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James

Buchanan

Middle

School

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STUDENT-PARENT

HANDBOOK

2017-2018 Tuscarora School District

James Buchanan Middle School

5191 Fort Loudon Road

Mercersburg, Pennsylvania 17236

Phone: (717) 328-5221

http://www.tus.k12.pa.us

Welcome to the James Buchanan Middle School. This

handbook is designed to help you know what is expected of you at the James Buchanan Middle School this school year.

If there are items in the handbook that you do not

understand, ask your teacher to explain it to you. By chance, a situation may arise that is not covered in the

handbook. Ask your teacher or one of the principals for

advice. Our desire is that you may have a very rewarding educational experience at James Buchanan Middle School.

Reading and following this handbook will help to make this

happen for you.

JAMES BUCHANAN MIDDLE

SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY

The philosophy of the James Buchanan Middle School is:

1. To support a “child centered” education for each student.

2. To give each middle school student as many

opportunities for success as possible.

3. To give each child an opportunity to experience a wide

range of learning experiences and teaching styles.

4. To promote the above while maintaining a fair, just, and

caring environment with a solid academic base.

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

Superintendent Dr. Matthew Strine

Director of Curriculum Richard Burkett

Middle School Principal James Carbaugh

Assistant Principal Zachary Kump

Athletic Director Larry Strawoet

Technical Coordinator

Business Manager Dr. Marcia Stokes

Mrs. Jennifer Boone Nurse-Health Room

Mrs. Tammy Lee Guidance

MIDDLE SCHOOL FACULTY

Grade 6 (Team Leaders in bold)

Mrs. Jeannette Swope 149

Mr. Nick Wingert 135

Mr. Andrew Stoner 136

Mrs. Michelle Rhodes 138

Mrs. Shaun Green 143

Ms. Michaelle Plotner 145

Mr. Tom Kriner 147

Ms. Nicole Mayberry 149

Grade 7 (Team Leaders in bold)

Mr. Aarin Wadel 204

Mr. Jerome Staniszewski 205

Mrs. Ashley Snyder 206

Mrs. Greta Crist 207

Ms. Sara Smeltzer 209

Mrs. Shawn Kirkpatrick 211

Mrs. Meghan Buffington 213

Mr. Chris Kochinsky 216

Mrs. Billie Cole 218

Mr. Robert Wareham 182

Grade 8 (Team Leaders in bold)

Mr. Tom Bradley 151

Ms. Kristie Guldin 153

Mrs. Amanda Piper 157

Mr. William Cromwell 159

Mrs. Kristin Chilcote 161

Ms. Elyssa Hevner 163

Mrs. Michelle Baker 165

Mrs. Lori Best 167

Mr. Mike Hess 169

Mr. Dave Salvitti 163

SPECIAL TEACHERS

Mrs. Julie Eshleman P.E/Health

Mr. Treavor Gelsinger P.E./Health

Ms. Suzanne Fryzlewicz ES Classroom 133

Mr. George Cole Art 180

TBA Librarian

Mrs. Christine Metcalfe Music

Mr. Eric Poe Chorus/Music

Mr. Gary Louder 6/7/8 Grade Band

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Mrs. Christine Hostler LIU Autistic Class

Gayle Hershey English Learning Support

Jenna Foor Math Learning Support

Ms. Kaye Hamilton Life Skills

SUPPORT STAFF

Mrs. Laura Jansen Secretary

Teresa Kloza Secretary

Heather Setting Cafeteria Supervisor

Ms. Crystal Shaffer Head Custodian

Maxine Seiders Custodian

Mr. Gerald Eckstine Custodian

Mrs. Tammy Mowen Library Assistant

Mrs. Kaye Goulette Teacher Assistant

TBA Teacher Assistant

Mrs. Jody Rickabaugh Teacher Assistant

Mrs. Michelle Stoner Teacher Assistant

Mrs. Tara Stewart Teacher Assistant

VACATION DAYS

September 4 Labor Day

November 10 Veterans Day

November 22 –28 Thanksgiving Holiday

December 22 – Jan. 2 Christmas Vacation

January 15 Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday

February 19 President’s Day

March/April 29 – 2 Easter Break-School Closed

May 28 Memorial Day

June 1 Closing Day – Tentative

Early Dismissal Days

Elementary 12:00 Noon/Secondary 1:00 p.m.

Sept. 28, 2017, April 27, 2018

Act 80 Days/ Full Day

November 9, 2017

March 16, 2018

May 11, 2018

Teacher In-Service/ Workshops/ No School

(No Student Day)

August 14- 15, 2017

September 29, 2017

October 9, 2017

January 12, 2018

Feb 9, 2018

June 4, 2018

OPENING EXERCISES

Opening exercises each morning will consist of four

parts:

1. The "National Anthem" or other patriotic music

played on the public address system.

2. The Pledge of Allegiance.

DAILY SCHEDULE

8:20 DISMISSAL FROM GYM/CAFE

8:23 – 8:33 Homeroom

8:36 - 9:21 Period 1

9:24 - 10:09 Period 2

10:11 - 10:42 Period 3 WIN

10:45 - 11:30 Period 4 6th/7th grade class

10:45 - 11:15 8th grade lunch (4th Period)

11:18 - 12:03 Period 5 8th grade class

11:33 – 12:18 Period 5 7th grade class

11:33 - 12:03 6th grade lunch (5th Period)

12:06 - 12:51 Period 6 6th/8th grade class

12:21 - 12:51 7th grade lunch (6th Period)

12:54 - 1:34 Period 7

1:37 - 2:22 Period 8

2:25 - 3:10 Period 9

3:14 Students in Homeroom

3:19 1st Dismissal

3:22 2nd Dismissal

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Food Service Meal Charge Procedures

Students may not charge meals in excess of -$8.00

(approximate cost of three reimbursable meals).

If a student’s account exceeds this limit, the parent will be notified. If the account is not brought up to date within five

(5) days, the student will be put on a “CASH ONLY” status.

Students with a “cash only” status must either pay cash for the reimbursable school meal each day or bring a packed

lunch from home. Any cash that exceeds the amount of the

reimbursable meal must be credited to any balance owed. Students who have a “cash only” status and who do not

bring cash or a packed lunch will be provided with the

following:

All students will receive a reimbursable lunch which will consist of the cold sandwich of the day, fruit, vegetable and

milk. This will be provided at the regular cost of a school

lunch and will be charged to the student’s lunch account.

Students will remain on “cash only” status until the account

balance is paid in full.

Low balance notices for accounts with $8.00 or less will be

given to students by the cashiers as needed.

Parents/guardians may also view their child’s account balance and also deposit money into the account via the

District’s web page at www.tus.k12.pa.us. If needed, Free

and Reduced Lunch forms are available in the school

offices throughout the school year.

Students with a negative account balance may pay cash for

his/her lunch on any given day. Any monies over the

amount of that day’s meal must be put toward the balance

owed.

Students with a negative account balance are not permitted

to make a la carte purchases until all charges are paid in full.

When a student’s account reaches a negative balance of

$50.00, the parent/guardian will receive a letter and have ten (10) days to pay the account in full. If the account is

not paid in full, or arrangements are not made with the Food

Service Department to make payments, the account will be

turned over to the District Magistrate for collection.

Any balances at the end of the school year will be carried

over on the account for the next school year.

PLEASE NOTE: Current free and reduced lunch students

will receive a reimbursable (regular school lunch) meal. This will be for all grade levels. Students who qualify for

free or reduced lunches are still required to pay all

outstanding lunch charges prior to the approval of the lunch

application.

SCHOOL PROPERTY-STUDENT

RESPONSIBILITY

Each student will be issued materials considered

necessary for learning in each of the subjects taught.

In some cases, supplies such as paper, pencils,

lumber, art supplies, tools, etc. are made available as

needed. Students in 8th grade will be issued a

Chromebook, and graphing calculator. All such

materials and supplies are the property of the school

district and are loaned to students for use by their

teacher. Unlawful taking, destruction or disfiguring,

and any form of vandalism will be prosecuted and

payment for the loss or partial loss will be required.

Students are required to keep an organized notebook

in which notes and papers may be placed. This will

eliminate some of the damage to books, which can

occur from cramming the book full of papers.

STUDENT PROPERTY

At no point is James Buchanan Middle School

responsible for lost or stolen items owned by the

student.

GRADING SYSTEM

The grading system and progress reports to parents

are intended to help students/parents know more

about what and how they are doing in all areas of

school life.

The grading system adopted by the Tuscarora School

District for James Buchanan Middle School is as

follows:

A = 93 - 100% B = 85 - 92%

C = 77 - 84% D = 69 - 76%

F = 68% and below

Each marking period is 6 weeks in length. Progress

reports are distributed at the conclusion of each

marking period as well as mid-terms. If a student is

making unsatisfactory progress, parents are urged to

contact the school with questions about any areas of

concern.

Adaptive grading scales for students with special

needs will be followed according to the IEP/504

HONORS LIST REQUIREMENTS

1. The average of all percentage grades must be

between 85% and 93%.

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2. Must have no failing grades in any subjects.

(SUPER) HONORS LIST REQUIREMENTS

Students must fulfill all requirements as listed for the

honors list, except that their percentage average must

be 93% or greater.

HOMEWORK PROCEDURES AND

GUIDELINES

Purpose:

Homework contributes toward building

responsibility, self-discipline and lifelong learning

habits. It is the intention of the James Buchanan

Middle School staff to assign relevant, challenging

and meaningful homework assignments that

reinforce classroom learning objectives. Homework

should provide students with the opportunity to

apply information they have learned, complete

unfinished class assignments, and develop

independence. Homework grades are modified

based on students’ individual needs (i.e. IEP, 504

Plans).

Homework assignments include:

Practice exercises to follow classroom

instruction

Preview assignments to prepare for subsequent

lessons

Extension assignments to transfer new skills or

concepts to new situations

Creative activities to integrate many skills

toward the production of a response or product

Time

Actual time required to complete assignments will

vary with each student’s study habits, academic

skills, and selected course load. If your child is

spending an inordinate amount of time doing

homework, you should contact your child’s teachers.

Students are encouraged to pursue non-assigned,

independent, leisure reading.

Research shows that a good guideline is to allow 10

minutes for each grade level. Example: 6th grader X

10 minutes = 60 minutes. This is a total of all

subjects or total time to be spent on homework.

Late Work Policies

Students are expected to turn work in on time.

Students who turn in late assignments on a consistent

basis will receive any of the following based upon

individual teacher discretion or grade level policy:

partial credit

no credit

missed reward activity

communication with parents

Homework Help

While your student is in school he/she will have

many opportunities to work on and receive help with

their homework.

● 7rd period is our activity period, that is

available to do homework if the student is

not involved in other activities.

Major Projects

Major Projects include research reports, book

reports, major essays, and other assignments teachers

designate as major projects. Work on these projects

should be done in small amounts over an extended

period of time.

Responsibilities of Staff:

● Assign relevant, challenging and

meaningful homework that reinforces

classroom learning.

● Have homework clearly displayed in

classroom and allot time for students to

record assignments in their assignment

book.

● Give clear instructions and make sure

students understand the purpose

● Give feedback and/or correct homework

● Communicate with other teachers

● Involve parents and contact them if a

pattern of late or incomplete homework

develops

Responsibilities of Parents:

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● Set a regular, uninterrupted study time

each day

● Establish a quiet, well-lit study area

● Monitor student’s organization and daily

list of assignments in their agenda

● Help student work to find the answer, not

just get it done

● Be supportive when the student gets

frustrated with difficult assignments

● Contact teacher to stay well informed

about the student’s learning process

Responsibilities of Students:

● Write down assignments in the “James

Buchanan Middle School Student

Agenda”

● Be sure all assignments are clear; don’t be

afraid to ask questions if necessary

● Set aside a regular time for studying

● Find a quiet, well-lit study area

● Work on homework independently

whenever possible, so that it reflects

student ability.

● Produce quality work.

● Make sure assignments are done

according to the given instructions and

completed on time.

PROMOTION / RETENTION POLICY

Any student failing multiple courses throughout the

course of the school year could be considered for

retention. Teachers and administrators will make

the final decision based on the best educational

placement for the student following Tuscarora

School District Board Policy.

SUMMER CREDIT RECOVERY

8th grade students failing two or more subjects will

be recommended to take credit recovery at the high

school. This will be completed at the

parents/students expense. Administration reserves

the right to require this of 6th and 7th grade students.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION POLICY

All boys and girls will be required to purchase gym

suits for physical education class or have a uniform

approved by the instructor. The gym teacher will

sell these shorts and shirts during the first several

weeks of physical education classes. Girls and boys

should always lock valuables in their gym locker

during classes or other activities in the gym area.

Locks are also sold through the physical education

teacher. Only school locks should be used on

gym lockers. School locks should be purchased

through the gym teacher.

Students will only be excused from physical

education class with a doctor’s excuse, which

includes a release date, school nurse or at the

physical education teacher’s discretion.

SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

A wide range of special education programs and services

are provided by the Tuscarora School District. Programs

provided directly by the district include learning support, emotional support, gifted and talented education as well as

speech therapy. Occupational therapy and physical

therapy are provided to students requiring these services in order to access their educational programs. The school

district employs a school psychologist to support

programs and students as well as complete multidisciplinary evaluations. Additionally, the district

contracts with the Lincoln Intermediate Unit #12 to

provide programs and services for exceptional students needing autistic support, hearing impaired support, life

skills support, multiple disabilities support, and visually

impaired support . The Lincoln Intermediate Unit also provides early intervention services for eligible preschool

children.

A variety of screening activities takes place in an effort to

identify students who may be at-risk. All students who register for kindergarten undergo screening to determine

each child’s developmental level in language, visual and

motor areas. Vision screening is conducted on a yearly basis for all students. Hearing screenings are conducted

yearly from kindergarten through third grade, then in

seventh grade and eleventh grade. Additionally, programs are provided by the Lincoln Intermediate Unit to identify

preschool children who may need early intervention

services.

If a student is experiencing difficulty in the learning environment, an instructional support team is convened to

address the problem. This building level team reviews

records and diagnostic data and collects additional information to assist in the identification of the

problem. Adaptations may be made in the student

educational program and monitored over a period of time. If the student’s problem cannot be resolved through

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interventions in the regular program, a referral for a

multidisciplinary evaluation may be made.

Parents may request a multidisciplinary evaluation. Such

requests should be in writing, stating the reason(s) an

evaluation is being requested, and submitted to the

principal.

In accordance with the School Records Policy of the

Tuscarora School District, information obtained regarding

a specific child is maintained in a confidential manner. The Student Records Policy incorporated provisions from state,

as well as federal regulations relating to the confidentiality

of student records.

For additional information regarding special education and

services in the Tuscarora School District, contact Mrs.

Michelle Bennett, Director of Special Education 328-5221

ext. 2705.

Moving In or Out of the District:

All new students in the middle school will report to

the middle school office to be registered. If middle

school students move into your neighborhood, please

report this to the office.

All middle school students whose family intends to

move either within the school district or out of the

district should report such a move to the office. A

student who leaves the district should return all

books and other materials to the school before

moving.

Students are responsible for all books and materials

and will be required to pay for supplies that are

destroyed or misused.

ATTENDANCE

GENERAL GUIDELINES

The PA School Code requires that every child of

compulsory school age having legal residence in

Pennsylvania attend school continuously while

school is in session. Therefore, in order to uphold

the law and to be consistent, the Tuscarora School

District requires that:

1. Any student who has been absent from school is

required to bring a note signed by his/her

parent/guardian stating the specific reason for the

date(s) of the absence.

2. A written note signed by the parent/guardian

stating the specific reason and the date (s) of the

absence must be submitted by the student or parent

to the school office within three days of returning to

school.

3. If a note signed by the parent/guardian is not

submitted to the school office within three days, the

absence will be considered unexcused and therefore

unlawful. Multiple absences that are deemed truant

can/will result in charges filed with the district

magistrate.

4. Students who are absent may be required to

present a signed doctor's excuse to the school office

stating the reason for and the date (s) of the absence.

If a doctor's excuse is required and not submitted, the

absence will be considered unexcused and therefore

unlawful.

5. A student CANNOT participate in or attend

any function or athletic event if he/she is absent

from school that day.

6. After 10 days of absences, a student will be

required to provide a medical excuse/note for

further absences to be excused.

Procedure After an Absence:

There are attendance laws which must be enforced

by school districts. The middle school has

established the following procedures for accounting

of student absences; on the first day returning to

school after an absence, the student should bring to

the OFFICE containing the following information:

1. The name of the student who was absent and

his/her homeroom.

2. The date of absence (s).

3. A brief but specific reason for the absence.

4. Signature of the parent or guardian.

5. The date that the note was signed.

NOTE: It is extremely important that all five

items of information listed are included.

Students who are sent home by the school nurse for

medical reasons will be excused for that day with a

note from the parent. Students on medical letters

(medical documentation is required by the school for

each absence) who are sent home by the school nurse

for medical reasons will be excused by a parent note

for that day only.

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IF THE ATTENDANCE INFORMATION IS

NOT FILED WITH THE MIDDLE SCHOOL

OFFICE WITHIN THREE DAYS AFTER

RETURNING TO SCHOOL, THE ABSENCE

WILL BE MARKED UNEXCUSED OR

ILLEGAL.

STUDENTS WHO ARE ABSENT DURING

THE AFTERNOON SESSION WITHOUT AN

APPROVED EXCUSE SHALL NOT BE

PERMITTED TO PARTICIPATE OR ATTEND

AFTER SCHOOL OR EVENING ACTIVITIES.

Defining Excused and Unexcused Absences:

All absences are unexcused and unlawful

except those for illness, death in the immediate

family, and impassable roads. After three

unlawful absences, parents are served notice, by

mail. This notice warns that the next unlawful

absence could result in an arrest or a fine for the

parent.

Hunting or Fishing Days:

Attendance laws require that days taken off for

hunting or fishing be counted as unexcused or

unlawful absences.

TRUANCY

Students found truant or with more than 6 days of

unlawful/ unexcused absence will face charges.

Students accumulating more than six days

unlawful absences or who are truant may forfeit

such activities as the administrator feels

appropriate. These activities may include dances,

class trips, and assemblies.

Procedure for Educational Trips:

Educational/family trips and visits to the

Pennsylvania Farm Show are considered as excused

absences providing an Educational Trip Request

Form (available in the middle school office) is

completed and returned to the principal at least one

week before leaving for the trip. . Parents are

asked to use discretion in planning trips, as many

students cannot keep up with work for extended

trips. Students may make up work in accordance

with district policy listed on the educational trip

form.

Absence from Class:

Students who are absent from class because of

athletic or music activities, meetings with the

counselor, nurse, or principal's, “special

assignments”, or any other approved purpose are

required to make up the work missed. In cases of

constant neglect of this responsibility, students will

be dropped from the respective activity.

Attendance to Class:

It is the student’s responsibility to attend all classes

for which he/she is scheduled. A student who fails

to attend a scheduled class or study hall is considered

to be in violation of school regulations.

The following procedures shall be imposed for such

violations:

● First Offense—Detention

● Second Offense—may result in

suspension.

Tardiness to School (Unexcused or Unlawful):

Tardy is defined as any time a student is absent from

school less than one-half day.

Students who come to school after 8:25 should report

to the office and see the attendance secretary with an

excuse from home.

Students who accumulate 420 unexcused tardy

minutes will equal one day of unexcused absence.

HOMEWORK FOR ABSENTEES

Families who wish to request homework

assignments for a student who is absent from school,

should contact the school office before 8:00 A. M.

to make arrangements. The 8:00 A. M. deadline will

allow time for assignments to be collected for each

class period. The assignments then may be picked up

in the office at approximately 3:00--4:00 P. M. For

any students that have a pre planned absence, that

student will be responsible for collecting their

homework before their departure.

CLOSING/DELAYS OF SCHOOL

In case of an emergency, such as snow, ice, etc.,

information regarding the closing of school will be

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broadcast over the radio stations, via district

webpage and Facebook.

Tune into the following radio stations for

information on closings/delays

WIKZ 95.1 FM

WQCM 94.3 FM

WDLD 96.7 FM

WCHA 800 AM

WHAG 1410 AM

WCRH 90.5 FM

WAYZ 104.7 FM

WBHB 101.5 FM

WNUZ 92.1 FM

WEB SITE

http://www.tus.k12.pa.us/

GENERAL INFORMATION

AFTER SCHOOL EVENTS

Students must bring a note from their parent or

guardian to stay for after school events other than

those regularly scheduled games or practices in

which they will be participating.

Students who are absent during the afternoon session

without an approved excuse (ex: illness, funeral)

shall not be permitted to participate or attend after

school or evening activities

CORRIDOR PASS

Students will need to have their pass sheet/books at

all times in the hallway except during the three-

minute passing time between periods. Our present

system requires that the student get a teacher

signature from the room they are leaving and the

planner must be presented to the teacher in charge of

the area in which the student is going. The planner

will then need to be signed by the teacher before the

student returns to his/her original room. Students in

the hall without a signed planner can receive

disciplinary action.

COMPUTER USE

Computers are provided for student use to complete

academic work and for instruction in the use of

computers and associated skills. Misuse of any

computer shall be considered a significant

infraction of school policy and a violation of the

AUP. Physical abuse of any computer or related

hardware or use of any school computer to access

inappropriate sites, or production of any

inappropriate material, shall result in any or all of

the following restrictions: Detention, In-school or

Out-of-school suspension, dance restriction, after

school detention, and removal of school license.

The administration shall have discretion in all such

cases. The administration reserves the right to seek

compensation for damages. If damages are not paid,

administration shall turn over the case to the school

resource officer.

LAVATORY PROCEDURES

Students need to use lavatory facilities at JBMS in a

respectful manner. Please help to keep lavatories

clean and neat at all times. Also, students need to

use lavatory facilities in a manner not to be tardy to

class. We discourage students’ use of the lavatory

during normal class periods. (i.e. emergencies only,

if possible). If necessary, see your next period

teacher for permission and a pass to use the lavatory

before class begins. If a student is abusing lavatory

privileges, his/her name will be forwarded to the

office for questioning, parent contact, and/or

possible disciplinary action.

NOTE: Students with problems related to

lavatory usage should have parents inform the

office.

LOCKERS

Every middle school student is assigned a locker near

his/her homeroom area for use in storage of books,

school materials, and personal belongings. The

school reserves the right to search lockers at any

time. JBMS is not responsible for items stolen from

lockers. A student must use only the locker which

he/she has been assigned.

The locker is subject to search without reasonable

suspicion and the user of this locker shall assume no

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expectation of privacy with regard to the locker or its

contents.

Students who accept and utilize a locker or cabinet

shall be deemed to consent to a search of said locker

and its contents with or without reasonable suspicion

that items other than those used for legitimate

purposes may be contained inside locker or cabinet.

All unauthorized items found in lockers can and will

be used as evidence in disciplinary actions and/or

criminal proceedings.

School authorities or police may search a locker at

any time the school authority suspects the presence

of illegal, indecent or dangerous material. The

search shall be done in private with school

authorities present.

Following are some guidelines to be followed with

regard to lockers:

1. A student should use only the locker in which

he/she has been assigned. No illegal, indecent, or

dangerous items or weapons may be stored in the

lockers.

2. School authorities may search a student’s locker

without prior warning and seize any

indecent, illegal, or dangerous items and may use this

evidence against the student.

3. The courts have upheld the searching of student

lockers because school authorities are charged with

the safety of all students under their supervision.

Courts have reasoned that the school extends locker

use to students only for legitimate purposes.

4. Lockers should be kept neat and clean.

5. Valuable items should not be kept in the locker.

6. Locks are not permitted on the locker.

7. Do not keep food items in the locker longer than

necessary.

EMERGENCY DRILLS

Emergency drills will be held periodically to provide

maximum security for students and staff of JBMS.

During all drills students are to remain quiet, orderly,

and follow directions given by school authorities.

VISITORS/ SCHOOL VISITATION

For the protection and safety of all our students, only

those visitors who are conducting school business

are permitted in a school building. All guest and

visitors must first report to the office, sign in, and

obtain a visitor’s badge. All school visitors will be

asked to show photo identification, and asked and

asked to sign consent not to take unauthorized

photos. Students are not permitted to bring guest to

school unless by consent of the school principal.

Parents who must bring lunches, coats, umbrellas,

etc., for their child(ren) should clearly mark their

child’s name on the item and report to the office.

Under no circumstances should a parent visit,

interrupt or disturb a classroom without a visitor’s

badge. It is imperative that all visitors must report to

the office. Failure to do so can result in charges with

the school resource officer.

TELEPHONE USE

The telephone in the office is not maintained for the

students to use.

The office phone should only be used with approval

and/or for emergencies.

Students will not be called from classes to answer

outside phone calls.

SCHEDULE CHANGES

No schedule changes will be made until interim

report number one is made and thereafter, only at the

end of each grading period. If you wish to have a

schedule change you must complete a schedule

change request form located in the James Buchanan

Middle School Office. Administrative discretion

may be used if it is in the best interest of the student.

WORK PERMITS

Work permits are issued at JBHS by the Attendance

Secretary. The office is open Monday through Friday

7:00 - 2:30 P. M.

A parent must accompany the minor to apply for a

work permit. A birth certificate is a requirement to

apply for a permit.

COMPLAINT PROCEDURE

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Parents/Guardians are reminded that when they have

a complaint, it is the district's procedure that it be

resolved at the lowest possible level and must be

presented in writing. The process typically would

follow these steps when there is a classroom concern

1. Classroom teacher

2. Building Administrator

3. District Office Administrator

4. School Board

Following this procedure will insure that the process

is not delayed. All complaints must be filed within

ninety (90) calendar days from the alleged incident.

Complaints that do not follow the steps above will be

redirected to insure that they are resolved at the

lowest level.

TUSCARORA SCHOOL DISTRICT

MEDICATION POLICY & HEALTH

SERVICES

Prescription medication may be given at school

when accompanied by a note giving parental

permission and physician’s directions indicating

dosage and times to be taken.

The medication must be sent to school in the original

prescription bottle with the student’s name, proper

dosage and the time to be given.

Students are not permitted to carry medication at

school. All prescription and non-prescription

medications are to be turned into the school nurse

and kept locked in the office.

Nurses cannot give medication to students without a

physician’s order. They may give medication that is

indicated on the standing order form, which is signed

by the school physician.

Medications will be logged by the person dispensing

the medication. This log shall indicate the student’s

name, the date and time the medication was

dispensed, and the initials of the person dispensing

the medication.

No medication will be given to students, prescription

or nonprescription, without a doctor’s order.

Students may carry their inhalers with them, if they

have a physician’s order and parental permission.

The information must be turned into the school

nurse.

Provisions may be made to have a student go home

if more than a period is required in the health room.

Health services in the middle school include:

1. Physical examination in Grade 6.

2. Dental examination in Grade 7.

3. Height and weight measurement in all grades.

4. Hearing tests in all grades.

If the nurse is absent from the office (room 116),

contact the main office. Students should always

check in at the nurse's office first. All students

should have a pass when reporting to the nurse.

Normally the school nurse is responsible for tending

to illness or injuries occurring in school or on the

way to and from school.

INSURANCE - STUDENT

The Tuscarora School Board makes available to the

students in the district an accident insurance policy.

The Board of Education has waived, under certain

circumstances, the requirement that all students in

inter-scholastic athletics, band, and cheerleading

must purchase the accident insurance available

through the schools. In order to waive the purchase

of such insurance, parents must sign a release form,

which is available in the nurse’s office.

ATHLETICS AND CHEERLEADING

SQUADS RULES

Students who participate in extracurricular activities

assume additional responsibilities. The student athlete and

cheerleader is a James Buchanan Middle School ambassador. Athletes and cheerleaders should conduct

themselves in a proper manner at all times and avoid

situations that will bring the James Buchanan Middle

School into disrepute.

a. Any athlete suspended under the district drug and

alcohol policy shall be dismissed from the team for the

remainder of the season and on probation the remainder of

the school year in athletics.

b. Any use or possession of drugs or alcohol with

administrative discretion may result in dismissal, probation

or other disciplinary action.

c. Use of tobacco in any form may result in disciplinary

action which may include dismissal and/or probation.

d. A required program of counseling as specified by the

administration may be invoked as a condition to maintain

probationary status. Failure to participate and complete this

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program would disqualify the athlete from participation in

the athletic program.

e. Athletes and cheerleaders must maintain passing grades

according to P. I. A. A. and the School District.

f. All athletes and cheerleaders must be prompt for practice

sessions as well as games.

g. Two (2) absences from practice without permission may be grounds to dismiss a player from an athletic team or

cheerleading squad.

h. All athletes and cheerleaders should return from athletic

contests on the team bus. Permission to return with parents may be given in special circumstances with prior approval

from the administration and coach. It is understood that all

athletes and cheerleaders will ride the team bus to athletic

contests.

i. Requirements for middle school athletic awards are

determined by established athletic guidelines.

j. Any player or cheerleader dismissed from a varsity team or cheerleading squad for disciplinary reasons may no

longer compete in that particular sport, until they serve a

probation period up to the discretion of the coaching staff

involved, the athletic director, and the administration.

k. Additional rules and regulations may be included by the

coach in charge of his/her particular sport with approval of

the athletic director and principal.

l. All athletes and cheerleaders must attend school a minimum of a half-day, the day of a practice or an athletic

contest to be eligible to participate on that day.

m. Permanent suspensions from teams and cheerleading

squads, other than automatic suspension, shall be cleared

through the athletic director and principal.

n. Students placed on suspension (in or out-of-school) are

not permitted to practice or participate in athletic events

during the suspended period.

o. A probation period, dismissal, or revocation of the privilege of trying out for or participating in any

interscholastic sport may be established at the discretion of

the Athletic Department and Administration for:

p. Out of season and summer violations of Athletic

Department and school policies and regulations.

q. Violations of the law and other acts which bring disrepute

or embarrassment to the School "in" or "out" of season.

r. No athlete should write articles to the news media

criticizing fellow team members, coaches, administration,

game officials, or other school personnel.

NOTE: Because of the nature of middle school sports,

administrative discretion may be used.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT/ STUDENT

ORGANIZATION

Student government will run in accordance with the

constitution which must be voted on annually. A

copy of that constitution is available upon request

and will be provided to each serving member.

SCHOOL STORE

A school store will be sponsored by the Student

Organization. Items such as paper, pencils,

notebooks, etc., will be sold.

STUDENT TRIPS.

Chaperones—all chaperones and volunteers are

required by the school district to provide up to

date copies of all clearances before they are

allowed to volunteer or chaperone. Depending

upon the number of students and their ages, a

sufficient number of chaperones should go on each

trip. At least one of the chaperones shall be a teacher

or administrator. At the time of submission of the

original trip request, all known chaperones should be

listed. Any others added later should be approved by

the administration before departure. Any adult

(other than a bus driver) shall be considered a

chaperone, not simply an invited guest. Parents

and/or other teachers are acceptable as additional

chaperones. Older students may go with groups of

younger students but are not to be given the

responsibility of regular chaperones. (The high

school students going to the environmental

experience with elementary or middle school

students are an example of this). The older students

should be properly supervised. The rules of conduct,

which apply to the students, also apply to the

chaperones with obvious limits.

Permission Slips--Parental permission is required

prior to any field trip. A form should be sent to the

parents giving the basic information about the trip.

Major rules, i.e. smoking, drinking, drugs, etc.

should be given on this form. The form for overnight

trips should have a question covering any unusual

medical problems. (It is conceivable that special

trips might require telephone permission, not

written.) If a parent refuses to provide permission

the student may not attend the trip. The parental

permission form shall include the right for the

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chaperone to seek medical care for the student if

necessary. If the parent refuses to provide

permission, the student may NOT attend the trip.

Chaperones are expected to supervise students at all

times and are to prevent unacceptable behavior

throughout the field trip.

Discipline-- All participants on a field trip should

understand the rules governing that trip in advance.

It should be understood that smoking, consumption

of alcohol, use of drugs, shoplifting, or any criminal

conduct is not to be tolerated on a trip. Should a

major violation occur, the chaperone should take

appropriate action, which may include sending the

offending student home early. In such a case, the

parent must be contacted first. No student should be

sent home unless provisions are made to receive the

student. The principal shall be informed

immediately and the principal shall inform the

superintendent as soon as possible. The student may

not be permitted on any further field trips for the

remainder of the school year.

Illness or Injury--Should any student become

seriously ill or be injured, the chaperone is to take

immediate and appropriate action. He/she should

seek help from local medical service personnel.

Depending on the seriousness of the illness or injury,

the parents should be contacted as soon as possible.

The principal and through him/her, the

superintendent should be informed.

Arrest of Students--Should a student be arrested,

the chaperone, standing in loco parentis, shall

attempt to secure the release of the student and, if

necessary, shall secure legal counsel for the student

through the local legal aid society or some similar

agency. It is the duty of the teacher, in loco parentis,

to assist in the defense of the student, not to assist in

his/her prosecution. This responsibility ceases when

the student is returned to the custody of his/her

parents. The parents of any arrested student shall be

informed as soon as possible. The principal shall be

informed and he/she shall inform the superintendent.

General--It is impossible, of course, to list every

contingency pertaining to field trips. Chaperones

should remember that the safety and health of each

student is their major responsibility.

Individuals or small groups of students may be

expected to take trips for special interests, student

government, organization officers, student forum,

community-based projects or other trips as may be

applicable. All rules and guidelines as mentioned

apply.

*Students may be denied permission to participate in

field trips by the administration or the school board,

if poor discipline, poor attendance or low academic

grades warrant exclusion.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND

PRIVACY ACT

EQUAL RIGHTS CLAUSE

The James Buchanan Middle School and the Tuscarora

School District practice nondiscrimination on the basis of

race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, handicap, and

political affiliation.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND

PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

affords parents and students over 18 years of age (“eligible

students”) certain rights with respect to the student’s

education records. These rights are:

1) The right to inspect and review the student’s education

records within 45 days of the day the school receives a request for access.

Parents or eligible students should submit to the school

principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they

wish to inspect. The school official will make

arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible

student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

2) The right to request the amendment of the student’s

education records that the parent or eligible student believes are inaccurate.

Parents or eligible students may ask the school to amend a

record that they believe is inaccurate. They should write the school principal clearly identifying the part of the

record they want changed and specifying why it is

inaccurate. If the school decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the school

will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision

and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding

the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or

eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing. 3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally

identifiable information contained in the student’s

education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.

One exception, which permits disclosure without consent,

is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational

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interests. A school official is a person employed by the school as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or

support staff member (including health or medical staff

and school security personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the school

has contracted to perform a special task (such as an

attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as

a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another

school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if

the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

Upon request, the school discloses education records

without consent to officials of another school district in

which a student seeks or intends to enroll. (NOTE:

FERPA requires a school district to make a reasonable

attempt to notify the parent or student of the records request unless it states in its annual notification that it

intends to forward records on request.)

4) Information which is labeled “directory information” by a school district is excluded from FERPA’s protection

from release and can be released without parental or

student consent. In this District the directory information that is released to the public consists of student names,

addresses, phone numbers, dates and places of birth, major

fields of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weights and heights of members of

athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards

received, the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student, pictures of students,

names and pictures of participants in various

extracurricular activities, or recipients of awards or other

similar information. If you do not want some or all of this

information about your child released, you may prevent its

disclosure by contacting the school district within twenty days after publishing of notice (beginning of school year).

Please address these requests to the Principal.

5) A more detailed explanation of your rights, the procedures to follow if you want to take advantage of

them, and the limitations on the release of records is

represented in the School District’s FERPA policy statement. You may obtain a copy of this policy by

contacting the SUPERINTENDENT'S OFFICE IN THE

ADMINISTRATION ANNEX. 6) The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department

of Education concerning alleged failures by the School

District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA

are:

Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, DC 20202-4605

NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY

It is the policy of the Tuscarora School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, age, color, creed, religion,

sex, handicap, ancestry or national origin in its admission,

educational and vocational programs, activities, or employment policies as required by Title VI of the Civil

Rights Act of 1964, Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

Student responsibilities include regular school

attendance, conscientious effort in classroom work,

and knowledge and conformance to school rules and

regulations. Students should also share with

administration and faculty a responsibility to develop

a climate within the school that is conducive to

wholesome learning and living.

No student has the right to interfere with the

education of his/her fellow students. It is the

responsibility of each student to respect the rights of

all who are involved in the educational process.

Further, students should express their ideas and

opinions in a respectful manner so as not to offend or

slander others.

Student's responsibilities are to:

1. Be aware of all rules and regulations for student

behavior and conduct themselves in accordance with

them.

2. Be willing to volunteer information in serious

disciplinary cases and cooperate with school staff.

3. Dress and groom themselves so as to meet fair

standards of safety, health, and common standards of

decency.

4. Assume that until a rule is waived, altered, or

repealed, it is in full effect.

5. Assist the school staff in running a safe school for

all students enrolled therein.

6. Attend school daily, except when excused, and be

on time to all classes and other school functions.

7. Make necessary arrangements for making up work

when absent from school.

8. Pursue and attempt to complete the course of study

prescribed by state and local school authorities.

9. Be aware that materials and books are loaned to

the students at the beginning of the semester.

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Students are expected to pay for materials and books

which are damaged, lost or stolen.

10. Exercise proper care when using public

equipment and facilities.

11. Be aware that when attending an activity at other

schools, you are subject to the rules and regulations

of that school and James Buchanan Middle School.

12. Be aware that teachers have the right to

recommend detention to students for misconduct.

SCHOOL JURISDICTION

All rights, responsibilities, and regulations shall

apply to all students:

1. On the school grounds before, during and

immediately after school hours.

2. On the school grounds as either a spectator or

participant.

3. Off the school grounds at any school activity,

function or event as a participant or spectator.

4. During the time going to and from school, and on

field trips.

ADMINISTRATIVE RESPONSIBILITIES

The administrative responsibilities are to:

1. Guarantee student rights and privileges to those

who demonstrate their willingness to accept

accompanying responsibilities.

2. Insure consistent and equitable application of the

school's discipline policy. Extenuating

circumstances might arise regarding the

interpretation of the application of the school's

discipline policy. When it is found to be in the best

interest of an individual or the total school

community, administrative discretion may be

utilized. The administration also has the right to

search and seizure under the notion of "reasonable

suspicion".

3. Provide for a safe and pleasant learning

atmosphere.

DISCIPLINE

DISCIPLINE POLICY PHILOSOPHY

The philosophy of the James Buchanan Middle

School is based on the fundamental belief that as

educators we are responsible for providing each

individual with opportunities to mature

intellectually, creatively, emotionally, socially,

ethically and physically; and that each individual

can grow within this spectrum only if he/she is

encouraged to identify and develop his/her unique

attitudes, abilities and interests. Such opportunities

for growth are best provided in a positive learning

environment characterized by an atmosphere of

openness and mutual respect for the personal worth

and dignity of each person.

In a democratic society each individual must learn to

work with his/her fellow man and share with them

the privileges and responsibilities of good

citizenship. The development of self-discipline and

acceptance of individual responsibility is one of the

important goals of education.

An effective discipline policy in a school is directly

related to the excellence of the total educational

program. Individuals who are motivated and who

possess a sense of responsibility are an inspiration to

others. It is the responsibility of the school and the

community to provide an atmosphere of purpose and

concern for the education and well being of every

person in the school environment. Such an

atmosphere ensures a free and unhampered

opportunity for teachers and students to grow and

achieve their mutual goals.

RESPECT FOR OTHERS

It is the matter of policy in the middle school that

students learn the value of respect for each other. If

each middle school student adopted the following

as their personal policy; we could have the best

school ever known.

1. Listen courteously and respectfully to the advice

of teachers and principals. They are probably better

informed than you are about the subject under

discussion, although it may be difficult for you to

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realize it at the time.

2. Recognize and admire the good qualities in your

classmates, regardless of their worldly

circumstances.

3. Protect the health and safety of others as well as

yourself.

4. Holding hands, kissing, etc. are out of place on

school property.

5. If you know something good about others, tell it.

If you know something bad, keep it to yourself or

forget it. Gossip brings nothing but trouble.

6. Always be proud to show respect and kindness to

the members of your immediate family. 7. Students who do not show respect for their school

(i.e. teachers, other students, etc.) may lose the

privilege of attending dances, assemblies, clubs,

class trips and other extra-curricular activities.

DISCIPLINE PROCEDURE DURING

ASSEMBLIES

Any student who demonstrates improper behavior

during assemblies or any enrichment programs may

be placed on assembly restriction for a period of

time to be determined by the administration. This

means attendance at such events will not be

permitted.

CHEATING POLICY

Cheating is any attempt by a student to represent

someone else’s work as their own, knowingly aid in

an attempt by another student to misrepresent

personal assignments, projects or tests. Students

cheating shall be subject to appropriate academic

penalties by the classroom teacher. Plagiarism is

one form of cheating. Plagiarism occurs when

anyone copies another writer’s language or ideas

without giving that person credit

First offense – Handled by teacher:

● Record or documentation to be kept by

teacher with copy sent to building

principal.

● Zero (0) grade to the given assignments,

projects or tests where cheating occurred

● Parents notified by teacher

Second offense – Notification to administration by

teacher:

● Conference held with parent, teacher and

administrator.

● Student receives failing grade for the

grading period.

● Additional penalties may be imposed by

the building administrator

Severe or persistent incidents of cheating shall

subject the student to exclusion/suspension

FIGHTING POLICY

Any student involved in a fight, being physically

aggressive or is inciting a riot will be subject to

disciplinary procedures:

Any student who is involved in the act of fighting

will face a 3 day suspension and possible

consequences with local district magistrate.

Participating/Inciting a fight may result in dance,

clubs, or class trip restriction for the remained school

year.

Administrative discretion shall be used in all cases

involving fighting. All altercations will be reported

to the School Resource Officer and could possibly

result in charges and/or fines.

HOMEWORK:

Homework will be 10% of the marking period

grade. Students who miss homework will be

assigned a zero for the assignment. Consistent

homework issues will require a parent contact at the

teacher’s discretion.

Students who miss homework because of an absence

will receive the opportunity to make up missed work.

Students are given one calendar day for each day

absent plus one extra day to turn in their work. It’s

the student's responsibility to get work missed due to

illness or absence.

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CAFETERIA RULES

In order for our cafeteria to be a pleasant place to eat,

the following rules should be followed:

Students should:

1. Arrive in the cafeteria within 3 minutes of

dismissal from class prior to lunch and be seated.

3. Get lunch from their locker before coming to the

cafeteria if they packed.

4. Return to the same seat after purchasing lunch.

5. Make sure their table is clean as well as the area

around their table.

6. Return trays, silverware, glasses, wastepaper, etc.,

to the washroom window via the designated route.

7. Wait at their seats to be dismissed to go outside or

back to class.

8. Show respect to other students as well as cafeteria

workers and teachers.

9. Students who are found to be

throwing/flicking/tossing food will be dismissed

from the cafeteria and/or be placed in ISS.

Students should not:

1. Engage in loud talking, yelling, screaming, etc.

2. Throw objects such as food, utensils, etc.

3. Jump line.

4. Cause physical harm to other students.

5. Leave the cafeteria at any time without being

excused by teacher.

6. Engage in rough-housing, pushing, shoving,

pulling clothes, etc..

7. Take any food out of the cafeteria.

8. Have birthday parties, etc. in the cafeteria.

9. Chew gum.

NOTE/BODY WRITING, PASSING NOTES

AND OTHER TYPES OF WRITING

Any note written or passed by students is not

acceptable. Notes containing derogatory or obscene

language will be treated the same as if it were

expressed verbally.

This will also include writing on the body or clothes.

Administration shall determine the extent of

discipline necessary in such cases.

PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION

Public display of affection is prohibited at JBMS.

Such offense shall include – holding hands, kissing,

hugging, etc. Administration shall determine the

extent of discipline necessary in such cases ranging

from a verbal warning to a suspension from school.

STEALING

Any student who steals or attempts to steal school

property or the property or monies of another

person shall be subject to suspension.

a. Charges may be filed with the appropriate

authorities.

b. The student will be required to make

restitution

c. Anyone assisting a student in stealing

shall be subject to the same penalties.

CLASS TRIPS / ACTIVITIES

The following criteria will be used to determine the

eligibility of students to attend class trips or end of

the year activities. Any student meeting one of the

criteria below will be disqualified from the class trip

and possibly other activities that occur at the end of

the school year.

1. Any student who has been suspended out-of-school one

time, placed in in-school suspension twice and/or

accumulated more than 5 days of ISS.

2. Students with more than 20 days of absences from school (less than 90% attendance), without extenuating

circumstances. This decision will be at the discretion of the

administrator.

3. Students failing two or more subjects for the year (accumulated average below 69%) at the final marking

period interim date and/or if class trip is scheduled to take

place before the final marking period interim date, students who are failing 2 or more subjects for the year at the end of

the 5th marking period may not be permitted to go on the

class trip. Administrative discretion shall be used to determine the cut-off date for grades because of the

18

scheduling of the class trips.

4. Any student receiving a truancy citation will not be

permitted on the class trip. (6 or more unexcused absences)

5. Any student with outstanding financial obligations to the

district will not be permitted to go on the class trip.

6.Any student with outstanding financial obligations to the

district will not be permitted to go on the class trip.

7 Persistent disregard for school rules, authority, or class work may result in exclusion from positive behavior

rewards.

*Administration reserves the right to change class trip

procedures.

Strike 1 Strike 2 Strike 3 Strike 4

Late to class 1st offense 2nd offense 3rd offense Future offenses

Class disruption 1st offense 2nd offense 3rd offense Future offenses

Disrespect* 1st offense 2nd offense 3rd offense Future offenses

Hallway misconduct 1st offense 2nd offense 3rd offense Future offenses

Horseplay 1st offense 2nd offense 3rd offense Future offenses

Insubordination* 1st offense 2nd offense 3rd offense Future offenses

Unprepared 1st offense 2nd offense 3rd offense Future offenses

Profanity* 1st offense Future offenses

Hitting All offenses

Inappropriate touching

All offenses

Bullying All offenses

Fighting All offenses

Theft All offenses

Threats All offenses

Tobacco All offenses

*These behaviors may be subject to teacher discretion based on severity

19

● Strike 1 – Teacher documents behavior through Google Docs and conferences with student

● Strike 2 – Teacher documents behavior through Google Docs and conferences with student – parent contact made

● Strike 3 – Teacher documents behavior through Sapphire, contacts parents, and submits a referral to administration

● Strike 4 – Office referral** -- admin handles all discipline and contacts

**Clear documentation of prior steps are required for all infractions except those that require an immediate office referral.

*All strikes are reset at the end of each six week period*

Administrative discretion may be used in certain situations. That discretion allows administration the ability to handle

certain scenarios in a way that may differ from the above matrix, but that will follow board policy

BUS POLICY

Buses will normally provide transportation to the middle school.

Parents may provide the necessary transportation, but all

students who travel to school by any other means must have

both parental and school approval in the form of a signed

statement by the parents of the student involved. This includes

riding to school with older brothers and sisters. STUDENTS

ARE NOT PERMITTED TO RIDE BICYCLES TO SCHOOL.

Bus passes are not given unless there is an emergency and only

if there is room on the requested bus. An Emergency Bus Change

Request Form can be found on the web-site under

Transportation/Parents and Students or requested from the office.

The Principal will approve or deny the request within 48 hours.

This form is to be used for emergencies only; if this privilege is

abused then unfortunately the request will be denied.

Examples of emergencies:

● Parents on a trip and student is staying with

someone else

● Death in the family (may be granted by notifying

the office by phone)

● Family Medical Emergency (may be granted by

notifying the office by phone)

Any time that the regular bus ride for the student is changed, the

middle school office must approve it. Such occasions are:

1. Students remaining after school (for other than regularly

scheduled activities).

2. Students going home on a bus other than their regularly

assigned bus.

3. Students who need to get off the bus at a place other than the

regularly assigned bus stop.

BUS DRIVERS ARE INSTRUCTED NOT TO ALLOW

ANY STUDENT ON HIS/HER BUS UNLESS THEY ARE

REGULARLY ASSIGNED TO THAT BUS OR HAVE A

BUS PASS FROM THE BUILDING PRINCIPAL.

No bus transfers will be issued on the last day of

school. Also no gym bags, book bags, or other conveyance items will be

permitted on the bus the last day of school.

No radios, tape players, recording devices, etc., are permitted on

the bus or in school.

Those students who do not ride a bus are not permitted in the

building before 8:10 A. M. unless under the direct supervision of

a faculty or staff member.

Student transportation is a privilege, the following outlines

what is expected of students who ride vehicles provided by the

Tuscarora School District. Abuse of these rules will result in

the loss of District transportation or assignment of

Community Service.

Behavior on School Buses/Vans

Cameras (audio and video) are installed on the buses for your

child’s protection. Because improper behavior jeopardizes the

safety of all passengers the following regulations will be strictly

enforced:

a. Students must be on time, plan to be at the bus stop 5

minutes before the bus arrives. The bus will not wait for

those who are tardy. Being on time keeps the bus on

schedule.

b. Students must board and leave the bus at their regular stop

location, unless written permission from the principal has

been received by the bus driver. Students that board at a

stop not assigned to them, without written permission from

20

administration will receive a referral. Bus passes protect our

students and drivers.

c. Throwing objects of any kind on or around the bus is

dangerous and will not be permitted. This behavior is

subject to charges under the law.

d. The driver has the right to assign seats. Students may be

required to sit three (3) to a seat. Students shall remain

seated at all times while the bus is in motion. Keep the aisle

clear.

e. Talking is permitted in a low conversational voice. This

allows the driver to hear emergency vehicles or if someone

needs help.

f. Students shall not use obscene or profane language in or

around the school bus.

g. Students shall not engage in pushing, fighting or other

unruly behavior in or around the bus. Bullying is absolutely

not tolerated.

h. No student shall disobey, abuse, or show disrespect for the

driver. The driver should be shown the same respect as a

teacher.

i. Students shall keep hands, head, and arms inside the bus at

all times. Windows shall remain closed unless the driver

gives permission to lower them.

j. Students shall not deface or damage any part of the vehicles.

Damage will be paid for by the individual.

k. There shall be no smoking, tobacco products or lighted

flames at any time in or around the bus.

l. There shall be no drinking any liquid or eating of food

unless permitted as a special privilege by the driver.

m. There shall be no littering from the vehicle or in the vehicle.

n. Students will keep all pencils and other sharp objects in

pockets, purses or book bags.

BUS DISCIPLINE POLICY

a. All rules and regulations concerning student behavior should

be well known and clearly understood by the administration,

teachers, parents, bus drivers and students.

b. Students transported by the Tuscarora School District are

under the authority of and responsible to the driver of the

vehicle.

c. A driver cannot require a student to leave the bus before

such student has reached his/her destination UNLESS the

behavior of a student endangers the safety of other students

or the bus driver. If such an emergency arises, the driver is

to pull their vehicle out of the line of traffic, call the State

Police to remove that particular student from the bus. As

soon as possible, the driver will call the Contractor, Principal

and/or Transportation Director and inform him/her of the

incident. A written report must be submitted to the Principal

within 24 hours. A conference with parents, student,

Principal and Transportation Director is required before the

student can be reinstated.

If a student is suspended/expelled from the bus, it is the

responsibility of the parent/guardian to transport him/her to/from

school. Once a driver has received notification of

suspension/expulsion of a student they shall not transport the

student. The student is not permitted to enter any vehicle

controlled by the Tuscarora School District during the

suspension.

Consequences for student violating bus rules will be as

follows:

1st offense: Principal judgment and parent notification.

2nd offense: Principal judgment, written notification to the

parent.

3rd offense: Will be referred to the Transportation Director with

recommendation for suspension/expulsion from the bus 1-5

days.

4th offense: Will be referred to the Transportation Director with

recommendation for suspension/expulsion from the bus 6-10

days.

5th offense: May result in long term suspension from the bus

including withdrawal of bus privileges for a period between 11

days and the balance of the school year.

In unique cases when transportation suspension is not an option,

the student may be required to complete Community Service

assignments during recess or study hall.

*Action taken for bus referrals is defined by the school board

policy. Administrative discretion may be used in all bus

offenses.

CLASS TRIPS / ACTIVITIES

The following criteria will be used to determine the eligibility of

students to attend class trips or end of the year activities. Any

student meeting one of the criteria below will be disqualified

from the class trip and possibly other activities that occur at the

end of the school year.

1. Any student who has been suspended out-of-school one time,

placed in in-school suspension twice and/or accumulated more

than 5 days of ISS.

2. Students with more than 20 days of absences from school

(less than 90% attendance), without extenuating circumstances.

This decision will be at the discretion of the administrator.

3. Students failing two or more subjects for the year

(accumulated average below 69%) at the final marking period

interim date and/or if class trip is scheduled to take place before

the final marking period interim date, students who are failing 2

or more subjects for the year at the end of the 5th marking

period may not be permitted to go on the class trip.

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Administrative discretion shall be used to determine the cut-off

date for grades because of the scheduling of the class trips.

4. Any student receiving a truancy citation will not be permitted

on the class trip. (6 or more unexcused absences)

5.. Any student with outstanding financial obligations to the

district will not be permitted to go on the class trip.

6. Persistent disregard for school rules, authority, or class work

may result in exclusion from positive behavior rewards.

*Administration reserves the right to change class trip

procedures.

BULLYING POLICY

Bullying is an unacceptable behavior at James Buchanan Middle

School. Pupils deserve to learn in a supportive, caring and safe

environment without the fear of being bullied. Bullying is an

anti-social behavior and affects everyone; it is unacceptable and

will not be tolerated. Only when all issues of bullying are

addressed will pupils be able to fully benefit from the

opportunities available at school.

Bullying is defined as deliberately hurtful behavior, repeated

over a period of time, where it is difficult for those being bullied

to defend themselves. The three main types of bullying are:

Physical (hitting, kicking….)

Verbal (name calling, racist remarks….)

Indirect (spreading rumors, excluding someone…)

Consequences of bullying are:

Subject to administrative discretion and board policy based

on the severity of the incident. Consequences may range from

conflict resolution to OSS.

Implementation

The following steps may be taken when dealing with incidents:

If bully is suspected or reported, the incident will be

dealt with immediately by a member of the staff.

A clear account of the incident will be recorded and

given to faculty recorder.

A summary of incidents will be kept on the faculty

drive.

Consequences of bullying shall include: activity detention, in-

school or out of school suspension, filing charges with the police

and referral to the Board of School Directors if the situation

warrants.

If a student feels he or she is being bullied, he or she should tell

a teacher, administrator, guidance counselor, parent or any

adult. If the student feels the situation has not been addressed

sufficiently, he or she should file a written complaint in the

office on the appropriate form. The guidance counselor or

administrator shall take the appropriate action.

DRESS CODE

Clothing generally depicts personality and character. In addition,

clothing often influences behavior. Students are expected to dress

in a manner that well represents James Buchanan Middle School.

Many clothing options that are popular outside of school may

not be appropriate in an educational environment. Our dress

code is established to provide certain guidelines that allow

individuality while maintaining an atmosphere where learning is

the primary goal.

1. Any dress that is either immodest or disruptive is

considered a disciplinary offense and shall be treated

as such.

2. Hats, caps, hoods, bandanas, sweatbands, head

coverings, sunglasses, coats, and jackets may not be

worn in class.

3. Cut-off shorts/ shirts and clothing with holes, rips

tears or frays are not permitted. This includes pants

or shorts with holes that are patched on the other side

and manufactured frays and rips.

4. Students are permitted to wear shorts and skirts which

must extend from below the mid-thigh to the top of

the knees when the student is standing with good

posture. Short-shorts, mini-skirts, and

skirts/shorts/pants with slits are prohibited. Students

are not permitted to wear spandex, leggings, and/or

tights as pants unless they are layered with a skirt,

shorts, or dress that meets dress code requirement

for skirts or shorts. 5. All pants and skirts must be worn at waist level and

cannot be worn “sag styles”. Undergarments should

not be visible to others when seated, standing, or

walking.

6. The neckline of all garments must be modest. No

undergarments and no cleavage should be visible to

others.

7. NO Tank tops or low cut tops, spaghetti straps, see-

through blouses, muscle shirts, tube tops, strapless

attire are not permitted. Undergarments should

not be visible.

8. Manufactured sleeveless shirts are permitted with

administrative discretion. The arm hole must be no

bigger than the students arm.

9. Shirts and blouses must be worn that they meet the

lower garments under all circumstances. Bare midriffs

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and bare backs are not permitted.

10. Students are prohibited from wearing articles of dress

and/or accessories which may constitute a health or

safety hazard (i.e. chains for watch, wallet or key,

spiked bracelets, etc.)

11. Articles which mock, ridicule, demean, or provoke

others because of race, religion, national origin, or

individual views are prohibited.

12. Disruptive Clothing with profanity,

drug/tobacco/alcohol references, confederate flags, or

suggestive pictures, words or letters are prohibited.

13. School administration has the ability to disallow other

unusual or bizarre clothing which may interfere with

the educational process.

14. All special classroom or building celebrations

requiring a change in dress standards will be approved

by the building administration prior to the event.

15. Backpacks and large carry-alls are prohibited in the

halls or class. (Administration reserves the right to

allow or clarify the acceptable size.)

Disciplinary corrective action will include:

a. Student violators will not be permitted to attend class

and will receive a documented warning. Students will

be asked to change their clothing before returning to

class. The student will be asked to wear school-

provided clothing or replacement clothing from home.

Any student dressed improperly who cannot/will not

change clothing will be sent to ISS for the remainder

of the day.

b. Any additional offenses will result in suspension

because of the student’s repeated failure to comply

with the district’s dress standards (insubordination).

CELL PHONES/ ELECTRONIC DEVICES:

Students are not permitted to have electronic devices in school,

on school property or at school-sponsored events. These include,

but not limited to: radios, tape and CD/DVD players, MP3 and

iPod players, video games, headphones, universal remotes, laser

pens, pagers, beepers, cameras, and other portable devices.

Cellular phones that have the capability to take photographs or

record audio or video are not permitted to be used during the

school day in district buildings. Additionally, any device that

provides for a wireless unfiltered connection to the internet in not

permitted to be used during the school day in district buildings.

The use of cellular phones is prohibited during school hours. In

an effort to accommodate students involved in after-school

activities, possession of a cell phone will be permitted under the

following stipulations:

a. The cell phone must turned off and not visible

during the school day.

b. The use of cell phones will be allowed after the

close of the school academic day.

Violations shall result in the following disciplinary action:

● 1st incident- Administrative conference-phone may be

returned to student or parents may pick up at the end

of the school day in the office

● 2nd incident-administrative conference and parents

pick up phone in office

● 3rd incident-ISS, parents pick up phone in office

● 4th incident and up- Increase in ISS time

Students found taking pictures during the school day and/or

on the bus may be subject to stricter disciplinary action

based on administrative discretion.

HAZING POLICY

Hazing of any type or to any degree is not permitted in the

Tuscarora School District including James Buchanan Middle

School. Such incidents will be dealt with at the discretion of the

administration. The district policy regarding hazing shall be

followed.

RACIAL MISCONDUCT

Any student engaging in verbal/physical racial abuse of another

student will not be tolerated.

Administrative discretion in regard to Tuscarora School

District School Board of Director’s policy will be followed.

Consequences may range from administrative conference to

OSS.

COMPUTER ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY

The Tuscarora School District and JBMS have an Acceptable Use Policy

(A.U.P.) which governs the use of computers by students and staff. The policy will be given to all students near the beginning of the school year

along with a presentation by the staff to clarify the policy for the students.

Students are responsible for knowing the guidelines of the A.U.P. and following those guidelines. Any violations of the A.U.P. can result in

detention, suspension and/or loss of computer or network privileges for a

period of time. (See Computer Use – Page 9)

DRUG/ALCOHOL POLICY

I. Philosophy Tuscarora School District responsibility is to safeguard the health

and safety of all students. Since the abuse of substances

constitutes a health hazard, the administration of the Tuscarora

School District shall:

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1. Provide for controlled substance education in the secondary

schools. Instruction shall be suitable to age of the students.

2. Cooperate with any law enforcement agency in the

investigation of controlled substance use and/or sale.

3. Seek the cooperation of students in controlling the use of

controlled substances by students.

4. Pursue any method of resources necessary to curtail drug

problems.

5. Maintain an identification, referral and tracking system for at

risk children. The system shall be called the Caring Assisting

Referral Experts (CARE team).

II. Definitions

1. Drugs—All prescription drugs, patent drugs, controlled

substances or volatile chemicals or over the counter drugs.

2. Prescription Drugs—Those medicines prescribed by a

physician.

3. Patent Drugs—Those drugs sold over the counter without a

prescription. Example: steroids, caffeine pills, cough syrup.

4. Controlled Substance—Those substances identified in the

schedule contained in the “The Controlled Substance, Drug,

Device and Cosmetic Act” of the Commonwealth of

Pennsylvania.

5. Alcohol—Beverages sold under state license containing

alcohol.

6. Misbranded Substances—Those substances offered for sale

or sold under the name of a drug or in such a manner as to give

rise to a reasonable probability that the purchaser will be led to

believe that he is purchasing a drug. This includes “look alike”

substances.

8. Drug or Substance Paraphernalia—Includes any utensil or

item which, in the school’s judgment, can be associated with the

use of drugs, alcohol, or mood altering substances. Examples of

this include, but are not limited to: roach clips, injection needles,

pipes, bowls, rolling papers, “bongs” marijuana seeds, etc.

III. PROCEDURES

1. Emergency Situation—When there is evidence that a student

is functioning under the influence of a controlled substance, the

following procedure is in order:

a. School authorities will seek immediate medical

attention for the student.

b. Parents will be notified.

c. The school nurse shall be informed and involved at

all times.

d. The Ad Hoc Representative from Franklin/Fulton

Drug and Alcohol Program shall be involved when

needed

e. Punishment will follow under the user/possessor

procedure.

2. The district reserves the right where reasonable suspicion exists

for the administrator to administer an alcohol content test. This

test will help students in two ways. First, if a reasonable suspicion

exists and the test shows there is no alcohol present; the student

will be exonerated of any accused misconduct. Secondly, if a

student tests positively, it will show there is a problem that needs

to be addressed by the student and his/her parents.

3. At the discretion of the administration, preliminary screening

for alcohol abuse shall be used. The Tuscarora School District

prohibits the use, possession, sale, or distribution of any drug,

alcohol, misbranded substance, volatile chemical, or drug

paraphernalia on school property, on school buses, or at any

school sponsored activity.

4. User/Possessor—first offense – each step to be followed as

outlined:

a. State police may be notified.

b. Parents will be notified.

c. School nurse will be informed and involved

d. The student, his/her locker, desk, car and other

possessions may be searched.

e. Three-day temporary suspension will be issued.

f. The matter will be referred to superintendent’s office

for informational purposes.

g. Full suspension of the student for up to a ten-day

period after an informal due process hearing in the

office of the principal within three days of the

temporary suspension.

h. Require a parent conference with the school

administration prior to readmission to school.

(Discuss/Determine educational placement for the

remainder of the school year)

i. Referral to CARE Team for assessment and/or

evaluation.

j. Referral to an approved drug counseling agency and

documentation of sessions will be required before

readmission to school. Failure to do so may require the

student’s dismissal from the regular education program.

If this course of action is not undertaken by parents, the

administration reserves the right to file charges with the

probation department and/or police department.

k. Possible expulsion from school and referral to

alternative education.

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l. The administration reserves the right to use its

discretion in all first offense cases.

James Buchanan Middle School will follow the process and

procedures determined by the AEDY process and Tuscarora

School Board of Directors Policy regarding drugs/alcohol.

1. Self-help

When a student is seeking help, offer help immediately,

through agencies/counselors, etc. CONFIDENTIALITY

will be honored. Students seeking self-help will not be

subjected to the discipline procedure as long as the

recommendations of the CARE Team are followed. The

administration will use discretion in all self-help cases.

2. Prescribed Medication (Medical and/or Parental)

It is recognized that prescribed medication may need to be

administered to students in school. This policy is not

designed to infringe on these circumstances.

TOBACCO POLICY

Smoking or possession of tobacco in any form is prohibited

before, during or after school in the building, on the grounds, at

extracurricular activities, on the bus, at bus stop areas and on

field trips. Under the new tobacco law a student can be fined if

in violation of the school’s rules on smoking and tobacco.

1st offense - Exclusion from classes for a period of 3 days and

assembly and dance restriction for the marking period and a Care

Team Referral

2nd offense- Exclusion from class for a period of 5 days assembly,

dance and class trip restriction for the year.

3rd offense - Out-of-school suspension and informal hearing

which may result in a longer period of suspension of up to 10

days, assembly, dance and class trip restriction for the year

4th offense - The student may be referred to the superintendent

and school board for possible expulsion from school.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY

It is the Policy of the Tuscarora School District to maintain a

learning and working environment that is free from sexual

harassment.

It shall be a violation of this policy for any member of the district

staff to harass a student through conduct or communications of a

sexual nature as defined below. “It shall also be a violation of

this policy for students to harass other students through conduct

or communications of a sexual nature as defined below”.

Sexual harassment shall consist of unwelcome sexual advances,

requests for sexual favors, and other inappropriate verbal or

physical conduct of a sexual nature when made by any member

of the school staff to a student, when made by any member of the

school staff to another staff member or when made by any student

to another student or student to school staff when:

1. Submission to such conduct is made whether explicitly or

implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment

or education, or when

2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct by an

individual is used as the basis for academic or employment

decisions affecting that individual, or when

3. Such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially

interfering with an individual’s academic or professional

performance or creating an intimidating hostile, or offensive

employment or education environment.

Sexual harassment, as defined above may include, but is not

limited to the following: verbal harassment or abuse;

pressure for sexual activity; repeated remarks to a person,

with sexual or demeaning implications; unwelcome

touching; suggesting or demanding sexual involvement

accompanied by implied or explicit threats concerning one’s

grades, job, etc.

Any person who alleges sexual harassment by any staff

member or student in the district may use the district’s

complaint procedure or may complain directly to his/her

immediate supervisor, building principal, guidance

counselor or other individual designated to receive such

complaints. Filing of a complaint or otherwise reporting

sexual harassment will not reflect upon the individual’s

status nor will it affect future employment, grades or work

assignments.

The district will act positively to investigate alleged sexual

harassment claims and to effectively remedy them when an

allegation is determined to be valid.

The right to confidentiality, both of the complainant and of the

accused, will be respected consistent with the district’s legal

obligations, and with the necessity to investigate allegations of

misconduct and to take corrective action when this conduct has

occurred.

A substantiated charge against a student in the school district shall

subject that student to student disciplinary action including

suspension or expulsion, consistent with the student discipline

code.

Given the nature of the type of discrimination, the district also

recognizes that false accusations of sexual harassment can have

serious effects on innocent people. Therefore, false accusations

will result in the same severe disciplinary action application to

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one found “guilty” of sexual harassment.

In accordance with the Tuscarora School District Sexual

Harassment Policy, the James Buchanan Middle School will not

tolerate acts of sexual harassment. The following procedures

shall be used in cases of sexual harassment:

Administrative discretion will be used in all cases of sexual

harassment. The punishment for each case may include After

School Detention, In-School- Suspension, Out-of-School

Suspension and/or filing charges with the state police.

TERRORISTIC THREATS

Terroristic threats to other students or to staff shall not be

tolerated. The administrator shall have discretion in all such

cases. Options shall include: detention, in-school suspension,

out-of-school suspension, expulsion, and filing of charges with

the police.

Verbal threats of violence against school property or individuals

where no intent was proven may constitute suspension out of

school for at least 3 days. If intent to harm persons or property

is suspected, additional action may be taken, including 10 days

out-of-school and/or school board action

POSSESSION OF WEAPONS ON SCHOOL PROPERTY 1. Definition - for purposes of this section, weapons shall include

but not be limited to any knife, cutting instrument, cutting tool,

firearm, shotgun, rifle, and any other tool, instrument, or

implement capable of inflicting serious bodily injury.

2. Offense defined - A person commits a misdemeanor of the first

degree if he possesses a weapon in the building, on the grounds,

or in any conveyance providing transportation to or from any

elementary or secondary publicly funded educational institution.

This includes activities held at other locations both public and

private when it is a school sponsored activity.

3. Defense - It shall be a defense that the “weapon” is possessed

and used in conjunction with a lawful supervised school activity

or course.

4. NO WEAPON SHALL BE PERMITTED ON ANY BUS OR ON

SCHOOL PROPERTY. ANY STUDENT OR VISITOR IN

POSSESSION OF A WEAPON MAY BE PROSECUTED

ACCORDING TO LAW. IN ADDITION, THE

ADMINISTRATION SHALL USE ITS DISCRETION IN THE

DISCIPLINING OF STUDENTS POSSESSING A WEAPON.

5. Possession of dangerous weapons on school property is a very

serious offense and will result in a long term suspension or

expulsion depending on the specific circumstances.

DANCES - JBMS RULES

1. Only students who attend JBMS on a daily basis may attend

dances. JBMS/LIU students not housed at JBMS may attend after

informing JBMS administration. These students must have

approval from the home school administration.

2. Dress restrictions are the same as during regular school hours.

This includes restrictions for tank tops, length of shorts and skirts,

hats, etc. Shoes are to be soft soled (sneaker type), at no time will

boots or dress shoes be allowed.

3. Demonstrations of affection such as kissing, hugging, etc., are

forbidden.

4. Gym rules regarding food and drink are still in effect. No food

or drink is permitted in the gym.

5. Students who have received In-School Suspension or Out-of-

School Suspension in the past 90 school days

6. Students who are failing two or more classes for the current

marking period and/or year may be restricted for academics.

7. Any student with obligations to the school will be not be

permitted to attend the class trip and or dance.

Consequences or failure to comply with these rules may result in

the student being asked to leave the dance and/or loss of the

privilege to come to future dances.

Administration reserves the right to change the handbook policies to

fit the needs of the students and the safety of the building. All changes

will be made with the approval of the Superintendent and the school

board.