Policies and Handbook Information
Academic Dishonesty Policy | Activities | Activity/Athletic Trips | After School Academic Program (ASAP)

Attendance Policy | Breakfast | Cafeteria Rules | Change Of Address | Classroom Policies | Detention
Discipline Policy | Dress Code | Emergency Drill Instructions | Food Service Policies | Grading System
Hallway Behavior | Health Services | Homeroom | Honor Roll | Inclement Weather – No School
In-School Suspension (ISS) | Internet Safety | Late Arrivals Or Early Dismissals | Late Work Policy
Lunch Period | Make Up Work Policy | On-Line Services/Internet Access | Parent-Teacher Conferences
Passes | Personal Property | Prepared For Class Policy | Progress Reports | Saturday Detention
School Bus Discipline Procedures | School Bus Rules | School Property | School Use Regulations
Sportsmanship | Student Behavior Code | Student Recognition | Student Services | Tardy Policy
Tornado/Severe Storm Procedure | Transportation | Visitors | Withdrawal From School

SPORTSMANSHIP
The Board of Education and the staff of GMS are committed to a spirit of good sportsmanship as a means to achieve exemplary citizenship and to enhance the image of our school community among students, patrons, and guests of our district. To enhance and promote our sportsmanship and citizenship goals, all students, sponsors, and fans representing our district are expected to display exemplary levels of sportsmanship during all school sponsored events and activities. (JDE) 

We ask that students take pride, not only in GMS facilities, but also in the positive reputation established by former students. This can be done by maintaining a clean building and creating an atmosphere in which everyone feels welcome. To receive respect, one must give respect. All students must show respect for each other as well as any guests at GMS. The ability to win and lose with dignity is important. GMS prides itself on positive school spirit. Our goal is to continue that tradition every year.


ACTIVITIES
An activities director is available for scheduling and organizing athletic events, field trips, dances, concerts, and other school-related activities. The activities director also has the necessary forms and information concerning student participation and eligibility for interschool athletics.

A well-rounded program of activities is available at GMS.  In order to be eligible to participate in school activities a student must:

  1. Demonstrate satisfactory work in all content areas and be a student in good standing.
  2. Demonstrate proper conduct in and out of school. Your sponsor will explain the specific requirements for proper conduct and citizenship.
  3. Have on file in the office a completed physical form, provided by the Kansas State High School Activities Association and signed by both a doctor and a parent.  Physical exams must occur after May 1 each year to be valid for the following school year.
  4. Have on file in the office a combined insurance and activity form for each sport in which you participate.
Attending activities is considered a privilege. Students who are asked to leave a school-sponsored activity for violations of the behavior code may not be allowed to attend future activities.
ACTIVITY/ATHLETIC TRIPS

All students who ride the bus on activity trips must return on the bus unless their parents bring them home. Parents may also come to the office prior to each activity and sign a form granting the school permission to release their students to another designated person. All students who ride the bus back to school must be picked up at the school within thirty (30) minutes of arriving at school. Any student that has been suspended from riding the bus by the transportation department cannot participate in any school activity that requires bus transportation.
HEALTH SERVICES

GMS has the services of a health nurse.  During the second semester, all eighth grade students receive an eye examination. This test is mandated by the state.

The school nurse does not provide medicine, treatments, or make diagnoses. She only provides first aid and cannot give prescription medication of any kind without a USD 265 Medication Policy form, completed by a doctor and placed on file in the nurse’s office. In addition, all over the counter medicine administered at school requires that parents complete a USD 265 Medication Policy form. Students are not allowed to carry medications with them or keep medications in their lockers. For more information contact the school nurse.

In order to protect from possible serious complications and to protect other students from possible exposure to diseases, students who are ill should not come to school.  It is the duty of the school to send home any student who appears to be ill or is suspected of having an infection or contagious disease. School health rooms are to care for those students who become ill or injured at school. Students who become ill or injured at school must check out through the nurse’s office. Students should not call parents from a classroom or cell phone.

It is the responsibility of the parents to make arrangements to have ill or injured students picked up either by the parents or by persons the parents designate. No student shall be permitted to transport other ill or injured students home.

No child will be dismissed from school until parents, or other designated responsible persons, are contacted at home or work. Emergency numbers should be made available to the office and updated regularly.

The school nurse will complete a report for any accident that occurs at school or school-related activities. The school will exercise every precaution to avoid accidents in class, during activities, or while being transported. Should students have accidents or injuries, they should report to the supervising adult or the office immediately.


STUDENT SERVICES
Counselor – Counseling services are available for personal, social and educational counseling, both individually and in groups.  The counselor visits with students about concerns, arranges class schedules, keeps student records, and administers and interprets various assessments.

Library – The library is open from 7:30 A.M. to 3:30 P.M. each school day. Books are checked out for two weeks. After that there is an overdue fine of five cents per day if students do not recheck books. Magazines, vertical files, cassette tapes, videotapes, encyclopedias and other reference materials and books used for research are checked out for overnight only. Overnight items are due by 8:00 A.M.  A fine of five cents per school hour (.35 per day) is charged on late overnight items.  Students will be charged a repair fee for library items with repairable damage. Library books are purchased with special binding to endure a long shelf life and are not replaced on a cycle. Therefore, if a book is destroyed or lost, the full replacement cost will be charged. (JS)

Lockers – The lockers in the schools of the district shall be under the supervision of the building principal and assigned to the student for the storage of school materials and clothing necessary to school attendance. (JCBA-R) Each student will be assigned a locker. Students should not share lockers or combinations. Students are not permitted to switch lockers with other students. The school reserves the right to search a student’s locker to maintain the integrity of the school environment and to protect other students. Each individual student is responsible for the contents of his/her assigned locker at all times and will be held accountable for the contents of his/her assigned locker. If a student is issued a PE lock, the student must return the lock at the end of the semester.  If it is not returned, the student will pay the replacement cost of $5 per lock. Students are not to decorate the inside or outside of lockers using tape or any other sticky material. Decorating the outside of student lockers is prohibited without the approval of the administration.

Lost and Found – Any found articles should be turned in to the office. After attempting to find the owner, items will be placed in the blue cabinet in the student commons area. Found library books and textbooks will be returned to teachers. Lost articles should also be reported to the office. Items that are not claimed after 30 days may be disposed of in a manner approved by the administration.

Pride Card – The Pride Card is a photo identification card that allows students free admittance into home sporting events at both USD 265 middle schools.  The Pride Card may be purchased for $6.

Student Photo – All students will have individual school pictures taken in the fall and spring.  Fall pictures are used for the yearbook and student identification cards. Pictures will be available for purchase, but there is no obligation for students or parents to purchase pictures.

Telephones – The student telephones are for business only, not visiting with friends. We will not call students out of class to take non-emergency telephone calls.  We will, of course, allow students to receive or make emergency calls to parents. Parents may call the office and leave messages for their students.

Student Sales – Students are not allowed to sell products or solicit funds for any individual or organization at school if it is not school sponsored. 

Field Trips – Throughout the year academic teams or other special areas may sponsor field trips. If permission slips (and money, if required) are not returned by the established deadline, students will not be allowed to attend the field trip. A faxed copy of the actual Field Trip Permission Form will be acceptable. No other faxed permission statements will be accepted. Parents may also come to the school and sign a permission form to meet the deadline. This must be done by the end of the school day on the due date specified on the form. A student suspended out of school or assigned in-school suspension the day of the field trip will not be permitted to attend the field trip. Students who violate the behavior code while on a field trip may not be allowed to attend future field trips and may face disciplinary action by the sponsor or the administration.


VISITORS
Visitors must check in through the office.  Students will be called to the office for parents or other family members in emergency situations.  If a visitor wishes to see a teacher, the office will check with that teacher before the visitor is sent to the classroom.  In an effort to provide a safe environment for our students and staff, we ask that all visitors wear a visitor’s pass while in the building.
Parents are cordially invited to visit the school at any time.  Should questions or misunderstandings arise, parents are urged to contact teachers and the administration so that a better understanding and cooperative solution may be reached.
INCLEMENT WEATHER – NO SCHOOL

When inclement weather threatens to cause school to close, please listen to one of the local TV stations. Television stations notified are KSNW-TV 3, KAKE-TV 10, and KWCH-TV 12. All major radio stations are also notified. Information should be on the air after 6:00 A.M., depending on the situation. If school is closed, school office telephones will have a recording with that information.
LATE ARRIVALS OR EARLY DISMISSALS

Any student arriving late to school should always check in at the office before proceeding to class. Students leaving during the day need to check out through the office and check back in if returning later that same day. Notes pertaining to early dismissals or any absences should be turned into the office during Homeroom. 
CHANGE OF ADDRESS

If a change of address or telephone number occurs, report the change to the office immediately.
WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL

If a student is withdrawing from school, parents must contact the office. This should be done by the next to last day of attendance.  Checkout procedures will be explained at that time.
EMERGENCY DRILL INSTRUCTIONS

When an alarm for fire or other emergency is given, it is to be considered an emergency, where human life is at stake.  All persons should move in an orderly manner to the exits prescribed.
TORNADO/SEVERE STORM PROCEDURE

Warning:
  1. An announcement will be made through the intercom system.
  2. If electricity is off, an air horn will be used to sound warning.
General Instructions:
  1. When a class arrives at its assigned area, students should go to the southwestern-most part, remain close to the walls, and assume a position on the floor – either on knees or sitting with head down to the floor.
  2. Teachers should open windows in the classrooms if possible.
  3. STAY DOWN AND STAY AWAY FROM WINDOWS AND DOORS.
  4. Shelter must be taken immediately and all people must remain in assigned locations until they receive proper notification.
FIRE PROCEDURE
Warning: 
  1. Long continuous bell on the alarm system.
General Instructions:
  1. In all cases students should move away from the building so those still in the building will not be detained from their exits.
  2. Students must not slow down until they are at least 100 feet from the building.  This will provide plenty of room for others and plenty of clearance in case of falling debris.
  3. All people should remain in assigned locations until they receive proper notification.

HOMEROOM
Homeroom is a time for preparation and silent reading while important tasks--taking daily attendance, taking an accurate lunch count, making daily announcements, and allowing students time to complete homework or get assistance from teachers--are completed. In addition, activities related to Student Council and Publications are conducted. Various informational meetings are held during Homeroom throughout the year. Homeroom is part of the students’ school day and all students are required to report to school for Homeroom.

Students who are not in their assigned classrooms at the beginning of Homeroom are considered tardy. A student tardy remains unexcused without a valid excuse, and once unexcused tardies to Homeroom exceed three or more, they must be made up in Saturday detention in accordance with the tardy policy.

According to BOE policy, the following are deemed as valid excuses: personal illness, death in the family, doctor or dental appointments, court proceedings, religious observances, school activities and other absences which are deemed necessary by the parents and approved by the administration. Parents must call the school or send a note the day of the tardy stating the reason for the tardy.


CLASSROOM POLICIES
At GMS, we are committed to providing a quality education to all students. To ensure this happens, we ask that students regularly attend school, arrive to class on time, come to class prepared, complete assignments when due, and display appropriate behavior. To assist students in assuming responsibility for these expectations, policies have been established.
ATTENDANCE POLICY

Each regularly enrolled pupil at Goddard USD 265, grades K-8, shall attend school in accordance with the compulsory school attendance law (see JBD-R). Absences, which accompany valid excuses, (see JBD) will be excused. An absence is unexcused without a valid excuse. The principal or assistant principal(s) shall be responsible for determining the validity of offered excuses for absence from school. Unexcused absences may result in disciplinary action appropriate to each grade level, which includes, but is not limited to, detention, in-school suspension, or Saturday School. Unexcused absences may also result in a student being reported to appropriate authorities. Students with excessive absences may be required to provide additional documentation.

The following are deemed as valid excuses within the limits of the attendance policy: personal illness, death in the family, doctor or dental appointments, court proceedings, religious observances, school activities, and other absences which are deemed necessary by the parents and approved in advance by the administration.

Administrators will communicate with parents to ensure every effort is made to encourage regular school attendance by all students. Letters will be mailed, per compulsory school attendance law, when students receive three (3) consecutive unexcused absences or five (5) unexcused absences in a semester or seven (7) unexcused absences in a school year (see JBD-R and JBE).  In addition, a letter will be mailed when any student accumulates 10 or more absences, excused or unexcused, in one semester.


TARDY POLICY
Students are expected to be in their assigned seats, or location designated by the teacher, when the bell rings. Students arriving late to classes will be excused or unexcused by the classroom teacher.

1st Tardy – Teacher conference with student.
2nd Tardy – Teacher detention assigned.  Parent notified by the teacher.
3rd Tardy – Office Referral – 1 hour of Saturday detention/parent notified.
4th Tardy – Office Referral – 2 hours of Saturday detention/parent notified.
5th Tardy – Office Referral – 3 hours of Saturday detention/parent notified.
6th Tardy – Office Referral – 4 hours of Saturday detention/parent notified.

Each subsequent tardy will result in 4 hours of Saturday detention. Tardies start over at the beginning of the second semester for all classes. If students fail to serve an assigned Saturday detention, the time will be doubled for the following Saturday. Failure to serve the second Saturday detention will result in ISS.


LATE WORK POLICY
Students are expected to complete and turn in all assignments when they are due. Late work submitted within 24 hours of when it was due is accepted for 70%. After that, no credit will be given for the assignment.
MAKE UP WORK POLICY

Students have one day for every day absent to make up work for all excused absences. It is the student’s responsibility to turn in and/or pick up assignments prior to missing class for any school-sponsored activities.
If students are absent for two consecutive days with a valid excuse, parents can call the office by 10:00 A.M. to request all homework for students. This homework can be picked up at the office after 2:30 P.M. that day.
PREPARED FOR CLASS POLICY

Students are expected to come to class prepared. Each teacher/academic team determines the required items for their classes. Students who repeatedly come to class unprepared may be referred to the administration and assigned Saturday detention. Each subsequent referral will result in additional hours being assigned.
DISCIPLINE POLICY

Students who behave inappropriately are subject to the following process in every class. In cases of serious behavior violations, certain steps may be bypassed.

1st Offense – Teacher conference with student.
2nd Offense – Teacher detention assigned.  Parent notified by the teacher.
3rd Offense – Office Referral – Administrative Detention/parent notified.
4th Offense – Office Referral – ISS/parent notified.

Each subsequent referral will result more severe consequences.


PASSES
Students will receive three passes per class each nine weeks. The passes are located in the student agenda book. Students must use agenda book passes for any requests to use the restroom, go to locker, or get a drink. At the teacher’s discretion, students may be required to use passes for other reasons such as going to the office or library.

Students must present passes to teachers when requesting to leave or permission will not be granted. Teachers reserve the right to deny students’ requests to leave at a particular time if it is a crucial time in class. Teachers can require students to use passes if they are unprepared for class. One pass each nine weeks may be used to retrieve homework from lockers without a grade penalty. Using remaining passes for homework will be the discretion of the teachers/academic teams.

If students lose agenda books and purchase new ones, they forfeit all passes for that nine week period in which this occurs. Once a new quarter begins, students can resume using passes. If students use all three passes or lose them, but insist they need to leave the room, students may be allowed to go in exchange for time before/after school with that teacher. Without passes, students must receive a consequence if they are allowed to leave the room.


STUDENT BEHAVIOR CODE
A. Disruption of School
A student shall not use any conduct to cause the substantial and material disruption or obstruction of any lawful function of the school.  Neither shall a student urge other students to engage in such conduct for the purpose of causing a disruption or obstruction of any lawful function of the school.

The unacceptable conduct shall include but not be limited to:  (1) occupying any school building, school grounds or part thereof with intent to deprive others of its use; (2) blocking the entrance or exit of any school building or corridor or room therein with intent to deprive others of lawful access to or from, or use of, the building or corridor or room; (3) setting fire to or damaging any school building or property; (4) firing, displaying, or threatening use of firearms, explosives, or other weapons on the school premises for any unlawful purpose; (5) preventing of or attempting to prevent by physical act the convening or continued functioning of any school, class, or activity or of any lawful meeting or assembly on the school campus; (6) preventing students from attending a class or school activity; (7) continuously and intentionally making noise or acting in any manner so as to interfere with the teacher’s ability to conduct class; (8) written or verbal threats against self, other student(s) or staff member(s).

A student shall not cause or attempt to cause damage to private property or attempt to steal private property either on the school grounds or during a school activity. (JCDA-R)

B. Verbal/Physical Assault on School Employee or Student
A student shall not cause, attempt to cause, or verbally lead another to believe he/she may cause physical injury or bodily harm to another student, school employees and volunteers, or persons employed by vendors and other providers of contracted services:

  1. On the school grounds or property during, before or after school hours.
  2. On school grounds or property at any other time when the school is being used by any school personnel or school group.
  3. Off the school grounds at a school activity, function or event.
If it is reasonably believed the act was self-defense or an action was necessary to protect some other person, then it will not be considered an intentional act under this rule. Retaliatory, aggressive behavior will not be considered self-defense. (JCDA-R)

C. Camera Use
Cameras may be used at school, on school property or at school activities or functions only if they are not disruptive, as determined in the sole discretion of school staff. Cameras shall not be used in the classroom without the permission of the teacher. Cameras shall not be used in such a fashion as to inappropriately invade the privacy of others.  No Cameras shall be used in any restroom, dressing area or locker room without the consent of those being photographed. Cameras shall not be used to record confidential material, such as tests, without consent.

Cameras shall include film cameras, movie cameras, digital cameras, video cameras, cellular telephone cameras, videophones, internet web cameras and any other device capable of taking, storing, transmitting or viewing pictures or images. (JCDA-R)
 

D. Bullying
Goddard USD 265 will not tolerate behavior that infringes on the safety of any students.  A student shall not bully, intimidate or harass another student through words or actions.  Such behavior includes, but is not limited to: direct physical contact, such as hitting or shoving; threats; verbal assault, such as teasing or name calling; and social isolation or manipulation. 

This policy applies to students on school grounds, while traveling to and from school in school provided vehicles, while waiting for the arrival of, or immediately following the departure of any school bus at designated school bus stops and at school-sponsored activities whether on or off campus. (JCDA-R)

E. Weapons and Dangerous Instruments
A student shall not possess, handle, or transmit any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon:

  1. At school
  2. On the school property
  3. At a school sponsored event 
This shall include any weapon, any item being used as a weapon or destructive device, or any facsimile of a weapon. (JCDBB)

F. Electronic Devices
The use of electronic communication devices by pupils on school property during the school day is prohibited.  This includes, but is not limited to, pagers, cellular phones and other communication equipment that has potential to be disruptive to the educational process.  Items intended to look like or simulate such devices are also prohibited.  Pupils found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to the following: 1st Offense: Property will be seized and returned to the student at the end of the day. 2nd Offense: Property will be seized and returned only after a parent conference. (JCDA-R)

G. Use of Trained Dogs to Promote Drug Free Schools
In order to promote a drug free environment, the Board of Education authorizes the use of dogs specifically trained to detect drugs to search the facilities and the grounds of USD 265 including any vehicles on USD 265 property. (JDDA-R)

H. Narcotics, Alcoholic Beverages, Drugs and Controlled Substances
A student shall not possess, sell, use, transmit, distribute, or be under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, any unprescribed controlled substance, drug look alike, drug paraphernalia, or alcoholic beverage of any kind:

  1. On the school grounds during, before or after school hours.
  2. On school grounds at any other time when the school is being used by any school personnel or school group.
  3. Off the school grounds at a school activity, function or event.
Use of a drug authorized by a medical prescription, for the user from a registered physician, shall not be considered a violation of this rule. It shall be considered a violation of the rule for a student to possess, use or distribute any prescription drug for which the student does not have an authorized medical prescription from a physician.  Additionally, it shall be considered a violation of the rule for a student to distribute a drug for which they have an authorized medical prescription from a physician to any other student(s).  (JDDA)

I. Repeated School Violations
A student shall not fail to comply with a reasonable request of school personnel during any period of time when the student is properly under the authority of school personnel. (JCDA-R)

J. Tobacco
District property is to be tobacco-free.  The Board of Education believes that a tobacco-free policy is important in establishing an appropriate learning and working environment for students, teachers and the public.  The use of tobacco products in any form is prohibited at all times in or on all district real estate (including parking lots) or personal property (including vehicles) whether owned, leased or rented, or at any school-sponsored event.  Any student who violates the terms of this or any other tobacco policy shall be subject to the following disciplinary action:

1st Violation: Discipline report, mandatory parent conference and appropriate law enforcement officials will be contacted and a citation issued.

2nd Violation: Up to a three-day out of school suspension, appropriate law enforcement officials will be contacted and a citation issued.  A student found in second violation of the tobacco policy may be offered a tobacco cessation program as an option to suspension.

3rd Violation: Up to a five-day out of school suspension, appropriate law enforcement officials will be contacted and a citation issued.  A hearing for a long-term suspension will be held.

Any student who violates the terms of this or any other tobacco policy shall be subject to the above discipline in accordance with district policy and Kansas law (K.S.A. 79-3321:3322).  Nothing in this policy is intended to diminish the right of the district to take any other disciplinary action that is provided for in Kansas law or district policies. (JDDB)

K. Fighting
1st Offense: 3 days ISS
2nd Offense: 3 days out-of-school suspension.
3rd Offense: 3-5 days out-of-school suspension and a hearing may be held for a long-term suspension or expulsion from school.

L. Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment will not be tolerated in the school district.  Sexual harassment of employees or students of the district by board members, administrators, certified and support personnel, students, vendors and any others having business or other contact with the school district is strictly prohibited.  Any student who believes he or she has been subjected to sexual harassment should discuss the problem with the principal, assistant principal, guidance counselor, or another certified staff member and appropriate action will be taken. If the matter is not resolved to the satisfaction of the student in this meeting, the student may initiate a complaint under the district’s discrimination complaint procedure.  The filing of a complaint will not adversely reflect upon the individual.  Confidentiality shall be maintained throughout the complaint procedure.  (JGEC)

M. Racial Harassment
Racial harassment will not be tolerated in the school district. Racial harassment is unlawful discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin under Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Kansas Acts Against Discrimination.  Racial harassment of employees or students of the district by board members, administrators, certified and support personnel, students, vendors and any others having business or other contact with the school district is strictly prohibited.  Racial harassment is racially motivated conduct which: 1) Affords a student different treatment, solely on the basis of race, color or national origin, in a manner which interferes with or limits the ability of the student to participate in or benefit from the services, activities or programs of the school; 2) Is sufficiently severe, pervasive or persistent so as to have the purpose or effect of creating a hostile academic environment; 3) Is sufficiently severe, pervasive or persistent so as to have the purpose or effect of interfering with a student’s academic performance or ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities or programs of the school.  Racial harassment may result from verbal or physical conduct or written graphic material. Any student that believes he/she has been subject to racial harassment should discuss it with his/her principal, assistant principal, guidance counselor, or another certified staff member.  The filing of a complaint or otherwise reporting racial harassment shall not reflect upon the student’s status or grades.  To the extent possible, confidentiality will be maintained throughout the investigation of the complaint. The district will take prompt corrective action to end the harassment. Any act of retaliation against any person who has filed a complaint or testified, assisted, or participated in an investigation of a racial harassment complaint is prohibited.  False or malicious complaints of racial harassment may result in corrective or disciplinary action against the complainant.  If the matter is not resolved to the satisfaction of the student, the student may initiate a formal complaint under the district’s discrimination complaint procedures. (JGECA)

Consequences of Violations
Violation of any provision of this behavior code may result in ISS, a short-term suspension of up to 10 days and/or long-term suspension or expulsion. (JDD-R)
Kansas Law 72-8902 (A-1) states: “A suspension may be for a short term not exceeding 10 school days, or for an extended term not exceeding 90 school days. An expulsion may be for a term not exceeding 186 school days. If a suspension or expulsion is for a term exceeding the number of school days remaining in the school year, any remaining part of the term of the suspension or expulsion may be applied to the succeeding school year.”

Students are not allowed at school or at school activities while suspended. Assignments need to be completed so that students will understand the information covered during their absences.


SCHOOL PROPERTY
The school grounds, buildings and equipment should be cared for with the greatest of respect.  Students will be responsible for the replacement/repair costs of any property damaged or destroyed and may face disciplinary action. Textbooks that are damaged but repairable will require a repair fee. If the book is damaged beyond repair or lost, a replacement fee will be charged. The textbook replacement fee will be prorated on the basis of the full years remaining on a six year book life. If lost textbooks are recovered in the same condition as when issued, funds paid will be refunded. (JS)
PERSONAL PROPERTY

Students should not bring personal items (iPods, M3P players, pagers, cameras, laser pointers, skateboards, etc.) to school unless a teacher has requested them and they are a useful part of their class work. Such items may be taken from students and kept in the office. Personal items such as music players or game consoles that are used during the longer bus routes should remain stored in students’ lockers during regular school hours. The district is not responsible for loss or damage to any personal property even if the personal property is lost, stolen or damaged on school grounds.
SCHOOL USE REGULATIONS

No group may use the building after school hours without the presence of a staff sponsor. Use of the building must have the approval of the principal. Any community groups wishing to use any part of the building must make arrangements through the activities director at least one week prior to the date of usage.
HALLWAY BEHAVIOR

Students are expected to conduct themselves in an appropriate manner while in the hallways of GMS. Students should progress to designated area in an orderly fashion, adhering to the following rules:
  1. No running, jumping, or skipping. Students should walk at all times.
  2. Keep hands and feet to themselves. Students should not bother other students or their property.
  3. No public display of affection is allowed. This includes holding hands, hugging, kissing, etc.
  4. Do not disrupt the flow of traffic by congregating with friends. Move to the commons area to visit.
  5. Use appropriate language at all times.
  6. Show respect for others at all times.
  7. Show respect for school property. This includes, but is not limited to, lockers, wall displays, water fountains and restrooms.
Students sent to the office for violations of hallway behavior will be subject to the following consequences: 1st Offense: conference with administrator; 2nd Offense: detention; 3rd Offense: one day of ISS; 4th Offense: three days of ISS/alternate passing periods. Further incidents may result is additional consequences. In cases of more serious violations, certain steps may be bypassed.
ACADEMIC DISHONESTY POLICY

Cheating is defined as using someone else’s work or answers (on daily work, projects, or tests) rather than your own.  This may include, but is not limited to, illegally copying, sending or distributing any copyrighted material or software, or plagiarizing any published work. (JU) Both the person copying answers and the person supplying answers will be considered as having cheated.
  1. All work will be collected and both parties will receive zeros on work, including tests.
  2. Students will complete the academic dishonesty form explaining the incident. The form is signed by parents and returned to the teacher.  If the form is not returned, the student and teacher will contact parents to explain the incident.
  3. Excessive incidents of cheating will result in an administrative referral.

DRESS CODE
Students should be dressed and groomed appropriately for the school setting.  Because of different interpretations of what is or is not appropriate, the administration reserves the right to ask anyone whose appearance is disruptive and/or not in good taste to make necessary adjustments.  All rulings by the administration will be final.  The school dress code also applies to all student activities under the direction of the school.
  1. Shorts must reach mid-thigh in length and may be worn year round.  Short-shorts, boxers, or swimsuits are not to be worn.  Cut-offs may be worn if trimmed appropriately.
  2. Mesh, see-through, halter, crop, and spaghetti strap shirts may be worn but only with a shirt under them that adequately covers a person. Low cut tops and tops that expose the midriff may not be worn. 
  3. Sweat/jogging suits may be worn only if they are neat in appearance. Pajamas and slippers may not be worn.
  4. Biking shorts, leggings, or similar snug fitting shorts or pants may not be worn – even under other loose fitting clothes.
  5. Sagging of pants is not allowed.
  6. Apparel containing text or graphics that promote or suggest violence or other inappropriate content are not to be worn.
  7. In order to maintain a safe school environment, the wearing of a clothing color, apparel or accessories in any manner that denotes gang affiliation will not be allowed.  Students are to store coats and large equipment bags in their lockers. (JCDB)
  8. Chains are not allowed. These include, but are not limited to, wallet and watch chains. Jewelry deemed dangerous such as wristbands and neck collars with spikes are not allowed.
  9. Hats, bandanas and other head apparel may not be worn in the building.
  10. Shoes with wheels are prohibited.
Students need to take pride in their personal appearance and all attire must be such as to contribute to a neat appearing student body that promotes a positive atmosphere for learning. (JCDB)
LUNCH PERIOD

Students are required to remain at school during the lunch period. The school will not accept deliveries on behalf of students for lunch. All students must report to the lunchroom during their designated lunch time and remain there till dismissed. If parents opt to take their students out for lunch, students must sign out and back in through the office, and they are expected to return within the allotted lunch time before class resumes.
FOOD SERVICE POLICIES
  1. All lunch money must be turned in to the office by 9:45 A.M. to be credited to the lunch account on that day.
  2. Students with a zero balance who forgot to bring money may charge up to $5 on their accounts for school lunch only. Charging for snack bar items is strictly prohibited. Once students reach a negative $5 balance, they will not be allowed to purchase items until they have put money into their accounts.
  3. Students are responsible for memorizing the key pad number for lunch purchases. Students who forget their pin number may be sent to the back of the line to ensure all students get an adequate amount of time to eat.
  4. Students are responsible for keeping track of their lunch account balances. Low account balance forms are not sent home with students. Attempts to inform students when balances reach $5 will be made at the registers. Balances can also be tracked by parents through NutriKids.
  5. Students may not purchase lunches for other students from their lunch accounts.
  6. Students paying with cash should not bring anything larger than ten-dollar bills.

CAFETERIA RULES
  1. Running to lunch, cutting in line, or eating in line is not permitted.
  2. When finished eating, students are to empty trays, return them to the kitchen, and go back to seats in the cafeteria.
  3. No food, drinks, or cafeteria items are to leave the cafeteria. The only exception is clear bottled water.
  4. Throwing food, or any other items, is not permitted.
  5. Students must be in the designated cafeteria area during their lunch periods unless excused by the cafeteria supervisors.
  6. Students are not to stop at their lockers when dismissed from the cafeteria.
  7. Disrespectful behavior towards the cooks or lunch supervisors will not be tolerated.
  8. Theft of food items or use of another student’s lunch card without consent will result in ISS.
Violations of these rules will result in students cleaning tables for 10 days. Students who fail to report to clean tables will receive additional days. Students who accumulate an excessive amount of days will also be assigned to the isolation table.
BREAKFAST

GMS offers a breakfast program for all students. Breakfast is served beginning at 7:05 A.M. The kitchen will remain open until 7:35 A.M. Students eating breakfast are still expected to be in homeroom by 7:40 A.M. All breakfast items must remain in the cafeteria and cannot be taken to homeroom.
DETENTION

Detentions may be assigned before or after school.  Teachers will supervise the students who have been issued detentions.  After-school detentions will last until the late bus arrives unless otherwise stated. If students fail to serve assigned detentions, the detentions will be doubled. Failure to serve the doubled detentions will result in two hours of Saturday detention. Parents will be notified when detentions are assigned.
SATURDAY DETENTION

Saturday detention is an approved discipline measure to assist in deterring unexcused absences, missed detentions, tardies, truancy and other discipline problems identified in the school. Only the administration can assign Saturday detentions as a consequence.
  1. Saturday detention will be held from 8:00 A.M. until 12:00 noon.
  2. Students will be assigned 1 to 4 hours of Saturday detention.
  3. Students who are late to Saturday detention will not be admitted. Students leaving early will not be credited time served.
  4. No food, sleeping, or visiting will be allowed during Saturday detention. Students will not receive credit for any disruption during Saturday detention. 
  5. Schoolwork or reading materials must be brought to Saturday detention.  Failure to bring work will require the teacher to assign work packets to be completed during the time assigned.
  6. If students fail to serve an assigned Saturday detention, the time will be doubled for the following Saturday. Failure to serve the second Saturday detention will result in ISS. Students who repeatedly fail to serve Saturday detentions may receive 1-3 days of ISS and/or out of school suspension.
  7. Passes will not be issued during Saturday detention.
  8. There is no transportation provided to and from Saturday Detention. Parents are responsible for transportation.

IN-SCHOOL SUSPENSION (ISS)
The ISS room is designed to provide a reasonable and related consequence for inappropriate student behavior and violation of school rules and policies.  Students will generally be assigned to ISS for a maximum of three days. During this time, the student will be under the direct supervision of a certified teacher.

While in ISS, students will complete classroom assignments and homework from regular classes.  Any tests given in the regular classroom will be made available for students to complete in ISS.  In addition, students will be asked to complete a written assignment related to their inappropriate behavior or rules/policy violation.  Failure to comply with the rules and procedures in the ISS room will result in additional time being assigned or an out-of-school suspension.

Students will not receive credit for any regular classroom assignments that require their presence for a participation grade, i.e., P.E., shop, music, technology, or band. Students will not be allowed to participate in any activities on the day(s) they serve an ISS assignment, i.e., no athletic or academic practices, contests, dances, or other school-sponsored activities. Students involved in extracurricular activities that are assigned ISS for the first time will miss the next scheduled competition. Students assigned ISS a second time will be dismissed from their respective teams.


AFTER SCHOOL ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (ASAP)
ASAP is a mandatory program for all students who allow grades to fall to an F in the core academic areas (science, math, social studies, English, reading). Teachers will submit a list of failing students to the principal every Friday morning. The principal will send notices to the students by 2:40 P.M. each Friday. Students who receive notices must plan to report to ASAP the following week, Monday-Thursday from 2:50-3:30 P.M., to work on assignments to improve grades. Students are responsible for communicating this to parents. New notices will be delivered every Friday so students who raise their grades above failing or make adequate progress in raising grades will be exempt from ASAP the following week and as long as grades remain above failing. Being disruptive in ASAP will result in one warning, then ISS. Students who do not report to ASAP when assigned will receive Saturday Detention. Students who remain in ASAP for several weeks will be removed from ASAP and put on a strike system. Strikes will result in Saturday Detention. 
TRANSPORTATION

Students may at any time be denied the privilege of riding the school bus because of disorderly conduct, refusal to obey bus rules or failure to follow the driver’s instructions. The transportation Discipline Coordinator will process violations of bus rules, and disciplinary measures may be taken. If you have questions concerning transportation, you may contact the Transportation Department at 794-4291.

School assignments are based upon students’ home addresses. School buses will only pick up and deliver students to addresses within students’ assigned school attendance area. Transportation will not be provided to any addresses outside students’ school attendance area.

Parents may designate one pick up location and one drop off location for transportation purposes, within the student’s assigned school attendance area. Students will not be given permission to ride another route or be dropped off at another location during the regular route or late route. Only the principal, in cooperation with transportation, can grant exceptions to this rule. Permission may be granted only after speaking to parents and only for emergency circumstances.

A bus will be provided for after school instructional or discipline purposes only as determined by the GMS staff. (JGGR-3)


SCHOOL BUS RULES
For the safety of our passengers, Goddard School District has a list of bus rules and regulations that must be followed by all students who ride school buses. The rules apply anytime students are riding a school bus, which includes regular routes, late or activity routes, and field trips. 
  1. The driver is in charge of all passengers when they are riding, loading on or unloading from the bus.
  2. Any act which may endanger the safety of others may be cause for temporary or permanent suspension of bus riding privileges.
  3. Prior to loading pupils must be on time and outside at the bus stop. In extreme weather students may wait inside but must be on the way to the bus as it approaches. The bus cannot wait beyond its regular schedule for those who are tardy.
  4. At the bus stop riders shall conduct themselves in a safe manner at all times. Students should walk on the far left-hand side of the road facing traffic when going to the stop and should never stand in the roadway. If students must cross the street to board the bus, they should do so only after being directed by the driver and looking both ways. Students should wait, single file, until the bus comes to a complete stop and the red safety lights are flashing before attempting to enter the bus. The bus will stop at least six feet away from the closest student.
  5. When boarding the bus students should go quickly and quietly to assigned seats. On the bus, students should face forward in the seat at all times and keep feet on the floor.
  6. Students should obey the driver promptly and courteously and keep conversation volume low. Unnecessary conversation with the driver is prohibited while the bus is moving.
  7. Students should keep arms, head and all parts of body inside the bus at all times.
  8. Students should assist with keeping the bus clean and free from trash.
  9. Students should treat bus equipment with respect. Damage to seats or other parts of the bus must be paid for by the offenders. Any damage to the bus should be reported at once to the driver.
  10. Students should not tamper with the controls or equipment on the bus.
  11. Students should not throw anything out bus windows.
  12. Students should keep books, bags, coats, feet and other objects out of the aisle. All musical instruments and other personal items must be taken by the student to the seat. If items are too large for students to hold without depriving other students of their seats, then other arrangements must be made for transporting these items.
  13. Students must remain seated while the bus is in motion.
  14. Absolute quiet is required at railroad crossings. Drivers may also demand silence of passengers when faced with adverse driving conditions such as snow and ice.
  15. Smoking or chewing tobacco, possession of alcohol or illegal drugs, swearing, use of obscene language, unacceptable gestures or signs, harassment and moral offenses are prohibited.
  16. Eating or drinking while on the bus in an unsafe practice and is prohibited.
  17. After leaving the bus, students should never cross behind the bus but should cross in front of the bus after being signaled by the driver and checking traffic in both directions. Students should remain off the roadway until the bus pulls away and should never return to the bus after de-boarding.
  18. It is recommended students have a book bag in which to carry all loose items to avoid the danger of chasing after a paper or other items that may drop under the bus.
  19. Bus passes will not be accepted by the driver if they are crushed, spindled or mutilated.

SCHOOL BUS DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES
The following procedures will be used on all Goddard USD 265 school buses and in the loading area:
  1. If a student breaks one or more of the bus rules, the bus driver will give a verbal warning.
  2. 2nd Offense: A “bus discipline notice” will be given to the student to take home.
  3. 3rd Offense: The parents will be notified by the supervisor of transportation, and the student will be suspended from riding for one to three days.
  4. 4th Offense- Student will be suspended of bus privileges for five days.
  5. Additional offenses may result in suspension of bus privileges for an indefinite period of time, which could include the remainder of the semester or school year.

ON-LINE SERVICES/INTERNET ACCESS
Use of the computer network is a privilege, not a right.  The fundamental rule for use of district network resources is that all use must be consistent with the district’s educational goals and behavior expectations.  Compliance with the policies that follow will provide students the opportunity to use on-line services.
  1. All use of on-line services or internet must be in support of education and research.
  2. Users will not use the network for anything contrary to law, or to solicit others to break any law.
  3. Users will not use the network for purchases on-line, or for commercial or for-profit purposes.
  4. Use of the network for non-school related communication is prohibited.
  5. Students will not use the network for product advertisement or political lobbying.
  6. Network accounts are for authorized users only.
  7. Communications via the network should not be assumed to be private or privileged information.
  8. No use of the network shall serve to disrupt the use or work of others; hardware, software, or files shall not be destroyed, modified, or abused in any way.  Students will not make any attempt to harm or destroy the data of any other user or any system on the network, including creating or sending computer viruses or similar computer codes.
  9. Malicious use of the network is prohibited.  Students must not harass other users or attempt to infiltrate any part of this or other systems.
  10. Hate mail, harassment, discriminatory remarks, or other antisocial behaviors are prohibited.
  11. Students must not illegally copy, send, or distribute any copyrighted material or software or plagiarize any published work.
  12. Use of the network to access, send, or publish obscene, objectionable, or pornographic material is prohibited.
  13. Students will not use their full names, or give out their home phone number or home address in any internet publication.
  14. Students will not attempt to access material or sites that are blocked by the district, or attempt to use the network while access privileges are suspended.
  15. Students should not store or obtain certain file types that include, but are not limited to, mp3, wav.exe’s, source code, virus files or other file types not licensed to the Goddard Public Schools.
  16. Students should ensure logging out in a timely manner or away from workstation.
The Goddard USD 265 District reserves the right to log and monitor Internet and computer use.  The district reserves the right to remove a user from the network if any of these policies are violated or to prevent further unauthorized activities.  Students agree to abide by the terms of this policy and the district rules for acceptable use.  Any violation may result in access privileges being revoked, and school disciplinary and/or appropriate legal action may be taken. (JU)

VIOLATION OF CONDITIONS:
Upon receiving notification of a violation of district rules or policies, the administrator may suspend or terminate a user’s network privileges.  The administrator may access any and all relevant files of the user in attempting to determine the extent of the violation.
Prior to a suspension or termination of network use, or as soon after as is practicable, the administrator will inform the user of the suspected violation and provide an opportunity for explanation. This is not to be construed as permitting any student to have due process rights in connection with the privilege of operating District technology. (JU)


INTERNET SAFETY
Students are required to comply fully with the district Acceptable Use Policy (JU). When using the Internet, students shall not access material that is obscene, pornographic, “harmful to minors,” or otherwise inappropriate for education use. Any violation of district policy and rules may result in loss of school-provided access to the Internet. Additional disciplinary action may be determined in keeping with existing procedures and practices regarding inappropriate language or behavior. When applicable, law enforcement officials may be involved. (JUA)
PROGRESS REPORTS

Students are issued progress reports during each nine-week period to take home to parents. Parents also have access to grades, attendance, and other student information through our parent information system. Parents can contact the school for password information.
GRADING SYSTEM

In order to provide some continuity among classes, the following grading system is being used in all Goddard Schools. Incomplete work becomes a failing grade if not made up in sufficient time.
 
A 95-100 
A- 90-94
B+ 87-89
B 83-86
B- 80-82
C+ 77-79
C 73-76
C- 70-72
D+ 67-69
D 63-66
D- 60-62
F 0-59

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES
Parent-Teacher Conferences are scheduled once each semester.  Parents are encouraged to call for a conference during these times.  Team plan times are frequently used for parent-teacher conferences throughout the year.
HONOR ROLL

The Honor Roll will be used to recognize academic achievements. Honor Rolls will be compiled after each quarter. The Honor Roll will be figured on a 4.0-point system: A = 4.0, B = 3.0, C = 2.0, D =1.0, F = 0.0. High Honor Roll = 4.0 GPA; Honor Roll = 3.00-3.99 GPA.
STUDENT RECOGNITION

GMS encourages all students to display behavior that portrays a responsible, resourceful, respectful student. To encourage this behavior, the following recognition activities have been established:
  1. Proceeds from PTO will be used to award one seventh grade student and one eighth grade student $10 every Friday. To be eligible, students must have zero absences, tardies and discipline referrals for that week. 
  2. Proceeds from PTO will be used to award one seventh grade student and one eighth grade student $10 every Friday. To be eligible, students must have agenda books completely filled out for that week.
  3. Student of the Month – All teachers will select a Student of the Month for exemplary effort and attitude in that content area for that particular month. Student names will be displayed in the classroom, on the Wall of Fame, and in our monthly newsletter. Students will receive a certificate.
  4. Random Acts of Character – Students will be presented with a token of appreciation if a GMS staff member catches them performing an act that demonstrates one or more admirable character traits.
  5. Parent Postcard - All staff will mail postcards home to parents to recognize positive contributions by students that they have witnessed.
  6. Recognition Assemblies - Students will be recognized formally three times a year for academic and extra curricular accomplishments.
  7. Honor Roll - Parents will receive bumper stickers/window clings the first time their student earns honor roll status. All honor roll students are recognized at the recognition assemblies.
  8. Birthdays - All students will receive an ice cream certificate for their birthdays. Summer birthdays will be acknowledged in May or August.
  9. Wall of Fame - Student/staff accomplishments are noted on the wall circling the front of the gym. 
  10. Citizenship Award - One boy and one girl from the eighth grade class earns this KSHSAA award during the May recognition assembly. Teachers select the recipient based on admirable character traits modeled throughout middle school years.

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