CMS Home Page

Principal's Newsletter

District Home Page

School Calendar
Daily Bell Schedule
Attendance Procedures
  Absences
  Appointments
 
Vacations
  Make-up Work
  Building Entrance Time
  Building Exit Time
  Tardiness to school
  Tardiness to class
  Truancy
Cafeteria Procedures
   Cafeteria rules
   Alternative Lunchroom
   Phone calls and Messages
Fire Drills
Grading System
Honor Roll
Homework
Renaissance Program
Report Cards
Special Reports
Promotion and Retention
Guidance Services
Gymnasium Functions
Hallway Conduct
Health Services (School Nurse)
Locker Information
P.E. Uniform Policy
Student Dress
Student Discipline
General Information
  Athletic Eligibility
  Student Insurance
  No School Announcement
  Telephone
  Lost and Found
  Bicycles
  Honor Roll
  Homework
  Renaissance
  Skateboards
  Snowballs
  Personal Items
  Sales To Students
  Visitors
  Transportation
  Withdrawal From School
  Computer Use
  School Dances
  Extra Curricular   Activities

Welcome

As a newcomer to Belvidere Central Middle School, we hope you will find this school year to be a memorable and exciting one.  Cooperation is, of course, the key, and towards that end we suggest that you read this handbook thoroughly.  It will tell you and your parents exactly what we expect of you and what services and benefits you might expect from the school.  We hope you will take both messages to heart.  May this year be one of the most rewarding in your school career.

Mission Statement
The focus of our educational program is to create a learning environment, which addresses the unique needs of early adolescents.

Beliefs
We believe our students have specific social, emotional, physical, and academic needs. 
We believe our students need assistance in the important transitions between
elementary school and high school. 

We believe that diversity is a strength and that mutual respect, cooperation,
and understanding are keys to success.

Belvidere Central Middle School Philosophy

The middle school is a unique entity.  It bridges the gap for students between elementary school and high school.  It must serve the educational needs of students during a critical phase of transition from childhood to adolescence.  During these years, preparation for future educational experiences must be planned with emphasis on the sound emotional and social growth of each student.
In considering the needs of the middle school age students, we recognize that the school for these students should be unique, with its own philosophy, purposes, and organization.  It should be organized to recognize and deal with the transitional nature of early adolescence and to meet the needs of a student population that is diverse in background, aspirations, developmental stages, and rates of growth.  The instructional program should create a balance between academic, social, physical, and personal growth.  Opportunities should exist for the development of both basic skills and a positive self-image.
Programs for early adolescents should provide an atmosphere conducive to the personal and educational development of young people.  Close student-teacher relationships and a child-centered approach to learning enhance this atmosphere.  The curriculum must be flexible, promote academic excellence, and encourage the development of each student’s individual talents, intellect, and curiosity.
 The educational process of each individual is a lifelong activity.  In order to provide each individual with a foundation on which to grow and mature, it is important to provide a variety of educational experiences.  Through these experiences, students will be able to explore, to discover, to develop individual talents, and to enhance feelings of positive self-worth.

 

 

 

 


 2009 - 2010 SCHOOL CALENDAR

All Staff Institute
August 18 and 19
First Day of Student Attendance
August 20
Labor Day (No School )
September 7
School Improvement Day (No school)
October 9
Columbus Day (No school)
October 12
End of First Quarter
October 23
K-8 Evening Parent/Teacher Conferences
November 9
K-12 Evening Parent/Teacher Conferences
November 10
Veteran's Day (No school)
November 11
Day before Thanksgiving (No school)
November 25
Thanksgiving (No school)
November 26
Day after Thanksgiving (No School)
November 27
Winter Break Begins (No School)
December 21
School Resumes
January 4
End of 2nd Quarter
January 8
Martin Luther King Day (No School)
January 18
School Improvement Day (No School)
February 12
Presidents’ Day (No School)
February 15
End of Third Quarter
March 16
K-12 Evening Parent/Teacher Conferences
March 25
School Improvement Day (No School)
March 26
Spring Break (No School)
March 29- April 5
School Resumes
April 6
Last Day of Student Attendance
May 25
Records Day (No school)
May 26

Report Card Distribution 

May 27
Emergency Days
May 28-June 4
Memorial Day (No School)
May 31

 

DAILY BELL SCHEDULE
 8:32 First Bell            8:38 Tardy Bell

Dismissal Bell 3:10

 ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES

Illinois State Law requires that all children between the ages of six and sixteen attend school.  State law mandates that parents must call the school when their child is absent from school.  Board Policy states that students can receive an excused absence when they are absent from school for the following reasons: 

1) death in the immediate family; 2) illness of the student; 3) serious illness of a member of the family which necessitates the absence of the student; 4) other absences which have had prior approval of the principal’s office.

 ABSENCES

 When a student is absent from school, parents should call the school (544-0190) as soon as possible after 8:15 a.m.  If parents do not call the school, we will attempt to call parents at home or at work.  Parents may find it more convenient to call the school.

 If students miss more than one instructional period – a ½ day absence will be marked per Illinois Code of Attendance.

 If parental contact has not been made, the school will accept a note from parents explaining absences.  The student should deliver the note to the office when he/she returns to school.
All absences will be considered unexcused until the school receives a phone call or note explaining the absence.
 

 APPOINTMENTS: Doctor, Dentist, etc.

 If at all possible, doctor, dentist, etc. appointments should be made during non-school hours.  If appointments during school hours are necessary, parents should notify the school, by phone or note, stating the nature and time of the appointment.  The student will be issued a pass to be excused from class for the appointment.

 Students should report to the office when they return to school.  They will be issued an admit to class.

 In the event that a vacation is scheduled during the school year, the student should contact the Belvidere Central Middle School office and the teachers ahead of time so that make-up work can be arranged.  Assignments are due upon the student’s return to school.

 We have schoolwork up to the final day of student attendance.  Students who leave early are required to complete all work, including tests, prior to leaving school.  Students who fail to do so may expect to receive zeroes for any work missed.

MAKE-UP WORK

Make-up work is the responsibility of the student, not the teacher.  Students should consult teachers as to work missed due to absence.  Make-up procedures may vary from class to class.  In general, unless a student has an extended illness, all make-up work must be completed within two days for each day absent. A maximum of five days is allowed for the completion of make-up work.  Students whose make-up work is not completed within the required time may be given a failing grade for that work.

 Students absent for one day or less should wait until they return to school, contact a fellow classmate for make-up work, or utilize the homework hotline for assistance.  Parents may request assignments for students who are absent two or more days.  We request twenty-four (24) hours notice for teachers to prepare make-up assignments.  Assignments may not be available from all classes.  Some work cannot be completed outside the classroom.  In some cases, students may be required to make up missed work before or after school.

 When time is spent preparing assignments and collecting books and materials, it is expected that the students will complete the work prior to returning to class.  When assignments are sent home, they must be completed when the student returns to school.

BUILDING ENTRY TIME AND PROCEDURES

School hours are from 8:38-3:10.  The first bell rings at 8:32.  Students should not arrive at school before 8:25 unless they ride district buses or are involved in a specific school related activity.

All bussed students will enter the south side entrance.  All students driven by their parents will enter the north side entrance.  These doors open at 8:15.

 No students are allowed in the building before 8:15.

After 8:15, students may go to their designated waiting area or to the Learning Center (LC). Students may only go to their classroom teachers if they have a pass. The LC is to be used only for studying.  Once a student enters the cafeteria (8th grade only) or LC, he/she is expected to remain there until dismissal at 8:32.  Students are dismissed by tables, after chairs are straightened and the area is clean. Students may not leave without permission of the supervisor.

BUILDING EXIT TIME AND PROCEDURES

The school day ends at 3:10.  Unless involved in a school related activity or with a teacher, students should not remain in the building or on the school grounds after 3:25

NOTE TO PARENTS: Students should not remain after school, in the building or on  school grounds unless they have a genuine, school-related purpose.  If the student insists on staying after school, make sure you know why!

TARDINESS TO SCHOOL

Classes begin at 8:38.  Students should plan to arrive by 8:32 to give themselves time to prepare for class.

Students who arrive late for school should report to the office to get a pass to class.  Parents should notify the school (note or phone call) to explain the tardiness.  Detentions may be assigned for unexcused tardiness.

TARDINESS TO CLASS

Students are expected to be on time for all classes.  There is ample time to get to any classroom in the building.  Student lockers are located directly outside their core curricular areas.  Movement to Encore classes will be directed by one of the Team faculty members.

Students are expected to be in their seat at the beginning of each period.  The classroom teacher deals with tardiness.  Most often a student will be assigned a detention for an unexcused tardy.  Habitual tardiness may result in an office disciplinary referral.

TRUANCY

Truancy is being absent without permission or valid reason from any scheduled class to which the student has been assigned.  Students who are truant will be assigned a detention to be served after school to make up for time missed from school.  A full day of truancy may result in up to five one-hour detentions and/or an In-School Suspension.

CAFETERIA PROCEDURES

*Subject to change during the school year.

Students are not allowed to leave school for lunch.  Students may bring sack lunches or buy lunch in the cafeteria.  Students may pay for lunches daily or prepay.  Students should use their pin number when buying lunch from the cafeteria.  This procedure applies to all students, including students who are eligible for free or reduced lunch.

 Neither ARAMARK nor the school will  loan money to students.

 Parents may not deliver fast food lunches to their children at school.

CAFETERIA RULES


1. Students should not "cut" in line or save places in lines for other students.
2. Students are not allowed to leave the cafeteria without permission of the supervisor.
3. Restrooms are located near the south main entrance.  Students must get permissions from the supervisor before using the restroom.
4. Cafeteria trays are not recycled.
5. Aluminum cans are recycled and should be placed in the proper container.
6. Students are responsible to make sure their area is clean.  Both the table and the floor must be clean before the students are dismissed.
7. Students may not leave the cafeteria until the supervisor dismisses them.  Students are dismissed by the supervisor one table at a time.
8. Failure to follow all cafeteria rules or engaging in any unacceptable behavior may result in assigned seats or suspension from the cafeteria.
9. Students are not allowed to loan or borrow money during lunch.

ALTERNATIVE LUNCHROOM

Students who do not follow school rules and policies while in the cafeteria may be assigned to an alternative lunchroom.  The alternative lunchroom is located in a classroom not being used for a regular class and is supervised by a teacher.  Rules for the alternative lunchroom are as follows:

1.
While in this room, the student must bring a sack lunch from home.
2. If the student does not bring a sack lunch from home, he/she will not eat lunch that day.
3. Students are to report directly to the alternative lunchroom.  They do not go to the cafeteria.
4. Students are to be in their seats when the bell rings.
5. No talking is allowed while in the alternative room.
6. Students must bring schoolwork to do each day and do it after eating lunch or the day will not count.
7. Only days of good behavior count toward the number of days assigned in the alternative lunchroom.

 PHONE CALLS AND MESSAGES

All phone calls to the office for rides and messages need to be to the school office no later than 2:30. Students will not be called out of class to take phone calls unless it is an emergency.

FIRE DRILLS, STORM WARNING DRILLS and EMERGENCY DRILLS

Fire drills, storm warning drills and emergency drills will be held throughout the year.  Evacuation instructions are posted in each room.  Students should become familiar with the evacuation procedures in each of their classrooms.

Students should move quickly and quietly to their designated area.  If a storm alarm should sound during passing time, students should go to the closest storm safety area.  If a fire alarm should sound during passing time, students should calmly leave the building from the closest exit.  Students should not leave school property unless directed to do so by a staff member.

Remember that these drills are designed to save lives in the event of an emergency.  They should be taken seriously.

GRADING SYSTEM

 Student achievement is graded on the following basis:

 90-100      A      (superior achievement)
 80-89        B      (above average achievement)
 70-79        C      (average achievement)
 60-69        D      (below average achievement)
 below 60    F      (failing work)
 

HONOR ROLL

The Honor Roll is published at the end of each grading period.  The purpose of the Honor Roll is to recognize those students who achieve excellence in their classroom work.  To be eligible for the Honor Roll, you must earn a minimum grade point average of 3.25 for all graded classes.  To compute one’s grade point average, each grade is given points as follows:

                      A = 4                B = 3                C = 2                D = 1                F = 0

Total your points and divide that figure by the number of subjects.  All subjects are to be used in the computation.  A grade of "F" automatically eliminates one from the Honor Roll.

To be eligible for an award at the end of the year, one must qualify for the Honor Roll each of the four grading periods.  Students who qualify for the Honor Roll all four grading periods in one year will receive an Honor Roll pin.  Students who qualify for the Honor Roll each grading period for three years receive a Presidential Academic Achievement Certificate.

HOMEWORK

Homework is a necessary part of each student’s educational program.  Each student is expected to spend some time on school assignments in addition to scheduled class instruction time to achieve satisfactory grades.  It is important that each student complete all homework assigned by the “due date”.  Use of the homework hotline is encouraged and can enable parents and students to receive timely homework information during both daytime and evening hours.

 RENAISSANCE PROGRAM

The Renaissance program is a student incentive program that recognizes and rewards positive behavior and achievement.  Folders, pencils, coupons, certificates, and other awards will be presented for good attendance, behavior, and grade improvement.  Mall discount cards will be issued to honor roll students who also have good attendance and behavior.

REPORT CARDS

Pupil progress is reported to students and parents formally four times per year.  Report cards are issued to students at the end of each nine-week grading period.

SPECIAL REPORTS

After the first four and one half weeks of each grading period, the parents will receive a mid-term grade/progress report for each class.  ENCORE will only send a notice to those students that are failing.

PROMOTION AND RETENTION

It is the policy of Belvidere Central Middle School to promote student to the next grade or retain students in the same grade based on the best academic program for each individual student.  Promotion or retention decisions are based on the completion and quality of all work in each subject for the year.

If a student receives an "F" or incomplete for the year in more than two subjects he/she will not be eligible for promotion to the next grade.  If at the end of the 1st quarter a student is failing an academic subject, mandatory attendance at Homework Club will be required.  All subjects, including physical education and electives, are considered for final promotion and retention decisions.  Students not eligible for promotion will be required to complete a summer school program in order to be advanced to the next grade level.

GUIDANCE SERVICES

Guidance Services are available to all students at Belvidere Central Middle School.  Counselors can help students adjust to school life.  Counselors can help students with future school and career plans.  Counselors are also available to discuss problems or concerns dealing with personal growth and social development.

While counselors may at times be involved in the solution of a discipline problem, the primary role of counselors is to foster positive student/school relationships.  If a student wants to talk to a counselor, he/she should set up an appointment with the counselor, who will see the student at an appropriate time.

Students are assigned to counselors by teams. However, students may request to see either counselor.  Counselor assignments are as follows:

6th Grade & Navigators 8th Grade   Mrs. Repka   7th Grade & the Team Quest 8th Grade   Mrs. Ramboldt

GUM/CANDY POLICY

Due to the many carpeted areas in our building, gum chewing is not allowed at Belvidere Central Middle School.  We request student cooperation in our policy of NO GUM CHEWING IN THE BUILDING.

Candy may be eaten only in the cafeteria during lunch or in classrooms when permitted by a teacher.

Chronic abuses of this policy may result in negative consequences during lunchtime or after school.

GYMNASIUM FUNCTIONS

Assemblies, concerts, and other programs are held on occasion.  The purpose of these activities is to provide entertainment, to gain knowledge, and to experience being in an audience.  On these occasions, the students of Belvidere Central Middle School have an opportunity to show guests and performers the courtesy and attention that are characteristic of our school.  Friendly and enthusiastic applause is welcome. Whistling, stomping, booing, and other unsuitable noises are not allowed.

Whenever in attendance at a function in the gymnasium, these simple rules should be followed:

ATHLETIC EVENT:

1. Be seated and stay in the gymnasium.
2. Do not leave until half time or after the games.
3. Have fun, but behave in a sportsmanlike manner.
4.Treat students from other schools as you would guests in your home.

CONCERTS, PROGRAMS, etc.

1. Be seated and do not disturb the people around you.
2. Do not leave until intermission or until the end of the program, unless it is an emergency.

We would like to encourage parents to pick up students promptly from after school and evening activities.  Please check with your student prior to each activity to be sure of the pick-up time.

HALLWAY CONDUCT

1. Walk on the right side of the hall.
2. Do not block traffic by standing in groups.
3. No shouting, ordinary conversation is acceptable.
4. No running, pushing, tripping, debooking others, etc.

HALL PASSES

Hall passes are required anytime a student is in the hall other than passing time.  The teacher who grants permission to be in the hallway gives hall passes.  Students without hall passes may be given a one-hour detention.

HEALTH SERVICES

The school nurse is not to be used for "free" medical advice.  If a student becomes ill in school, he/she should report to the nurse who will decide what should be done.  Students must not leave the building because of illness without authorization of school personnel.

If a student becomes ill in class, he/she should notify the teacher.  A student should receive a pass from a teacher to see the nurse; therefore the student should report to class before going to the nurse.

MEDICATION

It is expected that in most instances medication will be given at home and not in school.  Students who are on medication must bring the medication to the nurse’s office.  The nurse will supervise the handling of medication and in most cases instruct the student on self-medication procedures and safeguards.  This policy exists for all medications, even over-the-counter type medicine, including aspirin and cough drops.

For specific guidelines on medication procedures during school hours, please refer to the Belvidere Community Schools Parent Handbook.

LOCKERS

Each student will be assigned a locker.  To prevent problems related to lockers, the following guidelines must be followed at all times:

1. Do not share your combination with any other student.
2. Do not share lockers with any other students.
3. Keep your locker locked at all times, when not in use.
4. Keep your locker clean and neat at all times.

Students are reminded that lockers are the property of the school district.  Authorized personnel may inspect lockers any time it is felt to be necessary.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION UNIFORM POLICY

 All students must wear the Belvidere Central Middle School physical education uniform.  The uniform consists of:

  1. Gray shirts with black writing and black shorts with gray writing are the colors adopted by the school board for all 6-12 students.  Current uniforms may be worn until students grow out of them.

  2. Shorts which may not be worn low.

  3. White socks and tennis shoes which must be secured.

  4. Only "post earrings" may be worn in PE class.  They must be taped to prevent injuries.  In the interest of safety, some body piercings may be required to be removed rather than taped.

 A sweatshirt, sweat pants, and spandex shorts may be worn along with the uniform for certain weather conditions and activities or as deemed appropriate by the teacher.

NOTE:    All gym clothes must be adequately labeled for easy identification.  Student names should be imprinted on the outside of the uniform.

STUDENT DRESS

 One way students reflect their attitude toward school is in the way they dress.  The purpose of school is for students to learn.  Clothing which is inappropriate or disruptive distracts from the learning process.  Students should use good judgment as they choose their style of dress.  Some guidelines to follow are:

  1. Students and clothing should be clean.

  2. Undergarments should be worn only as undergarments.  Pajama pants and boxer shorts are not allowed.  Wearing pants so low that boxer shorts are exposed is unacceptable.

  3. See-through clothing should not be worn.

  4. Halter tops, extreme bare midriffs or bare shoulders (sleeveless) are unacceptable.
    (General Guideline:  Shirts/blouses are acceptable if the bottom of the shirt reaches the top of the belt line of the slacks, jeans, or skirt when students raise their hands above their heads.  Shorts should go to the bottom of the index finger when arms are fully extended at the side.)

  5. Hats, coats and sunglasses are not to be worn in the building.  These articles should be kept in the student lockers.

  6. Obscene words, phrases, or pictures on clothing are prohibited.

  7. Advertisements for alcohol, tobacco, or drugs on clothing are prohibited.

  8. Clothing which has been purposely torn, ripped, or cut off is prohibited.  If students wear pants with holes above the knees they will be asked to contact home for clothing that is appropriate.

  9. Dress and/or personal appearance, which are deemed to be disruptive (including inappropriate hair coloring), will not be permitted.

  10. Belts/chains may not be worn to the side.

  11. Students may not change clothes with other students after arriving at school.

  12. Make-up kits and personal cosmetics should remain in your locker at all times.

  13. Studded jewelry (rings, collars, wristbands) is not allowed.

  14. Writing on or carving any area of the body is not permitted.

Wearing any of the above examples of inappropriate clothing will result in the student being required to change before being admitted to class.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE

The most effective form of student discipline is self-discipline.  Students must show respect for authority and concern for the rights and privileges of others.  Our policy is to strive for the highest standards of behavior in school, at school-related activities, and in the community.  Courtesy and respect must be maintained toward staff members, substitute teachers, fellow students and visitors.  Disruptions of our educational programs caused by inappropriate behaviors will not be tolerated.  District discipline policies and rules are in effect at all school-related activities, on all district property, and while students travel to and from school activities.

All of us want to have strong and effective discipline.  We ask for the total support of parents and students in our efforts to maintain a productive educational environment.

CLASSROOM DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES

Each teacher has behavioral rules which students must follow.  Rules may vary slightly between teachers.  Each teacher informs students of specific rules and consequences for failure to follow classroom rules.  Consequences for classroom disruptions vary, dependent upon the seriousness and/or frequency of the student infraction.  Generally, discipline procedures follow a progression of consequences, from warning, to removal from class, until the unacceptable behavior stops.  However, a student may be immediately removed from class for serious infractions.

SCHOOL-WIDE DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES

Administrators at Belvidere Central Middle School use a variety of consequences when dealing with inappropriate student behavior.  The ultimate goal is to encourage students to improve and change their disruptive behavior.  If a student is referred to the office for disruptive behavior of any kind, action may involve a variety of consequences.  Definitions of these consequences are listed below.  While these consequences are listed according to the order in which they are often used, final decisions are based on the seriousness and/or frequency of the student infraction.  The consequence imposed is at the discretion of the administrator.

DEFINITIONS AND EXPLANATIONS:

Warning:
Explanation of behavior and expectations.

Conferences:
Conferences may be held between the teacher and the student.  They may also include parents, counselors and administrators.

Parent Contact:
Contacting a disruptive student’s parents is often the most successful solution to discipline problems.  Parental contact may be made by phone or in writing.

Detention:
Detention involves a student spending additional time after school to make up for time lost due to disruptive behavior.  Detention may be assigned by individual teachers or by the administration.  Students will be given one full day’s notice of a detention to enable the student to make arrangements for transportation.

Failure to report for detention will result in an additional detention or consequence.

Removal from Class:

A student may be removed from an individual class for continued disruptive behavior.  Removal  from class may be for one day up to the remainder of a quarter.

In-School Suspension:
Generally, suspensions are in-school suspensions.  Students are removed from their regularly scheduled classes and assigned to a suspension room.  Very strict rules apply for in-school suspensions.  Students are required to work on homework or special assignments.
If a student is disruptive in any way during an in-school suspension, he/she will be suspended out-of-school.  While serving an in-school suspension, students are not allowed to participate in any school activity.
Out-of-School Suspension:
If assigned an Out-of-School suspension, a student will be sent home and not allowed to attend any classes or school activities.  The student may not be present on school district property during the suspension period.  Out-of-school suspensions may be assigned for serious and/or repeated infractions of school rules.  Out-of-school suspensions may last from one to ten days.  Upon receiving an out-of-school suspension, makeup work will be given upon the request of the parent.
Expulsion:
Expulsion involves removing a student on a more permanent basis.  Expulsion occurs when the misconduct is of such a grave nature that student attendance is disruptive to the educational process and/or dangerous to the student or others in the school environment.  Any student expelled from a District #100 school is prohibited from being present on District #100 property or attending any district-related activities during the duration of the student’s expulsion.
The following list of student consequences is a guideline to be used at the discretion of the building administration.  Consequences listed are generally maximum penalties.  A series of steps or consequences may precede the maximum consequences or the maximum penalty may be imposed.  When suspension is indicated, this may be an in-school suspension unless specifically stated.  The administrator determines whether a suspension should be in-school or out-of-school.

A.
Disruptive Behavior and/or Insubordination (to include laser pointers)
 
  1st Offense:       1-3   day Suspension
    Subsequent:      1-10 day Suspension

 B.
Profanity
    1st Offense:       1  day Suspension
    Subsequent:      1-10 day Suspension

C.
Threatening another Student (verbal or physical intimidation-including racial slurs and sexual harassment)
   1st Offense        1-3   day Suspension
   Subsequent       1-10 day Suspension

D. 
Fighting
    1st Offense        1-5   day Suspension
    Subsequent       5-10 day Suspension, Recommendation for Expulsion
Voluntary spectators, or those who encourage, contribute to, or cause further discipline to a fight situation will also be subject to disciplinary action.

E. Vandalism/destruction of School District Property
   1st Offense:       1-5   day Suspension, Payment for Damages, Police Referral
   Subsequent:      5-10 day Suspension, Payment for Damages, Police Referral

F. Verbal Abuse of Staff  (profanity, derogatory language, gestures)
   1st Offense:       1-5   day  Suspension
   2nd Offense:      5-10 day  Suspension, Recommendation for Expulsion

G. Possession/use of Tobacco ( any variety )
   
1st Offense:       3   day Suspension
   2nd Offense:     10   day Suspension, Recommendation for Expulsion

Belvidere School District #100 board policy calls for a smoke-free environment on all district property at all times.  The No Smoking Policy applies to all students, staff, and parents.

H. Alcohol, drugs/paraphernalia (use and/or possession of)
   1st Offense:       5     day suspension, Police Referral
   2nd Offense:     10   day suspension, Police Referral, Recommendation for Expulsion

I. Sale/distribution of alcohol, drugs, prescription drugs, and/or look-alike drugs/alcohol
   Any Offense:     10   day Suspension, Police Referral, Recommendation for Expulsion

J. Gang-related activity (to wear, possess, distribute, display, draw, or sell any jewelry, clothing, emblem, badge, symbol, sign or other
    activity of a secret society or gang including electronic devices such as pagers)
    1st Offense:       1-5   day Suspension, Police Referral
    2nd Offense:      5-10 day Suspension, Police Referral, Recommendation for Expulsion

K. Extortion (obtaining money, property or services of any sort by threats)
   1st Offense:       1-5  day Suspension, Police Referral
   2nd Offense:      5-10 day Suspension, Police Referral, Recommendation for Expulsion

L. Theft   
    1st Offense:       1-5   day Suspension
    2nd Offense:      5-10 day Suspension, Police Referral,  Recommendation for Expulsion

M. Weapons and/or Look-A-Like Weapons (possession and/or use of)
    Any Offense:     5-10 day Suspension, Police Referral, Recommendation for Expulsion

N. False Fire Alarm, Bomb Threat, Setting Fires, Firecrackers, etc.
   1st Offense:       5-10  day Suspension, Police Referral, Recommendation for Expulsion
   2nd Offense:      10     day Out-of-School Suspension, Police Referral, Recommendation for Expulsion

O. Pornographic Material (magazines, books, technology, etc. )
    1st Offense:       1-5  day Suspension
    Subsequent:      5-10 day Suspension, Police Referral, Recommendation for Expulsion

P. Public Displays of Affection (holding hands, hugging, kissing, and inappropriate touching )
   1st Offense:       1-3 day suspension
   Subsequent:       1-10 day Suspension

Q. Academic Dishonesty (cheating, plagiarizing, wrongfully giving or receiving help, and wrongfully obtaining test copies or scores)
    1st offense:   Zero on assignment/test.
    2nd offense:  Zero on assignment/test and 1-3 day suspension

GROSS DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR
Up to 10 days Out-of-School Suspension for any offense, notify police, notify parent/guardian, possible recommendation for expulsion.

 GENERAL INFORMATION

ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY

Students who participate in athletics or cheerleading/poms should remember it is mandatory to maintain acceptable grades in their subjects. Eligibility is determined each week based upon the cumulative grade for that grading period.

Students who are failing one or more subjects will be ineligible.  This will result in the following restrictions:

1. Not dressing for, or participating in, any interscholastic game or activity.
2. Not being permitted to travel with any group for purpose.
3. These restrictions will remain in effect for a minimum of one week or until such time the deficiency has been corrected.

STUDENT INSURANCE

Premium costs make it impractical for the district to provide accident insurance for students.  However, a low-cost insurance program is available through a private company for students who wish to take advantage of the program.  Information is given to the students on registration day.  If you take advantage of the program and an accident should occur, the student should report to the office to get a medical form which, in turn, must be reported to the school nurse.

NO SCHOOL ANNOUNCEMENT

In case of inclement weather, the no school announcement will be made over local radio and TV stations, at approximately 7:00 A.M.  The decision of another district does not mean District #100 will  automatically close.  Please do not call the school as our phones are needed for emergencies.

TELEPHONE

Local telephone calls may be made from the office in the event of an emergency.  Students must have permission from a teacher to use the phone.  Use of the telephone should be limited to necessary calls only.  We do not take messages for students from friends.  Long distance calls may be made only from the office phone with permission from one of the office personnel. 

LOST AND FOUND

If you find any personal or school property, please leave it in the office.  If you lose an item, be certain to ask about it.  The quicker we know about the missing article the better our chances or returning it.  One should check several times to see if the item has been turned in.

SUPPORT GROUPS

There are several special groups designed to meet the diverse needs of BCMS students.  Some examples are eating disorders, self-esteem, and anger management.  Information about available groups can be obtained by contacting Mrs. Sheila Repka in the guidance department.
BICYCLES

Bicycles should be parked in the racks and not thrown on the ground.  Bicycles cannot be housed in the school.  If your bike cannot be kept outside, do not bring it to school.  We suggest you lock your bicycle for safekeeping.
SKATEBOARDS/ROLLER BLADE

Skateboards, roller blades, and tennis shoes with wheels are prohibited on school property (including school busses).  This is due to safety and insurance concerns.
SNOWBALLS
Throwing snowballs is not allowed on or near school property.  Law prohibits throwing snowballs at vehicles
PERSONAL ITEMS

1. Do not bring toys or playthings, Magic/Pokeman cards, or laser pointers to school.
2. School officials will not spend valuable time looking for such toys that may have been lost or stolen.
3. Only school approved books or magazines should be brought to school.
4. Students are urged not to carry a large amount of money to school.  If you do, please leave it in the office for safekeeping.
5. Large "Magic Markers" or permanent markers of any kind are not allowed at school.  They will be provided in art class as needed.
6.While students are allowed and encouraged to use book bags, they may not be carried from class to class throughout the day.      Remember book bags and large binders will not fit in the school lockers.
7. Personal radios (Walkman/Discman, MP3 Players, etc.) are not to be utilized during school hours from 8:30-3:10.
8. Notebooks and notes for the purpose of personal correspondence with friends are not allowed.
9. During school hours the use by students of cellular telecommunication devices is prohibited.  Cell phones should remain in student's locker and turned off.  Any abuse of this policy could result in disciplinary action.

 SALES TO STUDENTS

Students are not allowed to sell such items as candy or gum to other students, either for personal profit or as fund-raising projects for non-school organizations.

VISITORS

1. Parents may visit the school at any time.  Please make appointments in advance of your visit.
2. All visitors must report to the office.
3. Students from other schools are not allowed in the building during school hours.

BUS TRANSPORTATION OF STUDENTS

Any student wishing to ride a bus other than their own must have parents contact transportation at 544-9766 to receive permission.  This decision will not be made at the building level.

STUDENTS MAY NOT UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES BOARD A SCHOOL BUS AT ANY OTHER SCHOOLS IN THE DISTRICT! 

WITHDRAWAL FROM SCHOOL

If you move from the school district or withdraw from the school during the year for any reason, you should notify the attendance office. You will be given a form to take to each of your teachers.  Have your teacher fill in the necessary information and return the form to the office.  You should check with your teachers prior to your last day to make sure you have your work completed and all fees and fines paid.  In this way, you will make sure that you have all necessary items taken care of and that your grades may be sent to your new school upon their request.

A waiver form needs to be completed for students being "home schooled".

COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY

The use of student owned software on school computers is not allowed
Students shall operate computers only under direct teacher supervision and all use must adhere to the district policy of school
appropriate content.
Students using computers shall not violate copyright laws.
Students attempting to change settings, remove files and/or modify files on district computers or networks are subject to disciplinary action by the administration.
Students attempting to use other user passwords or otherwise break into district networks are subject to disciplinary action by the administration.
Students attempting to damage computer equipment are subject to disciplinary action by the administration.
Student access to the Internet is available only through supervision by a teacher.

SCHOOL DANCES

A number of school dances will take place throughout the school year.  Attendance at these dances will be related to “good behavior”.  Students referred to the office and/or suspended from school may not be eligible to attend these events.  The final decision will rest with the building administrator.

BCMS EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

                                                                                                                                                                                         

Sports

Clubs

Music

Volleyball Student Council Band
Football Drama Club Chorus
Cross Country Jobs Jazz Band
Basketball (Boys and Girls) Academic Bowl IMEA
Cheerleading Math Counts Flags
Poms Recycling  
Wrestling Spelling Bee
Track Peer Mediation  
Park District Sponsored Bowling Geography Bee  
Intramural Tennis (Possibly) Homework Club  
Intramural Volleyball (Possibly) Yearbook Club  
Intramural Soccer (Possibly) Lego Club  
     


DISCLAIMER

All school rules whether listed or not listed are subject to changes as may be needed to insure continued compliance with federal and state laws and the Board of Education policy or as necessary for the routine operation of the school.

 


Copyright 2005 www.district100.com All Rights Reserved