Nansemond-Suffolk Academy Middle School Student and Parent Handbook 2013-2014
Telephone (757) 539-8789 Middle School Fax (757) 934-2333 Business Office Fax (757) 934-8363 www.nsacademy.org 3373 Pruden Boulevard Suffolk, Virginia 23434
WELCOME FROM THE HEAD OF MIDDLE SCHOOL Welcome to Nansemond-Suffolk Academy’s Middle School! We are excited to become partners with you and your child. Our safe and nurturing environment provides the opportunity to explore new areas of interest, as well as the chance to build upon the activities in which a student is already involved. The Middle School years are without a doubt one of the most influential times in a child’s development. With so much change and growth, it is essential for all members of the community – teachers, students, coaches and parents to help guide students through the many changes they will experience. We urge your careful reflection and discussion of the information contained in the handbook. It is imperative that each student fully adheres to our Code of Conduct and Honor Code. It is our goal as a Middle School to provide a positive, well-rounded learning experience for every student. We look forward to working with you and your child.
GO SAINTS! Sincerely, Michelle J. Horton ’89
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome from the Head of Middle School Administration and Staff Board of Trustees Introduction Mission Statement
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GENERAL SCHOOL INFORMATION Times of Operation 7 Attendance 7 Absences and Tardiness 7 Visitors 7 Accident Reporting 8 Announcements 8 Assembly Programs 8 Daily Schedules 8 Dress Code 9 Dress Code for Boys 9 Dress Code for Girls 9 Prohibited Clothing 10 Dress Code for Field Trips 10 School Spirit Days 10 Beyond the Bell 10 Extracurricular Activities 10 Dining Services 10 Lunch Charges 11 School Counseling Services 11 Health Services 11 Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) 11 Library Media Center 11 Lockers 12 Lost Found 12 Parking 12 Spirit Shop 12 Student Council Organization 12 Telephones/Cell Phones 12 Bus Transportation 13 Carpool Transportation 13
EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENT BEHAVIOR Code of Conduct Honor Code Student Responsibilities Disciplinary Procedures Technology Code of Ethics Cafeteria Behavior Manners
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ACADEMICS Curriculum Information and Policies Grading/Report Cards Grading Scale Academic Recognition Homework Promotion Policy Readmission Policy
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ATHLETICS
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PARENT INFORMATION Class Parties Communication Field Trips Parent Conferences
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EMERGENCY CLOSINGS
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FUNDRAISING & MARKETING POLICY 19 SECURITY CAMERA POLICY
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ADMINISTRATION, FACULTY AND STAFF Deborah B. Russell Amy Morrell
Head of School Chief of Staff Executive Assistant to the Head of School
Edie Higinbotham ’85
Chief Financial Officer
To Be Announced
Director of Admissions
Kenda Council ’91
Director of Advancement
Betty Jean Riddick ’72
Director of Girls’ Athletics
T.W. Johnson ’92
Director of Boys’ Athletics
Richard Hurd
Director of Risk Management
Michelle Horton ’89
Head of Middle School
Tracy Grady
Middle School Counselor
Marlene Nierman
Middle School Office Manager
J. Michael King ’94
Head of Upper School
Nancy Webb
Head of Lower School
Jean Mauck
Assistant Head of Lower School Director of Pre-Kindergarten
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BOARD OF TRUSTEES R. Scott Carr, Chairman Rob J. Gies, Vice Chairman S. Jane Benton, Secretary Charles R. Birdsong ’88, Treasurer and Finance Committee Chair Patricia P. Hartman, Advancement Committee Chair Brian T. Rowe, Buildings and Grounds Committee Chair Deborah M. McHorney, Governance Committee Chair
G. Robert Aston, Jr.
Crystal H. Jackson
Dr. I. A. “Dimi” Barot ’93
Robert W. Jones
Monica Y. Brothers
Dr. Anne E. Morgan ’90
Harry L. Cross III
Roy “Chip” Runyon III
Carlton L. Cutchin III
W. Douglas Russell ’80
Donald Z. Goldberg
Nancy M. Tuck ’82
William W. Hannah
Kenneth W. Wren, Jr.
J. Carney Hawks ’92
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INTRODUCTION Nansemond-Suffolk Academy, founded in 1966, continues to fulfill its objective of educating young people. The Academy’s programs place a strong emphasis on intellectual, social and physical growth so that its students will take active and consequential roles in society. Drawing on decades of experience as well as current educational research, the administration and faculty have defined the school’s policies and expectations. It is through the combined efforts of home and school that NSA can provide an educational climate in which all students can achieve and be their best.
MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Nansemond-Suffolk Academy is to provide an academically rigorous college preparatory education in an atmosphere fostering moral character, respect, responsibility and compassion. With a commitment to honor above all, the Academy seeks to develop and inspire leaders who value diversity, creativity, scholastic excellence and community service.
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GENERAL SCHOOL INFORMATION Times of Operation School begins at 8:10 a.m. and dismisses at 3:00 p.m. All students should report to advisee at 8:10 a.m. and are counted tardy after 8:11 a.m. Any student arriving to class after 8:11 a.m. will be tardy and a parent must sign in the child at the Middle School Office. Students should not arrive before 7:45 a.m. An after-school program called “Beyond the Bell” will be offered for Middle School students from 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. This program is strictly a supervised study time available to our students in the afternoon. Arrangements may be made through the Business Office for this service. Attendance Regular attendance and punctuality are essential to a student’s success in school. Persistent absenteeism and tardiness create a genuine hardship for both students and teachers and may necessitate a conference with school counselors and/or administrators. Absences and Tardiness Attendance in school is of the utmost importance. The Academy has an obligation to set minimum attendance requirements in order for a student to receive credit. Illness, physician or dental appointments, other professional appointments or personal emergencies constitute an excused tardy. Absence from school requires a written excuse from a parent/guardian. Students in the Middle School must present the written excuse to their advisor. 1. Students who have been absent from school must bring a signed note from their parent giving the date(s) of the absence(s) and the reason(s) for the absences(s). 2. Students will submit their early dismissal notes to the Middle School office prior to the beginning of first period. 3. Pre-excused absences are defined as absences that occur with advance knowledge of the parents and administration (i.e. family trips, etc.) A letter requesting pre-excused absences must be given to the Head of Middle School at least five school days prior to the absence or early dismissal. Parents are expected to schedule family vacations around school holidays; however, should a family trip occur during the school session, it is not expected that the teacher will provide work ahead of time. The student is responsible for completing all make-up work according to the guidelines set by the teacher. In the event of absence from school, parents are encouraged to plan to pick up assignments from the Middle School Office. Daily work and homework will be provided without a phone call and will be available for pickup at 3:00 p.m. Class assignments and homework will be posted online. Persistent tardiness may affect academic success as well as be disruptive to the class already in session. Students accruing multiple tardies to school within a grading period will be required to conference with the Middle School Counselor, Head of Middle School and parent(s). If a student should miss twenty school days, retention in the current grade may result. Parents may be asked to meet with the Middle School Counselor or the Head of Middle School to discuss extenuating circumstances. In order for a student to be counted present in the Middle School for the day, the student must be in class for at least one-half of the school day or 3.5 hours. Visitors All visitors must report to the Middle School Office to sign in and to obtain a visitor’s pass. Visitors are expected to conform to the school dress code and school rules. All visitors will wear 7
visitor badges provided by the office and must return to the office to sign out when they leave campus. Accident Reporting Any time a student is injured or is involved in an accident anywhere on NSA grounds or during a school sponsored activity, the student should immediately notify his/her teacher/advisor. The nurse should also be notified. All accidents must be reported on an accident report form and promptly turned into the Middle School Office with a copy to the nurse. Accident forms may be obtained from the nurse. Any visitor to the campus during school hours must report any accidents to the school nurse. After normal hours of operation or in the event the school nurse is not available, accidents should be reported to an administrator or sponsor of the event. Announcements Daily announcements will be read over the public address system. Students will be notified during the school day if after-school activities have been canceled. Students are encouraged to contact a parent during the school day at the Middle School Office regarding a change in after-school activities. Assembly Programs Assembly programs are planned to benefit the student body. Students are expected to follow certain procedures for these programs. Basic guidelines include but are not limited to the following: 1. Enter the activity quietly and have a seat. 2. Be respectful to one another and to the guest speaker or performing group. 3. Remain with one’s group and depart in the same quiet manner one entered. 4. All classes are to sit in assigned sections when instructed to do so. 5. Students are expected to conduct themselves in an orderly manner at all assemblies. (Booing, talking when a speaker is talking and jeering are unacceptable practices.) 6. No books or backpacks are permitted at assemblies. Daily Schedules Regular Daily Schedule Class Period Beginning Advisee 8:10 1 8:20 2 9:10 Morning Break 9:55 3 10:05 4 10:55 Lunch 11:45 5 12:20 6 1:05 7 1:55 Activity Period 2:50
Noon Dismissal Schedule Class Period Beginning Advisee 8:10 1 8:20 2 8:52 3 9:24 4 9:56 5 10:28 6 11:00 7 11:32
Ending 8:15 9:05 9:55 10:05 10:50 11:40 12:15 1:00 1:50 2:45 3:00
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Ending 8:18 8:47 9:19 9:51 10:23 10:55 11:27 11:59
Dress Code NSA asks students to dress in a manner that is in good taste and appropriate for school and schoolsponsored functions. Cleanliness and neatness help to develop pride in one’s appearance and a positive self-image. We ask that each student dress for his/her own sense of self-respect, as well as for the consideration of others. For this reason we have specific requirements for standards of dress. Hallmarks of our dress code are being neat, clean and well-groomed. Due to frequent changes in fashion, it is impossible to specifically describe all clothing styles that might be considered unacceptable to wear to school. NSA reserves the right to determine whether clothing conforms to the “spirit” as well as the “letter” of the dress code. When parents support the dress code, it makes a clear statement to the students that they support the policies and standards of our school. Dress code violations can result in office referrals. Dress Code for Boys • All boys’ shirts must be tucked into pants. • Shirts for boys must be collared and should not have any writing or messages. Turtleneck shirts are considered collared. A sweater may be worn without a collared shirt. Boys may wear a tee shirt underneath the sweater. • Blue denim shorts and jeans are not permitted. Denim of other solid colors may be worn as long as it is not frayed, faded and/or stonewashed. • No “Heelies” and “Crocs” of any type may be worn. • Pants must be worn at the appropriate waist level. Belt loops require a belt. • Hats or other head coverings must be removed while in the buildings. • Boys’ hair should be cut to stay out of eyes and should not exceed the bottom of the collar, with no ponytails or radical hairstyles. • Facial hair, earrings or other adornments are prohibited for boys. • Only NSA or college logos may be worn on sweatshirts with no hoods. • All jackets, coats and hooded sweatshirts are considered outerwear and may not be worn in the classrooms during the school day. Dress for the weather and the temperature! Dress Code for Girls • Shirts for girls may not include any writing or messages. • Girls’ shirts may be worn on the outside of slacks, shorts or skirts. • Shirts or blouses must be of proper fit and condition. “See through” material, low-cut necklines, bare shoulders or backs, backless tops and tank tops are not permitted and undergarments may not be visible. • Blue denim shorts, skirts, jeans and are not permitted. Denim clothing of other solid colors may be worn as long as it is in good repair and is not frayed, faded and/or stonewashed. • Shoes must be safe and appropriate for school. Backless shoes are not permitted nor are shoes with heels over 2 inches in height. No “Heelies” and “Crocs” of any type may be worn. • Shorts, skirts and skorts must be no shorter than 4 inches above the top of the kneecap. • Skirts and pants must be worn at the appropriate waist level. • Hats and other head coverings must be removed while in the buildings. • Only NSA or college logos may be worn on sweatshirts with no hoods. • All jackets, coats and hooded sweatshirts are considered outerwear and may not be worn in the classrooms during the school day. Dress for the weather and the temperature!
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Prohibited Clothing • Blue denim attire • Oversized clothing • Flannel shirts or men’s shirts worn as jackets • Faded clothing • Athletic clothing and jerseys • Tight, form-fitting clothing Dress Code for Field Trips Teachers at each grade level will communicate with students and parents on appropriate attire for all field trips. School Spirit Days Spirit Days will be announced periodically by the administration. On Spirit Days, students may wear blue, gold and/or white, blue denim and NSA apparel. Messages on tee shirts that are blue or gold must be school appropriate. Boys do not have to tuck shirts in on Spirit Days. Beyond the Bell Students are expected to be picked up or must depart campus by 3:15 p.m. unless they are engaged in other school-related activities. After 3:20 p.m., Middle School students will be assigned to our Beyond the Bell program. Parents are charged a fee for this service. This program for Middle School students is held daily from 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. This supervised study program affords our students an opportunity to complete homework and work on research or computer projects. While it is not tutorial in nature, the teacher on duty is available for assistance. Please contact the Business Office for financial information regarding the program. All Middle School students must be directly supervised by an adult at all times when on campus before and after school. Extracurricular Activities Students may participate in a variety of after-school activities. Teams are selected for competitions held in forensics, geography and spelling. A book club called “Chat and Chew” is held periodically during lunch throughout the year. In addition, selected after-school clubs are available for Middle School students as a way of allowing students artistic, creative and exploratory activities here at the Academy rather than leaving campus to participate. Club meetings last for 1 – 2 hours, depending on the activity and the participation fees vary depending on the expense of activity materials. Some clubs last for most of a semester but others last 6-8 weeks and meet once a week. Information will be sent home regarding all after-school activities. Athletic activities are offered as well. Middle School students have the option of participating in intramural sports, which are offered seasonally. Students in seventh and eighth grades are able to participate on our school athletic teams. Information for all athletic teams is available on the school’s website. Dining Services SAGE Dining Services operates the school’s food services. Parents will have the opportunity for students to participate in a declining balance plan. In addition, cash may be used to purchase daily 10
lunch. Students not purchasing lunch will be permitted to purchase beverages and/or `a la carte items. A menu is posted on the school website to indicate lunch choices. Sixth and seventh graders are not allowed to purchase soft drinks in the cafeteria or bring them from home during the school day. Lunch Charges Only students who have come to school without lunch money may utilize the lunch charge system for emergency use. All charges must be repaid promptly. Periodic billing will take place through the Business Office when necessary. After three unpaid lunch charges, parental approval is required in order to issue another charge. School Counseling Services The Middle School Counselor oversees all guidance-related activities including classroom guidance lessons, group counseling, parent-teacher conferences, individual counseling and planning and implementing guidance programs. Parents are welcome to call or make an appointment with the Middle School Counselor about problems or concerns related to their child/children. Health Services One or two nurses are available at all times during school hours. The Student Medical Information Form, sent home in parent packets in August, must be completed and the medical consent form must be signed by a parent and returned to school for any medical assistance to be provided or for medication to be dispensed. Illnesses that occur during the school day will be reported to a parent if a student is unable to participate in normal classroom learning activities. Children who are ill should not be sent to school and must be picked up promptly when parents are called and asked to do so. Children who have been sick may not return to school until they have been fever-free and/or without upset stomach symptoms without medication for 24 hours. The Health Clinic is prepared to handle first-aid situations. All critical emergencies are reported through 911 to emergency medical personnel with the student transported to Sentara Obici Hospital. Parents are notified immediately to dictate further medical care. The school nurse must dispense all medications. Schedule II medications and all other prescription and non-prescription medications must be delivered, with the proper form(s), to the clinic by a parent of Middle School students. Middle School parents should contact the school nurses for detailed information regarding school health policies and the completion of the required forms. Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) Every parent is a member of the PTO. Participation on committees is voluntary and encouraged. The organization is active in sponsoring workshops and seminars for the school community, as well as providing volunteer assistance for many school projects. Library Media Center Students may use library materials to do research for class projects during a time scheduled by the teacher. Students may use the Library Media Center during the school day from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. when given permission by the teacher and librarian. Students are responsible for the proper 11
care and timely return of library books and will not be allowed to check out any further materials until the overdue items are returned or replacement payment is made. Lockers Lockers are provided for general student use in school corridors. Students will be using a gym bag to and from the gym daily. Students are responsible for their belongings. Lost and Found Please mark all personal belongings. This discourages unauthorized borrowing and permits return of found items. Articles that are found are turned in to the respective divisional school offices. The office staff makes every effort to return items that are marked. Parents are welcome to check the Lost and Found. All unclaimed articles are given to worthy causes at intervals throughout the school year. Parking Parents may park in available spaces and are discouraged from leaving vehicles unattended in the carpool loops and bus loading areas. Parents are requested to adhere to directional signs regarding parking on campus. Spirit Shop The school store, the Spirit Shop, is located in the Lower School building. Hours of operation will be posted or announced when scheduled. NSA gifts and attire are available for purchase. Student Council Organization (SCO) The SCO provides student leadership through elected representatives from each of the grades. There will be representatives from each grade level elected to serve on this committee. Projects include service to the school and community, social events for students and communication and cooperation with the Head of Middle School on issues related to student life. The SCO will meet monthly during lunch and participation is expected to include a yearlong commitment. Telephones/Cell Phones Students may use the Middle School Office phone with permission. Students are discouraged from calling to request that books, homework, projects, etc. left at home be brought to school by parents. Middle School students are encouraged to accept responsibility for items that were left at home. Health-related phone calls must be made from the Health Clinic. It is often very difficult to deliver telephone messages to students, especially in the afternoon. Please make every effort to confirm afternoon plans with your child before he/she leaves home in the morning. In the event that a change of plans is necessary, the school will make every effort to relay a message to your child/children. Cell phones are not to be used during the academic day. During the school day, cell phones must remain in the student’s backpack or locker and must be turned off. A teacher or administrator may take the cell phone from the student if the school rule is not being followed and referrals will be issued for not adhering to the school rule. The student may pick up the cell phone at the end of the school day. If there are repeated offenses regarding the use of cell phones, a parent will be contacted by an administrator.
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Bus Transportation Bus transportation is a privilege that may be withdrawn for inappropriate behavior. A student must ride the bus to which he or she is assigned. Any request for a change must be submitted in writing to the Director of Transportation. The bus driver is in charge of the bus and its occupants and students riding the bus must comply with the requests of the driver. Student behavior that may jeopardize the safety of others is strictly prohibited. The Head of Middle School will address unacceptable behavior that continues after correction is made by the bus driver and may involve parents as needed. Radios, glass containers and live animals are not permitted on the buses. Individual iPods are acceptable as long as earphones are being used. The school is not responsible for any personal belongings that are lost on the bus or at school. Carpool Transportation Carpool students should be delivered and picked up from the carpool area located on the west side of the Lower School building. Teachers are on duty from 7:55 a.m. until 8:10 a.m. to assist with arrivals and until 3:15 p.m. to assist with departures. Parents should pull forward as far as possible along the curb before discharging passengers. New this year, students will be discharged and picked up only in front of Lower School and NOT in front of Middle School. This will alleviate vehicles weaving in and out of the dropoff lane at multiple drop-off points. All students must be picked up at the Lower School Carpool entrance in the afternoons. In our effort to move many children quickly and safely, loading of students and their belongings is best done under the watchful eyes of staff members. Parents are encouraged to follow all directions given by staff members when using carpool for dropoff or pick-up. Parents desiring to park and walk a child into the building must park in the tennis courts area. Parking spaces in front of the Lower School are reserved for faculty and staff only. Right turns in front of the Lower School are permissible in the mornings and after the buses depart in the afternoons. All vehicles are expected to yield to bus traffic. Left turns onto Rt. 460 are prohibited from school except at the light at the Upper School entrance during carpool hours. Students are not permitted to walk to cars without parents. Students should not be dropped off in front of the Lower School in the mornings where buses unload and traffic turns right when exiting the carpool loop. This area becomes congested and could be unsafe for pedestrians.
EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENT BEHAVIOR
Code of Conduct All students at Nansemond-Suffolk Academy are expected to abide by the Code of Conduct. Students in the Middle School are expected to recite and/or write the Code of Conduct. 1. I will be truthful in word and deed. 2. I will not use profane, offensive or inappropriate language. 3. I will respect the rights, beliefs and property of others. 4. I will abide by school rules. 5. I will strive to be helpful and beneficial to all concerned. Honor Code The Nansemond-Suffolk Academy Honor Code is based upon the belief that the absence of lying, cheating and stealing is desirable within the school community in order to promote an atmosphere 13
of mutual trust. NSA students are entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining the Honor Code. It is up to each student to ensure that this trust is not abused. Article I: Student Statement As a responsible student at NSA, I understand that I must always be honest with others and myself. I will not lie, cheat or steal and will not accept these behaviors from others. I will always encourage and help my fellow students to adopt high standards. Article II: Pledge The following shall be written or understood on all written work: On my honor, I have not given nor received help on this assignment unless approved by my teacher. Article III: Explanation of Dishonorable Behaviors a. Cheating: involves using or attempting to use someone else’s work without the teacher’s permission. Allowing another student to use or attempt to use another’s work without permission or the unauthorized electronic transfer of material with computers or calculators is considered cheating. b. Lying: is creating or attempting to create a false impression intended to deceive. Lying to an administrator, teacher or member of the staff is considered a serious offense. c. Stealing: involves taking and withholding, or attempting to take, the property of another individual. This includes school and personal property. Article IV: Disciplinary Procedures Violations of the Honor Code will result in disciplinary action at the discretion of the Head of Middle School, the Middle School Counselor and the teacher. Parents will be notified. Student Responsibilities Each student at NSA is required to accept responsibility for his/her own conduct and, in so doing, accepts the responsibility for consequences of his/her choices. Disciplinary Procedures When rules are not followed or students are not responsible in making good choices, consequences will follow. Referrals are issued to a student not following school rules. Consequences may include lunchtime detention, loss of school privileges or after-school detention. Multiple infractions of school rules will result in a conference with the student, parent(s), the School Counselor and the Head of the Middle School. An accumulation of infractions may also result in a day of In-School Suspension and/or Out-of-School Suspension. Students may also be subject to a Status Review hearing. It is important that all members of the NSA community recognize that rules are created to insure the safety, well-being and protection of all. For the safety and well-being of all students, the following are strictly prohibited and will be dealt with by the administration: • Excessive rough play or fighting • Bullying, intimidation and/or any form of harassment 14
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Weapons of any type, including those intended for play Alcohol or illegal drugs
Technology Code of Ethics The use of technology at Nansemond-Suffolk Academy is an opportunity extended to students, faculty and staff to enhance learning, productivity and information processing. The computer hardware and software at NSA shall be used solely for educational purposes specified by the Academy. The Academy reserves the right to examine any material stored on the network or on any technology equipment. It is understood that all technology use is governed by the NSA Code of Conduct and the NSA Honor Code. Students are responsible for utilizing information technology only for educational purposes, including, but not limited to, the attainment of goals and objectives specified in the curriculum or otherwise indicated by teachers and administrators of the Academy. Students are expected to follow all instructions given by the NSA staff regarding use of technology. Students who fail to abide by the stated expectations may be banned from using NSA information technology. In addition, the Code of Conduct and the Honor Code also govern the use of any technology used by students during school hours and activities, on buses and on field trips. Inappropriate use of any type of technology, whether school-owned or owned by students, will be dealt with by the administration. Cafeteria Behavior 1. Students will sit at assigned tables by grade level. 2. Students are not permitted in any Lower, Middle or Upper School buildings or in the rest rooms or hall outside the Cafeteria during lunch without teacher permission. 3. Students are expected to display appropriate table manners and cafeteria etiquette during lunch and fulfill clean-up responsibilities. Manners Good manners always contribute to a positive environment. Students are reminded to: 1. Greet others in a cheerful manner and hold doors for those who follow. 2. Negative gestures are rude and never accompany a polite response. 3. Use polite terms such as “please, thank you, excuse me, I beg your pardon” when talking with members of the school community. 4. Shake hands firmly and engage the other person eye-to-eye. 5. Use chairs properly with legs and one’s feet firmly on the floor. 6. Use good table manners. 7. Refrain from unnecessary correction when others make mistakes.
ACADEMICS Curriculum Information and Policies Schedule: Each student is assigned an appropriate daily schedule with seven periods and an advisory time each morning. Daily Classes: Academic classes include: English, World Language, Math, Science and U. S. History (Part 2 in Sixth Grade) or World Geography (Part 1 in seventh grade and Part 2 in eighth grade). Band, chorus, art and physical education classes meet daily. Band: Participation in band requires a year’s commitment. Instruments may be rented and/or purchased through a local retailer. Students are required to fill out a weekly practice sheet and turn it into the Band Director. 15
Chorus: Students may choose to participate in chorus for the year. Art: Students may choose to participate in art for the year. Physical Education: Students dress daily in uniforms, which are provided to the students. Health education and family life will be taught in conjunction with physical education. Advisory Program: Each student will be assigned an advisor. The group meets briefly each morning and throughout the month for special activities and programs. The emphasis is on selfawareness, decision-making, responsibility, communication, group dynamics, study skills and peer relationships. The advisor serves as a liaison between the school and parents. Books and Materials: Some textbooks and consumable materials will be provided to students in sixth and seventh grades. Seventh graders are required to purchase a World Geography book that will be used again in eighth grade. All students are provided with a list of required personal school items. This list can also be found on the school website at www.nsacademy.org. Those items that are provided by the school and are lost or damaged during the school year must be replaced and/or paid for by the student. Extracurricular Activities: A varied selection of activities, including intramurals and clubs, is offered throughout the school year. Participation is voluntary and should include consideration of the student’s total schedule. Some after-school clubs involve a fee. Information regarding these activities will be made available to you. Homework: Students must use the assignment pad (Agenda) required by the school. Students are required to copy homework in each class and have the homework pad initialed by the teacher. Parents are asked to review the homework pad nightly and are encouraged to keep abreast of academic assignments. Consequences will result for repeated lack of preparation. Study assignments are considered to be homework. Teachers will provide information regarding where to find assignments posted online. Library Media Center: Middle School students may visit the Library Media Center to check out books on a regular basis with their classes as well as on an individual basis with a library pass. Students are responsible for the proper care and timely return of library materials. Overdue or lost items must be returned or paid before additional materials may be checked out. Additional library visits are scheduled for classroom assignments and research. Lockers: Each student is assigned a locker in which all personal belongs are expected to be kept. All articles of clothing and personal belongings must be labeled with the student’s name. Students are strictly prohibited from entering another student’s locker. Any violation constitutes an Honor Code offense. Grading/Report Cards It is our belief that the education of students can best be accomplished through a joint effort between home and school. Regular communication is a key ingredient to a successful academic year. Parents of Middle School students will be given information to use an online computerized grade reporting program, called NetClassroom, through which they can access their child’s grades and notes from teachers at any time from any computer having internet access. For returning NSA families, NetClassrom will replace Edline this year. Instructions on how to access NetClassroom will be emailed to your family @nsacademy.org email account before the beginning of school. Grades will be updated weekly and parents will receive an email message alerting them to updates. Students will receive report cards every twelve weeks. Report cards will indicate progress in academics, work habits and social skills. Parents may keep the computerized report card but the accompanying cover sheet must be signed and returned promptly (within five school days) to the advisor.
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Grading Scale Numerical Scale 100-97 96-93 92-90 89-87 86-83 82-80 79-77 76-73 72-70 69-67 66-63 62-60 Any grade 59 or below
Letter Grade A+ A AB+ B BC+ C CD+ D DF
Academic Recognition High Honors: Students who earn all A+’s and A’s (100 - 93) during the grading period will receive High Honors and recognition for their academic achievement. Merit Roll: Students who earn all A’s, B+’s, and B’s (100-83) during the grading period will receive Merit Roll and recognition for their academic achievement. Homework Independent work is a valuable part of the total program in that it serves to reinforce, expand or enrich classroom instruction. Amounts of homework are dependent upon the child’s needs and instructional level. Homework is to be completed accurately, thoroughly and promptly. Parents should notify the teacher or appropriate counselor if excessive time is required. Habitual failure to complete homework may result in academic penalty. Promotion Policy Middle School students who fail any two academic subjects will not be promoted to the next grade level. Any student receiving an overall average of 69 or below in either Math, English or a World Language course in the Middle School must successfully complete a pre-approved summer school program or fifty hours of tutoring by a school-approved tutor to achieve promotion. Readmission Policy Any student who leaves the school for any reason, including but not limited to failure or dismissal, must reapply and successfully complete the full admissions procedure before being considered for readmission. Readmission is not guaranteed.
ATHLETICS Athletics are an integral part of student life at NSA. NSA believes that an educational curriculum should create sound bodies as well as sound minds. Through the athletic program and physical education classes, NSA develops students who are prepared for healthy competition and academic 17
performance. The correlation between a physically fit body and outstanding academic performance has been demonstrated in research. NSA provides both opportunities. NSA Athletics brings together the student body. The Academy has a diverse population that comes from a widespread area. Our athletic teams provide unity with students, parents, coaches and faculty joining together in support of our teams. Students in Middle School are offered after-school intramural athletic opportunities as well as Junior Junior Varsity, Junior Varsity and Varsity sport opportunities. Seasonal sign-ups will be held for intramurals and team sports. Intramural sports may include tennis (boys and girls), co-ed softball, football (boys), field hockey/lacrosse (girls), basketball (boys and girls) and co-ed volleyball, dependent on the availability of coaches and field/gym space. Detailed Athletics Handbook information can be found on the school website under the “Athletics” tab.
PARENT INFORMATION
Class Parties Parties are scheduled for specific dates and grades. Students are requested not to hand out an invitation to their own birthday parties outside of school during the day at school unless invitations are given to all classmates. This will help to avoid hurt feelings. Communication Effective communication is essential to the success and well-being of all students. Teachers communicate with parents through report cards, online grading reports, emails and telephone calls about more specific matters. When a teacher sends a note or desires a conference, it is not necessarily an indication of a serious problem. Often, attending to minor situations can avoid future problems. Parents are asked to communicate any problems or concerns to the teacher. In addition, the Head of Middle School and the Middle School Counselor welcome any opportunity to assist in ensuring a positive educational experience for each child. Field Trips Activities off-campus are scheduled when they are an appropriate extension of classroom instruction. Parents will be notified of any such field trips in advance. Field trip expenses are covered in the student’s Activity Fee. Parent Conferences Parents are welcomed and encouraged to schedule an appointment to meet with a teacher(s). It is helpful to arrange appointments in advance, as it is difficult to talk with parents while children are arriving or leaving school. Conferences may also be scheduled at any time throughout the school year. Please contact, Tracy Grady, Middle School Counselor, to schedule a conference.
EMERGENCY CLOSINGS Basic Procedures In the event of an emergency closing the following will be considered standard policy: 1. Every attempt will be made not to close until 12:00 noon once school is in session for the day. 18
2. Announcements will be made on radio and TV stations immediately (WTKR, WAVY, WVEC, WTAR). 3. Email will be sent from the school to each family’s @nsacademy.org email address. It is the family’s responsibility to forward this account to another preferred email account if the @nsacademy.org school account is not frequently checked. 4. In the event of closing for bad weather before school opens: a. an announcement will be made on the above stations by 6:45 a.m. b. an email will be sent to your family’s @nsacademy.org account by the school’s administration c. information will be posted on the school’s website
FUNDRAISING AND MARKETING POLICY
The Nansemond-Suffolk Academy Annual Fund is an important element in the school's operating budget that supports the mission of the school and is the key component to the school’s continued growth and success. In an effort to ensure that the Annual Fund receives top priority in the school’s fundraising efforts, to avoid conflicting fundraising practices and to standardize the look of all of NSA’s printed and branded materials, the Board of Trustees adopted a Fundraising and Marketing Policy in 2006. Any fundraising, marketing or special advertising activity sponsored by a Nansemond-Suffolk Academy club, class, athletic team, parent or alumni group must be approved in advance by the appropriate Division Head, Director of Athletics and the Office of Advancement. All items (baseball caps, tee shirts, uniforms, literature, invitations, handbooks, pamphlets, etc.) featuring the name, initials or logo of Nansemond-Suffolk Academy must be approved by the Office of Advancement prior to the order being placed. Applications for fundraising activities or marketing requests are to be completed at least two weeks in advance for each activity and must be filed on an annual basis, including previous or recurring events, with the Director of Advancement before solicitation commences or orders for printing of materials are placed. To receive a list of official NSA approved colors and logos or to obtain a copy of the Fundraising, Marketing and Advertising Request Form, please contact the Office of Advancement at 539-8789 x3234.
SECURITY CAMERA POLICY
Nansemond-Suffolk Academy has an obligation to provide a safe environment for faculty, staff, students and visitors. Nansemond-Suffolk Academy supports the use of video surveillance to promote the safety and security of students and staff, the protection of school property, deterrence and prevention of criminal activities and the enforcement of school rules. Camera Location, Operation and Control • The security camera system is installed in public areas only. These areas may include grounds, athletic areas, exterior entrances or exits to school buildings and large gathering spaces such as classroom corridors, cafeteria, lobby and main entries. 19
Use of Video Recordings • The Head of School or his/her designee shall oversee video surveillance. • The security camera system will be in operation and may be monitored by school personnel throughout the year. • Video recordings of actions by students may be used by administrators as evidence in any disciplinary action brought against students arising out of the student's conduct in or about Nansemond-Suffolk Academy property. • In compliance with the law, recorded information will be available for use as necessary by appropriate school officials and/or law enforcement personnel. • Information obtained through video surveillance may only be used for disciplinary investigations, security or law enforcement purposes. Data Storage • All video recordings are stored in a secure place to avoid tampering and ensure confidentiality in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. • The Office of Technology shall be responsible for maintaining cameras, monitors, storage, computers used to store images and computer diskettes. • Any video recordings used for security purposes in school buildings or grounds are the sole property of Nansemond-Suffolk Academy. Release of such videos will be made only as permissible pursuant to applicable law and with the permission of the Head of School or his/her designee. Notification • All staff, students and parents shall be made aware of the video surveillance guidelines and practices. • Appropriate signage will be posted at major entrances to school buildings that notify students, staff and the general public of the schools use of security cameras. Students and staff will receive additional notification at the beginning of the school year regarding the use of security cameras in the schools and on school grounds.
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