECTRONIC GAMES, I POD’S, PAGING DEVICES (BEEPERS), AND OTHER DISRUPTIVE DEVICES, TO SCHOOL. FIELD TRIPS ARE AN EXCEPTION WITH ADMINISTRATOR APPROVAL. CONFISCATED ITEMS WILL NEED TO BE PICKED UP BY A PARENT AND/OR GUARDIAN.

CELL PHONES MUST BE TURNED OFF AND NOT VISIBLE DURING SCHOOL HOURS. CELL PHONES THAT ARE CONFISCATED WILL NEED TO BE PICKED UP BY A PARENT. REPEATED VIOLATIONS COULD LEAD UP TO AND INCLUDING DETENTION, ALTERNATIVE CENTER OR SUSPENSION.

CHEATING/PLAGIARISM

When a student is guilty of cheating, the teacher shall collect the student's paper, mark a zero for the work, and notify the parent and office immediately as to the action taken. A second offense will bring automatic suspension from school. Plagiarism, the copying of work without giving proper credit, is not allowed.

INTERNET

Internet is not a private line. Students who access Internet must do so under a teacher’s supervision. Violation of this privilege may result in any or all of the following: warning, suspension of privileges, parent contact and/or suspension.

SMOKING CONSEQUENCES

Students who smoke at school or at school events or who bring tobacco products to school or to school events will be subject to EXPULSION. The following consequences will apply:

1ST OFFENSE 3 DAYS IN-HOUSE SUSPENSION 2ND OFFENSE 3 DAYS HOME SUSPENSION 3RD OFFENSE 5 DAYS HOME SUSPENSION PLUS EXPULSION

RECOMMENDATION

PHYSICAL SEARCH

Physical search authorized by the principal or his/her designee may include student's clothing, lockers, book bags, and/or property belonging to or being used by student.

BEHAVIOR/CONSEQUENCES

CAMPUS RULES

The following rules include the types of behavior unacceptable at all middle schools and other school activities. Included are examples of possible consequences of each behavior. Other inappropriate behaviors will also lead to consequences, even if not specifically listed.

It is important that all students read this section carefully and have a clear understanding of the rules and consequences. Students may be assigned the same consequences for misbehavior occurring to and from school as are indicated for infractions while on school campuses or at school-sponsored events. Students will be held accountable for following these rules and should be aware that not understanding a rule or not knowing about it is not an acceptable excuse for misbehavior. If you do not understand any of these rules or have questions about them after your teacher has covered the material in class, you should see your counselor or assistant principal.

STUDENTS WILL BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR THEIR CONDUCT TO AND FROM SCHOOL AS WELL AS DURING SCHOOL HOURS AND SCHOOL-SPONSORED EVENTS. STUDENTS WILL BE ACCOUNTABLE FOR THEIR BEHAVIOR DURING NON-SCHOOL HOURS WHICH AFFECTS THEIR SCHOOL ATTENDANCE OR THE SCHOOL ATTENDANCE OF OTHER STUDENTS.

While the consequences listed below for the various unacceptable behaviors will be generally followed, the school administration may at any time place a student on suspension or expulsion if it is determined that such an action best serves the interest of the student(s) and/or the school.

Any student who has been in Alternative Center, detention or suspended from school may not participate or observe any extra curricular activities that day.

"TYPE A" BEHAVIORS: CONSEQUENCES FOR "TYPE A" BEHAVIORS(Observed in classroom (In order of increased severity) or campus)- any behavior that disrupts - conference with student teaching or learning - additional assignments- materials for class missing - teacher-held detention- not paying attention - parent contact/conference- non-participation in class - parent contact notice- incomplete assignments or - referral to SRT-teacher plan homework - classroom suspension by - non-dress for P.E. teacher- food and drink in undesignated - counselor referral area a. individual conference- NO GUM CHEWING, NO SUNFLOWER b. conference with parent SEEDS ON SCHOOL GROUNDS c. round table meeting with- disobeying a school employee, resource staff refusing to follow directions d. schedule change or failure to attend teacher- e. peer counseling-advice assigned detention f. referral to SRT- failure to return signed g. behavior strategy plan materials from parents - campus cleanup- spreading rumors - after-school detention- belongings left unattended - suspension- vulgar gestures

"TYPE B" BEHAVIORS: CONSEQUENCES FOR "TYPE B" BEHAVIORS (Related to the nature of the offense)

- REPEATED TYPE A BEHAVIORS - student conference- harassment or abuse of other - all teacher conferences students - parent contact/conference- tardies (3 or more) - lunch time/office detention- cuts - campus cleanup- disturbing classes in session - after-school detention- littering/throwing food - in-house detention- immodest dress - suspension 1 - 3 days- out of class without a pass - elimination from other - unauthorized radios, tapes and activities record players, paging devices - SRT referrals (beepers), and other disruptive - financial responsibility items - expulsion- skateboards & roller skates on - counselor referral campus- obscene/vulgar gestures- being in unauthorized areas

- cutting in lines- gambling- vandalism- petty theft- unauthorized sale of merchandise- unacceptable conduct as determined by staff members- failure to report to the office with a referral- hitting/kicking lockers- threats- spitting- inappropriate affectionate gestures such as kissing, or hugging - the following are not allowed: water balloons, water guns or water squirters, rubber bands, nor any item which may cause a disturbance.- not wearing a safety helmet while riding a bicycle.

INFORMATION ABOUT CONSEQUENCES

The assistant principal will use his or her discretion in determining the consequence for action, based on degree of severity and/or previous patterns of behavior of the student.

Any student who accumulates two referrals in the same day or three referrals in 1 week will be suspended from school. Failure to report to the office with a referral or comply with directions to attend detention will result in suspension.

STUDENTS WHO HAVE 7 REFERRALS WILL MEET WITH THE PRINCIPAL DESIGNEE AND THEIR PARENTS TO DISCUSS THEIR BEHAVIOR. STUDENTS WITH 12 REFERRALS, THE STUDENT'S PARENTS, AND THE STUDENT'S ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL WILL MEET WITH THE SUPERINTENDENT'S DESIGNEE AT THE DISTRICT OFFICE TO DISCUSS MEANS TO REMEDIATE THE STUDENT'S INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR.

Students who have been suspended 12 or more days during the school year will be recommended to the Superintendent for expulsion. Students with 18 or more referrals will be recommended to the Superintendent for expulsion.

"TYPE C" BEHAVIORS CONSEQUENCES FOR "TYPE C" BEHAVIORS (Related to the nature of the offense)

- REPEATED VIOLATION OF TYPE B - campus cleanup- vandalism/destroying property - 1-3 days Alternative Center- profanity or abusive language - 1-5 days suspension- failure to complete detention - parent or guardian is financially - leaving campus without responsible for theft or vandalism authorized pass - expulsion procedures may be - instigating/encouraging a fight initiated

- unnecessary physical contact, - police report i.e., horseplay, slugging, punching, shoving, kicking, hitting or spanking for birthdays- throwing or shooting objects to cause harm, a nuisance, or damage- extortion/robbery/grand theft- battery, physical assault, fighting- possession, sale, furnishing of or under the influence of drugs or alcohol- fraudulent sale or possession of substitute drugs- smoking and/or possession of tobacco/drug paraphernalia- tampering with fire alarms- possession or use of firecrackers, fireworks, or any flammable material- lewd and lascivious acts- repeated cheating or plagiarism- ethnic slurs, harassment of person directed toward ethnicity, cultural, heritage, physical and mental attributes, or religious beliefs or practices (NHUSD Board Policies #5137).- Acts of racial prejudice- Unauthorized possession of markers and/or spray paint

"TYPE D" BEHAVIOR CONSEQUENCES FOR "TYPE D" BEHAVIORS (All consequences apply)

- extortion/robbery - 5 day off-campus- possession or use of weapons, suspension including, but not limited to - expulsion procedures explosives, firearms, knives initiated of any size, and imitation firearms - police report- battery, physical assault, - referral to School serious injury Resource Team- possession of drugs/alcohol for sale and sale of drugs or alcohol or substitute substance- threats/verbal and physical assault of district personnel- unauthorized visits to any other campus

STUDENTS ARE PROHIBITED FROM BEING ON ANY CAMPUS, OTHER THAN THE ONE TO WHICH THEY ARE ASSIGNED, DURING SCHOOL HOURS AND/OR DURING THE TIME CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES ARE TAKING PLACE AFTER SCHOOL HOURS. The only exception shall be when the principal of the campus being visited, or his/her designee, has authorized the student's presence on the campus.

EXPULSION

Mandatory Recommendation for Expulsion (EC 48915-c) - The principal must suspend and recommend expulsion for (1) possessing, selling or otherwise furnishing a firearm, (2) brandishing a knife at another person, and (3) unlawfully selling a controlled substance, (4) sexual assault or sexual battery.

An expulsion recommendation is required (EC 48915) (a) and (b) for (1) causing serious physical injury, (2) possession of any knife, explosive or other dangerous object, (3) unlawful possession of any controlled substance listed in Chapter 2 of the Health and Safety Code, and (4) robbery or extortion. See Parent Handbook

ALTERNATIVE CENTER

Students who have engaged in unacceptable behavior may be placed in the Alternative Center when the school administration considers it an appropriate alternative to suspension. Students displaying unacceptable behavior in the Alternative Center may be suspended. Students cannot participate in after school activities the day served in Alternative Center.

SAME DAY RESTRICTION

No student will be permitted to participate in an after-school activity (including sports) the same day he or she was in the Alternative Center (in-house); on home suspension; has an unexcused absence for one or more periods; is absent from school for the entire day; is scheduled to serve or has served after-school detention, or has violated conditions of a behavior/attendance contract.

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITY RESTRICTION POLICY(Also referred to as Exclusion)

In order to promote a greater level of responsible student behavior, the following specific standards and procedures have been developed.

Extra-curricular activities are defined as follows: 6th and 7th grade field day; the carnival, dances; classroom parties (6th); 8th grade picnic; promotion ceremony and dance; all clubs, Colorguard, after school sports, and noon-hour athletics; student body or class offices; student council; 6th grade end-of-year parties; and end-of-year movies and BBQ’s for all grades. Students will be restricted for behavioral, financial, academic, or attendance reasons as listed below.

Students on suspended expulsion are excluded from all extra-curricular activities. (i.e. dance, all 8th grade end of the year activities).

Academic Exclusion - A student receiving two or more F's on a quarter report card is restricted until the next report card unless the student raises the F's to C's by the following deficiency interim report.

One F on any report card - or failure to maintain a 2.0 GPA will result in restriction from athletic activities. (Athletic league participation requirement is a grade point average of 2.0 or better. One quarter probation may be granted if student's GPA is below 2.0.)

Any student who has more than one F on Friday, May 30, 2008, will not be able to participate in any end of the year activities.

Behavioral Exclusion - Upon receiving a second suspension during one year, the student will be restricted for an 8-week period beginning with the date of the second suspension. Upon receiving a third suspension the student will be restricted from all extra-curricular activities for the remainder of the school year. Any 8th grader will not be able to write a letter of appeal who has been suspended 3 or more times.

Three (3) Alternative Center assignments will result in an eight week restriction from activities starting on the day the third Alternative Center is assigned.

Use or possession of drugs or weapons on campus or committing any other expellable offense will result in restriction for 8 weeks. Debts maybe paid by cash or check. There is a $25 return check fee.

Financial Exclusion - Any student owing a debt to the school, i.e., lost text or library book, uniforms, Fund-raisers, will be restricted until the debt is paid.

Attendance - Any student with 6 tardies per quarter will be restricted from activities for 4 weeks. Three or more tardies during the month will result in an additional month of restriction. Excessive tardies may result in a parent, student, AP conference, and additional consequences as appropriate. A student with two or more cuts will be on restriction for 4 weeks from the date of the second cut.

EXCLUSION APPEAL PROCEDURE

This exclusion appeal process is open to any student who has been restricted from participation in activities but feel the decision was not fair or has had a change in behavior and attitude or has additional information to be reviewed. However, the appeal procedure is not open to students restricted by two or more of the reasons for restriction. Students who have been restricted will be personally notified in sufficient time for them to appeal if they desire.

1. A student who has been restricted for academic or financial reasons will be notified by the counselor, and the assistant principal will notify students on restriction for behavioral or attendance reasons.

2. If a student wishes to appeal, he/she must submit a letter of request to the counselor stating specific reasons for the appeal.

3. An appeal board will meet and decide on the appeal within 5 working days from the request.

4. To prevent a deluge of appeals just before promotion, 8th grade students will not be allowed to turn in appeals later than May 16th. Under certain conditions, the administration can waive the date of limitations.

5. The Appeal Board will be composed of these members:

a. One of the student's teachers (Optional) b. The counselor to act as an advisor c. The school principal d. Parent volunteer (optional)

e. Student's assistant principal to present to the Appeal Board the reason(s) for restriction.f. Parents may be present

6. The Appeal Board decision is final -- a simple majority rule.

7. A student who violates the confidence of the Appeal Board by continued further misbehavior after winning an appeal is subject to being placed back on restriction with no right to further appeal. Student will no longer be allowed to participate in any activities that were granted from appeal process.

If a student is on exclusion for financial reasons and one of the other “restrictions” mentioned, the debt must be paid by May 16th (the deadline for appeal letters) or else the student would be deemed ineligible to appeal at all.

If a student goes on exclusion after May 16th, they would be ineligible for appeal and would lose all of their end of the year activities, including promotion.

If a student is on exclusion for the dance or the picnic and shows up at either of these activities, they could be subject to suspension at the beginning of the next school term.

If a student is on exclusion for promotion and shows up at the promotion and disrupts promotion activities they could be subject to suspension at the beginning of the next school term.

NEW HAVEN ATHLETIC LEAGUE2007 – 2008

Alvarado Middle School offers a balanced athletic program for 7th and 8th grade students. Sixth grade students are welcome to try out for the 7th grade teams. An activity bus is provided after school for those participating on teams. Following is a schedule of seasons by quarter.

1st Quarter - Boys’ Soccer 3rd Quarter - Coed Wrestling Girls’ Volleyball Girls’ Basketball

2nd Quarter - Boys’ Basketball 4th Quarter - Coed Track & Field Girls’ Soccer Boys’ Volleyball

ELIGIBILITY

Students qualify to play on the New Haven Athletic League teams by earning a 2.00 grade point average and no grade of “F” during the quarter directly preceding the season of play. Any student suspended two times is ineligible to participate for eight weeks. The League is governed by a Board of Managers which enforces the constitution and bylaws.