Lady’s Island Middle School

1

STUDENT HANDBOOK

Lady’s Island Middle School

30 Cougar Drive

Beaufort, SC 29907

Telephone: (843) 322-3100

Online at: lims.beaufortschools.net

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ladysislandmiddle

Instagram: @lims_cougars

Twitter: @lims_cougars

Principal: Gregory Hall

Assistant Principal: Lori Davis

Assistant Principal: Ally Keown

2

Lady's Island Middle School

Mission Statements

We empower students with education and life skills necessary to become productive citizens of the

world.

The Arts Education mission of LIMS is to provide challenging academic and artistically enriched

environment which allows students to explore, discover, express, create, and succeed.

The mission of the Beaufort County School District is to ensure excellence in education for every learner

that prepares each with the knowledge, skills and personal responsibility to succeed in a rapidly changing

global society.

SCHOOL MASCOT: Cougar

SCHOOL COLORS: Garnet, Royal Blue, and White

SCHOOL ADDRESS: 30 Cougar Drive

Beaufort, SC 29907

DISTRICT INTERIM SUPERINTENDENT: Dr. Frank Rodriguez

BOARD REPRESENTIVES Christina Gwozdz (Chairperson)

William, District 3

David Striebinger, District 2

SCHOOL COUNSELORS: Mrs. Lori Howell

7th and 8th (K-Z) grade counselor

Mrs. Shaquanda Kinloch

6th and 8th(A-J) grade counselor

NURSE: Ms. Karen Williams

MEDIA SPECIALIST: Mrs. Karen Dailey

CAFETERIA MANAGER: Ms. Patricia Jones

TELEPHONE NUMBERS: Main Office: 843-322-3100

Fax Number: 843-322-3179

Nurse: 843-322-3136

Guidance: 843-322-3140

Cafeteria: 843-322-3147

Media Center: 843-322-3176

District Office: 843-322-2300

Transportation: 843-838-6896

3

Lady’s Island Middle School 2019-2020 Daily Bell Schedule

6th Grade 7th Grade

8:15-8:35 Breakfast/RTI 8:15-8:40 Breakfast/RTI

8:35-8:42 Cougar Track News 8:35-8:42 Cougar Track News

8:42-8:45 Transition to 1st Period 8:42-8:45 Transition to 1st Period

8:45-9:42 1st Period (Academic Arts) 8:45-9:42 1st Period

9:42-9:45 Transition 9:42-9:45 Transition

9:45-10:42 2nd Period 9:45-10:42 2nd Period


10:45-11:42 3rd Period 10:45-11:42 3rd Period (Academic Arts)


11:45-12:42 4th Period (Academic Arts) 11:45-12:15 4th Period Reading


12:45-1:10 Lunch 12:17-12:42 Lunch


1:12-1:42 5th Period Reading 12:45-1:42 5th Period


1:45-2:42 6th Period 1:45-2:42 6th Period


2:45-3:42 7th Period 2:45-3:42 7th Period (Academic Arts)

3:42-3:45 Announcements/Dismissal 3:42-3:45 Announcements/Dismissal

8th Grade Lunch

8:15-8:35 Breakfast/RTI

8:35-8:42 Cougar Track News

8:42-8:45 Transition to 1st Period

8:45-9:42 1st Period

9:42-9:45 Transition

9:45-10:42 2nd Period (Academic Arts)


10:45-11:42 3rd Period


11:45-12:10 Lunch


12:12-12:42 4th Period Reading


12:45-1:42 5th Period


1:45-2:42 6th Period (Academic Arts)


2:45-3:42 7th Period

3:42-3:45 Announcements/Dismissal

11:45-12:10 8th Grade

12:17-12:42 7th Grade

12:45-1:10 6th Grade

6

We Believe...

All students can learn and their learning is the priority of the school.

Every child is unique and should be academically, socially, physically, and emotionally motivated to reach his/her full

potential.

Teachers, administrators, parents, students, and all community members share in the responsibility of providing a secure,

supportive learning environment.

Students possess different learning styles and should be provided with a variety of instructional approaches.

Students’ learning needs are the school’s primary focus, with exceptional students requiring special services and

resources.

Continuous improvement is imperative if our school is going to enable students to become confident, self-directed,

lifelong learners.

Non-Discrimination Statement

Lady’s Island Middle School provides equal training opportunities for all students regardless of sex, handicapping conditions,

race, age, social status, religion, national origin, economic level, or any other areas of discrimination.

Academic Information

Lady’s Island Middle School 2019-2020 Grading Practices

Rationale and Expectations

Our goal is to ensure that grading and reporting practices are based on clearly defined criteria that represent the attainment of

content knowledge and skills and that are consistent across grade levels and courses. We want student grades to be accurate,

meaningful, consistent and supportive of learning.

Assignment of student grades is the purview of the teacher. Grades cannot be changed without following BCSD established

procedures which include explicit consent of the teacher. Teachers develop research-based grading and assessment practices to

guide the recording and reporting of student progress under the supervision of the Principal. The BCSD follows the South

Carolina guidelines for grading/assessment. As such, no school leader or teacher will engage in grading practices that violate

state policy.

Students respond more positively to the opportunity for success than to the threat of failure. Therefore, through learner objectives

and its instructional program, the BCSD seeks to make the evaluation of student performance both recognizable and positive.

A balance of formative/summative assessments will be recorded in PowerSchool gradebook which reflects student mastery.

Titles of each assignment should reflect the standard or topic taught. The gradebook should be updated at least weekly with a

minimum of 2 grades, and modified as needed to reflect mastery.

Per board policy, if a student’s grade falls below a 70 the parent must be notified. The teacher will maintain a contact record.

Unexpected or sustained failing performance should be addressed through initiating the RTI process and parent contact.

South Carolina Uniform Grading Policy (“UGP”).

A. Each BCSD school will follow the UGP. This UGP and the system for calculating GPAs and class rank will apply to all

courses carrying Carnegie units, including units earned at the middle/junior high school level. All report cards and transcripts will

use numerical grades for courses carrying Carnegie units.

B. The grading scale for Grades Three (3) through Twelve (12) shall be as follows:

1. A = 90-100; Excellent

2. B = 80-89; Above Average

3. C = 70-79; Average

4. D = 60-69; Passing, Needs Improvement

5. F = 59 and below; Unsatisfactory

6. FA = 50; Failing, Excessive Absences

7. WP = Withdrew Passing

8. WF = 50; Withdrew Failing

9. NC = No Credit

C. All report cards and transcripts will use numerical grades for courses carrying Carnegie units.

7

Final Grade Calculation.

Semester grades shall be determined by a weighted percentage of the two (2) nine (9) week grades in the semester. Each of the

two (2) nine (9) week grades will equal fifty percent (50%) of the semester grade. Any semester or yearly final exams (non-state)

will be calculated into the concurrent grading period. A yearly or final grade is determined by averaging the two (2) semester

grades unless a state end-of-course test is given, in which case that test shall be twenty percent (20%) of the final grade and the

two (2) semester grades shall account for a total of eighty percent (80%) of the final grade.

A. Unless otherwise waived by the Superintendent or his/her designee, calculation of quarter grades shall be determined by a

weighted percentage of the two (2) grading categories of Formative and Summative assessments. Formative assessments shall

comprise forty percent (40%) of each quarter grade, and Summative assessments shall comprise sixty percent (60%) of each

quarter grade.

B. Final Grade Year Long Class:

1. 50% Semester 1; and

2. 50% Semester 2.

C. Final Grade Year Long Class with State EOC:

1. 40% Semester 1;

2. 40% Semester 2; and

3. 20% State EOC Exam.

(See BCSD Administrative Regulation IS-44, Tests and Examinations, for further information on exams and testing.)

D. High School Credit/Carnegie Credit. To receive one Carnegie unit of credit for high school credit classes, a student must be in

attendance at least 120 hours, per unit, regardless the number of days missed. Students who have excessive absences are to meet

with the course teacher, counselor, and administrator to discuss any options that may be possible to satisfy the 120-hour

requirement.

Formative and Summative Assessments

Formative assessments are used to monitor student learning and to provide a benchmark of student progress toward learning

targets and goals. It provides ongoing feedback to both the student and the teacher, which can in turn be used to improve

instruction and learner outcomes. Formative assessments help identify areas of strength as well as areas of refinement for

students which allow for timely intervention. Not every formative assessment is graded. Summative assessments aim to evaluate

student learning and mastery at the end of a unit of study. They are often high stakes and thus count more significantly in the

calculation of a student’s grade.

Standards Based Assessments/Ongoing Evidence (Formative) 40% Criteria

daily class work

homework

exit slips

specific checklist for content area

journaling/interactive notebooks (note taking)

word study activities

vocabulary activities

quizzes

Minimum of 1

per week.

Cumulative (Summative) 60%

Unit/Chapter tests

Projects completed during school that include rubrics

Performance assessments with rubrics

Minimum of 5

per quarter.

8

Accessing Student Grades

All student grades are posted in PowerSchool. Official reporting periods are determined for each school year and listed on the

school calendar. Students and parents/guardians can access student grades via the PowerSchool Portal at any time, 24 hours a

day, 7 days a week. All assignments will be indicated by the grade or a marker indicating the assignment is missing. Visit our

webpage, then Parents, then Parent Portal for more information.

Grade Changes

Grades cannot be changed without following district-established procedures which include explicit consent of the teacher.

The district follows the statewide guidelines for grading/assessment.

Grade Floor

Student grades are recorded as earned. LIMS does not include a grade floor in the grading policy. Students who are

scoring below 70 consistently on assignments, tests, and quizzes will be referred for possible support or intervention

through the RTI process.

Late Work/Make-Up Work

Students are expected to complete assignments by their due date. Support and intervention may be offered if a student

consistently struggles with the completion of assignments. The board or its designee may extend the time for completion of

the requirements due to extenuating circumstances as prescribed by state board of education guidelines.

For excused (Lawful) absences, students will be granted the opportunity to make-up any missed assignments and /or work

due to the absence(s). This will include quizzes, test, writing assignments etc. The period for making up the work will be a

minimum of one (1) class day for each class day missed to a maximum of one week. For example, if a student misses two

days of school (Mon, Tues) and returns on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday will be granted as make-up days for missing

Monday and Tuesday (one day for each day missed). In this example, all missed assignments or work (test, quiz etc.) would

not be due until Monday. Students who have unexcused absences may be given the opportunity to make up work at the

discretion of the principal and teacher during make-up sessions, tutoring, or enrichment time, however, the unexcused

absence remains in the student’s record.

The District will consider students unlawfully absent under the following circumstances:

They are willfully absent from school without the knowledge of their parent/legal guardian.

They are absent without acceptable cause with the knowledge of their parent/legal guardian.

A “0” will be entered into the gradebook for any work not submitted on the due date with a “Missing Work” marker to alert

parents the assignment was not turned in. Grades will be posted for formative assessments within 2 days of the due date.

Students must follow the criteria for submission of make-up or missing work within the specified timelines to receive credit.

Retesting

Students needing to achieve content mastery may retest at teacher discretion following a student-teacher conference and reteach

of identified skill weaknesses.

Failure/Remediation

A student in grades 6-8 fails a particular subject for the school year if the student’s final average in that subject is below 60%.

Retention (repeating the grade level) will be considered when a student earns a failing grade in English, math, science or social

studies (1-2 failures will normally mean summer school but 3 or more failures will result in retention). In addition, students may

be retained if they do not meet attendance requirements of Beaufort County School District. Parents are encouraged to check

Parent Portal for up to date student coursework and monitor progress. Teachers are expected to contact parents when the student

drops below a C/70 and send interim reports and report cards at the scheduled time.

9

Progress Reports and Report Cards

Progress reports are sent home to parents/guardians of all students at the midpoint of each quarter. Report cards are sent home at

the end of each quarter. The purpose of these reports is to communicate student progress in all classes. Distribution dates are

indicated on the district calendar. Teachers are expected to contact parents when a student’s grade drops below a C/70.

Online Access to Grades/Attendance:

Students and parents/guardians can access student grades via the PowerSchool Portal at any time 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Lady’s Island Middle School maintains the expectation that grades will be entered into PowerSchool within 2 days of due date of

the graded assignment (formative) or 4 days for larger projects (summative). Visit our webpage, then Parents, then Parent Portal

for more information.

Homework

Homework is viewed as an extension of classroom activity. Homework will be in harmony with the child's needs and

abilities and will not be given for disciplinary reasons. Teachers should recognize that home and outside activities have

educational value and therefore should not overburden students with homework. Assignments must be carefully planned,

appropriate to the student's grade level and be well understood by the student before he/she leaves school. Allowances

should be made for individual differences in interests and abilities. Although all homework assignments need not be

formally graded, teachers are expected to evaluate the student's homework performance to assess the student's needs and/or

level of mastery.

Honor Rolls

Principal’s Honor Roll:

A student will be named to the Principal’s Honor Roll if he/she has no grade less than A in all subjects/classes for that grading

period.

Honor Roll:

A student will be named to the Honor Roll if he/she has no grade below a B in all subjects/classes for that grading period.

Entrance into Advanced Level Courses

Students wishing to take Accelerated or Advanced Math, Algebra I, Geometry, English I, Advanced ELA, Advanced Science,

Earth Science and Advanced Social Studies must meet specific district criteria. Parents and students may waiver into these courses

but must maintain an 85 or better average to remain in the courses. If a student is not maintaining academic status above an 85, the

principal reserves the right to remove the student from the advanced/accelerated/high school credit course.

High School Credit Courses

High school credit is offered for a limited amount of courses: Algebra I, Geometry, Earth Science, English I, and Spanish I. Students

must meet specific criteria in order to enroll in these courses.

Retaking High School Credit Classes

Students taking courses for a Carnegie unit prior to their 9th grade year may retake any such course during their 9th grade year. In

this case, only the 9th grade retake grade will be used in figuring the student’s GPA and only the 9th grade attempt will show on the

transcript. This rule will apply whether the grade earned is higher or lower than the pre-ninth grade attempt.

STEAM Education

STEAM Education aims to bring functional literacy to all. It promotes bridging the gap between business and educational goals to

create a more productive and sustainable global culture based on teamwork. This educational framework is for all disciplines and

types of learners with the goal of being more engaging and naturally successful for all members of any educational system. The

content specialty areas integrate Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics to provide and promote a rich

educational curriculum and learning experience. LIMS will employ in all content areas project and problem-based learning to

deepen and enrich student learning.

10

Arrival

Students should not report to school before 8:15 a.m. Breakfast is served from 8:15 to 8:35. First period instruction begins at 8:45

a.m. All car riders should be dropped in the front car rider loop only. Early Care is provided from 7:30-8:15 for a fee of $5.00 per

week.

Athletics

Since our athletes represent our school, we feel that they should set a standard of excellence that can be emulated by their peers.

The athletic department and Lady’s Island Middle School expects these students to excel in the classroom, as well as in sports.

Students are expected to exemplify good community citizenship. The athlete’s weekly progress report as well as discipline referrals

resulting in In School Suspension (ISS) or Out of School suspension (OSS) will affect eligibility status for all sports. The athletic

director will conduct weekly evaluations. Students who owe fees will not be allowed to participate in athletics.

Eligibility Requirements

Lady’s Island Middle School will follow the High School League Rules for athletic eligibility. Per the new regulation, all students

participating in sports will be required to maintain a 2.0 GPA. Being assigned to ISS or OSS will affect a student’s eligibility status

for any sport. In addition, the students must complete the requirements listed below:

1. Birth Certificate - All athletes are required to have a legal birth certificate. The original will be photocopied and sent home

with the child the same day.

2. Insurance - Parents or guardians will need to fill out an insurance form for their child.

3. Parent Permission - A parent or guardian must sign a permission form in order for a student to participate.

4. Physical - All athletes must have a physical before practice begins. Physicals are good from April 1, 2019 until the end of the

2019-2020 school year.

The school will provide all forms, excluding birth certificate.

Notification

Students are ineligible if their 15th birthday falls before July 1st. A student who has failed the 7th or 8th grade may become eligible

during the second semester if he/she has satisfactorily passed the first semester work.

Only 7th & 8th grade students enrolled at Lady’s Island Middle School are eligible to participate. This is a High School League

rule that all middle schools in our state follow. Students may try out for a varsity or a junior varsity sport at Beaufort High School.

Our school and district offer a wide variety of sports for all students at Lady’s Island Middle School. Our coaches have the

experience, knowledge and understanding to help children grow not only physically, but also emotionally and socially through

responsibility, sportsmanship and citizenship.

Attendance We want students to be in school every day. Regular attendance at school is an extremely important factor contributing to success

in school. State law mandates that parents send their children to school regularly. It is important that students attend school every

day and arrive on time. Absences due to medical reasons should be documented with a doctor’s excuse and turned in to the school

upon return. Please limit absences to a minimum.

Excused Absences If a student must be absent from school, the parent should send a signed note (include date & reason for absence) on the day the

student returns to school. Any student who fails to bring a valid excuse to school (within 3 days) will automatically receive an

unexcused absence.

If possible, we ask the parent to get the missing work so that the student will not fall too far behind. It is very important to remember

that teachers need time to prepare the work that will be missed.

Acceptable excuses are as follows:

illness or injury

medical, dental, or other such appointments

death in the family

recognized religious holidays

family emergency

Extended Absences If a student will be absent for an extended period due to illness, parents should notify the Guidance Counselor or homeroom teacher.

During a prolonged illness, a homebound teacher may be assigned after a parent or guardian presents a doctor’s letter.

11

Unexcused Absences & Truancy Students who fail to provide a valid excuse for an absence within 3 days will receive an unexcused absence. Students must attend

school a minimum of 170 days of the total 180-day school year, excluding excused absences, to be eligible to receive credit.

Early Checkout Parents are urged to make medical and other appointments after school hours. If a student must check out during the day, parents

should report to the office to sign out the student, with proper identification. Students must have parent or guardian permission

before early check out will be permitted. No student will be allowed to check himself out, walk home, or leave the school campus

with a friend or relative without confirmed parental permission. A parent or guardian must be in the office to sign a student out; we

will not sign a student out over the phone. Students may not be signed out after 3:10 pm.

Tardiness In order to prevent interruption of instruction, students must be in class on time. Students should be in class no later than 8:45 am.

Students who are repeatedly tardy to school will be dealt with according to the student discipline code and reported to the school

social worker. Multiple tardies may be addressed with consequences according to the student code of conduct.

High School Course Attendance Requirements A student taking a high school class must attend each class a minimum number of days before he/she can receive consideration for

credit. The course length is 180 days. The minimum attendance requirement is 170 days for one course credit. These requirements

pertain to students taking Algebra I, English I, Spanish I, Earth Science, or Geometry.

Bicycle Regulations

Students who ride bicycles to school must conform to school regulations. Parking will be in the designated area only (bicycle

racks). Bicycles may not be visited during school hours. Bicycles should be locked at all times to prevent theft. The school is not

responsible for damage incurred to bicycles while on school property. Students should depart campus immediately after school.

Closed Campus

Lady’s Island Middle School maintains a closed campus policy. Students are to remain on campus from the time they arrive at

school until they are properly dismissed. A student may check out from the office under the following conditions:

A parent or guardian must come in person to the office to check out the student.

If an emergency situation occurs, dismissal must be approved by the administration.

A change in transportation requires the presentation of a note from parent or guardian. The student’s name and means of

transportation home must be stated in the note. Also, a phone number must be listed where a parent or guardian can be reached

to verify the change. These notices should be delivered to the front office upon arrival at school in the morning.

If students are not to be released to specific parties (e.g. a non-custodial parent), please notify the office and guidance

counselor in writing.

Communications: (Public Relations/Communication)

If there is a problem, students, parents, and all staff members have the right to approach the District Board of Education to seek a

solution to a problem or a concern. The proper and requested method of resolving problems is to begin with the party directly

involved. If the problem remains unresolved, persons with the complaint should proceed to the next level in the proper manner. If

after a meeting with an assistant principal, the principal, and the superintendent (or designee), in that order, the problem is still

unresolved; those persons with a concern should contact the superintendent in writing to request a meeting with the school board.

Computer Use

All Beaufort County School District students who use the computer agree to the county’s “Acceptable Use Policy” (AUP) as

outlined in the Beaufort County School District Code of Conduct. Students who violate this AUP will receive the consequences

according to the BCSD Student Code of Conduct which may include revocation of computer access for a designated period of time

and/or ISS or OSS. Parents will be contacted after each offense.

This year, student tablets will be allowed to go home if students have paid the $20 technology fee, have the AUP form signed, and

have the Connect2learn form signed. If repeated damage, intentional damage, or loss of tablets occur, the cost of repair or

replacement may be assessed to the student/parent.

Cell Phone Use

Under a federal consumer protection law, schools need parent/guardian permission to receive automated or prerecorded calls to a

cell number. At the beginning of the year, you provided contact information, including the number to which these automated calls

should be directed, that the District will use to keep you informed. Should you choose to revoke consent to receive automated

calls/texts on your cell phone, you may do so by notifying the District of your revocation. Please contact Ms. Floyd at (843)322-

12

3100 for that purpose. If you revoke consent for automated and prerecorded calls to your cell number, you may not receive time-

sensitive information.

The District requires that you provide notice of any changes in contact information (physical address and telephone numbers) to

the District within 10 days. This includes any change in the cell number you provided to the District. Correct contact information

is needed so that the District may provide you with information regarding school operations and any specific concerns related to

your student. Should you fail to provide the District updated contact information, including notification that a cell phone number

you have given the District has been disconnected or reassigned, please be aware that the District disclaims liability for any alleged

damages resulting from your failure to do so.

Cell phones may not be used during the school day unless special permission is given by the principal or designee related to a

classroom task or PBIS reward. Cell phones may not be in a student’s possession between the hours of 8:15 am and 3:45 pm.

Phones should remain off and in a locker during the instructional day Phones should remain off and in a book bag during arrival

and dismissal. Violations of cell phone policy may result in the student phone being confiscated by a staff member. Phones will

be returned to the parent on the 1st offense, returned at the end of the semester for the 2nd offense, and returned at the end of the

year for a 3rd offense. If a parent chooses to sign the phone out after a 2nd offense or more, the student may be assigned an alternative

consequence which includes suspension from school

As a privilege, the principal may designate technology free spaces and times. These special privileges will only allow for use

during specific times and locations under specified conditions. These privileges may be taken away at any time as determined by

the principal.

Conferences

Parents are encouraged to schedule conferences with their child’s teachers whenever they deem it necessary. To schedule a

conference, parents should make a request through the teacher or school counselor. It is also helpful to state the reason for the

conference request and/or the concern(s) to be addressed so that the conference can be productive.

Parents can expect an interim report or report card every four and half weeks. Interim reports and report cards will be mailed on

the following dates:

Interim Reports Report Cards

September 13, 2019 October 18, 2019

November 15, 2019 January 10, 2020

February 7, 2020 March 20, 2020

April 24, 2020 June 2, 2020

Confiscated Items

The school will not be responsible for returning items that are not permitted inside the building, such as hats, electronic games, cell

phones, and audio/video devices that are taken from students who bring them in the building. Also the school will not be responsible

for recovering items that are stolen. Students are not permitted to bring I-Pods, MP3 players, PDA’s, or other handheld devices

Phones should remain off and in a locker during the instructional day. Confiscated items will be returned to the parent on the

first offense, kept for the remainder of the semester on the second offense, and the remainder of the school year on the third offense

in lieu of discipline referrals.

Violation of any rules established by the school district or school will be addressed by administration. Consequences are at the

discretion of the administration according to the Student Code of Conduct.

Departure

Students who ride bicycles or walk to school should leave the campus grounds directly after dismissal. Car riders should be picked

up in the front car rider loop only, no later than 4:15 pm. After Care is available for students needing late pick up until 5:30 pm.

for a fee of $5.00 per day. All students on campus after 4:15 will be placed in After Care.

Discipline

Student misconduct will be addressed according to the Student Code of Conduct. The Student Code of Conduct on the LIMS and

Beaufort County School District websites.

Lady's Island Middle School has a school-wide behavior support plan, the Connections Continuum, which incorporate elements of

Positive Behavior Intervention Supports (PBIS). We will regularly support and develop appropriate behaviors that align with our

expectations and our success identity. There will be a variety of opportunities for rewards and recognitions for those who exemplify

outstanding behaviors. Our school wide Connections Continuum and This is Us agreement summarizes the behavior expectations

of our learning community.

13

Teachers and students in individual classes will develop classroom procedures. Classroom and school-wide procedures, rules,

consequences will be posted, explained, and discussed regularly with students. Parents are encouraged to discuss these expectations

and responsibilities with their children on a regular basis. Teachers may implement classroom-based consequences including but

not limited to warning, parent call, reflections, lunch detention, after school detention, referral to school counselor, referral to

Behavior Management Specialist, and restriction from school activities. Consequences will follow The Connections Continuum.

When necessary, the administrative team will handle discipline. The administration will follow the Beaufort County School District

Student Code of Conduct in all cases and assign consequences according to the Student Code of Conduct, to include parent

contact/conference, after school detention, Saturday detention, work detail/cleanup, ISS, OSS, or in some cases, recommendation

for expulsion. Serious behaviors which may be a violation of law may also receive additional consequences as appropriate through

law enforcement.

Bullying

Bullying behaviors will not be tolerated. All students, staff, and parents have the responsibility to report bullying behaviors to

administration promptly. Students, staff, and parents are encouraged to utilize the district See Something Say Something app to

report concerns of bullying.

Bullying is defined as behaviors that 1) cause physical, social, and/or emotional harm, 2) is repeated or one significant behavior,

and 3) is an unfair match.

Weapons on School Property

Weapons or items that may be used as weapons are not permitted on school property at any time. Students found in violation of

the weapons policy according to the Student Code of Conduct will be suspended from school according to the consequences in

the Student Code of Conduct which may include a recommendation for expulsion and charges with the Beaufort City Police

Department.

Dress Code

Students at Lady’s Island Middle School follow the Beaufort County School District dress code. All students should wear khaki,

black, or blue pants, shorts, or skirts. Students may not wear jeggings, leggings, or athletic pants. LIMS students may wear any

solid color collared shirt, sweatshirts, sweaters. LIMS Spirit t-shirts, sweatshirts (non-hoodies), and long sleeve t-shirts may be

worn. These are the only allowable logo shirts that may be worn. Hoodies and jackets will not be allowed to be worn. Other than

LIMS designs and logos shirts may not have print, logos or designs on them. Logos on the chest approximately the size of a quarter

are acceptable. Shirts may be untucked but no longer than hip pocket length. All clothing must fit appropriately (baggy, tight,

revealing, sagging, etc will be addressed by administration). Flip flops, sandals, slides, crocs, bedroom slippers and other similar

shoes are not permitted to be worn at any time. Headwear such as bandannas and oversize jewelry are not permitted to be worn.

There will be approved “Jean Days” and “Dress Down Days” for various events where students who participate will be allowed to

wear jeans or dress down. Clothing on these days must adhere to the dress code expectations for fit and be plain in design without

holes, cuts, tears, excessive beading, studding, large logos, and writing. Any student wearing inappropriate clothing will be referred

to the Social Worker and may be required to contact home for appropriate clothes. Dress code violations that cannot be corrected

immediately may result in the student being held in an alternate education setting such as ISS until the dress code can be corrected.

Field Trip/Special Activities

Field trips and other special activities are considered an extension of the regular education program.

Students are to conduct themselves as though they are in the classroom and under the established Connections Continuum

and the Student Code of Conduct.

School rules apply to all school related functions. Violations may receive consequences according to the Student Code

of Conduct.

Students who owe fees are not allowed to participate in field trips.

Students who habitually disregard behavior expectations while at school may not be allowed to go on field trips.

The school principal or designee may restrict or prohibit participation or admission to school events due to violations of

school rules.

Emergency School Closure

Schools and district offices will be closed only in the case of severe weather or other emergency situations. If schools and district

offices are closed or schools are starting late, or if schools are to be dismissed early, the radio and television stations will be notified.

Notification does not guarantee that the stations will broadcast the information. Please listen to two or more stations if you have

any questions. Information regarding school closure will also be posted on the school website. When schools are closed, all

activities for students are canceled.

14

Fees

Fees will be charged for any lost or stolen textbooks, laptops, calculators, library materials, athletic equipment/uniforms, or other

school materials. Students who destroy or vandalize school property will be required to pay for losses or damages. Students who

play sports will be required to pay for a physical and insurance.

Students who owe fees are not allowed to participate in extracurricular activities, will not receive a locker at the beginning of the

year, and will not be able to check out books. 8th grade students will not participate in the 8th grade social or other end of the year

activities if there are any outstanding fees.

Emergency Drills

Fire drills will be held in accordance with state and local regulations. Students can expect at least one fire drill each month. Tornado

drills and other emergency drills are held throughout the school year. Additionally, we will conduct multiple safety drills including

active shooter and lockdown drills to maintain awareness of appropriate procedures in the event of emergency.

Failure to adhere to directions or procedures during emergency drills or actual emergencies may pose a serious danger to the student

and others. Therefore, such behavior may result in school based consequences.

Food Service

Breakfast is served each morning in the school cafeteria between 8:15 and 8:35. If a student desires to eat breakfast he/she must

report directly to the cafeteria upon arrival. Breakfast will not be served after 8:35. Only students who arrive on a late bus will

be allowed to eat breakfast after 8:35. It is highly recommended that students eat a complete breakfast at school or at home before

each school day.

A wide variety of hot lunches are served every day at Lady’s Island Middle School. The choices include hot entrees, pizza and

salads. Milk is included in the regular cost.

Students are only allowed to charge up to $10.00 in unpaid lunch fees. Until account is paid in full, students will be provided an

alternate snack/meal.

Parents may opt to place money in an online account for students. This account is connected to the student’s lunch number. The

account alleviates the need for cash. Please visit www.paypams.com for more information.

Lunch Forms

Lunch forms for free or reduced meals are available online, from homeroom teachers, the front office, the guidance department, or

the cafeteria.

Lunch Numbers Every student at Lady’s Island Middle School is given a lunch number. The lunch number must be given at the time of any purchase.

The lunch number is to be used only by the student whose name appears with the number. Students are not to share their lunch

numbers with others. Any misuse of lunch numbers will be dealt with promptly.

Special Dietary Needs The cafeteria staff will gladly attempt to meet any special dietary needs of students. Parents with children having special dietary

needs should contact the cafeteria manager as soon as possible.

Guidance Department

The school counseling department at Lady’s Island Middle School implements a comprehensive and developmental program for

all students. We offer individual and small group counseling, as well as provide classroom guidance lessons on a variety of topics

such as bullying, anger management, and study skills. Our aim is to assist students in the areas of social/emotional growth,

academic growth, and career development. We are also available as a resource to parents and teachers. We work in the best interest

of our students and hope to make their years as middle school students successful.

Withdrawal from School

Students who are going to withdraw from school should notify their school counselor as soon as possible. Parents or guardians are

required to sign release forms to ensure that all records can be properly forwarded. It is necessary for all students who are

withdrawing to finalize accounts with the library, lunchroom, and homeroom teacher. All library books, laptops, and textbooks

must be returned or paid for at the time of withdrawal.

15

Health Services

Accidents

Students need to report accidents immediately that occur during the school day. In case of accidents and resulting emergency

situations, actions may be taken at the discretion of school personnel that are considered necessary for the well- being of the student.

In the event of a student accident, Lady’s Island Middle School reserves the right to call the local Emergency Medical Service

(EMS) for assistance or to transport students to the doctor or hospital. It is extremely important that parents maintain accurate

contact information with the school to communicate in case of emergencies.

Ambulance Expense

Expenses incurred by emergency use of an ambulance will be the responsibility of the parents or guardians of those students

involved. The parents or guardians of the injured student will be notified before an ambulance is called unless the injury requires

immediate emergency transportation of the injured student or unless the parent is unreachable.

Health Information

Parents of students with chronic illnesses or conditions that may affect their child while at school should make sure that the nurse,

school counselor, teachers, physical education teacher, and attendance supervisor are aware of such conditions. All medical

conditions must be notated on the student’s emergency card. Parents are required to leave an emergency number with the

main office where someone can be reached when necessary.

Health and Safety

Our school system recognizes that good physical health goes hand-in-hand with good academic performance. Health problems may

prevent a child from achieving to his/her fullest potential. Unfortunately, many such difficulties go undetected for years. During

the school year, trained personnel may administer screening tests for vision, hearing, speech, dental, and blood pressure problems,

as well as scoliosis and contagious diseases (such as head lice, measles, chicken pox, impetigo, etc.) to your child. Should such

screening detect a problem, you will be notified for further follow-up.

Illness

Students who get sick during the school day are required to report to the nurse’s office. If it is deemed necessary, the parents will

be contacted by the nurse via telephone to take the student home. Please do not send sick students to school. An exclusion list

of illnesses will be sent home at the beginning of the school year and can be obtained from the school. Please update your address

and phone number as soon as any change is made.

Immunization Certificate South Carolina Law requires all students enrolled in a South Carolina school to have a Certificate of Adequate Immunization.

This form may be secured from the Beaufort County Health Department or at the child’s personal physician’s office. A student

from outside the district may be enrolled temporarily for 30 days. A certificate must be presented by the 30th day or the student

will be suspended from school as required by South Carolina Law.

Medication If it becomes necessary for a student to take any form of medication at school, a signed note from a parent or guardian, along

with the medication in prescription or original pharmacy container, must be presented by the parent or guardian to the

nurse’s office. The note should include the following:

1. Anticipated number of days the medication needs to be given in school

2. Dosage

3. Name of doctor issuing medicine

4. Name of drug

5. Possible side effects

6. Purpose of medication

7. Special instructions for administering medication and its storage

8. Student’s name

9. Time of day medication is to be given

Children are not permitted to bring any types of medication to school. At no time may a student be in the possession of

over-the-counter or prescription medications. Consequences may include In-School Suspension or Out of School

Suspension.

Asbestos Warning Statement

In compliance with federal regulations concerning the health hazards of asbestos and building materials containing asbestos, the

Beaufort County School District has inspected all local public school facilities. Inspections showed that some buildings do contain

asbestos materials, but there is no threat to health or safety at this time.

16

Upon inspection of Lady’s Island Middle School, minimal amounts of asbestos were found. They were located in some of the vinyl

floor tiles used in the school.

As required by law, the district has put into effect a detailed management plan for each school to monitor all materials containing

asbestos. The plan for our school is in the main office and is available for inspection during regular school hours.

The district maintenance and custodial workers are trained to recognize the presence of asbestos materials. Our building will be

inspected periodically to ensure there is no health hazard. Parents will be notified if any other action is necessary.

Lockers/Locks

Homeroom teachers will assign lockers and lock combinations. Student lockers should be kept locked at all times. Each student is

responsible for keeping his/her locker clean both inside and outside. Damage caused by misuse or abuse will be charged to the

student and the student/parent will have to pay for a damaged locker or lock. Lockers, even though assigned to students, remain

school property and may be inspected or searched at any time. No valuables should to be left in the lockers overnight.

Lost and Found

Articles found in and around the school should be turned in to the main office where the owners may claim their property by

identifying it. Students should have their name on all personal items. Unclaimed or unidentifiable items will be discarded or

donated to a local shelter/collection box on a monthly basis.

Media Center

Borrowing Procedures

1. Any library materials that are to be used outside the library must be checked out.

2. Most library materials may be checked out for a two-week time period.

Overdue Books

1. Each student with overdue books will be notified.

2. Library books become overdue on the day after the loan period ends.

3. The student must pay for lost or damaged library books. If damage is apparent at the time books are checked out, the student

should report it.

4. Report cards will be held for those students who have lost or have overdue books. In addition, students with lost or overdue

books will not be able to participate in sports, field trips, or other school activities.

Restrooms

Students are expected to use the restrooms provided in their pod or classroom area. Students will not be permitted to use restrooms

designated for teachers and staff. There should never be more students in a bathroom than there are useable facilities in that room.

Students are not permitted to “hang out” in the bathrooms. Students are expected keep restrooms neat and clean.

School Fees/Payments

The bookkeeper’s office is open for student’s to make payments to their accounts or other fees from 8:30-9:45 am. Students who

are in possession of cash or checks to be paid to the school should deliver the money to the bookkeeper during 1st period. The

bookkeeper will provide a receipt for all money turned in. Students with outstanding fines or fees may be restricted from

participating in any or all school activities.

Returned Checks

There is an additional $30.00 charge for any check that is returned to Lady's Island Middle School.

School Resource Officer

The Beaufort City Police Department will assign a school resource officer to Lady’s Island Middle School. The SRO will assist in

the management, supervision, and safety of students at LIMS. The SRO will also assist in a variety of instruction and interventions

for staff and students.

School Support Organizations

There are many opportunities for parents or guardians to get involved in activities at Lady’s Island Middle School, including Parent-

Teacher Organization (PTO) and School Improvement Council (SIC).

Parents Teachers’ Organization (PTO) Lady’s Island Middle School PTO invites all parents of students to join and become involved in our school. PTO offers

opportunities beyond the classroom for parents, teachers and students to become actively involved in the educational process of

children. Parent’s attendance at PTO meetings is encouraged and appreciated.

17

School Improvement Council (SIC) All Beaufort County Schools operate School Improvement Councils as required by the EIA. Each school sends out when meetings

are to occur. Parents are urged to participate in this and all other school activities.

Special Services

Students may qualify for and receive special education supports after being referred, screened, and staffed by Special Services

Division of Beaufort County School District. Students identified with special needs will be served at LIMS as outlined in their

Individualized Educational Plan, Behavior Intervention Plan, and/or 504 Plan.

Student Drop Off and Pick-Up Locations

All car riders will be dropped off in the front loop only. Car riders should not be in the bus rider areas. When you pick-up or drop-

off your child at Lady's Island Middle School, please do not drive through the bus parking and unloading area. PARENTS

SHOULD NOT PARK AND LEAVE YOUR VEHICLE IN THE DROP-OFF LOOP.

Telephone Use

We ask that students use school phones only for emergencies, such as an illness or accident. Students should use the classroom

phones, POD office phones, or be sent to Guidance with permission only. At no time should a student use a phone unsupervised

and without permission. Students may not use the phone in the front office during the school day. Parents should not call students.

In the event of an emergency, parents may call the school office and a message may be relayed to the student. Per the school cell

phone policy students will not have access to their cell phones during the instructional day.

Textbooks

All basic textbooks are loaned and checked out to students for their use during the school year. Textbooks are to be kept clean and

handled carefully.

Student information is recorded in the book. The school uses a barcode system to accurately record and track textbooks.

Replacement texts will not be issued until lost or damaged books are paid for in full. If a student loses a book, he/she should notify

the teacher as soon as possible. If textbooks are not returned or paid for, the student may not participate in sports or any other

extra-curricular activity.

Parents and students are responsible for all loaned textbooks, library books, laptops, calculators, and any other school equipment

issued to or used by the student.

Transportation

Transportation arrangements must be made before sending children to school. Any changes to the normal arrangements for

each student must be communicated to the school in writing or in person. We will not make bus rider changes over the phone.

Automobiles

No middle school student is permitted to drive or park a motor vehicle of any type on the school campus.

Bus Conduct (District Policy).

When boarding the bus:

Students must not bring animals, drinks, firearms, explosives or other dangerous weapons onto the bus.

Students must ride the bus which they are regularly assigned.

When riding the bus:

Students must conduct themselves in an acceptable manner at all times. The driver is in full charge of the bus. Vulgarity, horse

playing, boisterousness, or other improper conduct is not permitted.

Students shall occupy the seat assigned to them by the driver. Students may change seats after the load has been lightened if

permission is obtained from the driver.

Students must avoid unnecessary conversation with the driver. No loud talking or otherwise distracting the driver.

Students must not show disrespect for motorists or pedestrians passed on the bus route.

Students must not block the aisle or emergency door with musical instruments, laptops, lunch boxes, books, or other

possessions.

Students must not extend arms or heads out of the bus at any time.

Students must be quiet when approaching a railroad crossing.

Students must remain seated while the bus is in motion or if the bus is delayed on the road.

Students must not operate the emergency door or tamper with the emergency door except in the case of an emergency or

practice drill.

Students may not eat or drink on the bus.

18

Students must not damage or deface any part of the bus and should assist the driver in keeping the bus clean. Report any

damages to the driver immediately.

When departing the bus:

Students may not depart the bus before it arrives at its designated stops.

Students must depart the bus in an orderly manner.

Administration may revoke bus riding privileges for a student for the remainder of the year, after 3 violations of level 2 or

any level 3,4, or 5 infraction of the code of conduct while on the bus.

Missed Bus

If a student misses the bus because of reasons beyond the control of the transportation department, it becomes the responsibility

of the parents to see that the student gets to school.

Visitation Procedures

The learning community of Lady’s Island Middle School welcomes and encourages parents to visit our school. We hope your

visit will be a rewarding experience, one that provides you with a greater insight into the skill, professionalism, and dedication of

our teachers. To ensure that the instructional process of teaching and learning is not disturbed, we have specific requirements

that we ask all visitors to comply with during their time in the classroom.

Please sign-in at the main office and ask to see an administrator if you wish to visit/observe your child’s class. Prior

notification is requested as a courtesy.

Observations will not be allowed if the class is involved in testing.

Visitors are asked to sit in the rear of the classroom and not disrupt the instructional process.

Visitors are asked to turn and cell phones before entering the class. Visitors are not allowed to record or take pictures in

the classroom setting due to privacy laws.

At the completion of the observation, visitors with any concerns are asked to meet with administration prior to leaving

campus.

Visitors who wish to schedule a parent-teacher conference may leave contact information for the teacher with the

guidance counselor or administrator before leaving the school. The guidance department will contact you to schedule

the requested conference.

Lady’s Island Middle School

Documents

Transcript of Lady’s Island Middle School