CONTENTS

Principal’s Message

SMS History

Our Theme

Belief Statements

Did You Know

2006-2007 School Calendar

SMS Information 2006-07

Academics

Daily Schedule

Daily Procedures, Late to Class, Afternoon Procedures, Leaving School Grounds, Attendance Passes, Late Bus, Recess

Behavioral Expectations

Philosophy, Bus Conduct Bullying, Care of School Facilities, Alcohol, Drugs & Look-Alikes Courtesy, Cigarettes, Matches, Lighters, Dress Requirements, & Smoking Material, Forgery/Cheating, Weapons and Explosives, Gum, Inappropriate Language, Simple Assault, Vandalism, Sexual Harassment Policy, Social Decorum

General Information

Advisor/Advisee, Nondiscrimination Policy, Bicycles, PBIS, Books & Equipment Puma Tracks & Activities Calendar, CD Players/etc, Philosophy of Assessment, Cell Phones, Report Cards & Honor Roll, Co-Curricular Activities/School Volunteer Program, Interscholastic Athletics, Service Learning Requirements, Eligibility Policy, Skateboards/Rollerblades/Rollerskates, Expanding Horizons Program, Snow Day Policy, Guidance/Counseling Program, Social Events, Health, Substitute Teachers, Information Center, Telephone, Locker, Vending Machines/Snacks, Lost and Found, Visitors, Lunch/Breakfast

Computer & Network Acceptable Use Procedure

Principal’s Message

South Meadow School teachers, staff, and administration would like to welcome you to our school for the year 2006-2007. We are all excited about those who are returning and all those who are new to our school. The school theme continues to be a “caring, cooperative, respectful, and academically challenging community of learners.” Beyond our strong academic curriculum, we offer many opportunities for programs, activities and individual growth. The best way to have a positive experience in school is to take advantage of as many programs as possible. I encourage you to take advantage of these opportunities, which will make your experience here more enriching.

One of the best lessons in life is that of giving of ourselves for others. Our Service Learning requirement at SMS is one way of giving back to a community that has always been supportive of our schools. We encourage you to find creative ways to take advantage of this service. There are many opportunities that include working with the elderly, supporting coaches during sporting events, helping with community sponsored events, and more. When students give of themselves in ways that benefit others, they learn so much about who they are.

Parents are an important part of our success at SMS. We encourage parent involvement, not only in your child’s classroom, but also in the entire school program. We view student success as a team endeavor; one where students, parents and teachers work together. We hope parents will spend time talking with their students about each day, asking what was good about their day or what was challenging. Student success is enhanced when parents sit down and review the daily homework assignments written in this student handbook as well as the assignments themselves. This vehicle of communication, one where students, parents and teachers take responsibility, is a tool that has proven to be a significant contribution to student success.

At SMS, we are all learners. The level of your learning will be determined by what you contribute. I encourage you to find your area of interest in school and challenge yourselves and your teachers. Find your passion and share it with others. We look forward to the many wonderful contributions you will make to SMS. You can make a difference here and in the years ahead.

Sincerely,

Richard Dunning

OUR THEME

“A caring, cooperative, respectful and academically challenging community of learners.”

We believe that students should respect each others’ ideas, personal beliefs and belongings. We also believe that students behave for a variety of reasons.
Behavior shows how students are feeling toward themselves and others. Sometimes negative behaviors erupt because students do not know how they are feeling; they do not know what else to do, or their uncertainty about their acceptance in the school community creates tension within themselves.
When a student’s behavior is not caring, cooperative and respectful, and is interfering with the learning of others, his/her teacher will support him/her in developing other ways of interacting. This will be done by conferring with the student about the issue, having the student spend time in the office if necessary, calling parents and/or having parents conference with the teacher and student, or bringing other supports in to help.
We believe our school environment needs to be a physically and emotionally safe place in order for students to learn. Teachers, parents, community and students need to work together to ensure a positive school environment.
***

BELIEF STATEMENTS

• We believe that South Meadow School has the distinct responsibility of providing learning experiences, which enable students, as they approach and begin adolescence, to develop and clarify their ideas about the world and their places in it.
• We believe that family involvement is critical to a student's successful educational experience.
• We believe that in all of our endeavors, students, staff and parents must actively strive to create a caring, cooperative, and respectful community.
• We believe all students are capable of learning and should be held to high expectations.
• We believe all students should be academically challenged.
• We believe that students will develop and integrate knowledge, valuable skills, responsible attitudes and cooperative behavior.
• We believe that learning is a lifelong process.
• We believe that students should learn to use technology efficiently in a variety of real life situations.
• We believe curriculum should be integrated wherever possible.
• We believe service to the community is beneficial to all students.

DID YOU KNOW

• Special help and catch up times (afternoon club) is held at least once a week from 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. for students not succeeding in their course work.
• Grade 5 goes to The Ferry Beach Ecology School from September 11 – 15, 2006.
• Annual Turkey Trot race will be held the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. All students, parents and community members may participate by bringing a non-perishable canned good, peanut butter, macaroni and cheese, which is donated to the Monadnock Food Pantry.
• Perhaps you have noticed the tiles, which decorate the main lobby and hallways of SMS. This tradition was begun with the class of 2000. Each 8th grade student designs and paints an 8-inch tile as a memory of her/his time as a student at South Meadow.
• New Hampshire Dance Institute (NHDI) – Students compete and participate in a dance program, during Memorial Day Weekend in May.
• Students of the month are recognized in each team and grade level. Student selection is based on her/his contribution to making South Meadow a “caring, cooperative, respectful community of learners.”
• Students may participate in the Horse Power program at Pony Farm in Temple and Swim Power at the Crotched Mountain swimming pool.
• Our Band and Chorus students march in local parades and perform for various groups in the community.
• Our two Robotics Teams compete in December in State Competition.
• SMS was the New Hampshire Middle School of the Year during the 2005-2006 school year.

SMS HISTORY

South Meadow School, one of two grade 5-8 middle schools serving SAU #1, is housed in a modern, attractive building located at 108 Hancock Road (Route 202 N) in Peterborough, New Hampshire. The school draws in over 500 students from the communities of Dublin, Greenfield, Peterborough, Sharon, and Temple.
In 1970, after a devastating fire in the old junior-senior high school causing severe space needs, the School Board bought the Honeywell factory building and renovated it. The newly remodeled structure served as the Peterborough Middle School.
During the ensuing 20 years, minor renovations were made to improve the building to make it more like a school than a factory. Although the attempt was noble, the desired effect left much undone. In March 1989, a bond issue was passed to completely renovate the school and to add a gymnasium and playing field. Construction began in July 1989 and continued throughout the school year, with students and construction personnel working cooperatively to ensure a minimum of disruption to the school day. Renovation was completed in June 1990, and the school name changed in July to South Meadow School.

SMS INFORMATION 2006-2007

Grade 5 has five self-contained classrooms. Each room will be composed of approximately 22 students and one teacher. A special education teacher and aide will work with all of fifth grade.

Grade 6 has three – 2 person teams: Kancamagus, Kearsage, and Wapack. Each team is composed of approximately 37 students and two teachers, including a special education teacher. These teachers will move to grade 7 next year with their students and continue the looping process. Sixth grade students join a looping team where they stay for sixth and seventh grade. From the beginning of 6th grade to the end of the 7th grade, students experience many changes that at times can be difficult as they approach early adolescence. Building relationships between students, parents and teachers over two years provides consistency and continuity and benefits students through this transition. Looping began in September 1996. Grade 6 students and teachers, therefore, remain together for two years.

Grade 7 has three – 2 person teams: Wilder, Granite, and Patriot. Each team is composed of approximately 50 students and two teachers, including a special education teacher.

Grade 8 has two – 3 person teams. Each team is composed of approximately 55 students. A special education teacher and aide will work with the entire eighth grade.

Students are assigned to their class or team by the administration. Individual student placement is based on academic abilities, special educational needs, State Assessment results, reading level, behavioral and social concerns, previous teacher recommendations, unique student needs and parent and student input. With this information, a sincere attempt is made to honor parent and student input and to still ensure that each team is balanced by number and composed of a student population that is reflective of our entire student body.
Students within a class or team are grouped for learning in many configurations, which reflect student academic potential, previous performance, learning characteristics, and test scores to ensure that all students may maximize their learning.
Silent Sustained Reading: Every day all students and staff put aside other materials or tasks and read. The purpose of the silent sustained reading period is to emphasize the importance of reading in our lives, with staff acting as role models for students.

ACADEMICS

South Meadow offers a strong academic program in language arts (reading, writing, spelling, grammar), math, science and social studies. Teachers are responsible for ensuring the total inclusion of all students within these curriculum areas.
The following required courses at each grade level complete the basic curriculum:

Grade Five: Music, Art, Library, Physical Education, Chorus/Band (elective)

Grade Six: Art, Music, Integrated Art & Technology, Library, Chorus/Band (elective), Physical Education

Grade Seven: Conversational French and Spanish, Physical Education Consumer and Family Art, Integrated Art and Technology, Chorus/Band (elective)

Grade Eight Art, Conversational French and Spanish, Physical Education, Consumer and Family, Library, Chorus/Band (elective)

The Learning Lab is available for students who need assistance in any subject area.

Computer literacy is a major emphasis. All students receive computer instruction as part of their regular curriculum throughout the year. A pamphlet outlining computer literacy skills is available. We start the year with computers in each team, a computer lab, and computer work groups in different parts of the building with access available to the Internet and numerous software programs to enhance student learning.

Integrated projects are an important part of a student’s learning experience. Through integrated projects connections are made with diverse subject areas. Each team is responsible for two integrated projects: one in science and one in social studies. Some of the projects have been: Electricity, Rain Forest, Africa, Oceans, Endangered Species, Pushcart, Wellness, Elections and Robotics. With the addition of the greenhouse, we will enhance the integration of the science curriculum.

Report cards are issued at the end of each quarter.
Sept – October 1st Quarter
October – January 2nd Quarter
January – April 3rd Quarter
April – June 4th Quarter
In addition to the four report cards, parent conferences are held at the end of the first and third quarters of the year. Students’ advisors regularly communicate with parents regarding their child. This handbook has space for daily comments, which allows parent/teacher communication. Teachers use this regularly. Parents are encouraged to use this as a way to keep in touch with school.
All teachers meet daily for planning. At least one planning time each cycle, either at grade or team level, is with the administration, guidance counselor, school psychologist, and other support personnel as needed, to plan, coordinate, and monitor the academic and social progress of each child.

DAILY SCHEDULE

DAILY PROCEDURES
All students are to be dropped off and picked up behind the school in the upper parking lot. No vehicles should use the driveway immediately behind the building. Vehicles may be towed. This is a safety issue for our students and authorized personnel who leave the building in the back to meet waiting vehicles or walk home.

Arrival: 6:45 – 7:35 a.m. Students should not arrive at school before 6:45 a.m.
Students are to enter the building go to their respective class/team area. During this time, students may also go to lockers, deposit money in lunch accounts, have breakfast, visit with friends, or go to the library or gym.

7:30 -- All students are to be present in their advisories. The Pledge of Allegiance and Good News will be announced over the radio each day.

2:15 – All students dismiss

AFTERNOON PROCEDURES
Students are to be dismissed from their last instructional period at 2:15 PM.
A crossing guard will be positioned in front of the building for walkers crossing RT. 202.
When students are picked up at the end of the day, parents must pick them up along the upper parking lot sidewalk only.
STUDENTS ARE EXPECTED TO CLEAN UP AFTER THEMSELVES AND PUT UP CHAIRS BEFORE DISMISSAL.

AFTER SCHOOL
On occasion you may be required by a teacher or the office to remain after school. This will occur when students have neglected to complete classroom assignments (make-up work) or did not follow the prescribed code of behavior (detention).

IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR ALL STUDENTS

Beginning immediately, any non-athletes who are planning on attending any after-school athletic events will not be allowed to stay after school waiting for the game to begin. All students must leave on the buses for home and make arrangements to return to school for the game.

Anyone coming to the games MUST enter only through the rear gym doors. No one will be allowed to be in the rest of the school without being supervised by a teacher.

Anyone who is found in the school unsupervised will be sent home immediately and may not be allowed to attend further games.

ATTENDANCE
We request that parents/guardians advise the school by phone or e-mail when a student is to be absent for any reason. This will eliminate needless telephoning by the school nurse. Calls should be left on the answering machine (924-7105) anytime before 7:30 a.m. or e-mail Chris Tourgee at ctourgee@mail.conval.edu prior to 7:30 a.m. Without such prior notification, the nurse will call the parent’s/guardian’s home or workplace to inquire about the nature of the student’s absence.

• If you arrive after 7:30 a.m., report to the office, sign in, and receive a pass before going to class. Students who are tardy three times will receive a verbal warning, and after four tardies they will receive an office detention.
• After 7:30 a.m., if you are leaving or reentering the building, you must report to the office to sign out and sign in upon your return.
• Regular, daily attendance is expected of all students. Your work and progress depends on being present to take part in daily discussions and activities. Since we know success and educational growth are closely related to good attendance habits, it is our policy to constantly monitor student attendance.
• Unless there are unusual circumstances, no student should be absent more than eight days per school year.

Students cannot be absent from school due to non-participation in field trips

Note: You must present your advisor with a written note signed by a parent when you are:

• Returning from an absence
• Going home any way and any time other than your regularly scheduled routine
• Remaining after school for any reason (you must be under staff supervision)

LATE BUS
Late buses will depart each school day at 4:15 p.m. Students will board one of four buses that will take them to their towns. Students are not allowed to leave school property and then return to take the late bus.

LATE TO CLASS
It is the responsibility of each student to arrive to class on time. If you are late to class, you will be required to have a pass from the teacher responsible for your lateness. If you do not have a pass, the implication is that you have no justifiable reason for being late. It will be up to you and the teacher to resolve the situation.

LEAVING SCHOOL GROUNDS
Whenever your daughter or son leaves school property, she/he must have a note signed by a parent giving permission.

PASSES
When leaving an assigned area or class for any reason, a student is required to have a written pass in hand.

RECESS
Team teachers determine recess. Remember, recess is a privilege and not a requirement.

BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS

PHILOSOPHY
Our motto at South Meadow School is to be a “Caring, cooperative, respectful and academically challenging community of learners.” This is the basis of our behavior and discipline policy. We believe that all members of the SMS community should respect each other’s ideas, personal beliefs, and belongings. We also believe that “needs motivate behavior” and a basic need is to have a school environment that is physically and emotionally safe. Our behavior policy is to guide students toward responsible behavior by establishing clear guidelines and working to promote responsible actions in our classrooms.

Behavior issues that interfere with classroom learning are referred to the Assistant Principal. Each student has the right to an uninterrupted education. When a student interferes with this right, an office referral for interruption of learning is necessary. At this time the student may be required to conference with the assistant principal and be held accountable for his/her actions. After three office referrals, the student is required to meet with their advisor and the assistant principal for follow-up behavioral proposals.

Areas of Behavior that are sent DIRECTLY to the Assistant Principal:

• Usage or possession of drugs/cigarettes/alcohol
• Usage or possession of weapons
• Fighting
• Swearing
• Threatening physical harm to a person or to the building
• Physical, sexual or verbal harassment

The assistant principal will determine the appropriate consequence.

Any time a student is referred to the office, a staff member will fill out an Office Referral Form. This will be sent to the student’s advisor, and a copy will be kept on file in the office.

In the event of suspension from school for a behavior issue, the student must meet with the Assistant Principal upon reentry. The purpose for this is to increase student awareness and responsibility, and to be certain the student has an understanding of the reason for their suspension, and prevention strategies so this can be avoided in the future.

BULLYING
South Meadow School is committed to providing all students a safe school environmental in which all members of the school community are treated with respect. The ConVal School District policy specifically identifies “bullying” as a form of pupil harassment.
The term “bullying” means recurring insults, taunts, or challenges, whether verbal or physical in nature, which are likely to intimidate or provoke a violent or disorderly response from the pupil being treated in this manner. Conduct constituting bullying will not be tolerated, and is prohibited by the policy in accordance with RSA 193-F.

ALCOHOL, DRUGS, and LOOK-ALIKES
No student:

• Shall possess, ingest, sell, provide, or be under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance not prescribed by a medical practitioner.
• Shall possess, sell or provide any paraphernalia associated with the use or sale of alcohol and/or controlled substances
• Shall possess, sell or provide any substance, which is a look-a-like to a controlled substance or alcohol

The above restrictions shall apply in any of the following situations:

• On school property before, during or after school hours
• Enroute to or from school in a school bus or other school authorized vehicle
• Enroute to or from a curricular, co-curricular, extracurricular or athletic activity in a school bus or other authorized vehicle
• At a curricular, co-curricular, extracurricular or athletic activity

Given reasonable suspicion, school administrators may:

• Require physical and/or medical tests, which may include but are not limited to breathalyzer and/or urinalysis to determine whether a student is under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance not prescribed by a medical practitioner
• Conduct a search of a student and her/his property including but not limited to backpacks, lockers, common areas and cars
• Conduct searches with certified, trained dogs and their handlers
• Seize property suspected of violating school rules and/or local, state or federal statutes; when required, such property will be submitted to the local police

Consequences:
Any student found to have violated this policy shall be suspended from school for up to ten (10) days. Said student may also be referred to the Superintendent of Schools for additional suspension time. Any student found to have violated this policy for a second time within 365 days shall be referred to the Superintendent who may recommend to the school board that s/he be expelled for a period not to exceed 365 days. Suspension beyond ten days and/or expulsion will be determined in accordance with district and federal guidelines for hearing and appeal.
A student found to have violated any part of this policy:

• Shall participate in an approved alcohol/drug assessment either by the district Alcohol and Drug Counselor or with a district approved Alcohol and Drug Counselor before returning to school
• Is required to meet (accompanied by parent) with an administrator prior to returning to school
• Shall be reported to the local police for appropriate action if local, state or federal statutes have allegedly been violated
• May be required to participate in a program of education regarding the abuse of alcohol or other controlled substances
• May be required to submit to drug testing by a certified agency prior to and after being allowed to resume attendance at school; proper written evidence of the drug test must be submitted to administration at the time of each testing and reentry to school is based upon “negative” test results

Failure to comply with any of the above requirements will result in continued suspension from school or expulsion from school.

This policy is designed with the hope of eliminating the use of drugs and alcohol from the premises of the Contoocook Valley School District - yet more importantly this District Policy attempts to speak to the local community and greater society regarding the drug problem in our public schools. Although millions of dollars have been spent on drug education, the problem persists and is apparently blind to socioeconomic factors. It is as prevalent today as it was in the 70’s. Studies indicate that no amount of money can make a school safe. There are no educational programs that will solve this problem. There are no policies to effectively eliminate drugs in the schools. There are no consequences that will eliminate drug use among young adults. There are no simple answers or simple solutions to this problem. Once schools, communities and parents recognize the problem, they can form an alliance to work effectively toward providing better educational programs, better policies, better consequences and better alternatives to limit and hopefully eradicate drugs from schools.

Procedures:
*Breathalyzer: a teacher or administrator may make identification. Parent is called and will accompany student to hospital for test. Student will not be readmitted to school until test results are made available to school administration.
* Urinalysis: teacher or administrator may make identification. Parent is called and will accompany student to hospital for test. Student will not be readmitted to school until test results are made available to school administration.
* Drug Dogs: On the basis of suspicion the administration may request that the Superintendent notify the Board Chairman for permission to have a certified “drug dog” and trainer, provided by the state or local police, search lockers and common areas of any district school. Any suspicious material will be turned over to local or state authorities and all further discipline will be handled by the administration of the schools.
*Drug Recognition Expert: The district may have in its employ one or more individuals trained in a 12-step process to identify the presence of drugs or alcohol. These individuals may conduct breath tests, eye exams, and pulse rates, but are not limited to these exams in order to determine the presence of drugs or alcohol in students.

Recommendations:
Each school should have the ability to recommend and use any of the four procedures that best reflect the climate and culture of the school. Some schools may need to use all of the procedures and yet others may already have effective ways of dealing with the problem. The basic issue for each school is the elimination of the possession and use of drugs and alcohol.

CIGARETTES, MATCHES, LIGHTERS, and SMOKING MATERIAL
Cigarettes, matches, lighters, and smoking materials of any kind are not allowed for any reason. Any student in possession of or using any of these materials will be disciplined and the materials confiscated.

WEAPONS and EXPLOSIVES OF ANY KIND
Weapons (such as but not limited to firearms, explosives, incendiaries, martial arts weapons (as defined by RSA 159:24), electronic defense weapons (as defined by RSA 159:20), clubs, billies, knives, metallic knuckles or containers containing chemicals such as pepper gas or mace, fireworks and firecrackers are not permitted on school property, on school buses or at school sponsored activities. Student violations of this policy will result in both school disciplinary action and notification of the local police. Suspension or expulsion could result.
In addition, any student who is determined to have brought a firearm (as defined by 18 US 921) to school will be expelled for not less than one year (365 days). This expulsion may be modified by the Superintendent upon review of the specific case in accordance with other applicable law.
Weapons under control of law enforcement personnel are permitted.

INAPPROPRIATE LANGUAGE
Students will use appropriate language in all settings while in school. This means that name-calling, swearing, obscene language, gestures or disrespect to students and staff will not be tolerated and students will be disciplined.

VANDALISM
The willful destruction or defacing of lockers, desks or other school property will not be tolerated. Students may be suspended until restitution is made. Police may need to be notified.

BUS CONDUCT
The primary function of the bus is to transport students safely to and from school. Video cameras have been installed in order to provide a safe environment within the buses, to identify those students who do not behave in a proper manner, and to identify students responsible for acts of vandalism.
We believe this action will provide a much safer environment for your children when being transported to and from school.
Riding a bus can be dangerous if you do not follow key rules that are for your own protection:

• Stay on the curb or off the pavement at the side of the road until the bus stops, the door is opened and the lights are flashing.
• Board the bus in single file and fill the seats from the front to the rear.
• Stay in your seat at all times with your feet on the floor. You may change seats only with the permission of the driver.
• The driver will give permission to lower windows. Hands and heads will remain within the confines of the bus.
• Ride quietly and sit in an orderly fashion on the bus.
• Respect the rights of others.
• All objects will remain in place while you are on the bus.
• Cross the street ten feet in front of the bus on departure.
• Bus drivers will enforce district regulations.

Failure to comply with the simple rules stated above may result in suspension from riding the bus.

CARE OF SCHOOL FACILITIES
All students should take pride in their school and themselves so that no damage or destruction occurs. Students responsible for defacing lockers, desks or other school property will be referred to the assistant principal.

COURTESY
Being courteous to teachers, school employees, other students, and visitors is a respectful practice at our school. Each of us should strive to be considerate of others at all times, and each student should respect teachers’ judgments.
Students are to treat all adult employees of the school, including secretaries, custodians, and cafeteria workers, with courtesy, and are to follow requests or directions given by them. Rudeness or insubordination will result in disciplinary action.
Remember: Please, Thank you, Excuse me.

DRESS REQUIREMENTS
We believe that an important correlation exists between the way students dress and the way they behave. We have always taken pride in the appearance of our students. Students are expected to exercise maturity, responsibility, and self-respect in all matters including their dress and personal grooming habits. The following guidelines are in effect:

• Clothing or buttons containing alcohol or other drug-related logos and graphics will not be allowed.
• No hats or sunglasses are to be worn inside the school building.
• Shoes must be worn at all times.
• No halters, short shorts, or mini-skirts may be worn.
• No pajamas may be worn.
• Half shirts/tops are not allowed.
• Underwear is not to be exposed. Midriff skin must be covered.
• Dog collars and other tight neckwear may not be worn.
• Dangling chains from pockets, wallets, etc. are not allowed.
• Music that represents violence and drugs is not allowed.
• Students are not to bring coats or jackets to class unless building conditions necessitate.
• Spiked bracelets and spiked collars are not allowed.
• Any other clothing or related paraphernalia that in the school’s opinion represents a distraction to the educational environment is prohibited.

FORGERY/CHEATING
Forgery, cheating and plagiarism are totally unacceptable behaviors and will not be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to, absence or dismissal notes, progress reports, use of crib notes, attempting to secure answers on a test or quiz from another source other than direct personal knowledge, submitting another student's work/report/term paper as one's own and use of any portion of a manuscript from an alternate source without proper footnoting or credits.
Disciplinary action will result from such offenses.

GUM
Gum chewing is not allowed.

SIMPLE ASSAULT
Simple assaults may result in some injuries. Simple assault also includes knowingly having unprivileged physical contact with another person. Recognize that this can be very minor contact and that Principals will consider the District Disciplinary Policy when making a determination about whether or not to file a Safe School Zone Offense Report. We agree to err in the direction of filing a report when there is any question. Law Enforcement and school officials can then jointly determine the best action to be taken. The Assistant Principal will take immediate action with the students involved in any of the above offenses.


SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY
Sexual harassment consists of deliberate, unwelcome and/or unsolicited verbal comments, gestures or physical contact of a sexual nature. Students and employees of the Contoocook Valley School District strictly prohibit sexual harassment. In addition, the Contoocook Valley School Board considers that granting or withholding rewards, based on sexual advances, implied or overt, is not only illegal, it is a gross breach of Contoocook Valley Board policy.
Sexual harassment is inappropriate social behavior. The following checklist will help you determine if you are in an uncomfortable or unsafe situation and need to share your feelings with a teacher, counselor, advisor or administrator.

SOCIAL DECORUM
Students are responsible for their behavior. They should act in an appropriate manner at all times when on school grounds or in the building. This means that boisterous noises, rough housing or fighting, name-calling, swearing, obscene language or gestures, or disrespect to students, staff or facilities will not be tolerated. As well, students have the right to avoid embarrassment caused by the inappropriate behavior of others. Students may not hug, kiss or have any type of close body contact with another student.

Inappropriate Social Behaviors Appropriate Social Behaviors
Make You Feel: Make You Feel:
‘Bad” “Good”
unattractive attractive
degraded complimented
put down equal
disrespected respected
unwanted wanted
powerless in control
sad/angry happy

Any form of harassment should be reported to the assistant principal immediately.

GENERAL INFORMATION

ADVISOR/ADVISEE
Advisory period meets daily from 7:30 – 8:15 a.m. Advisory may consist of the following:
- Advisor/Advisee conference -Team building activities
- Team meetings - Conflict resolution training
- Extra help - Review of Parent-Student handbook
All students are provided time daily with a faculty advisor in a non-academic setting. The advisor/advisee group meets in an assigned area. Advisors meet with students daily and are responsible for monitoring their emotional/social welfare. Advisors meet regularly with other team members to review student progress.
Advisors and team teachers will communicate with parents about academic and social progress. Advisors monitor service learning.

BICYCLES
If you want to ride your bicycle to school, you must wear a helmet. As well, you must present the office with written permission signed by a parent. Bicycles may be left in front of the school in the designated location. Bike locks are advisable.

BOOKS & EQUIPMENT
The ConVal School District provides all textbooks and equipment needed by students in order for them to fulfill their obligations. This material is on loan. It is the student’s responsibility to be prepared for class with appropriate books and equipment. In cases where books and equipment are lost, damaged or destroyed in excess of reasonable wear and tear, the student will be assessed an amount equal to the full replacement cost of the book/equipment. Report cards, records or other materials will not be released until all accounts are resolved.

CD PLAYERS/RADIOS/IPODS/GAMEBOYS
Absolutely no CD players, radios, walkman-type radios, Gameboys or any similar equipment will be allowed out during the school day. Any such equipment found will be confiscated and kept in the office until the end of the day.

CELL PHONES
Cell phone use is not permitted during the school day or in any emergency situations unless authorized by school staff. Cell phones must remain in backpacks.

CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES & INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS
The purpose of the educational program is to provide each student with the opportunity to develop to the full extent of her/his capabilities. The co-curricular program offers excellent supplementary educational settings that also may be utilized to achieve this aim. All students are urged to take advantage of these opportunities to develop academic, athletic, social and leadership skills by participating in at least one of the following activities

• New Hampshire Dance Institute
• SMS Newspaper
• Radio Club
• Activity Period Clubs/Outdoor Activities
• Destination Imagination
• Peer Mediation
• Student Council
• Class/Team Activities
• Interscholastic Sports (grade 7&8)
• Drama
• Yearbook
• Environmental Club
• Horse Power
• Swim Power
• Special Olympics
• Jazz Band
• Select Chorus
• Robotics
• Environmental Club
• Mock Trial
• Interscholastic Athletics

The interscholastic athletic program offers students in grades 7 and 8 the opportunity to compete in various sports. All students participating in an interscholastic sport must have a physical exam prior to the first practice.

Sports offered are:

Fall: Boys Soccer (2 teams), Girls Soccer, Cross Country (Grs.5-8), Field Hockey

Winter: Boys Basketball (2 teams), Girls Basketball (2 teams)

Spring: Track & Field, Baseball, Softball

Since athletics at this level are heavily instructional in nature, it is expected that coaches will strive to play all students during athletic contests.
Please note: Students may participate on another team (outside of school) of the same sport or a different sport during the same season. The SMS team takes priority over all other outside teams. Coaches will send home information regarding all the rules that will apply to this policy.
All members of sports programs and co-curricular activities are recognized in appreciation ceremonies which parents are encouraged to attend at the end of the school year.

ELIGIBILITY POLICY
Participation in athletic and co-curricular activities is considered a privilege granted to students. Since students participating on interscholastic teams represent South Meadow School, their academic and behavioral performance must be exemplary. A student's academic performance and/or behavior while in school or on school grounds will affect her/his right to participate in such activities.
In order to participate on interscholastic teams, or in other co-curricular activities which require a similar commitment of time, no grade below "D" (D- is not acceptable) and no conduct/effort grade below a "4" may be received during the previous quarter.
After being selected for a team, any student who receives a grade of "D-" or "F" or a conduct/effort grade of “5” in any subject during the quarter must attend extra-help sessions as arranged by the teacher in order to be eligible for the remainder of the quarter.
There are no waivers to this eligibility policy.

EXPANDING HORIZON PROGRAM
This program is open to all students at SMS and is intended to expand what the students learn in the regular classroom. It takes place during the day, and students may miss a class or two for which they need to make sure they complete the work. Students are expected to do the work assigned and if they have difficulty keeping up with the work, they will be asked to leave the program. The subject area may change from quarter to quarter depending on the interests of the student body. Students are notified of the areas being offered at the beginning of each quarter and then they are to fill out an application to get into the program. A project may be required as part of the application process. The present subjects are simple machines, mechanical engineering competition robotics, SMS newspaper, graphics, photography, writing, web design, SMS radio station, and reading.

GUIDANCE/COUNSELING PROGRAM
The Guidance and Counseling Program is available to all students, their families and staff. Guidance at South Meadow is provided by the school staff. An advisor is assigned to each student in grade 5 - 8 to monitor progress, facilitate success and maintain parent communication. Counselors are used as a resource to the advisory process for students, parents and teachers.
The Counseling Program includes community and agency contact, collaboration on sensitive topics and crisis intervention.
Counselors meet students individually and in small groups on a short term/per need basis to provide support in a variety of areas. Counselors are available to teaching staff to co-teach classroom lessons which deal with issues of character and citizenship as well as to consult on individual students. Parent collaboration is a significant component of student success, and counselors encourage parents to use them as a sounding board or problem-solving resource.
Students may contact counselors through an advisor or teacher, or sign up for an appointment directly at the counselor's office. Parent and teacher referrals are always welcome. Feel free to call or stop by to make an appointment.

HEALTH
Any student entering South Meadow School from another school district is required by New Hampshire State Law to provide current immunization records before enrolling.
State of New Hampshire HE-P 301.13 states that a second dose of Measles Virus Vaccine is required of all students before entering the seventh grade. The State of New Hampshire requires all children entering sixth grade to be age appropriately immunized with Varicella Vaccine or documented history of the disease (chicken pox).
Any student who needs to take prescription medication while at school must have a permission slip signed by a physician and a parent/guardian. Medication must be delivered to the nurse by a parent/guardian or other adult. All medications must be delivered to school in the original pharmacy container. If a student needs an over-the-counter medication, a permission slip signed by the parent/guardian and possibly the physician is required. The medication must be delivered to school in a new, unopened container. As with prescription medication, this must be delivered to the nurse by an adult. Students are not allowed to carry any medication. The exceptions to this rule are asthma inhalers and epi-pens. In order for a student to carry this medication, the parent and physician must sign the medication form requesting specific permission to carry the medication. The nurse will meet with the student to assure knowledge and competency of self-medication. All medication must be picked up by the last day of school. If this is not possible, please call the nurse to make arrangements. All remaining medications will be discarded.

LATEX POLICY: Due to the rise in latex allergies, South Meadow School has instituted a proactive policy. In order to keep students and staff safe and healthy, we will no longer allow latex balloons, latex gloves, koosh balls, or like products in the building. This notice is posted on all entrances to the building.

INFORMATION CENTER
The school's Information Center is made up of a library resource center and computer room. Students may use the center to find books to read, find information for assignments and projects, borrow media equipment and use the computers for assignments. Information services such as CD-ROM and telecommunications are made available through the Information Center. The Information Center is open certain days after school. Please watch for announcements at the start of the school year.
Please refer to the South Meadow School Computer and Network Acceptable Use Procedure (AUP) found on page 25.

LOCKERS
All students will be assigned a locker within their grade level. The school administration reserves the right to search lockers of students during emergencies or when there is a reason to believe that lockers are being used for unwarranted or illegal purposes. STUDENTS SHOULD NOT BRING VALUABLES OR LARGE SUMS OF MONEY TO SCHOOL. The school cannot be held responsible for materials missing from lockers, individual packs, or clothing. Students are issued a lock for their lockers when their locker is not in their classroom. Responsibility for the lock rests with students and students must pay for the lock if it is lost. Replacement cost is $5.00.

LOST AND FOUND
A Lost and Found area is located in the lobby. Parents and students are reminded to check frequently for their boots, hats, coats and other apparel. Clothes which are not claimed at the end of each quarter are donated to local charities.

LUNCH/BREAKFAST
Breakfast is from 7:00 – 7:25 a.m. The cost for breakfast is $1.25. Individual breakfast items can also be purchased. We have lots of breakfast choices. Did you know the #1 thing that all top scholastic achievers have in common is eating a healthy breakfast? Get it here or at home, but please eat breakfast! It’s important to you!

Lunch is from 11:15 - 12:45 p.m. Lunch times for each team or class are determined based on quarterly schedules. Lunch is sold every day for $2.00 and includes milk. Milk may be purchased separately for $ .35. A variety of grinders are available that can be substituted for the entrée. Also available daily as an entrée choice is our fresh salad bar. Individual items can be purchased as well. There are plenty of fresh fruit and vegetable choices offered on the serving line every day. If there’s room for ice cream, there’s room for fruits and veggies! We want your input! Let us know what you like and don’t like. We’re always open to suggestions.

Lunch period is a time for relaxing as well as eating. School rules will be observed and moderate levels of conversation are accepted. Students are to observe the following:
&M Walk to lunch and wait your turn in line
&M Do not "cut" another student
&M Use good manners: say “please” and “thank you”
&M Clean up your place when you finish eating, return your tray to the dish area, scraping your tray to ensure it is clean
&M When a student’s lunch account has been depleted, he/she may charge ONE lunch. A second lunch may NOT be charged until the first charge is paid.
&M Money should be deposited to your account before school or during advisory to avoid slowing down the lunch line.

NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY
TITLE (s) Vl, Vll, IX
The Contoocook Valley School District, in accordance with the requirements of federal and state laws and of regulations which implement those laws, hereby declares that it is the policy of the School District, in its actions and those of its employees, that there shall be no discrimination on the basis of sex, race, religion, nationality, ethnic origin, age or handicap for employment in, or operation and administration of any education program or activity.
The policy of nondiscrimination is applicable to all persons employed or served by the Contoocook Valley School District. Any complaints or alleged infractions of the policy, law, or applicable regulations should be directed to: Keith Burke, Superintendent of Schools, SAU #1, 106 Hancock Road, Peterborough, N.H. 03458.

POSITIVE BEHAVIOR INTERVENTIONS & SUPPORT (PBIS)
The PBIS Universal Team assists the administration of the school. PBIS is composed of staff, parents, administrators and community members. The purpose of PBIS is to provide direction for the school. All staff meeting agendas, subcommittees, and proposals for new or revised programs come to PBIS before being discussed by the entire staff. PBIS meetings are announced ahead of time, an agenda is published, and minutes are released soon after the meetings.

PUMA TRACKS and ACTIVITIES CALENDAR
Throughout the school year many activities take place at South Meadow. Students are encouraged to participate in these activities. By doing so, students add very important and exciting experiences to their school lives. Students and parents may keep informed of which activities are being offered by reading Puma Tracks, the school's monthly newsletter and calendar of events. Puma Tracks can be accessed by visiting our school web page, www.conval.edu, and clicking on South Meadow School. An updated Puma Tracks is available at the beginning of each month.

PHILOSOPHY OF ASSESSMENT
Our goals are for students to develop and integrate knowledge, valuable skills, responsible attitudes and cooperative behavior. The purpose of assessing students is to collect and report information on individual student growth, achievement and behavior. Assessment is a continuous, descriptive, qualitative and quantitative process.
In the fall all students participate in the New England Commons Assessment Program
(NECAP) and all students will participate in the fall and spring in the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) published by North West Evaluation Association (NWEA).

REPORT CARDS AND HONOR ROLL
Report cards are issued four times a year. All courses are graded on an A-F scale.
Numerical equivalents are:
A+ 97 -100 B+ 87 - 89 C+ 77 - 79 D+ 67 - 69
A 93 - 96 B 83 - 86 C 73 - 76 D 63 - 66
A- 90 - 92 B- 80 - 82 C- 70 - 72 D- 60 - 62

Honor Roll
In grades six, seven and eight, the honor roll exists to recognize achievement. All courses count toward honor roll. This system reflects our belief that all aspects of student learning are worthy of recognition.
Eligibility is as follows:
Honors High Honors
1. 3.0-3.59 average 1. 3.60-4.0 average
2. Nothing lower than a "C" 2. Nothing lower than a "B"
and only one allowed 3. Effort/Conduct "3" or above
3. Effort/Conduct "3" or above

Numerical Equivalents for computing honor roll:

• A+ = 4.33
• A = 4.0
• A- 3.67
• B+ = 3.33
• B = 3.0
• B- = 2.67
• C+ = 2.33
• C = 2.0

Incomplete
Students who fail to complete all assigned work due to absences may be given an "Incomplete” (Inc) for a grade. The student must make up incomplete work during the first two weeks of the next quarter.
Teachers, with the approval of the administration, may extend these limits and continue the "Incomplete" until the work is made up. All course work not completed will be given a failing grade and averaged with the completed work in determining the quarter grade.

Student Placement
It is helpful for parents and students to be aware of the criteria for placement to the
next grade:
1. Regular attendance
2. Passing grades in course work
3. Completion of required service learning
4. Age-appropriate social development
These criteria will be reviewed at the end of the second quarter and at the midpoint of the third quarter.
Absence of more than eight days per year and/or two or more course grades with a "D" average will result in the development of a promotion plan and increased parent/school communication.

Final placement decision, with input from parents, staff and student will be made by the principal considering the individual student's accomplishment in relation to grade level expectations.

SCHOOL PARENT SUPPORT GROUP
Parents and other interested community members are involved with helping in classrooms, organizing special activities, assisting with team projects, serving as resources for curriculum projects and many other activities.

SERVICE LEARNING REQUIREMENTS
Remember to obtain the proper forms from your teacher/advisor and return them when they are completed.
Students who do not complete the requirement will not participate in end of year activities.

5th Grade - 5 hours
6th Grade - 10 hours
7th Grade - 15 hours
8th Grade - 20 hours

SKATEBOARDS/ ROLLERBLADES/ ROLLERSKATES
Skateboards and roller blades should not be brought to school. Use of skateboards or rollerblades on school property is prohibited.

SNOW DAY POLICY
The School Board has adopted a two-hour delayed opening policy as well as school closing for the 2005-2006 school year. The following television and radio stations will make the announcement:

WMUR Channel 9

AM: WBZ- 1030, WKBK- 1220

FM: WJYY - 105.5, WKXL - 102.3, WZID - 95.7, WKNE - 103.7, WNHQ - 92.1

If a delayed opening is announced, please continue to listen to the radio station. A delayed opening could be changed to a school closing if the road conditions do not improve.

SOCIAL EVENTS
Social events are held each year for students in Grades 7 & 8. One of these socials is a dinner-dance for Grade Eight only, held the week before the Farewell Ceremony.
Social events are a privilege granted to all appropriate school citizens who maintain adequate school attendance and satisfactory adherence to school policies. Any student who does not follow these guidelines may not be allowed to participate. This will be at the discretion of the teachers and administration.

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS
Our school is fortunate to have capable people to help us whenever our teachers are ill or attending conferences. A substitute teacher is an important visitor whose impression of our school will be carried into the community.
Let us be certain that these are good impressions by being as polite, helpful, and considerate as you would be to your teacher.

TELEPHONE
There are telephones located in every classroom. Students may use the phones in the classroom with teacher permission. The office telephones are for school business only.

VENDING MACHINES/SNACKS
Vending machines located in the gym hallway and outside the gym are for student use. Open beverage containers in any form are not allowed outside of classrooms.

VISITORS
All visitors must report to the school office and sign in prior to going elsewhere in the building. Student visitors are not permitted in the building during the school day. Student visitors are allowed to visit teachers/students after school hours after contacting the office and making an appointment.

South Meadow School
Computer and Network Acceptable Use Procedure (AUP)

Students are expected to follow the rules below when using computer technology at South Meadow School. Please read the AUP carefully and ask whenever something is not clear to you.

SECTION 1 - Acceptable and unacceptable uses of Computer Technology.

1. Users must log on using their own account name and password.
Specifically:
• a user may not use another's account nor allow others to use his/her account
• a user must keep his/her password secret
• a user will not try to find out another's password

2. Users' activity on computers must relate to work needed for class.
Specifically:
• a user must provide a class-related reason for anything on his/her screen whenever requested by a member of staff
• recreational use of computer is to be done only before and after class hours and then only with faculty permission
• when students are working away from their class area, their pass must state the purpose of their visit

3. Users must do their own work, abide by copyright laws and receive permission to use another's work before using it.
Specifically:
• users will not copy another's work and submit it as their own
• users will not use copyrighted images in work that is published in any way

4. Users must use the network in a respectful manner and report problems they encounter.
Specifically:
• users will follow school procedures for saving and printing files
• users will not stream audio or video content without permission
• users will respect the school web filter and will not attempt to bypass it
• users who suspect there is a problem with a computer, printer or network should report it to a teacher
• users should not attempt to fix a hardware or software problem or carry out a repair
• users who receive any communication that s/he finds offensive should report the incident to a teacher.

5. If users communicate online, they must use language that is respectful and decent.
Specifically:
• a user may use only communication accounts that have been provided by the school – no web-based, personal accounts
• online chatting or use of chatting software is forbidden unless facilitated by a member of staff
• a user must not use hateful, defaming, offensive or vulgar language in any e-mail or posting

6. Users will respect the work, privileges and privacy of other users including him/herself.
Specifically:
• users will not interfere in any way with the work of another student at any time
• assistance is to be given verbally - the use of another user’s mouse of keyboard is forbidden
• users will not seek to gain access to the files of other users
• users will not post or in any way communicate online any personal information about another student or staff member
• users will not give out personal information about themselves

7. Users will exercise restraint in their use of print resources, and take every precaution to avoid waste.
Specifically:
• a user is only to print single copies of any document unless permitted by the teacher
• all color printing is by permission only.
• a user is to set the print range for all print jobs.

8. Users are not allowed to download or to install programs on any computer.
Specifically:
• school computer and network staff will be the only people authorized to install and configure programs.
• a user may request additional programs to the computer and network staff.




SECTION 2 - Dangers that the Internet poses to students and what steps will be taken to protect students from those dangers.

The Internet contains many valuable resources and learning opportunities. Responsible schools recognize the dangers that exist online and take steps to minimize those dangers. It is widely held that no system is completely foolproof, but South Meadow School will take every reasonable precaution to keep its learning environment as safe as possible.

Dangers to Students:
1. Accessing material of a disturbing nature
• Sites which promote and glorify hate, violence, intolerance and racism
• Sites which feature sexual material of a pornographic nature
2. Sites which contain misinformation, propaganda and bias
3. Sites which use profane language
4. Sites which glorify the tobacco, alcohol and other drugs culture.
5. Sites which attempt to get students to identify themselves, join or register for something
6. Sites which provide free web-based e-mail accounts and/or live chat portals

Measures Taken by the School
1. User education sessions will be held at the beginning of each school year. These sessions will explain the Acceptable Use Procedure and clarify expectations for student Internet Use.
2. When students violate the Acceptable Use Policy, a user re-education session will be required if appropriate to the violation.
3. SonicWall filtering (or an equivalent) will be used to filter inappropriate sites on all computers used by students to access the Internet. The network administrator will add sites to be allowed or blocked as needed and requested by faculty.
4. Teachers will receive training in online computer management in the classroom. As part of this training, the practice of Managed Internet (strategies for promoting curriculum-related Internet resources) will be advanced.
5. It will be school policy to install online-capable computers only in locations that are directly supervised (i.e. in classrooms, library and lab; not in workareas where students are assigned to work on a pass.)
6. Supervision of users may include remote observation and will be indicated to the users by a menubar icon. Students will not be observed without their knowledge.


SECTION 3 - Netiquette guidelines for students*.

When students interact with others on the Internet, the following expectations will be in effect:
1. Remember there's a human being who will receive your message. How will s/he feel?
2. Use respectful language when communicating with others.
3. Be forgiving of others' mistakes.
4. Make messages clear and concise.
5. Type using upper and lower case letters (All caps is understood as shouting.)
6. Be careful when using humor - your reader cannot see facial expression nor hear vocal intonation.
7. Use emoticons to help you express your feelings.
8. Do not post personal, critical information about others.
9. Avoid communicating in a harassing or irritating manner.
10. Understand that no messages are completely private. They may be read by others and stored in places you do not know.
11. Do not send or participate in chain letters or mailbombs.
* Please see also Section 1, Item 5 in reference to this section

SECTION 4 - Student responsibilities when using the Internet for homework or schoolwork

When students use computers for homework or schoolwork, the school expects that they will try to...

1. have a clear written focus with focusing questions to help stay on track.
2. have and refer to the assignment as the teacher gave it.
3. have and refer to any handouts provided, especially those with criteria and how-to’s.
4. make an honest attempt before asking for assistance. (Be able to say what you've already tried.)
5. give help to others by coaching/talking not doing the work for them. (Hands on only your own mouse and keyboard.)
6. save work frequently (notes and references in a word processor)
7. back up work on a hard drive, especially if using a floppy disk, and in any case when working on an extended project.
8. use headphones if what is being browsed might distract other users.
9. read your own work and use a spell checker before asking others to be a reader/editor.
10. print only what is really needed and avoid waste.
11. save articles that you need to read and then work offline, if using a dialup connection.


SECTION 5 - School policy on examining students' user or e-mail accounts

1. Hard drives to store computer files and e-mail accounts are provided by the school district. They are the property of the school district.
2. It is not the school district's common practice to examine student computer files and e-mail accounts.
3. The school district will strive to protect students' right to free speech and privacy as defined by the U.S. Constitution.
4. The school district has the right to make sure its property is being used legally and properly.

Students' files and e-mail accounts may be examined in one of the following situations:
a. the student's parent requests it
b. there is reason to think that the student is saving or downloading material that is illegal, hateful, offensive or destructive
c. there is reason to think that the student is involved in an online relationship that could be harmful to the student or others
d. the student is suspected of creating and saving files that might cause computers or the network to malfunction.

If a reasonable examination of student files or e-mail account is needed...
• the examination will be done discretely so as not to cause the student undue embarrassment
• parents will be contacted and informed. Parents will be offered a meeting to discuss the examination, its cause and results.
• the student will attend if present at school.


SECTION 6 - Disciplinary actions that the school will take when a student has violated the school's Internet acceptable use policy

All incidents where a student has violated the Acceptable Use Policy will be treated individually and on its merits. Consequences will consist of one or more of the following:

• User re-education session to examine the violation and talk about future use
  

• A verbal warning
  

• Modifying the account to a guardian login (advisor keeps the password) for supervised-only computing
  

• Removal of Internet or all computer privileges for a period of time which is fitting for the violation
  

• Detention or suspension from school
  

• Referral to law enforcement