2022-2023 Independence Middle School Handbook

2022-2023

Independence Middle School P. O. Box 155 – 100 Blue Devil Dr. Independence, VA 24348 (276)773-3020 Principal: Jamey Hale

"Every child, every opportunity, every day"

Dear Parents and Students,

Welcome to what we believe will be another outstanding year here at IMS. I hope everyone has had a very relaxing and enjoyable summer break. Each school year brings new and exciting changes to our IMS school family. We are very happy to expand our school family to include the eighth grade students and staff this year. While SOL’s can be quite taxing on all of us, they do however offer vital feedback as to what each student has learned from the year’s instruction. Each SOL test measures a given bit of information that must be understood before a student can confidently move on to the next grade level. We must keep our students up to speed each year on the required standards or risk having them fall behind and losing confidence in their abilities. Throughout the summer we have been analyzing previous year data from testing to help us know what individualized interventions each child may need for the upcoming school year. This will help us insure that each child is ready to hit the floor running when the school year begins. We strive for success every day here at IMS. We want every child to take pride in their work and to put their best foot forward in all endeavors. In order to ensure student and school success we need your support and help as the year progresses. We must work together to ensure that your son or daughter has a great educational experience. Please don’t hesitate to call or come by when my staff and I can be of assistance to you. My staff and I all look forward to working with your child and helping them reach their own unique potential.

Sincerely,

Wm. Jamey Hale

2022-2023 School Calendar Grayson County Public Schools

July 2022

January 2023

S M T W T F S

S M T W T F S 2 3 4 5 6 9 10 11 12 13 14 7 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 1 8

1

2 9

4 5 6 7 8

3

10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23

Adopted February 14, 2022 Optional Teacher Flex Days Teacher In-Service/Convocation

24 25 26 27 28 29 30 Aug 1-2

29 30 31

31

Aug 3

August 2022

February 2023

Aug 4-8

Teacher In-Service Open House 1:00- 5:30

S M T W T F S Aug 5

S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5

1 2 3

6 Aug 9

First Day of School for Students Labor Day - Schools Closed Mid-Term Progress Reports End of 1st 9wk Grading Period

4

7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Sept 5 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Sept 13 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 Oct 12

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

28 29 30 31

26 27 28

Oct 19 Nov 7-8 Nov 16

Report Cards Issued

Fall Break

September 2022

March 2023

Mid-Term Progress Reports

S M T W T F S Nov 23-25

Thanksgiving Holiday

S M T W T F S

1 2

1 2 3

3 Dec 16

End of 1st Semester/Dismiss at 1:00 i i 1:00

4

5 6 7 8 9

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

4

10 Dec 19-30 Christmas Break

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 Jan 2 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Jan 3

Teacher In-Service Schools Closed

Schools Reopen

25 26 27 28 29 30

Jan 9

Report Cards Issued

Feb 22 Mar 6

Mid-Term Progress Reports End of 3rd 9wk Grading Period

October 2022

April 2023

S M T W T F S Mar 13

Report Cards Issued

S M T W T F S

1 April 6-10 Spring Break-Guaranteed

1 8

3 4 5 6 7

2 9 3 4 5 6 7 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 6 7 May 2023 30

2 9

8 April 12

Mid-Term Progress Reports

10 11 12 13 14 15 May 15

Last Day of School End of 2nd Semester

16 17 18 19 20 21 22 May 16-31 Possible Make-up Days

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

30 31

November 2022

2 Required Teacher In-Service Days following the last day

S M T W T F S of school.

1 2 3 4

5 Dates are subject to change due to inclement weather.

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30

28 29 30 31

December 2022

June 2023

S M T W T F S

S M T W T F S

1 2

1 2

3

3

5 6 7 8 9

5 6 7 8 9

4

10

4

10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Teacher In-Service Requirement

Report Cards Issued

Mid Term Progress Reports

20 Teacher In-Service Days

1st Nine Weeks October 19 2nd Nine Weeks January 9 3rd Nine Weeks March 13 4th Nine Weeks May 15

September 13 November 16 February 22

April 12

Report Cards Issued

Teacher In-Service Days/Possible Make-up Days

Schools Closed/Holidays Mid-Term Progress Reports End of 9wk Grading Period

Semester Opening

WHAT’S NEW THIS YEAR?

New Cell Phone Policy — page 35 New Homework Policy — page 25 New Schedules — page 3

Independence M iddle School Administrative Staff 20 22 - 20 23

J amey Hale

Principal

Patricia McCormick

Administrative Secretary

Christy Prudencio

Guidance Counselor

Jeff Merilic

School R esource Officer

Table of Contents

Section 1: A. Dai ly Schedule & General Procedures……………….1 B. Positive Behavioral Intervention and Support Program and Expectations ....................11

Section 2: Attendance Policy & Procedures .................................36

Section 3: Academic Guidelines & Procedures ...........................43

Section 4: Extracurricular Activities & Athletics ........................47

Section 5: Lockers/Parking/Searches .......................................50

Section 6: Guidance Services ....................................................52

Section 7: Important Forms and Signature Pages ......................52

Section 1A: Daily Schedules & General Procedures BEFORE SCHOOL REGULATIONS Students report directly to their 1st-period class this year due to safety protocols. They can pick up breakfast in the gym lobby before reporting to class. Our first bell rings at 8:10. Announcements begin at 8:13, and the tardy bell rings at 8:15. Students should not be in the building or on campus before 7:45 a.m. Upon arrival to school, all students will report to the middle school gym. Students who need to eat breakfast will walk up to the cafeteria at 7:55 with a staff member from the gym. Students arriving after 8:00 may report directly to the cafeteria. Students will then report to the middle school gym after eating breakfast. Once students have arrived on campus, they are not allowed to leave unless they are being checked out by a parent or guardian, or have permission from the principal or designee. At 8: 1 0 a.m., the 8 th grade staff will release students from the gym to report to their lockers, use the restroom and make their way to first block class. At this time, all teachers will be at their classroom doors and monitoring the hallways. First bell to begin school will ring at 8: 15 a.m. MORNING DROP OFF PROCEDURE Students being driven to school may be dropped off no earlier than 7:45 a.m. We cannot be responsible for students who arrive before that time. Parents bringing their child to the school campus should keep to the right around the student parking lot and unload at the walkway in front of the auditorium or designated crosswalk . Please do not drop off students at the IMS circle, as this tends to block the flow of traffic. AFTERNOON BUS DISMISSAL/PARENT PICKUP Parents picking up students in the afternoon before 3: 15 will need to come to the office to sign out students. If someone else checks out a student, they must have a note signed by a parent/guardian along with a telephone number where the parent may be reached for confirmation. Walkers/Riders will be released after the 1 st bell buses have cleared the campus parking lot (sometime after 3:25 pm). Students will be escorted to the rail for parent pickup. If it is raining or snowing, students will remain in front of the middle school under cover to be picked up. BEGINNING OF SCHOOL DAY Each school day will begin with a moment of silence and the Pledge of Allegiance and any

morning announcements. MOMENT OF SILENCE

In order that the right of every pupil to the free exercise of religion be guaranteed within the schools and that the freedom of each individual pupil be subject to the least possible pressure from the commonwealth either to engage in, or to refrain from, religious observation on school grounds, the school board of each school division shall establish the daily observance of one minute of silence in each classroom of the division. During such

1

period of silence, the teacher responsible for the classroom shall take care that all pupils remain seated and silent and make no distracting display to the end that each pupil may, in the exercise of his or her individual choice, meditate, pray, or engage in any other silent activity which does not interfere with, distract, or impede other pupils in the like exercise of individual choice. Code of VA 22.1-203. Students who fail to comply with this policy will be disciplined. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Students are to stand and recite the pledge while facing the flag with the right hand over the heart or in an appropriate salute if in uniform. No student, however, can be compelled to recite the pledge if he, his parent, or guardian objects on religious, philosophical, or other grounds to participating in this exercise. Students who are exempt are to remain quietly standing or sitting at their desks while others recite the pledge and are to make no display that disrupts or distracts others who are reciting the pledge. Code of VA 22.1-202. Students who fail to comply with this policy will be disciplined in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct.

2

Regular Schedule

Two-hour Delay Schedule

1:00 Dismissal Schedule

3

CHECK-IN PROCEDURE All students checking in late to school must report to the Main Office immediately upon arrival to campus to obtain an Admit Slip. Students must be signed in by a parent/guardian or provide a doctor’s note or a signed note from a parent/guardian, with a valid phone number. CHECK-OUT PROCEDURE Students checking out must bring a note, signed by a parent or guardian and with a valid phone number, to the Bus Room or the Main Office that morning before 8:20 a.m. These notes will be verified by a call to the parents or guardians. Checkouts will not be allowed unless notes can be verified. Parents, guardians, or designees who wish to pick up a child at the school, must report to the main office to sign the student out. No designee or emergency contact will be allowed to check students out of school without parent contact to the school . Check-out procedures apply to all students, regardless of age . Students will not be allowed to check out for lunch. BUS NOTES Students requesting bus notes must bring a note, signed by a parent or guardian and with a valid phone number, to the Bus Room or Main Office that morning. All bus notes must include the correct bus number(s). All bus notes will be verified by a call to parents or guardians. Additionally a student’s destination will not be changed once that student is All visitors must report directly to the Main O ffice and obtain a visitor’s pass to be worn while on school grounds. These passes must be turned in to the office upon signing out. Any items brought to students (i.e., gym clothes, shoes, money) will be kept in the Main Office and students will be allowed to pick these items up between classes. In cases of emergencies, messages will be delivered through the Main Office. Frequent disruptions to class time interfere seriously with the students’ instructional time and the operation of the school. Students are not allowed to have visitors with them during the school day. V isito r may eat lunch with a student with prior administrative approval. Visitors are not permitted to bring food to students for lunch or at any time during the school day. Please see the Grayson County Public Schools Policy Manual located at http://www.grayson.k12.va.us for full policy description regarding School Visitors. SIGNS, ANNOUNCEMENTS and ADVERTISEMENTS All signs, posters, announcements or advertisements that are to be displayed anywhere on school property must be approved by the principal or designee and must be removed promptly at the conclusion of the event. No advertisements (notices, announcements) may be placed in the school building or on the school grounds for out-of-school activities without permission of the principal or designee. LUNCH PRICES All student breakfasts and lunches are free this year. Until further notice. on the bus. VISITORS

4

COMMUNICATION WITH PARENTS School Messenger

Throughout the school year, IMS sends automated messages to students and parents/guardians relating to a variety of important matters such as student attendance, school closing or delays and school-related activities. It is important that IMS is notified of any changes to students’ phone numbers, due to the fact that this system updates daily, so that these important messages are received. Emergency School Closings Every effort is made to announce school closing by 6:00 a.m. However, a borderline case might possibly come later than 6:00 a.m. This possibility is somewhat rare. Announcements Will Be Made On: WBRF – Galax WXII Channel 12 – Winston Salem WOLD – Marion WDBJ Channel 7 – Roanoke WXLX – Roanoke WSLS Channel 10 – Roanoke WMEV – Marion WCBY Channel 5 – Public Radio WKSK – West Jefferson WVTF Public Radio – Roanoke WWWJ – Galax Announcements will be posted to the Grayson County Public Schools website and the School Messenger Instant Alert System will also be utilized to attempt phone contact with parents/guardians. If announcements are not made, schools will continue on schedule. Students and personnel should refrain from making telephone calls to the School Board Office, the bus garage, the schools, or the radio and television stations. In case of unexpected school closing, such as water or heating problems, all students should know where they are to go if parents are working or not home. Web Page Grayson County Public Schools website is: http://www.grayson.k12.va.us DRILLS FIRE DRILLS Fire drills are required by state fire regulations for the protection of students in case of an emergency. Each room in the school has posted directions for evacuation of the building during a fire drill. 1. At the fire alarm, all students will stand until ordered to leave the room. 2. Designated students will close all windows in the classroom. 3. Students will walk in single file to the designated exit. 4. Two students will be assigned to assist physically handicapped students. 5. The teacher will assure each student is out of the room and shut the classroom door when leaving. 6. Do not enter the building when the fire alarm stops sounding. No one returns to the building until you receive a command from administration or designee.

5

TORNADO DRILLS IMS Faculty and students participate in a statewide tornado drill during Tornado Preparedness Month (March) as mandated by the Governor of Virginia. EVACUATION/CRISIS DRILL IMS Faculty and students will participate in evacuation drills and lock-down drills periodically throughout the school year. BOMB THREATS Students shall not engage in any illegal conduct involving firebombs, explosive or incendiary materials or devices or hoax explosive devices or chemical bombs as defined by the Code of Virginia. Moreover, students shall not make any threats or false threats to bomb school personnel or school property. BULLYING A student, either individually or as a part of a group, shall not bully others either in person or by the use of any communication technology including computer systems, telephones, pagers, or instant messaging systems. Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to, physical, verbal, or written intimidation, taunting, name-calling, and insults and any combination of prohibited activities. "Bullying" means any aggressive and unwanted behavior that is intended to harm, intimidate, or humiliate the victim; involves a real or perceived power imbalance between the aggressor or aggressors and victim; and is repeated over time or causes severe emotional trauma. "Bullying" includes cyber bullying. "Bullying" does not include ordinary teasing, horseplay, argument or peer conflict. CHILD ABUSE/HARASSMENT Any student who suspects they are being abused should immediately contact the principal, assistant principal, or guidance counselor. Abuse/harassment is any inappropriate touching, contact or comments by another person. Any staff member who suspects that a student is being abused is obligated by law to contact an administrator. DEFIANCE OF THE AUTHORITY OF SCHOOL PERSONNEL Students shall comply with any oral or written instructions made by school personnel within the scope of their authority as provided by Board policies and regulations. HARASSMENT The Grayson County School Board is committed to maintaining an educational environment and workplace that is free from harassment. In accordance with law, the Board prohibits harassment against students, employees, or others on the basis of sex, gender, race, color, national origin, disability, religion, ancestry, age, marital status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law and based on a belief that such characteristic exists at school or any school sponsored activity. A student shall not harass another student or any school employee, volunteer, student teacher or any other person present in school facilities or at school functions.

6

Harassment based on sex consists of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical conduct or other verbal or physical conduct or communication, which may include the use of cell phones or the internet. Harassment based on race, national origin, disability or religion consists of physical or verbal conduct, which may include use of cell phones or the internet, relating to an individual’s race, national origin, disability or religion. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the harassment policies: Susie Funk, Director of Student Learning P. O. Box 888 Independence, VA 24348 (276) 773-2832 sfunk@grayson.k12.va.us Doug Lawson, Special Education Supervisor P. O. Box 888 Independence, VA 24348 (276) 773-2832 dlawson@grayson.k12.va.us Please see the Grayson County Public Schools’ Policy Manual located at http://www.grayson.k12.va.us for full policy description. DISCRIMINATION The Grayson County School Board does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Susie Funk, Director of Student Learning P. O. Box 888 Independence, VA 24348 (276) 773-2832 sfunk@grayson.k12.va.us Doug Lawson, Special Education Supervisor P. O. Box 888 Independence, VA 24348 (276) 773-2832 dlawson@grayson.k12.va.us

7

Please see the Grayson County Public Schools’ Policy Manual located at http://www.grayson.k12.va.us for full policy description. For further information on notice of non-discrimination, visit http://wdcrobcolp01.ed.gov/CFAPPS/OCR/contactus.cfm for the address and phone number of the office that serves your area, or call 1-800-421-3481. ADMINISTERING MEDICINES TO STUDENTS Medications Prescribed for Individual Students Employees of Grayson County School Board may give medication prescribed for individual students only pursuant to the written order of a physician, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner and with written permission from the student’s parent or guardian. Such medicine must be in the original container and delivered to the principal, school nurse, or school division designee by the parent or guardian of the student. Nonprescription Medications Employees of Grayson County School Board may give nonprescription medication to students only with the written permission of the parent or guardian. Such permission shall include the name of the medication, the required dosage of the medication, and the time the medicine is to be given. Such medicine must be in the original container and delivered to the principal, school nurse, or school division designee by the parent or guardian of the student. Self-Care and Self-Administration of Medication Each enrolled student who is diagnosed with diabetes, with parental consent and written approval from the prescriber, is permitted to  carry with him and use supplies, including a reasonable and appropriate short-term supply of carbohydrates, an insulin pump, and equipment for immediate treatment of high and low blood glucose levels, and  self-check his own blood glucose levels on school buses, on school property, and at school-sponsored activities. Students may be permitted to carry and self-administer other medications when the following conditions are met:  Written parental permission for self-administration of specified non prescription medication is on file with the school.  The non-prescription medication is in the original container and appropriately labeled with the manufacturer’s directions.  The student’s name is affixed to the container.  The student possesses only the amount of non-prescription medicine needed for one school day/activity.

8

Sharing, borrowing, distributing, manufacturing or selling any medication is prohibited. Permission to self-administer non-prescription medication may be revoked if the student violates this policy and the student may be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the Standards of Student Conduct. Self-Administration of Asthma Medications and Auto-Injectable Epinephrine Students with a diagnosis of asthma or anaphylaxis, or both, are permitted to possess and self-administer inhaled asthma medications or auto-injectable epinephrine, or both, as the case may be, in accordance with this policy during the school day, at school-sponsored activities, or while on a school bus or other school property. A student may possess and self-administer asthma medication, or auto injectable epinephrine, or both, when the following conditions are met:  Written parental consent that the student may self-administer inhaled asthma medications or auto-injectable epinephrine, or both, is on file with the school.  Written notice from the student’s health care provider is on file with the school, indicating the identity of the student, stating the diagnosis of asthma or anaphylaxis, or both, and approving self-administration of inhaled asthma medications or auto-injectable epinephrine, or both, that have been prescribed for the student; specifying the name and dosage of the medication, the frequency in which it is to be administered and the circumstances which may warrant its use; and attesting to the student’s demonstrated ability to safely and effectively self-administer the medication.  An individualized health care plan is prepared, including emergency procedures for any life-threatening conditions.  There is a consultation with the student’s parent before any limitations or restrictions are imposed on a student’s possession and self-administration of inhaled asthma medications and auto-injectable epinephrine, and before the permission to possess and self-administer inhaled asthma medications and auto-injectable epinephrine at any point during the school year is revoked.  Self-administration of inhaled asthma medications and auto-injectable epinephrine is consistent with the purposes of the Virginia School Health Guidelines and the Guidelines for Specialized Health Care Procedure Manual, which are jointly issued by the Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia Department of Health.  Information regarding the health condition of the student may be disclosed to school board employees in accordance with state and federal law governing the disclosure of information contained in student scholastic records. Permission granted to a student to possess and self-administer asthma medications or auto-injectable epinephrine, or both, will be effective for a period of 365 calendar days, and must be renewed annually. However, a student’s right to possess and self administer inhaled asthma medication or auto-injectable epinephrine, or both, may

9

be limited or revoked after appropriate school personnel consult with the student’s parents. Epinephrine Pursuant to an order or standing protocol issued by the prescriber within the course of his professional practice, any school nurse, School Board employee, employee of a local appropriating body or employee of a local health department who is authorized by a prescriber and trained in the administration of epinephrine may possess epinephrine and administer it to any student believed to be having an anaphylactic reaction. SCHOOL NURSE A school nurse is available to assist in medical emergencies. Students needing to see a nurse must report to the main office. Permission from their present teacher is required before reporting to the office. Upon return from the nurse, students should report back to the appropriate class. SCHOOL HEALTH SERVICES Several registered nurses provide health care for Grayson County Students. The School Health Office is located in the Grayson County School Health Services Clinic, which adjoins the GCHS Campus. Services include screening, staff training, development of health care plans for students with special health needs, special education health services, preventative and primary health care, records review, health education, and wellness promotion. You may access the School Health Office at 276-773-2906. ACCIDENT/ILLNESS NOTIFICATION In case of emergency, the school will first notify the student’s parents or guardians. If they cannot be reached, the emergency phone number will be called. Emergency numbers should be given on the registration form. Please be sure to notify the people whose numbers you give your school to use in case of emergency. Please also notify your school whenever a telephone number changes. PROTECTIVE EYE DEVICES Pupils shall wear protective eye devices in those areas required by law and in areas that may be considered dangerous by the principal and division superintendent. VISITING TEACHER/SCHOOL SOCIAL WORKER The visiting teacher/school social worker is a practice specialty that provides unique services to students, families, and communities in order to help students receive maximum benefits from the school program. Students are the primary focus of the educational process and are viewed by the visiting teacher/school social worker in relation to the family, school, neighborhood, and community. This individual contributes knowledge of and concern for the wide range of social, emotional, cultural, and economic differences among children, families, and communities and is experienced and trained to deal with students through parent contact, counseling students, or consulting with school personnel.

10

Integrity Motivation Success Section 1B: Positive Behavioral Intervention & Support Program and Expectations Independence Middle School’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports Plan Section 1B: Positive Behavioral Intervention & Support Program and Expectations Independence Middle School’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports Plan Positive Behavorial Interventions and Supports is a pro-active process to develop a learning environment where students and teachers feel appreciated, safe, and respected. Reinforcers are used to assist faculty/staff in focusing on positive aspects of student behavior and to assist students in making the right choice. VENDING MACHINES The vending machines are turned off during breakfast and during lunch. Operation Schedule for Drink/Snack Machines ON: 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. 1:40 p.m. - 6:00 a.m. OFF: 6:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. - 1:40 p.m. GLASS BOTTLES Drinks in glass containers are forbidden on school property. VENDING MACHINES The vending machines are turned off during breakfast and during lunch. Operation Schedule for Drink/Snack Machines ON: 8: 15 a.m. - 1 2:00 a.m. OFF: 1: 05 p.m. - 6:00 a.m. 6:00 a.m. - 8: 15 a.m. 1 2:00 p .m. - 1: 05 p.m. Integrity Motivation Success GLASS BOTTLES Drinks in glass containers are forbidden on school property. What is PBIS? STUDENT CONDUCT/DISCIPLINE Refer to the Grayson County Public Schools’ Student Code of Conduct. I ntegrity M otivation S uccess What is PBIS?  1 st 9 weeks - Field Day  2 nd 9 week - Twin County Cinema  3 rd 9 weeks - Blue Ridge Bowling Alley  4 th 6 weeks - Wytheville Recreation Center ( see next page for more info ) • 1st 9 Weeks - TBD • 2nd 9 Weeks - TBD • 3rd 9 Weeks - TBD • End of Year - TBD STUDENT CONDUCT/DISCIPLINE Refer to the Grayson County Public Schools’ Student Code of Conduct. I ntegrity M otivation S uccess Planned Incentive Activities for the End of Each Grading Period Criteria for End of Grading Period Activities Positive Behavorial Interventions and Supports is a pro-active process to develop a learning environment where students and teachers feel appreciated, safe, and respected. Reinforcers are used to assist faculty/staff in focusing on positive aspects of student behavior and to assist students in making the right choice. Planned Incentive Activities for the End of Each Grading Period

11  Attendance - No more than 1 unexcused day absent (3 unexcused check-ins/ unexcused check- outs = 1 absence  Must have at least a “C” in all core classes for the nine weeks  No out-of-school suspensions  No office referral resulting in in-school suspension, after-school detention, or bus removal 11  Attendance - No more than 1 unexcused day absent (3 unexcused check-ins/ unexcused check- outs = 1 absence  Must have at least a “C” i all core classes for the nine weeks  No out-of-school suspensions  No office referral resulting in in-school suspension, after-school detention, or bus removal  Student record is cleared at the beginning of each nine weeks. * Remember an excused absence is a parent note ( p to 5 for the year ), doctor’s excuse, death in the family, or summons to court. st maintain a passing grade in all core classes Independence Middle S l’s Positive Behavioral Inter entions and Supports Plan  1 st 9 weeks - Field Day  2 nd 9 weeks - Twin County Cinema  3 rd 9 weeks - Blue Ridge Bowling Alley  4 th 6 weeks - Wytheville Recreation Center ( see next page for more info ) Independe ce Middle School’s Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports Plan

Criteria for End of Grading Period Activities

choice.

End of Year Reward Celebration Fun Day

End of Year Reward Celebratio Fun Day

End of Year Reward Celebration Fun Day

Students who have followed IMS’s PBIS plan throughout the 20 22-2023 school year will be eligible to attend an end of the year celebration!!!!! Criteria to go to Reward Celebration Students who have followed IMS’s PBIS plan throughout the 20 22-2023 school year will be eligible to attend an end of the year celebration!!!!!  Attendance – No more than 4 unexcused days absent per year. * Remember: 3 unexcused check-ins and/or unexcused check-outs= 1 absence. Criteria to go to Reward Celebration  Academics – Must maintain a passing grade in all core classes.  Attendance – No more than 4 unexcused days absent per year. * Remember: 3 unexcused check-ins and/or unexcused check-outs= 1 absence.  Behavior - No more than 1 day out-of-school suspension, after- school detention, or bus removal. (Transfer students will be considered on a case-by-case basis.)  Academics – Must maintain a passing grad in all core classes.  Behavior - No more than 1 day out-of-school suspension, after- school detention, or bus removal. (Transfer students will be considered on a case-by-case basis.) * Remember an excused absence is a parent note (up to 5 for the year ), doctor’s excuse, death in the family, or summons to court.

Students who have followed IMS’s PBIS plan throu the 20 22-2023 school year will be eligible to att an end of the year celebration!!!!!

Criteria to go to Reward Celebrati  Attendance – No m re than 4 unexcused days absent per ye * Remember: 3 unexcused check-ins and/or unexcused check-outs=

 Academics – Mus maintain a passing grade in all core classe

 Behavior - No more than 1 day out-of-school suspension, afte detention, or bus removal. (Transfer students will be c nsidered on a case-by-case basis.)

* Remember an excused absence is a parent note (up to 5 for t doctor’s excuse, death in the family, or summons to cou

** $5 charge will be required to help with the cost of the celebration.

* Remember an excused absence is a parent note (up to 5 for the year ), doctor’s excuse, death in the family, or summons to court.

12

** $5 charge will be required to help with the cost of the cele

** $5 charge will be required to help with the cost of the celebration.

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

PROCEDURES FOR ASSIGNING HOMEWORK Grayson County Public Schools supports research-based equitable homework practices that allow students to practice, prepare, study and/or extend learning. Homework will be clearly communicated to students and parents/guardians and should be appropriate for the age and stage of development of the student. Guidelines: The following guidelines are intended to support principals, teachers, parent/guardians, and students in developing a common understanding of homework expectations. *Home work assignments will be limited to Monday through Thursday only — No Friday or weekend assignment packets. Long term assignments or projects will not be due for submission on the day school resumes after a break including three-day weekends at any grade level. *Home work assignments should be limited to 15 minutes for each subject/class nightly, (ex. 5-8 questions/problems in reading/math). It is important to be mindful that students have multiple subjects and classes. Class periods should allow for completion of assignments with minimal homework being required. Additional notes *Teachers should refrain from utilizing timed tests or quizzes that result in penalizing the grade of students.

*Routinely check for student understanding before progressing to new material.

*Be mindful of Extra-Curricular Schedules and school related activities to avoid penalizing students for attending school related activities and events.

25

TRANSPORTATION Forty-five school buses travel regular home-to-school routes each school day to provide transportation for students in all areas of the county. Information about bus routes and bus numbers should be directed to individual school principals. Bus rules and regulations, which are vital to the safe transportation of students, are distributed during school business days or the first day of class. Parents are asked to read these carefully, sign the form, and return the completed form to the school office. Requests for any change in a student’s normal bus routine must be written, dated, and signed by the student’s parent or guardian and presented to the school principal for consideration. To enhance safe pupil transportation, each bus is equipped with an audio and video surveillance system, which allows monitoring of students and driver. Emergency evacuation drills are practiced twice during the school year. All buses are equipped with a two-way radio communication system. Activity buses provide transportation for secondary students participating in school related activities scheduled after regular school hours. Designated stops for school buses are generally assigned to central locations in the county. SCHOOL BUS BEHAVIOR/BUS-RELATED OFFENSES Students shall not behave in a disruptive manner or otherwise violate these Standards of Conduct while waiting for a school bus, while on a school bus or after being discharged from a school bus. Riding the bus is a privilege that can be lost if the student’s conduct is detrimental to the safety of other people on the bus. The following rules relate to behavior on school buses and any vehicle used to transport students: 1. The bus driver can assign seats to students. 2. Keep head, hands, and feet inside the bus at all times. SCHOOL AUTHORITY Pupils shall be under the jurisdiction of the Grayson County School Board and its agents while in school, when going to and from school on school transportation, and when on school-sponsored field trips and athletic events. School board employees are responsible for the general welfare and care of students under their jurisdiction. CAFETERIA CONDUCT Breakfast and lunch will be served to students each day school is in session. All students are encouraged to eat each day. Free and reduced priced meals are available to certain students who qualify under state and federal school lunch programs. Application forms are available in the main office and must be renewed annually. 1. Throwing food or other items will not be tolerated. 2. After eating lunch, all students must remove all trash from the table. 3. No tobacco is allowed on the bus. 4. Do not eat or drink on the bus. 5. Do not be destructive. 6. Do not use profane language. 7. Cooperate with the driver in keeping the bus clean. 8. Students are to stay in their seats.

26

3. No student is to break the lunch line. 4. Students are not to be out of the cafeteria without administrative permission. This means a student is not to be in any other room during lunch unless approved by an administrator. 5. All food items must be consumed in the cafeteria. 6. Students are not allowed to order lunch and have it delivered to school. 7. No food is to be brought into the gym in the morning or into the classrooms after lunch. OTHER CONDUCT In addition to these specific standards, students shall not engage in any conduct which materially or substantially disrupts the ongoing educational process or which is otherwise a violation of federal, state or local law. Please see the Grayson County Public Schools’ Policy Manual located at http://www.grayson.k12.va.us for full policy description regarding Student Conduct, Standards of Student Conduct and Student Suspension/Expulsion. TOBACCO-FREE SCHOOL CAMPUSES Grayson County School Board recognizes that the use of tobacco products is a health, safety, and environmental hazard for students, employees, visitors, and school facilities. The Board believes that the use of tobacco products on school grounds, in school buildings and facilities, on school property or at school-related or school-sponsored events is detrimental to the health and safety of students, staff and visitors. The Board acknowledges that adult employees and visitors serve as role models for students. The Board recognizes that it has an obligation to promote positive role models in schools and to promote a healthy learning and working environment, free from unwanted smoke and tobacco use for the students, employees, and visitors on the school campus. Tobacco Use Prohibited No student, staff member or school visitor is permitted to use any tobacco product at any time, including non-school hours (24/7):  in any building, facility, or vehicle owned, leased, rented or chartered by the Grayson County Public Schools;  on any school grounds and property – including athletic fields and parking lots – owned leased, rented or chartered by Grayson County Public Schools; or  at any school-sponsored or school-related event on-campus or off-campus. In addition, school district employees, school volunteers, contractors or other persons performing services on behalf of Grayson County Public Schools also are prohibited from using tobacco products at any time while on duty and in the presence of students, either on or off school grounds. Further, no student shall be permitted to possess a tobacco product while in any school building; while on school grounds or property; or at any school-sponsored or

27

school–related event, or at any other time that students are under the authority of school personnel. Tobacco products may be included in instructional or research activities in public school buildings, if the activity is conducted or supervised by the faculty member overseeing the instruction or research project, and the activity does not include smoking, chewing, or otherwise ingesting the tobacco product. Definition of Tobacco Products and Tobacco Use For the purposes of this policy, “tobacco product” is defined to include cigarettes, cigars, blunts, bidis, pipes, chewing tobacco, snuff, and any other items containing or reasonably resembling tobacco or tobacco products. “Tobacco use” includes smoking, chewing, dipping, or any other use of tobacco products. Electronic Cigarettes and Vape Devices Students are prohibited from possessing electronic cigarettes or vapes on school buses, on school premises and at school-sponsored activities. All other persons are prohibited from using electronic cigarettes on school premises and school vehicles. Enforcement for Students Consequences for students engaging in the prohibited behavior will be provided in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. Students who violate the school districts tobacco use policy will be referred to the guidance counselor, a school nurse, or other health or counseling services for all offenses for health information, counseling and referral. Parents/guardians will be notified of all violations and actions taken by the school. Enforcement for Staff and Visitors Consequences for employees who violate the tobacco use policy will be in accordance with personnel policies and may include verbal warning, written reprimand, or termination. Visitors using tobacco products will be asked to refrain while on school property or leave the premises. Law enforcement officers may be contacted to escort the person off the premises or cite the person for trespassing if the person refuses to leave the school property. Forfeiture of any fee charged for admission will be enforced for visitors violating this policy. Please see the Grayson County Public Schools’ Policy Manual located at http://www.grayson.k12.va.us for full policy description and other related policies.

28

DRUGS IN SCHOOL I. Generally

Possession of a controlled substance, imitation controlled substance or marijuana, as defined in Va. Code § 18.2-247, or synthetic cannabinoids as defined in Va. Code § 18.2-248.1:1, on school property or at a school-sponsored activity is prohibited. A. Expulsion A student who is determined to have brought a controlled substance, imitation controlled substance or marijuana, or synthetic cannabinoids as defined in Va. Code § 18.2-248.1:1, onto school property or to a school-sponsored activity may be expelled in accordance with Policy JGD/JGE Student Suspension/Expulsion. The superintendent may determine, based on the facts of the particular case, that special circumstances exist and another form of discipline is appropriate. Any such disciplinary action shall be taken in accordance with Article 3 of Chapter 14 of Title 22.1 of the Code of Virginia. B. Prevention and Intervention Any student who violates this policy shall participate in the prevention and intervention activities identified in Grayson County school division’s drug and violence prevention plan. The School Board may require any student who is in possession of or under the influence of drugs at school or school-sponsored activities to: (1) undergo evaluation for drug abuse and (2) participate in a drug treatment program if recommended by the evaluator and if the student’s parent consents. C. Required Reporting to Parents and Local Law Enforcement The Principal shall report a violation of this policy to parents and local law enforcement as required by Policy CLA. II. Students with Disabilities A. Students with disabilities are subject to the provisions of Section I of this policy and may be disciplined to the same extent as a nondisabled student provided the manifestation review committee determines that the violation was not a manifestation of the student’s disability. The provisions of Policy JGDA Disciplining Students with Disabilities will be followed in addition to the regular disciplinary procedures. B. Additional authority to remove a student with a disability from school for a drug violation. 1. In addition to the authority granted in subsection A above, a student with a disability may be removed without parent consent and assigned to an interim alternative education program by school personnel for not more than forty-five (45) school days when the student knowingly possesses or uses illegal drugs, or sells or solicits the sale of a controlled substance, while at school, on school premises, or at a school function under the

29

jurisdiction of a state or local educational agency. This option is available regardless of whether a manifestation exists. The removal should not be in excess of any removal imposed on a student without a disability for the same offense. 2. For purposes of this forty-five (45) school day removal, “illegal drugs” and “controlled substance” are defined as follows: a. Controlled substance means a drug or other substance identified under schedules I, II, III, IV, or V in § 202(c) of the Controlled Substances Act at 21 U.S.C. § 812(c). b. Illegal drug means a controlled substance, but does not include a controlled substance that is legally possessed or used under the supervision of a licensed health-care professional or that is legally possessed or used under any other authority under the Controlled Substances Act or under any other provision of federal law. Please see the Grayson County Public Schools’ Policy Manual located at http://www.grayson.k12.va.us for other related policies. Use and/or Possession of Alcohol, Tobacco, Anabolic Steroids and Other Drugs A student shall not possess, use, or distribute any of the restricted substances listed below on school property, on school buses or during school activities, on or off school property. A student shall not attempt to possess, use, consume, procure and/or purchase, any of the restricted substances listed below or what is represented by or to the student to be any of the restricted substances listed below or what the student believes is any of the restricted substances listed below. A student shall not be under the influence of any of the restricted substances listed below, regardless of whether the student’s condition amounts to legal intoxication. Restricted substances include but are not limited to alcohol, tobacco and inhalant products, and other controlled substances defined in the Drug Control Act, Chapter 15.1 of Title 54 of the Code of Virginia , such as anabolic steroids, stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, marijuana, imitation and look-alike drugs, drug paraphernalia and any prescription or non-prescription drug possessed in violation of School Board policy. The School Board may require any student who has been found in possession of, or under the influence of, drugs or alcohol in violation of School Board policy to undergo evaluation for drug or alcohol abuse, or both, and, if recommended by the evaluator and with the consent of the student's parent, to participate in a treatment program. In addition to any other consequences which may result, a student who is a member of a school athletic team will be ineligible for two school years to compete in interscholastic athletic competition if the school principal and the division

30

superintendent determine that the student used anabolic steroids during the training period immediately preceding or during the sport season of the athletic team, unless such steroid was prescribed by a licensed physician for a medical condition. The laws regarding the sale, possession, and usage of drugs are clear. Appropriate penalties are provided for violators of these laws. All members of the school community are subject to these laws on school grounds as well as elsewhere. Neither persons under the influence nor thought to be under the influence of drugs will be allowed on school premises. This policy shall be strictly enforced by all concerned. Students found in possession of, distributing, or using tobacco, alcohol or any illegal substances are subject to disciplinary action and possible criminal charges. POSSESSION OR USE OF WEAPONS OR OTHER DANGEROUS ARTICLES Students shall not have in their possession any type of unauthorized firearm or other article which may be used as a weapon, regardless of whether it is commonly accepted as such. (See Policy JFCD Weapons in School.) PROFANE, OBSCENE OR ABUSIVE LANGUAGE OR CONDUCT Students shall not use vulgar, profane or obscene language or gestures or engage in conduct that is vulgar, profane or obscene or disrupts the teaching and learning environment. THREATS OR INTIMIDATION Students shall not make any verbal, written, or physical threat of bodily injury or use of force directed toward another person. Students shall not use electronic technology or communication devices, such as the internet or cell phones, to intimidate or threaten for any reason. TRESPASSING Students shall not trespass on school property or use school facilities without proper authority or permission, or during a period of suspension or expulsion. VANDALISM Students shall not willfully or maliciously damage or deface any school building or other property owned or under the control of the School Board. In addition, students shall not willfully or maliciously damage or deface property belonging to or under the control of any other person at school, on a school bus or at school-sponsored events. STUDENT DEBT If a student does not pay his/her debts, then he/she is considered “Not In Good Standing” with the school. This will result in prohibiting the student from participating in extra curricular activities. This includes, but is not limited to, dances, athletics, and field trips. STUDENT FEES, FINES AND CHARGES The School Board charges student fees and takes action to recover funds for the loss of or damage to School Board property in accordance with the state and federal law. No fee may be charged unless it has been approved by the School Board.

31