ACCELERATION – CREDIT BY EXAMINATION
CELL PHONES AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES
PARENT INVOLVEMENT, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND RIGHTS
SCHOOL HEALTH ADVISORY COUNCIL
Examinations for Acceleration and Credit by Examinations
will be offered to students in the
Students in grades 1-5 must score at least 90% on each test
which includes an exam in math, science, language arts, and social studies to
be considered eligible for grade level acceleration. Students in grades 6-8 must score at least
90% on each exam to receive course credit.
The exam scores will be entered on the student’s transcript and
considered when figuring grade point average for honor graduates. The scores of 90% or greater, school district
recommendation, and parental consent are all required for acceleration. The tests have been prepared by The
University of Texas at
If your child has an allergy to certain foods, insects, etc.
please inform the school on the registration card provided at the beginning of
the school year or as soon as you become aware of this problem. The cafeteria will need a record of food
allergies on a physician’s letterhead to be in compliance with federal regulations.
The district is in compliance with the law regarding
asbestos in the school. All buildings
have been inspected. The Asbestos
Management Plan for the school is on file in the office and may be discussed by
appointment with the principal.
There is a close relationship between a child’s success in
school and his/her attendance. Please
help your child attend school whenever possible.
In order to receive credit in a class, students must be in
attendance for at least 73 days the first semester and 89 days the second
semester. Students who are in attendance
for fewer days in a semester shall not be given credit for the class unless the
attendance committee finds that the absence(s) are the result of extenuating circumstances.
When returning to school after an absence, a student must
bring a note signed by the parent that describes the reason for the absence;
notes signed by the student, even with the parent’s permission, will be
considered forgery and the student will be disciplined.
If work is made up or completed as required by the
attendance committee, the District will accept the following as extenuating
circumstances for the purpose of granting credit for a class:
1. Board-approved extracurricular activity
or public performance, subject to established limitations,
2. Required screening, diagnosis, and
treatment of Medicaid-eligible students,
3. Documented health care appointment, if
the student begins classes or returns to school on the same day as the
appointment,
4. Juvenile court proceeding documented by
the probation officer,
5. Absence required by state or local
welfare authorities, and
6. Temporary absence resulting from any cause
acceptable to the principal, including personal illness, and/or illness or
death in the immediate family.
If the attendance committee finds that there are no
extenuating circumstances for the absence or if conditions established by the
committee for earning or regaining credit are not met, the committee shall deny
credit for the class. Students whose
petitions for credit are denied may appeal the attendance committee’s decision
to the Board of Trustees.
Students who have been absent for any reason are encouraged
to make up the work they missed within the time given by the teacher. Failure to make up work may result in
academic penalties.
Students who visit a doctor, dentist, or other medical
provider will not be counted absent if they attend part of the school day and
provide the office with documentation of the medical visit.
Students on an approved 4-H project or other organization
will not be counted absent if a letter from the 4-H office or organization
stating the dates and projects is received prior to the event. Participants are to notify all teachers prior
to being absent and request assignments before the event. Work is due upon returning to school unless
the teacher has granted an extension.
Organizations must be on the approved list.
Students who are absent from school or from any class
without permission will be considered truant and will be subject to
disciplinary action.
A student who must leave school during the day must be
signed out by an adult in the office.
Students who become ill during the school day should, with the teacher’s
permission, report to the medical assistant.
The medical assistant will assist with phone calls, medication, and/or
parent notification.
Perfect attendance will be recognized at the end of the
school year.
Attendance will be taken at
Please call the school (275-3639 or 277-5817) whenever your
child is absent more than two consecutive days.
We will try to contact you any time your child is absent from school for
more than three days, and we have not heard from you.
An awards assembly will be held at the end of the year and
outstanding achievements will be recognized.
Junior High valedictorian, salutatorian, and honor graduate students
eligibility requires participation in the standard curriculum and programs.
BACTERIAL
MENINGITIS
What is meningitis?
Meningitis is an inflammation of the covering of the brain
and spinal cord---also called the mininges.
It can be caused by viruses, parasites, fungi, and bacteria. Viral (aseptic) meningitis is common; most
people recover fully. Medical management
of viral meningitis consists of supportive treatment and there is usually no
indication for the use of antibiotics.
Parasitic and fungal meningitis are very rare. Bacterial meningitis is very serious and may
involve complicated medical, surgical, pharmaceutical, and life support
management.
There are two common types of bacteria that cause
meningitis:
What are the symptoms?
Someone with meningitis will become very ill. The illness may develop over one or two days,
but it can also rapidly progress in a matter of hours. Not everyone with meningitis will have the
same symptoms.
Children (over 1 year old) and adults with meningitis may
have:
*In both children and adults, there may be a rash of tiny,
red-purple spots and bruises caused by bleeding under the skin. These can occur anywhere on the body. They are a sign of blood poisoning
(septicemia), which sometimes happens with meningitis, particularly the
meningococcal strain.
How serious is bacterial meningitis?
If it is diagnosed early and treated promptly, the majority
of people make a complete recovery. In
some cases it can be fatal or a person may be left with a permanent disability,
such as deafness, blindness, amputations or brain damage (resulting in mental
retardation or paralysis) even with prompt treatment.
How is bacterial meningitis spread?
Fortunately, none of the bacteria that cause meningitis are
as contagious as diseases like the common cold or the flu, and they are not
spread by casual contact or by simply breathing the air where a person with
meningitis has been. The germs live
naturally in the back of our noses and throats, but they do not live for long
outside the body. They are spread when
people exchange saliva (such as by kissing; sharing drinking containers,
utensils, cigarettes).
The germ does not
cause meningitis in most people.
Instead, most people become carriers
of the germ for days, weeks or even months.
Being a carrier helps to stimulate your body’s natural defense
system. The bacteria rarely overcomes
the body’s immune system and causes meningitis or another serious illness.
What is the risk of getting bacterial meningitis?
The risk of getting bacterial meningitis in all age groups
is about 2.4 cases per 100,000 population per year. However, the highest risk group for the most
serious form of the disease, meningococcal meningitis, is highest among
children 2 to 18 years old.
How is bacterial meningitis diagnosed?
The diagnosis is usually based on a combination of clinical
symptoms and laboratory results from spinal fluid and blood. Spinal fluid is obtained by a lumbar puncture
(spinal tap).
How can bacterial meningitis be prevented?
Do not share food, drinks, utensils, toothbrushes, or
cigarettes. Limit the number of persons
you kiss.
Vaccines against pneumococcal disease are recommended both
for young children and adults over 64. A
vaccine against four meningococcal serogroups (A, C, Y, W-135) is
available. These four groups cause the
majority of meningococcal cases in the
What you should do if you think you or a friend might have
bacterial meningitis?
Seek prompt medical attention.
Your school medical assistant, family doctor, and the staff
at your local and regional health department office are excellent sources for
information on all communicable diseases.
You may also call your local health department or Regional Texas
Department of Health Office to ask about meningococcal vaccine. Additional information may also be found at
the web sites for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov and the Texas Department of Health: www.tdh.state.tx.us.
You should receive a recorded call if all systems are
working properly. Please be sure the
office has your current home phone number.
It is necessary for each student to have proof of birth in
his/her permanent records. We are
checking all files to be sure such records are in each folder. You will be contacted if proof of birth and
place of birth records are not in your child’s folder.
BUILDING SCHEDULE
Buildings will be open at
At all times students on the school buses are under direct
supervision of school authorities and are expected to exercise good
behavior. Certain responsibilities go
with the privilege of free bus transportation.
Cooperation of every person who rides the bus is necessary for the
safety and comfort of all.
The Board of Trustees, recognizing the responsibility of
promoting the safety of students to and from school shall delegate the
superintendent to enforce the following rules and any other rules, which are
deemed, fit and cause them to be published as administrative regulations.
1. The driver is in full charge of the bus and students. Students must obey the driver promptly and cheerfully.
2. Students must be on time. The bus cannot wait for those who are late.
3. Students should not stand in the roadway while waiting on the bus. They should wait a sufficient distance from the pavement to allow room for the bus to pull off the pavement onto the shoulder.
4. Unnecessary conversation with the driver is prohibited.
5. Outside of ordinary conversation, classroom conduct is to be observed.
6. There will be no use of tobacco on the bus.
7. Students will not throw waste paper and other trash on the floor.
8. Students should not, at any time, extend arms or head out of the bus window.
9. Students should not try to enter or leave the bus unless it has come to a full stop.
10. When leaving the bus, the student shall follow the instructions of the driver.
11. Any damage to the bus should be reported at once to the driver.
12. Students going to and from the bus stop should walk on the left side of the highway, on the shoulder, facing the oncoming traffic.
13.
Students should remain seated at all times when the bus is in motion.
14. All books and parcels should be placed where
they will not slide or fall.
15. Students should be careful when entering and
leaving the bus.
16. In case of an
accident, the student must follow the bus driver’s instructions and cooperate
with the bus driver.
17. The emergency door should not be used except for emergencies.
18. Students should not run after moving
buses.
19. A student creating problems for bus drivers or supervisors of loading will be reported to the school administrator, who can bar him/her temporarily, or permanently, from riding the bus.
20. Parents of students should share with school officials’ responsibility for student conduct at bus stops until such time as the child boards the bus in the morning and after the child leaves the bus at the end of the school day.
21. Students who damage property or misbehave in such a manner that the safety and welfare of others are jeopardized may be subject to being suspended or expelled from school.
22. Students are expected to wear seat
belts! This is a student responsibility.
Bus schedules will be handled through the office. If the bus does not arrive at the expected
time, please feel free to call the school at 275-3639 or 277-5817, to find out
if there is a problem.
BULLYING
Bulling occurs when a student or group of students directs
written or verbal expressions or physical conduct against another student and
the behavior results in harm to the student or the student’s property, places a
student in fear of harm to himself or his property, or is so severe,
persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening or
abusive educational environment.
Students may bring cell phones and other electronic devices
to school. They may be used prior to the
first bell each morning. Teachers will
take up the electronic devices at the beginning of the school day. Teachers will give the electronic devices
back to students at the end of the day.
Violations of this procedure may result in retention of the devices
until a parent picks up the devices.
The following chain of command will be followed in
1. Go directly to the teacher or employee
with whom you have a problem.
2. If satisfaction is not achieved after an honest attempt to solve the problem, go to Miss Whitson with the problem, and give her the opportunity to provide some possible solutions.
3. If satisfaction is not achieved at this point, you may request a place on the agenda at the next regularly scheduled board meeting by contacting the Board President or Miss Whitson. The board meets on the second Tuesday of each month or at another announced time. Your request needs to be filed a week prior to the meeting. It is necessary that we all follow this order of command so that the most effective and efficient educational opportunities can be provided for all students and parents in the district.
Parties will be held three times during the year.
Christmas
Valentine’s
Day
Easter
Please do not send invitations to birthday parties unless
everyone in the class is invited.
Preschool children may attend school parties only if they are with their
parent or caregiver.
COMPUTER RESOURCES
District resources have been invested in computer technology
to broaden instruction and to prepare students for an increasingly computerized
society. Use of these resources is
restricted to students working under a teacher’s supervision and for approved
purposes only. Students and parents will
be asked to sign a user agreement regarding appropriate use of these resources;
violations of this agreement may prompt termination of privileges and other
disciplinary action.
No qualified individual with a disability shall, because the
District’s facilities are inaccessible to or unusable by individuals with
disabilities, be excluded from participation in, or be denied the benefits of
the services, programs, activities of the District or be subject to discrimination.
Discipline will be handled by the classroom
teacher. However, when necessary, the
child will be sent to the Response to Intervention Classroom (RTI) or office as
outlined in the discipline plan reviewed during registration. All corporal punishment will be administered
in the presence of Mrs. Shine or the principal or her designee. Please read and discuss with your child(ren)
the Student Code of Conduct at the end of this handbook. In cases involving suspension from school,
the parents or guardians will be notified prior to our releasing the student.
In order to maintain an orderly environment conducive to the
attainment of the educational mission and purpose of the District, all students
shall be required to conform to a reasonable dress and grooming code. These rules apply to the regular school day
and school sponsored events such as dances, graduation, and awards, etc.
The provisions of the dress and grooming code shall be
enforced equally with regard to all students to whom the provisions apply.
The school district encourages students, with the
supervision of their parents, to maintain high standards of dress, grooming,
and personal appearance provided that the student dress and grooming meets the
following standards:
1. Shall not lead school officials reasonably to believe that such dress or grooming will disrupt, interfere with, disturb, or detract from instruction and/or school activities.
2. Shall not create a health or other hazard to student’s safety or to the safety of others.
3. Student’s hair shall be clean, neat, well-groomed in appearance, hair should be reasonable length, and not come down over the eyes and ears in a manner, which would interfere with sight or hearing.
4. Student’s hairstyles will not be permitted which represents extreme fads or represents extremes that may disrupt, interfere with, disturb, or detract from instruction and/or school activities.
5. School attire should never be suggestive or indecent, nor create a disruptive or health hazard. The following guidelines shall apply to all students.
a. Hats and caps shall not be worn in any building.
b. Half shirts for boys and girls shall be prohibited. (When standing with both arms out parallel, if any skin is showing it will be considered a half shirt.)
c. Shirts shall be buttoned at all times.
d. Students in K-8 may wear walking shorts. No short shorts or short skirts, please.
e. No mesh shirts, tank tops, halter tops, strapless tops, or shirts with suggestive messages or designs are permitted.
f. Boys are not permitted to wear earrings.
DRUG DOGS
The district will use trained dogs to alert school officials to the presence of prohibited or illegal items, including drugs and alcohol. At any time, trained dogs may be used around lockers and the areas around vehicles parked on school property. Searches of classrooms, common areas, or student belongings may also be conducted by trained dogs when student are not present. An item in a classroom, a locker, or a vehicle to which a trained dog alerts may be searched by school officials.
EARLY DISMISSAL
Early dismissal must be coordinated with Cuero I.S.D. because of the busing situation. Please consult the school calendar for scheduled days. Other early dismissals and possible changes will be announced as soon as possible to the parents.
ELIGIBILITY
Students of M.I.S.D. shall be permitted to participate in extracurricular activities, subject to the following restrictions.
1. A student who receives, at the end of any grade evaluation period, an average below 70 in any academic class, or a student with disabilities who fails to meet the standards in the Individual Education Plan (IEP) may not participate in extracurricular activities for at least three weeks. A student may practice or rehearse while suspended. The student regains eligibility when the principal and teachers determine that he or she has: (1) earned a passing grade (70 or above) in all academic classes; and (2) completed three weeks of suspension.
2. A student is allowed up to ten absences from a class during the school year for extracurricular activities or public performances. All UIL activities and activities approved by the District are subject to these restrictions. Post-district and state competition extends these days.
3. Any disciplinary behavior-related restrictions on participation are set out in the Student Code of Conduct.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENT
If a student has a medical emergency at school or a school-related activity when the parent cannot be reached, the school will need written consent to obtain emergency medical treatment and information about allergies to medications, etc. Therefore, parents are asked each year to complete an emergency care consent form. Parents should keep emergency care information up-to-date (name of doctor, emergency phone numbers, and allergies, etc.). Please contact the school office to update any information.
The District is not responsible for medical expenses associated with a student’s injury.District employees will not be liable for transporting students in need of emergency medical treatment.
FAILING GRADE LETTERS
When your child makes below a 70 on his/her report card, the teacher will contact you for a conference. We encourage you to call and talk with the teacher or come for the conference.
FIELD TRIPS
Educational field trips will be coordinated within the classroom learning program. School buses will be used for field trips. Plans for the trip will be made by the teacher(s) and principal, and school personnel will supervise such trips. Written permission by a parent/guardian will be required prior to departure.
FIRE AND DISASTER DRILLS
From time to time, students, teachers, and other District employees will participate in drills of emergency procedures. When the alarm is sounded, students should follow the direction of teachers or others in charge quickly, quietly, and in an orderly manner.
ANNOUNCEMENT
Please Exit: Evacuation (file out of building in a quiet, orderly manner)
Please Return: Return (file back to room)
Please Take Cover: (remain in classroom with door closed)
FREEDOM FROM DISCRIMINATION
The District believes that all students learn best in an environment free from harassment and that their welfare is best served when they can work free from discrimination. Students are expected to treat other students and District employees with courtesy and respect: to avoid any behaviors known to be offensive; and to stop those behaviors when asked or told to stop. District employees are expected to treat students with courtesy and respect.
The Board has established policies and procedures to prohibit and promptly respond to inappropriate and offensive behaviors that are based on a person’s race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, age, or disability. Prohibited harassment, in general terms, is conduct so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it affects the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity; or substantially interferes with the student’s academic performance. A copy of the District’s policy is available online.
Examples of prohibited discrimination may include, but are not limited to, derogatory language directed at a person’s religious beliefs or practices, accent, skin color, or need for accommodation; bullying, threatening or intimidating conduct; name-calling or slurs, taunting, teasing (even when presented as “jokes”), or rumors; aggression or assault; graffiti or printed material promoted racial, ethnic, or other negative stereotypes; or aggressive conduct such as theft or damage to property. Examples of prohibited sexual harassment may include touching private body parts or coercing physical contact that is sexual in nature; sexual advances; jokes or conversations of a sexual nature; and other sexually motivated conduct, communications, or contact.
Sexual harassment of a student by an employee or volunteer does not include necessary or permissible physical contact not reasonably construed as sexual in nature. However, all romantic and inappropriate social relationships, as well as all sexual relationships, between students and District employees are prohibited, even if consensual.
Any student (or the student’s parent) who believes that he or she has experienced prohibited harassment should immediately report the problem to a teacher, counselor, principal, or other District employee.
To the extent possible, the District will respect the privacy of the student; however, limited disclosures may be necessary to conduct a thorough investigation and to comply with law. Allegations will be promptly investigated. The District will notify the parents of any student alleged to have experienced prohibited harassment by an adult associated with the District, or by another student, when the allegations, if proven, would constitute “sexual harassment” or “other prohibited harassment” as defined by District policy.
If the District’s investigation indicates that prohibited harassment occurred, appropriate disciplinary or corrective action will be taken to address the harassment. The District may take disciplinary action even if the conduct that is the subject of the complaint did not rise to the level of harassment prohibited by law or policy.
Retaliation against a person who makes a good faith report of prohibited harassment is prohibited. However, a person who makes a false claim or offers false statements or refuses to cooperate with a District investigation may be subject to appropriate discipline.
A student or parent who is dissatisfied with the outcome of the investigation may appeal in accordance with policy FNG.
In its efforts to promote nondiscrimination, the District makes the following statements:
Meyersville School does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sex, or disability in providing education services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended: Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.
The following District staff members have been designated to coordinate compliance with these requirements:
· Title IX Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of sex: Laura Whitson at (361) 275-3639
· Section 504 Coordinator, for concerns regarding discrimination on the basis of disability: Laura Whitson at (361) 275-3639
Other designated staff you may need to contact include:
· Liaison for Homeless Children and Youths, who coordinates services for homeless students: Laura Whitson at (361) 275-3639
· Parent Involvement Coordinator, who works with parents of students participating in Title I programs: Laura Whitson at (361) 275-3639
· Parents of students with learning difficulties or who may need special education services may request an evaluation for special education at any time. For more information contact Laura Whitson at (361) 275-3639.
GRADING MARKS
Grading marks vary from grade level to grade level. Please communicate with the teacher(s) and refer to the scale on the report card.
GUM CHEWING
Gum is to be a pleasure saved for home unless an exception is made by the teacher. This helps protect our floors, desks, materials, and books. No gum keeps them looking new for a longer time.
HOMEROOM PARENTS
We welcome and encourage your support and participation in any and all activities in which your child is involved. Therefore, we hope you will feel free to serve as a homeroom parent for all your children.
HONOR ROLLS
Students will be recognized for earning marks of all As by being on the A Honor Roll, and students earning marks of As and Bs will be on the AB Honor Roll. Grades of 90 and above will be considered As and grades 80 thru 89 will be considered Bs.
ILLNESS
A child should not be sent to school if he/she is ill. A sick child needs rest and care in order to recover as quickly as possible. It is very important not to expose other children to any more illnesses that we can avoid. If you child becomes ill at school, we will try to notify you. Please list your home and work phone numbers on the documentation requested and also list any other numbers that might help us locate you in case of emergency.
Parents of students with a communicable or contagious disease are asked to telephone the school office. Students with certain diseases are not allowed to come to school when the disease is contagious. All students need to be fever free for 24 hours before returning to school.
IMMUNIZATIONS
A student must be fully immunized against certain diseases or must present a certificate or statement that, for the medical or religious reasons, the student will not be immunized. The immunizations required are: diphtheria, rubeola (measles), rubella, mumps, tetanus, Haemophilus influenzae type B, and poliomyelitis. The school nurse consultant can provide information on age-appropriate dose or on an acceptable physician-validated history of illness required by the Texas Department of Health. Proof of immunization may be personal records from a licensed physician or public health clinic with a signature or rubber-stamp validation.
If a student’s religious beliefs conflict with the requirement that the student be immunized, the student must present a statement signed by the student (or by the parent, if the student is a minor) stating that immunization conflicts with the beliefs and practices of a recognized church or religious denomination of which the student is an adherent or member. This statement must be renewed yearly.
If a student
should not be immunized for medical reasons, the student or parent must present
a certificate signed by a
You will have two (2) weeks from date of notifications to come into compliance with immunization requirements or the school principal may exclude student from school until this requirement is met.
KINDERGARTEN
During pre-registration for next year’s kindergarten class the parents should bring the child’s birth certificate, immunization records, and social security card.
KNIVES
Knives or any other object that could be used as a weapon are not to be brought on the bus or on campus.
LEAVING SCHOOL DURING THE DAY
If it is necessary for a student to leave campus during the school day, please check the student out in the office. If the student returns to campus the same day after checking out in the office, please notify us of his/her return. This imposition is necessary for the safety and well being of all involved.
LIBRARY
If a book is lost, library privileges will be suspended until the book is paid for or returned. One month will be the amount of time given to return a book or pay for it. If a student has not done one of these within one month, a letter will be sent to parents.
LICE
Classes may be checked for head lice, if such a need arises. If a parent finds lice in the child’s hair, please inform the school.
If nits or head lice are found in a child’s hair the parent will be notified. The child will be readmitted when evidence is provided that a lice control shampoo was obtained and used.
LOST ITEMS
Lost items continue to be a problem. So many items are never claimed. Parents, please label in some way the coats and sweaters of your children. This should help decrease the number of lost items.
Lost items will be placed in a designated box in the cafeteria. If your child comes home without some items, please call us immediately so maybe we can track down the lost items.
LUNCH SCHEDULE
The District participates in the National School Lunch Program and offers free and reduced price meals based on a student’s financial need. Information on this program can be obtained from the office.
The daily lunch schedule follows.
Grade K 10:50 Grade
5 11:30
Grade 1 10:55 Grade
6 12:00
Grade 2 11:00 Grade
7 12:00
Grade 3 11:25 Grade 8 11:55
Grade 4 11:25
Breakfast is
served every morning from approximately
275-3639 or 277-5817 by 9:00 a.m. if you wish to eat lunch with us.
MEDICINE AT SCHOOL
A student who must take prescription medicine during the school day must bring a written request from his or her parent and the medicine, in its original, properly labeled container.Prescription and over the counter medications are to be brought to Ms. Tarius in the original container with parental directions for administering. The school will no longer furnish over the counter medications.
A student with asthma who has written authorization from his or her parent and physician or other licensed health-care provider may be permitted to possess and use prescribed asthma medication at school or school-related events. The student and parents should see the medical assistant if the student has been prescribed asthma medication for use during the school day.
In accordance with a student’s individual health plan for management of diabetes, a student with diabetes will be permitted to possess and use monitoring and treatment supplies and equipment while at school or at a school-related activity. See the medical assistant for information.
MILK
Milk may be purchased for students who bring a lunch for $.50.
MONEY AND TOYS
Toys are not to be brought to school, and this includes for “Show and Tell”. Also we strongly recommend that extra money not needed for school be left at home. If something happens to either of these items, it causes many troubled, often tearful moments.
NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
The Meyersville Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability in providing educational services, activities, and programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, as amended; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
OPTIONAL FLEXIBLE SCHOOL YEAR
During the 2011-2012 school year, students in Meyersville ISD can qualify to earn flex days and get out of school earlier than their classmates, if they meet all eligibility criteria for their grade level. This incentive program is made possible as part of the Texas Education Agency’s Optional Flexible Year Program which allows school districts to modify their instructional calendar to provide a flexible year program to meet the educational needs of its students. (TEC) 129.1029. Students who do not meet the flex day eligibility will attend the 180 days of instruction of the regular school calendar.
Students who do not meet the eligibility requirements will be given small group and/or one-on-one intensive instruction in the area of need and in meeting promotion criteria.
The criteria will be based on attendance, grades, and test scores unique to each grade level. The specifics will be distributed at registration.
PARENT INVOLVEMENT, RESPONSIBILITIES, AND
RIGHTS
Education succeeds best when there is a strong partnership between home and school, a partnership that thrives on communication. Parents are partners with teachers, administrators, and the Board and are encouraged to:
1. Encourage your child to put a high priority on education and commit to making the most of the educational opportunities the school provides.
2. Attend various meetings to learn more about District operations.
3. Review the information in the Student Handbook (including the attached Student Code of Conduct) with your child; and sign and return the acknowledgement form(s). Parents with questions are encouraged to contact the school principal.
4. Become familiar with all of your child’s school activities and with the academic programs offered in the District. Discuss with the principal any questions, such as concerns about placement, assignment, or early graduation, and the options available to your child. Monitor your child’s academic progress and contact teachers as needed.
5. Exercise your right to review teaching materials, textbooks, and other aids, and to examine tests that have been administered to your child.
6. Review your child’s student records when needed. You may review (1) attendance records, (2) test scores, (3) grades, (4) disciplinary records,
(5) counseling records, (6) psychological records, (7) applications for admission, (8) health and immunization information, (9) teacher and counselor evaluations, (10) reports of behavioral patterns, and (11) state assessment instruments administered to your child.
7. If an instructional activity in which your child is scheduled to participate conflicts with your religious or moral beliefs, you may temporarily remove your child from the classroom. The removal cannot be for the purpose of avoiding a test and may not extend for an entire semester. Further, your child must satisfy grade-level and graduation requirements as determined by the school and by TEA.
8. Become a school volunteer. For further information, contact the school office.
9. Participate in campus parent organizations. The activities are varied, ranging from Parents’ Club to the District and campus planning committees formulating District and campus plans to improve educational opportunities for all students. For further information, contact the school office.
PARENTS’ CLUB
All parents are extended a special invitation to become active participants in the Parents’ Club. The club sponsors projects that directly benefit students. This is one way you can assist your child, school, and community. Watch for notices about meetings.
PARKING
Parking at Meyersville I.S.D. is for employees and visitors of the school. No person without a valid driver’s license will be permitted to park on school property.
The District periodically inspects/applies pesticides inside and outside buildings. A consumer’s information sheet is available in the office.
P. E. PARTICIPATION
All students are expected to participate in P. E. unless a written excuse is provided. An excuse from a parent will be honored for up to five consecutive days. If the child is still ill and cannot participate the sixth day, an excuse from a physician is requested. Your cooperation is requested. It is not our intention to force a sick or injured child into physical activity; however, we do expect all healthy students to participate in P. E. the same as any other class.
Students in grades 3-8 may change clothes for P. E. Girls in grade K-2 need to wear shorts under their dresses for P. E. Students need to wear enclosed tennis type shoes for P. E.
Annually, the district will conduct a physical fitness assessment of students in grades 3-8. Parents will receive the results at the end of the school year.
The School Health Advisory Council meets twice a year. Please contact Cindy Slovacek for information.
PRAYER & PLEDGES
Each student has a right to individually, voluntarily, and silently pray or meditate in school in a manner that does not disrupt instructional or other activities of the school. The school will not require, encourage, or coerce a student to engage in or to refrain from such prayer or meditation during any school activity.
As a parent, you may request that
your child be excused from participation in the daily recitation of the Pledge
of Allegiance to the
PROMOTION
A student will be promoted only on the basis of academic achievement or demonstrated proficiency in the subject matter of the course or grade level. To earn credit in a course, a student must receive a grade of least 70 based on course-level or grade-level standards.
In addition, at certain grade levels a student---with limited exceptions---will be required to pass the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS).
· In order to be promoted to grade 6, students enrolled in grade 5 must have performed satisfactorily on the Mathematics and Reading sections of the grade 5 assessment test in English or Spanish.
·
In order to be promoted to grade 9, students
enrolled in grade 8 in the 2007-2008 school year and each year to follow must
perform satisfactorily on the Mathematics and
In addition, students in grades 5 and 8 must meet promotion standards established by the District in order to be promoted.
Parents of students in grades 3-8 who do not perform satisfactorily on their exams will be notified that their child will participate in special instructional programs designed to improve performance. Students in grades 5 and 8 will also have two additional opportunities to take the test in reading and math. If the student fails a second time, a grade placement committee, consisting of the principal or designee, the teacher, and the student’s parent, will determine the additional special instruction the student will receive. After the third failed attempt, the student will be retained; however, the parent can appeal this decision to the committee. In order for the student to be promoted, based on standards previously established by the District, the decision of the committee must be unanimous. Whether the student is retained or promoted, an educational plan for the student will be designed to enable the student to perform at grade level by the end of the next school year.
A Personal Graduation Plan (PGP) will be prepared for any student in a middle-school or beyond who did not perform satisfactorily on a state-mandated assessment test or is determined by the District as not likely to earn a high school diploma before the fifth school year following enrollment in grade 9. The PGP will be designed and implemented by a teacher, or other staff member designated by the principal. The plan will identify the student’s educational goals and include consideration of the parent’s educational expectations for the student.
Certain students---some with disabilities and some with limited English proficiency---may be eligible for exemptions, accommodations, or deferred testing. For more information, see the principal, counselor, or special education director.
REPORT CARDS
Report cards can be expected to arrive with your child on the following dates:
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Thursday, January 05, 2012
Thursday, March 22. 2012
Friday, May 31, 2012
RESPECT FOR AUTHORITY
Each teacher and staff member should be treated with due consideration and respect. Students must realize that any faculty or staff member has the authority to correct them, not only during school hours, but also at any school-sponsored activity. Students must realize the special benefit substitute teachers give to our instructional program. Because they are a visitor on our campus, it is important that they be treated with the same respect due any teacher or administrator. Misconduct in classes supervised by a substitute will be considered a serious offense and will be dealt with in a stern matter. All visitors on our campus are to be treated with respect at all times.
RESPECT FOR SCHOOL PROPERTY
The attitude of personal pride and the inherent respect for the property of others is strongly reflected in the care given to school facilities and materials. Students shall be encouraged at all times to learn and practice the wise use of all school properties.
Any student found guilty of any form of vandalism or defacement of school property will be required to make restitution to the school district.
Parents or guardians of students who destroy or vandalize school property shall be held liable for all damages incurred as provided by the Texas Family Code.
RETENTIONS
We will be stressing more and more the need for a child to have mastered the basic skills for the grade he/she is in before passing to the next grade. In no way do we want this to appear a pressure tactic. We simply want it clearly understood that social promotion is no more, with the possible exception of special education and special circumstances. The student must be able to satisfactorily complete one grade level before moving on to the next grade.
RETURNED AS SENT
We will send your child home the same way he/she was sent to us unless you write a note and have your child give the note to the teacher and bus driver. We are very strict about enforcing this so please send your child with a note or call us during the day if plans are different for your child in the afternoon.
SAFETY/ACCIDENT PREVENTION
Student safety on campus and at school-related events is a high priority of the District. Although the District has implemented safety procedures, the cooperation of students is essential to ensure school safety. A student should:
1. Avoid conduct that is likely to put the student or other students at risk.
2. Follow the behavioral standards in this handbook and the Student Code of Conduct, as well as any additional rules for behavior and safety set by the principal, teachers, or bus drivers.
3. Remain alert to and promptly report safety hazards, such as intruders on campus.
4. Know emergency evacuation routes and signals.
5. Follow immediately the instructions of teachers, bus drivers, and other District employees who are overseeing the welfare of students.
SALES
SCHOOL DAY
The school day will be from
SCHOOL HEALTH ADVISORY COUNCIL (SHAC)
During the preceding school year, the district’s School Health Advisory Council held four meetings. Additional information regarding the district’s School Health Advisory Council is available from Mrs. Slovacek.
SCHOOL PICTURES
Picture day will be announced.
SCHOOL RULES
There is a District Discipline Management Plan in which the Student Code of Conduct is a part. A copy of this code is at the back of this handbook. We plan to reinforce the following rules:
1. Students will obey all school personnel.
2. Students will not fight or hurt others.
3. Students will not abuse property.
4. Students will walk directly to/from a destination in a quiet, orderly manner.
5. Students will not name-call, tease, or use inappropriate language.
6. In the restrooms, students will use restrooms, wash hands, and leave without playing or talking loudly.
6. Students will follow cafeteria and playground rules.
SCHOOL CAFETERIA RULES
1. Tickets for lunch and breakfast will be purchased upon arrival to school in the cafeteria.
2. Students will wait quietly in line.
3. Students will wash hands before lunch.
4. Students will talk quietly to those near them.
5. Students will not play at the table.
6. Students will wait for permission to empty their trays.
7. Students will not take food out of the cafeteria.
8. Students will use good table manners.
9. Students will follow established traffic patterns in the cafeteria.
10. Students will be responsible for cleaning up after themselves.
SCHOOL PLAYGROUND RULES
1. Students will follow all general school rules.
2. Students will not throw anything on playground except game balls or frisbees.
3. On climbing structures, students will move carefully with no pushing, pulling, or shoving.
4. Students will use the swings in the following manner:
a. One person per swing
b. Back and forth only, not sideways
c. No jumping out of moving swing
d. Stay away from swing area unless swinging
5. Students will slide in following manner:
a. No bouncing
b. One person at a time
c. Slide in a seated forward position
6. Students will not JUMP off the seesaw. Students will not bump the seesaws on the ground. Students will not slide down or walk across the seesaws.
7. Students will return equipment to storage area.
8. Students will play where they can see and be seen by the teacher/supervisor at all times.
SEARCHES
In the interest of promoting student safety and attempting to ensure that schools are safe and drug free, district officials may from time to time conduct searches. Such searches are conducted without a warrant and as permitted by law.
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
The District believes that every
student has the right to attend the
All students are expected to treat one another courteously, with respect for the other person’s feelings; to avoid any behaviors known to be offensive; and to stop these behaviors when asked or told to stop. All students are prohibited from engaging in offensive verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature directed toward another student.
Students and/or parents are encouraged to discuss their questions or concerns about the expectations in this area with the teacher, or principal, who serves as the District’s Title IX coordinator for students.
A complaint alleging sexual harassment by another student or sexual harassment or sexual abuse by a staff member may be presented by a student and/or parent in a conference with the principal or designee or with the Title IX coordinator. The first conference with the student ordinarily will be held by a person who in the same gender as the student. The conference will be scheduled and held as soon as possible within five days of the request. The principal or Title IX coordinator will coordinate an appropriate investigation, which ordinarily will be completed within 10 days. The student or parent will be informed if extenuating circumstances delay completion of the investigation.
The student will not be requested to present a complaint to a person who is the subject of the complaint.
If the resolution of the complaint is not satisfactory to the student or parent, the student or parent within 10 days may request a conference with the Superintendent. If the resolution by the Superintendent is not satisfactory, the student or parent may present the complaint to the Board as provided by policy.
STEROIDS
State law prohibits students from possessing, dispensing, delivering, or administering an anabolic steroid. Anabolic steroids are for medical use only, and only a physician can prescribe use.
Body building, muscle enhancement, or the increase of muscle bulk or strength through the use of an anabolic steroid and human growth hormone by a healthy student is not a valid medical use and is a criminal offense.
Students participating in UIL athletic competition may be subject to random steroid testing. More information on the UIL testing program may be found on the UIL Web site at http://uil.utexas.edu/athletics/health/steroid_information.html.
STUDENT INFORMATION RELEASED
At grade levels K-8 there is very little opportunity to release any type of information concerning students. There will be honor rolls in which student’s names will be released. There will be an annual in which student names and pictures will be released. There will be U.I.L. activities for which a list of events and participants will be released.
Eighth grade honor graduate names and pictures will be released. Other releases may be made if a student earns special recognition. If you wish to have your child’s name excluded from any release, please write this on the signature sheet found for this handbook when you return the sheet to school. This is to be completed within ten school days of your child’s first day of instruction each school year.
STUDY HABITS
The teaching staff is going to make a great effort to help students develop self-responsibility. One way this will be done is in the classroom assignments. When assignments are given, it will be the child’s responsibility to see that the work is completed and turned in on time. The older the child is the more that will be expected of him/her. If work is turned in that is not readable the child will be asked to redo the work. Work will not be accepted after the deadline without penalty.
SUPPLIES
Each student will be expected to have those supplies necessary for the student to function in the learning environment. Copies of needed supplies are available in the office.
TARDIES
Tardies are strongly discouraged and when habitual tardies occur, the parents will be contacted by the homeroom teacher.
TEACHER/PARENT CONFERENCES
Parents should call the office and leave a message for the student’s teacher(s) so arrangements can be made for the appointment. Each teacher has a designated conference period during the school day. This is an excellent time to contact your child’s teacher. If a parent cannot attend a conference during the teacher’s conference period, other arrangements will be made.
CONFERENCE PERIODS
02:12- 02:57 Mrs. Nall 01:24-02:09 Mrs. Carson
09:39-10:24 Mrs. Olsovsky 02:12-02:57 Mrs. Weischwill
12:36-01:21 Mrs. Metting 11:15-12:00 Mrs. Slovacek
12:36-01:21 Mrs. Cantu 10:27-11:12 Mrs. Wolf
08:03-08:48 Mrs. Shine
The conference periods are subject to change. Please note any change information you may receive.
TELEPHONE CALLS
Parents may call school and leave a message for a student. It will be a standard procedure that a student will not be called to the phone unless an emergency situation arises. Student use of the telephone will be with permission of school personnel for important reasons. Please make plans and arrangements so that these calls may be held to a minimum.
TEXTBOOKS
The State of
Each textbook must be covered to prevent damage. Students will be required to pay for damaged or lost textbooks before other books will be issued. Student records will not be released until all textbook charges are cleared.
TOBACCO, ALCOHOL, AND DRUGS
Tobacco, alcohol, and drugs in any form are prohibited on the school campus, school bus, or school sponsored activities. The use of such is wrong and harmful.
TUTORIALS
Most tutorials will be handled during the school day. Summer tutorials will be required as outlined for grade promotion based on STAAR scores. Tutorials will be scheduled as any other class.
VISITORS TO SCHOOL
Parents are invited to school to observe or confer with the teachers or Miss Whitson about their child’s progress in school. It is necessary for such visits to be arranged so that they occur at a convenient time for all concerned. With the law placing strict requirements to insure a minimum of interruptions to the learning environment, we ask that you check in at the office and when visiting to please sit quietly while the teacher is instructing. He/she will talk with you when it is possible to do so without interrupting instructional time. This invitation goes to interested citizens as well as parents.
Children from other schools need permission before visiting our classrooms. Permission is needed from both the teacher and principal. Decisions will be made on an individual basis.
VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
The
WEBSITE
School related information and policies are available at www.meyersvilleisd.org or may be requested by calling the school office at (361) 275-3639 or
(361) 277-5817.
WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL
Parents should accompany the child when withdrawal becomes necessary. When possible and to avoid having to wait, please give notice at least one day in advance so forms can be prepared. Just send a note or call telling us the day you plan to withdraw, and all paperwork can be completed before you arrive to withdraw your child.