GROVE PUBLIC SCHOOLS

2007-2008 BOARD OF EDUCATION

Dr. James Rutter - President

Dr. James Gray - Vice President Kenneth Wright - Clerk Jerry Crossley - Member Rami Masri - Member

Administrative Officers

Tom Steen - Superintendent

John Ann Thompson - Indian Education Director Jimmie Johnston - Athletic Director

Pat Dodson - Principal Theresa Morley - Assistant Principal

Rhonda Rector - Counselor Janie Sweeten - Counselor

Terri Botts - Nurse

PHILOSOPHY - We believe in excellence in education for each student as best befits his/her needs, capabilities and aspirations. Opportunity for learning is basic to our democratic heritage, and becomes an individual right to be nurtured, protected and advanced through public education. We commit ourselves to timely curricular and co-curricular selections, which stress academic disciplines, moral objectives, physical development, social efficiency and productive citizenship. We recognize and encourage community interests, needs and organizations which influence and compliment educational purposes. We appreciate the critical need to learn how to learn in an ever changing society while retaining the traditional values and a respect for proper authority. We stress a cooperative faculty and administrative relationship to provide a professional atmosphere for learning. Finally, we believe in the individual worth of each student and in his future.

MISSION STATEMENT - The primary mission of the Grove Public School district is to provide a quality education, which meets the diverse needs of all children. We will afford each student with the opportunity to develop to his or her maximum potential regardless of personal handicap, ethnic or socio-economic origin, and empower them to become competent, productive contributors to a democratic society, which will continue to be the hallmark of this school district.

EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES - In accordance with this stated, approved and adopted philosophy, the Board of Education, administration, faculty and students of the Grove Public Schools have set forth the following objectives to help the individual have:

A command of the knowledge, skills, habits and attitudes essential for effective learning through life.
An understanding of man and society, and the skills necessary for effectiveness in communicating ideas and feelings.
A knowledge of self, understanding of one’s characteristics and motivations, and appropriate development of individual abilities and interests.
A proficiency in recognizing and defining problems, thinking critically, objectively and creatively about them, and acting constructively toward their solution.

Student Code of Conduct

STUDENTS ENTERING GMS FOR THE FIRST TIME MUST BRING WITH THEM: A copy of their current transcript, copy of their withdrawal grades from the preceding school attended, a copy of their immunization records, proof of Legal Guardianship if needed and a copy of their birth certificate.

IMMUNIZATION - Students must have a complete immunization record to attend Grove Public Schools. Immunization records found to be incomplete will be referred to the school nurse immediately. Immunization deficiencies must be satisfied before the student can continue in attendance.

VISITORS PASSES - All visitors (student or adult) are to use the main entrance of the building and will report to the building principal upon arrival at school. A photo ID is required to obtain a visitor pass to access the school building. Students are not permitted to have student visitors in classes.

PARENT VOLUNTEERS – Parents of students are encouraged to visit the school. Any parent interested in volunteer services should contact the school principal.

FREE TEXTBOOKS - All textbooks used in the Grove Schools are furnished by the state. All students are responsible for and will be asked to pay for unnecessary damage or loss of books. If you find that books have been misplaced please turn them in at the office so they can be returned to the owner. Parents are required to buy the necessary workbooks. Workbooks may become property of the school at the end of the year. Parents may also be asked to purchase special equipment, periodicals for certain courses. Students will be assigned one textbook per class. If that book is lost or stolen student must pay total replacement cost before obtaining another book. Payment previously made for lost textbooks will be refunded if the book is found at a later date.

STUDENT PLANNERS - Each student will receive a student planner. Students are expected to use this planner as an organizational tool as well as a communication tool between home and school. Teachers are not responsible for writing assignments in the student planner, but will provide a routine for doing so in the classroom.

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCE - Parents are encouraged to come for conferences with the school faculty. Conferences should be scheduled at 8:05 a.m., after school or during teachers planning period. The principals and superintendent offices are open to parents at all times. Scheduled Parent-Teacher Conferences will be held on October 23 & 24 and March 26 & 27 of the 2008-09 school year.

Split Lunch Bell Schedule

8:15 Bell to enter building 8:30 Bell to class 8:35-9:25 1st hour 9:30-10:20 2nd hour 10:25-11:15 3rd hour *Student’s 5th hour class will 11:20-12:10 4th hour determine whether they have 12:10-12:40 (A) lunch A or B lunch. 12:15-1:05 (B) 5th hour 12:45-1:35 (A) 5th hour 1:05-1:35 (B) lunch 1:40-2:30 6th hour 2:35-3:25 7th hour

LOCKERS - Each student will be assigned a locker at which time they may choose to place a lock on it. A combination or duplicate key must be provided to the principal. Students have no reasonable expectation of privacy towards school lockers, desks and other school property; these may be opened and examined by school officials at any time. No reason shall be necessary for such a search. Lockers will be checked at the end of the school year. Students are responsible for all material in the assigned locker. Students are urged to leave no money or valuables in their lockers. A fine will be assessed for any locker not cleaned and left in acceptable condition at end of year.

GRADES - The following letter grades will appear on report cards and in the student's permanent record. 90-100 - A – Excellent 80-89 - B - Above Average 70-79 - C – Average 60-69 - D - Below Average Below 60 - F - Failing "I" - Incomplete

ZAP – Zeros Aren’t Permitted is a program designed to increase expectations of students who habitually, or occasionally, fail to complete and turn in homework assignments on time. It is first and foremost an expectation of higher academic standards for all students. ZAP, which involves all students, staff, and parents, clearly emphasizes the belief that homework assignments and projects are important and must be completed. This program will direct students to utilize their abilities to acquire self-discipline and work habits that will serve them well in the educational setting and hopefully in the future when they enter the workplace. When the belief is expressed and maintained that a student can and will be successful, it follows that the student will meet the expectations. Grove Middle School believes that notifying parents of missing assignments and allowing students to experience natural consequences improves student success. In addition, all teachers will provide support for students to be better students. For this program to be effective, all teachers will adopt the following procedure: Students who do not complete an assignment on time will receive a ZAP notice. Work is to be returned with a parent signature before 1st hour the following day. Students who fail to complete work will be assigned to Homework Recovery.

Homework Recovery – Students are provided an afterschool opportunity to complete missing assignments until 4:30 pm Monday through Thursday. Students who fail to attend assigned Homework Recovery will serve ISI. Homework Recovery is not a form of punishment but rather a program to send the message that failure is not an option at Grove Middle School.

ISI – Grove Middle School In-School-Intervention program begins at 8:05 am and ends at 3:25 pm. ISI students must report directly to the principal upon reporting to school. Students are responsible for taking supplies and textbooks with them to the ISI. Assignments will be provided by the student’s teachers. Failure to follow ISI rules and procedures will result in further disciplinary action, including suspension.

EXEMPTIONS

All students, unless exempt, must take a Final Exam (2nd and 4th nine weeks). The final test will count 10% of the student’s grade. Exemption requirements are as follows per class:

A / 3 or less absences B / 2 or less absences C / 1 or less absences D / 0 days absent

Please note: school activity absences do not count towards exemptions.

STANDARDIZED TESTS -Standardized tests for academic progress are given in the spring to each student. Parents may contact the school counselor concerning their child's educational progress as measured by these achievement tests.

STUDENT ATTENDANCE INFORMATION Absence is the cause of many of the failures in school. Unless health forbids or serious emergency arises at home, students should be at school. Parents or guardians of a student missing four or more days, or parts of days, during any four week period will be notified. A copy of notification may be sent to District Attorney's office in attempt to keep truancy at a minimum. Responsibility for making up work lies entirely with the student. The student should make appointments with teachers to ascertain the missed work. The student assumes the entire burden of getting this work done and handed in to the teachers. Students who are absent and fail to request homework assignments will receive a ZAP notice. Punctuality and regular attendance are essential to success in school and later on the job.

ATTENDANCE, ABSENCE & MAKE-UP WORK - The school law provides that all children between the ages of 5-18 must attend school unless they have finished high school. Each student is required to attend each class a minimum of 90% of the semester, allowing students to have nine absences each semester. The District Attorney’s office will be notified of any student that is not in compliance with this Compulsory Attendance Law. Absences because of school activities, illness substantiated by a doctor's or dentist's statement, religious observance, or those deemed unavoidable by the principal will not be counted against the 90 percent attendance requirement. If a student goes to a doctor or dentist they must have a note from that office by the second day they return to school or no Documented absence will be granted. Any extended illness will also be marked Documented upon review of the building principal. Death in family will not count toward the 90 percent attendance requirement. For each day absent the student will be allowed two school days to make up work missed. For each day absent due to scheduled school activities, the student will be allowed one school day for each day missed to make up work assigned while absent from those classes.

TYPES OF ABSENCES -

SCHOOL ACTIVITY (R): School sponsored or sanctioned, make up work is allowed (does not count against the nine allowable absences)

Ten Day Rule: In accordance with the policy of the Board of Education, the following shall govern student attendance: School Activity: These are extra curricular activities, whether sponsored by the school or outside agency, which remove the student from class for more that half of a class period. The total number of school activity absences allowed by any one class period without permission from the internal review committee and approved by the local Board shall be ten. Once a student has had ten activity absences allowed by any one class period, the student must be reported to the Principal's Office for consideration for further absences. The Internal Review Committee shall be appointed by the BOE and review the policy on an annual basis. The criteria for counting beyond the ten day absence limit shall be as follows: a. A student must have a letter grade of a "C" or better in the subject he/she wants to miss.

b. Before a student is given permission to be absent beyond the ten day limit, even though he/she has "C"or better, his/her record must show that his/her grade was not adversely affected by the previous ten days of absence and he/she has turned in all required work missed on previous days out.

B. DOCUMENTED: Explanation of absences on professional stationary from a doctor, court, counselor, funeral etc. (does not count against the nine allowable absences).

C. EXPLAINED: Parent contact has been made either by phone or a note from the parent/guardian (this counts towards a student’s nine allowable absences.).

D. UNEXPLAINED: No parent contact (counts towards a student’s nine allowable absences).

E. SUSPENDED: This absence is recorded due to a child being suspended/expelled from school as per school policy (this does not count against the nine allowable absences).

ADMITS - If a student is absent from school, it will be necessary for the parent/guardian to notify the attendance office in advance or between the hours of 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. on the day of the absence in order for the student to receive an Explained absence for that day. The student will not need an admit to class if the school receives notification at these times. If the parent/guardian is unable to call in advance or between the hours of 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. on the day of the absence, then the student will be given an Unexplained absence for that day and it will be necessary for the student to bring a note (for an Explained absence) from the parent/guardian stating the reason for the absence, by 8:30 a.m. on the day of their return to school. Upon receiving the note from the parent/guardian, the attendance office will issue an admit slip.

If the absence is necessitated due to an illness requiring a doctor’s appointment, dental appointment or funeral, the student should provide documented proof upon the day of return.

Failure to pick-up an Admit before 8:30 a.m. will result in the student receiving detention.

If a student is checked out of school early for any appointment, it will be considered Explained and the student will not need to pick up an admit the next day. However, if the student is checked out early for a medical or dental appointment or funeral then documented proof must be turned in to the attendance office upon the day of return in order for that absence not to be counted against the 90% rule.

Students are not to be dropped off at the Court Yard after the day has begun. Students returning to school following check-out must report to the office. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action.

The Middle School toll free number is 1-877-776-5845 or locally 918-786-2209.

TARDY - The Grove Board of Education believes that punctuality to assigned duties should be learned as early as possible. Therefore, student tardiness is not permitted. If a student is not in the classroom and in their seat when the class bell rings, the student is tardy. Students with unexcused tardies will serve noon detention. If a student is tardy 3 times in one class then the 3rd tardy will be recorded as an absence. Anytime a student is tardy 20 minutes or more to a class it will be recorded as an absence.

DETENTION - Detention may be assigned for AM (7:45-8:30), PM (3:30-4:15), Lunch (30 minutes) or Saturday (8:00-12:00), ISI (8:05 – 3:25). Parents of student riding the bus will be responsible for arranging transportation for those students receiving detention. When assigned to detention the student must report to the class on time, remain seated for the duration of the period, and bring school material to work on. If a student is in attendance at school on the day assigned to detention, he/she must report to detention class or face further disciplinary action.

PERMIT TO LEAVE SCHOOL - A student who leaves the school at any time during the day must check out at the office with the permission of the principal. If he/she returns before school is dismissed, he/she must check in at the office. Parents must phone or come in person to check student out. No notes will be accepted. Any student leaving school without checking out will by placed in am/pm, ISI, or Saturday detention according to GMS Discipline Policy. Students must sign out in main office before leaving campus even if parent has previously called.

PERMANENT WITHDRAWAL - A student moving out of the Grove School District is required to withdraw formally with parent/guardian signing withdrawal forms. Withdrawal forms originate in the counselors' offices. A copy of the final form and a copy of the student's immunization record will be provided the student and his transfer school upon its completion, payment of dues or fees, and proof that all text and library books have been returned.

DISCIPLINE POLICY - Teachers will send a discipline form to the assistant principal and the following steps may be taken:

First Offense: Written notification will be sent to the parents/guardians followed with a consultation with the assistant principal. According to the adopted Discipline Policy Action Schedule, any combined steps may be used based upon the infraction. (BOE-FO)

Second Offense: Written notification will be sent to the parent/guardians followed with a consultation with the assistant principal. Student may be assigned to lunch or Saturday morning detention. Based on the infraction, the principal retains the right to use any step in the Discipline Action Schedule (cross reference BOE-FO).

Third Offense: Written notification will be sent to the parents/guardians followed with a consultation with the assistant principal. Any step may be used in the Discipline Action Schedule (BOE-FO) including corporal punishment. If corporal punishment is used, a signed parental permission form must be on file in the principal's office. Corporal punishment, if administered, shall not exceed three swats with a wooden paddle.

Pursuant to 70 O.S. 6-114 as amended by the Oklahoma legislature, the Grove Board of Education has adopted the following policy for the control and discipline of all children attending this school. The parent or guardian of every child attending this school may receive a copy of the policy if they so request. In response to the legislative call, Grove Public Schools has drafted a Discipline Action Schedule. The intent of this schedule is to provide students with a definition of the limits of acceptable behavior and to equip school personnel for their disciplinary responsibilities. Nothing in this discipline schedule shall be construed to deny the student's right to fair and orderly hearings, appeal, counsel, and due to process in cases which may end in suspension. The principals will have the authority to remove or suspend any student for a violent act or an act showing deliberate or reckless disregard for the health and safety of faculty or other students.

SUSPENSION - A student may be suspended by the principal when such a student is found to be guilty of any of:

Willful violation of any published regulation for the student conduct adopted or approved by the BOE.
Conduct which substantially disrupts, impedes, or interferes with the operation of any public school.
The use and/or possession of alcohol, non-intoxicating beverages (as defined by state law), or narcotics.
Conduct which substantially infringes upon or invades the rights of others, or
Disobedience of an order of a teacher, peace officer, school security officer, or other school authority when such disobedience can be reasonably anticipated to result in disorder, disruption, or interference with the operation of any public school or substantial and material infringement upon or invasion of the right of others.
Willful destruction or theft of any property belonging to the school, other students, or school personnel.

SUSPENSION POLICY OF THE GROVE SCHOOL BOARD - The judicial extension of Fourteenth Amendment protection to students in the public school emphasizes the need for school administrators to protect the procedural due process right of students in discipline cases. The policy of the School District must be consistent with the due process right of students & must provide proper machinery for fair & consistent treatment of students. Assignments will be provided for suspended students. Short Term Suspension (less than 10 days): 1st STS- work graded for credit. 2nd STS-work graded @ 50%. 3rd STS- no credit or grades. Long Term Suspension (semester or longer): no grades or credit for work completed.

Pre-Suspension Conferences:

When a student violates board policy or a school rule or regulation, the principal will conduct an informal conference with the student.
At the conference with the student the principal will read the policy, rule or regulation which the student is charged with having violated and will discuss the conduct of the student which is a violation of the policy, rule or regulation.
The student will be asked whether he/she understands the policy, rule or regulation and be given a full opportunity to explain and discuss his/her conduct.
If it is concluded that a suspension is appropriate, the student will be advised that he/she is being suspended and the length of the suspension.
The principal will immediately notify the parent by phone or in writing that the student is being suspended from school by the principal. Elementary and middle school students will not be dismissed before the end of the school day without advance notice to the parent.

Immediate Suspension without a Pre-Suspension Conference:

A student may be suspended without the above pre-suspension conference with the student only in situations where the conduct of the student reasonably indicates to the principal that the continued presence of the student in the building will constitute a danger to the health or safety of the students, or to school property, or a continued substantial disruption of the educational process.
In such cases, a suspension conference with the student and the parent or guardian will be scheduled as soon as possible after the student has been removed from the building. Further review of the suspension policy is available in the principal’s office.

SCHOOL BULLYING PREVENTION ACT - School Harassment, Intimation and Bullying Policy (as taken from the Grove School Board Policy Manual. Further definitions of this Act can be examined through the school office)

Statutory definition of harassment, intimidation and bullying 70 Okla. Stat. 24-100(C) of the School Bullying Protection Act defines the terms "harass, intimidate or bully," as including, but not limited to, any gesture, written or verbal expression, or physical act that a reasonable person should recognize will: Harm another student; Damage another student’s property, Place another student in reasonable fear or harm to the student’s person or damage to the student’s property; or insult or demean any student or group of students in such a way as to disrupt or interfere with the school’s educational mission or the education of any student.
The "Reasonable Person" standard: What a “reasonable person” should recognize as an act placing a student in reasonable fear of harm from both an adult and child’s point of view.
General Display of Bullying Acts: Physical Bullying, Emotional Bullying, Social Bullying, Sexual Bullying
Student Reporting: Students are encouraged to inform school personnel if they are the victims of or a witness to acts of harassment, intimidation or bullying.
Staff Reporting: An important duty of the staff is to report acts or behavior that the employee witnesses that appears to constitute harassing, intimidating or bullying. Employees whether certified or non-certified, shall encourage students who tell them about acts that may constitute intimidation, harassment or bullying, to complete a report form. Staff members who witness such events are to complete reports and to submit them to the employee designated by the principal to receive them. Staff members who hear of incidents that may, in the staff member’s judgment, constitute harassment, intimidation or bullying, are to report all relevant information to the building principal or his/her designee.
Parental Responsibilities: Parents/guardians will be informed in writing of the District’s program to stop intimidation, harassment and bullying. An administrative response to a reported act of intimidation, harassment or bullying may involve certain actions to be taken by parents. Parents will be informed of the program and the means for the students to report bullying acts toward them or other students. They will also be told that to help prevent bullying at school they should encourage their children to: (1) Report bullying when it occurs; (2) Take advantage of opportunities to talk to their children about bullying. (3) Inform the school immediately if they think their child is being bullied or is bullying other students. (4) Watch for symptoms that their child may be a victim of bullying and report those symptoms, and (5) Cooperate fully with school personnel in identifying and resolving incidents.

TRANSPORTATION - All buses used by the Grove Schools meet State Department of Education requirements and operate in cooperation with their regulations. Students, who ride the school buses to and from home and on school trips, should be careful about loading and unloading. Always wait for the bus to STOP. Safety is stressed at all times. Students are to regard the bus as a classroom as far as conduct is concerned; the driver is to have absolute authority and is expected to maintain discipline in order to prevent serious accidents. No student is to depart from the bus until it reaches the school or home. Students are allowed to have only one (1) drop-off point during the evening bus route.

BUS RIDER RULES -Riding a school bus is a privilege and the privilege may be removed for not abiding by the bus rider rules. Previous to loading students should: 1. Be on time at the designated bus stops - keep the bus on schedule. 2. Stay off the road at all times while waiting for the bus. 3. Wait until the bus comes to a complete stop before attempting to enter. 4. Be careful in approaching bus stops. 5. Do not move toward the bus at the school loading zone until the bus has been brought to a complete stop. 6. Respect people and their property while waiting on the bus. 7. Receive school official authorization to be discharged at places other than the regular bus stop.

While on the bus students should:

1. Keep all parts of the body inside the bus. 2. Refrain from eating and drinking on the bus. 3. Refrain from the use of any form of tobacco, alcohol, or drugs. 4. Assist in keeping the bus safe and clean at all times. 5. Remember that loud talking and laughing or unnecessary confusion diverts the driver’s attention and may result in a serious accident. (The life you save may be your own.) 6. Treat bus equipment as you would valuable furniture in your own home. Damage to seats, etc. must be paid for by the offender. 7. Should never tamper with the bus or any of its equipment. 8. Maintain possession of books, lunches, or other articles and keep the aisle clear. 9. Help look after the safety and comfort of small children. 10. Do not throw objects in or out of the bus. 11. Remain in their seats while the bus is in motion. 12. Refrain from horseplay and fighting on the school bus. 13. Be courteous to fellow pupils, the bus driver, and the patrol officers or driver's assistants. 14. Remain quiet when approaching a railroad crossing stop. 15. Remain in the bus during road emergencies except when it may be hazardous to their safety.

After leaving the bus students should: 1. Go at least ten (10) feet in front of the bus, stop, check traffic, wait for the bus driver's signal, then, cross. 2. Go home immediately staying clear of traffic. 3. Help look after the safety and comfort of small children.

Extracurricular Trips 1. The above rules and regulations should apply to all trips under school sponsorship. 2. Sponsors should be appointed by the school officials.

LUNCH - A hot lunch is provided at the school cafeteria for the benefit of all students. Students are urged to take advantage of the type A Hot Lunch served daily. If the student has forgotten his/her lunch money he/she may charge for the day. Charging lunch is to be done ONLY in case of emergency. Charges will be limited to $10.00 per family from August to May 1. Students who exceed this limit will be unable to charge in the cafeteria. After May 01 or each school year, charges will not be permitted and outstanding accounts must be paid in full. Rather than allow a child to go hungry, the school will provide a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and milk when students wish to eat in the cafeteria but have exceeded the charges allowed. Please Note: Lunch business will be taken care of in the cafeteria before school only. Students may receive a free or reduced rate for school lunches. The previous year’s Free & Reduced lunch application will carry over into the next school year for 30 days. A new application must be submitted each year. For additional information, contact the principal, Students will be charged regular price until all forms have been completed. Pop or candy may not be taken inside the school or lunchroom. Students who bring lunch are required to eat in the lunchroom, patio, or Student Center. Lunch prices: Middle School Student - $2.25, Adults $2.50, extra milk .25, Breakfast is Free for all students.

HONOR ROLL -Honor Rolls will be published at the end of each semester. Students who have maintained a "B" average will be listed on the Principal's Honor Roll (physical education, competitive athletics, vocal music and instrumental music are considered activity classes and are not academic subjects; therefore, grades in these classes shall not be used to determine any Honor Roll eligibility). Students who have an "A" average in all academic subjects will be listed on the Superintendent's Honor Roll

ATTENDANCE AWARDS - Pupils who have not been absent for the entire year who enrolled the first day of school will be given attendance certificates.

STATE HONOR SOCIETY - Any seventh or eighth grade student who is enrolled in a minimum of five academic subjects, and who ranks in the upper 10% of the student body during the last semester of the preceding year and first semester of the current year will be nominated to the STATE HONOR SOCIETY.

ATHLETICS - Grove Middle School has an organized athletic program, set up with teams participating in interscholastic sports prevalent in Oklahoma. Oklahoma Secondary Schools Activity Association rules will govern all participants in athletics. Each student is required to understand eligibility rules and protect his or her eligibility.

In order to compete in two sports that are played concurrently the athlete must choose one of the sports as his or her primary sport. The coaches in both sports must agree and they will inform the athletic director.
If an athlete chooses to drop a sport he or she must do so no later than one week after the first competitive event in order to participate in another sport being played concurrently. If the athlete drops a sport after the allowable time frame he or she will receive a failing for that nine weeks. The athlete will be allowed to drop and change one time.

All middle school students participating in athletics are encouraged to purchase school accident insurance unless they have equal or better accident insurance.

All middle school students participating in athletics will be issued a lock for personal use. A $5.00 fee will be assessed if the lock is not turned in at the end of the school year.

LOCAL AND STATE ELIGIBILITY -To be eligible for competition in any kind of interscholastic activities, a student must meet the following requirements:

Be under 15 years of age on September 1.
Have a physician's examination and parental consent certificate on file with the principal.
Be in attendance 90 per cent of the time for the semester.
A student, whose conduct of character outside the school is such as to reflect discredit upon the school, shall be ineligible until reinstated by the principal.
A student, who is disqualified during a game or contest because of flagrant or unsportsmanlike conduct, shall be ineligible until reinstated by the principal.
A student may be placed upon disciplinary probation by the principal. During such probationary period, the principal shall be allowed to impose reasonable restrictions upon the student and in no event shall such student participate in any extracurricular school activities.
Teachers shall turn in a list of all failing students to the counselor by 11:00 a.m. each Thursday. The grades shall be based on work ended at 3:20 p.m. Wednesday.

LOCAL BOARD POLICY ON NON-OSSAA ACTIVITIES - Students who are ineligible for interscholastic competition shall not miss classes they are failing in order to attend school-sponsored or school-sanctioned activities. Senior exemptions under OSSAA regulations do not apply to the following activities that said policy may include but are not limited to: Meetings of any organization or club, assemblies for limited groups, meetings for which the entire student body is not dismissed field trips, gifted and talented field trips, running errands, decorating for dances, homecoming, etc. all extra-curricular activities will fall under the OSSAA guidelines.

STUDENT COUNCIL OFFICERS President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Reporter, two class representatives from each class (6,7,8). Secretary, Treasurer and Reporter may be 6, 7, or 8 graders.

ALL CANDIDATES FOR OFFICE SHALL MEET THE FOLLOWING REQUIREMENTS:

Students must have a combined grade point average of 2.0 with no "F" in the semester prior to the election. Students must have at least a grade point average of 2.0 in the current semester of the election.

HERITAGE CLUB -The Heritage Club promotes Indian cultural awareness and pride through various activities throughout the year. Membership is open to any middle school student who is of Indian decent.

NATIONAL JUNIOR HIGH HONOR SOCIETY members are invited to join during the 7th or 8th grades. Students are selected on the basis of scholarship, citizenship, leadership, and must meet the required grade point average of 3.7 or above. The club meets to promote activities to help the school and community.

MIDDLE SCHOOL CHEERLEADERS -The cheerleading squad will consist of seventh and eighth grade members. The squad will be elected in April of the preceding year. To be eligible to try out a student must be enrolled at Grove Middle School and have a "C" average or better in all academic classes (as per honor roll) based on the previous semester grades. Also, they must attend pre-tryout sessions. State eligibility applies. Each cheerleader will abide by the rules of the cheerleader constitution.

ANNOUNCEMENTS -A weekly bulletin will be provided by the school office. Announcements for the next week should be in the office not later than 1:00 p.m. each Friday.

ASSEMBLIES - At all times the student's behavior should be refined and courteous. An indication of the cultural level of the school is the conduct of its student body at an assembly. Whether guests are present or not, each student is personally responsible for the impression made by the school as a whole. Unacceptable conduct would include whistling, uncalled-for-clapping, boisterousness, and talking during a program. Prior to a general assembly, students are to report to their class. Textbooks and other materials are to be left in the class or lockers.

HEALTH SERVICES -School children sometimes complain of illness at school but are able to continue with their class work without going home. Feeling that parents may wish to know what criteria is used in making decisions about whether to send a child home or return a child to class, we will be using the following guidelines to send children home: A child with a temperature of 100 degrees. A child who vomits at school. A child who reports diarrhea and states that he/she is having difficulty getting to the restroom on time. A child with a questionable rash. A child with "pink eye" and who has discharge in the eye. A child who is so uncomfortable that he/she is not able to function in school. We try to take into consideration a child’s report of having been sick at home or of illness in other family members. We never refuse to allow a child to call home if he/she states that a parent has requested this. Students becoming ill during the school day should report to the office. Except in an emergency, all students must have a pass from their classroom teacher before coming to the office. If there is a necessity to go home, the office or nurse will inform the parent & the student will be released from school when the parent picks them up in the office. If the procedure is not followed & the student leaves without properly checking out, the student will be regarded as truant for classes missed. The office will contact the school nurse if necessary.

MEDICATION -If it is necessary for medication to be given during school hours, the medication must be brought to school in its original container (both prescription and nonprescription medication with original label intact). Written signed authorization and/or request to "Give Medication" form must be filled out by the student’s parent or guardian. Please include student’s name, medication name, dose, time to be given, stop date, special instructions, and parent or guardian signature. All medication is kept in the office in a locked cabinet. If medication is not properly labeled and without written signed authorization, it will not be given. Students are not allowed to carry medication with them without appropriate written authorization from parent/guardian and or/physician.

SCHOOL ATTENDANCE OF CHILD AFFLICTED WITH CONTAGIOUS DISEASE - HEAD LICE- any child afflicted with a contagious disease or head lice may be prohibited from attending a public, private or parochial school until such time the child is free from the contagious disease or head lice. Any child prohibited from attending school due to head lice shall present to the appropriate school authorities, before said child may reenter school, certification from a health professional as defined by Section 2601 of Title 63 of the Oklahoma Statutes or an authorized representative of the State Department of Health (70-1210.194). Students will be medically excused from school for head lice no more than one day.

TELEPHONE - Students will not be permitted to use the telephone in the middle school office except in case of an emergency. NO STUDENT WILL BE EXCUSED FROM CLASS TO MAKE OR RECEIVE A TELEPHONE CALL EXCEPT IN THE CASE OF AN EMERGENCY. Messages will be delivered to students. Students will be given an unexcused tardy to class when tardy because of using the telephone. Pay phones are provided for the use of students & if it is necessary for a student to call home they will be expected to use them.

Use of Wireless Telecommunication Device by Students

Any student having a wireless telecommunication device must keep the device turned “off” and not visible during the regular school day. Use of wireless communication devices are prohibited in the school building. Devices must remain “off” and stored in a locker, backpack, purse, pocket, or other place where it is not visible during school hours. If school staff observes such a device, it may be confiscated until redeemed by a parent or guardian. The exception to the policy may be granted by the site administrator for purposes relating to the health needs of a student.

NOTE: Schools are not responsible for the theft or loss of any student’s wireless communication device.

DRESS - The Board of Education of the Grove Public Schools believes that a student dress code is appropriate to maintain good order and decorum as an essential part of the School District’s educational mission. Grove Middle School students are expected to dress appropriately and to conduct themselves in a manner that will bring credit to themselves, their families and the school. Although it is impossible to identify and label every variation in student attire as acceptable or unacceptable, the School District provides the following guidelines concerning student attire at school, at school-sponsored or authorized functions and on school vehicles. Students will not wear sunglasses, hats, caps, or any other type headgear in school buildings. Exceptions to the requirements concerning hats/caps and sunglasses may be made by the building principal for medical reasons on instructions from the student’s physician. Students will not wear clothing that unduly exposes the body, such as tops that do not cover the midriff, excessively low cut blouses or dresses, halter tops, see-through clothing, excessively tight shorts or short shorts, dresses or skirts. Girls in sleeveless tops must have a shoulder strap that is a minimum of one inch in width. Students will not wear sagging pants that might expose their undergarments. Students will belt or otherwise adjust oversized or sagging pants to fit. Students will not wear clothing or accessories that display symbols, pictures, lettering or numbering that is profane, vulgar, sexually suggestive, unpatriotic, repulsive or obscene or that advertises or promotes dangerous weapons, tobacco, alcoholic beverages, low-point beer, drugs, drug-related items, drug paraphernalia or other items or activities that are illegal for the general population or for minors. Students will not (a) wear any type of clothing or accessory, any style of make-up or any hair style or arrangement or (b) display any decoration that is likely to cause a substantial and material disruption of school operations or a threat to the safety or the student or others. Muscle shirts, undershirts, or cut out sleeves are not to be worn. Sleeveless undershirts or fishnet (wide mesh) shirts are not to be worn alone as outer garments. Shoes are to be worn. Students are to wear their hair clean, neat and so as not to create a disruption in the classroom. Facial, tongue or body piercing (with the exception of the ears) is prohibited. Extreme make-up, unnatural hair styles or colors and the wearing of inappropriate accessories will not be allowed. For safety reasons, students will not wear heavy chain necklaces or chains, including wallet chains. Students participating in activities which represent the school are required to meet dress regulations, as directed by the sponsor and administration. We suggest that parents or students place names in all coats, sweater, hats, gloves or other items which could be lost or misplace. The preceding policies are set down in order to provide the most pleasant and academic environment possible for the entire student body. For safety purposes, use of backpacks in the school building will be limited.

MIDDLE SCHOOL DANCES - Once a student has accumulated excessive discipline points, at the principal’s discretion, he/she may NOT attend any Middle School sponsored dances, the remainder of that school year.

WEAPONS - It is the policy of this school district to comply fully with the Gun-Free Schools Act.

1. Any student in this school district who uses or possesses a firearm at school, at any school-sponsored event or in or upon any school property including school transportation or school sponsored transportation will be removed from school for not less than one full calendar year. Firearms are defined in Title 18 of the United States Code, Section, 921, as (A) any weapon (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive; (B) the frame or receiver of any such weapon; (C) any firearm muffler or firearm silencer; or (D) any destructive device including any explosive, incendiary or poison gas, bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge of more than four ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce, mine or any device similar to the above. Such firearm or weapon will be confiscated and released only to proper legal authorities.

2. Oklahoma Status, Title 21, Section 1280.1 prohibits any person, except a peace officer or other person authorized by the board of education of the district, to have in such person's possession on any public or private school property or while in any school bus or vehicle used by any school for transportation of students or teachers an weapon as defined below:

"...any pistol, revolver, dagger, bowie knife, dirk knife, switchblade knife, spring-type knife, sword can, knife having a blade which opens automatically by hand pressure applied to a button, spring, or other device in the handle of the knife, blackjack, loaded cane, billy, hand chain, metal knuckles, or any other offensive weapon."

Any student who violates Section 2 of this policy will be subject to discipline which may include suspension up to one full calendar year (for firearms) or for any term less than one calendar year (for weapons other than firearms) as determined by the superintendent or the superintendent's designee. Students with disabilities are subject to this policy and will be disciplined in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act if any such students are determined to be in violation of this policy. An exception to this policy may be made for students participating in an authorized extracurricular activity or team involving the use of firearms or archery equipment. The superintendent or designee may modify the provisions of this policy on a case-by-case basis. However, any substantial modification must be reported to the board of education at its next meeting. The superintendent or principal, teacher, or security personnel upon reasonable suspicion, shall have the authority to detain and search or authorize the search of any pupil or property in the possession of the pupil when said pupil is on any school premises. (Section 492)

REFERENCES: 18 U.S.C. 921, 21 O.S. 1280.1 CROSS-REFERENCE: Policy FNCG, Weapons, Policy FOD, Suspension of Students, Policy FOD-R, Suspension of Students, Regulation Policy FODEA, Student Discipline Procedures for Handicapped Students Policy FODEB, Suspension of Disabled Students GUN FREE POLICY - The Grove Public School Board of Education has adopted a zero tolerance "Gun Free Policy", which is available for review upon request in the office of the principal. Note: The district is required to include, in each application to the State Department of Education for assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, a description of the circumstances surrounding expulsions imposed under this policy, including the name of the school; the number of students expelled from the school, & the type of weapons.

SMOKING - Smoking and/or possession or use of other forms of smokeless tobacco will not be permitted. AS DEFINED BY STATE LAW, IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR MINORS TO BE IN POSSESSION OF TOBACCO PRODUCTS. It is the policy of the Grove Public Schools to contact local law enforcement when state law has been violated on school property.

USE OR POSSESSION OF ALCOHOL – DRUGS ON SCHOOL PROPERTY OR SCHOOL EVENTS

The Board of Education will, to the full extent of its legal powers, attempt to insure the control of the use of alcohol, non-intoxicating beverages (as defined by state law) or narcotics on school properties and at school events. The possession or use of non-intoxicating beverages (as defined by state law), alcohol beverages or narcotics of any description on school premises, school buses, or at any school-sponsored activity will be grounds for immediate suspension from school for up to two semesters. The Grove Public School and Board of Education believes in following a zero Tolerance Policy towards this violation.

DRUG-FREE SCHOOLS - It is the policy of the Grove Board of Education that in recognition of the clear danger resulting from illicit drug and alcohol abuse and in good faith effort to promote the health, safety, and well being of students, employees, and the community, the board has implemented a developmentally based drug and alcohol education prevention program for grades Kindergarten through twelve (K - 12). Students are hereby notified the use, possession, or distribution of illicit drugs, non-intoxicating beverage (as defined by state law) and alcohol is wrong and harmful. Therefore, standards of conduct that are applicable to all schools in this district, prohibit the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs, non-intoxicating beverages (as defined by state law) and alcohol by students on school premises or as part of any of its activities. A School Resource Officer (SRO), accompanied by a school administrator, will from time to time conduct searches on school premises with a trained Drug Dog to help maintain a drug free school. Disciplinary sanctions will be imposed on students who violate standards of conduct required by this policy. Such sanctions will be consistent with local, state, and federal laws, up to and including probation and suspension as well as referral for prosecution. Completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program may also be recommended. Information about drug and alcohol counseling and rehabilitation and re-entry programs will be made available through the school office. The standards of conduct and the disciplinary sanctions imposed by this policy will be part of the required notification to parents and students which will include the following: "The Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments, P.L. 101-226 requires that State, as well as local educational agencies, must certify that it has adopted and implemented a program to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees." (Federal Regulations can be examined through school office.)

REFERENCES: Public Law 101-22670 O.S. 1210.221, et.seq. CROSS REFERENCES: Policy DCC, Drug-Free Workplace, Policy DCCA, Use of illegal Chemical Substances by Employees, Policy FFB, Teaching about Drugs, Alcohol, and Tobacco, Policy FFBA, Drug and Alcohol Use by Students, Policy FNCE, Reporting Students Under the Influence, BOE FNCFD, Drug Testing BOE FNCFC.

FEDERAL FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT - The Grove School District hereby notifies parents and students over 18 years of age ("eligible students") certain rights with respect to the student’s education records under the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). These rights are: (1) The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the District receives a request for access. Parents or eligible students should submit to the school Principal a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect. The Principal will make arrangements for access and notify the parent or eligible student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. (2) The rights to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the parent of eligible student believes are inaccurate. Parents or eligible students may ask the School to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate. They should write the school Principal, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate. If the School decides not to amend the record as requested by the parent or eligible student, the School will notify the parent or eligible student of the decision and advise them of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the parent or eligible student when notified of the right to a hearing. (3) The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the School as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel); a person serving on the School Board; a person or company with whom the School has contracted to perform a special task (such as an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist); or a parent or student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility. Upon request, the school discloses education records without consent to officials of another school district in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. (4) The right to file a complaint with the U. S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the School District to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA are: Family Policy Compliance Office; U. S. Department of Education; 400 Maryland Avenue, SW; Washington, DC 20202-4605.

Notice of Directory Information: The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that Grove Public Schools, with certain exceptions, obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your child’s education records. However, Grove Public Schools may disclose appropriately designated "directory information" without written consent, unless you have advised the District to the contrary in accordance with District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the Grove Public School District to include this type of information from your child’s education records in certain publications. Examples include: A playbill, showing your student’s roll in a drama production or musical event; the annual yearbook; honor roll or other recognition lists; graduation programs; and sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members. Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without a parent’s prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In addition, two federal laws require local educational agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory information categories - names, addresses and telephone listings - unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their student’s information disclosed without their prior written consent. After the parents or eligible students have been notified they will have two weeks to advise the school district in writing (a letter to the school Superintendent’s office) of any or all of the items they refuse to permit the district to designate as directory information about that student. Grove Public Schools has designated the following information as directory information: student’s name; participation in officially recognized activities and sports; addresses; telephone listing; weight and height of members of athletic teams; electronic mail address; photograph; degrees, honors, and awards received; date and place of birth, major field of study, dates of attendance, grade level, the most recent educational agency or institution attended. The District may provide this notice by any means that are reasonable to inform the parents or eligible students of their rights. The District shall effectively notify parents or eligible students who are disabled. The District shall effectively notify parents who have a primary or home language other than English.

NOTIFICATION OF RIGHTS UNDER THE PROTECTION OF PUPIL RIGHTS AMENDMENT (PPRA) Grove - PPRA affords parents and students who are 18 or emancipated minors ("eligible students") certain rights regarding our conduct of surveys, collection and use of information for marketing purposes, and certain physical exams. These include the right to:

Consent before students are required to submit to a survey that concerns one or more of the following protected areas ("protected information survey") if the survey is funded in whole or in part by a program of the U. S. Department of Education (ED) -(1) Political affiliations or beliefs of the student or student’s parent; (2) Mental or psychological problems of the student or student’s family; (3) Sex behavior or attitudes; (4) Illegal, anti-social, self-incriminating, or demeaning behavior; (5) Critical appraisals of others with whom respondents have close family relationships; (6) Legally recognized privileged relationships, such as with lawyers, doctors, or ministers; (7) Religious practices, affiliations, or beliefs of the student or parents; or (8) Income, other than as required by law to determine program eligibility.

Receive notice and an opportunity to opt a student out of - (1) Any other protected information survey, regardless of funding; (2) Any non-emergency, invasive physical exam or screening required as a condition of attendance, administered by the school or its agent, and not necessary to protect the immediate health and safety of a student, except for hearing, vision, or scoliosis screenings or any physical exam or screening permitted or required under State law; and (3) Activities involving collection, disclosure, or use of personal information obtained from students for marketing or to sell or otherwise distribute the information to others.

Inspect - upon request and before administration or use - (1) Protected information surveys of students; (2) Instruments used to collect personal information from students for any of the above marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes and, (3) Instructional material used as part of the educational curriculum.

The Grove Public School District has developed and adopted policies, in consultation with parents, regarding these rights, as well as arrangements to protect student privacy in the administration of protected surveys and the collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales, or other distribution purposes. The District will directly notify parents and eligible students of these policies at least annually at the start of each school year and after any substantive changes. The District will also directly notify parents and eligible students, such as through U. S. Mail, or email at least annually at the start of each school year of the specific or approximate dates of the following activities and provide an opportunity to opt a student out of participating in: Collection, disclosure, or use of personal information for marketing, sales or other distribution; Administration of any protected information survey not funded in whole or in part by ED; Any non-emergency, invasive physical examination or screening as described above. Parents/eligible students who believe their rights have been violated may file a complaint with:

Family Policy Compliance Office; U. S. Department of Education; 400 Maryland Avenue, SW; Washington D. C. 20202-4605.

NON-DISCRIMINATION - The Grove Board of Education is committed to a policy of non-discrimination in relation to race, religion, sex, age, national origin, alienage, disability, or veteran status. This policy will prevail in all matters concerning staff, events, students, the public, employment, educational programs and services, and individuals, companies, and firms with whom the board does business.

NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND ACT OF 2001 PARENTS RIGHT TO KNOW: Section 111 (6) (A) Qualifications - at the beginning of each school year, a local educational agency that receives funds under this part shall notify the parents of each student attending any school receiving funds under this part that the parents may request, and the agency will provide the parents on request (and in a timely manner), information regarding the professional qualifications of the student’s classroom teachers, including, at a minimum, the following: (i) Whether the teacher has met State qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction. (ii) Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which State qualifications or licensing criteria have been waived. (iii) The baccalaureate degree major of the teacher and any other graduate certification or degree held by the teacher, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree. (iv) Whether the child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications. According to the Act, the information listed above must only be provided to parents who request the information. The LEA/school site must notify parents that they have the right to request the information. Section 1111 (6) (B) - Additional Information - in addition to the information that parents may request under subparagraph (A), a school that receives funds under this part shall provide to each individual parent: Information on the level of achievement of the parent’s child in each of the State academic assessments. Timely notice that the parent’s child has been assigned, or has been taught for four (4) or more consecutive weeks by, a teacher who is not highly qualified. The Act also requires that this information be provided to parents, to the extent practicable, in an understandable format and in a language that parents can understand.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT OF STUDENTS - The policy of this school district forbids discrimination against, or harassment of any student on the basis of sex. The Grove Board of Education will not tolerate sexual harassment by any of its employees or students. This policy applies to all students and employees including non-employee volunteer whose work is subject to the control of school personnel. Policy DA applies to sexual harassment of employees.

Students who feel that administrators, supervisors, support personnel, teachers, or other students are subjecting them to sexual harassment are encouraged to report these conditions to the appropriate administrator or teacher. If the student's immediate administrator or teacher is the alleged offending person, the report will be made to the next higher level of administration or supervision or to any responsible adult person. Confidentiality will be maintained and no reprisals or retaliation will be allowed to occur as a result of the good faith reporting of charges of sexual harassment. Any student found to have engaged in sexual harassment of other students shall be subject to sanctions, including, but not limited to warning, suspension or other appropriate punishment subject to applicable procedural and due process requirements.

REFERENCE: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. 2000e-2, 29 C.F.R. 1604.1, et seq. CROSS-REFERENCE: Policy DA, Sexual Harassment (emp.), Policy DAAB, Grievance Procedures, Sex Discrim., Regulation (emp.), Policy DAAB-R, Grievance Procedures, Sex Discrim., Regulation (employees), Policy DO, Termination, Certified Teachers, Policy DO-R, Teacher Termination Procedur

2008 - 2009 Student Handbook

EXEMPTIONS

A / 3 or less absences B / 2 or less absences C / 1 or less absences D / 0 days absent