2023-2024 Independence Middle School Student Handbook

Independence Middle School 300 West Locust Independence, KS 67301 Phone: 620-332-1836 Fax: 620-332-1841 www.indyschools.com Office Hours: 7:15 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Table of Contents Mission Statement ……………………………………………………………………………….. 4 The Bulldog Way….. ……………………………………………………………………………. 4 Independence Middle School Administration …………………………………………………… 4 Counseling Staff……………………………………………………………………………….…. 4 Building Office Staff……………………………………………………………………………… 4 Independence USD 446 Board of Education……………………………………………….…….. 4 District Administration……………………………………………………………………...…… 4 District Office Staff………………………………………………………………………………. 4 Instructional Staff ………………………………………………………………………………… 5 Kansas School Safety Hotline……………………………………………………………………. 6 Suicide Awareness……………………………………………………………………….……….. 6 Due Process Clause………………………………………………………………………………. 6 Academic Policies………………………………………………………………………………… 6 Grading Scale…………………………………………………………………………….. 6 Honor Roll………………………………………………………………………………… 6 Academic Assistance……………………………………………………………………… 7 Academic Advancement Requirements………………………….……………………….. 7-8 Academic Dishonesty…………………………………………………………………….. 8 Address Information ……………………………………………………………………………… 8 Zero Hour ….…………………………………………………………………………………… 8 Blended Learning…………………………………………………………………………………. 9 Acceptable Use Policy……………………………………………………………………………. 9 Organization..…………………………………………………………………………………… 10 Attendance………………………………………………………………………………………. 10 Student Absence………………………………………………………………………… 10 Excused Absence……………………………………………………………………....... 10 Unexcused Absence……………………………………………………………………… 10-11 Compulsory Attendance Enforcement Procedure……………………………………….. 11 Truancy………………………………………………………………………………….. 11 Make Up Work after Excused or Unexcused Absence………………………………….. 11 Tardiness………………………………………………………………………………… 11 Checking Out of School ………………………………………………………………… 11-12 Bell Schedule……………………………………………………………………………………. 12 Bullying/Harassment……………………………………………………………………………. 13 The Bulldog Way (Classroom Rules)............................................................................................ 14 1

Discipline Guidelines………………………………………………………………………….... 14 Discipline Point System…………………………………………………………………. 15 Arson……………………………………………………………………………………. 15 Alcohol, Drug Use, Distribution and/or Possession………………………………….…. 15 Bullying/Aggressive Behavior...………………………………………………………… 15 Cheating/ Plagiarism………………………………………………………………....…. 15 Cell Phone and Electronic Devices……………………………………………………… 16 Computer Misuse……………………………………………………………………….. 16 Inappropriate picture and/or video (10 points).................................................................. 16 Classroom Rules Infractions……………………………………………………………. 16 Disrespect Directed Towards Staff……………………………………………………… 16 Disruptive Behavior……………………………………………………………………. 16 Failure to Comply……………………………………………………………………… 17 False Note or Call or Fraudulent Misuse of School Form(s).......................................... 17 Fighting/Physical Assault or Encouraging Fighting…………………………………… 17 Hallway Traffic………………………………………………………………………… 17 Harassment, Sexual Harassment, Discrimination, Hazing……………………………. 17 Dress Code Violation………………………………………………………………….. 17 Horseplay…………………………………………………………………………….... 17 In-School-Suspension…………………………………………………………………. 18 Inappropriate Language or Gesture…………………………………………...………. 18 Instigating Fight or Intimidation……………………………………………………… 18 Lying………………………………………………………………………………….. 18 Open Defiance………………………………………………………………………… 18 Public Display of Affection……………………………………………………………. 18 Skipping School, Not Being in Class, Leaving School Without Permission………….. 18 Tardiness to Class……………………………………………………………………… 18 Theft/Possession of Stolen Items………………………………………………………. 18 Threats-Written or Verbal, Flagrant Misbehavior……………………………………… 19 Vandalism………………………………………………………………………………. 19 Physical Force Against Any Staff………………………………………………………. 19 Weapons Violation, Explosive Device Violation, or Distribution of Illegal Drugs…….. 19 Detention - Student Handbook Discipline Infractions………………………………………….. 19 Detention Room Guidelines……………………………………………..…………… 19 Dress Code Guidelines………………………………………………………………………….. 19-20 Emergency Drills………………………………………………………………………………… 20 Food Service…………………………………………………………………………………….. 20 Breakfast Program/Fees…………………………………………………………………. 20 Lunch Program/Fees…………………………………………………………………….. 20 Food Allergies and Intolerance…………………………………………………….……. 21 Disabilities Relating to Food……………………………………………………………. 21 Discrimination Policy Statement………………………………………………………… 21 Lunch Period Rules…………………………………………………………………..….. 22 Food or Drink Policy……………………………………………………………………………. 22 Gambling………………………………………………………………………………………… 22 Good Standing…………………………………………………………………………………… 22 2

Guidance Office………………………………………………………………………………….. 22-23 Health Insurance……………………………………………………………………………….... 23 Home/School Communications…………………………………………………………………. 23 Lockers………………………………………………………………………………………….. 23-24 Lost and Found……………………………………………….…………………………………. 24 Office Information………………………………………………………………………………. 24 Medication Policy……………………………………………………………...……………….... 24 Search and Seizure………………………………………………………………………………. 24 School Cancellations ……………………………………………………………………………. 25 School Nurse/ Clinic…………………………………………………………………………….. 25 Sexual Harassment………………………………………………………………………………. 25-26 Signs, Posters, and Displays…………………………………………………………………….. 26 Skateboards, Hoverboards, Bicycles, and Scooters…………………………………………….. 26 Transportation…………………………………………………………………………………… 26 General Transportation Guidelines……………………………………………………… 26-27 Unpaid Meal Charges Policy……………………………………………………………...……. 27 Applications…………………………………………………………………………….. 27 Responsible Party……………………………………………………………………..... 27 Options to Pay………………………………………………………………………….. 27 Notification of Unpaid Balances……………………………………………………….. 27-28 Video Release…………………………………………………………………………………… 28 Visitors………………………………………………………………………………………….. 28 Weapons………………....………………………………………………………………………. 29 Withdrawal Information………………………………………………………………………… 29 3

Mission Statement To ensure all students develop the skills necessary to be productive citizens and reach their maximum potential in our diverse society.  The Bulldog Way One of the six goals of the Department of Education is to \"promote strong character and citizenship among our nation's youth\". To reach this goal, the Department of Education joined with state education agencies and school districts across our country to implement character education. Character education teaches the habits of thought and deeds that help people live and work together as families, friends, neighbors, and even communities. Character education is a learning process that enables students [and adults] in a school community to understand, care about and act on core ethical values. Upon such core values, we form the attitudes and actions that are the hallmark of safe, healthy and informed school communities. Independence Middle School operates with the following core values in mind: Respect: to be thoughtful and considerate of someone or something Trustworthiness: to be honest and reliable Work Ethic: working to accomplish a goal or task Safety: freedom from danger, risk or injury Independence Middle School Administration Principal: Carmen Chism Assistant Principal/Activities Director: Sam Carnes Counseling Staff Building Office Staff Christina Mitts Principal Secretary: Trish Coffey Dayna O’Kane Attendance Secretary: Allison Forester Registrar: Andrea Ballard Athletic Secretary: Allison Forester Independence Unified School District 446 Board of Education Charles Barker Sr. Scott Hines Tamisha Sewell Sam Blackard Jennifer Rutledge Greg Hennen Melissa Small District Administration District Office Staff Jason McAfee - Superintendent LeAnn Devore - Board Treasurer Kellie Puderbaugh - Director of Learning Services Toni Jabben - Board Clerk Gina Godinez - Director of Finance Krista Doub - Admin. Assistant Heather Collett - Human Resources 4

Instructional Staff Art: Physical Education Gabriela Johnson Sara Lakey Shawn O’Kane Computer Science: Tyler Ellison Science: Chad Stanford English Language Arts: John Banks Amber Parra Preston Sharp Rebecca Meadows Dana Willis Tammy Reardon TBD Jessica Goza TBD TBD Breeze Jones Social Science: Amanda Allen Family and Consumer Science: Courtney Canfield Jean Wason Derek Pearson Ronald Rice Jr JAG Whitney Woodward Moises Rivera Special Education: Library Media Susan DeCoster Brenda White Jennifer Carpenter Julie King, Library Clerk Shane Koranda Amanda Hightower Math: Sarah Morton Industrial Technology: Diane Spencer Trevor Rinne Susan Etter Tim Townley Title Reading & Math Mike Main Tina Hannah Michaele Kastler CIS Music: Michael Rose Erin Shelton—Instrumental Matthew Carter—Instrumental AVID Shannon Plymell–Orchestra Jessica Goza Christopher Kurt—Vocal Susan Etter Sarah Morton Michaele Kastler - Coordinator 5

Independence Middle School Mascot: Bulldog Independence Middle School Colors: Orange and Black Kansas School Safety Hotline 1-877-626-8203 The Kansas State Department of Education, in cooperation with the Kansas Highway Patrol, has established the Kansas School Safety Hotline: 1-877-626- 8203. The toll-free, school safety hotline is available 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. It gives students, parents, and community members the opportunity to anonymously report any impending or potential school violence. For more information, please call the Kansas School Safety Hotline or the Independence Middle School Office at 620-332-1836. Suicide Awareness 1-800-273-8255 or #988 Independence Unified School District 446 complies with the Jason Flatt Youth Suicide Awareness Act. All staff receives annual training based upon suicide prevention and awareness programs approved by the Kansas State Department of Education. Parents or guardians may obtain a copy of these materials by contacting the district office. Academic Policies Grading Scale: The following grading scale will be used for ALL classes except “Workshop”. A = 89.5 – 100, B = 79.5 – 89.49, C = 69.5 – 79.49, D = 59.5 – 69.49, F = 59 and below Meaning of Grades: A = Excellent F = Failure B = Above average work I = Incomplete C = Average work P = Passing D = Below Average WD = Withdraw Workshop and Advisory classes will use a Pass/Fail grading system: P2: 73% and above P1: 60% - 72% F: 0% - 59% Honor Roll Honor rolls will be published four times per year at the end of each quarter. Principal’s Honor Roll – 4.0 Scholastic Honor Roll – 3.2-3.99 ● No student with a D or F is eligible for the honor roll. ● A student must be enrolled full time with at least 5 credits of course work through IMS to be eligible for the honor roll. 6

Academic Assistance Middle school students must pass their core subjects – Math, English Language Arts, Science, and Social Science in order to advance to the next grade level. Mandatory academic assistance will be required for any student who is failing a core course and has missing assignments that can be turned in for credit. After the first three weeks of each grading period, core subject grades will be checked weekly for the remainder of the quarter to determine if mandatory after school academic assistance is required. Academic assistance will be provided every Tuesday from 3:30pm-4:30pm. Students will be notified on Monday that their attendance is required at AA on Tuesday. Students who miss a required Academic Assistance date will be assigned Wednesday Night School the following day. Academic Advancement Requirements All courses of study are vital to the overall success of our students; students are encouraged to do their very best at all times. In order to gain the foundational knowledge required for future educational success Middle School students must pass their core subjects—Math, English Language Arts, Science, and Social Science—for the entire year. Students that fail the entire year in two (2) or more core subjects will be retained at his/her current grade level. Quarter grades will be averaged to determine an overall grade for the year. Students who fail a core class will be subject to the following intervention: assigned to summer school for credit recovery. Exceptions (determined by administration): 1. The student has put forth satisfactory effort the entire school year to complete all assignments and pass course outcomes, attended academic assistance as assigned, and put forth satisfactory effort to satisfactorily complete summer school. 2. Unusual circumstances (ex. Long term illness) have caused the student to perform under his/her capabilities. These circumstances must be documented and verified by an administrator. Middle School Summer School Attendance Requirements: ● Students will be allowed 3 total absences. ● Students who arrive later than 15 minutes but less than 2 hours late will receive a ½ day absence. ● Students who arrive no more than 15 minutes late will receive a tardy. ● 3 tardies will equal 1 absence. Due to the abbreviated nature of summer school, only emergencies excused by the summer school administrator will be allowed as exceptions to the above expectations. 7

Middle School Retainment or Advancement Guidelines: ● Student must pass summer school class(es) to promote to next school year ● Retained: 1st attempt at Summer School Failed ● BRIDGES Academy: 2nd or more attempts at Summer School Failed Academic Dishonesty Academic dishonesty is not acceptable. Generally speaking, academic dishonesty or plagiarism is the use, without acknowledgment, of information, ideas, or actual writing produced by someone else. A plagiarized assignment is not the student’s own work; it cannot be accepted as fulfillment of an assignment. Furthermore, plagiarism suggests an attempt to deceive and is, therefore, morally unacceptable. Academic dishonesty or plagiarism is typically defined as, but not limited to: copying another student’s work and claiming it is your own, copying a phrase or several phrases, without using quotation marks or citing sources, using substantial amounts of information from a source but not citing the sources; copying word for word (i.e., quoting) a paragraph or lengthier passage without using quotation marks and/or citing the source, copying substantial passages almost word for word and treating the material as paraphrase or as original thinking or copying partially, and copying substantially, or in its entirety, a published article or another writer’s work. Materials taken from electronic sources are covered by this policy. Students who engage in any form of academic dishonesty or plagiarism will be subject to two of the following: 1. Required to re-do all academically dishonest work under the direct supervision of an instructor or other staff member after school for a maximum of 75% credit. 2. Total loss of credit. 3. Detentions, Wednesday Night School, In-school Suspension, and/or Out of School Suspension depending upon severity and number of incidents of academic dishonesty. Address Information It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to keep the office and teachers informed of current address and phone information. This information is vital in the event we need to contact a parent. Parents/Guardians may access the Campus Portal system available at www.indyschools.com to update this information. Zero Hour Students start each day with their 0 Hour. This time is dedicated for students to check their grades, attendance, and missing assignments in Infinite Campus and to work on their school work. Students will also participate in Social-Emotional lessons each week. Most club meetings will be held during this time, as well. Grades (pass/fail) will be determined by the weekly social-emotional lesson and the weekly reflection form. 8

Blended Learning The purpose of this class is to serve as an opportunity to enhance and/or improve student’s math and reading skills. Blended learning allows a student to practice skills at their own ability level. Most students will have the same teacher for their Blended Learning period as their Zero Hour. Grading Scale: Students will have the opportunity to earn 200 points per week: 100 points for reading and 100 points for math. Reading Plus: “Average Reading Comprehension” + Total Instructional Time/80 (80 minutes) divided by 2 = GRADE OR Power Up: Units (20 minimum) + Total Instructional Time (80 minutes) = GRADE AND IXL: Diagnostic Arena Complete (40 pts) + Recommended Skills (4+ skills complete. 60 pts) = GRADE Acceptable Use Policy The Independence School District provides access for students and staff to computer technology and the internet. All users must share the responsibility for seeing that our computer area is used in an effective, efficient, ethical and lawful manner. It is a privilege to have access to these resources and therefore, all users must agree that they will comply with these guidelines: ● Only access the internet under the supervision of a faculty member. ● Agree to use the Internet for only lawful and school related purposes. ● Only contact host sites that are considered by staff or administration to be appropriate at school. ● Respect the integrity of the networks; they will agree that the computer systems are set up by the administrator and are not to be altered in any way. ● Access, save, or use only \"school appropriate\" language, pictures, text or any other data from the internet, remembering to follow United States copyright laws. ● Use the equipment with care and report equipment problems to a staff member Students shall have no expectation of privacy when using district email, computer systems, or electronic devices. E-mail messages shall be used only for approved educational purposes. Any email, computer application, or information stored in district computers, computer systems, or electronic devices is subject to monitoring by the staff and/or administration. The district retains the right to duplicate any information created by students in a computer system, on any individual computer, or on any electronic device. Students who violate these rules or any other classroom rules relating to computer or electronic device use are subject to disciplinary action up to and including suspension or expulsion from school. 9

Organization Student’s will use eHall pass to request to leave the classroom. Student’s will use their Google Calendar to record daily assignments and activities. Students will be emailed a copy of the school rules and policies. *Students that do not have an electronic device can be issued a paper handbook by requesting one in the counseling office. Attendance Student Absence When a student is absent, a parent or guardian must call the school within 24 hours of the absence using the Independence Middle School Attendance Hotline 620-332-1836. The attendance hotline is an automated answering service when called outside of normal office hours. If a parent or guardian does not have access to a telephone in order to call the attendance hotline the school will accept a signed note from the parent or guardian when the student returns to school. An automated phone call will notify all parents/guardians if their student is marked absent in their first hour class. If a phone call or note is not received from the parent or guardian the absence will be recorded as unexcused, and consequences per the student handbook will be assigned. Excused Absence Students with an excused absence from school are entitled to make up missed assignments for credit. Absence for the following reasons will be administratively excused: ● Personal illness: Up to five (5) days in any semester or seven (7) days in a school year will be excused with a parent/guardian call or note; any absences beyond that will only be excused with documentation from a Health Care Professional. ● Health-related treatment, examination, or recuperation; ● Serious illness or death of a member of the family; ● Obligatory religious observances; ● Participation in a district-approved or school sponsored activity or course; ● Absences pre arranged by parents and approved by the principal; and ● Students of active duty military personnel may have additional excused absences at the discretion of the principal for visitations relative to leave or deployment. All absences which do not fit into one of the above categories will be deemed an unexcused absence. Documentation may be required by the administration to verify excuses. See the unexcused absence section for details. Unexcused Absence A child is inexcusably absent from school if the child is absent from all or a significant part of a school day without a valid excuse acceptable to the school. An absence of two or more hours in any school day shall be considered an absence for a significant part of the school day. 10

Students who are more than ten (10) minutes late to class are considered absent and skipping class. Students out of their assigned classroom or designated area without permission will be considered an unexcused absence. See Truancy section below for consequences. Compulsory Attendance Enforcement Procedure: In compliance with K.S.A. 72-1113, students without excuse on either 3 consecutive school days or 5 school days in any semester or 7 school days in any school year, shall be reported to the proper authorities. Truancy Students who are truant, “skip” class, or are out of their designated area will be assigned a 2 hour Wednesday Night School for the first offense. The student’s parent/guardian will be notified by mail, e-mail, or phone and a conference with the Administration may be scheduled. Further occurrences will result in additional Wednesday Night School, In School Suspension, or Out of School Suspension. Make Up Work after Excused or Unexcused Absence It is the student’s responsibility to make arrangements with his/her teachers to secure and complete their assignments/tests missed due to an absence. If a student misses a deadline, they will receive a “0” score in the gradebook; it will also be marked as “missing assignment” in infinite campus. A student can turn in the missing work for full credit until the end of the unit. Teachers will post most assignments in their Google Classroom for students to complete their work in a timely manner. Students absent from school for reasons other than those listed under “Excused Absence” may not receive credit for work missed. Tardiness Being on time to class is considered very important for the individual and to the classroom environment as lateness not only penalizes the individual but also is a disruption to the classroom. All students should be in line outside of their teacher’s classroom when the bell rings. All tardies are unexcused unless a student has a hall pass from a staff member or the office. Students who are less than 10 minutes late to class are tardy. Tardy reports are run Monday mornings; disciplinary consequences for tardies earned will follow the schedule below. ● Students will begin each quarter with 0 tardies. ● Students who receive 7 cumulative tardies will face the following disciplinary action by the office: Tardy 7 - 10 will result in a 45 minute after school detention Tardy 11-13 will result in a 2 hour Wednesday Night School Tardy 14 and any thereafter will result in a one day In-School Suspension. 11

Checking Out Of School Students must follow these procedures when leaving school during the day: 1. After the student has reported onto school property, he/she is not to leave except after reporting to the office and receiving permission. 2. Permission to leave cannot be granted unless a telephone call or signed note has been received from the parents. 3. Students who do not follow these procedures will be disciplined at the discretion of the administration. 4. If a student becomes ill during the day, he/she may go to the clinic, where a health aid is available. The student may remain there for a short time or parents may be called to pick up the student. Time in the clinic will be counted as an excused absence, unless that privilege is abused. 5. Daily, weekly and special bulletins will list students excused for special activities. These students do not have to check out through the office, will be marked as school activity and will be able to make up missed work. Bell Schedule School begins at 8:00am and ends at 3:30pm daily. Students should schedule their time to arrive at school no earlier than 7:30am. Weather permitting, students are to gather on the front patio and in times of inclement weather, students should report to the west bleachers of Losey Gym. The entry bell rings at 7:52am at which time students should prepare for class, add money to their lunch account, secure an admit to class, and take care of any other office business. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday Schedule 7:52 Entry Bell 8:00 First Class Tardy Bell 8:00 – 8:20 Zero Hour 8:23 – 9:08 1st Period 9:11 – 9:54 2nd Period 9:57 – 10:44 3rd Period 10:47 – 11:17 6th Grade Lunch; 7th & 8th Grade 4th Hour 11:19 - 11:49 7th Grade Lunch; 6th & 8th Grade 4th Hour 11:51 – 12:21 8th Grade Lunch; 6th & 7th Grade 4th Hour 12:24 – 1:09 5th Period 1:12 – 1:57 6th Period 2:00 – 2:45 7th Period 2:48 – 3:30 8th Period 12

Wednesday school is dismissed at 2:55 for instructional collaboration. CollaborationWednesday will begin the first full week of school and continue until the last week of school. Wednesday Schedule 7:52 Entry Bell 8:00 First Class Tardy Bell 8:00 – 8:20 Zero Hour 8:23 –9:08 1st Period 9:11 – 9:54 2nd Period 9:57 – 10:44 3rd Period 10:47 – 11:17 6th Grade Lunch; 7th & 8th Grade -8th Hour 11:19 - 11:49 7th Grade Lunch; 6th & 8th Grade -8th Hour 11:51 – 12:21 8th Grade Lunch; 6th & 7th Grade -8th Hour 12:24 – 1:09 5th Period 1:12 – 1:57 6th Period 2:00 – 2:55 7th Period Students arriving and/or leaving school will: ● Keep all sidewalks, steps, parking lots, bicycle rack area, and streets clear for others. ● Respect the property of surrounding homes by not walking on grass or standing on their property. ● Use crosswalks when crossing streets. ● Students eating breakfast should proceed directly to the cafeteria upon arrival at school. ● Leave school grounds promptly at the conclusion of school. NOTE: ● Bus riders will wait at the bus loading area on the east side of the building. ● Students waiting for a parent to pick them up should wait on the patio at the south entrance of the building. Bullying/Harassment According to Kansas statute 72-6147 bullying is defined as any intentional gesture or any intentional written, verbal, electronic or physical act or threat either by any student, staff member or parent towards a student or by any students, staff member or parent towards a staff member that is sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive. If any IMS student believes that he/she is bullied they should report it to the counseling office immediately or fill out a bullying report form found on the USD446 website. The form should be printed and immediately brought to the IMS counseling office. To see the USD 446 Bullying Plan in its entirety visit www.indyschools.com. 13

Due Process Clause If there are complaints students and parents will observe the following chain-of-command in order to maintain a consistent/fair due process: Step 1: Conference with Teacher/Staff member associated with the issue. Step 2: Conference with Building Administration. Step 3: Conference with Superintendent. Step 4: Conference with the Board of Education. For more information regarding complaints see Board of Education policy KN. The Bulldog Way Classroom rules/expectations will follow the IMS Core Values: Respect Trustworthiness Work Ethic Safety Follow Procedures Demonstrate Bring Supplies Meet Deadlines Kindness Use Time Wisely Keep Hands to Stay on Task Get Started Right Yourself Appropriate Be on Time Away Language, Volume, Be Honest Think Before You Act Tone Participate Be a Good Citizen Ask for Help Use Active Listening Treat All Property Keep Trying with Care Discipline Guidelines All offenses are subject, but not limited to, the consequences listed below. Also, all consequences are at the discretion of the Building Administration. The police may be contacted at the discretion of the administration. Whenever a student is given an Out of School Suspension (OSS) a parent/guardian will be contacted. An effort will be made by an administrator to contact the parent/guardian when their student is placed in In School Suspension (ISS). 14

Discipline Point System: An accumulation of 50 points or more will result in the development of an Improvement Plan. The Improvement Plan will ensure the student and parent/guardian understand that continued unacceptable behavior will result in a recommendation of long term suspension/expulsion or placement in the alternative school. The improvement plan will be in effect the entire school year. Students that transfer to another school and return to Independence Middle School later in the school year will re-enter Independence Middle School with the same number of points with which they left. ARSON (20 points) Offense 1 3-10 day suspension with administrative discretion to seek a Long-Term Suspension and/or Expulsion ALCOHOL, DRUG USE, TOBACCO PRODUCT - DISTRIBUTION AND/OR POSSESSION (25 points) Offense 1 5 days Out-of-School Suspension and suspension from student activities for not less than 30 days; IPD will be notified. *Student must complete an online drug course before returning to class. Offense 2 8 days Out-of-School Suspension and Long Term Expulsion from school for remainder of the school year; IPD will be notified *Distribution of illegal substances will result in Long-Term Expulsion (offense 2) BULLYING/AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR (15 points) Offense 1 2 days of In-School Suspension Offense 2 3 days In-School Suspension or Out-of-School Suspension Offense 3 + 5 days Out-of-School CHEATING/PLAGIARISM (5 points) Two of the following: 1. Required to re-do all academically dishonest work under the direct supervision of an instructor or other staff member after school for a maximum of 75% credit. 2. Total Loss of credit. 3. Detentions, Wednesday Night School, In-School-Suspension, and/or Out of School Suspension depending on the severity and number of incidents of academic dishonesty. Offense 1 45 minute detention Offense 2 Wednesday Night School Offense 3 1 day In-School-Suspension Offense 4+ 3 days In-School-Suspension 15

CELL PHONE, HEADPHONES, GAMING DEVICES, ETC (5 points) Students are allowed to bring cell phones and electronic devices in the building and store them in their academic locker during class. Students may not use their cell phones or electronic devices between 08:00am-03:30pm while at school. Offense 1-2 45 minute detention and the device will be confiscated for remainder of the day and picked up by the student in the Middle School Office after school Offense 3-4 Wednesday Night School and the device will be confiscated until the parent/ guardian picks up the device at the end of the school day or sometime after in the Middle School Office Offense 5+ 1 day In-School -Suspension and the device will be confiscated until the parent/guardian picks up the device at the end of the school day or sometime after in the Middle School Office COMPUTER MISUSE (5 points) Offense 1-2 45 minute detention Offense 3-4 Wednesday Night School and device will be confiscated for one week Offense 5+ ISS and device will be confiscated for a minimum of two weeks INAPPROPRIATE PICTURE AND/OR VIDEO (10 points) Offense 1 1-3 days In-School-Suspension Offense 2 3 days In-School-Suspension or Out-of-School-Suspension (administrative discretion) CLASSROOM RULES INFRACTIONS (5 points) Offense 1 Teacher Consequence Offense 2-3 45 minute detention and parent contacted Offense 4-5 Wednesday Night School Offense 6 + 1-2 days In-School-Suspension *Behavior Interventions at the Instructor’s Discretion must be taken prior to disciplinary consequences. These include parent contact, seat assignment change, teacher detention. DISRESPECT DIRECTED TOWARDS STAFF—ANY VERBAL, GESTURE, BODY LANGUAGE OR OTHER MANNERISMS THAT DEMONSTRATE DISRESPECT (10 points) Offense 1 Wednesday Night School Detention Offense 2 2 days In-School-Suspension Offense 3 3 days Out-of-School Suspension Offense 4 5 days Out-of-School Suspension and possible Expulsion DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR (5 points) Offense 1 Teacher Consequence - if occurs in classroom Offense 2 45 minute detention Offense 3-4 Wednesday Night School Offense 5+ 1-2 days In-School-Suspension 16

FAILURE TO COMPLY (5 points) Offense 1 Teacher Consequence - if occurs in classroom Offense 2 45 minute detention Offense 3 Wednesday Night School Offense 4 1-3 days In-School Suspension Offense 5+ 1-5 days Out-of School Suspension FALSE NOTE OR CALL OR FRAUDULENT MISUSE OF SCHOOL FORM(S) (5 POINTS) Offense 1 1 day In-School-Suspension Offense 2 2 days In-School-Suspension Offense 3+ 3 days Out-of-School Suspension FIGHTING/PHYSICAL ASSAULT (20 POINTS) Offense 1 3-10 days Out-of-School Suspension Offense 2 5-10 days Out-of-School Suspension Offense 3 Long-term Suspension/Expulsion HALLWAY TRAFFIC (5 points) Offense 1-2 45 minute detention Offense 3-4 Wednesday Night School Offense 5+ 1-3 day In-School Suspension * Students must have their teacher’s permission to be in the hallways. The student must go directly to the place indicated and return directly to class. Students MUST have staff permission to enter main hallways prior to 07:52 a.m. HARASSMENT, SEXUAL HARASSMENT, DISCRIMINATION, HAZING (15 points) Offense 1 2 days In-School-Suspension Offense 2 3-5 days In-School-Suspension Offense 3+ 3 days Out-of-School Suspension; expulsion may also occur DRESS CODE VIOLATION (5 points) Offense 1-2 Student will alter the clothing violation Offense 3 45 minute detention Offense 4+ Wednesday Night School HORSEPLAY (5 points) Offense 1-2 45 minute detention Offense 3 Wednesday Night School Offense 4+ 1-2 days In-School-Suspension *Students are not to engage in acts of horseplay which are disruptive to the learning Environment or which could result in injury of others even though there was not intent to cause injury. 17

IN-SCHOOL-SUSPENSION REMOVAL (5 points) Offense 1+ Out-of-School Suspension for duration of ISS assignment INAPPROPRIATE LANGUAGE OR GESTURE (5 points) Offense 1-2 45 minute detention Offense 3 Wednesday Night School Offense 4 1 day of In-School-Suspension Offense 5+ 2 days In-School-Suspension INSTIGATING A FIGHT OR INTIMIDATION (20 points) Offense 1 1-3 days In-School-Suspension Offense 2+ 2 days Out-of-School-Suspension LYING (5 points) Offense 1-2 45 minute detention Offense 3-4 Wednesday Night School Offense 5+ 1 day of Out-of-School Suspension OPEN DEFIANCE (20 points) Offense 1 1-3 days In-School-Suspension Offense 2 3-5 days Out-of-School Suspension Offense 3 Suspension for remainder of semester and/or Expulsion PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION—HOLDING HANDS, KISSING AND ANY OTHER AFFECTIONATE CONTACT IS STRICTLY FORBIDDEN (5 points) Offense 1-2 45 minute detention Offense 3-4 Wednesday Night School Offense 5+ 2 days In-School-Suspension SKIPPING SCHOOL, NOT BEING IN CLASS, LEAVING SCHOOL WITHOUT PERMISSION (5 points) Offense 1 Wednesday Night School Offense 2+ 1-3 days In-School-Suspension TARDINESS TO CLASS (5 points) 7-10 45 minute detention 11-13 Wednesday Night School 14+ 1 day of In-School Suspension THEFT/POSSESSION OF STOLEN ITEMS (15 points) Offense 1 Restitution, Parent Conference and 1-3 days of In-School-Suspension or Out-of-School Suspension; IPD may be notified Offense 2 5-10 days Out-of-School and Long-term Suspension/Expulsion; IPD may be notified 18

THREATS-WRITTEN OR VERBAL, FLAGRANT MISBEHAVIOR (20 points) Offense 1 3 days In-School-Suspension or Out-of-School Suspension Offense 2 5-10 days Out-of-School Suspension; possible expulsion Offense 3 Long-term suspension/Expulsion and/or placement in the alternative school VANDALISM (15 points) Offense 1 Wednesday Night School and Restitution Offense 2 3-5 days In-School-Suspension and Restitution Offense 3+ 3-5 days Out-of-School Suspension *The severity of the incident will be determined by the Administration which may result In filing Criminal Charges and advancing straight to expulsion. Placement in the alternative school may also occur. PHYSICAL FORCE AGAINST ANY STAFF Offense 1 5 to 10 day Out-of-School Suspension and recommend either long-term suspension/expulsion and/or placement in the alternative school. IPD may be notified and files charged. WEAPONS VIOLATION, EXPLOSIVE DEVICE VIOLATION, OR DISTRIBUTION OF ILLEGAL DRUGS *Any will result in Long-Term Suspension/Expulsion in accordance with State Law. IPD notified. Detention—Student Handbook Discipline Infractions Students will be assigned detentions by the administration for Student Handbook Discipline Infractions. Any staff member that witnesses a Student Handbook Discipline Infraction is expected to complete an office referral for the student or apply classroom consequences. Detention Room Guidelines: ● Detention begins at 3:35pm and ends at 4:20pm (45 minutes) or 3:00pm - 5:00pm on Wednesdays (2 hour detention) ● Failure to report to a detention will result in a Wednesday Night School assignment or a one day In School Suspension as determined by the administration. ● Be on time. ● Be prepared. Bring pencils, paper and books, and laptop and be prepared to work on assignments approved by the detention teacher. ● No talking to other students. ● Classroom procedures and rules apply. ● Students are not allowed candy, gum or pop in detention. ● Disruption of any kind during detention will result in additional disciplinary action. Dress Code Guidelines Appearance does affect the learning atmosphere of a school. Neatness and good taste are emphasized as guidelines for understanding and interpreting this dress code. This code is not intended to impose a financial hardship on any student or family. 19

General guidelines include but are not limited by: 1. Shoes must be worn. 2. Apparel that is excessively short or excessively tight may not be worn. 3. Apparel that is excessively large or excessively long may not be worn. 4. No “sagging”. 5. Clothing designed for exposure of skin or undergarments (ex. mesh shirts) may not be worn. Sleeveless shirts may be worn provided they do not have oversized arm holes and must cover “2 finger” width on the shoulder. “Tank tops” and spaghetti straps are not permitted. 6. Clothing having vulgar or obscene language or gestures, inappropriate double meanings, racial slurs, or anything sexual in nature or content, and endorsements of alcohol, drug, or tobacco products is unacceptable and should not be worn. 7. Head apparel such as hats, bandanas, sunglasses, hoodies, or anything deemed head apparel by administration, are not to be worn in the school building and will be kept in student’s lockers. 8. Pant chains longer than six inches are not to be worn on school property. 9. Anything that distracts from the learning environment is unacceptable. Students that are enrolled in PE classes are encouraged to place clothes and special equipment for PE in their PE lockers.   =================================================== All rules and policies are subject to interpretation by the Administration. =================================================== Emergency Drills Procedures for exits from each room will be posted in the classroom. Each student should become familiar with the fire, tornado, secured campus, and lockdown drill instructions. Food Service Our breakfast and lunch program operates under the authority of the State and Federal government. The nutritional requirements and regulations of this program are issued by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and are met daily to provide each student a nutritional and reimbursable meal. The food service program is another tool of our educational system to teach the importance of a well-balanced meal. We provide meals, which give each student a chance to choose items of his or her preference. To ensure that each meal is a reimbursable meal, breakfast students must choose three of four items offered, and lunch students must choose three of five items offered. Milk choices are offered with all meals. The Independence Middle School offers breakfast and lunch programs. Household Economic Survey forms are available to all families through the building office. Each student is assigned a unique “PIN” number that is used to establish a meal account. Any amount of money can be 20

paid into this account for meals provided. Payment on lunch accounts, charges and other lunch business should be taken care of in the cafeteria. We encourage student responsibility in respect to charging lunches; therefore charges will be monitored closely. A notice will be issued to the student/ customer when the account appears low. Breakfast: A breakfast consists of a minimum of three menu items: ● Fluid milk served as a beverage ● Any two other foods except a food of minimal nutritional value Students may refuse one of the three items. *Breakfast is available from 7:30 – 7:52 a.m. each school day. Lunch: Lunch serving times vary with all students having a 30 minute lunch period. The USD 446 Food Service offers a hot lunch daily. Students will not be allowed to bring or have delivered a meal purchased from a fast food or other restaurant during lunch periods. In addition, carbonated beverages cannot be consumed in the lunchroom during lunch period. Lunch is closed for all students at I.M.S. Food Allergies and Intolerance: USD 446 Food Service will not be able to provide substitutions for food items to students with allergies or food intolerance that do not meet the definition of a disability. If the student has a food allergy or intolerance, USD 446 Food Service will eliminate that food from the child’s diet if it is supported by a written request from a recognized medical authority. This statement must be submitted each school year. Contact Food Service for more information concerning that written request. Disabilities Relating to Food: For students with disabilities that restrict their diets in such a way that they cannot fully participate in the food service program with some modifications to foods or menus, USD 446 Food Service will provide meal modifications. The term disability is defined as any student who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity. In order for Food Service to provide the special diet for the student, parents or guardians must: 1. Request the special diet; and 2. Provide medical certification from a physician that the special diet is needed. This statement must identify: ● The individual’s disability condition and an indication how the disability restricts the child’s diet. ● The major life function affected by the condition; ● The food or foods to be omitted from the child’s diet and the food or choice of foods that may be substituted. 21

Lunch Period Rules 1. All students will be required to remain in their designated area during the lunch period 2. All students must report directly to the lunchroom and enter the lunch line orderly and quietly. Students must report to class directly after lunch. Students may not use the restroom during transit to and from the cafeteria. 3. Except for filling and emptying trays, students shall stay seated in the lunchroom until dismissed. 4. Students should empty their own trays and clean off their tables when finished eating. 5. No food or drinks should be taken out of the lunchroom 6. Noise level should be kept to a minimum. 7. Students will not be allowed to leave the lunchroom to go to the office, to lockers, or to the library unless they have been given permission by the lunchroom monitor. NOTE: If a student must eat at home for medical reasons, a written request, from a physician, must be given to the office. Food or Drink Policy Outside food/drink can be brought into the building in a nondescript container; food should not be consumed in the hallways. Not allowed in classrooms without teacher permission. Students will be asked to dispose of their food/beverage if consumed in the classroom without permission or in the hallway. Gambling Games of skill or chance played for money or other valuables are illegal. Cards, dice, or other material--and money will be confiscated and may be claimed by a parent from the principal. Good Standing Students who are in good standing have not been identified as truant, have not received out-of-school suspension during the school year, have no more than one in-school-suspension per semester, and are passing a minimum of all 4 core classes AND Advisory per quarter.  Students not in good standing are not allowed to attend school dances and may not be allowed to attend or participate in clubs or other school sponsored activities per administration discretion.  Any student who wishes to appeal their good standing status may write a letter to their administrator for consideration. It will be at the administration’s discretion to determine status. Guidance Office The counselors at IMS believe their number one priority is meeting our student’s social and emotional needs. Societal changes in various social structures, including the home, have resulted in greater demand for assistance in patterns of individual development and the attainment of basic skills. Intellectual, physical and social growth patterns differ widely among individuals. Concern for the social and emotional growth of children is as much a part of the educational process as is their cognitive development. Helping students learn about themselves and their relationships with other people has become an important priority in many communities. By helping students learn skills needed to relate effectively to themselves and others, a more positive 22

and productive community climate may be created. In addition, helping students learn skills needed for evaluation of opportunities and acceptance of responsibility for their own behavior can build a more stable society and perpetuate the democratic way of life. Awareness of the variety and scope of changes, choices and opportunities available today, plus the fact that most experts predict a more rapid pace for future changes, appears to make it even more important that schools and communities provide every possible assistance to today’s youth as they prepare for a future which is largely unknown. Providing a comprehensive developmental counseling program aimed at developing full human capabilities seems to provide one means of preparing today’s youth for tomorrow. Parents are encouraged to contact the Guidance Office with concerns or questions about their student’s social and emotional growth. Health Insurance Independence Unified School District 446 does not provide insurance to cover illness or injuries to students. Families should provide insurance to cover medical expenses that may be incurred by their students. Home/School Communications We consider home/school communication extremely important. Parental/Guardian involvement is vital to student success and parents/guardians are encouraged to be a part of the school team. \\ Please contact the school immediately with any concerns or questions. Communication to home can occur in the following ways: a. Infinite Campus – Parents will be contacted by email or automatic phone service to provide important school information. Parents should contact the school if their mailing address, email or phone number changes. b. Parent Portal (Infinite Campus software system) – Grades, attendance and disciplinary actions are accessible online c. www.indyschools.com – School web page can be accessed for updated information. eg.- school supplies, upcoming assemblies, calendar events. d. Disciplinary Action – parents will be emailed if their child is assigned detention; parents should call the office to obtain specific information on why their child was assigned detention; students assigned ISS or OSS will receive a phone call e. Teachers will initiate contact by mail, email, text or phone. f. Facebook Lockers ● Each student is assigned a locker for storage of books and equipment. ● Students must use only the locker assigned to them. ● Lockers should be kept clean and neatly arranged at all times. ● The school is not responsible for losses. ● ONLY bring necessary education items to school. ● All purses/backpacks and electronic devices must be placed in lockers at the beginning of the school day and are to remain in the locker until the close of the day. 23

● It is the student's responsibility to see that his/her locker is kept locked. Only school locks may be used and any lock not provided by the school will be removed. The school will not investigate items stolen from lockers that are not locked. ● All lockers are school property and subject to random search. ● In cases of medical issues, exceptions may be made by the building administration on a case by case basis. Lost and Found The lost and found is located outside of the cafeteria. Smaller items such as watches, jewelry, glasses, or money, should be turned into the office and reclaimed there. It is necessary that each I.M.S. students assume the responsibility for his/her possessions. You would be very wise to mark your belongings to serve as identification for reclamation upon their loss. Office Information Office Hours: The Middle School office is open on all regular school days from 7:15am to 4:30pm. Summer vacation office hours are from 8:00am to 3:30pm the first two weeks after the fourth quarter has ended. The office is closed the remaining weeks of June and all of July. Transaction of Business: Students who have business in the office should be courteous, quiet, and businesslike, and should leave quickly when the business is completed. The office is open for student business at 7:52am. Telephone Calls: It is the purpose of the office to serve patrons, pupils, and teachers courteously. The office telephones are in such demand that it is necessary to deliver messages instead of calling pupils to the telephone during school hours. Parents needing to contact teachers may phone the Middle School office and one of the secretaries will take your name, phone number, and brief message to forward to the instructor in order that they may return your call during their planning period or when the school day is completed. Medication Policy Medication cannot be carried by students or be kept in their lockers. This is for the safety of all students. Prescription and non-prescription medications must be dispensed through the clinic. All medications must be in their original container with the proper pharmacy label to match the ‘Medication at School’ form. This form must be completed and signed by the medical person prescribing the medication and the parent or guardian of the student. This form is located at most local doctor’s offices, the school offices, and can be printed from the school website: www.indyschools.com under clinic services. Should a special circumstance arise during the year, or if there are special questions, contact the school nurse. Search and Seizure Administrators or their designee may conduct searches of school property when they have reason to suspect that the health, safety, and welfare of students may be in danger and may seize items deemed to be illegal or in violation of school rules/policy. A student's person may be searched when there is reasonable cause to believe that a student has on his/her person illegal items that may endanger others or violate school rules/policies. 24

School Cancellations When inclement weather causes  school schedule changes, Independence   school officials attempt to notify parents  through an all call system, the district's telephone  broadcast service. The system enables school personnel to notify  all school households and/or parents/guardians through a recorded telephone  message, text messaging and email within minutes of when inclement weather, an emergency,  or an unplanned event causes an early dismissal, school cancellation, or a late start to the school day. Please do not attempt to call the number that appears with the recording. Although the telephone broadcast service is a valuable tool for communicating important information, parents should not rely solely on the all call service.   Please monitor the following for school schedule changes and announcements: ● Independence Unified School District 446 Facebook Page ● Independence Unified School District 446 Website:  www.indyschools.com School Nurse/Clinic If a student becomes ill at school they are to report to the office or nurse’s clinic in order to determine an appropriate course of action. If the student is to be sent home or needs immediate medical care the parents/guardians will be notified. In the case of an accident or injury at school, the nurse will be called to handle the emergency and fill out any reports. Students with a temperature of 100.4 or above will be sent home from school. It is the expectation a parent, guardian or emergency contact will pick the student up from school when contacted by the school health clinic or school official. Students should return to school once they are fever free, unless otherwise determined by a physician. Absences are not excused unless documentation is provided by a physician. Any special medical problem should be reported to the school nurse and principal and will be handled confidentially. Students taking medication at school will need to contact the school nurse in regards to regulations allowing medications at school. It should be noted a physical is required the first time attending a Kansas School and legal proof of immunization is required by KSDE. Sexual Harassment Under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX) and its implementing regulations, no individual may be discriminated against on the basis of sex in education programs receiving Federal financial assistance. Peer sexual harassment is a form of prohibited sex discrimination where the harassing conduct creates a hostile environment. Thus, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature constitutes sexual harassment when the conduct is sufficiently severe or repeated as to limit a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the education program, or to create a hostile or abusive educational environment. 25

If you believe you or someone you know has been discriminated against upon the basis of sex or sexually harassed by an employee of Independence Unified School District 446 or another student, you should report the matter immediately to a member of the Middle School faculty or the building administration. It will then be the responsibility of the faculty member and/or building administrator to take immediate and appropriate corrective action. A student or students found to have sexually harassed another student or students will have been in violation of student handbook policy, which will result in disciplinary consequences, and in severe cases, expulsion from school. A student or students found to have sexually harassed another student or students could also face legal consequences. Signs, Posters and Displays All signs, posters and/or displays must be approved by Administration and have a certifying mark (school seal or Principal’s signature) before they may be displayed on school property. Skateboards, Hoverboards, Bicycles, and Scooters Students are not to bring skateboards, hoverboards, or scooters to school at any time. At no time are students allowed to ride on sidewalks, parking lots or the patio surrounding the school. All students who ride bikes to school must park and lock them in the bike racks located on the east side of the Middle School. Transportation Bus transportation shall be provided to and from school for those students who qualify. Transportation may be provided by the district for all school activities. Transportation may be denied to students who are detained after school for disciplinary reasons or assigned mandatory academic assistance or tutoring. When the district provides transportation to an activity, participating students are prohibited from driving personal automobiles to and from district-sponsored activities held during or after the school day. Parents/Guardians may take their student after a school sponsored activity provided they sign a release form prior to the activity in the building office or at the activity in the presence of school personnel. Any other exceptions to this policy must have prior written permission from the building administration. General Transportation Guidelines: ● All school buses will unload on the east side of IMS in the area designated for bus unloading. ● Students are expected to immediately leave the bus zone after unloading. The sidewalks are to be used to approach the main building. ● Students who use school-provided transportation shall be under the jurisdiction of the vehicle driver while in the vehicle and all USD 446 bus rules. ● Students shall be subject to the district's student behavior code and other regulations. ● Keep the aisles clear at all times; students should remain in the seat assigned to them. ● Talk quietly while riding and do not talk to the driver while the bus is in motion. Students must remain quiet at railroad crossings. 26

● While loading or unloading, if you must cross the street or highway, cross in front of the bus. ● No horseplay on the bus and always keep your arms, head and other objects inside the bus. ● Students who misbehave or disobey the bus driver while on the bus may be suspended from riding the bus. Serious or continued misconduct could result in a suspension from riding the bus for the remainder of the school term. ● Students whose conduct at a bus stop or loading violates acceptable student behavior may be suspended from riding the bus from one day to as much as the remainder of the school term. ● Riding district shuttle buses is a privilege and not a right. Misbehavior may result in loss of bus privilege. ● Bus drivers will report violations of the rules to the building administration that may suspend or revoke the transportation privilege of a student who violates any rule or regulation. Free/Reduced Fee Policy Independence Unified School District 446 believes an important part of providing a quality education to your student is providing the opportunity for your child to benefit from a nutritional meal offered before and during the school day.  Independence Unified School District 446 offers all families the opportunity to fill out the Household Economic Survey, which may reduce student textbook fees and other expenses. Applications Independence Unified School District 446 will ● Mail the Household Economic Survey in July prior to school starting to all households with students that attended Independence schools in the previous academic year. ● Provide the Household Economic Survey at Centralized Registration prior to the start of the academic year.  In addition a translator is available at Central Registration to assist with completing the application. ● Provide the Household Economic Survey upon request at any of our schools or Board offices. Responsible Party ● All parents are encouraged, but not required to complete a Household Economic Survey application. ● All parents/guardians will be asked to sign a statement naming a responsible party for the student’s food service account. Options to Pay ● Parents may pay for the student’s food service account at Central Registration. ● Parents may pay for their child’s food service account at the school the child attends. ● Parents may pay for their child’s food service account by accessing the online Parent Portal and pay with a credit or debit card. (See Parent Online Access page 10). Notification of Unpaid Balances ● Responsible parties and/or parents/guardians will be notified of unpaid balances through the following methods: 27

o Parent Portal-electronic message. o Letter sent to the household. o Calls from School district staff. o Text messages from School district staff. o Emails from school district o A combination or all of the above may be used The Food Service Director, their Administrative Assistant or their designee will be responsible for handling unpaid meal charges and delinquent accounts. Video Release Independence Unified School District 446 will not release any video from surveillance cameras to anyone but police in order to protect student’s right to privacy. Visitors Visitors must report to the main office immediately upon entering the building in order to sign in and obtain a visitor badge to be worn while on school property. Weapons A student shall not knowingly possess, handle or transmit any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon on the school grounds or off the school grounds at a school activity, function or event. This policy shall include any weapon, any item being used as a weapon or destructive device, or any facsimile of a weapon. Possession of a firearm shall result in expulsion from school for a period of one-year (186 school days), except that the superintendent may recommend that this expulsion requirement be modified on a case-by-case basis under the provisions of Board Policy item JDC (Probation). Students violating the policy shall be referred to the appropriate law enforcement agencies and if a juvenile, to DCF. As used in this policy, the term “firearm” means any weapon (including a starter gun) which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive, the frame or receiver of any such weapon, or any firearm muffler or silencer; or any destructive device. As used in this policy, the term “destructive device” means any explosive, incendiary or poison gas, bomb, grenade, rocket having a propellant charge or more than four ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge or more than one-quarter ounce, mine, or other device similar to any of these devices. 28

Withdrawal Information A parent/legal guardian should notify the school office prior to any student withdrawing from I.M.S. This should be done in advance of the student’s last day at I.M.S. and may be by phone or written consent. Notification should include the name of the school transferring to, the new mailing address and the date of the student’s last day at I.M.S. The student should report to the Guidance Office prior to first period class the last day in attendance at I.M.S. The Guidance Office will provide a withdrawal card and instructions on how to check in books and other materials. At the end of the school day the student should report to the main office with the completed withdrawal card for final clearance. Once the office has ascertained that the student has checked in all books, locks, and any other school materials, and all fees and fines paid, the student will be released. Clearance will not be issued to the student until all responsibilities and obligations are taken care of. Transcripts are not forwarded to a school until a clearance is issued. 29