Chisago Lakes Middle School 2023 - 2024 - Student Handbook Chisago Lakes School District Mission Statement: Learning for All. Engage. Educate. Empower. Our “High 5” — Across our school building, all students and staff are expected to follow these five expectations, which make Chisago Lakes Middle School a safe and supportive community for all. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
High 5 Learning Targets: RESPECT: I can treat myself, others, and the school with care RESPONSIBILITY: I can be prepared and stay on track COMPASSION: I can be welcoming, supportive, and cooperative COMMITMENT: I can be engaged and give my best effort INTEGRITY: I can be honest and own my actions
Components of Exemplary Middle Schools: Research of effective schools has shown that critical program components, designed to work together in an integrated format, produce the most positive results. In light of recommendations made based upon research from the National Middle School Association, the following components are generally recognized by educators, associations, foundations, state boards of education, and researchers as characteristics of exemplary middle schools: ADVISEMENT - 40 MINUTES PER WEEK - FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK - 7TH PERIOD Advisement consists of a group of students assigned to a grade level teacher for 40 minutes per week. The mission of this program is to advocate for a specific group of students, by making personal connections and providing academic and social support. The purpose of this program is to create a positive school environment where each student learns to develop and display positive character traits. The goals of this program are to: 1. Create opportunities for students to discover what is unique about themselves and about others so that they might come to better appreciate, respect, and make the most of the many differences among people. 2. Help students understand themselves better as learners and, thereby, to cope better with academic concerns and to set goals toward a satisfying and engaging year. 3. Create meaningful opportunities for students to contribute to CLMS and the community, as well as to celebrate those contributions. 4. Promote critical thinking and the making of responsible choices through discussion, problem posing and problem solving. 5. Develop a variety of skills which enhance effective communication. 6. Create meaningful opportunities for students to engage in shared decision making in ways that: build self-esteem, increase students’ acceptance of responsibility for their own actions, and cultivate personal integrity. 7. Develop an understanding of the “High 5” school-wide expectations of Respect, Responsibility, Compassion, Commitment, and Integrity and how they provide a framework for students during adolescence. We believe that these specific values, when honored in a firm and consistent fashion, will promote a school climate which supports learning to the greatest degree possible. We strongly believe that students have the right to be treated with respect and to participate in their learning environment without unnecessary distractions. 8. Build community and a positive school climate. Create opportunities for students to make personal connections, learning about each other and enhancing a sense of belonging. Celebrate success by individual students and groups of students. Create meaningful opportunities for students to contribute to CLMS and the community, as well as to celebrate those contributions. 9. Develop social-emotional life skills in the areas of: a. Self-Awareness: Help students understand themselves better as learners and, thereby, to cope better with academic concerns and to set goals toward a satisfying and engaging year. b. Self-Management: Helps students develop skills necessary to achieve goals, stay organized, keep a cool head in a stressful situation, and show self-control and self-discipline. c. Social Awareness: Help students practice perspective taking and putting themselves in another person’s shoes. Create opportunities for students to discover what is unique about themselves and about others so that they might come to better appreciate, respect, and make the most of the many differences among people.
d. Relationship Skills: Develop a variety of skills which enhance effective communication and teamwork. e. Responsible Decision Making: Promote critical thinking and the making of responsible choices through discussion, problem posing and problem solving. Create meaningful opportunities for students to engage in shared decision making in ways that: build self-esteem, increase students’ acceptance of responsibility for their own actions, and cultivate personal integrity. 10. Prevent bullying and promote digital citizenship. In the process of building the life skills listed above, we explicitly address how to prevent and respond to bullying behavior. We also help students to extend their life skills and positive character traits into the digital space. FOOD SERVICE The main school lunches are free of charge next year in accordance with Minnesota state food service regulations. However, students will still need to swipe their students identification card each lunch period to receive lunch. Accounts Each student is assigned a personal barcode number that is used to access their individual account. Students use the same barcode number each year. Additional items outside of the reimbursable meal can be purchased as follows: Megas (second entree) is $2.00; milk is $.50; a la carte options vary with prices. For security purposes and to meet with federal and state guidelines, students are not permitted to use another student’s account. Balances remain on account and follow the student to the next school year. Low Balances and Charging Cashiers will provide a verbal notice at the cash register when the balance is low. Parents will be notified by phone when a student’s balance is low via an automatic calling system. Students will be allowed to charge an extra meal (mega) if they forget their payments, but will be expected to keep their account current. Prepayment for Meals It is preferred that one check be written for each student’s lunch account. However, if more than one child in a family attends the same school, one check may be written. Please indicate the child’s name and grade on the check. Indicate the amount that goes into each account. If you have students in several buildings and prefer to write one check for all the students, please send a check with any student, and indicate each student’s name, grade and school they attend, as well as the amount that goes into each account. PAMS (Parent Account Management System) This system will allow you to pre-pay with a Visa, MasterCard, Discover, electronic check or debit card online: www.PayPAMS.com. It also allows you to access meal account activity and balance information online. There is a fee for this service for each transaction of $2.40. Call the Food Service Office at 651-213-2025 with questions regarding this service. Parents also have the ability to monitor and block certain purchases such as a la carte items. Free/Reduced Price Meal Benefits Families must complete a new application each school year. An application form is mailed to all households in August. A completed application must be sent to the Food Service Dept or dropped off at the Principal’s office and it will be forwarded to the Food Service office. Benefits may be applied for anytime during the school year. Notification of the status of an application will be mailed. Menus The school’s breakfast and lunch menus are available on the school district’s website: www.isd2144.org and also on NutriSlice at https://isd2144.nutrislice.com or the NutriSlice app. Copies will be available in the office for those that do not have access to the internet. Meals All menus and portions are planned to meet the Meal Pattern Requirements established by the USDA. The Breakfast Program offers students a complete breakfast every morning before school begins. The Lunch Program is designed to provide one-third of a student’s minimum daily nutritional requirements. Fresh fruits and/or vegetables are offered each day. Bread items contain whole grains. Lactose reduced milk is offered to students whose parents submit a written request. These requests must be updated each school year. Please call the Food Service Department at 651-213-2506 with any questions or concerns you have regarding the program.
Peanut Aware Please refer to the Food Service Department allergen statement regarding our peanut aware procedures: Peanut Aware Information In an effort to reduce the risk for an allergic reaction, Chisago Lakes Food Service will offer only menu and snack items that do not contain peanut or tree nut products. FLEXIBLE LEARNING TIME: 4 - 40 minute blocks per week. Some blocks are divided into shorter intervention times. These will be held 7th hour each day. OLWEUS BULLYING PREVENTION PROGRAM Statement of Intent: We are committed to providing a safe environment so students can learn in a relaxed, secure atmosphere. Bullying of any kind is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. When reported to an adult, bullying will be addressed promptly. What is bullying? Bullying is any written or verbal expression, physical act or gesture, or pattern thereof, by a student that is intended to cause or is perceived as causing distress to one or more students and which substantially interferes with students’ educational benefits, opportunities, or performance. Bullying can be: 1. Emotional: being unfriendly, excluding, tormenting (e.g. hiding books, threatening gestures) 2. Physical: pushing, kicking, hitting, punching or any use of violence 3. Racial: taunts, graffiti, gestures 4. Sexual: unwanted physical contact or sexually inappropriate comments 5. Verbal: name-calling, sarcasm, rumors, teasing 6. Cyber: threats or harassment by text, instant messaging, emails, website postings, digital pictures, etc. Why is it important to respond to bullying? Bullying hurts. No one deserves to be a victim of bullying and everybody has the right to be treated with respect. Procedures: 1. Report bullying incidents a. to staff and/or administration. b. by using the confidential bullying report form (Pink Stop Sign) on the CLMS web page or email the Associate Principal at jgillach@isd2144.org c. Students may also report concerning or illegal activity in a confidential manner through the See Something, Say Something link on the CLMS web page or email the Associate Principal at jgillach@isd2144.org or the Principal at twarzecha@isd2144.org 2. Parents of students involved will be informed 3. If necessary and appropriate, police will be involved 4. The bullying behavior will be investigated immediately 5. An attempt will be made to help the bully (bullies) change their behavior Consequences for bullying may include: Immediate removal from class and, if necessary police contact, parent/guardian notification, verbal/written warning, peer mediation, student/parent meeting, loss of privileges, lunch/after-school detention, behavior contract, schedule modifications, suspension, and expulsion. VARIED INSTRUCTION Instruction includes (1) integrating learning experiences and focusing upon real life issues relevant to the student, (2) actively engaging students in solving problems and accommodating individual differences, (3) emphasizing collaboration, cooperation and community, and (4) seeking to develop good people, caring for others, democratic values and moral sensitivity. Some of the more common programs include cooperative learning, hands-on and student-centered activities; use of flexible scheduling and positive evaluations. Learning tasks are developmentally appropriate and adapted to individual differences. TRANSITION PROGRAMS These programs focus on creating a smooth transition between schools for students. A transition plan allows students to acclimate themselves to the building and staff before the first day of school. As important as the change and transition for 5th grade students (and new students) into middle school is, there also exists a need for a smooth transition for 8th grade students going to Chisago Lakes High school. Various activities are planned each year to help students acclimate themselves to the building, such as a transition day for 5th grade prior to the end of the school year in addition to orientation in the fall.
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ADMINISTRATIVE INVESTIGATIONS Students must cooperate with administrative investigations. Students caught attempting to mislead or withhold information from administration may be subject to disciplinary action. (see Tennessen Warning p.16) ALLERGY AWARENESS Chisago Lakes Middle School is an allergy aware school. As such, the school staff will work to proactively address known student allergic conditions and attempt to minimize the potential for adverse reactions to identified allergens that may be present from time-to-time in the public school environment. Recognizing that literally hundreds of students attend CLMS on a daily basis, we cannot guarantee that the school will be free of potential allergens. However, when staff is informed of your student's specific allergy, strategies and procedures will be implemented with the goal of reducing the risk of exposure. CLMS is a “peanut safe” school. All items served/offered by CL food service are “peanut safe”. ASSESSMENTS Opting out of Assessments If you wish to opt your child out of state assessments (MCA Assessments) please complete the Parent/Guardian Refusal for Student Participation in Statewide Assessments on the District Website in the Curriculum & Instruction Section, under District Assessments. Submit the completed form to Mrs. Tinjum in the main office. If you wish to opt your child out of local/District assessments (Oral Reading Fluency, aFast, and other General Outcome Measures), please email Mrs. Tinjum at mtinjum@isd2144.org. Please include your child’s name, grade, and assessment you wish to opt them out of. ATTENDANCE Absence From School In the Chisago Lakes District we believe that school attendance matters. Attendance at school correlates directly to higher academic achievement. Our new district-wide motto is Be Here #School Matters. Please inform the school by email (msattendance@isd2144.org) or by telephone (651-213-2411) when calling a student in absent. An absence not excused by note, telephone call or email WITHIN 3 SCHOOL DAYS of the absence will be recorded as unexcused. The following reasons are examples which are recognized by the school as legitimate excused absences: parent/doctor verified illness, family emergencies, scheduled appointments, religious holidays, school directed activities, pre-arranged family vacations, suspension, discipline issues, court appearances, exceptional circumstances, or weather. The following are unacceptable reasons for absence and are considered unexcused absences: car trouble, overslept, shopping, needed at home, family vacation (not prearranged), leaving school during regular school day without proper approval, babysitting, staying home to watch a sibling or parent, missed bus, work, no call or note verifying absence, personal (no reason given), truancy or other as determined on a case by case basis. The following attendance procedures for Chisago County Schools were developed in collaboration with Chisago County Health & Human Services, the Chisago County Attorney and school administrators. The mission of the following procedures are to increase attendance, improve academic achievement, decrease the number of referrals for Juvenile Court intervention and provide supervision and services based upon the individual needs of the student and their family. 1. All absences from school must be verified by a parent/guardian through writing an excuse, placing a telephone call (651-213-2411) or emailing (msattendance@isd2144.org) the attendance secretary. 2. If a student has been absent without an excuse for three or more partial or full days, a letter may be sent by school officials regarding truancy. 3. If a student continues to be absent without an excuse for seven or more partial or full days, a referral will be made to the Chisago County Attorney’s Office. 4. Excessive excused absences can be defined as 3 or more consecutive days of absence, 4 or more days of absence in a month, 10 or more days of absence in a school year. When students have excessive absences due to health reasons, they may be referred to a licensed school nurse for follow up. School officials will notify parents by mail or email regarding excessive absences; including vacation, illness or funeral. A doctor’s note may be mandated for absences. 5. An automated phone call home will be sent at 9:20am and 6:00pm to alert parents/guardians if students have missed 1 or more class periods in a school day.
6. Also in accordance to State Statute 126C.05, Subd. 8 a student needs to be withdrawn after 15 consecutive days absent, regardless of whether these absences are excused or unexcused. Tardy Policy (Tardies accumulate per quarter/term.) Students tardy to class will be marked tardy and informed by their teacher. 1. Ten tardies will result in a lunch detention and a meeting with a school truancy coordinator. 2. Fifteen tardies will result in a disciplinary referral and an after school detention (2:20 - 3:20 p.m). 3. Twenty tardies will result in a disciplinary referral, a lunch detention and an after school detention. Letter will be sent home to parents as well referring to the AIM referral at 30 if this issue of tardiness continues. 4. Twenty-five tardies will result in a disciplinary referral, one week of lunch detention and a meeting with administration and a parent. 5. Thirty tardies will result in discipline as determined by the administration and may include a referral to the Attendance Intervention Meeting (AIM) held at the Chisago County government center each month. Tips for Arriving to Class on Time ● Plan your passing time. ● Try scheduling your passing time so you don’t have to go to your locker after each class. ● Use the closest bathroom to your class either before or during class when given permission from CLMS staff. ● Try to spread out your locker and bathroom stops throughout the day. ● Interactions/discussions with classmates should conclude one minute prior to the bell for class. ● When planning, look to arrive 30 - 60 seconds early for class Homework Requests Are you going to be gone? Check with your teacher prior to your absence. Google Classroom is also a great place to find the work you are missing. Email your teacher and/or the attendance desk to help you with these matters. (651-213-2411 or msattendance@isd2144.org) Attendance Perfect Attendance is awarded to students at the end of each term. Perfect attendance is defined as: present at school every hour of every day and on time to every class (no tardies). Students are mailed a letter, receive an ala-carte coupon and are recognized in the Principal’s newsletter. Signing In and Out The school is responsible for knowing where students are at all times during the school day. If arriving late or leaving early, students must sign in/out at the attendance window. If a student needs to leave school early, a note signed by a parent/guardian must be taken to the attendance window prior to the start of the day. The written excuse should include the student’s first and last name, grade, reason and time for leaving. Vacations Due to the number of breaks within a school year, please make every attempt to plan family vacations that coincide with the school calendar. If a vacation is unavoidable during school hours, a note written by a parent/guardian should be sent to the Attendance Office. Backpacks, purses and coat The use of backpacks, purses, and coats are limited to before school and after school. If any of these items are brought into the classroom, students will be asked to put the items in their locker. BEHAVIOR PROCESSING At times, students make mistakes. At Chisago Lakes Middle School, we aim to learn from our mistakes to do better in the future. When students have a minor rule violation, students will be sent to the Behavior Processing Room to reflect on their behavior, how it impacts others, and how to handle a similar situation in the future. When students process a behavior, they will sign a “behavior contract” committing to not earning another referral for that behavior for five school days. If a student breaks their contract, they will have one hour of individualized instruction. Consequences for accumulated behavior contracts are as follows: 1. 5 contracts = 1 day lunch detention 2. 10 contacts = 2 days lunch detention 3. 15 contracts = 3 days lunch detention
4. 20+ contracts = admin/case manager decision BEVERAGES/ALA-CARTE ITEMS No candy, snacks, food, pop or other non-water beverages are allowed outside of the cafeteria. BIKES Riding bikes to school is not recommended due to the high volume of traffic on HWY 8 and in the parking lots. However, students may ride their bike to school as long as: 1. Bikes are properly parked and locked in the bike rack located in the front of the building. 2. Bikes are not used at any time during the school day (i.e. lunchtime). 3. Students follow safety procedures in riding to and from school. 4. Bike riders will not be allowed to leave after school until the parking lot has cleared of heavy traffic and buses have left the loading area. Bikes should be walked on school grounds until they reach the path. BUILDING HOURS The building opens at 7:00 a.m. After arriving, students may not leave until the end of the school day. At the end of the school day, students must not linger in hallways past 2:30 p.m. unless they are directly supervised by a teacher, coach, or advisor. Students staying after school must remain in the media center until their transportation arrives. BUS TRANSPORTATION Riding the school bus is a privilege. Improper conduct will result in that privilege being denied. Students are required to ride their assigned bus and board/exit the bus at assigned stops. Bus passes will not be permitted. Please coordinate alternate transportation for your student. In case of an emergency, please contact Mrs. Daugs or Mrs. Gorski in the main office at 651-213-2400 or by email at cdaugs@isd2144.org or cgorski@isd2144.org. Consequences for school bus misconduct apply to regular routes, field trips and extracurricular activity trips. Decisions regarding a student’s ability to ride the bus will be at the sole discretion of the school district. Consequences will be assigned on a case by case basis; however, a general continuum is provided below: ● ● ● ● ● ●
1st Offense: Written warning, CLMS behavioral staff meets with student, bus garage contacts parents, and bus misconduct is emailed to parent/guardian 2nd Offense: Written warning, 1 day of lunch detention assigned, administrator meets with student and contacts parent, bus misconduct is emailed to parent/guardian 3rd Offense: Administrator meets with student and contacts parent, student is suspended from riding the school bus for three days, and bus misconduct is emailed to parent/guardian 4th Offense: Administrator meets with student and contacts parent, student is suspended from riding the school bus for 10 school days, parent meeting held with administrator prior to student rejoining the bus, bus misconduct is emailed to parent/guardian 5th Offense: Administrator meets with student and contacts parent, student is suspended from riding the school bus for 20 school days, parent meeting held with administrator prior to student rejoining the bus, bus misconduct is emailed to parent/guardian 6th Offense: Consequence will be determined by administrator in coordination with Chisago Lakes Bus Service
CAFETERIA 1. All classroom materials must be placed in the green cubbies located outside the multi-purpose gym entrance. 2. Students must pick-up their eating area when they have finished. 3. All students are assigned multiple days of cafeteria clean-up to demonstrate responsibility and commitment to helping keep our school clean. 4. Students must stack their lunch trays when returning it to the dish drop. 5. Students may not purchase ala-carte until they have stacked their tray and cleaned their eating area. 6. Ala-Carte items may be purchased during lunch, but must be consumed in the cafeteria before the lunch period is over. 7. If a student needs to use the restroom, they may do so by asking a staff member at the entrance of the
multipurpose gym. Locker passes will not be issued. 8. Assigned seating, cafeteria cleaning duty, or lunch detention may be assigned for misconduct in the cafeteria or gym areas. CELL PHONE Pending school board approval: The middle school administration recognizes that many families rely on student cell phones for communication purposes. In an attempt to reduce distractions at school, students will not be allowed to use cell phones during the school day (i.e calling, texting, internet, social networking, etc.) Students may appropriately use cell phones before 7:40 a.m. and after 2:20 p.m. in the school building. Cell phones should be turned off and stored in students lockers, or backpacks located in their lockers, throughout the school day. In addition, music players, electronic games, laser pens, or other electronic devices are not permitted to be used during the school day. The school bears no responsibility if electronic devices (cell phones) are lost, stolen, or damaged anywhere on school property. The use of electronic devices that disrupts the classroom will lead to disciplinary action. Electronic devices unclaimed by July 1 will be donated to a charitable organization. PICTURES OR VIDEOS At no time are students allowed to take pictures with personal cameras, cell phones, or any other recording devices due to student data privacy issues. The recording, posting, and sharing of videos, or pictures,promoting negative behavior will result in disciplinary actions. DANCES Dances are designed to provide social and recreational activities for students. Dance Expectations are as follows: 1. Students must not sell or give their wristband to another student. 2. Students assigned to ISS or OSS all or part of the day will not be allowed to attend. 3. Only CLMS students may attend school dances. 4. Due to space, only 500 tickets are available and tickets will not be sold at the door. 5. Parents/Guardians must arrange for a ride for their student immediately following the dance 6. Students attending the dance will not be permitted to leave until it ends 7. Parents/Guardians will not be permitted in the building until the dance ends unless they are volunteering at the dance.. 8. All school rules are in effect; students violating school rules may be required to leave the dance early or be prohibited from attending dances in the future. ***The hours of dances are under review at the time this handbook went to print.*** DETENTION Detention will be assigned for infractions of school rules. Students are assigned detention in advance so they can make arrangements for transportation home. After school detention is held on Monday - Thursday from 2:20 pm 3:20pm. Students must bring work to do with them and remain in their assigned seat until the supervisor dismisses them. Students who do not attend the assigned detention may be assigned additional detention or suspension time. DIRECTORY INFORMATION Directory information is public unless a request has been received from a parent that certain designated directory information items are not to be disclosed without their prior written consent. Please contact the district office at 651-213-2000 should you wish to complete a nondisclosure of information form. DRESS AND APPEARANCE The Chisago Lakes Middle School wants all students to be treated equitably regardless of gender/gender identification, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, body type/size, religion, and personal style. We encourage students to take pride in their attire as it relates to the school setting and dress appropriately to limit their distraction from learning and others. Students should dress in a manner that, in addition to the following guidelines, takes into consideration the educational environment, safety, and health of self and others. Basic Principle: Certain body parts must be covered for all students. Clothes must be worn in a way such that genitalia, buttocks, and chest are covered with opaque material. All items listed in the “must wear” categories below must meet this basic principle.
Students Must Wear • Shirt • Bottom: pants/sweatpants/shorts/skirt/dress/leggings • Shoes: activity-specific shoe requirements are permitted (for example for physical education class) Examples of Items Students Cannot Wear: This list is not all-inclusive. Final decisions on dress code will be made by the staff & building administration. • Hoods • Violent language or images. • Images or language depicting drugs, alcohol, or sexual content. • Costumes, capes, or props. • Hate speech, profanity, pornography. • Images or language that creates a hostile or intimidating environment based on any protected class. • Visible underwear. Visible waistbands or straps on undergarments worn under other clothing are not a violation. • Bathing suits. • Going barefoot, wearing slippers, or wearing pajamas is not allowed. • Helmets, sun glasses, or headgear that obscures the face (except as a religious observance). ELEVATOR Any student who is physically disabled may, upon approval from the health office, use the elevator. Student helpers are NOT allowed to ride in the elevator with the student they are assisting. EMERGENCY DRILLS Five fire drills, five lockdown drills and one tornado drill will be conducted each school year. It is important for students to take these drills seriously and know the procedure to follow in case of an emergency. Exit routes and emergency procedures are posted in each room. Warning: It is illegal to falsely report a fire or other emergency alarm. This includes pulling a fire alarm lever or calling 911. If an alarm is accidentally set off, report it to the office immediately. Anyone intentionally setting off a false alarm or calling 911 will be reported to the authorities and appropriate action will be taken. EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Before competing in an extracurricular activity, students are required to complete the following: 1. Medical Physical (once every three years) 2. Parental Permission Form (one per year) 3. Eligibility Form (one per year) 4. Pay appropriate fee Registration for the following 7th and 8th grade activities will take place one week prior to the start of the activity. Sign up is available before and after school on the activity bulletin board located outside the main office. Season
Boys
Fall
Girls
Both
Volleyball
Cross Country*
Swimming*
Soccer*
Tennis* Dance* Winter
Wrestling*
Competitive Dance*
School Play
Swimming*
Gymnastics*
Alpine Skiing*
Hockey - 9-12
Hockey* 7-12
Basketball
Spring
Tennis*
Golf* Track*
Lacrosse
Lacrosse*
*Shared program with High School Athletic Fees: ● 7th & 8th Grade Activities (volleyball, football and basketball) - $125.00 ● All Activities Shared with the High School (*) - $205.00 ● Hockey-$350.00 ● School Play-$75.00 Eligibility Guidelines for Activities Student's’ first responsibility is the completion of their homework; involvement in extracurricular activities must be secondary. If students are having behavioral or academic challenges, their involvement in activities will be limited. Students who are assigned in-school or out-of-school suspension are not allowed to participate in extracurricular activities that day; this includes athletic competitions. Students must maintain passing grades to participate in extracurricular activities; grades are checked weekly by administration. Attendance A student must be in school by 11:17 a.m (by the end of 4th period) in order to practice or play in an event. Alcohol-Tobacco-Drugs-Sexual Harassment Refer to Minnesota State High School League Suspension Policies. Medical Exclusions When a student is unable to participate safely due to a medical issue such as an illness or injury, the student may be excused with a note from a parent/guardian for a maximum of two days. Any medical exclusion longer than two days must be approved with a note from a physician. Also, reinstatement to practice after being out more than two days must be accompanied by a note from a physician. If a student is too sick or injured to participate in physical education class, the student is ineligible to practice or play in a contest that day. Transportation Students involved in activities are required to ride school transportation to and from an event unless prior notification is given to the coach or advisor. Students must be picked up immediately following a practice or event. FOOD/TREATS Chisago Lakes Area Schools require that food, which is served in school, be commercially prepared. Therefore, we don’t allow the distribution of items prepared in individual homes. Food treats must be commercially prepared, and PEANUT SAFE. FUNDRAISERS Fundraisers that are part of the school program may be carried out during the school day. Students selling candy, raffle tickets, or other items to benefit community activities must conduct those activities outside of the school day. The school is not responsible for items or money brought to school. GRADING FOR LEARNING Purpose of Grading: The purpose of grading at Chisago Lakes Middle School is to communicate achievement, based on standards, and academic skills. Rationale: Chisago Lakes Middle School recognizes that grading, homework, make-up opportunities, report cards and reporting practices in general should be consistent, accurate, fair, meaningful, research-based, and connected to state and national standards.
Academic Grade: Academic grades will reflect achievement. Formative and Summative Assessments are used to determine this grade. Practice (formative assessments-assessment for learning) - Practice, such as, class work and assignments, is designed to provide direction for improvement and/or adjustment to curriculum for an individual student or for a whole class and account for 40% of this grade. Students are expected to complete assigned practice. ● ●
Classwork: notes, daily participation, study guides, bell work Assignments: worksheets, textbook assignments, journals, reading logs and writings
Assessment (summative assessments-assessment of learning) - Assessments are designed to provide information to be used in making judgments about a student’s achievement at the end of a chapter/unit and account for 60% of this grade. ●
Assessments: tests, quizzes, final papers, projects, presentations, labs and performances
Both formative and summative work will be evaluated. However, summative assessments will be scored at 60% of the Academic grade; whereas, formative practice will be scored at 40% of the Academic grade. Practice and assessments are weighted differently in order to provide an accurate measure of what a student has learned; a grade needs to be based primarily on work that was scored after the student had sufficient instruction and practice. Therefore, assessments are weighted more heavily. It would not be fair to weigh practices as heavily as assessments because during this time a student is learning the content, and it is reasonable to expect that they will make mistakes. What is expected of teachers: ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
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Students and their parents will be provided with information regarding grading practices. Academic grades will reflect student academic achievement based on standards and skills. Grading will not be used for disciplinary purposes. Parents will be informed quarterly of their child’s achievement. Teachers will send out weekly progress reports on the first day of the school week. Teachers will update ParentVue weekly so parents can access academic information. Students will be taught how to utilize their StudentVue accounts and access teacher’s homework calendars during Advisement. In order to receive full credit, all late work must be submitted prior to the end of the current chapter/unit summative assessment. If late work is not submitted prior to the current chapter/unit assessment it will result in no credit (“X”= 0 points). Teacher discretion may be used to allow credit past the deadline. Missing work will be reflected in the grade book as an “M”. Late work will be graded and recorded when time allows. Students will have the opportunity to retake assessments if all of their practice work is sufficiently completed prior to the retest or assessment. Additional practice work may be required upon teacher discretion. Retakes must be initiated by the student, pre arranged and done so within the timeline established by the teacher. Students will receive the highest of the two assessment scores. Teachers will not offer extra credit. Academic dishonesty will be addressed with behavioral consequences. Administration will work with the teacher, student and parent/guardian to reassess and determine the actual level of achievement. When possible, the reassessment may be given the same day. Attendance will not be considered when determining an Academic grade. Scores on group projects will have minimal impact on a student’s overall Academic grade. Group projects should have an individual score included as part of the assessment. Grades will be assigned based on a student’s performance on preset standards, not on achievement compared to other students.
HALL PASSES Hall passes will not be allowed during the first 10 minutes of class. After the 10 minutes, students may request to use a bathroom pass. Students must fill out an electronic pass with them when leaving a classroom. Students in the hallway without a valid hallway pass may be issued a stop-and-think ticket or a discipline referral. HARASSMENT/VIOLENCE The district believes that all adults and students have the right to be in a school and workplace environment that is free of any form of emotional or physical abuse, violence, and harassment. The district will investigate all complaints or allegations, either formal or informal, within the school environment. The school district will discipline any pupil or employee of the district who retaliates against a person who reports alleged harassment, abuse, or violence. Types of Harassment may include, but are not limited to: Racial, Sexual, Religious, Gender, Sexual orientation, Emotional, Physical, Threatening, or Intimidating. BULLYING “Bullying” means intimidating, threatening, abusive, or harming conduct that is objectively offensive and: 1. an actual or perceived imbalance of power exists between the student engaging in the prohibited conduct and the target of the prohibited conduct, and the conduct is repeated or forms a pattern; or 2. materially and substantially interferes with a student’s educational opportunities or performance or ability to participate in school functions or activities or receive school benefits, services, or privileges. The term, “bullying,” specifically includes cyberbullying as defined in this policy. Students (victims and bystanders) should report instances of bullying immediately to a staff member. Reports will be investigated by the administration and consequences will be implemented subject to the district’s discipline policy. HAZING Hazing means “committing an act against a student, or coercing a student into committing an act, that creates a substantial risk of harm to a person, in order for the student to be initiated into or affiliated with a student organization, or for any other purpose.” Hazing activities of any type are inconsistent with the educational goals of the Chisago Lakes Public Schools and are prohibited at all times. Consequences for violations of the district sexual, racial, religious harassment, violence, and hazing policy, and for discrimination based upon sexual orientation include: immediate removal from class and, if necessary police contact, parent/guardian notification, verbal/written warning, peer mediation, student/parent meeting, loss of privileges, lunch/after school detention, behavior contract, schedule modifications, suspension, expulsion. HEALTH OFFICE/HEALTH SERVICES Student Health Students may access the health office for illness, medication, or first aid needs. A pass from the student’s teacher is required for attendance purposes. Students will be assessed and allowed to rest if necessary; a decision will be made as to whether they should be sent home or back to class. Health office staff will notify parents/guardians before students are sent home. The student will be excused for the following school day for a fever at or above 100°, for vomiting and/or diarrhea, or until symptoms have resolved. Please contact the nurse at 651-213-2405 for assistance with specific disease exclusion guidelines. It is important to note that health staff are not able to diagnose illness or injury. Parents are encouraged to consult with their physician or clinic. Medications Parents should administer medication to their child at home whenever possible. Prescription and non-prescription medications taken during the school day must be dispensed through the health office. Medications must come in the original container accompanied by written permission from the parent and physician. Medication authorization forms are available in the school health office, on the district website, and at most of the area clinics. Students in grades 7-12 may self-carry non-prescription pain relievers in the original containers upon a written request from the parent and after signing a safe use agreement with the licensed school nurse. Students in grades 6-12 may self-carry an asthma inhaler with written authorization from the parent and physician and after demonstrating the skills to safely possess and use the medication with the licensed school nurse. Please note: Emergency medications such as EpiPens or insulin will be handled with an emergency care plan written by parents/guardians and the school nurse in collaboration with building health service staff and physician approval. Directives of this emergency medication will need to be on file annually or as changes occur.
Immunizations All students must have an up-to-date pupil immunization record on file in the school health office. Students must provide required documentation of certain vaccinations by the first day of school. See immunization letter for specifics. Please contact the health office with questions (651-213-2405). Students transferring into the district have thirty days to submit documentation from their physician, clinic, or parent statement of their immunization. Perfume, Body Sprays, Cologne, Essential Oils, etc. Use of these items may create problems for those who have allergies or asthma. Student abuse of these products may result in removal of the items from his/her possession. GOOGLE CLASSROOM Google Classroom is the platform for which to find all work assigned by your core teachers. This is very helpful when looking for what is coming up in class or for when you are absent. Assignments can be submitted electronically through this platform as well. Teachers will be sharing more about how Google Classroom works as the year progresses. HOMEWORK Homework is defined as any assignment given by a teacher to be entirely or partially completed in a setting other than the classroom. Homework is viewed as an opportunity to promote, enhance, extend or reinforce formal academic learning. Homework can also serve as a communication link between school and home to show what students are studying. Student Responsibilities: Record all assignments in your logbook, make sure you understand the assignments given, submit assignments on time, and view your teachers’ homework in Synergy - StudentVUE. Parent Responsibilities: Ask to see the assignments recorded in the logbook, assist students in developing good study habits by providing necessary materials and a specific time and place to study that is free of distractions. Assist students in setting attendance and academic goals each term. A general guideline to follow is ten minutes of homework per grade level, per night (6th grade-60 minutes, 7th grade-70 minutes, 8th grade - 80 minutes.), contact your child’s teacher with questions or concerns related to an assignment and view their homework on ParentVUE. Before School/After School Resources Teachers are on duty from 7:15 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. and, in most cases, they are available to answer questions or provide students with assistance before or after school. Contact your child’s teacher if you would like your child to arrive early or stay late for additional help. Tutoring is available from 2:25 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday after school through the “Homework Help” program. Please contact Mrs. Tinjum at 651-213-2409 or Mrs. Kerridge at 651-213-2473 for details. HONOR ROLL Students earn A Honor roll status if they have an average GPA of 3.667 to 4.000 at the end of each quarter. Students earn B Honor roll status if they have an average of 3.000 to 3.666 at the end of each quarter. Names of students earning honor roll status will be posted on the activity bulletin board and sent to our local newspaper for publication. Students earning A Honor roll status will be treated to a special treat at the end of every term. INAPPROPRIATE DISPLAY OF AFFECTION Boundaries between students must conform to the rules of good taste. Inappropriate displays of affection such as hugging, kissing or touching will be addressed with both students by teachers and/or administration. Parent contact will be made if students are unwilling to abide by this expectation. INTERNET/INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY We believe that technology provides students opportunities to learn in and outside of the classroom walls. The use of technology in schools is guided in further detail by District Policy 524 - Internet and Acceptable Use Policy. Use of the Internet and computer equipment is a privilege, not a right. Inappropriate, illegal, or unauthorized use of the Internet could result in a cancellation of those privileges. Any use of the Internet or other communication methods that conveys inappropriate information may result in consequences both in school and in the legal system. Students should also be aware that placing personal information on web sites may jeopardize their future employment, admission to college, eligibility status, and other opportunities. Every individual using school equipment and networks must agree to abide by the rules below.
Students May Not: 1. Display or access material which is obscene, profane, violent, discriminatory or depicts or describes illegal activities. 2. Participate in “chat”, “e-mail”, or “bulletin board” activities, unless directed and supervised by staff. 3. Print material from the Internet without permission. 4. Copy, delete or alter another student or staff member’s file. Any unauthorized removal of computer equipment or related items will be regarded as theft of school property. Any damage to hardware or software, deleting of files, usage of unauthorized software or any modifications to system files will be regarded as damage to school property. All students are required to be logged into their school account only during the school day. INSUBORDINATION A student is insubordinate when a staff member makes a reasonable request and the student refuses to comply. Consequences may include detention or suspension at the discretion of administration. LANGUAGE Racist, sexist, suggestive, and profane language is not permitted. suspension at the discretion of administration.
Consequences may include detention or
LUNCH/BREAKFAST “A” Lunch - 10:25 - 10:50 - (7th & 8th grade) “B” Lunch - 10:52 - 11:17 - (7th & 8th grade) “C” Lunch - 11:24 - 11:49 - (7th & 8th grade) “D” Lunch - 11:50 - 12:16 - (6th grade) “E” Lunch - 12:16 - 12:41 - (6th grade) Students must report to the lunchroom or they will be counted as truant. Students may bring a bag lunch from home if they choose not to eat the school lunch. The lunch must be placed in the student’s locker upon arriving at school and may not be removed until the scheduled lunchtime. No pop is allowed during school hours. Lunchroom Rules: 1. Treat others with respect. 2. Stay seated except to return your tray. 3. Be responsible for cleaning up after oneself, and assisting with picking up items when requested to do so by a supervisor in the lunchroom. 4. Food should stay on trays. (Throwing any food or objects will not be tolerated). 5. Students are not permitted to borrow money from other students for any reason. 6. No food or drink may be taken out of the lunchroom. Failure to follow lunchroom rules may result in removal from the lunchroom or other consequences as determined by the administration. LOST AND FOUND Lost and found is located outside the Attendance Desk and in both physical education locker rooms. The school will make every effort to help find student property that appears lost or stolen. At the end of each quarter, all unclaimed items will be donated to a charitable organization. LUNCH AND AFTER SCHOOL DETENTION Lunch detention may be issued as a consequence for misbehavior. Student's assigned lunch detention should report directly to room 123 during their regularly scheduled lunch time. A bag lunch will be provided or students can choose to bring a packed lunch from home instead. Students should bring something to work on or a book to read. Students will be excused at the end of their lunch period. After school detention may be issued as a consequence for misbehavior. Student’s assigned after-school detention should report to room 123 by 2:25 p.m. Students should bring something to work on or a book to read. Students
will be excused from detention at 3:20 p.m. PARENT COMMUNICATION ParentVue ParentVue gives parents and students easy online access to current grades, attendance, homework assignments, test history, health information, daily schedule, etc. Teachers are required to update grades weekly, on or by Monday afternoon. At times, the update may go beyond one week due to the grading of a major project. If you have questions or are having difficulty logging in, contact the help desk by emailing helpdesk@isd2144.org. Report Cards Report cards will be available online at the end of each quarter. Printed copies are available upon request. Newsletter The Principal's weekly newsletter is emailed weekly. Please notify the main office at 651-213-2400 if you would like a printed copy sent home with your child. Parent-Teacher Conferences - Fall and Spring Conferences are scheduled on-line twice during the academic year, using MyConferenceTime. Information regarding on-line sign up will be emailed as conferences approach. Feel free to contact Mr. Warzecha at 651-213-2401 with scheduling questions. Automated Information System Our automated alert system (SchoolMessenger) has the capability to provide important messages electronically via computer, telephone and/or text message. This system is used for emergency situations (e.g. school closings, threats, etc.) and school-wide communications (e.g. newsletters). We can only reach you if your information is correct. Facebook Join us on Facebook by clicking on the links at the bottom of our web-page. Special events, photos and reminders are posted weekly. PHYSICAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS Tennis shoes and a change of clothes (t-shirts, sweatshirts, shorts, wind pants, etc.) are required for physical education class. All dress and appearance guidelines apply. Students are expected to participate in all of the physical education units unless a physician’s note states otherwise. Students will be issued a school lock and assigned a locker for their physical education attire. We strongly encourage students to use the lock daily to secure belongings. Non-school locks will be removed. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE In accordance with state law, Chisago Lakes Middle School students and staff will be asked to recite the Pledge of Allegiance on Wednesday mornings. The recitation will be conducted over the school intercom. Students may elect not to stand or say the Pledge of Allegiance. SALE OF ITEMS/SOLICITING The sale or distribution of items not officially authorized through school-sponsored activities is not allowed. Items may be confiscated. LOCKERS Every student is assigned an individual locker. It is each student’s responsibility to keep the combination private so that problems do not occur. Students are not permitted to share lockers. Students are not allowed to decorate lockers with paper, contact paper, or any other permanent materials. Use of tape of any kind is not allowed. If you wish to hang a mirror or a schedule, you may use magnets. At the end of each school year, school personnel will inspect all lockers. Students will be assessed fines for damages, scratches, other markings, decals/stickers, and general clean out if needed. Chisago Lakes Policy 502: It is the policy of the state of Minnesota that: “School lockers are the property of the school district. At no time does the school district relinquish its exclusive control of lockers provided for the convenience of students. School authorities for any reason may conduct an inspection of the interior of lockers at any time, without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant. The personal possessions of students within a school locker may be searched only when school authorities have a reasonable
suspicion that the search will uncover evidence of a violation of law or school rules.” SEARCH PROCEDURES School officials may inspect personal possessions and/or a student’s person may be inspected based on a reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover a violation of law or school rules. Lockers and desk areas may be searched for any reason without consent or a search warrant. A mental detecting wand may be used during searches. SIGNS/POSTERS No signs or posters may be posted or distributed on school property without prior approval by the principal. SKATEBOARDS/LONGBOARDS/SCOOTERS, ETC. In order to prevent injuries and protect school property, these items are not allowed on school grounds. Chisago Lakes Middle School is not responsible for the safety of skateboarders/longboarders. The school bears no responsibility if skateboards/longboards/scooters, etc are lost, stolen, or damaged anywhere on school property. These items may be confiscated if brought to school. STOP AND THINK/TECHNOLOGY TICKETS This program is designed to keep student behavior in check. Stop and Think/Technology Tickets are issued to students for behaviors that occur in the classroom, hallways, cafeteria, etc. that are not worthy of a discipline referral, but are not appropriate. The following behaviors would be examples of behaviors where students could earn a Stop and Think/Technology Ticket: excessive talking, not prepared for class, not following directions, running in the hallways, not working well with others, name calling, use of personal technology without permission in the classroom, etc. Consequences for Stop and Think/Technology Tickets are as follows: 1. 5=discipline referral, discussion with student and parent/guardian contacted 2. 10=discipline referral, 1 lunch detentions, discussion with student and parent/guardian contacted 3. 15=discipline referral, 2 days lunch detention,discussion with student and parent/guardian contacted 4. 20=discipline referral, 1 day after school detention, discussion with student and parent/guardian contacted, 5. 25=discipline referral, 2 days after school detention, discussion with student and parent/guardian contacted 6. 30 or more Stop and Think/Technology Tickets will result in discipline as determined by the administration. Self-correction is an important component of a middle school student’s experience and learning. To promote this we will reset our total Stop and Think/Technology tickets to start over at the semester. This provides students the opportunity for a fresh start for the second half of the school year. STUDENTS OF THE TERM Students will be selected each term by classroom teachers and administrators. These students will be selected for demonstrating academic excellence, socially appropriate behavior, and citizenship. Recipients of the recognition will receive a certificate and will be invited to a celebration. In addition, photos will be placed on the bulletin board in the main entrance and noted in the Principal’s newsletter. STUDENT COUNCIL Student Council is an organization through which students may express their opinions and participate in school and community projects/activities. Student council representatives are elected by the student body. Student council members are expected to display academic excellence, socially acceptable behavior and good citizenship. Students not demonstrating the above will be removed from the student council. TELEPHONE CALLS/MESSAGES/ANNOUNCEMENTS Students will not be allowed to leave class to make or take a phone call unless it is an emergency. Phone calls should be handled between classes, during lunch time, or at the end of the school day. Arrangements to pick up students for appointments, etc. should be made in advance or by calling the attendance secretary at 651-213-2411. Students may use the phone in the main office if needed. Announcements that include items of interest and are of importance to students will be read aloud over the PA system when appropriate. TENNESSEN WARNING The warning informs an individual of what is going to be talked about, why the data is being collected, how the
agency intends to use the data, and whether the individual may refuse or is legally required to supply the information/data. These warnings are given when we feel the issue warrants it based on the nature and severity of the concern. TEXTBOOKS & LIBRARY BOOKS All classroom texts and library books are loaned to students for their use during the school year. Books should be kept clean and handled carefully. If a book is damaged and is deemed unusable, the student will be responsible for current replacement costs. If a student notices damage in a textbook or library book, it is the responsibility of the student to report the damage to staff before they return it. VISITORS Student visitors and/or parents are not allowed to accompany students during the school day. Tours of the building will be arranged through the office for students and/or parents who are interested in attending Chisago Lakes Middle School. WEAPON FREE SCHOOL No person shall possess, use or distribute a weapon when in a school location. The District will act to enforce this policy and to discipline or take appropriate action against any person who violates this policy. The District takes a position of “Zero Tolerance” in regard to the possession, use or distribution of weapons by students. Consequently, the minimum consequence for students possessing, using or distributing weapons shall include: 1. immediate out-of-school suspension; 2. confiscation of the weapon; 3. immediate notification of police; 4. parent or guardian notification; and 5. recommendation to the superintendent of dismissal for a period of time not to exceed one year. A “weapon” means any object, device or instrument designed as a weapon or through its use is capable of threatening or producing bodily harm or which may be used to inflict self-injury. STUDENT CHEMICAL POSSESSION, USE ABUSE, AND DEPENDENCY Use of controlled substances, toxic substances, and alcohol before, during, or after school hours, at school or in any other school location, is prohibited as general policy. Paraphernalia associated with controlled substances is prohibited. A student who violates the terms of this Policy shall be subject to discipline in accordance with the District’s Discipline Policy. Such discipline may include suspension or expulsion from school. The student may be referred to a drug or alcohol assistance or rehabilitation program and/or to law enforcement officials when appropriate. WILDCAT WOW PROGRAM Wildcat Wow’s are issued to students that consistently demonstrate our High 5, go above and beyond what is expected, are engaged learners, and/or earn an exceptional grade on an assessment, project, or presentation. Students earning a Wildcat Wow should stop by the office, attendance desk or media center to exchange their ticket for a small reward and to be entered into our monthly drawing for cool prizes. Students earning 5 Wildcat Wow’s, will earn a Wildcat Pride certificate and will be recognized in our newsletter and on our Outstanding Student Wall. ADMINISTRATIVE FACULTY Mr Warzecha: Principal Mr. Gillach: Associate Principal 6TH GRADE FACULTY Ms. Bjelland: English Mrs. Hawkinson: MN History Mr. Hinsch: Science Mrs. Hoppe: English
Mrs. LeRoux : Math Mrs. McLeod: English Mr. Otte: Math Mrs. Phelps: Science Mrs. Randall: English Mrs. Schneider: MN History 7TH GRADE FACULTY Mrs. Hinsch: Science Mrs. Husfeldt : Math Mrs. MacIver: Math Mrs. Maeckelbergh: Science Mrs. Peterson: English Mr. Schulte: U.S. History Mrs. Wiehl: U.S. History Mrs. Youngdahl: English 8TH GRADE FACULTY Ms. Frawley: Algebra Mr. Green: English Mr. Robilia: Algebra TBD: English Mr. Kjos: Science Mr. Peterson - Geography Mrs. Schneider: Geography Mrs Wiehl: Geography Mr. Whitacre: Science ALLIED/ELECTIVE FACULTY Mrs. Albertson: Art Mrs. Anderson Health/Physical Education Mr. Appleby: Physical Education Mr. Boal: Band/General Music Mrs. Simpson: Choir/General Music Mr. Brown: Physical Education Mrs. McKinnon: Health/Physical Education Mr. Schoeneck: Computer Skills/Project Lead the Way: Computer Science Mr. Wakefield: Project Lead the Way: Design and Modeling and Automation and Robotics SPECIAL EDUCATION FACULTY Ms. Barstow: Special Education Teacher Mrs. Erickson: Special Education Dean of Students Dr. Fischer: School Psychologist Mrs. Gladitsch: Special Education Teacher Mrs. Nielsen: Special Education Teacher Mrs. Schaar: Speech and Language Pathologist Mr. Springman: Special Education Teacher Mr. Von Feldt: Special Education Teacher SUPPORT FACULTY Mrs. Berning: Media Specialist Mrs. Carlin: Special Education Paraprofessional Mrs. Cook: Special Education Paraprofessional Mrs. Daugs: Administrative Assistant to the Principal Mr. Downs: Special Education Paraprofessional Ms. Eickhoff: Special Education Paraprofessional Mrs. Ehlert: Special Education Paraprofessional Mrs. Gillespie: Technology Paraprofessional/Student Council Advisor Mrs. Gorski: Administrative Assistant to the Associate Principal and Guidance Services Mrs. Grams: Accompanist for Choir
Mrs. Hawkins: Special Education Paraprofessional Ms. Jakowski: Check and Connect Coordinator (ADSIS) Mrs. Kerridge: School Counselor Mrs. LeBlanc: Special Education Paraprofessional Mrs. Lefebvre: Special Education Paraprofessional Ms. Letourneau: Special Education Paraprofessional Mrs. Lieffring: Attendance Secretary Mrs. Linnell: Special Education Paraprofessional Mrs. Lunceford: Special Education Paraprofessional Ms. Mattson: Special Education Paraprofessional Mrs. Nielsen: LPN/Health Assistant Mrs. Oman: ISS/Lunch Detention/Reset Room Supervisor Mrs. Roderick: Special Education Paraprofessional/After School Detention Supervisor Mrs. Rosenthal: Special Education Paraprofessional Mrs. Saueressig: Media Center Paraprofessional Mrs. Scholl: Structured Study Supervisor/Progress Monitor/Homework Help Supervisor Mrs. Schulte: Reading Specialist Mrs. Schultz: Special Education Paraprofessional Mrs. Severson: School Nurse Mrs. Tinjum: School Counselor Ms. Thielen: Special Education Paraprofessional Mrs. Woolley: English Language Learners (ELL) 2023 - 2024 ACTIVITY DATES August 21 - 6th Grade Sneak Peek (6:00pm - 8:00pm) August 29 - Student Orientation and School Pictures (3:00pm - 7:00pm) September 4 - No School (Labor Day) September 5 - First Day of School September 11 - Virtual Fall Fundraiser kick off September 12 - 15 - Oral Reading Fluency Testing September 18 - 22 - FastBridge reading and math September 26 - Fundraiser Wrap Up October 2 - No School (Staff Development Day) October 3 - October 6 - Algebra Probes - 7th and 8th grades October 9 - Picture Retake Day (7:30am) October 9 - October 13 - Book Fair October 10 - Parent Teacher Conferences (3:00pm - 7:00pm) October 12 - Parent Teacher Conferences (3:00pm - 7:00pm) October 16 - October 19 - Washington D.C. Student Trip October 19 - 20 - No School - Ed. MN Conference (MEA) October 26 - Mentorship Lunch October 27 - School Dance (Times: TBD) November 3 - End of Term 1 November 6 - No School (Staff Development Day) November 16 - Mentorship Lunch November 22 - 24 - No School (Thanksgiving Break) December 12 - Winter Choir Concert (6:00pm) - PAC December 14 - Mentorship Lunch December 19 - Winter Band Concert (6:00pm) - PAC December 22 - January 1 - No School (Winter Break) January 2 - School Resumes January 3 - 26 - Oral Reading Fluency January 3 - 26 - Algebra Probes January 8 - 12 - FastBridge January 15 - No School (MLK Day) January 18 - Mentorship Lunch January 19 - End of Term 2 January 22 - No School (Staff Development Day) January 22 - January 24 - Hinsch's Classes at Wolf Ridge January 24 - January 26 - Phelps' Classes at Wolf Ridge
January 29 - Music Extravaganza - Grades 8 - 12 (7:00pm) - PAC February 15 - Mentorship Lunch February 19 - No School (President’s Day; Staff Dev Day) February 20 - Parent-Teacher Conferences (3:00pm - 7:00pm) February 21 - Counselor's from the the HS come to the MS for Registration February 22 - Middle School Play 8:00am (dress rehearsal), 12:00pm (PAC) February 23 - Middle School Play 10:00am, (12:00pm, 7:00pm) - PAC February 24 - Middle School Play 2:00pm (PAC) February 26 - Counselor’s from the HS hold parents Night for Registration February 27 - Parent Teacher Conferences (3:00pm - 7:00pm) March 4 - MCA Testing window Opens for Reading, Math, Science and MTAS March 4 - 8 - No School (Spring Break) March 21 - Mentorship Lunch March 28 - End of Term 3 March 29 - No School (Good Friday) April 1 - No School (Staff Development Day) April 5 - School Dance (Times: TBD) April 8 - 12 - Fastbridge - aMath and aReading April 15 - 18 - MCA Reading Assessment (Grades 6-8) April 18 - Mentorship Lunch April 29 - May 2 - MCA Math Assessment (Grades 6-8) May 3 - MCA Reading and Math windows close May 6 - 9 - MCA Science (Grade 8) May 7 - Spring Band Concert (6:00pm) - PAC May 8 - 9 - CogAT - (6th grade kids indicated by Fastbridge) May 8 - 15 - Oral Reading Fluency Testing May 10 - Science MCA ends May 10 - 8th Grade Semi Formal Dance (7:00pm-9:00pm) - Taylors Falls May 14 - Spring Choir Concert (6:00pm) - PAC May 16 - Mentorship Lunch May 24 - No School (Staff Development Day) May 27 - No School (Memorial Day) June 4 - Last Day of School and End of Term 4 June 5 - Staff Day (No School for Students)
Statewide Assessments:
Parent/Guardian Participation Guide and Refusal Information Your student’s participation in statewide assessments is important as it allows your school and district to ensure all students have access to a high-quality education. In the past, students with disabilities and English learners were often excluded from statewide assessments. By requiring that all students take statewide assessments, schools and teachers have more information to see how all students are doing. This helps schools to continuously improve the education they provide and to identify groups, grades, or subjects that may need additional support.
Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA) and
Minnesota Test of Academic Skills (MTAS) Assessments Connect to Standards
Statewide assessments
are based on the
MCA and MTAS are the annual assessments in reading, Minnesota Academic Standards or the WIDA English Language Development Standards. These standards define the ACCESS and Alternate ACCESS for English Learners knowledge and skills students should be learning in K–12 public and charter schools. Minnesota prioritizes high-quality The ACCESS and Alternate ACCESS are the annual assessments education, and statewide assessments gives educators and leaders an opportunity to evaluate student and school success. for English learners that provide information about their progress in learning academic English based on the WIDA mathematics and science that measure a snapshot of student English Language Development Standards. learning of the Minnesota K–12 Academic Standards.
Statewide Assessments Help Families and Students Participating in statewide assessments helps families see a snapshot of their student’s learning so they can advocate for their success in school. High school students can use MCA results: • For course placement at a Minnesota State college or university. If students receive a college-ready score, they may not need to take a remedial, noncredit course for that subject. • For Postsecondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) and College in the Schools programs. English learners who take the ACCESS or Alternate ACCESS and meet certain requirements have the opportunity to exit from English learner programs.
Taking Statewide Assessments Helps Your Student’s School Statewide assessments provide information to your school and district about how all students are engaging with the content they learn in school. This information helps: • Educators evaluate their instructional materials. • Schools and districts identify inequities between groups, explore root causes and implement supports. • School and district leaders make decisions about how to use money and resources to support all students.
Student Participation in Statewide Assessments Student participation in state and locally required assessments is a parent/guardian choice. If you choose to have your student not participate in a statewide assessment, please provide a reason for your decision on the form. Contact your student’s school to learn more about locally required assessments. Updated April 2022 - Page 1 of 2
Consequences of Not Participating in Statewide school’s ability to be identified for support or recognized for success. Assessments
Check with your local school or district to see if there are any • The student will not receive an individual score. For ACCESS other consequences for not participating. and Alternate ACCESS, the student would not have the opportunity to exit their English learner program. • School and Additional Information district assessment results will be incomplete, making it more difficult to have an accurate picture of student learning. • Since all eligible students are included in some calculations Explore even when they do not participate, school and district the Statewide accountability results are impacted. This may affect the Testing page
Statewide Testing)
for more information (education.mn.gov > Students and Families > Programs and Initiatives >
• On average, students spend less than 1 percent of instructional time taking statewide assessments each year. • Minnesota statutes limit the total amount of time students can spend taking other district- or school-wide assessments to 11 hours or less each school year, depending on the grade. • School districts and charter schools are required to publish an assessment calendar on their website by the beginning of each school year. Refer to your district or charter school’s website for more information on assessments.
(Note: This form is only applicable for the 20___ to 20___ school year.)
Statewide Assessment: Parent/Guardian Decision Not to Participate By completing this form, you are acknowledging that your student will not participate in statewide assessments and will not receive individual assessment results. This form must be returned to your student’s school before the applicable test administration. Student Name: _______________________________________________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Name (print): __________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature: ___________________________________________ Date: ____________________ Reason for Refusal:
Please indicate the statewide assessment(s) you are opting the student out of this school year: MCA/MTAS Reading
MCA/MTAS Science
MCA/MTAS Mathematics
ACCESS/Alternate ACCESS Contact your school or district for more information on how to opt out of local assessments. Updated April 2022 - Page 2 of 2