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Clifton Middle School 1000 Riverview Farm Road

Covington, VA 24426 Phone (540)-863-1726 Fax (540)-863-1730

Guidance (540)-863-1727 Cafeteria (540)-863-1729

Nurse (540)-863-1734

Dear Students and Parents:

On behalf of the staff of Clifton Middle School, I welcome you to the 2016-2017 school

year. As principal my door is always open to you. I enjoy meeting with students and parents to

share joys as well as concerns. Everything possible has been arranged to ensure a happy and

successful year for your child. You are welcome to visit the school at any time, and to contact

your child’s teacher or the office when you have a concern relating to your child’s education.

This handbook is designed to help you and your child become familiar with Clifton

Middle School. It contains valuable information to help you to become acquainted with the

operation of Clifton Middle and to guide your child in achieving success at school. Please take

the time to read through this handbook and the Alleghany County Public Schools Parent-

Student Handbook with your child so that each of you will be aware of the school’s policies

and procedures. Your cooperation in returning all forms that require signatures promptly is

appreciated.

Your child’s success and happiness at Clifton Middle will depend upon his or her attitude

toward class work, homework, and the school in general. Very little can be accomplished

without hard work and cooperation. It is the goal of the staff of Clifton Middle to provide an

environment where each student has the opportunity to develop intellectually, physically,

socially, morally, and emotionally to his or her maximum potential. Let us know of any concerns

you may have.

Have a great school year!

Kim Crandall

Principal

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Clifton Middle School

2016-2017 STUDENT HAND BOOK

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE NO.

WELCOME 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2

STAFF & FACULITY 3-5

INTRODUCTION, MISSION STATEMENT, PHILOSOPHY 6

OBJECTIVES 6-7

SCHOOL-COMMUNITY INTERACTION 7

STUDENT ATTENDANCE 8

TARDIES, EARLY DISMISSAL, PERFECT ATTENDANCE 8

STUDENTS NOT ARRIVING OR DEPARTING BY BUS IN THE

MORNING AND AT THE END OF THE SCHOOL DAY 8

DAILY BELL SCHEDULE 9

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL, STUDENT TRANSPORTATION 10

ADDRESS/PHONE CHANGES 11

HALL BEHAVIOR/CHANGING CLASSES 11

TELEPHONE, GRADING POLICY 11

HONOR ROLL HONOR CODE, ACADEMIC HONOR SOCIETY 12

CAFERTERIA PROCEDURES AND CONDUCT 12-13

SCHOOL SERVICES 13-14

STUDENT ATHLETICS 14

STUDENT LOCKERS 14

USE OF ELEVATOR 14

USE OF GUM 15

STUDENT CONDUCT 15

LAW ENFORCEMENT/SCHOOL RELATIONS 15

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER 15

SECURITY CAMERAS 16

ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ENTERING CMS 16

STUDENT DRESS 16-18

DEFINITIONS OF BULLYING & CYBERBULLING 18

DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES 18-23

VISITORS, SCHOOL SPONSORED ACTIVITIES 24

STUDENT’S PERSONAL PROPERTY 24

STUDENT SCHOLASTIC RECORDS 24-25

FIRE DRILLS/EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURES 25

FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION 25

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE AND MOMENT OF SILENCE 25

CHARACTER COUNTS 26

PTO, PARENT ADVISORY, VOLUNTEER PROGRAM 26

WORK PERMITS 26

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Clifton Middle School School Year 2016-2017 Telephone (540)-863-1726

Guidance (540)-863-1727

Cafeteria (540)-863-1729

Nurse (540)-863-1734

Fax (540)-862-1730

Principal Kimberly Crandall

Assistant Principal Amy R. Dew

Secretary Karen Mays

Bookkeeper Paula B. Thurston

Guidance Counselor Suzanne Smith

Amanda McNabb

Guidance Secretary Melissa O. Borduas

Language Arts Teachers Lisa Hansford - 6th

Grade

Mary Persinger - 6th

Grade

Julie Stanley - 6th

Grade

Garlynda A. Haynes - 7th

Grade

Vickie L. Ryder - 7th

Grade

Elizabeth Buchanan - 8th Grade

Tonya Jones - 8th

Grade

Jennifer Taylor - 7th

& 8th

Grade

Math Teachers

Steven Baker -6th

Grade

Lorri M. Saville - 6th

Grade

Jessi Turner - 6th

& 7th

Grades (7th

Algebra)

Patty Anderson - 7th, & 8

th Grade

Andrea Camper - 7th

& 8th

Grade

Crystal Wimmer - 7th

Grade

Esther Allman - 8th

Grade & Algebra

Fred M. Humphreys - 8th

Grade Algebra,

Geometry

Drek W. Moore - 8th

Grade

Science Teachers Linda Reyns - 6th

& 7th

Grade

Amanda W. Sargent - 6th

Grade

Candice P. Dupoise - 7th

Grade

Fred M. Humphreys - 8th

Grade

George M. Wood - 8th

Grade

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Social Studies Teachers Joshua Craft - 6th

Grade

Civics - 8th

Grade Margaret Sizemore - 6th

& 7th

Grades

Nancy Bradley - 7th

Grade

Tangelia A. Cline - 8th

Grade

Stephanie B. Persinger - 8th

Grade

Art Kaarn Thomas

Band George Saunders

Kaitlyn Miller

Foreign Language Pamela Dager (French)

Lucrecia Polo (Spanish)

Gifted Martha Nicholson

Keyboarding Cynthia Fox

Librarian Susan Lynch

Music Kathryn Crutchfield

Physical Education Madison Carter & Mt. View

Charles D. Leitch

Renada S. Nicely

Special Education Kelly R. Bostic - Team Chair

Ruth Copenhaver

Willis Fields

Robert J. Umstead

Winnett S. Whitaker

Speech Susan Wohlford

TTRT Deborah Bowyer

Technology Jerry Morgan

Computer Lab Manager Andrew Glisson - 6th

Grade

Lorrie Humphreys - 7th

Grade

Tracey Hepler - 8th

Grade

Teacher Assistants Anita Bird Christine Hosey

Karen Bradley Terri Slate

Melissa Church *

Nurse Lisa Botkins

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Custodians Jackie Brown

Steve Craft

Jeff Irvine

Shelldon Shue

Elizabeth Simpson

Darrel Tucker

Bus Drivers Teresa Ailstock Debbie Michie

Jim Hallet Marion Nicely

Chuck Harlow Francis Rollison

Bron Hendrickson Stan Sizemore

J. P. Kern Marlene Smith

Gini Lekan Beverly Stogdale

Ed Mansfield Jodi Vaughn

Nathan Manspile

Cafeteria Staff Debra Buckner – Manager

Lisa Carr Patricia Johnson

Gail Craft Donna Nicely

Leese Dudley Sue Nicely

Angela Garcia Tracey Thompson

Leona Horton Mary Tucker

Debbie Jeffries

School Resource Officer Laura Rogers

* To be announced

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INTRODUCTION

The purpose of the Clifton Middle School Student/Parent Handbook is to answer some possible

questions about the school for students, parents, and other interested individuals.

This handbook along with the division’s Parent/Student Handbook should be kept for future

reference regarding all aspects of the school operation.

We encourage all students to strive to be the best they can be. To reach your best will take hard

work, dedication, and commitment to apply yourself at the highest level on a daily basis.

Demonstrate good character, show respect, and make good decisions. Please read it carefully and

ask questions of the administration, staff or teachers should any areas be unclear.

The school calendar, including make-up days, has been included to help parents and students

plan for the school year.

MISSION STATEMENT

Clifton Middle School is committed to improving the learning skills of students and providing

quality instruction in a safe, positive, nurturing, success-oriented environment, so that all

students have the opportunity to reach their full learning potential and have the tools to make

sound decisions for their future.

PHILOSOPHY

We, the faculty, staff, and parents of Clifton Middle School, believe that the purpose of education

is to help each student to develop his or her potential so that he or she will enjoy school, work

well with his or her fellow students, and be prepared to make a positive contribution to society.

Our purpose is to provide an opportunity for each student to acquire fundamental skills of

learning and to have a wide range of experiences so that his or her abilities and talents will be

challenged.

While all children have different strengths, all should have the same opportunity to obtain the

skills they will need to enter the adult world. Clifton Middle will offer programs that provide for

varied interests and abilities, keeping in mind that the equality of the program deserves as much

consideration as the quantity. Clifton Middle School accepts the premise that the center of the

school curriculum is the student and that the instructional program should be tailored to fit each

child’s developmental pattern of learning.

GOAL & OBJECTIVES

The goal of Clifton Middle School is to provide an environment within which each student has

the opportunity to develop intellectually, physically, socially, morally, and emotionally to his or

her maximum potential.

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Clifton Middle School will continue to focus on the educational objectives established by the

Commonwealth of Virginia. These goals are stated in the Standards of Quality and are designed

to help students to:

develop competence in the basic learning skills,

develop the intellectual skills of rational thought and creativity,

acquire knowledge of science and technology,

progress on the basis of achievement,

qualify for further education and/or employment,

establish personal standards of ethical behavior and moral choice,

participate as a responsible family member and citizen,

acquire an appreciation of quality in the environment,

develop an appreciation for the arts, and

acquire a basic understanding and appreciation of democracy.

SCHOOL-COMMUNITY INTERACTION

Clifton Middle School realizes that community support is an integral ingredient for school

success. To ensure all stakeholders are informed, the following are in place:

1. A student/parent handbook is provided for each family at the beginning of the school

year or when children are enrolled during the year.

2. Home visitations are made as the need arises.

3. An open house is held before school opens in the fall.

4. Parent Advisory meetings will be held throughout the school year.

5. Parent-Teacher conference days are scheduled in the school calendar. Other

conferences are scheduled before, during, and after school as the need arises.

6. Six-weeks reports will be sent home to every student.

7. Semester or six-week objectives will be sent home to keep parents informed of SOL

Objectives their children will be covering.

8. Newspaper articles will focus attention on the school and its activities.

9. The public is invited to student performances, lunch and other activities during the

school year.

10. Field trips to local businesses and educational points of interest are scheduled each

year

11. The school invites speakers from local organizations and businesses to present

programs in the school.

12. The school facilities are used by local organizations as upon request.

13. Citizens of the community are encouraged to be involved in our volunteer program to

provide leadership and assistance.

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STUDENT ATTENDANCE

Please refer to the Alleghany County Public Schools 2016-2017 Parent-Student

Handbook for information on student attendance.

TARDY STUDENTS

EARLY DISMISSAL/PERFECT ATTENDANCE

Students arriving at school after the tardy bell must present a written excuse when they arrive.

Frequent tardies will be handled as part of the attendance policy and may result in a student being

considered for retention. In addition, a combination of six tardies to school and/or early

dismissals from school may be considered as equivalent to one day of absence and will affect

perfect attendance.

STUDENTS NOT ARRIVING OR DEPARTING BY BUS

IN THE MORNING AND AT THE END OF THE SCHOOL DAY

Parents who are picking up their children at first dismissal and are not entering the building must

provide the office with written permission. Any student leaving school without written parental

permission may face disciplinary action.

Parents are reminded that it is against state law to ever pass a bus that has the red lights flashing.

Bus drivers will report any license number of vehicles that violate this law.

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2016-17 CMS Bell Schedule BLOCK 1 (90 min)

8:25-8:30 (attendance & announcements)

8:30-9:55

(Period 1) 8:25-9:10 (45 min)

(Period 2) 9:10-9:55 (45 min)

FALCON TIME (45 min)

9:59-10:44

BLOCK 2 (86 min classes - 111 min total with 3 lunches – 2nd

lunch classes will have a split

block)

10:48-12:39

1st Lunch – 10:48-11:13 (25 min) 6

th Grade Lunch

(Period 3) -11:13 -11:56

(Period 4) -11:56 -12:39

(Period 3) – 10:48-11:31 (43 min)

2nd

Lunch – 11:31-11:56 (25 min) 7th

Grade Lunch &

8th

(Period 4) – 11:56-12:39 (43 min) Grade Elective

Classes

(Period 3) - 10:48 - 11:31

(Period 4) - 11:32 - 12:14

3rd

Lunch – 12:14-12:39 (25 min) 8th

Grade Lunch

(Core Classes)

BLOCK 3 (86 min)

12:43-2:09

(Period 5) 12:43-1:26 (43 min)

(Period 6) 1:26-2:09 (43 min)

BLOCK 4 (85 min)

2:13-3:38

(Period 7) 2:13-2:56 (43 min)

(Period 8) 2:56-3:38 (42 min)

1st Dismissal 3:38

2nd

Dismissal 3:50 Updated 8/15/16

*Transition time between classes is 4 minutes.

Planning

1st Block Electives

2nd

Block Language Arts

3rd

Block Math

4th

Block Social Studies & Science

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ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL FOR CAR RIDERS

Students being picked up or being dropped off by parents will use the front entrance at Clifton

Middle School. Any student not being transported by bus must have a parent note on file in the

office stating their mode of transportation. Students are not to leave with anyone that has not

been documented in writing by the parent. Students must not be dropped off in the mornings

prior to 8:00 a.m. Student being picked up in the afternoon will be released at 3:38.

Early Release / Leaving School with Friends or Relatives

Early release must be approved in the office. Students must be signed out of school by the

person with whom the student is leaving. Early release notes should be brought to the

school’s main office upon arriving at school. If a student is to be signed out by someone

other than a legal guardian, parents must send a note identifying the person who will sign

out the student. Identification may be asked of anyone signing out a student. No student

will be allowed to leave the school grounds with anyone other than a parent/guardian

unless written permission signed by the parent is presented to office personnel. Office

personnel have the right to request identification from anyone checking out a student.

Permission must be in writing and will not be accepted verbally over the phone.

Parents are requested not to check students out the last 15 minutes of the school day. This

is a very busy time of the day and it is often difficult to locate students in this short amount

of time.

STUDENT TRANSPORTATION

Students who will be riding a bus that is not their regular bus or will be getting off at a stop other

than their regular stop must bring a written note. The note must state the name of the

accompanying student or the established bus stop, date(s) covered, and is signed by the

parent/guardian. Students should bring their written notes to the office each morning before

homeroom.

When bus routes are impacted by inclement weather or other emergencies, transportation

arrangements of affected students to school or home will be determined by the Director of

Transportation Supervisor or his/her designee. All students to be transported will be done so by

an Alleghany County School Board employee with a valid driver’s license.

ADDRESS/PHONE NUMBER CHANGES

Any changes in a student’s residence, mailing address, or parent contact numbers after enrolling

in the school division must be reported promptly to the school so records can be corrected and

kept current.

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HALL BEHAVIOR/CHANGING CLASSES

Students are to walk in the building on the right side of the hall at all times. They must avoid

disrupting any class that is in session by looking in, signaling a friend, yelling, or making any

disruptive noises. As students change classes, they need to do so quickly and quietly. Class

changes will be controlled with a bell. Students should not leave their hall during the changing of

classes unless it is noted in their schedule. Students should go to lockers only at the beginning

of each block. Students should not go to lockers between elective classes except for eighth

grade students that are on a different bell schedule. Students must have a hall pass or

written permission to be in the hallways while classes are in session. Failure to comply with

these guidelines will result in disciplinary action.

Students are not permitted to buy or sell items in the halls, classroom, or any other location

on Clifton Middle School property or on the bus.

TELEPHONE The telephones in the school offices are business phones and not for student use. Special

permission may be granted by the office staff in case of an emergency. Students must have

permission from their classroom teacher to come to the office to use the phone. Students should

not be using the phone to request permission to stay after school. Messages relating to

transportation or emergencies will be given. Written permission should be brought from

home for staying after school, riding home with someone, or riding a different bus. Verbal

permission will not be accepted over the phone. Permission by fax or email is acceptable.

CELL PHONES ARE NOT TO BE USED TO CONTACT PARENTS AT ANYTIME

DURING THE SCHOOL DAY. DOING SO WILL RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY

ACTIONS.

GRADING POLICY

Report cards will be sent home at the end of each six weeks. The school calendar has a listing of

all dates for reports to be sent home. Please sign the report card envelope and return promptly.

Student grades can be viewed at any time by accessing the Parent Portal in Power School. Refer

to School Services. Parents are encouraged to contact the school should questions arise

concerning their children.

Grading Scale

The letter grades A, B, C, D, & F is based on a scale of 0-100. The number requirement for each

grade is as follows:

A- 94-100

B- 85-93

C- 76-84

D- 70-75

F- 0-69

The computer learning lab for 6th

, 7th

and 8th

grade, Library/Guidance/Computer Lab for 6th

grade

and Remediation will be graded on a pass (100) / fail (50) basis.

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HONOR ROLL

Honor roll status is granted to pupils who achieve six weeks grades of all A’s or all A’s and B’s

including all electives and non-core subjects. The honor roll will be published in the Virginian

Review.

HONOR CODE

Clifton Middle School has an honor code, which states the following:

I will not lie, cheat, or steal nor tolerate those who do.

Above all, I vow to be honest with myself.

The purpose of this honor code is to stress honesty in all schoolwork and activities. This code

will be posted in each classroom. The Clifton Middle School Honor Code was written with the

help of a former student, Josh Hurley, who attended Sharon Elementary, the former Clifton

Middle School, Alleghany High School and VMI. As a VMI cadet, Josh aided the CMS SCA in

writing an honor code that CMS students could build a life principle of honesty. Josh was killed

in action in Iraq. This honor code is dedicated to the memory of Josh Hurley.

ACADEMIC HONOR SOCIETY

The Academic Honor Society recognizes students on the eighth grade level that are enrolled in

accelerated classes and maintain an A average in all subjects. Students are recognized during the

sixth six weeks.

CAFETERIA PROCEDURES AND CONDUCT

The cafeteria will prepare a nutritious breakfast and lunch each day. The menus are printed for

the week in the local newspaper. A monthly menu will be distributed to all students which will

also list important dates for parents to be aware of for each month. Students may participate in

the school lunch program or bring a lunch from home.

Food delivered to students during the day from fast food restaurants is not permitted to be eaten

in the cafeteria during lunch.

All food purchases should be made the initial time through the line with the exception of ice

cream. Students should not make repeated trips through the line. Students should not pick up

any items unless they wish to purchase them. Once an item is picked up it must be purchased.

Meals may be pre-paid.

Students are to eat lunch in the cafeteria. No food or drink item should be taken from the

cafeteria. Tables, chairs, and floors are to be left clean. All trash is to be placed in a trash

container.

Applications for free and/or reduced meals are sent home with each student at the beginning of

the school year. When the forms are completed and returned to school, parents will be notified

concerning approval or denial. Forms may be requested at any point during the school year.

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Meals are self serve at Clifton Middle School. Students are allowed to purchase items a la carte.

Prices are posted and are subject to change with approval by the School Board. A price list will

be sent home at the beginning of the school year.

At no time will soda be allowed during lunch.

SCHOOL SERVICES

Pictures

School pictures are offered each year to parents. Information will be sent home prior to pictures

being taken and will be pre-pay. Fall pictures will be taken on September, 21, 2016. Retakes and

Spring/Buddy pictures will be taken at a later date.

Textbooks

The Alleghany County School Division provides textbooks for all students at no cost.

Students and parents are responsible for paying the replacement cost associated with all damaged

or lost textbooks.

Insurance

Student insurance is available to students who wish to participate. Information forms will be sent

to parents at the beginning of the school year. Parents desiring insurance should call the toll free

number 877-444-5014 or enroll online at http://markel.sevencorners.com. It is suggested that

student insurance be taken out if participation in athletics is anticipated. Medical bills are the

responsibility of the parents.

Homework Hotline

Clifton Middle School will have a homework hotline that will be available between the hours of

5:00 PM to 7:00 AM. A listing of teacher numbers is included at the back of this handbook. The

phone number is 863-1727.

Parent Portal

Parents may access student grades and attendance information on the internet at

http:www3.alleghany.k12.va.us. A user name and password are required. Contact the Guidance

Office at 863-1727 for more information. Mid-Six weeks reports will not be sent home. If you

are unable to access grades by the computer, please contact the school.

Activity Bus

Clifton Middle School offers Activity Buses for students involved in after-school activities. The

Activity Buses follow a general route through the county. Students who abuse this special

service may lose their privilege to ride the Activity Bus. Activity Buses run Monday through

Thursday. They depart from Clifton Middle at 6:15 and then go to Alleghany High School.

They depart from AHS at 6:30. Activity bus schedules may be obtained from the office or from

coaches. Students must abide by Alleghany High School rules when changing buses. Students

will be referred to the Clifton Middle School office if rules are broken. Proper behavior is

expected at all times.

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STUDENT ATHLETICS

Clifton Middle School’s athletic program offers competitive opportunities for students to

participate in a variety of sports including football, volleyball, cheerleading, cross country,

basketball, wrestling and track and field. Participation in these sports is open to all CMS

students with the exception of cheerleading and football which are limited to seventh and eighth

graders. Students participating in athletics are required to have completed Virginia High School

League physical certification forms on file as well as signed documentation of concussion

awareness. Participation in competitive sports programs is contingent on successful try outs.

A comprehensive athletic handbook containing all eligibility rules/guidelines and other important

information is available in the office.

STUDENT LOCKERS

Lockers are assigned at the beginning of the school year. Lockers are school property and may

be searched at any time by any school official. Locker combinations are changed each year. It is

imperative that combinations are kept confidential. Lockers should be kept clean and orderly.

Materials should not be posted on lockers. Students will be responsible for contents found in

lockers assigned to them. Lockers should not be shared or switched without office approval.

Report any problems with locks or lockers to homeroom teachers. Students will be responsible

for any damages to locks or lockers that have not been reported. Students are not allowed to

carry backpacks, totes, gym bags etc. to class.

USE OF THE ELEVATOR

The use of the elevator is restricted to use for staff and students with special needs. There should

be adult supervision on the elevator at all times.

USE OF GUM

The use of gum will be at the discretion of each teacher.

STUDENT CONDUCT

Please refer to the Alleghany County Public School Parent-Student Handbook.

Please refer to pages 15 – 19 of this handbook for more specific information

relating to Clifton Middle School.

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LAW ENFORCEMENT/SCHOOL RELATIONS

When it becomes necessary for any law enforcement officer to interrogate a student on

school premises, the principal will be contacted immediately. The principal and his/her

designee shall then make a reasonable effort to contact the parent or guardian and have

the parent or guardian in attendance for the conference. If the parent or guardian cannot

be present for the conference, then the principal or his/her designee shall be present

throughout the interrogation. In emergency situations where the safety of one or more

students is affected, the principal may authorize the investigation in the absence of the

parent.

The principal or his/her designee is required to promptly report to local law enforcement officials

all incidents occurring on school property involving assaults of any kind, possession/use of

tobacco, alcohol, marijuana, or other controlled substances, any threats against school personnel

while on a school bus, on school property, or at school-sponsored activities, or the illegal

carrying of a firearm onto school property.

SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER

Clifton Middle School will have a School Resource Officer (SRO) who represents the Sheriff’s

Department of Alleghany County. The primary purpose of the SRO is to work with the

administration and teachers of CMS to assure that the education of our students is conducted in

an orderly, safe and lawful manner. Duties that will be performed include the following:

Monitoring the halls and grounds of CMS

Presentation of information to classes relative to legal and safety issues

Surveillance of the parking lot and roadways leading to and from CMS

Working with the administration and staff on referrals involving legal issues.

Illegal acts that are committed by any student during the school day are subject to both

disciplinary actions by the administration of CMS and prosecution by the Sheriff’s Department

of Alleghany County.

SECURITY CAMERAS

Video surveillance cameras are installed at Clifton Middle School. This is a passive

surveillance system that will allow administrators the ability to retrieve archived data for security

and/or disciplinary reasons. Real time monitoring of the cameras will not occur except as

determined necessary by the administration. Access to the video data will be limited to

administrators.

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ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ENTERING CMS

An access control system is in operation at Clifton Middle. The main entrance will be locked

each morning when the tardy bell rings and will remain locked until 4:00 each afternoon. An

intercom box and camera have been mounted on the frame to the right of the entrance doors.

Anyone entering the building will follow the instructions to alert the office that they are outside.

The entrance will be unlocked by a remote control to allow authorized visitors access to the

building. This system will provide a more secure environment for our students and staff.

STUDENT DRESS

The administration and faculty of Clifton Middle School feel that our students will want to

take pride in their appearance and dress. A priority of the administration and faculty is to provide

a safe learning environment for all students. The Alleghany County School Board places

importance on the relationship between the student dress, school climate, and student learning.

Clearly violence has become a national issue for all of our schools. Therefore, clothing which

promotes violence, vulgarity or profanity in any form is not permitted in schools. Clothing is

prohibited that distracts learning, that poses safety hazards and that may inflame or defame other

people. Individual feelings and self-esteem should be promoted by all of our rules and

guidelines, including regulations for student dress.

In order to do this, the following dress code will be adhered to from the time students arrive at

the bus stop in the morning until students get off the bus at home in the afternoon. Please read

this carefully. It includes the Alleghany County School Board policy as well as a more specific

Clifton Middle School policy.

This is the School Board’s policy concerning the dress code (SBP-JFCAA). Based on the belief

that school is a place of business where students are learning both academic and social skills, the

school board requires that they dress appropriately.

1. Messages on clothing, jewelry, and personal belongings that relate to drugs, alcohol,

tobacco, sex, vulgarity, or that reflect adversely upon persons because of their race, sex,

color, creed, national origin, or ancestry are not permitted.

2. Appropriate dress is clothing that covers the body sufficiently so as not to attract

excessive attention to oneself. The braless look, see-through apparel, tube tops, halter

tops, and mid-cut shirts/tops (Midriff showing) are not acceptable.

3. Shorts must be of appropriate length. Very short shorts, such as thin nylon athletic-

type shorts with side slits are not acceptable.

4. Underwear must be covered by clothing.

5. For health and safety reasons appropriate footwear and accessories must be worn at all

times. Bare feet are not acceptable.

Decisions regarding the appropriateness of clothing, footwear, and accessories will be made by

the building principal or a designee. Items initially deemed inappropriate will be brought to the

parent’s attention for corrective action. Subsequent violations of the dress code may subject the

student to suspension from school.

In accordance with School Board Policy, the school administration of Clifton Middle School

provides further clarification for student dress and identifies specific restrictions and rules

concerning dress code.

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The following items should NOT be worn to school:

sagging pants and/or shorts (Pants must be pulled up to the waist above the

underwear.)

gloves of any sort once in the building

pants that are below the soles of shoes

tank tops, spaghetti strap shirts or dresses (shoulders must be covered by 3 inches)

No excess cleavage should be revealed. Shirts must pass the “fingertip test” (Thumbs

should be placed at the arm pit and hands extended straight across the chest parallel to

the floor. If the shirt is below the fingers, then it is too short)

pajamas

shorts and skirts/dresses that are shorter than 8” ( Shorts and skirts/dresses must be

no more than 8” inches above the knee. To determine length, measurement will be

from the floor to the top of the hem as a student is in kneeling position on the floor. All

measurements will be taken in the office.) Any tears, rips, holes in clothing may not be

above this measurement. DUCT TAPE WILL NOT BE PROVIDED TO COVER

TEARS/HOLES.

Shirts/blouses that do not cover the midriff, back and sleeves or arm holes cut out (no

belly buttons should be showing) This includes in a standing or sitting position.

body piercing on the face or other visible parts of the body must be covered, except the

ears

picks in the hair

towels around the neck

bandannas may not be worn or hanging from clothing attire

chains hanging from pants pockets (No chains that could be used as weapons are to be

worn, including spiked bracelets. This is all at the discretion of the administration and

the School Resource Officer.)

hats or head coverings of any type may not be worn in the building and must be placed

in lockers during the school day

pocketbooks are to be used as pocketbooks not as book bags. Tote bags are not to be

used as pocketbooks.

fish hooks on hats or other places

ill fitting and inappropriate footwear (Rubber Flip flops, shower shoes, or shoes with

wheels attached, heels higher that 2 inches will not be allowed shoes must be secure on

the foot)

No clothing, medallions, pins, or jewelry with suggestive double meanings, vulgar or

obscene language or which promote drugs, tobacco or alcohol

Light weight coats, pullovers, sweaters, and sweatshirts may be worn as long as they

do not go midway past the pants pocket openings.

No rule or regulation can adequately address changes in style or other inappropriate wearing of

apparel. The administration will utilize its discretion in dealing with circumstances not specifically

addressed by these guidelines.

Students failing to adhere to these rules will be subject to the following discipline procedures.

First offense – Request change of clothing. Warning

Second Offense – Request change of clothing. In School Suspension.

Third Offense – Request change of clothing. Saturday School assigned.

Fourth Offense – Out of School Suspension

18

Parents will be contacted when the clothing worn is too revealing, offensive or endangering the

health and welfare of students. This would occur as soon as the violation was noted and bypass the

above steps.

The administration recognizes the parents’ responsibility to clothe students. The

administration is responsible to ensure a safe and healthy learning environment for students. The

regulation of student dress is a key element of this responsibility. The school administrators

appreciate your support concerning this matter. Anyone that has questions may contact the school.

DEFINITIONS FO BULLYING & CYBERBULLING

Bullying – the intentional, repetitive, and can be physical, verbal, and/or emotional and includes

electronic bullying, known as cyber bullying.

Cyber bullying – a phenomenon that includes,

Electronically sending means, vulgar, or threatening messages or images

Online posting of sensitive, private information about someone

Pretending to be someone else online in order to make that person look bad

Using photo shop tools to create harassing images

Publishing jokes about another person on the Internet

Using the Internet to entice a group to physically harm another person

Can be done using email, IM’s, text messages, blogs, etc.

DISCIPLINE GUIDELINES

The following pages summarize some of the levels of disciplinary action for violations of

school rules, the Code of Student Conduct, School Board policies and school division

regulations, and/or local state, or federal laws. It is very important that the 2016-2017 Parent-

Student Handbook for Alleghany County Public Schools be reviewed. The attached list does not

include all infractions. Other disciplines may be assigned. If you ever have any questions or

need more information, please contact the school

*Skateboards are not allowed on the bus or in school.

19

Infraction Definition 1st Offense 2

nd Offense 3

rd Offense

Bus Misconduct

Violation of ACPS

Bus Rules

1 day ASD and/or

1-10 Days Bus

Suspension. May

result in loss of

privilege to ride

bus.

2 days ASD and/or

1-10 Days Bus

Suspension. May

result in loss of

privilege to ride

bus.

1-10 Days Bus

Suspension. May

result

in loss of privilege

to ride bus.

Bomb Threats or Bomb

Facsimile, Possession,

False Fire Alarm

Bomb threats or

false information

concerning the

placement of

explosives or

destructive

substances.

10 Days OSS,

Recommendation

of Expulsion,

Refer for criminal

charges

10 Days OSS,

Recommendation

of Expulsion,

Refer for criminal

charges

10 Days OSS,

Recommendation

of Expulsion,

Refer for criminal

charges

Cell Phones, Other

Electronic Devices such as

MP3 players, PSP players,

Laser pointers, etc.

Unauthorized

display and/or use

on school property

Warning and

Confiscation - pick

up at the end of

day from the office

by parent/guardian.

Confiscation - Pick

up from the office

by parent/guardian.

1 day ASD

Confiscation - Pick

up from the office

by parent/guardian.

1 day Saturday

School

Cheating

Copying another’s

work or answers,

giving or receiving

unauthorized

information, cheat

sheets, plagiarism

1 Day ISS.

Parent/Guardian

Notification. "0"

on assignment

1 Day Saturday

School.

Parent/Guardian

Notification. "0"

on assignment

3 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

Notification. "0"

on assignment

Disrespect/Defiance to

teacher, administrator, or

other school employee

Offensive,

Discourteous,

Insulting, Rude

Remarks (Including

racial, sexual, and

discriminatory

statements.

1 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification

3 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification

5 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification

Class Disruption,

Minor Misconduct during

class with full discipline

ticket

Failure to follow

classroom rules or

teacher directions;

disrupting

instruction

1 Block ISS.

Parent/Guardian

Notification

1 Day ISS.

Parent/Guardian

Notification

1 Day Saturday

School

Parent/Guardian

Notification

Dress Code Violation

Failure to adhere to

Dress Code Policy

Request change of

clothing

Parent/Guardian

notification

Warning

Documented

Request change of

clothing

Parent/Guardian

notification

ISS

Request change of

clothing.

Parent/Guardian

notification. 1 Day

Saturday School.

Drugs in School Violation of ACPS

Policy JFCF

10 Days OSS,

Recommendation

of Expulsion,

Refer for criminal

charges

10 Days OSS,

Recommendation

of Expulsion,

Refer for criminal

charges

10 Days OSS,

recommendation of

Expulsion, Refer

for criminal

charges

20

Failure to attend an

assigned ASD or

Saturday School

Not reporting to an

assigned ASD or

Saturday School.

Double the

assignment of

ASD or Saturday

School.

1 day OSS

which will count

toward student's

attendance and

reassignment of

ASD or Saturday

School.

2 days OSS

which will count

toward student's

attendance and

reassignment of

ASD or Saturday

School.

Fireworks, stink bombs,

Ghost Peppers etc.

Possession or use

of fireworks,

facsimiles, etc.

3 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification

5 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

10 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

Forgery

Signing notes or

use of forged or

altered documents.

1 Day OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

3 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

5 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

General Misconduct Examples include

but are not limited

to: failure to work

in class, sleeping in

class, spreading

rumors, horseplay,

minor

insubordination

1 Day ISS.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

1 Day ASD.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

1 Day Saturday

School.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

Incorrigible Behavior Continued

violation of the

ACPS Student

Code of Conduct.

Habitual Offender

Refer to

Division

Discipline

Hearing Officer.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

Refer to

Division

Discipline

Hearing Officer.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

Refer to

Division

Discipline

Hearing Officer.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

Insubordination/Defiance

Refusal to carry

out a request by

any staff member.

Failure to report to

administrator upon

referral from

teacher, lying to

staff/administrator.

1 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

3 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

5 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

Lewd Behavior Any behavior

deemed to be

inappropriate or

offensive.

3 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

5 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

10 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

21

Out of Bounds Being in an area

without

permission or an

area that is off-

limits

1 Day OSS.

Parent/Guardian

Notification

1-3 Day OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

3-5 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

Refusal to dress out

and participate in PE

Not changing

from one's street

clothing to gym

clothing and

participation in

class.

1 period ISS .

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

1 period ISS and

1 Day ASD.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

1 period ISS and

1 Day Saturday

School.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

Public Displays of

Affection

Any display of

affection other

than hand-

holding.

Warning.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

1 day ASD.

Parent

Notification.

1 Day Saturday

School.

Parent/Guardian

Notification

.

Profanity and/or

obscenity (Indirect

Use)

Use of

inappropriate

language and/or

material.

1 Day ASD.

Parent/Guardian

Notification

1 Day Saturday

School.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

3-5 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

Profanity and/or

obscenity (Directed

Use)

Use of

inappropriate

language, obscene

gestures, and/or

material directed

toward another

person.

3 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

5 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

10 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

Sexual/Racial

Harassment

Unwanted and/or

unwelcome

behavior as

defined by ACPS

Policy JFHA

As determined by

Compliance

Officer. Reponses

may range from

mediation and/or

counseling to

recommendation

of expulsion with

referral for

criminal charges.

As determined by

Compliance

Officer. Reponses

may range from

mediation and/or

counseling to

recommendation

of expulsion with

referral for

criminal charges.

As determined by

Compliance

Officer. Reponses

may range from

mediation and/or

counseling to

recommendation

of expulsion with

referral for

criminal charges.

Skipping Class Not reporting to

class, leaving

class without

permission, not

returning to class

from lunch etc.

1 Day ASD.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

1 Day Saturday

School.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

2 Days Saturday

School.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

22

Full Discipline

Tickets from

Classroom Teachers

For documented

minor classroom

infractions (Not

having materials,

tardies, etc.)

1 Day ISS

Parent/Guardian

Notification

1Day

Saturday School

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

1-10 Days OSS

Parent/Guardian

Notification

Technology Violation Inappropriate

conduct and

misuse of

computer

technology as

described in

ACPS Policy

IIBEA and

Regulation

IIBEA-R.

1 Day ISS.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

Temporary loss of

privileges.

1 Day Saturday

School.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

Extended loss of

privileges.

1-3 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

Extended loss of

privileges.

Theft Stealing property

belonging to

another person or

school.

1-3 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

3-5 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

5-10 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

notification.

Tobacco The use and/or

possession of

tobacco products

in and on school

property is

prohibited as

described by

ACPS Policy

JFCH.

3 days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

Refer for criminal

charges.

5 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

Refer for criminal

charges.

3-5 Days OSS

10 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

Refer for criminal

charges.

5-10 Days OSS

Vandalism The willful

destruction or

defacement of

school property

Restitution as

necessary

1-3 Days of OSS

Restitution as

necessary

3-5 Days OSS

Restitution as

necessary

5-10 Days OSS

Verbal Confrontation

Verbal

confrontation

without the use of

profanity.

1 Day Saturday

School.

Parent/Guardian

Notification

3-5 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

Notification

5-10 Days OSS.

Parent/Guardian

Notification

Violence: Fighting,

Stalking

Participating in,

instigating, or

aiding in a fight.

3 Days OSS.

Refer for criminal

charges.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

5 Days OSS.

Refer for criminal

charges.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

10 Days OSS.

Recommendation

of Suspension for

the year. Refer

for criminal

charges.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

23

Violence: Fighting,

Failure to cease

upon employee

direction and/or

injury to an

employee.

Participating in,

instigating, or aiding

in a fight. Failure to

cease upon

employee direction

and/or injury to an

employee

10 Days OSS. Refer

to division discipline

hearing officer.

Refer for criminal

charges.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

10 Days OSS.

Refer to division

discipline hearing

officer.

Refer for criminal

charges.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

10 Days OSS. Refer

to division discipline

hearing officer.

Refer for criminal

charges.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

Violence: Physical

Abuse or Attack

Physically assaulting

or abusing any

person on school

grounds or in

conjunction with a

school activity.

10 Days OSS. Refer

to division discipline

hearing officer.

Parent/Guardian

Notification

10 Days OSS.

Refer to division

discipline hearing

officer.

Refer for criminal

charges.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

10 Days OSS. Refer

to division discipline

hearing officer.

Refer for criminal

charges.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

Violence:

Verbal/Electronic

Abuse and/or Threat,

Bullying, Hazing,

Cyber bullying, etc.

Threatening,

insulting, or in any

other manner

verbally abusing

another person.

3-5 Days OSS.

Refer for criminal

charges.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

5-10 Days OSS.

Refer for criminal

charges.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

10 Days OSS.

Recommendation of

Suspension for the

year. Refer for

criminal charges.

Parent/Guardian

Notification.

Violence:

Premeditated

Violent Physical

Attack; Threatening

a school employee

Premeditated

violently attacking

any student or staff

member in a violent

manner

10 Days OSS,

Recommendation of

Expulsion, Refer for

criminal charges

10 Days OSS,

Recommendation of

Expulsion, Refer for

criminal charges

10 Days OSS,

Recommendation of

Expulsion, Refer for

criminal charges

Weapons in School

Violation of ACPS

Policy JFCD

Category A: 10 Days

OSS,

Recommendation of

Expulsion, Refer for

criminal charges

Category B:

Disciplinary action

up to and including a

recommendation for

expulsion and refer

for criminal charges.

Category A: 10 Days

OSS,

Recommendation of

Expulsion, Refer for

criminal charges.

Category B:

Disciplinary action

up to and including a

recommendation for

expulsion and refer

for criminal charges.

Category A: 10 Days

OSS,

Recommendation of

Expulsion, Refer for

criminal charges.

Category B:

Disciplinary action

up to and including a

recommendation for

expulsion and refer

for criminal charges.

Infractions listed are not all inclusive; Disciplinary action for infractions not included will be at the

discretion of the administration. Administration may take other disciplinary actions based on special

circumstances or for other good and just cause.

24

VISITORS All visitors must report to the office and sign in upon arrival at school.

Parents who wish to observe in their child’s classroom should arrange such visits with

the principal. Teachers will be told that the parent would like to observe and will be

given a 24 hour notice. The observation from the parent must not cause an

interruption of the instruction in the class.

Students are not permitted to bring student guests and/or visitors to the school during

the school day.

SCHOOL SPONSORED ACTIVITIES

School sponsored activities are an extension of the school day and all school rules

and regulations apply. Students owing fines, cafeteria charges, etc. may be denied the

privilege of attending after school activities.

STUDENT’S PERSONAL PROPERTY Student’s personal property such as tape players, radios, sports equipment, cameras,

expensive jewelry, cell phones, MP3 players, Ipods, or other electronic devices and large

sums of money should not be brought to school. If these items are necessary for the

instructional program, special permission will be granted by the office. The school is not

responsible for loss or theft of articles of clothing, electronic devices, etc. These items are

the responsibility of the student who assumes the risk.

E Readers (Kindle/Nook) may only be used for reading.

STUDENT SCHOLASTIC RECORDS The content of the scholastic record shall be limited to data needed by the school to

assist the student in his/her personal, social, educational, and vocational placement. The

scholastic records for students are retained in the office. Information maintained within

cumulative records shall include the following:

Name and address of the student

Birth date

Name and address of parent/guardian

Scholastic work completed

Level of achievement (grades)

Attendance

Standardized Achievement Test scores

Results of required standardized group tests and inventories

Health-physical fitness data including the preschool physical exam and certification of immunization

Report of assessment for special programs

Permission to test for special programs

Placement permission for special programs

Record of parent conference to discuss special education placement

Eligibility committee recommendations

Annual review report of placement

Appeals and reports

IEP

Discipline records

The following information is considered directory information:

Student name

Parent/guardian name

Address of student

25

Unless the school is notified in writing fifteen days of objections to any/all of the

directory information may be disclosed to the qualified organizations without prior

consent. A copy of the school board written policy on the management of the scholastic

records is included in the Alleghany County Parent-Student Handbook. The policies are

contained within the Policy Manual for Alleghany Highlands Schools which is housed in

the school library.

FIRE DRILLS/EMERGENCY EVACUATION PROCEDURES

Important points to remember:

1. The signal for an emergency exit from the building is a fire alarm.

2. Students will be assigned to shut all windows, turn off lights, and close the

classroom door.

3. Students will leave the room in single file, to a specific location away from the

building.

4. Students should be quiet so that any directions from the teacher will be heard.

5. Teachers will take their grade book to call roll.

6. Students should be aware of the fire exits from every classroom that they occupy.

7. The signal for the return to the building will be given by the assistant principal.

8. Students should return to the building in the same orderly, quiet manner in which

they left the building.

NOTE: If an emergency drill occurs when you are in the halls, join the nearest line

and exit the building. Inform the nearest adult of your name and what class you

should be in at this time.

FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION

Specially trained teachers will teach the sensitive topics in gender-separated

classes in grades 6-8. Objectives will be sent home by the family life teachers before

the sensitive areas are taught. Parents are welcome to preview the material at any

time. Parents wishing to opt their children out of family life will need to come to the

school to sign an opt-out form.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

AND

MOMENT OF SILENCE

Clifton Middle School will stand for the Pledge of Allegiance and observe this moment

of silence each morning at the conclusion of the pledge during first block.

26

CHARACTER COUNTS

The six pillars of character counts will be modeled and incorporated into the teaching of

our students daily. The six pillars of character counts are trustworthiness, respect,

responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. Students will be recognized for

demonstrating the six pillars of character during the school year.

PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION

We are in need of volunteers who would like to fill the PTO officer positions. Parents are

encouraged to become members of the Clifton Middle School PTO. An organizational

meeting will be scheduled after school has begun.

PARENT ADVISORY

The administration will hold meetings during the school year with parents to discuss

concerns as well as to keep parents informed about Clifton Middle School. These

meetings are open to all parents. Dates of these meetings will be announced.

Meetings times will be announced and will be cancelled when weather conditions are

bad.

VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

Volunteers are a very valuable part of our schools. Clifton Middle School welcomes a

volunteer program. If you have a special skill to share or the time to assist us, we

encourage you to contact our school. An initial background will be required at the

volunteer’s expense must be completed. Contact the School office for more details.

Your time would be greatly appreciated.

WORK PERMITS

Work permits are required for any student under the age of 16 years to work in any

business. To obtain a work permit, the student must get the Intent to Employ and

Parental Permission forms from the office and have them properly filled out and signed

by the parent and potential employer. These two forms and a certified copy of the

student’s birth certificate must be brought to the office secretary as proof of age. The

work permit will then be prepared for the student by the office secretary.