Parent/Student Handbook
2007-2008

PHILOSOPHY

We believe that the Barre Town Middle and Elementary School is the one social agency that has direct contact with the future citizens of our country, and, as such, should draw support from all segments of the community. Therefore, an interested citizenry will provide our children with the best facilities, staff, and instruction that can be afforded.

A child must be accepted as a person with a desire to learn and a need to succeed if learning is to continue. Since children learn in varied ways and at different rates, instruction and learning opportunities should be varied, flexible, and stimulating to the learner, allowing for individual and group learning. While acquiring skills, the student should also be relating facts to reality and acquiring the ability to apply knowledge to new problems and situations.

Teachers and school administration should provide a stimulating learning environment and have established objectives for each learning level. With these goals in mind, the teacher, with parent cooperation, will seek to guide the individual student to continued achievement while constantly evaluating progress. School directors, staff, parents, and students should reflect the basic values that contribute to a well ordered, law abiding society.

It is the desire of the Barre Town staff and community that our school offer the finest of elementary and middle school experiences. We are proud of our students. We are proud of our school. We will continue to dedicate ourselves to the task of providing a safe and positive atmosphere within our school so each student may have the opportunity to receive the best education that we know how to provide. Within this environment we hope that each student may become all that he or she is capable of being.

- from the Barre Town School Board Policy Manual -

MISSION STATEMENT

The Barre Town School community commits itself to providing educational excellence for all its students. To this end we commit ourselves to a planned, continuous, and cooperative school improvement effort. This effort will include a training and development process based on the best practices resulting from current research and encompass the areas of: school leadership, climate, student and program expectations, curriculum and instructional practices, parent and community involvement, student and program evaluation.

SCHOOL HOURS

It is important that children not be dropped off at school earlier than 7:45 or 8:45 respectively.

LUNCH/RECESS SCHEDULE

ABSENCES

A student returning to school after an absence must bring a note signed by a parent explaining the reason for the absence. If a student is absent for three consecutive days, the nurse will call the parents to verify illness. We encourage parents to call the school before 10:00 a.m. on days when students are absent to report the absence. Please feel free at that time to request homework be sent home with a sibling or neighbor.

ABSENTEE CALL-BACK SYSTEM

If a student's name appears on the absence list, a parent volunteer will attempt to call the home, work, or a child-care provider to confirm that the student is safe. We will try to make the call in the morning. Since we do not have 100% call coverage, parents are asked to call the school and leave a message when their child/children are not expected to attend.

AFTER-SCHOOL, NON-SUPERVISED ACTIVITIES – GRADES 1-6

Any student wishing to stay on the school premises for an unsupervised activity must go home on his/her regular bus and then return, thus absolving the school of any liability. These activities could range from use of the recreation field to being a spectator at sports events.

<<back

AFTER-SCHOOL, NON-SUPERVISED ACTIVITIES - GRADES 7 AND 8

In the past, Barre Town School has not only discouraged students from staying after school to use the recreation facilities, but we have not permitted students to do so unless they went home first and then were delivered back to the fields by their parents. We have changed this procedure in an effort to provide our 7th and 8th grade students an opportunity to enjoy the many recreational facilities that have been made available to them by their community. This change allows a student to go ice skating immediately after school. It allows students to play basketball on the outdoor courts. It allows students to go to the skateboard park, to play baseball, to take a walk, to play tennis, etc. This change will require certain understanding on the parent’s and the children’s part:

1. Students may stay only when you send the office a note on the very day for which you are giving permission. Without a note from a parent, students may not stay at school, and must take the bus home as usual.

2. This adjustment to past practice is not an after-school program. The school will not be responsible for the students who stay. There is no supervision being provided. In fact, a student who stays to play in the recreation park after school is just as much the parent’s responsibility as when the child plays there on Saturdays, Sundays, and other non-school hours.

3. Students who intend to stay after school will be required to meet in the lobby, wait until buses have departed and will then be dismissed.

4. Students will not be permitted to transport items such as basketballs, bats, skateboards, or any other items deemed unsafe for transport on our buses. While we’re working to find ways to do this safely, we simply have not come up with a solution yet. When we do, we’ll let you know.

5. Students permitted to take advantage of this opportunity are 7th and 8th graders only.

6. Clearly, any abuse of this freedom will result in the loss of the opportunity.

We believe you and your children can make this privilege work.

ASSIGNMENT BOOK

Assignment books are used in grades 4-8. These books are supplied by the school. They are signed weekly by a parent/guardian.

<<back

BARRE TOWN PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION

<<back

BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT

Our Guiding Principles
 

Code of Conduct and Our Important Values

One of the major indicators of a great school is the positive attitude shown by all of the people working or studying within the building. To insure students a positive environment for their education and to provide for their protection, the Barre Town School has adopted this code of conduct. The code is based upon these important values: truthfulness, honesty, integrity, fairness, respect, cooperation, kindness, tolerance, determination, helpfulness, positive outlook, willingness to learn and pay attention, organization, listening, responsibility, neatness, and problem-solving.

Student Rights

All students have the following rights at Barre Town Elementary School:
The RIGHT to a quiet, orderly place in which to learn.
The RIGHT to have their ideas and feelings respected.
The RIGHT to personal safety during all aspects of a school day.
The RIGHT to have individual belongings protected.
The RIGHT to have questions answered.
The RIGHT to be respected and dealt with in an honest manner.
The RIGHT to have assignments developed, assigned, completed, and corrected in a timely manner.

School Rules K-8

These rules must be obeyed while the student is under our supervision. This includes behavior on buses, at lunch and recess, on field trips, at dances, at athletic events, and at all other school activities.

1. It is the responsibility of students to act in a manner that doesn't interfere with anyone else's learning, safety, or the teacher's responsibility to teach. Students will use respectful language at all times.

2. When problems arise, students will settle them without fighting or cursing, and if the need arises, go to an adult to help solve the problem.

3. Students will respect the building, its equipment and contents (books, science and math equipment, and other materials provided for them.) They will pay for any damage to school property.

4. Students will follow instructions given to them by adults while on school grounds or during school-sponsored activities.

5. Students will not use or possess alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs while attending school or school-sponsored activities. Students will not be in possession of knives, guns, matches or lighters, fireworks, or other dangerous substances or items.

6. Students will leave coats and hats in lockers or on coat racks during the day, except at recess.

7. Students will not chew gum or wear hats at school.

8. Students will leave radios, tape recorders, pagers, cellular phones, computer games, water guns, and other types of appliances at home.

9. Students will leave school on their regular bus unless they have a note from home or permission from the principal.

10. Students will not wear T-shirts or other clothing bearing sexual or inappropriate drug-related messages to school or school-related functions.

11. Students will check in at the office if they are late to school.

12. Students will wear appropriate clothing to school, clothing that does not distract other students or disrupt the educational atmosphere at Barre Town.
     

<<back

Discipline Process and Procedures for Grades K-8

There are three levels/types of behavior in which students engage. There are many options available to the school regarding the issuance of consequences. Below, find our system, starting with the informal, then the formal. This system looks different, but it will serve our students well. The last piece is about behaviors that require principals’ oversight.

Level One Behaviors: Informal
Primary Responsibility – Teacher or Supervising Adult
The classroom teacher will make the initial effort in establishing rapport and respect with the students. The classroom teachers are expected to work out behavior problems with each student. Teacher-student interaction is one of the key activities in sound student management.

The Student Support Centers (SSC) will be accessible for all students. After a student has made three visits to the SSC, the SSC staff will inform the students TA. His/her TA will then make a GRIN referral, followed by a formal plan.

Level Two Behaviors: Formal
Primary Responsibility – Teacher and Educational Support System

The classroom teacher will make a referral to the GRIN (Guidance Resource Intervention Network) committee. The process requires a properly filled out GRIN referral form with a completed record review attached (meetings will be held weekly, referral forms are located in the Special Services office). Be prepared to have documentation of all attempts to reconcile behaviors using processes outlined in level one. The GRIN committee will determine the next step most appropriate to meet the student’s needs: EST, Section 504 evaluation, or Special Education process.

The Barre Town Educational Support System (ESS) includes: Counselors, Psychologist, Behavior Interventionist, Behavior Specialist, Nurse, Home/School Coordinator, Team I / Team II Special Education Teachers, Speech and Language Pathologist, Integration Facilitator, Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist, Hearing Specialist, and Educational Support Team (EST).

Level Three Behaviors: Administrative
Primary Responsibility – School Administration

There are certain conditions whereby a student may be sent directly to the Principal for behavior problems. If this occurs, a discipline form will be completed. Additionally, if it is determined that a consequence/plan is to be implemented it is the responsibility of the classroom teacher or TA to oversee its completion.

<<back

Discipline Steps for Grades 5-8

• Behavioral Written Warning. Four behavior written warnings in a semester will result in a detention.

• Academic Written Warning: Four academic written warnings in a semester will result in an “after school with teacher”. Failure to report to an “after school with teacher” will result in a detention.

• Detention. Four detentions in a semester will result in an in-school suspension (the 4th detention is not served).
  Eight detentions in a semester will result in 3 days of in-school suspension (the 8th detention is not served).
  Twelve detentions in a semester will result in 1 day of an out-of-school suspension (the 12th detention is not served).

NOTE: The accumulation of written warnings and detentions will stop after the first semester and beginning at zero, accumulating until the end of the school year. The points lost up to this point remain.

HAZING POLICY CODE JICFA

The following is an excerpt from the Barre Town Middle and Elementary School Hazing Policy (JICFA). For a copy of the complete policy, please click here or request it by calling the Superintendent’s Office at 476-5011.

Policy:
It is the policy of the Barre Supervisory Union School District that all its schools provide safe, orderly, civil, and positive learning environments. Hazing is unlawful and has no place in the District’s school and will not be tolerated. Accordingly, the district adopts the following policy and procedures to prohibit hazing and will ensure the enforcement thereof.

Definitions:
“Hazing” means any act committed by a person, whether individually or in concert with others, against a student in connection with pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization which is affiliated with the District; and which is intended to have the effect of, or should reasonably be expected to have the effect of humiliating, intimidating, or demeaning the student or endangering the mental or physical health of the student. “Hazing” also includes soliciting, directing, aiding, or otherwise participating actively or passively in the above acts. If hazing occurs on or off school grounds, it will be subject to this policy.

Seclusionary Time-Out

A time-out room is an area for a student to safely de-escalate, regain control, and prepare to meet expectations to return to the student's classroom or program. Time-out rooms are to be used in conjunction with a behavior management intervention in which a student is removed to a supervised area in order to facilitate self control or to remove a child from a potentially dangerous environment. A time-out room should only be used in conjunction with a behavior management program which teaches and reinforces acceptable behaviors or when a student is in crisis.

Barre Town School's policy and procedures regarding the use of seclusionary time-out, as part of our discipline process, is available upon request in the Superintendent's office.

BULLYING CODE: JK-R

The information provided below is an excerpt from the Barre Town Middle and Elementary School Bullying Policy (JK-R). For a complete policy, please request it by calling the superintendent’s office at 476-5011.

I. General Statement of Policy
The Barre Town School District (“the District”) is committed to providing a safe and supportive school environment in which all students are treated with respect. This policy involves incident(s) and/or conduct that occur on school property, on a school bus, bus stop, or at a school-sponsored activity where direct harm to the welfare of the school can be demonstrated.

Bullying is a form of dangerous and disrespectful behavior that will not be permitted or tolerated. Bullying may involve a range of misconduct that, based on the severity, will warrant a measured response of corrective action and/or discipline, as assembled in the BTMES Discipline Policy. Behaviors that do not rise ot the level of bullying, as defined below may be subject to intervention and/or discipline under the BTMES’s Discipline Policy.

II. Definition
Bullying means an overt act or combination of such acts directed against a student by another student or group of students and which:
(a) is intended to ridicule, humiliate, or intimidate the student, and,
(b) is repeated over time, and
(c) occur during the school day, on school property, on a school bus, or at a school
sponsored activity.

<<back

STUDENT ANTI-HARASSMENT

The information provided below is an excerpt from the Barre Town Middle and Elementary School policy on Prevention of Harassment of student (JBA). For a copy of the complete policy, please request it by calling the Superintendent's Office at 476-5011.

I. General Statement of Policy
The Barre Town School District (“the District”) is committed to providing a safe and supportive school environment in which all students are treated with respect. This policy involves incident(s) and/or conduct that occurs on school property, on a school bus or at a school-sponsored activity, or misconduct not on school property, on a school bus or at a school-sponsored activity where direct harm to the welfare of the school can be demonstrated.

II. Definitions
A. Harassment
(1) “Harassment” means an incident or incidents of verbal, written, visual or physical conduct based on or motivated by a student’s or a student’s family member’s actual or perceived race, creed, color, national origin, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, or disability that has the purpose of effect of objectively and substantially undermining and detracting from or interfering with a student's educational performance of access to school resources or creating an objectively intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.

(2) Harassment includes conduct which violates subsection (1) of this definition and constitutes one or more of the following:

(a) Sexual harassment, which means conduct that includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal, written, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature when one or both of the following occur:

(i) Submission to that conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a student’s education.
(ii) Submission to or rejection of such conduct by a student is used as a component of the basis for decisions affecting that student.

(b) Racial harassment, which means conduct directed at the characteristics of a student’s or a student’s family member’s actual or perceived race or color, and includes the use of epithets, stereotypes, racial slurs, comments, insults, derogatory remarks, gestures, threats, graffiti display or circulation of written or visual material, and taunts on manner of speech and negative references to racial customs.

(c) Harassment of members of other protected categories, which means conduct directed at the characteristics of a student’s or a student’s family member’s actual or perceived creed, national origin, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, or disability and includes the use of epithets, stereotypes, slurs, comments, insults, derogatory remarks, gestures, threats, graffiti, display, or circulation of written or visual material, taunts on manner of speech, and negative references to customs related to any of these protected categories.

III. Reporting of Student Harassment Complaints
A student who believes that s/he has been harassed, or who witnesses conduct that s/he believes might constitute harassment, should report the conduct to a designated employee, or to any other school employee.

Student Anti-Harassment Disciplinary Procedures

A student found to be harassing another individual will:

First Offense
1. receive at minimum , a detention. The detention should state that continuous offenses of similar behavior will constitute a violation of the Anti-Harassment Policy.

Second Offense
1. receive a one-day in-school suspension. The suspension form should state that a pattern of behavior appears to be developing, and that one or more offense(s) of similar behavior will constitute a violation of the Anti-Harassment Policy;
2. have the pertinent sections of the policy reviewed with the student by a Harassment Complaint Official
3. be required to complete the Anti-Harassment Policy Review Test;
4. be expected to review the entire policy with parents; and
5. unless in the judgment of the Harassment Complaint Official it is felt to be inappropriate, meet with the victim of the harassment in an effort to recognize differences.

Subsequent Offenses:
1. to be sent to the Principals' Office;
2. that the student's parents will be summoned to come to the school;
3. that a written report will be entered into the student's file charging him/her with "illegal harassment";
4. that the appropriate state or local law enforcement agency may be notified;
5. to have the pertinent sections of the policy reviewed by a Harassment Complaint Official;
6. be suspended from school for 1-3 days;
7. serve a day of Saturday school for each day of suspension;
8. be referred to a Personal Advisory Committee (PAC);
9. complete requirements of his/her PAC plan.

<<back

SUBSTANCE ABUSE

The information provided below is an excerpt of the Barre Town Middle and Elementary School Use, Possession, and Distribution of Substances Policy (CODE: JICH). For a copy of the complete policy, please request it by calling the Superintendent's office at 476-5011.

The Barre Town School District regards the health, safety, and well-being of all students, to be of prime importance. It is the intent of this policy to be sensitive to students, while guaranteeing their rights to due process. The administration and faculty are dedicated to a Substance Abuse Prevention Program.

The Barre Town School District believes that substance abuse is a treatable health problem and that it is primarily the responsibility of the home and the community. The school shares this responsibility and sees its role in the areas of prevention (education), intervention (identification and referral), and reinforcement of positive self-image.

The Barre Town School District's policy is that alcohol and drugs shall not be permitted on school premises, or school buses, or at any event sponsored by the school system, whether held on school premises or not, by any group or organization, including students, school staff, or organizations or individuals who have rented or secured school system permission to use school facilities for non-school sponsored activities.

Community and school share in this responsibility because substance abuse often interferes with behavior, learning, and the fullest possible development of each student.

The school has established a Personal Assistance Committee (PAC) consisting of at least an administrator, guidance counselor, nurse, Special Education staff member, and other personnel as appropriate. It will be the responsibility of the PAC to ascertain what the proper disposition of a referral should be. Referring persons will be invited to meet with the PAC.

1. The primary task of PAC shall be to determine whether or not a problem related to substance abuse exists, and to develop a plan to assist the student in resolving that problem, should one exist. Options might include any of the following:

• individual counseling
• group counseling
• family counseling
• development of a contract with the student
• substance abuse counseling
• referral to outside agencies
• informing the Superintendent

Drug and Alcohol Disciplinary Policy Procedures

A. A violation of the Barre Town School District Alcohol and Drug Abuse Policy is any drug or alcohol related incident which occurs on school premises or at school sponsored functions and includes the purchase, use, prior ingestion, possession, being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs (legal intoxication is not required), selling or giving alcohol and/or drugs to others, and the possession of devices specifically or reasonably associated with alcohol or drug use. For the purpose of this policy alcohol and/or drugs includes substances which a student represents or believes to be alcohol and/or drugs.

B. Definitions

1. Alcohol and/or drug use and abuse is defined as the ingestion or possession of non-prescribed drugs or alcohol or being under the influence of the same on the school premises or during participation in any school related activity.
2. "Drug" means any controlled substance as defined by state or federal statute or regulation.
3. The policy also applies to those instances where use of a substance, whether legal or illegal, is intended to affect the physical, psychological, or emotional state of the user.

C. If a student is found possessing and/or using alcohol and/or drugs as defined in Section (A) above, the following disciplinary actions will take place:

1. First offense

1. The school administration will be notified immediately.

2. The parent or guardian will be notified immediately and required to come to the school. The parent or guardian will be informed about the penalties for subsequent offenses and the student will be removed for the remainder of the day by the parents or guardians at the time of the incident. The student shall serve three days of in-school suspension.

3. All other procedures taken by the administrator will be within the confines of the law. These may include, but are not limited to, consultation with school staff member(s), mental health personnel, school nurse, and/or referral to appropriate out-of-school agencies.

4. The appropriate law enforcement agencies may be notified by this school administration when appropriate.

5. Referral to PAC.

2. Second offense

1. All of the consequences described in first offense action, plus:

2. The appropriate law enforcement agencies will be notified.

3. Suspension for five school days in accordance with established policy regarding suspension.

4. PAC will refer to appropriate agencies with compulsory personal consultation involving student and parent/guardian about the problem as a condition of reinstatement.

3. Subsequent offenses

1. All consequences described in the first and second offense actions listed above.
2. Automatic suspension will occur, along with immediate referral to the PAC for disciplinary action, which may include referral to the Superintendent for; long-term suspension, removal from the school setting to a move restrictive environment, or expulsion in accordance with established policy regarding expulsion.
3. If the student is not expelled, the plan developed by PAC must be reviewed and/or revised within 30 school days.

D. If a student is determined to be distributing alcohol and/or drugs as defined in Section (A) above on school premises, school buses or at any event sponsored by the school district or at school function, the following will take place:

1. The parents or guardian will be summoned.
2. Appropriate law enforcement agencies will be summoned by the school administration.
3. Automatic suspension will occur, along with immediate referral to the PAC for disciplinary action, which may include referral to the Superintendent for; long-term suspension, removal from the school setting to a move restrictive environment, or expulsion in accordance with established policy regarding expulsion.
4. If the student is not expelled, the plan developed by PAC must be reviewed and/or revised within 30 school days.

E. Commencing on the date of the student's first offense a record of disciplinary action will follow a student until the student graduates or is no longer eligible for graduation at which time the records will be destroyed.

F. In the case of a student with disabilities, proceedings and discipline will be implemented consistent with IDEA and Section 504 of Federal law.

<<back

WEAPONS IN SCHOOL (POLICY JICI)

I. Policy
The School Board determines that possession and/or use of a weapon by students is detrimental to the welfare and safety of other students and school personnel.

II. Conduct Prohibited
Possession and/or use of any dangerous or deadly weapon or facsimile of any dangerous or deadly weapon in any school building or on school grounds or property is strictly prohibited. It is a violation of this policy for any person to make, issue, or communicate by any means, a threat that a dangerous or deadly weapon has been, or will be placed or used on school grounds or property. This policy is in effect before and while the person is on school grounds or property, as well as at any school-sponsored activity. This policy does not apply to a law enforcement officer while engaged in law enforcement duties or to weapons or facsimiles of weapons used in school-approved functions or ceremonies.

III. Definitions
A. "Dangerous or deadly weapons" means:

1. Weapons as defined in Section 921 of the Federal Gun-Free Schools Act including the following:
   1. any weapon which will, or is designated to, or may readily be converted to, expel a projectile by the action of an explosive;
   2. the frame or receiver of any weapon described above;
   3. any firearm muffler or firearm silencer;
   4. any explosive, incendiary, or poison gas
      (bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce, mine; or similar device, unless under the supervision of a teacher and used as part of the curriculum.)
   5. any weapon which will, or which may be readily converted to, expel a projectile by the action of an explosive or other propellant, and which has any barrel with a bore of more than one-half inch in diameter;
   6. any combination of parts either designed, or intended for use in, converting any device into any destructive device described in the two immediately preceding examples and from which a destructive device may be readily assembled;
   7. a hoax device, defined as any device so designed, assembled, fabricated, or manufactured as to convey the physical appearance of an explosive or incendiary bomb or the physical appearance of any of the devices enumerated in subdivision (a) - (f) of this section, which is lacking an explosive or incendiary charge.
2. A dirk knife, bowie knife, dagger, or other weapon, device, instrument, material, or substance, whether animate or inanimate, which in the manner it is used or is intended to be used is known to be capable or producing death or serious bodily injury. It also includes folding knives with blades longer than two inches, including pocketknives, penknives, and jackknives.

B. "School grounds or property" means: facilities, buildings, fields, and grounds areas; vehicles owned, leased, or used by the District to transport students to and from school or school activities; parking lots (including vehicles in the parking lots); or any other setting which is under the permanent or temporary supervision and/or control of the School District.

IV. Sanctions
A violation of the terms of this policy will require that the following disciplinary action be initiated, in addition to possible legal action:

1. The student who is in possession of a "dangerous or deadly weapon" shall be referred to a law enforcement agency.
2. The "dangerous or deadly weapon" will be confiscated.
3. The student shall be immediately suspended for up to ten (10) school days and brought by the superintendent to the school board for an expulsion hearing.
4. A student found by the Board after a hearing to have violated the provisions of this policy shall be expelled for at least one (1) calendar year. However the Board may modify the expulsion on a case-by-case basis when it finds circumstances such as, but not limited to:
   1. The student was unaware that he/she had brought a weapon to school;
   2. The student did not intend to use the weapons or threaten or endanger others;
   3. The student is disabled and the misconduct is related to the disability (See Section JKR-Vermont Department of Education Special Education Regulations and Other Pertinent Regulations, Sec. 4300 (4311-4312) and implement consistent with IDEA and Section 504 of Federal Law);
   4. The student does not present an ongoing threat to others;
   5. A lengthy expulsion would not serve the best interests of the student.

V. Reports to the State
As required by state law, the superintendent shall annually provide the commissioner of education with descriptions of the circumstances surrounding expulsions imposed under this policy, the number of students expelled, and the type of weapons involved.

VI. Aiding Other Students
A student who in any way encourages another student to bring weapons to school also endangers the safety of others. Barre Town School District expressly prohibits any such action. No student shall knowingly or willfully cause, encourage, or aid any other student to possess, handle, or transmit any of the weapons or facsimiles of weapons listed above. No student shall knowingly or willfully cause, encourage, or aid any other student to make, issue, or otherwise communicate by any means, a threat that a dangerous or deadly weapon has been or will be placed or used on school grounds, or property. A student found to have violated this provision of the policy by causing, encouraging, aiding, etc. another student, shall be expelled for at least one (1) calendar year and treated in accordance with the provisions of section IV, Sanctions.

<<back

PASS SYSTEM

To leave the sixth, seventh, and eighth grade areas, students must carry a pass stating their name, the time, the destination and a teacher's initials. When the students leave their destination, they must have another adult's initials on the pass upon returning to the sixth, seventh, and eighth grade areas. The use of customized, reusable passes is authorized as an alternative.

MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT POINT SYSTEM

The Point System is for the majority of students who work hard, pay attention, show good manners and respect for adults, while at the same time being involved in creating a positive, active climate for learning in school. A student earns points for academic work, extracurricular participation, attendance, seeking help after school, and receiving Teacher Choice Awards. If a student does very well, he/she will receive a Special Recognition Award (500-599 points for the entire year), and if a student's effort is outstanding, he/she will receive the Principals' Award for Outstanding Performance (600+ points for the entire year).

A student will also earn points for avoiding disciplinary situations. The discipline points earned determine whether or not a student may participate in the end-of-the-year class trip. For example, if a student does not incur a detention in one grading period, he/she will earn 30 points. A total of 50 discipline points may be earned each quarter. End-of-year field trip eligibility requires a total of 150 discipline points.

STUDENT:______________________________
 

CHILD FIND NOTICE

The Barre Town Supervisory District wishes to inform interested parties that all people with disabilities from birth through the age of 21, who are in need of special education and related services, need to be identified, located, and evaluated. Also, any person between the ages of 3 through 21, who is in need of special education and related services, is entitled to a free and appropriate public education. Therefore, any person who has information about disabled people who fit these descriptions should contact Laurie Gossens, Special Programs Director, Barre Town Middle and Elementary School (476-6702).

<<back

COMMUNICATION

BOARD MEETINGS

Barre Town School Board of Directors meetings are held on the first and third Wednesdays of every month at 6:30 p.m. in the Library of the Barre Town Middle and Elementary School. They are videotaped by Videovision Video Production and aired on Public Access Television - Channel 7. The regular schedule for airing the meetings is on the Thursday following the Board meeting at 8:00 p.m. and on the following Friday at 10:00 a.m. Occasionally, this schedule may be interrupted by a live presentation. The agendas for the meetings are posted at the Barre Town manager's office and at the Barre Town Middle and Elementary School. A schedule for Channel 7 broadcasts may be found in the weekly issue of the Washington World or by checking the on-screen display which is shown at regular intervals on Channel 7 and Channel 23.

PARENT NEWSLETTER

One of our most read, most comprehensive forms of communication is the Parent Newsletter. It contains information about many subjects that the staff and administration deem important for parents to know. It includes such topics as a calendar of events, information about testing, nurse and guidance office news and tips, and so on. Parents should expect to receive a Parent Newsletter toward the end of each month of school.

In an effort to support the many nonprofit organizations that serve Barre Town’s children, The Parent Newsletter will also serve as a way to inform parents of these organizations’ activities. Organizations, which are not of a commercial nature, who would like to inform parents of activities, who meet publishing deadlines, and whose services to children meet the school principals’ standards will be permitted to include very basic information in The Parent Newsletter. The publishing deadlines for 2007-2008 are:

In an attempt to keep parents current and informed on opportunities of potential interest to Barre Town families, we will include a list of such opportunities and the contact people for each in The Parent Newsletter.

<<back

SUGGESTION BOX

A belief central to the operation of the school is the importance of all levels and types of communication with parents. We encourage direct parent-teacher and parent-administrator interaction. We continue to look for new ways to include parents in their roles as partners, as collaborators and problem solvers, as audience, as supporters, and as advisors and co-decision makers.

In order to facilitate communication between parents/community and school, a suggestion box has been placed on the counter in front of the office. Parents and adult community members are encouraged to use the suggestion box to share constructive ideas, concerns, and simple non-personnel questions. Our goal is to respond to all suggestions within two weeks.

TIPS FOR PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

Plan Ahead

1. Both parents attending would be great.

2. Make sure the schedule is as convenient as possible.

3. Be on time.

4. Stay on schedule. There will be other parents waiting to talk to the teacher.

Decide what you want to ask the teacher

1. Talk with your child. See if there is an item he/she would like you to talk about with the teacher.

2. Talk with your spouse and decide if any aspects of your child's school world puzzle or worry you.

3. Express your concerns if you have them. Now is the time to get the straight answer.

Items that you might wish to see

1. Your child's desk

2. Samples of your child's work

3. Math and Writing Portfolios

4. Inquiry Science Project

5. Progress to date in the grade level math, spelling, and language arts objectives

6. By-grade, by-subject expectations

7. Assessment data

Items that the teacher might like to know

1. Important experiences outside of school that may be affecting your child

2. Feelings toward school and the teacher

3. Special interests

4. How the child is at home

5. TV habits and other activities

After the conference

1. If you need more time, feel welcome to set up an additional conference.

2. Review the conference with your child. Be positive. The better your child feels about himself/herself, the better the child will do in school.

3. A bond is now established between teacher and parent. This partnership is an important part of your child's school life. Feel welcome to keep the line of communication open.

<<back

COMPREHENSIVE SYSTEM OF EDUCATION SERVICES AND THE EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT SYSTEM (ESS)

Beginning in 1990 with the implementation of Act 230, school districts were required to develop a comprehensive system of education services that included an Education Support Team and System to provide supports to help all students be successful in school. The goals of Act 230 were reaffirmed in 1996 with the passage of Act 157 and again in the 2000 legislative session with the passage of Act 117.

The Barre Town Middle & Elementary School’s ESS consists of a range of supports and services, instructional strategies and accommodations, needed to increase the ability of a school to meet the needs of all students in the general education environment. The goal of the ESS is for all students to achieve the basic skill areas, meet Vermont standards, and experience success in the general education environment. Barre Town Middle and Elementary School is committed to a comprehensive system of educational services that will result, to the maximum extent possible, in all students succeeding in the regular classroom.

In an effort to respond to the requirements of an Educational Support Team and system of education services, the Barre Town School offers the Guidance Resource Intervention Network. (G.R.I.N.) G.R.I.N. acts as the clearing house to simplify the referral process. The G.R.I.N. team is comprised of the school psychologist, school counselors, special services coordinator, school nurse, and behavior specialists and other members on an as needed basis.
Parents, teachers, or other members of the school staff may make written referrals to G.R.I.N. Parents are notified prior to a referral to the G.R.I.N. team. Written referrals received are then directed to the appropriate resource including the Educational Support Team (E.S.T.), or special education staff.

Each grade level has an E.S.T. Its job is to act as a “think tank” and help solve the puzzle of what is going on for a student and determine what he/she might need to be more successful. It is also the job of an E.S.T. to review, revise, and monitor the effectiveness of interventions. The focus is on what school staff can do differently by changing strategies, adjusting the environment, altering expectations, etc.

Based on the team’s experience with individual student referrals, a school’s E.S.T. is also able to identify trends and patterns of student needs in the school. The team can use the information to inform the school’s Action Plan with data and recommendations for systemic interventions.

Parents, teachers, or other members of the school staff may make referrals to G.R.I.N. Parents are notified prior to a referral to the G.R.I.N. team. Referral forms are available in the special services office.

No individual entitlement or private right of action is created by the Vermont State Regulations 2194: Educational Support System.

If you have any questions regarding the E.S.S. or E.S.T. process, please call the special services office at 476-6702.

<<back

COUNSELING

School counselors are available to help provide assistance with students' personal, social, and academic growth and development. At Barre Town there are two school counselors, one assigned to grades K-4 and the other to grades 5-8. Our comprehensive, developmental counseling program offers a variety of services to students which include individual counseling, small group counseling, classroom guidance, and teacher/parent consultation.

If you would like your child to receive counseling services, please contact the counselors directly or request your child's teacher to make a referral to the G.R.I.N. (Guidance Resource Intervention Network) team. The team will then assess your child's needs and designate appropriate counseling services for your child.

DISTRIBUTION/POSTING OF PROMOTIONAL MATERIALS POLICY CODE KHC

Only information about school-sponsored activities will be distributed through students or posted in the school.

EMERGENCY EVACUATIONS

The main concern during emergency situations is for the safety of all the students. When the alarm sounds, or when the code language is used over the intercom, the students will follow the directions of their teachers or the adult who is supervising them. Student will proceed to the far end of the parking lot, or to the location indicated over the intercom. Parents should have arrangements made for their children in the event of an early dismissal. Students should know where to go if the parents are not home when the students get off the bus.

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSING

In the event that school is closed due to inclement weather, it will be broadcast on the following radio stations: WSNO at 1450 AM, WSKI at 1240 AM, WDEV at 55 AM, WORK at 107.9 FM, WNCS at 104.7 F.M., WEZF at 93.5 F.M., WCVR at 102.1 F.M. , WWFY 100.9 and WCAX TV station.

<<back

ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

Barre Town Middle and Elementary School believes that a program of enrichment challenges each student to realize his or her full potential using community resources, parents, school staff, and the students themselves. The Enrichment Program provides learning experiences in creative and critical thinking, visual and performing arts, specific academic areas, and more. The three enrichment teachers will assist classroom teachers as follows:

Resource Identification

1. researching specific topics
2. locating state and community resources
3. locating and/or providing equipment and materials.

Large-Group Activities
These services include team planning and/or teaching, model teaching, curriculum-related workshops, presentations by guest speakers, and sharing of museum kits. Large-group services may be requested by classroom teachers or specials staff, or may be offered on a voluntary basis by enrichment teachers.

Independent or Small-Group Projects
The purpose of this aspect of the Enrichment Program is to provide motivated students with the opportunity to pursue an area of interest or ability in depth. Project topics are chosen by students with some direction given by parents and teachers, if necessary. Topics are often related to the classroom curriculum. Projects may involve research, math and/or science investigations, literature study, writing, performing arts, or other areas of interest. Students being referred must demonstrate at least one of the following criteria:

1. above-average ability
2. creativity
3. task commitment.

Students may be referred by teachers or parents. In some cases, students may refer themselves. Participation in independent or small group projects is noted in students' permanent records.

<<back

EXTRACURRICULAR AND AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

Many extracurricular activities are offered at our school.

Athletics - the following activities are available to seventh and eighth graders:
    1. field hockey
    2. soccer
    3. basketball

Those interested in participating should listen for announcements in the daily Bulletin or contact one of the coaches. Try-outs and practice sessions are held after school, and students must provide their own transportation to and from practice when necessary. Each participant in these sports must show evidence of proper medical insurance coverage, as well as a current physical exam, in order to practice and/or play competitively. All athletes are to have a physical exam once every two years. All athletes will receive a copy of the Barre Town Middle and Elementary School Athletic Digest for Parents and Students. This is to be distributed to athletes no later than the first day of practice or tryouts. If a parent or student would like to review the Digest before the first day of practice or try-outs, please call the school at 476-6617.

Band - Barre Town Middle and Elementary School has several bands. Year after year, we receive praise for the bands' participation in public events. At the end of the third grade, any student who is interested in learning to play a band instrument has an opportunity to select an appropriate instrument and to begin an instrumental program in school in the fourth grade. As soon as the student has become proficient in playing an instrument, he/she is eligible to play in a band. There is the Beginning Band, comprised of fourth graders; the Junior Band of fifth and sixth graders; the Senior Band of seventh and eighth graders; and two Jazz Ensembles.

Drama Club - the Drama Club is for students in grades 5-8. In addition to acting, many students are involved in prop preparation and backstage work.

Student Council - Student Council is the organized voice for students in grades 5-8 in regard to the operation of the school. The Student Council is responsible for the organization and operation of school dances, and other social and service activities within the middle grades. A major emphasis of this extracurricular organization is to develop organizational and leadership skills among the elected representatives.

The Student Council consists of two representatives elected in the fall from grades 5-8. There is a Student Council for grades 5 and 6 and a Student Council for grades 7 and 8.  These representatives are responsible for keeping their  classmates informed of the activities of the Student Council. Likewise these representatives are also responsible for bringing students' concerns, ideas, and issues to the Student Council for discussion. Whenever appropriate the Student Council will bring issues to the attention of the school administration. Student Council officers are elected in the fall by and from their representatives. The officers are responsible for running weekly meetings of the council and to oversee the function of various committees. These committees include: Publicity Committee - responsible for up-to-date bulletin boards and creating posters to advertise up-coming events. Government Committee - responsible for dealing with student issues in regard to the quality of life for middle school students . Food Service Committee - two representatives of the Student Council serve on this committee. Social Committee - responsible for organizing social events for middle school students. Service Committee - responsible for raising awareness of the needs of others in the school and within the greater Barre Town community, and to organize ways to respond to those needs.

Unified Sports/Special Olympics Vermont – Starting in the 2003-2004 school year, Barre Town Middle and Elementary School participated in several unified sports activities. Unified sports brings together athletes with and without disabilities. If you are interest in learning more about the program, want to volunteer or participate on a sport team, please contact Laurie Gossens, Special Services coordinator at 476-6702.

Yearbook - The Yearbook Staff is for students in grades 6-8. The students work with an adult advisor to compile an annual yearbook, working on everything from photography to layout. In the event too many students sign up for the yearbook staff, a random selection process will be instituted.

Extracurricular Ineligibility Rules

All students in grades 5-8 come under the ineligibility rules. A student becomes ineligible to participate in extracurricular activities if that student receives two D's or one E on a report card. The ineligibility will take place from the date the report card was issued until the next student progress report is issued. If the student is eligible at that time, he/she will be reinstated in the extracurricular activity. Ineligibility resulting from the fourth marking period will not be carried over to the following year. A student whose attitude and behavior is not in the best interest of other students or staff at Barre Town Middle and Elementary School may become ineligible if mutually agreed to by the person in charge of the activity and the Principal.

The decision as to an ineligible student participating in activities other than those which qualify as extracurricular is entirely the classroom teacher's. A teacher may organize, for motivational purposes, an after-school activity for students that may include those who are ineligible.

Click here for Extracurricular Transportation information

<<back

FOOD SERVICE – Excerpt from Nutrition Policy (Code EF)

“Good nutrition is essential to peak academic performance and to long-term health...” Included in the procedures in this policy are those that direct nutrition education. Also, the banning of fund-raising activities that involve candy. Click here for further details.

FOOD SERVICE - ABBEY GROUP