Handbook

STUDENT/PARENT

HANDBOOK

2014-2015

Dena Arbaugh

Principal

Ron Dobis

Counselor

P.O. Box 1607

41275 Big Bear Blvd.

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

www.bbms.bearvalleyusd.org

This handbook belongs to:

Name: ____________________________________

Home Room: ____________________________________

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome, General Info, Snow Days Info 4

District Information, Site Phone Numbers 5

Big Bear Middle School Staff 6

Vision, Mission Statements 7

Partners in Learning 8

Student Outcomes 9

Student Rights & Obligations: 10-14

Responsibilities, Dress Code, PE Policy, Academic and Citizenship Eligibility,

Cheating & Plagiarism, Homework, Textbooks, Field Trips, Work Permits, Elec. Devices,

Student Search & Seizure, Locker Searches, Sexual Harassment, Child Abuse, Harm of Animals

Promotion Requirements: High Achievers, President Fitness, Awards Assemblies 15

Student Discipline:16-20

Conduct, Duties, Jurisdiction, Out of Class Conduct, Expulsion, Rules & Regulations,

Suspension & Expulsion Laws, Sexual Harassment, Hate Violence, Harassment, Intimidation,

Limits on Suspensions, Terroristic Threats, Recommendation for Expulsion, Firearms, Laser Pointer,

Conduct, Parent Requirements due to Suspensions

Student Programs:21-22

Student Support, Healthy Start, Safe School Ambassador, Transitions, Enrichment/GATE,

School Site Council, Homework Club, Drug Education, ELD (English Learner), Accelerated Reader,

Special Education, Independent Study, Saturday Academy, Detention, Saturday School

Operation CLEANSWEEP23

Extra-Curricular Activities:24-25

Athletics with information for participation, Dances

Safe School Environment: 25-28

Safety Plan, Parent Notification: Closed Campus, Tobacco Free Campus,

Safety & Operations, Surveillance, Drug Dogs, Bus Information, Walking/Bike

Parent Involvement: 28-29

Visiting Campus, Enrollment, Check Out, Emergency Cards, Release during day,

Sign In & Out, Messages, School Site Council, Cub Backers Pick Up, Report Cards Dates of Mailings

Education Rights & Responsibilities:29-31

Complaints, Custody Issues, Disruption, Homeless Student Rights, Attendance, Tardies,

Excused Absences, Excused Absences cont’d, Religious Absences, Truancies/

Student Absence Review Board (SARB), Absences, Daily Attendance/CALWorks,

Accountability Report Card

Equal Opportunities:32-33

Nondiscrimination, Use of Technology, Assessment, Special Education, Students with Disabilities,

Child Find System, Property Damage, Complaints, Parents’ Right to Know

Medical and Health Information:33-35

Meals, Medication, Immunizations, Emergency Treatment, Medical & Hospital Care

Health Insurance, Physical Examinations, Temporary Disabilities, Home/Hospital

Appendix:

Discipline Guidelines36-40

School Map41

Dance Contract42

Personal Electronic Devices permission slip43

Signature Page44

WELCOME TO BIG BEAR MIDDLE SCHOOL

On behalf of the Big Bear Middle school faculty and staff, I am pleased to welcome all 7^th and 8^th graders, both new and returning students. Our expectations for all BBMS students are the following: they must arrive at school on time; be in every class on time with all materials needed for class; complete all assignments, all homework, and participate in each class to earn credits each semester; show respect to classmates and teachers at all times. If there is something that concerns a student, come to the office with questions and we will always listen and do whatever we need to make every student’s middle school experience positive and successful. There should be no reason for any student to receive an “F” in any subject. When you need help, ask for it! We are here to help every student be successful. Mr. Dobis, head counselor, is an advocate for all students and is available for academic and general guidance. The teachers here at BBMS are special people who care about their students. Enjoy your time with them. All of us wish each and every student a successful and enjoyable year.

This booklet is a guide and reference to inform you of your rights and responsibilities when communicating with Big Bear Middle School Staff. Please read this booklet then sign the Signature page on the last page of this document and return the page to your homeroom teacher. We take the responsibility of educating your child very seriously. Please call us whenever you have questions and/or concerns. Let’s make it a great year or not the choice is yours!

Principal

General Information

Big Bear Middle School

P.O. Box 1607

41275 Big Bear Blvd.

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Principal

Ron Dobis

Counselor

School Office Hours 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Contact Information

School Office (909) 866-4634

School Fax (909) 866-5679

School Closure ext. 801

School Web Site: www.bbms.bearvalleyusd.org

SNOW DAYS!!!

The Bear Valley Unified School District’s Superintendent, Transportation and Maintenance Supervisors will make a judgment regarding Snow Days by 5:30 a.m. as to whether buses can safely travel the routes. When this is determined, our School Information Line (866-4631 ext. 201) is updated with this information. You can also call the school phone number (above) and press 801 to hear our message about school closures. You may also listen to the local radio station KBHR (93 FM), KFRG (95.1 FM), KCAL (96.7 FM), KFI (640 AM) or watch TV6 for school closures.

Bear Valley Unified School District Office

42271 Moonridge Road

P. O. Box 1529

Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

(909) 866-4631

Mr. Kurt Madden

Superintendent of Schools

Walter Con Tina Fulmer Donald Scheerschmidt

Assistant Superintendent of Director of Personnel/ Director of

Business Services Educational Services Special Education

Board of Trustees

Mrs. Beverly Grabe, Governing Board Member

Mr. Randy Putz, Governing Board Member

Dr. Ken Turney, Governing Board Member

Dr. Al Waner, President

Mr. Paul Zamoyta, Clerk

All Schools in Bear Valley Unified School District

Baldwin Lane Elementary Grades K-6 585-7766

Big Bear Elementary Grades K-6 866-4638

North Shore Elementary Grades K-6 866-7501

Fallsvale Grades K-6 794-8630

Big Bear Middle School Grades 7-8 866-4634

Big Bear High School Grades 9-12 585-6892

Chautauqua High School Grades 9-12 585-2521

Educate-Inspire-Prepare

BIG BEAR MIDDLE SCHOOL

Staff List

Principal Counselor

Dena Arbaugh Ron Dobis

Teachers Classified Support Staff

Mary Bradford Marianne Albright

Suzy Carpenter Sandra Dehne

Eduardo DeAnda Alan Herendich

Lisa Effron Lindsay Johnson

Steven Ellis Jamie Kirksey

Jim Fipps Mike Klein

Jeff Koza

Nate Haston Melanie Martinez

Susi Hiett Kayla Martinez

Bo Kent Keith Moore

Ann Licona Connie Sexton

Jennie McCoy Annette Sipes

Sharon Meagher Grace Stapko

Susie Oberneder Janis Thompson

Jason Schetter Maureen Wheeler

Kelley Schetter Rhonda Wijnhamer Tracy Tokunaga

To contact staff by email, i.e., grace_stapko@bearvalleyusd.org

Big Bear Middle School

“Make it a great day or not, the choice is yours…”

Vision Statement

Big Bear Middle School is a place where the staff supports students to achieve the standards, live up to their individual potential, appreciate life, and meet the challenges of the world in a safe, positive environment characterized by mutual respect and equal opportunity for all.

Mission Statement

Embracing the nature of adolescents, the mission of Big Bear Middle School is to educate our students to achieve the standards and be productive citizens.

Our Core Beliefs

Students are our first priority.
Adults make a difference in the life of a child, and all students benefit from family and community support.
A clear and consistent understanding of high expectations improves student performance and behavior.
Our teachers use a variety of instructional strategies, aligned with grade-level standards, to ensure our students experience a challenging academic program.

Upon promotion from BBMS, our goal is for every student to be able to …

Meet grade level standards in all subjects.
Achieve workplace competencies.
Use a variety of analytical and creative thinking skills to make decisions, solve problems, and continue on a path of life-long learning.
Use technology intelligently and efficiently.
Display responsibility, self-esteem, emotional intelligence, self-discipline, and integrity.
Maintain physical fitness and good health.

T.E.A.M. = Together Everyone Achieves More

Partners in Learning

At Big Bear Middle School we know children learn from adults and that encouragement, positive support, and a wholesome, nurturing environment are critical to the healthy development of every child. We are committed to working together, with each of us doing our best to promote every student‘s achievement.

As a student I pledge to:

• Work as hard as I can on my school assignments and turn them in on time.

• Tell my parents what I am learning in school.

• Ask my teacher for help when I don’t understand something.

• Follow school’s school rules.

• Be aware of my current grades.

As a parent I pledge to:

• Provide a quiet study time at home and encourage good study habits.

•Encourage proper nutrition and good attendance.

• Talk with my child about his/her activities every day.

• Know how my child is progressing by attending conferences, looking at schoolwork, checking grades online*, talking to the teacher, and being involved with the school. Parents are encouraged to visit and assist in the classroom.

• Participate in decisions that affect my child’s education. **

Computers are available at school to look up grades if there is no Internet at home.
Internet grades: go to our website, bbms.bearvalleyusd.org then look for Infinite Campus

Student’s user # is the student ID number and the password is first, last initials, and birthdate, i.e. js010197

As a teacher I pledge to:

• Provide motivating and interesting learning experiences in my classroom.

• Explain my goals, expectations, and grading system to students and parents.

• Find out what teaching methods and materials work best for each student.

• Explain the school rules to students and parents.

• Enter grades in a timely manner.

• Work with parents to ensure their child’s educational success.

As a principal I pledge to:

• Create a welcoming and positive learning environment at our school.

• Ensure a safe and orderly learning environment.

• Support the partnership between parent, student, and staff.

• Encourage parents to be involved in decisions that affect their child’s education. **

• Provide appropriate in-service and training for teacher and for parents.

We promise to work together to help each other carry out this agreement.

**This also could include participation in a variety of activities and decision-making processes at the site and district level.

Adopted by School Site Council

Student Outcomes

Outcomes	Performance Indicators
Students will develop workplace competencies.	Students will have an awareness of time and the ability to follow a personal schedule. Students will demonstrate multicultural sensitivity. Students will respect authority, respect others, respect self and will display courtesy, manners and integrity. Students will have the ability to work cooperatively. Students will develop portfolios of work/projects to share as a way to measure progress. Students will know how to find and use available technological resources. Students will be introduced to a variety of careers in an effort to enhance a school to work program.
Students will be able to perform basic skills: read, write, listen, speak, and perform arithmetic and mathematical operations.	Students will listen well. Students will use mathematics, including algebra, to solve everyday problems. Students will read and write at the 8^th grade level or higher when they leave BBMS.
Students will be able to use a variety of analytical and creative thinking skills to make decisions, solve problems, and continue on a path of life-long learning.	Students will know and use good study habits. Students will develop portfolios of work/projects to share as a way to measure progress. Students will know and be able to write their full legal name, date, and place of birth on a resume. Students will develop learning skills. Students will be given the opportunity to participate in and be exposed to visual and performing arts in the educational setting.
Students will display responsibility, self -esteem, emotional intelligence, self-discipline, and integrity.	Students will demonstrate pride in their school. Students will understand the influences of peer pressure and make informed, positive decisions. Students will demonstrate basic ethics and possess a strong conviction of values. Students will set and re-evaluate short- and long-term goals. Students will demonstrate an eagerness to learn, with a positive, persistent attitude. Students will maintain prompt and regular attendance. New students will be made to feel welcome and comfortable.
Students will maintain physical fitness and good health.	Students will pass a basic physical fitness test. Students will assess their own fitness level, then set obtainable fitness goals and measure their progress at each semester. Students will be exposed to/participate in team sports.

Student Rights and Obligations

RESPONSIBILITIES OF MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT

These student standards are established to maintain a focus on learning activities and to maintain a safe and orderly school environment for all. By definition in the California Education Code, school rules apply at school, at lunch (whether on or off campus), and while attending or going to or coming from school or school activities, including walking to and from bus stops. Big Bear Middle School emphasizes that students must develop appropriate social skills and maintain appropriate behavior standards for a school and work environment.

Citizenship grades are issued to each student based upon his or her conduct. These citizenship grades determine eligibility to participate in after school activities, such as sports, dances, and special school time activities. Citizenship grades will help determine student participation in end of the year activities. Students who receive more than 2 suspensions in a year are automatically ineligible for the remainder of the year and are ineligible to participate in any end-of-the-year activities.

DRESS CODE – EC 35183

Education Code 35183 authorizes school districts to adopt dress codes.

Shoes will be worn at all times. A substantial sole is required and enclosed toe and heel footwear is highly encouraged. Slippers or other footwear without soles are considered inappropriate. Sneaker skates are not allowed.
Extremely brief garments that are a distraction to the educational environment are not appropriate. Clothing shall be sufficient to conceal undergarments at all times. Strapless, spaghetti straps tops or dresses, bare midriff shirts, tops with plunging necklines, tube tops, swimsuit tops, halter-tops, off the shoulder or backless tops, razorback tops, sheer tops (showing undergarments) are not appropriate at school. No part of the stomach or back may show.
Shorts and skirts must be fitted at the waist or upper hip, must not reveal underclothing, and must be appropriate and modest in length.
Slacks/Jeans should be kept in good repair, (must have dark color tights if holes or tears are above mid-thigh). Loose pants must be held up by a belt. No undergarments will be allowed to show, including shorts worn as an undergarment.
Pajamas and house slippers are not acceptable.
Clothing or accessories shall be free of writing, pictures, or any other insignia which are crude, violent, obscene or sexually suggestive or which advocate racial, ethnic, religious, or other prejudice or the use of tobacco, drugs or alcohol.
Earrings, jewelry, or accessories (wallet chains), which present a safety hazard to the wearer or others, are not suitable for school wear.
Identified gang attire such as bandannas, haircuts or hair rollers, or any gang paraphernalia are prohibited.
Only prescription sunglasses may be worn in class. Other types of sunglasses may be worn on campus outside of class.
Hair must be well groomed. Extreme hairstyles and fads that would interfere with the learning process, cause a disruption of the educational environment, or be a health or safety hazard are prohibited.
Formal attire for dances must comply with the regular dress code.

If student’s appearance is deemed to be inappropriate, immodest or distracting by the school administration, the student will be asked to call home to rectify the situation, or change into his/her PE uniform. Repeated offences or failure to comply will be considered an act of defiance.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION UNIFORM POLICY – BP 6142

Bottom of Form

The Board of Trustees recognizes the positive benefits of physical activity on student health and academic achievement. The district shall provide all students the opportunity to be physically active on a regular basis through high-quality physical education instruction and may provide additional opportunities for physical activity throughout the school day. The district’s physical education and activity programs shall support the district’s coordinated student wellness program and encourages students’ lifelong fitness. Proper dress is required to participate in Physical Education to allow the students to participate in a safe, non-constricting, and inexpensive way. First and last names must be PROMINENTLY printed on all gym clothes. Gym clothes are available for purchase from the PE department. Proper dress consists of the following:

Black athletic short.
BBMS PE t-shirt or plain white, red, black or gray t-shirt.
Athletic socks, separate from school clothing.
Athletic shoes (soft soled, non-marking shoes), that are secured to the feet.
Pants in school colors (red, black, white) are recommended during colder weather.
Please, Remove jewelry for safety.
Alternative clothing requires PE teacher preapproval.
Students are issued a school lock for their PE lockers at the beginning of the school year. If the lock is lost, stolen, or damaged, the student will be charged $10.00 and issued a new lock.

Although the non-suit policy starts over with each grading period, continued failure to suit out for P.E. may result in further disciplinary action, up to and including, suspension for habitual defiance.

ACADEMIC & CITIZENSHIP ELIGIBILITY STANDARDS BP 5121, BP 5020, ED 49066

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

The Board of Trustees believes that grades serve a valuable instructional purpose by helping students and parents/guardians identify the student’s areas of strength and those areas needing improvement. Parents/guardians and students have the right to receive course grades that represent an accurate evaluation of the student’s achievement. The teacher of each course shall determine the student’s grade. The grade assigned by the teacher shall not be changed by the Board or the Superintendent except as provided by law, Board policy and administrative regulation. (Education Code 49066) All students who participate in extracurricular activities (sports, plays, and dances), will be required to achieve a 2.0 Grade Point Average and 2.0 Average on Citizenship Grade. Students must have a 2.0 average and no more than one F in their classes on the most recent progress report or report card to be eligible. Students who do not maintain eligibility will not be allowed to participate in extracurricular activities including being cut from sports teams during the season. More than 2 suspensions in one school year will result in the student being citizenship ineligible for the remainder of the year. Grade Point and Citizenship Average will be calculated on the basis of A=4; B=3; C=2; and D=1. When a Pass/Fail grade is given, a “Pass” grade will be counted as a C grade. A new eligibility period will begin with the beginning of each quarter.

CHEATING & PLAGIARISM BP 5131.9

Bottom of Form

The Board of Trustees believes that academic honesty and personal integrity are fundamental components of a student’s education and character development. The Board expects that students will not cheat, lie, plagiarize or commit other acts of academic dishonesty. Cheating on homework will result in the following consequences:

Work being confiscated and given to the appropriate teacher.
A Grade of “0” or “F” for the assignment. The teacher will notify the parent.
Citizenship grade being lowered one full grade for the first violation and to an “F” for the second violation.
Principal will intervene as the situation warrants. Interventions may include notification of teachers and disciplinary action.

Cheating on tests or major assignments (teacher will notify students of major assignments) will result in the following consequences:

Student receiving a “0” or “F” on the assignment or test. The teacher will notify the parents.
Citizenship grade being lowered to an “F” for that grading period.
Principal will intervene as the situation warrants. Interventions may include notification of teachers and disciplinary action.

HOMEWORK & MAKEUP WORK BP 6154

The Board of Trustees believes that homework serves many important purposes. The administration and certificated staff shall design homework plans and assignments so that through their homework, students can reinforce academic skills taught in school and learn how to conduct research effectively, develop ideas creatively, and become life-long learners.

The Board believes that homework is the responsibility of the student. It is the student’s job to develop regular study habits and to do most assignments independently. The Board encourages teachers at all grade levels to use parent/guardian as a contributing resource and to structure homework assignments so as to involve the parent/guardian without diminishing the student’s sense of responsibility. When assigning homework which involves interaction with parents/guardians, teachers should include instructions which show how parents/guardians can best help their children. To be effective, homework assignments should not place an undue burden on students and families. Homework should reinforce classroom learning objectives and be related to individual student needs and abilities. Make-Up Work Student shall be given the opportunity to make up school work missed because of an excused absence or suspension and shall receive full credit if the work is turned in according to a reasonable make-up schedule. Students who miss school work because of unexcused absences shall be given the opportunity to make up missed work. Teachers shall assign such make-up work as necessary to ensure academic progress, not as a punitive measure. In accordance with board policy, students at BBMS receive a minimum of four to six hours of homework per week. If your child is absent, please check for homework assignment with the teacher. Teachers can be reached by phone or email.

TEXTBOOKS – EC 35186

Every school must provide sufficient textbooks and instructional materials. Your student will receive textbooks at the beginning of the year. All students are responsible for the condition of all books checked out to them. These books must be turned in at the end of the school year or when your child leaves the middle school. Textbooks, with proper care, should last for seven years. Normal wear and tear on a textbook is to be expected, but unusual wear or damage, water damage, writing in book, ripped pages, mutilating it in any way, or if it is lost, will require your child to pay the replacement cost. Students who owe for books either lost, stolen or damaged will not be allowed to participate in any extra-curricular activities, nor will their grades be sent home or transferred to another school, if their fines have not been cleared. Textbooks are very expensive, please cover all books and help your child be responsible for their care.

FIELD TRIPS – BP 6153

Bottom of Form

The Board of Trustees recognizes that school-sponsored trips are important components of a student’s development. Besides supplementing and enriching classroom learning experiences, such trips encourage new interests among students, make them more aware of community resources, and help them relate their school experiences to the outside world. The Board believes that careful planning can greatly enhance the value and safety of such trips. From time to time trips to different locations are arranged for the purpose of providing students with first-hand experiences which are related to material studied in the classroom. All field trips are conducted in strict accordance with procedures set forth by the school district.

WORK PERMITS – AR 5113.2

Bottom of Form

Before accepting employment, a student under the age of 18 who is subject to the state’s compulsory attendance law, including students who have not yet graduated from high school or have not received a certificate of proficiency, must obtain a work permit. Big Bear Middle School students are required by Federal Law to have a work permit if they are employed. The school is the responsible agency for issuing these work permits. The school counselor will issue work permits to any student who is making appropriate progress within their school program. If the student has received an “F” on a report card, has less than a 2.0 grade point average, or is not making appropriate progress toward promotion, a work permit will not be issued or it can be revoked. Students must be academically and citizenship eligible to receive a work permit.

ELECTRONIC SIGNALING DEVICES – EC 48901.5

By policy or practice at Big Bear Middle School, we may regulate the right of students to possess or use electronic signaling devices, including cell phones and pagers, during the school day or at school functions. In the era of technological advances, it is common to use computers and other electronic devices to network and communicate. The district has a network use policy that states that computers and the school network will be used appropriately on campus, including any time on the internet. However, it needs to be noted that student’s communications off campus can also become a problem at school. If your student inappropriately uses computers, or other electronic devices at home to threaten, bully, sexually harass, or explicitly text, otherwise known as “sexting” other students and it becomes a disruption on campus, he/she will be disciplined at school. Before your student posts, texts, or comments, be sure he/she has read the following guidelines, as these “innocent” statements can affect them well into the future. Consider the following.

• The student can be suspended, expelled, and/or arrested for their comments.

• If sexual in nature, the student as well as his/her “friends” can be prosecuted for child pornography, requiring registration

as a “sex‐offender” for the rest of their lives.

• Once something is on the internet, or in cyberspace, there is no way to really destroy it.

• Is this something the student would want his/her parents, future employer, or future children to see?

• Many students, who are harassed, become seriously depressed and often commit suicide.

Big Bear Middle School takes this very seriously. If your student is being bullied, harassed, or threatened either in person, or

in cyberspace, contact an administrator and/or school safety officer on campus as soon as possible. Note: No student may be prohibited from possessing or using an electronic signaling device that is determined by a licensed physician to be essential for the health of the student and the use of which is limited to the student’s health. Cell Phones – The use of cell phones, pagers and similar devices, during instructional or class time, is prohibited at Big Bear Middle School (Bell to Bell No Cell), unless instructed by the teacher. If a staff member sees or hears a phone in a student’s possession during class, it will be confiscated and taken to the school office. The School will not investigate or be responsible for the loss or theft of any electronic devices.

STUDENT SEARCH & SEIZURE – BP 5145.12

Top of Form

Bottom of Form

The Board of Trustees is fully committed to promoting a safe learning environment and, to the fullest extent possible, eliminating the possession and use of weapons, illegal drugs, and other controlled substances by students on school premises and at school activities. As necessary to protect the health and welfare of students and staff, school officials may search students, their property, and/or district property under their control and may seize illegal, unsafe, or otherwise prohibited items. If a student has engaged in conduct that causes an administrator to have reasonable suspicion that the student has committed, or is about to commit, a crime or has violated statutory laws or school rules, the administrator may conduct a search of that student. The administrator must:

Be able to articulate the reason for his or her suspicion and the facts and/or circumstances surrounding a specific incident.
Be able to reasonably connect the student to a specific incident, crime, rule, or statute violation.
Have relied on recent, credible information from personal knowledge and/or other eyewitnesses.
Ensure that a search based on reasonable suspicion is not excessively intrusive in light of the student’s age and gender and the nature of the offense.

When conducting a student search based on reasonable suspicion, school officials must adhere to the following practices:

Conduct the search only if there are clear and specific reasons for suspicion and there are facts that connect the student to a specific incident of misconduct.
Jackets, purses, pockets, back packs, bags, and containers in the student’s possession may be searched to the extent

that is reasonably necessary.

Under no conditions may a body or strip search be conducted.
Only school officials of the same sex as the student being searched may conduct the search.
Searches based on reasonable suspicion must be conducted in a private area where the search will not be visible to other students or staff (except for a school administrator or designee witness).

SEARCH OF SCHOOL LOCKERS – BP 5145.12

School lockers remain the property of the Bear Valley Unified School District even when assigned to students. The lockers are subject to search whenever the District finds a need to do so. The use of the school locker for other than school‐related purposes is prohibited. Improper use of school lockers will result in discipline which may include, but not be limited to parent conference, loss of use of locker, and/or suspension, depending on the violation. Students are responsible for maintaining both the inside and the outside of their lockers this includes PE lockers. Writing, stickers, and paint are NOT allowed on lockers. Any damage to a locker will be charged to the student assigned to the locker. Student should never tell their combinations to any other person.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT – EC 48980(g)

Big Bear Middle School is committed to maintaining a learning and working environment that is free from sexual harassment.

Any student who engages in sexual harassment of anyone in or from the district may be subject to disciplinary action to and including expulsion. Any employee who permits, engages in, or fails to report sexual harassment shall be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT – STUDENTS – EC 48900.2,

The Board of Education of the Bear Valley Unified School District is committed to maintaining a learning environment free from harassment, intimidation or insult, student‐to‐student or adult‐to‐student, on the basis of an individual’s sex. Positive action will be taken to eliminate such practices and remedy their effects. California Education Code 48900.2, section 212.5 defines “sexual harassment” as verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:

1. Submission to the conduct is explicitly or implicitly made a term or a condition of an individual’s academic status, or

progress.

2. Submission to, or rejection of, the conduct by the individual is used as the basis of academic decisions affecting the

individual.

3. The conduct has the purpose or effect of having a negative impact upon the individual’s academic performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive learning environment.

4. Submission to, or rejection of, the conduct by the individual is used as the basis for any decision affecting the individual regarding benefits and services, honors, programs, or activities available at or through the educational institution.

For the purposes of this policy, and according to Education Code section 48900.2, the conduct described in section 212.5 must be considered, by a reasonable person of the same gender as the victim, to be sufficiently severe or pervasive to have a negative impact upon the individual’s academic performance or to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment. This policy shall apply to students in grades K through 12.

REPORTING SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Any student of the school district who believes that she or he has been the victim of sexual harassment is urged to bring the problem to the attention of the proper school authorities so that appropriate action may be taken to resolve the problem. Staff shall immediately, or within 24 hours, report complaints of sexual harassment to the principal or designee or to another district administrator. Staff shall similarly report any such incidents they may observe, even if the harassed student has not complained. A complaint of sexual harassment of a student by a district employee must also include a report of such allegations to the Superintendent/designee for appropriate investigation and action. When the complaint constitutes an allegation of child abuse or the Principal/ designee taking the complaint suspects that child abuse may have occurred, a report must be filed with the appropriate law enforcement/child protective agency as well.

INVESTIGATION OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT

The principal or designee shall immediately investigate any report of the sexual harassment of a student. Upon verifying that sexual harassment occurred, he/she shall ensure that appropriate action is promptly taken to end the harassment, address its effects on the person subjected to the harassment, and prevent any further instances of the harassment. In addition, the student may file a formal complaint with the Superintendent or designee in accordance with the district’s uniform complaint procedures.

CONFIDENTIALITY REQUIREMENT – ED CODE 48900(o)

The district prohibits retaliatory behavior against any complainant or any participant in the complaint process. Information related to a complaint of sexual harassment shall be confidential, and individuals involved in the investigation of such a complaint shall not discuss related information outside the investigation process.

DISCIPLINARY ACTION

Students who have been found to have sexually harassed other student(s) shall be subject to the following disciplinary consequences including, but not limited to:

(a) Disciplinary conferencing with the student and/or parent,

(b) Suspension and referral for counseling,

CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT REPORTING – PC 11164 et seq.

Staff of the Big Bear Middle School is required by law to report cases of child abuse and neglect whenever staff have a reasonable suspicion. Staff may not investigate to confirm the suspicion. Both the staff name and the report itself are confidential and cannot be disclosed except to authorized agencies.

HARM OR DESTRUCTION OF ANIMALS – EC 32255 et seq.

Any student with a moral objection to dissecting or otherwise harming or destroying an animal, or any part thereof, must inform his or her teacher of the objection. Objections must be substantiated by a note from the student’s parent or guardian. A student who chooses to refrain from participation in an education project involving the harmful or destructive use of an animal may receive an alternative education project, if the teacher believes that an adequate alternative education project is possible. The teacher may work with the student to develop and agree upon an alternative education project so that the student may obtain the knowledge, information, or experience required by the course of study in question.

PROMOTION REQUIREMENTS

(PLEASE READ THIS SECTION VERY CAREFULLY!)

In order to be promoted to the high school, to ninth grade, your student must have successfully earned 100 credits by the end of eighth grade. Students earn five credits per course based on their semester report cards. This means a possible 120 credits if students pass all six of their courses both semesters in both seventh and eighth grades. If they do not pass (receive an F grade) or if they fail both semesters of one class, they can attend summer school (if offered) to earn up to 10 credits at the end of each school year. If students do not have at least 100 credits at the end of eighth grade, they will be referred to administration to discuss recommendations for alternative placement. The superintendent or designee will be responsible for deciding whether the circumstances warrant an exception or modification of the criteria for Summer School (if offered.) Summer School (if offered) will be mandatory if a student fails both semesters of a core class which includes Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, and Science. Regular attendance will be required in order to attend the end-of-the-year activities. A letter describing these requirements in more detail will be sent home in the spring.

Credit Recovery is a BBMS course that is substituted when Summer School is not offered. Any student with an F may attend credit recovery. Credit Recovery is offered during each semester for eight Saturdays for 4 hours. Successful completion will regain five credits for the class that was failed, moving the F grade to a D/pass. There is a possibility that Credit Recovery will not be offered during the 2013-2014 school year.

Students with more than two suspensions are ineligible to participate in any end-of-the-year activities.

HIGHEST ACHIEVING STUDENTS

During the eighth grade promotion ceremony, the Highest Achieving Students will be identified and given a certificate of recognition. In order to be eligible for this recognition students must pass their Accelerated Reading semester goals and receive As on semester report cards in both seventh and eighth grades, be in attendance on the BBMS campus full time, and have completed Algebra 1 as eighth graders. Students who are eligible for the Highest Achieving Student recognition may prepare a speech to present to a panel that includes teachers, administration, and community members. The panel will choose three students to give their speeches at the promotion ceremony. All of the Highest Achieving Students will be recognized at the ceremony and be given a certificate, but only three will give speeches. If there are 3 or less students who are identified as Highest Achieving students, they will all be invited to speak.

PRESIDENTIAL ACADEMIC FITNESS AWARD

To be eligible for the Presidential Academic Fitness Award, a student must meet the following criteria:

Earn straight As on eighth grade report cards.
Earn straight As each semester report card in citizenship for their 8th grade year.
Be absent no more than 10 days of school for the entire year. (3 tardies = 1 absence for this award and these can be for class period tardies and early releases as well.)
Have no suspensions during the school year.

These academic honors will be presented each semester at our Awards Assembly:

High Honors: For any student who has earned a 4.0 grade point average or higher on that semester’s report card.
Honors: For any student who has earned a 3.5 to 3.99 grade point average on that semester’s report card.
Perfect Attendance(3 tardies = 1 absence for this award and these can be for class period tardies and early releases as well), straight As in Citizenship and students chosen for awards in their Core Classes.

Student Discipline: Suspension, Expulsion

STUDENT CONDUCT – EC 51100

Parents and guardians of students enrolled in public schools have the right and should have the opportunity, as mutually supportive and respectful partners in the education of their children, to be informed in advance about school rules, including disciplinary rules and procedures in accordance with Section 48980, attendance policies, dress codes, and procedures for visiting the school.

DUTIES OF STUDENTS – BP5131

Students shall conform to school regulations, obey all directions, be diligent in study and respectful to teachers and others in authority, and refrain from the use of profane and vulgar language. PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION (PDA) – BBMS students are expected to act within the boundaries of good taste while on campus or on school buses. Embracing, kissing, hand-holding, or other forms of personal affection are not acceptable at school. Students will be warned of the unacceptable behavior when noticed. Continued demonstration of this type of behavior will be considered defiance of authority and parents will be notified.

JURISDICTION – EC 44807

Students will be held accountable for their conduct on the way to and from school, on the playgrounds, or during break and lunch. Big Bear Middle School is committed to students adhering to the following:

Students will be on time to class and prepared to work and study.
Students will not disrupt the class.
Students will respect other people and their property.
Students will attend class.

General classroom management lies with the teacher. Teachers will determine discipline criteria for their classrooms. All teachers must and will uphold school-wide rules. Incentives and acknowledgments for satisfactory and appropriate behaviors will be established both school-wide and within individual classrooms. Inappropriate behaviors will be dealt with first by teachers. Chronic problems will result in parent notification and a parent conference. Further poor behavior will result in one or more of the following: timeouts, detention, office referral, Saturday School, suspension, student study team referral, and/or a modified schedule. Students will be sent to the office immediately if they have committed a suspendible offense or if their actions endanger themselves or others.

OUT OF CLASS CONDUCT

Halls

Students will not run in the halls.
No pushing in hallways or at drinking fountains.
Students will go directly to their classrooms during passing periods, after break, and after lunch. No wandering in the halls will be allowed.
During class time no students are to be out of class without a pass.
Students involved with morning announcements must have a pass.

Cafeteria/Quad

Keep voices at a quiet noise level.
Students will be excused from the cafeteria/quad when finished eating and the eating area is clean.
When excused, leave the cafeteria/quad and go outside.
No running, pushing, or cutting in line.

Field

Rough play is not permitted. Tackling or throwing anyone to the ground is considered rough play.
Equipment on the field is to be used as it is intended.
No Throwing snow, rocks, or any items will not be allowed at school or any school event and could result in a Saturday School.
Students are not to go to the office without a pass, except during the first five minutes of break or lunch, or in an emergency.

Students who violate school or out-of-class rules will be assigned a consequence proportional to the infraction and in accordance with the BBMS discipline matrix. Students who are suspended for verbal or physical altercations will be assigned to the Student Assistance Program Advisor. Habitual behavior issues can result in an alternative school placement.

NOTE: In the interest of student safety and campus security, the principal reserves the right to modify, add or delete school rules and/or consequences. Mutual combat or argument is defined as being involved in the combat, argument or pushing regardless of who started the altercation.

MANDATORY EXPULSION VIOLATIONS – EC 48915

Schools shall immediately suspend and recommend expulsion for students that commit any of the following acts at school or at a school activity off school grounds:

Possessing, selling, or otherwise furnishing a firearm.
Brandishing a knife at another person.
Unlawfully selling a controlled substance.
Committing or attempting to commit a sexual assault.
Possession of an explosive.

The school board shall order the student expelled upon finding that the student committed the act.

RULES AND REGULATIONS REGARDING DISCIPLINE ‐ EC 35291, 35291.5, 48900, 48904

The Governing Board of each school district shall prescribe rules not inconsistent with the laws of the State Board of Education. Each principal shall take steps to ensure that all rules pertaining to discipline of students are communicated to students at the beginning of each school year and to incoming students when they enroll.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE: SUSPENSION AND EXPULSION LAWS ‐ EC 48900

Education Code 48925 defines suspension, as the removal of a student from ongoing instruction for adjustment purposes.

EC 48900—Grounds for Suspension and Expulsion: A student shall not be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion, unless the superintendent or the principal of the school in which the student is enrolled determines that the student has committed an act as defined pursuant to any of subdivisions (a) to (r), inclusive:

a) (1) Caused, attempted to cause, or threatened to cause physical injury to another person;

(2) Willfully used force or violence upon the person of another, except in self‐defense.

(b) Possessed, sold, or furnished any firearm, knife, dangerous object, or explosive.

(c) Unlawfully possessed, used, sold, or otherwise furnished, or been under the influence of, a controlled substance, an alcoholic beverage, or an intoxicant of any kind.

(d) Unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell a controlled substance, an alcoholic beverage, or an intoxicant of any kind, and either sold, delivered, or otherwise furnished to a person another liquid, substance, or material and represented the liquid, substance, or material as a controlled substance, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant.

(e) Committed or attempted to commit robbery or extortion.

(f) Caused or attempted to cause damage to school property or private property.

(g) Stole or attempted to steal school property or private property.

(h) Possessed or used tobacco, or products containing tobacco or nicotine products, including, but not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, miniature cigars, clove cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew packets, and betel. However, this section does not prohibit use or possession by a pupil of his or her own prescription products.

(i) Committed an obscene act or engaged in habitual profanity or vulgarity.

(j) Unlawfully possessed or unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell drug paraphernalia.

(k) Disrupted school activities or otherwise willfully defied the valid authority of supervisors, teachers, administrators, school officials, or other school personnel engaged in the performance of their duties.

(l) Knowingly received stolen school property or private property.

(m) Possessed an imitation firearm. As used in this section, “imitation firearm” means a replica of a firearm that is so substantially similar in physical properties to an existing firearm as to lead a reasonable person to conclude that the replica is a firearm.

(n) Committed or attempted to commit a sexual assault as defined in Section 261, 266c, 286, 288, 288a, or 289 of the Penal Code or committed a sexual battery as defined in Section 243.4 of the Penal Code.

(o) Harassed, threatened, or intimidated a student who is a complaining witness or a witness in a school disciplinary proceeding for the purpose of either preventing that student from being a witness or retaliating against that student for being a witness, or both.

(p) Unlawfully offered, arranged to sell, negotiated to sell, or sold the prescription drug Soma.

(q) Engaged in, or attempted to engage in, hazing. For purposes of this subdivision, “hazing” means a method of initiation or pre‐initiation into a student organization or body, whether or not the organization or body is officially recognized by an educational institution, which is likely to cause serious bodily injury or personal degradation or disgrace resulting in physical or mental harm to a former, current, or prospective student. For purposes of this subdivision, “hazing” does not include athletic events or school‐sanctioned events.

(r) Engaged in an act of bullying. For purposes of this subdivision, the following terms have the following meanings:

1) “Bullying” means any severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including communications made in writing or by means of an electronic act, and including one or more acts committed by a student or group of students as defined in Section 48900.2,48900.3, or 48900.4, directed toward one or more students that has or can be reasonably predicted to have the effect of one or more of the following:

a. Placing a reasonable student or students in fear of harm to that student’s or those students’ person or property.

b. Causing a reasonable student to experience a substantially detrimental effect to his or her physical or mental health.

c. Causing a reasonable student to experience substantial interference with his or her academic performance.

d. Causing a reasonable student to experience substantial interference with his or her ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by a school.

(2) “Electronic act” means the transmission of a communication, including, but not limited to, a message, text, sound, or image, or a post on a social network Internet Web site, by means of an electronic device, including, but not limited to, a telephone, wireless telephone or other wireless communication device, computer, or pager.

(3) “Reasonable student” means a student, including but not limited to, an exceptional needs student, who exercises average care, skill, and judgment in conduct for a person of his or her age, or for a person of his or her age with his or her exceptional needs.

(s) A student shall not be suspended or expelled for any of the acts enumerated in this section, unless that act is related to school activity or school attendance occurring within a school under the jurisdiction of the superintendent of the school district or principal or occurring within any other school district. A student may be suspended or expelled for acts that are enumerated in this section and related to school activity or attendance that occur at any time, including, but not limited to, any of the following:

1. While on school grounds.

2. While going to or coming from school.

3. During the lunch period whether on or off the campus.

4. During, or while going to or coming from, a school sponsored activity.

(t) A student who aids or abets, as defined in Section 31 of the Penal Code, the infliction or attempted infliction of physical injury to another person may be subject to suspension, but not expulsion, pursuant to this section, except that a student who has been adjudged by a juvenile court to have committed, as an aider and abettor, a crime of physical violence in which the victim suffered great bodily injury or serious bodily injury shall be subject to discipline pursuant to subdivision (a).

(u) As used in this section, “school property” includes, but is not limited to, electronic files and databases.

(v) A superintendent of the school district or principal may use his or her discretion to provide alternatives to suspension or expulsion, including, but not limited to, counseling and an anger management program, for a student subject to discipline under this section.

It is the intent of the Legislature that alternatives to suspension or expulsion be imposed against a student who is truant, tardy, or otherwise absent from school activities.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT – EC 48900.2

In addition to the reasons specified in Section 24900, a student may be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion if the superintendent or the principal of the school in which the student is enrolled determined that the student has committed sexual harassment as defined in Education Code 212.5. For the purposes of this chapter, the conduct described in Section 212.5 must be considered by a reasonable person of the same gender as the victim to be sufficiently severe or pervasive to have a negative impact upon the individual’s academic performance or to create an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment.

HATE VIOLENCE – EC 48900.3

In addition to the reasons set forth in Sections 48900 and 48900.2, a student in any of grades 4 to 12, inclusive, may be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion if the superintendent or the principal of the school in which the student is enrolled determines that the student has caused, attempted to cause, threatened to cause, or participated in an act of hate violence, as defined in subdivision (e) of Section 233

HARASSMENT, THREATS, OR INTIMIDATION – EC 48900.4

In addition to the grounds specified in Sections 48900 and 48900.2, a student enrolled in any of grades 4 to 12, inclusive, may be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion if the superintendent or the principal of the school in which the student is enrolled determines that the student has intentionally engaged in harassment, threats, or intimidation, directed against school district personnel or students, that is sufficiently severe or pervasive to have the actual and reasonably expected effect of materially disrupting classwork, creating substantial disorder, and invading the rights of either school personnel or students by creating an intimidating or hostile educational environment.

LIMITATIONS ON IMPOSING SUSPENSION – EC 48900.5

Suspension shall be imposed only when other means of correction fail to bring about proper conduct. However, a student, including an individual with exceptional needs, as defined in Section 56026, may be suspended for any of the reasons enumerated in Section 48900 upon a first offense, if the principal or superintendent of schools determines that the student violated subdivision (a), (b), (c), (d), or (e) of Section 48900 or that the student’s presence causes a danger to persons or property or threatens to disrupt the instructional process.

TERROISTIC THREATS – EC 48900.7

(a) In addition to the reasons specified in Sections 48900, 48900.2, 48900.3, and 48900.4, a student may be suspended from school or recommended for expulsion if the superintendent or the principal of the school in which the student is enrolled determines that the student has made terroristic threats against school officials or school property, or both.

(b) For the purposes of this section, “terroristic threat” shall include any statement, whether written or oral, by a person who willfully threatens to commit a crime which will result in death, great bodily injury to another person, or property damage in excess of one thousand dollars ($1, 000), with the specific intent that the statement is to be taken as a threat, even if there is no intent of actually carrying it out, which, on its face and under the circumstances in which it is made, is so unequivocal, unconditional, immediate, and specific as to convey to the person threatened, a gravity of purpose and an immediate prospect of execution of the threat, and thereby causes that person reasonably to be in sustained fear for his or her own safety or for his or her immediate family’s safety, or for the protection of school district property, or the personal property of the person threatened or his or her immediate family.

CIRCUMSTANCES FOR RECOMMENDING EXPULSION – EC 48915

(a) Except as provided in subdivisions (c) and (e), the principal or the superintendent of schools shall recommend the expulsion of a student for any of the following acts committed at school or at a school activity off school grounds, unless the principal or superintendent finds that expulsion is inappropriate, due to the particular circumstance:

1. Causing serious physical injury to another person, except in self‐defense.

2. Possession of any knife or other dangerous object of no reasonable use to the student.

3. Unlawful possession of any controlled substance listed in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 11053) of Division 10 of the Health and Safety Code, except for the first offense for the possession of not more than one avoirdupois ounce of marijuana, other than concentrated cannabis.

4. Robbery or extortion.

5. Assault or battery, as defined in Sections 240 and 242 of the Penal Code, upon any school employee.

(b) Upon recommendation by the principal, superintendent of schools, or by a hearing officer or administrative panel appointed pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 48918, the governing board may order a student expelled upon finding that the student committed an act listed in subdivision (a) or in subdivision (a), (b), (c), (d), or (e) of Section 48900. A decision to expel shall be based on a finding of one or both of the following:

1. Other means of correction are not feasible or have repeatedly failed to bring about proper conduct.

2. Due to the nature of the act, the presence of the student causes a continuing danger to the physical safety of the pupil or others.

(c) The principal or superintendent of schools shall immediately suspend, pursuant to Section 48911, and shall recommend expulsion of a student that he or she determines has committed any of the following acts at school or at a school activity off school grounds:

1. Possessing, selling, or otherwise furnishing a firearm. This subdivision does not apply to an act of possessing a firearm if the student had obtained prior written permission to possess the firearm from a certificated school employee, which is concurred in by the principal or the designee of the principal. This subdivision applies to an act of possessing a firearm only if the possession is verified by an employee of a school district.

2. Brandishing a knife at another person.

3. Unlawfully selling a controlled substance listed in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 11053) of Division 10 of the Health and Safety Code.

4. Committing or attempting to commit a sexual assault as defined in subdivision (n) of Section 48900 or committing a sexual battery as defined in subdivision (n) of Section 48900.

5. Possession of an explosive.

(d) The governing board shall order a student expelled upon finding that the student committed an act listed in subdivision (c), and shall refer that student to a program of study that meets all of the following conditions:

1. Is appropriately prepared to accommodate students who exhibit discipline problems.

2. Is not provided at a comprehensive middle, junior, or senior high school, or at any elementary school.

3. Is not housed at the school site attended by the student at the time of suspension.

(e) Upon recommendation by the principal, superintendent of schools, or by a hearing officer or administrative panel appointed pursuant to subdivision (d) of Section 48918, the governing board may order a student expelled upon finding that the student, at school or at a school activity off of school grounds violated subdivision (f), (g), (h), (i), (j), (k), (l), or (m) of Section 48900, or Section 48900.2, 48900.3, or 48900.4, and either of the following:

1. That other means of correction are not feasible or have repeatedly failed to bring about proper conduct.

2. That due to the nature of the violation, the presence of the student causes a continuing danger to the physical safety of the student or others.

(f) The governing board shall refer student who has been expelled pursuant to subdivision (b) or (e) to a program of study which meets all of the conditions specified in subdivision (d). Notwithstanding this subdivision, with respect to a student expelled pursuant to subdivision (e), if the county superintendent of schools certifies that an alternative program of study is not available at a site away from a comprehensive middle, junior, or senior high school, or an elementary school, and that the only option for placement is at another comprehensive middle, junior, or senior high school, or another elementary school, the student may be referred to a program of study that is provided at a comprehensive middle, junior, or senior high school, or at an elementary school. (g) As used in this section, “knife” means any dirk, dagger, or other weapon with a fixed, sharpened blade fitted primarily for stabbing, a weapon with a blade fitted primarily for stabbing, a weapon with a blade longer than 3½ inches, a folding knife with a blade that locks into place, or a razor with an unguarded blade.(h) As used in this section, the term “explosive” means “destructive device” as described in Section 921 of Title 18 of the United States Code.

IMITATION FIREARM – PC 12550, 12556

A BB device can be considered an imitation firearm. The Penal Code makes it a criminal offense to openly display or expose any imitation firearm in a public place, including a public school.

LASER POINTER – PC 417.27

It is a crime for any student to possess a laser pointer on any elementary or secondary school premise, unless the possession is for a valid instructional or other school‐related purpose.

STUDENT DISCIPLINE: DUTY CONCERNING CONDUCT OF STUDENT – EC 44807

Education Code 44807 states that every teacher in the public schools shall hold students to a strict account for their conduct on the way to and from school, on the playgrounds, or during recess. A teacher, vice principal, or any other certificated employee of a school district, shall not be subject to criminal prosecution or criminal penalties for the exercise, during the performance of his/her duties of the same degree of physical control over a student that a parent would be legally privileged to exercise but which in no event shall exceed the amount of physical control reasonably necessary to maintain order, protect property, or protect the health and safety of students, or to maintain proper and appropriate conditions conductive to learning. The provisions of this section are in addition to and do not supersede the provision of Section 48900.

REQUIREMENT OF PARENT/GUARDIAN: SCHOOL ATTENDANCE – EC 48900.1

Teachers may require the parent or guardian of a student who has been suspended by a teacher to attend a portion of that school day in his or her student’s classroom. The attendance of the parent or guardian will be limited to the class from which the student was suspended. A written notice will be sent to the parent or guardian regarding implementation of this requirement. Employers are not allowed to apply sanctions against the parent or guardian for this requirement if the parent or guardian has given reasonable notice to his/her employer.

BBMS Programs

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES

A variety of services are available to help students have a successful experience. These services are coordinated through the Head Counselor Ron Dobis. Please feel free to contact Ron Dobis to address any concerns or questions.

BEAR VALLEY HEALTHY START

Mission Statement: Bear Valley Healthy Start is a community collaborative that is committed to improving student and family success at home, at school and in society by maximizing access to community resources. Health Aides at each school ensure that children are well cared for on campus. Health Aides contact parents in case of injury or illness and dispense medicines to students as needed. A Healthy Start advisor is available at Big Bear Middle School 3 days per week to provide individual and small group support for students who are having difficulty succeeding in school. Family Advisors offer assistance in dealing with loss and grief, development of social skills and peer relations and handling feelings appropriately. A permission slip must be signed by the parent/guardian for students to meet with her. These slips are available in the school office. Healthy Start advisors collaborate with local service agencies and organizations and can link families to needed services including health care, family support services and mental health programs.

SAP (Student Assistance Programs)

Big Bear Middle School Student Assistance Programs (SAP) provides services for students designed to eliminate barriers to academic and personal success. Some of the support SAP is providing includes anti-bullying programs such as Safe School Ambassadors and PeaceBuilder clubs/activities. Also offered are after school workshops aimed at teaching effective strategies for conflict resolution. Classroom presentations, small group activities and individual guidance provide drug education and social skills learning. These programs are funded by Soroptomist International as part of their “Stop Teen Violence” campaign. Melanie Martinez is the SAP advisor and is on campus 4-5 days a week.

SEVENTH GRADE “TRANSITIONS” ELECTIVE

The purpose of this first semester seventh grade class is to support students as they make the transition from elementary school to the secondary level. In this class, the teacher will aid the student in being prepared and organized for their core classes. There can be homework assistance and the student will be shown how to look up their grades and assignments online. The required Drug Education and Family Life curriculum will be presented during this semester. At the end of the first semester, those students who have shown the ability to be successful in seventh grade may be moved into another elective of their choice.

ENRICHMENT/G.A.T.E.

Students who met the criteria for the states Gifted and Talented Education (G.A.T.E.) program or who qualify for the Middle School’s Enrichment program will receive differentiated instruction on an on-going basis. After school enrichment classes are available throughout the year. Schedules are available in the office at the time the enrichment classes are offered.

SCHOOL SITE COUNCIL

The School Site Council, consisting of parents, students and staff, meets to review program strengths and needs and to make recommendations to the school principal about program modification and improvement. If you are interested in serving on the council or in attending meetings, notify the principal’s secretary at the beginning of the school year.

HOMEWORK CLUB

We offer an afterschool program called Homework Club. This is offered almost Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday after school from 2:00 – 3:15 and all students, both 7^th and 8^th grade are encouraged to use this program. No sign up is needed, they just need to go to the classroom where this club is offered. Parents need to arrange picking up students as there are no buses for after school programs.

REQUIRED INSTRUCTION IN DRUG EDUCATION ‐ EC 51202, 51203

Big Bear Middle School Science/Health course of study for grades 7 includes instruction on drug education with a particular

emphasis on the harmful effects upon the human body in the use of tobacco, alcohol, narcotics, restricted drugs, and other dangerous substances. Information is sent home to parent/guardian at the time these classes are being offered.

E.L.D. (English Language Development)

We provide English Language Development classes for students who are learning English as an additional language.

ACCELERATED READER

BBMS participates in the Accelerated Reader program. A letter from the English/Language Arts department describing the program is sent home at the beginning of the year.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Some student’s perceptual operations and/or processing abilities make learning more difficult for them. Special Education programs are available at the Middle School to students who have an identifiable learning disability. This disability is recognized through an assessment conducted by our school psychologist, with additional information provided by the classroom teacher. Students who qualify for Special Education services may receive a range of assistance consisting of Speech or Language therapy on an occasional basis, to daily assistance with our Resource Specialist in math, reading, and language, to a full-time program in the Special Day Class.

INDEPENDENT STUDY

Independent Study will be issued for students who need to be absent from school for five to ten days. Independent Study must be requested in writing five school days prior to the absence. Teachers will be notified in writing and will be asked to give work to the student. The student will not be counted absent provided the independent study contract is fulfilled and all work is turned in. Upon the student’s return, he/she should go to the office with all work to be photo copied. If the work is not received in the office, no credit will be given to the student, and all absences will be unexcused. Contact the school attendance clerk for further information.

SATURDAY ACADEMY

In an effort to both recapture lost instruction and attendance revenue for our school district, Big Bear Middle School offers “Saturday Academies” throughout the year. The only requirement a student needs to qualify for the Saturday Academies is at least one absence (suspension absences cannot be made up). Once the Saturday Academy is completed, the absence will be credited back to the student and the school.

DETENTION

Students may be assigned after school detention at the discretion of the principal or his designee. With parent notification they will be expected to serve detention. Detention may also be run by individual teachers for those students violating classroom rules or procedures. Teachers will notify you when your child is expected to serve this type of detention.

SATURDAY SCHOOL GUIDELINES FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS

Saturday School is a program designed to give students an alternative to suspension. The rationale is that it is often better for the student to be in class than missing an entire school day because of punishment. However, as Saturday School is in lieu of suspension, strict guidelines are to be followed.

GUIDELINES FOR SATURDAY SCHOOL:

Students must report to the front door of the assigned campus on time. To insure the security of the school and students, the door will be locked promptly. Failure to be there before the door is locked will give the student an unexcused absence from Saturday School.
Other Unexcused Absences:
- Failure to have a parent notify the principal or counselor by phone that an absence is inevitable — this must be done by 2:30 p.m. on the Friday before the assigned Saturday School (866-4634).
- Not bringing books and/or supplies adequate for four hours of work. Instruction will be given to students and they need to be prepared with the appropriate materials in which to finish their work.
- Being asked to leave the room at any time for talking, sending signals, writing notes or any other kind of misbehavior.
- Returning late from break.
An unexcused absence from Saturday School will result in suspension from Big Bear Middle School.
Students must remain the entire four hours. There will be a break during the morning. Students must remain on campus during this break. Lunch is provided.

OPERATION CLEANSWEEP

The Bear Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees has approved and adopted the Operation CleanSWEEP program for BBMS, Big Bear High School, and Chautauqua High School. At BBMS, we recognize that this program will not negatively affect the vast majority of our students, as most of our students do not commit the following offenses. However, it is important to communicate this to all students and parents so there is no confusion. It is also important for students and parents to know that school rules and consequences remain in place and that Operation CleanSWEEP is in addition to existing rules and consequences, NOT in lieu of them. In the years that Operation CleanSWEEP has been in effect, there has been a substantial drop in crime on every campus where it is utilized. The increased cooperation and partnership between all of the agencies involved has resulted in both students and administration at these schools reporting that overall they feel their campus has a safer learning and living environment.

You are on a CleanSWEEP campus. If you engage in any of the following activities, you may receive a ticket that will land you in Juvenile Traffic Court. Listed are violations and possible judgments (fines). Others might be imposed at the discretion of the judge.

Code Violation Possible Fines

PC308 Smoking or tobacco products “Smokeless Saturday”

(Includes pipes, papers, Skoal, etc.) Up to $75.00/30 hrs CS*

—————————————————————————————————-

PC415 Fighting or disturbing the peace “Anger Management”

(Includes challenging, gestures, etc.) Up to $400.00

—————————————————————————————————-

PC374.4 Littering Community Service

(Even if you clean up your mess) $100.00 to $750.00

—————————————————————————————————-

BP25662 Minor possesses alcohol Alcohol/Drug Diversion

(Any person under 18 years old) Up to $250.00/DL suspension**

—————————————————————————————————-

PC488 Petty theft Community Service

(Take anything not yours) Up to $1,000.00

—————————————————————————————————-

PC647F Under the influence Alcohol/Drug Diversion

(Alcohol or marijuana) Up to $1,000.00/DL suspension

—————————————————————————————————-

PC594a Vandalism Community Service

Up to $50,000.00

—————————————————————————————————-

PC594a(1) Minor posseses aerosol paint can Community Service

Up to $1,000.00

—————————————————————————————————-

PC594.2a Minor posseses graffiti tools Community Service

(Markers, paint tips, etc.) Up to $1,000.00

—————————————————————————————————-

PC640.6 Affix graffiti Up to 200 hours CS

(Any tagging, gang related or not) Up to $1,000.00/DL suspension

—————————————————————————————————-

HS11357e Possesses less than 1 oz. marijuana $250.00 to $500.00/DL suspension

—————————————————————————————————-

*Community Service **Automatic Driver’s License Suspension

If you have any questions, contact your principal, counselor, or probation officer. Be part of the solution! Make this a safe campus for everyone!

Extra Curricular Activities

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

The following are additional extra-curricular activities available to Big Bear Middle School students:

Basketball Cross Country Enrichment Classes Golf Team Dances Performance

Lunch League Sports Soccer Volleyball Wrestling Interact

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

All students who participate in extracurricular activities (sports, plays, and dances), will be required to achieve a 2.0 Grade Point Average and 2.0 Average on Citizenship Grade. Students must have a 2.0 average and no more than one F in their classes on the most recent progress report or report card to be eligible. Students who do not maintain eligibility will not be allowed to participate in extracurricular activities including being cut from sports teams during the season. Grade Point and Citizenship Average will be calculated on the basis of A=4; B=3; C=2; and D=1. When a Pass/Fail grade is given, a “Pass” grade will be counted as a C grade. A new eligibility period will begin with the beginning of each quarter.

Athletics

CLEARANCE/PARTICIPATION PACKET: a physical form that must be returned, stamped and signed by a M.D or DO (please note that physicals performed by chiropractors will not be accepted), a medical emergency information sheet, a proof of medical insurance, and a signed student and parent code of conduct. The completed Athletic Clearance/Participation Packet must be submitted to your respective school’s Athletic Director, coach, or school office prior to your first day of tryouts. There are no exceptions. All student-athletes must have insurance coverage to participate in athletics.

TEAM RULES

Team rules require the athlete’s compliance with the established team rules, procedures, and instructions of the coach. Coaches have the authority to suspend an athlete temporarily from the team for failure to comply with rules and procedures, or when the athlete’s safety or safety of others requires such action. Permanent removal from the team may occur after consultation with the site Athletic Director and the site administrator.

ATTENDANCE

In order to participate in an athletic event, a student must have attended a minimum of four hours of instruction (or four periods on a minimum day) on the day of the event. If a student has a medical appointment on the day of an event, a note of

verification must be presented to the coach. A student serving an official suspension from school on a given day is ineligible to participate in any extra-curricular activity on that day, which includes practices and/or games. It is the policy of BBMS that

suspended students may not participate in, nor be in attendance at, any school related activity during the time of the suspension. If student-athletes will be missing class time to travel to or participate in an athletic event, it is the responsibility of the student-athlete to make up all missed work.

PRACTICES

Practice times are determined by the coaches and facility availability. Depending on your sport, practice could be in the morning, after school, or in the evening. Many of our teams will have Saturday practices and tournaments; however, BBMS teams do not practice or play games on Sundays.

FAMILY VACATIONS

When parents and student-athletes choose to take their family vacations during a sport season, it must be understood that the time missed by the student-athlete can affect team chemistry and personal conditioning. Student-athletes that miss practices or competition for any reason may have their playing time or position adjusted. Coaches shall make every effort to inform parents and student-athletes of the season’s schedule as far in advance as possible.

RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS

In the event that a student-athlete needs to miss a practice or game due to the observance of a religious holiday, the student-athlete will not be penalized in any way.

INJURY PREVENTION

It is the policy of BBMS to require a medical release clearance for any injury that requires a student to be seen by a physician. Parents should ask the attending physician for a medical release in order for the student to return to the activity. This medical release must be submitted to the coach prior to returning to practice and or playing in a game

TEAM SPORTS MEMO OF UNDERSTANDING

With respect to team sports, it is the understanding and philosophy of the staff of Big Bear Middle School that as much as possible grade levels will be kept intact for the respective teams, 7^th and 8^th. We will trust the judgment and expertise of our coaches to make decisions that benefit our students and teams and that follow league rules.

DANCES

Dances are events where students can get together, socialize, and have fun. Since Big Bear Middle School promotes a healthy, safe, and fun environment for students, we try our best to maintain moral standards and values that successful and mature young adults would have. Dances can be fun and safe events to attend, while still preventing inappropriate behavior. The following rules will be in effect:

Students will follow school rules and the DRESS CODE as outlined in this parent/student handbook.
Students must meet eligibility requirements (Academic and Citizenship). Eligibility is based on the most previous quarter progress report/report card.
Guests will not be admitted. Only currently enrolled students in good standing may attend BBMS dances. Home school students attending CT must have prior written permission through the CT principal to attend middle school dances.
Students must attend school the day of the dance. Refer to previous page regarding attendance rules.
Students must arrive no later than 30 minutes after the dance begins. Students must be picked up within 15 minutes after the dance. Failure to be picked up within this time could result in the student not being allowed to the next dance.
Once students have arrived for the dance, they must stay. If they exit the building without permission, their parents will be called to pick them up and they may lose further dance attendance privileges.
Students will respect and be courteous toward all students and chaperones
Anyone suspected of having used or in possession of or being under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol may be tested. Any positive results may result in dismissal from the dance, exclusion from future dances, parents being notified, and suspended or expelled from school, and clean-sweep citation will be issued. Refusal to cooperate with the test will result in notification to law enforcement. Ed Code 48900.
The manner of dancing will be appropriate for a school function. Sexually explicit dancing such as “freaking”, “grinding”, or any other types of dancing which could be construed as vulgar or provocative is prohibited. Dancing back to front is not permitted.
No “making-out” (no overt and/or prolonged public displays of affection).
While dancing, hands on waists and shoulders only.

Note: All students are encouraged to attend BBMS activities. While in attendance, all school rules are in effect. Students must be picked up within 15 minutes of the end of the event, or they may lose their privilege to attend future events. Once students arrive for an event, they are required to stay until picked up by a parent. (Student must attend school the day of the activity. If they are absent the day of the activity they will not be able to participate).

Safe School Environment

SCHOOL SAFETY PLAN – EC 32280

Big Bear Middle School has a School Safety Plan, which includes a comprehensive disaster preparedness plan.

Copies are available to read at the school office. Fire drills are held monthly; emergency drills are held 3 times per year throughout the district.

SAFE PLACE TO LEARN ACT – EC 234.1

Big Bear Middle School is committed to maintaining a learning and working environment that is free from bullying. Any

student who engages in bullying of anyone in or from the district may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Student Assistance Programs (SAP) is a Big Bear Middle School Student Assistance Program which provides services for students designed to eliminate barriers to academic and personal success. Some of the support SAP is providing includes anti-bullying programs such as Safe School Ambassadors and Positive School Climate Committee. Also offered are after school workshops aimed at teaching effective strategies for conflict resolution. Classroom presentations, small group activities and individual guidance are providing drug education and social skills learning. These programs are funded by Soroptomist International as part of their “Stop Teen Violence” campaign. Melanie Martinez is the SAP Advisor and is on campus 4-5 days a week.

PARENT NOTIFICATION SYSTEM

The district has implemented a district‐wide calling system to notify parents of school activities and of emergencies at the school site. Each school will have the ability to customize the system and messages to parents to meet site needs. If you do not want to participate in this program, please notify the school principal. BBMS has a website at bbms.bearvalleyusd.org with school-wide information.

CLOSED CAMPUS ‐ EC 48900

Big Bear Middle School is a closed campus. Students are under the jurisdiction of and subject to the school rules from the time they leave home until they return to their homes. Being out of class without permission or leaving campus without permission will be handled as a truancy. Parents must check students out at the main office in order for the student to leave campus. Students are not to leave campus after arriving or between school and after school activities. If the student is staying for an extra-curricular activity and it is not immediately after school, students must go home and return at the time of the extra-curricular activity. Student cannot wait unsupervised on campus for the extra-curricular activity to begin.

TOBACCO FREE WORKPLACE – HSC 104420, 104495,

It is the intent of the District that all district buildings/schools be tobacco‐free. Tobacco‐free means the use of tobacco or tobacco products is prohibited on any part of school district grounds or buildings, in district vehicles and at any time by anyone on district property. This includes smoking by staff, students, parents and or other individuals. It is the responsibility of the district administration to make every effort to enforce the policy. HSC 104495 further prohibits smoking or use of any tobacco‐related products and disposal of any tobacco‐related waste within 25 feet of a school playground. The prohibition does not apply to a public sidewalk located within 25 feet of a playground.

SAFETY, BUSINESS, AND NON-INSTRUCTIONAL OPERATIONS – BP 3515

The Governing Board is committed to providing a school environment that promotes the safety of students, employees, and visitors to school grounds. The Board also recognizes the importance of protecting district property, facilities, and equipment from vandalism and theft. The Superintendent or designee shall develop campus security procedures which are consistent with the goals and objectives of the district’s comprehensive safety plan and site-level safety plans. Such procedures shall be regularly reviewed to reflect changed circumstances and to assess their effectiveness in achieving safe school objectives.

SURVEILLANCE SYSTEMS – BP 3515

The Board believes that reasonable use of surveillance cameras will help the district achieve its goals for campus security. In consultation with the safety planning committee and relevant staff, the Superintendent or designee shall identify appropriate locations for the placement of surveillance cameras. Cameras shall not be placed in areas where students, staff, or community members have a reasonable expectation of privacy. Any audio capability on the district’s surveillance equipment shall be disabled so that sounds are not recorded.

(cf. 5131.1 – Bus Conduct) (cf. 5145.12 – Search and Seizure)

Prior to the operation of the surveillance system, the Superintendent or designee shall ensure that signs are posted at conspicuous locations at affected school buildings and grounds. These signs shall inform students, staff, and visitors that surveillance may occur and shall state whether the district’s system is actively monitored by school personnel. The Superintendent or designee shall also provide prior written notice to students and parents/guardians about the district’s surveillance system, including the locations where surveillance may occur, explaining that the recordings may be used in disciplinary proceedings, and that matters captured by the camera may be referred to local law enforcement, as appropriate.

(cf. 5144 – Discipline) (cf. 5144.1 – Suspension and Expulsion/Due Process)

To the extent that any images from the district’s surveillance system create a student or personnel record, the Superintendent or designee shall ensure that the images are accessed, retained, and disclosed in accordance with law, Board policy, administrative regulation, and any applicable collective bargaining agreements.

USE OF DRUG SNIFFING DOGS – BP 5145.12

In an effort to keep the schools free of dangerous contraband, the district may use specially trained, nonaggressive dogs to sniff out and alert staff to the presence of substances prohibited by law or Board policy. The dogs may sniff the air around lockers, desks, or vehicles on district property or at district-sponsored events. Dogs shall not sniff within the close proximity of students or other persons and may not sniff any personal items on those persons without their consent.

SUNSCREEN AND SUN-PROTECTIVE CLOTHING – EC 35183.5

Education Code 35183.5 provides that pupils may use sunscreen during the school day without a physician’s note or prescription.

SCHOOL BUS SAFETY – EC 39831.5

Bus transportation is a privilege extended only to students who display good conduct while preparing to ride, riding, or leaving the bus. The Board of Trustees has adopted the following rules for students in grades K through 12 relating to bus transportation. All students who ride a school bus to school are assigned a bus stop. Students must be issued a bus pass by the school site to change bus stops regardless of the reason. Students will behave in a way which does not distract the driver or endanger other students by:

Riding assigned bus only.
Not changing bus stops or bus number without written permission from office in the form of a bus pass.
Not misbehaving at bus stops.
Being orderly and courteous when loading and riding the bus.
No throwing of objects or rough behaviour.
Facing forward and remaining seated.
Speaking quietly and with courtesy.
Keeping all parts of the body inside the bus.
Keeping the bus clean by not eating, drinking, or chewing gum.
Keeping all books, backpacks, lunch boxes, and other possessions out of the aisle.
Bringing no large objects, pets, or animals of any kind on the bus.
Not tampering with driver’s compartment, emergency doors or controls.

Students may not bring: pets, reptiles or insects, glass bottles or jars, scooters, skateboards, sharp pointed items, knives or guns on the bus. Bear Valley Unified School District reserves the right to use video surveillance cameras on any of the school buses operated by the school district.

RED LIGHT CROSSING VC 22112

School bus drivers shall activate the flashing red light signal system and stop signal arm at all times when the bus is stopped for the purpose of loading and unloading students. The bus driver is directly responsible for the safety of all students loading, unloading and crossing the roadway, regardless of grade level. To assure the safe loading and unloading of every student in BVUSD, the following guidelines are in effect:

Beginning at home, plan time so that you can leave home at the same time every day. Students should arrive at the bus stop five (5) minutes before the school bus arrives. At the end of the school day all students must leave their classrooms in a timely manner to prevent missing the bus ride home. On snowy days, buses will run behind schedule, so please be patient and wait.
If you are walking to the bus stop:
1. Find the safest route to the bus stop.
2. On the way to the bus stop, walk as far away from the roadway as possible.
3. Respect other people’s property
4. While waiting for the bus, stand in single file line.
5. Let the bus come to a complete stop, and let the bus driver open the door before you approach the bus.
6. Use the handrail to help you balance as you enter the bus.
7. Take your seat quickly.
8. Always obey the posted school bus rules.
9. If you are being driven to the bus stop: Parents should park on the same side of the roadway as the bus, leaving enough room so the bus may pull into the bus stop safely.
10. Don’t run or play at the bus stop, stay out of the street.
11. While waiting for the bus, keep the noise down, neighbors may be sleeping.
12. Keep your voice down, don’t distract the driver.
13. Be courteous to your fellow passengers and the driver. Follow the driver’s instructions.

III. Getting off the bus:

Be ready with your belongings. Wait until the bus is at a complete stop before standing and get off the bus only at your designated bus stop. Move away quickly from the bus danger zone, and if you must cross the street, the bus driver must escort you and your parent, if he/she is there.

IV. Emergencies

In an emergency, know what to do and know where all the emergency exits and equipment are and how to use them. Participate in an evacuation drill. In an emergency, it’s up to the student to remain calm. Follow the bus driver’s directions carefully.

*We do not allow students to cross the following streets to get to a bus stop: Hwy 38 (Greenspot)/Big Bear Blvd/North Shore/Greenway/Paradise/State Lane/Moonridge

WALKING OR RIDING A BIKE TO SCHOOL – VC 21212

No person under 18 years of age may operate a bicycle, non‐motorized scooter, skateboard or wear in‐line or roller skates, nor ride as a passenger upon a bicycle, non‐motorized scooter, or skateboard upon a street, bikeway, or any other public bicycle path or trail unless that person is wearing a properly fitted and fastened bicycle helmet that meets specified standards.

Parent Involvement

SCHOOL VISITING PROCEDURES – EC 51101(a)(12)

NEW ENROLLMENT PROCEDURES

Students who are new to Bear Valley and are ready to enroll in grades 7-8, need to come to the Big Bear Middle school office with immunization information, name and address of his/her previous school, and last report card or transfer grades. All sixth grade students who are currently enrolled in a Big Bear Valley School will automatically roll up to Big Bear Middle School and separate enrollment is not necessary.

CHECK-OUT PROCEDURES

If you will be moving out of the Bear Valley area, please notify the office as soon as you know when you will be leaving. All textbooks, library books, and other school materials will have to be returned or you will be charged for them.

EMERGENCY CARDS

Emergency cards are required for each child. These cards are maintained in the office and must have a current phone number where the parent/guardian can be reached during school hours. Information on the cards will enable the school to proceed efficiently in case of illness, accident, or emergency. Please help us keep these records current.

RELEASE OF STUDENTS DURING THE SCHOOL DAY

The law requires that students only be released to those adults listed on their emergency cards. If you desire otherwise at any time, please inform the office in writing. In the event parents are divorced, court papers indicating legal custody must be shown to the school to prevent release to a parent not having custody. Any parent, however, is allowed to visit school, talk with a teacher or school official, and review attendance and academic records, unless the school has a court order specifically prohibiting this. If you would like to change your emergency card, you may call the office for a new card at any time. In the event of a school wide disaster, please remain calm and pick up your child(ren) at the designated check-out location.

SIGN-IN AND SIGN-OUT

We must account for all visitors at Big Bear Middle School. We have a policy that all visitors to the campus sign-in and sign-out. When you sign-in, you need to pick up and wear a volunteer “badge” at the front desk. If you are not wearing this badge, expect to be stopped and asked to go back to the office for a badge.

MESSAGES TO STUDENTS

Occasionally parents may have to leave messages for their children. We are happy to deliver such messages to the classrooms but ask that you call the office prior to 1:00 p.m. This will give our runners time to go to the classrooms or fields for P.E. You may be asked for personal information over the phone so that we can identify you as the parent/guardian.

SCHOOL SITE COUNCIL (SSC)

The School Site Council (SSC) is a group of parents, staff, and the principal which acts as a planning team for school improvement.

CUB BACKERS

Cub Backers is an organization made up of parent volunteers. If you have a student at BBMS, then you ARE a Cub Backer. All parents are encouraged to attend meetings. The Cub Backers raises money to purchase items needed by the school that cannot be covered with state funds. All items purchased with Cub Backer funds remain at the school site.

PICK UP

The most difficult time to locate a student being picked up early is during break or lunch. Please arrange an appropriate time outside of break or lunch for your child to meet you in the office. Please send a note alerting the teacher and office of the time you plan for them to meet you in the office.

DATES OF PROGRESS REPORTS AND REPORT CARDS

Big Bear Middle School is on the semester system. Six progress reports and two report cards will be issued according to the following grading periods:

Friday, September 6 1st deficiency report

Friday, October 4 1st progress report

Friday, November 22 2nd deficiency report

Friday, December 20 1st semester report card

Friday, February 13 3rd deficiency report

Friday, March 21 2nd progress report

Friday, May 9 4th deficiency report

Friday, June 13 2nd semester report card

It is our hope and intent that progress reports getting home on a nearly monthly basis will help you and your student to better monitor your student’s progress. It is imperative for parents to contact their child’s teacher if there are any questions or concerns. You may also check your child’s grades online at our home page bbms.bearvalleyusd.org Click on Infinite Campus Grade information. You will need your child’s student ID # for the user # and the password is your child’s initials and birthdate, i.e., js010197.

Education Rights and Responsibilities

UNIFORM COMPLAINT POLICY AND PROCEDURE – 5 CCR 4622, EC 32289

The Bear Valley Unified School District has primary responsibility for insuring that the district complies with state and federal laws and regulations governing educational programs. Any complaints alleging unlawful discrimination or failure to comply with state or federal laws in adult education, consolidated categorical aid programs, migrant education, child care and development programs, child nutrition programs, vocational educational and special education programs will be reviewed and mediated or investigated by the district. The complainant will have the opportunity to provide relevant information during the investigation. Within sixty days of receipt of the complaint, the district will provide a written report to the complainant. Complaints alleging discrimination must be filed within six months from the alleged occurrence or when knowledge was first obtained. Complainants may also pursue civil law remedies through mediation centers, the county office of education, and public/private interest attorneys. The district follows Uniform Complaints Procedures established in Board Policy #1312. Complaints should be directed to the district office, at telephone number 909-866-4631. If dissatisfied with the district’s resolution of a complaint, the complainant has the right to appeal to the California Department of Education within fifteen days after the district’s report is issued. In a discrimination complaint, the complainant has the right to seek legal remedies (such as court action) when at least sixty days has passed after filing an appeal with the California Department of Education.

CUSTODY ISSUES

Custody disputes must be handled by the courts. The school has no legal jurisdiction to refuse a biological parent access to his/her child and/or school records. The only exception is when signed restraining orders or proper divorce papers, specifically stating visitation limitations, are on file in the school office. Any student release situation which leaves the student’s welfare in question will be handled at the discretion of the site administrator or designee. Should any such situation become a disruption to the school, law enforcement will be contacted and an officer requested to intervene. Parents are asked to make every attempt not to involve school sites in custody matters. The school will make every attempt to reach the custodial parent when a parent or any other person not listed on the emergency card attempts to pick up a child.

DISRUPTION IN A PUBLIC SCHOOL OR PUBLIC SCHOOL MEETING – EC 32210

Any person who willfully disturbs any public school or any public school meeting is guilty of a misdemeanor.

HOMELESS YOUTH EDUCATION – 42 US 11432

The McKinney‐Vento Homeless Assistance Act for Homeless Children and Youth entitles all homeless school‐aged children to the same free and appropriate public education that is provided to non‐homeless students.

A homeless student is defined as a person between the ages of 2 and 18 who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence and may:

• Lives in an emergency or transitional shelter; abandoned building, parked car, or other facility not designed as a regular sleeping accommodation for human beings;

• Lives “doubled‐up” with another family, due to loss of housing stemming from financial problems (e.g., loss of job, eviction or natural disaster);

• Lives in a hotel or motel;

• Lives in a trailer park or campsite with their family;

• Has been abandoned at a hospital;

• Be awaiting foster placement in limited circumstance;

• Reside in a home for school‐aged, unwed mothers/mothers‐to‐be if there are no other available living accommodations; or

• Be a migratory or abandoned, runaway, or throwaway youth that qualifies as homeless because he/she is living in

circumstances described above.

A homeless student may attend his/her school of origin or the school of residence.

The law requires the immediate enrollment of homeless students. Schools cannot delay or prevent the enrollment of a student due to the lack of school or immunization records. It is the responsibility of the new school to request all necessary documents from the previous school, and refer parents to all programs and services for which the student is eligible. Referrals may include, but are not limited to: Free nutrition, special education services, tutoring, English Language Learners programs, Gifted and Talented, preschool, and before and after school services. Unaccompanied youth have these same rights.

If a dispute arises over school selection or enrollment, the parent/guardian has the right to dispute the school’s decision. For further information regarding the dispute resolution process or for additional resources and/or advocacy, please contact the National Center for Homeless Education (1‐800‐308‐2145). For further information regarding school‐related Homeless Youth Education contact Mrs. Tanya Perry, Healthy Start , (909) 585-6257.

ATTENDANCE – EC 48260‐48264

Good attendance is important to success in school. Children between the ages of 6‐18 are required by law to attend school full‐time. Your child misses out when missing school and the district is committed to working with families to ensure attendance. All absences must be verified by a parent or guardian by phone or note. (Extended absences may require a doctor’s note).

TARDINESS

Children should be encouraged to be prompt as part of their training. They are expected to be at school on time. If a child is late, the child should bring an excuse from home to the school office. Frequent tardiness without a valid excuse may be considered truancy under state law. For a tardy to be excused, a student must be tardy for one or more of the same reason listed below under Excused Absences EC 46014 and 48205. Students are considered tardy if they are not in class and prepared to work when the bell rings. Tardiness is a disruption to the instructional program. Guidelines for assigning consequences for tardies:

1-2 tardies – Student counseled and the 2^nd tardy will result in a drop in the Citizenship grade
3^rd tardy – 1 hour detention, parent notified and Citizenship Grade drops 2 grades
4^th tardy – 2 hours detention, parent notified and the Citizenship grade is an automatic F
5^th tardy – Saturday School (failure to show to Saturday school may result to further discipline for defiance.

More than 6 tardies in a 9-week grading period will be considered continual willful defiance and disruptive.

EXCUSED ABSENCES – EC 46014 and 48205

All absences must be verified by a parent or guardian by phone or note. (Extended absences may require a doctor’s note)

Students, with the written consent of their parents or guardians, may be excused from school in order to participate in religious exercises or to receive moral or religious instruction. No student shall have his or her grade reduced or lose academic credit for any excused absence or absences, if missed assignments and tests that can reasonably be provided are satisfactorily completed within a reasonable period of time.

(a) Notwithstanding section 48200, a pupil shall be excused from school when the absence is:

1. Due to his or her illness.

2. Due to quarantine under the direction of a county or city health officer.

3. For the purpose of having medical, dental, optometrical, or chiropractic services rendered.

4. For the purpose of attending the funeral services of a member of his or her immediate family, so long as the absence is not more than one day if the service is conducted in California and not more than three days if the service is conducted outside California.

5. For justifiable personal reasons, including, but not limited to, an appearance in court, attendance at a funeral service, observance of a holiday or ceremony of his or her religion, attendance at religious retreats, attendance at an employment conference, or attendance at an educational conference on the legislative or judicial process offered by a non‐profit organization when the student’s absence is requested in writing by the parent or guardian and approved by the principal or a designated representative pursuant to uniform standards established by the governing board.

6. For the purpose of spending time with a member of the student’s immediate family, who is an active member of the uniformed services, as defined in EC 49701, and has been called to duty for, is on leave from, or has immediately returned from, deployment to a combat zone or combat support position.

ABSENCE FOR RELIGIOUS PURPOSES – EC 46014

Education Code 46014 states that students who are members of religions which observe religious holidays that fall on school days may be absent from school by making prior arrangements with the school. Students so absent must accept responsibility for making up work missed.

TRUANCY/SCHOOL ATTENDANCE REVIEW BOARD – EC 58260

A student is considered truant after three absences or three tardies of more than 30 minutes each time and the absences or tardies are unexcused. A truant student may be referred to the School Attendance Review Board (SARB). Unexcused absences are all absences that do not fall within EC 48205. According to the Education Code (Section 58260) “A student who is absent from school without a valid excuse for more than three days or tardy in excess of thirty (30) minutes on each of more than three days in one school year is a “Truant.” Parents are urged to have his/her child in school each day unless they are ill. Parents will be notified by letter if their child has excessive absences or tardies. Continued tardiness or absences may result in a referral to the School Attendance Review Board (SARB) for action.

ABSENCES, WRITTEN EXCUSES

Big Bear Middle School urges parents to make sure their children attend school regularly and to schedule medical and other

appointments so that a student misses none or only a small portion of the school day. The District also asks that travel or other absences be avoided during the time school is in session. The higher the District’s daily attendance rate, the more a student will learn and the greater the amount of funding that the District will receive from the state for classroom instruction and academic programs. The school calendar is designed to minimize problems for families which plan vacations around traditional holiday periods, and thereby minimize student absences. Following an absence, a student is required to bring a written excuse from home when returning to school. Illnesses and doctor/dental appointments are considered excused absences. Absences without a written excuse are recorded as unexcused.

DAILY ATTENDANCE/CALWORKS

Under the Welfare and Institutions Code, children of families participating in CalWorks must attend school regularly. Parents must provide attendance reports of their child/children upon request of the county. If it is determined that children who are supposed to be in school are not attending, the grant provided to the family may be reduced.

SCHOOL ACCOUNTABILITY REPORT CARD – EC 35256 and 35258

Education Code 35256 requires the district to annually issue a School Accountability Report Card for each school. A copy of a school’s Report Card is available upon request at the school site.

Equal Opportunities

NON-DISCRIMINATION ‐ (Federal Regulations, Title VI and Title IX)

Big Bear Middle School is committed to equal opportunity for all individuals in education. Programs and activities shall

be free from discrimination based on gender, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, ethnic group identification, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, or the perception of one or more of such characteristics. The District assures that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission or participation in District programs. Complaints of unlawful discrimination are investigated through the Uniform Complaint Process. Such complaints must be filed no later than six months after knowledge of the alleged discrimination was first obtained. For a complaint form or additional information, contact site principal at (909) 866-4634.

ACCEPTABLE USE OF TECHNOLOGY

One of the adopted goals of the Bear Valley Unified School District is to assist in advancing the use of technology to enhance student learning. Access to BVUSD technology is a privilege, not a right, and students enrolled in District programs or activities must follow District guidelines and procedures regarding acceptable use of technology. All BVUSD students and their parents/guardians shall sign the Responsible Use Policy and Technology Resources Agreement prior to using District technological resources. BVUSD shall make a diligent effort to filter the inappropriate or harmful matter accessible through the Internet, and students shall also take responsibility not to initiate access to inappropriate or harmful matter while using District technology. Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action and the loss of the privilege to use the technology and/or civil or criminal liability.

ASSESSMENT – EC 56320‐56324

If you refer your child for consideration to Special Education, you have a right to assessment by a multi‐disciplinary team of qualified personnel. Such assessment shall occur only with written authorization from the parent/guardian. Parents’ request must be submitted in a written form to the site principal of the school in which their student is enrolled.

FREE AND APPROPRIATE EDUCATION – SPECIAL EDUCATION ‐ (IDEA, EC 56000; 56365)

All individuals with exceptional needs, ages 3 through 21 years, have a right to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) which includes Special Education and related services in accordance with an Individualized Education Program (IEP). When no public school program can provide the educational services required by the IEP, then a state‐certified, non‐public school may be considered as an alternative at no cost to the parents.

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES UNDER SECTION 504 – 29 USC 794, 34 CFR 104.32

Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (42 USC 12101 et seq.) prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. Section 504 requires school districts to identify and evaluate children with disabilities in order to provide them a free, appropriate public education. Individuals with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, including seeing, hearing, walking, breathing, working, performing manual tasks, learning, eating, sleeping, standing, lifting, bending, reading, concentrating, thinking, speaking, are eligible to receive services and aids designed to meet their needs as adequately as the needs of nondisabled students are met. The school site administrator, or designee, is responsible for implementing Section 504. Parents or guardians must be notified in writing of

the screening and evaluation procedures used whenever there is reason to believe that a student has a disability that limits his or her ability to attend or function at school, the right to a written accommodation plan if the student is found to have a disability that requires services under Section 504, the right to be educated with nondisabled students to the maximum extent appropriate to the student’s individual needs, and notice of the procedural safeguards guaranteed by law, and/or the right to appeal these decisions under Section 504. Discrimination/harassment in any form toward individuals on the basis of their actual or perceived disability is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. The District will promptly investigate all complaints of disability‐based discrimination/harassment and take reasonable actions to stop future incidents of discrimination/harassment. For further information about Section 504 and/or assistance in filing an appeal or complaint regarding Section 504, contact Mr. Ron Dobis, Counselor, (909) 866-4634.

CHILD FIND SYSTEM – EC 56301

Requires the special education local plan area (SELPA) to establish written policy and procedures for continuous child find system including children with disabilities who are migrant or homeless or wards of the state and children with disabilities attending private schools. Policy and procedures is to include written notification to all parents of their rights regarding identification, referral, assessment, instructional planning, implementation, review, and procedures for initiating referral for assessment.

PROPERTY DAMAGE – EC 48904

Parents or guardians may be held financially liable if their child willfully damages school property or fails to return school property loaned to the child. The school may further withhold the grades, diploma, and transcript of the student until restitution is paid.

WILLIAMS COMPLAINT POLICY & PROCEDURE – EC 35186

Every school must provide sufficient textbooks and instructional materials. Every student, including English learners, must have textbooks or instructional materials, or both, to use at home or after school. School facilities must be clean, safe, and maintained in good repair. There should be no teacher vacancies or incorrect assignments. If a school is found to have deficiencies in these areas, and the school does not take corrective action, then a complaint form may be obtained from Site Administration. Parents, students, teachers or any member of the public may submit a complaint regarding these issues. However, it is highly encouraged that individuals express their concerns to the school principal before completing the complaint forms to allow the school to respond to these concerns.

PARENTS’ RIGHT TO KNOW

The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) requires that, upon request, parents be notified of the professional qualifications of their child’s teacher in core academic subjects. This information includes:

• The type of credential the teacher holds

• The teacher’s college degree(s) and major(s)

A parent may also request information regarding the professional qualifications of a teacher assistant who provides services to his/her child. Additionally, schools must provide timely notice to the parents of a child who has been assigned to, or has been taught in, a core academic subject for four or more consecutive weeks by a teacher who does not meet the NCLB teacher requirements.

Medical and Health Information

FREE AND REDUCED PRICED MEALS – EC 49510

Big Bear Middle School takes part in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs. Nutritionally adequate meals

are served every school day. Students who qualify can get these meals at a reduced price or free. Applications for free and reduced‐price meals may be submitted at any time during a school day. Children participating in the National School Lunch Program will not be overtly identified by the use of special tokens, special tickets, special serving lines, separate entrances, separate dining areas, or by any other means. Application forms may be obtained from BBMS office. Free or reduced‐price lunches are available at school for students whose parents or legal guardians qualify, based on annual household income, and complete the required application form.

BREAKFAST, NUTRITION, AND LUNCH INFORMATION

Students who wish to receive or purchase breakfast may do so upon regular arrival time in the cafeteria. A student who qualifies for free or reduced lunch also qualifies for a free or reduced breakfast. Other students may purchase breakfast for $1.50. Our cafeteria provides hot lunches every day with a large selection for students to choose from. The cost of a cafeteria lunch is $3.00, including milk, for those students who do not qualify for a free or reduced lunch. In addition to the cafeteria line, students may also buy a variety of items from the cart. Items on the cart are bought individually.

MEDICATION REGIMEN – EC 49480

The parent or legal guardian of any student taking medication on a regular basis must inform the school nurse or the site administrator of the medication being taken, the current dosage, and the name of the supervising physician. With the consent of the parent or legal guardian, the school nurse may communicate with the physician and may counsel with the school personnel regarding the possible effects of the medication on the student.

Talk to your child’s doctor about making a medicine schedule so that your child does not have to take medicine while at school.
If your child is regularly taking medicine for an ongoing health problem, even if he or she only takes the medicine at home, give a written note to the school nurse or other designated school employee at the beginning of each school year. You must list the medicine being taken, the current amount taken, and the name of the doctor who prescribed it (EC 49480)
If your child must take medicine while at school, please fill out the medication consent form provided by the school office which must be filled out by you and your child’s doctor or other health care provider. Provide new, updated forms at the beginning of each school year and whenever there is any change in the medicine, instructions, or doctor (EC 49423).
As parent or guardian, you must supply the school with all medicine your child must take during the school day. You or another adult must deliver the medicine to school, except medicine your child is authorized to carry and take by him or herself.
All controlled medicine, like Ritalin, must be counted and recorded on a medicine log when delivered to the school. You or another adult who delivered the medicine should verify the count by signing the log.
Each medicine your child must be given at school must be in a prescription bottle labeled by a pharmacist licensed in the United States. The container must list your child’s name, doctor’s name, name of the medicine, and instructions for when to take the medicine and how much to take.
Pick up all discontinued, outdated, and/or unused medicine before the end of the school year.

ADMINISTRATION OF PRESCRIBED MEDICATION OF STUDENTS – EC 49423 and 49423.1

Any student who is required to take, during the regular school day, medication prescribed by a physician, surgeon, or physician assistant may be assisted by the school nurse or other designated school personnel or may carry the self‐administer auto‐injectable epinephrine or inhaled asthma medication if the school district receives a written statement of instruction from the physician, surgeon, or physician assistant detailing the method, amount and time schedules by which such medication is to be taken.

IMMUNIZATIONS – EC 49403 and 48216, HSC 120335, 120365, and 120370

Unless a student’s parent or legal guardian provides the school with an acceptable signed waiver, a student must be immunized against certain communicable diseases. Students are prohibited from attending school until the immunization requirements are met. The school district shall cooperate with local health officials in measures necessary for the prevention and control of communicable diseases in school age children. The district may use any funds, property, or personnel and may permit any person licensed as a physician or registered nurse to administer an immunizing agent to any student whose parents have consented in writing. State law requires the following immunizations before a child may attend school: California School Immunization Law requires verification of the following immunizations for entry into a California Middle School:

Polio: 4 doses at any age, but 3 doses meet the requirements for ages 7-17 years if at least one was given on or after the 2^nd birthday.
Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DPT): 5 doses at any age, but 3 doses meet the requirement for ages 7-17 years if at least one was given on or after the 2^nd birthday (Pertussis is not required after age 7).
Tetanus (Td): 1 dose recommended but not required at 7^th grade if more than 5 years have passed since last Tetanus)
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR): 2 doses both on or after the first birthday
Hepatitis B: 3 doses
Varicella (chicken pox): 1 dose under age 13, 2 doses after age 13, for out-of-state entrants only.
Tdap: 7-12^th graders are now required to get a whooping cough shot before attending the current school year. The required vaccination is called Tdap. This protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and whooping cough (also called pertussis). Starting in 2012-2013 and beyond, only students entering 7^th grade will need proof of a Tdap shot.

If you need further information or clarification, please call the nurse office at (909) 866-4634, ext. 113.

LIABILITY FOR EMERGENCY TREATMENT ‐ EC 49409

It is important for each student to have on file in the school office one or more emergency telephone numbers to be used by the principal when emergency situations arise. The following section from the California Education Code is relevant to this issue: “Notwithstanding any provision of any law, no physician and surgeon who in good faith and without compensation renders voluntary emergency medical assistance to a participant in a school athletic event or contest at the site thereof, or during transportation to a health care facility, for an injury suffered in the course of the event or contest, shall be liable for any civil damages as a result of any acts or omissions by the physician and surgeon in rendering the emergency medical care. The immunity granted by this paragraph shall not apply in the event of an act or omission constituting gross negligence. (Added by Stats. 1978, c 547, 1.)

MEDICAL AND HOSPITAL SERVICES FOR STUDENTS – EC 49472

The medical costs of student accidents are normally the responsibility of the parent or guardian. Student accident insurance solves many problems in advance. Every year the Big Bear Middle School provides parents/guardians with applications for school time accident insurance. The contract is made between the parent/guardian and the insurance company. Big Bear Middle School only supplies the application forms. This low cost accident insurance helps pay for the medical costs if a child is injured while under the jurisdiction of the school.

HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE FOR ATHLETES – EC 32221.5

Under state law, school districts are required to ensure that all members of school athletic teams have accidental injury insurance that covers medical and hospital expenses. This insurance requirement can be met by the school district offering insurance or other health benefits that cover medical and hospital expenses. Some students may qualify to enroll in no‐cost or low‐cost local, state, or federally sponsored health insurance programs. Information about these programs may be obtained by calling the San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools, (909) 386‐2913.

PHYSICAL EXAMINATION – EC 49451

The district is required to test students at specific grade levels for sight or hearing problems and scoliosis. The screening will be done by qualified personnel. Children will be exempt only if the parent/guardian requests such exemption in writing to the school principal. A parent or guardian may file annually with the school principal a written statement, signed by the parent or legal guardian, withholding consent to a physical examination of the student. However, whenever there is good reason to believe that the student is suffering from a recognized contagious or infectious disease, the student shall be sent home and shall not be permitted to return until school authorities are satisfied that the contagious or infectious disease no longer exists.

INSTRUCTION FOR STUDENTS WITH TEMPORARY DISABILITIES – EC 48206.3, 48207 and 48208

A student with a temporary disability which makes attendance in the regular day classes or the alternative educational program in which the student is enrolled impossible or inadvisable, may receive individualized instruction provided in the student’s home for one hour a day. Forms for Home/Hospital forms may be picked up at the site office.

The Discipline Guidelines on the following pages are based on California Educational Codes.

Ed Code 48900	First Offense	Second Offense	Third Offense
(a)-1-Caused, attempted to cause, or threatened to cause physical injury to another person.	1-5 day suspension Parent conference Behavior contract Clean Sweep citation	3-5 day suspension Parent conference Possible pre-expulsion Clean Sweep citation Police called
(a)-2-Willfully used force or violence upon the person of another, except in self-defense.	1-5 day suspension Parent conference Possible pre-expulsion Behavior contract Clean Sweep citation
(b)-Possessed, sold, or otherwise furnished any firearm, knife, explosive, or other dangerous object.	1-5 day suspension Police called Pre-expulsion Clean Sweep citation
(c)-Unlawfully possessed, used, sold, or otherwise furnished, or been under the influence of any controlled substance.	5 day suspension Police called Pre-expulsion Clean Sweep citation
(d)-Unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell any controlled substance listed in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 11053) of Division 10 of the health and Safety Code, an alcoholic beverage, or an intoxicant of any kind, and then either sold, delivered, or otherwise furnished to any person another liquid, substance, or material and represented the liquid as a controlled substance, alcoholic beverage, or intoxicant.	5 day suspension Police called Pre-expulsion Clean Sweep citation
(e)-Committed or attempted to commit robbery or extortion.	3-5 day suspension Police called Pre-expulsion Clean Sweep citation
(f)-Caused or attempted to cause damage to school property or private property.	Possible 1-5 day suspension Police called (if needed) Reimbursement Possible pre-expulsion Clean Sweep citation	Possible 1-5 day suspension Police called (if needed) Reimbursement Possible pre-expulsion Clean Sweep citation	5 day suspension Report to police (if needed) Reimbursement Pre-expulsion Clean Sweep citation
(g)-Stole or attempted to steal school property or private property.	Possible 1-5 day suspension Police called (if needed) Reimbursement Possible pre-expulsion Clean Sweep citation	Possible 1-5 day suspension Police called (if needed) Reimbursement Possible pre-expulsion Clean Sweep citation	5 day suspension Report to police (if needed) Reimbursement Pre-expulsion Clean Sweep citation
(h)-Possessed or used tobacco, or any products containing tobacco or nicotine products, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, miniature cigars, clove cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chew packets, and betel.	Possible 1-5 day suspension Parent notification Confiscate Clean Sweep citation	1-5 day suspension Parent conference Confiscate Clean Sweep citation	3-5 day suspension Possible pre-expulsion Confiscate Clean Sweep citation
(i)-Committed an obscene act or engaged in habitual profanity or vulgarity	Possible 1-5 day suspension Parent notification	Possible 1-5 day suspension Parent notification Possible pre-expulsion	3-5 day suspension Parent notification Pre-expulsion
(j)-Unlawfully possessed or unlawfully offered, arranged, or negotiated to sell any drug paraphernalia, as defined in section 11014.5 of the Health and Safety Code.	5 day suspension Police called Pre-expulsion Clean Sweep citation
(k)-Disrupted school activities or otherwise willfully defied the valid authority of supervisors, teachers, administrators, school officials, or other school personnel engaged in the performance of their duties.	Parent notification Counseling, warning Possible 1-5 day suspension	Parent notification Counseling, warning Possible 3-5 day suspension Behavior contract	Parent notification Counseling, warning 3-5 day suspension Possible pre-expulsion
(l)-knowingly received stolen school property or private property.	Parent notification Restitution Police called (if needed) Possible 1-5 day suspension Possible pre-expulsion Clean Sweep citation	Parent notification Restitution Police called (if needed) Possible 3-5 day suspension Possible pre-expulsion Clean Sweep citation	Parent notification Restitution Police called (if needed) 3-5 day suspension Possible pre-expulsion Clean Sweep citation Pre-expulsion
(m)-Possession of an imitation firearm.	Parent notification 1-5 day suspension Possible pre-expulsion Police called (if needed)	Parent notification 5 day suspension Pre-expulsion Police called
(n)-Committed or attempted to commit a sexual assault as defined in Sections 261, 266c, 286, 288, 288a, or 289 of the Penal Code or committed a sexual battery as defined in Section 243.4 of the Penal Code.	5 day suspension Pre-expulsion Police called
(o)-Harassed, threatened, or intimidated a pupil who is a complaining witness in a school disciplinary proceeding.	1-5 day suspension Parent conference Police called	5 day suspension Pre-expulsion Police called
(p)-Unlawfully offered, arranged to sell, negotiated to sell, or sold the prescription drug Soma.	5 day suspension Pre-expulsion Police called Clean Sweep citation
(q)-Engaged in, or attempted to engage in, hazing as defined in Section 32050	1-5 day suspension Parent conference Police called (if needed) Possible pre-expulsion	3-5 day suspension Parent conference Police called (if needed) Pre-expulsion
(r)-Engaged in an act of bullying, including, but not limited to, bullying committed by means of electronic act.	1-5 day suspension Parent conference Police called (if needed) Possible pre-expulsion	3-5 day suspension Parent conference Police called (if needed) Pre-expulsion
(s)-Aiding or abetting an attempt of physical injury.	1-5 day suspension Parent conference Behavior contract Clean Sweep citation Police called	3-5 day suspension Parent conference Possible pre-expulsion	5 day suspension Parent conference Pre-expulsion
48901.5-Possession or use of any electronic signaling device that operates through the transmission or receipt of radio waves, including, but not limited to, paging and signaling equipment.	Parent notification Counseling Confiscate and return at the end of the day	Parent notification Confiscate and return to parent Possible 1 day suspension	Parent notification Confiscate and return to parent 1-5 day suspension
48900.2-Sexual harassment as defined in Section 212.5 of the Education Code.	Parent notification 1-5 day suspension Possible pre-expulsion Police called (if needed)	5 day suspension

Pre-expulsion

Police called 48900.3-Caused, threatened to cause, or participated in an act of hate violence as defined in Section 233 of the Education Code.

1-5 day suspension
Police called (if needed)
Possible pre-expulsion

5 day suspension
Police called (if needed)
Possible pre-expulsion

48900.4-Intentionally engaged in harassment, threats, or intimidation against a pupil or group of pupils.

1-5 day suspension
Police called (if needed)
Possible pre-expulsion

5 day suspension
Police called (if needed)
Possible pre-expulsion

48900.7-Terroristic threats against school and/or property or both.

1-5 day suspension
Police called (if needed)
Possible pre-expulsion

5 day suspension
Police called (if needed)
Possible pre-expulsion

48904(a)-1-Notwithstanding Section 1714.1 of the Civil Code, the parent or guardian of any minor whose willful misconduct results in injury or death to any pupil or any person employed by, or performing volunteer services for, a school district or private school or who willfully cuts, defaces, or otherwise injures in any way any property, real or personal, belonging to a school district or private school, or personal property of any school employee, shall be liable for all damages so caused by the minor. The liability of the parent or guardian shall not exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000)

5 day suspension
Possible pre-expulsion

5 day suspension
Pre-expulsion

48915-The principal or the superintendent shall recommend a student’s expulsion for any of the following acts committed at school or at a school activity off school grounds, unless the principal or superintendent determines that expulsion is inappropriate, due to the particular circumstances.

48915(a)-1-Causing serious physical injury to another person, except in self-defense.5 day suspension

Possible pre-expulsion

5 day suspension

Pre-expulsion

Definition of serious bodily injury (Penal Code 243) “serious bodily injury” means a serious impairment of physical condition, including, but not limited to the following: loss of consciousness, concussion, bone fracture, protracted loss or impairment of function of any bodily member or organ, wound requiring extensive suturing, and serious disfigurement.48915(a)-2-Possession of any knife, explosive or other dangerous object of no reasonable use to the pupil at school.

5 day suspension
Police called (if needed)
Pre-expulsion

48915(a)-3-Unlawful possession of any controlled substances listed in Chapter 2, Section 11053, of Division 10 of the Health and Safety Code except for the first offense for the possession of not more than one ounce of marijuana.

5 day suspension
Police called
Pre-expulsion

48915(a)-4-Robbery or extortion.

5 day suspension
Police called
Pre-expulsion

48915(a)-5-Assault or battery, as defined in Section 240 and 242 of the Penal Code, upon a school employee.

5 day suspension
Police called
Pre-expulsion

48915(c)-the principal or superintendent of schools shall immediately suspend, pursuant to EC48911, and shall recommend expulsion of a pupil that he or she determines has committed any of the following acts at school or a school activity off school grounds.

48915(c)-1-Possessing, selling, or otherwise furnishing a firearm.

48915(c)-2-Brandishing a knife at another person.

48915(c)-3-Unlawfully selling a controlled substance.

48915(c)-4-Committing or attempted to commit a sexual assault or sexual battery as defined in subdivision (n) of 48900.

48915(c)-5-Possession of an explosive.

5 day suspension
Police called
Pre-expulsion

*Students who are suspended for verbal or physical altercations will be assigned to after school meetings with the Student Assistance Program Advisor.

***Habitual behavior issues can result in an alternative school placement. Note: In the interest of student safety and campus security, the principal reserves the right to modify, add or delete school rules and/or consequences. Mutual combat or argument is defined as being involved in the combat, argument or pushing regardless of who started the altercation.

Big Bear Middle School

Bear Middle School

Student Dance Contract

Expected Student Behavior:

Students will follow school rules and the DRESS CODE as outlined in the parent/student handbook.
Students must be academic and citizenship eligible.
Students will respect and be courteous toward all students and chaperones.
Students must arrive no later than 30 minutes after the dance begins.
Any student wanting to leave the dance early may not re-enter.
Students are subject to all Big Bear Middle School rules.
Anyone suspected of having used or in possession of or being under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol may be tested. *Any positive results may result in dismissal from the dance, exclusion from future dances, parents being notified, and suspended or expelled from school, a clean-sweep citation will be issued. Refusal to cooperate with the test will result in notification to law enforcement. Ed. Code 48900. Students should revisit the student/parent handbook.
The manner of dancing will be appropriate for a school function. Sexually explicit dancing such as “freaking”, “grinding”, or any other types of dancing which could be construed as vulgar or provocative is prohibited. Dancing back to front is not permitted.
No “making-out” (no overt and/or prolonged public displays of affection).
While dancing, hands on waists and shoulders only.

Consequences:

If the inappropriate behavior occurs, the student will be asked to leave the dance. Parents will be notified. A student may lose the privilege of attending dances until a parent conference with administration occurs. If the student wishes to attend other dances, their parent may be asked to chaperone.
If the offense pertains to drugs and/or alcohol, *the above actions will be taken.
No refunds will be given to students who are asked to leave the dance.

________________________________

Print Name

________________________________ ____________________

Student Signature Date

________________________________ ____________________

Parent Signature Date

BIG BEAR MIDDLE SCHOOL

Dena Arbaugh, Principal Post Office Box 1607

Ron Dobis, Counselor Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

Telephone (909) 866-4634/Fax (909) 866-5679

August 1, 2013

To BBMS Parents:

The staff at BBMS has made a decision to allow iPods and other listening devices on campus during school hours. There will be restrictions to using these devices. First, each teacher will make his or her own decision about the policy they choose to enforce in their classrooms. For example, some teachers might allow students to have one ear bud in while students are taking a test or quietly reading during class time. If teachers are giving directions or the class is working together on an assignment, then this would be an example of a time when students should not be using their listening devices. We will also be allowing students to use their listening devices during break and at lunch.

Please be aware that the school will not be held liable for any listening device that is broken, stolen, or lost. Therefore, we are asking you to sign and return the bottom of this letter if you choose to allow your student to have his/her listening device on campus. Having these devices on campus without a signed permission slip will not be allowed. Allowing your child to have the device is up to you, the guardian, and is subject to the above conditions.

If this opportunity for students to use electronic devices turns out to be abused by our student body, we will revoke this right. If we do, we will let you know of that decision.

Sincerely,

Dena Arbaugh

Principal

My child,________________________________________, will be allowed to bring his/her listening device to Big Bear Middle School. By signing this form, I accept that if his/her listening device is broken, stolen, or lost, I will not hold BBMS or any staff liable.

Parent’s Name (printed):____________________________

Parent Signature;__________________________________

Date:______________________

STUDENT/PARENT

HANDBOOK

2014-2015

Student Outcomes

Outcomes

Share this:

Leave a comment Cancel reply