WELCOME

TO

GREENWOOD LAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL

 

 

 

Dear Students and Parents:

 

Welcome to the Greenwood Lake Middle School for the 2004 - 2005 school year.  Within these pages are the Student/Parent Handbook and Code of Honor for the school year.  This document is intended to inform students and parents about the values, procedures, priorities, behaviors and expectations of our school family.

 

The Code of Honor is a total commitment to live according to the Core Values.  It commits each of us to reflect the Core Values in our speech and in our actions.

 

The primary focus of our school is to develop in each student this Code of Honor as a standard for life.  The challenge presented to each student is to work to his or her highest potential, to strive for excellence in each task faced whether it is in work or play, and to conduct oneself according to the highest standards of behavior.  Students and parents are encouraged to work together with school personnel in joint efforts to achieve these goals.  It is important for parents to encourage this by words and deeds, and for students to demonstrate these values in work and in play.  It is essential for the entire school community to take pride in our school and to reflect the Core Values in common.

 

We ask that all parents and students take the time to read this Handbook and Code of Honor carefully to ensure an understanding and a respect for school life, for school procedures, and for the dignity of each individual.  The priority given at Greenwood Lake Middle School to an orderly, positive, academic environment, as well as to the right of each student to be free to develop his or her abilities and talents to the fullest extent possible, should be a source of reassurance and confidence to each and every parent that your child is in the finest educational environment for the twenty-first century.  Every student at Greenwood Lake Middle School will be challenged to reach his/her highest potential.  The only limitation is the one that is self-imposed.  

 

Sincerely,

 

 

 

Allan Lipsky

Principal

 

 

GREENWOOD LAKE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT

 

DESCRIPTION

 

The Greenwood Lake Union Free School District is a small rural middle class community located in the Hudson Valley. The School District is one of the few K-8 School Districts in the State.

 

There are approximately 700 students in the School District, and they are educated in two school buildings: 1-4 and K, 5-8.

 

The Greenwood Lake School District enjoys small class sizes, averaging 20 students in a classroom. There is common planning time allocated for staff, throughout the K-8 School Programs, so that teachers can have the opportunity to work on common themes. There is a Middle School concept employed for students in grades 5-8. Middle School Teams utilize common planning time to address curriculum issues, meet with parents, and meet with students who are in need.

 

The Special Education and Academic Intervention Services Programs emphasize least restrictive environment for students, with a philosophy of providing educational services within the School District.

 

Enrichment activities are encouraged throughout the School Program. There is an extensive list of activities scheduled for students during and at the end of the regular instructional day.

 

The Greenwood Lake School District does not have its own high school; however, through a Tuition Agreement, students in grades 9-12 are transported to the Tuxedo Union Free School District and attend George F. Baker High School. Tuxedo is an adjacent community located across the mountain from the Greenwood Lake Community.

 

 

GREENWOOD LAKE UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT

 

VISION STATEMENT

 

Every student in the Greenwood Lake School District can learn and will acquire the skills needed to be successful in the 21st Century.  It is our goal that Greenwood Lake Middle School Students are SAFE, HAPPY, and MOTIVATED to LEARN.

 

MISSION STATEMENT

 

Through providing an environment conducive to learning, the Greenwood Lake Union Free School District will teach each student the skills needed to acquire and process knowledge while developing and fostering social, emotional, and multi-cultural awareness, empowering each student to continue to set future goals for personal growth and the betterment of society.

 

BELIEF STATEMENTS

 

¨      We believe education is important and is a life-long process.

¨      We believe every child begins school with the desire and motivation to learn.

¨      We believe the primary function of school is teaching and learning.

¨      We believe that every child has the right to a quality education in a safe and stimulating environment and no student has the right to interfere with another’s opportunity to learn.

¨      We believe all children have the capacity to contribute to society in a positive manner and become responsible citizens.

¨      We believe in a collaborative effort and shared responsibility among students, staff, parents and community members in the school’s educational process.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GENERAL INFORMATION 

 

REGISTRATION

            A student entering the Greenwood Lake Middle School for the first time must present the following to the Main Office (986-8624):

 

1.      Birth Certificate or other legal evidence of age.

2.      Transfer form and academic report from the school which child previously attended.

3.      Certificates of immunization for:

a.      Measles/Mumps/Rubella Vaccination

b.      D.P.T. plus boosters

c.      Polio Vaccine plus boosters

d.      Hepatitis B Series – for students entering 7th grade

4.      Each pupil entering the Greenwood Lake Schools must furnish a health certificate.

5.      Proof of residence (utility bill, lease, deed, etc.).

 

CHANGE OF ADDRESS, PHONE NUMBER OR CUSTODY MATTERS

            If you change your address or phone number, please notify the school immediately.  If there is any change in the legal custodial arrangements for your child, please notify the Main Office at once in writing.

 

ATTENDANCE (As per Comprehensive Student Attendance Policy #7110)

            Good scholarship and success in school are dependent upon regular attendance.  Irregular attendance is often a prelude to poor grades and also makes it difficult for the student to make up missed work.

            After an absence from school, students are required by law to present an excuse in writing from the parent.  This note should contain the student’s full name, date(s) of absence, reason for absence and must be signed by a parent or guardian.  Absentees submit their excuses upon returning to school to the Homeroom Teacher.

 

            New York State law states that legal reasons for absence/lateness for a minor include ONLY the following:

n      Sickness

n      Sickness/Death in the Family

n      Religious Observance

n      Required Court Appearance

n      Medical Appointments

 

            It is our intent to call the parents/guardians each day their child is absent, except in instance of extended absence where the reason is obvious.  The number at which we can contact you is essential information for the school.  If no adult is home during school hours, the office should be called between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. to report the child’s absence.  If the parent/guardian is unable to make such a call, please give us an alternative number to call, perhaps a relative or friend should be provided.

 

            Unnecessary absences cost parents, as taxpayers (a part of state aid to schools is based on student attendance at school), and pupils educationally.  Regular attendance is vital.

 

 

 

ABSENCE FOR FAMILY VACATION

            We understand that some parents may have no choice but to take vacation time that includes some school days.  We are, however, REQUIRED by state regulations to record such absences as “Unexcused”.

 

            No disciplinary action results from this circumstance, however, the student is responsible for all work missed.  Teachers will inform students about the general area of instruction during their anticipated absence, but cannot provide detailed instructional plans.  Upon return, it is the student’s responsibility to contact teachers for make-up of assignments or tests.   Teachers will assist students and provide reasonable time to meet requirements.

 

HOMEWORK DURING ABSENCES

            Assignments missed during short-term absences can be made up upon returning to classes.  Homework is not sent home for one-day absences.  However, upon the absence of two days, the parent/guardian should call the office before 10:30 a.m. and parents may request written homework from the school even though the value of classroom discussion is gone forever.  Homework assignments may be picked up from the Main Office after 2:30 p.m. on the day following the request.  All student materials should be obtainable from student lockers, if they are not already at home.

 

            Many of our teachers, post their homework assignments on the web page, GWL.ouboces.org.  If a student is absent he/she is encouraged to check to see if their assignments have been posted. 

 

Normally, students will be permitted one day for each day missed to make up work, without penalty.

 

ARRIVAL PROCEDURE

            Upon leaving the school bus and entering the school building, students will proceed to their homerooms.  Students who carry materials with them for a specific class (musical instruments, class projects, etc.) should first take these materials to the respective areas, and then proceed to their homerooms.  Students must be in their seats when morning announcements begin.   Announcements will begin with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.  Everyone is required to stand during the Pledge.

 

EARLY DISMISSAL

            A student who needs to be excused before the regular dismissal time must present a written request to the main office stating the reason and time of requested early dismissal.  The excuse should be a legal excuse and may not be regularly scheduled without administrative approval.  The following steps must be completed:

 

1.     The student must bring in a note written by parent or guardian stating the reason for the early release.

2.     An early dismissal notice will be indicated in the daily bulletin.

3.     Parents or guardians are to meet the student in the main office and sign the dismissal book.

4.     Students are responsible for making up any class work that is missed.

           

Any student who arrives at school and then leaves school grounds without being dismissed, or otherwise released from school by school administration will be deemed to have left school grounds in violation of school rules and procedures and will be considered truant from school.

 

DISMISSAL PROCEDURE  

5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students will be dismissed at 2:30.  Running, horseplay or other dangerous behavior is prohibited.

 

EMERGENCY DISMISSAL

            Every attempt will be made to adhere to normal dismissal times.  However, emergencies do arise (sudden snowstorms, loss of electrical power, etc.) and students may have to be sent home prior to the normal dismissal time.  Please make arrangements with relatives, neighbors, or friends so that students know where to go in the case of an early dismissal.  Each child should know where he/she is expected to go if an emergency should force the early closing of school.

PARENTS ARE URGED TO DISCUSS THESE PROCEDURES WITH THEIR CHILDREN.

 

EMERGENCY AND/OR SNOW DAYS

            If the school is closed, announcements will be made on Radio Stations WHUD, 100.74 FM, WPDH 101.5, WGNY 1220 AM – 103.1 FM, WALL, 1340 AM, WSPK – 104.7 FM and WTZA-TV Local Channel (19).  Announcements will be made the morning of the day of the emergency. 

PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE SCHOOL

 

ACTIVITY BUSES

Buses will be scheduled to transport students home after detention and co-curricular activities.  Buses will transport pupils into the vicinity of their homes.  Drop offs may be different than their regular runs.  The bus schedule will be announced and posted at the beginning of the school year.  Only students who have been involved in a school connected activity will be allowed to ride the late bus.

 

HITCHHIKING

            Hitchhiking is against the law.  It is an unsafe practice, especially hazardous on the highway leading to the school.  School employees are prohibited from picking up hitchhiking students.

 

BICYCLES, SKATEBOARDS, ROLLER BLADES

            All bicycles must be parked in their designated areas.  The Greenwood Lake Union Free School District does not accept responsibility for the safety of the rider on either school grounds or on public highways.  The School District does not accept responsibility for loss, theft, or damage to bicycles. 

            Skateboards and roller blades are not allowed to be brought to school.

 

ACCIDENT PROCEDURE

            All injuries, no matter how minor, must be reported to a member of the faculty immediately.  All injuries must be recorded in the nurse’s log.  Failure to do so may void any insurance claim.

 

MEDICATION

            All medication to be taken during the school hours must be accompanied by written order from the doctor as well as written permission from the parent.  Parental permission slips are also required for over the counter medications including aspirin or Tylenol.  The School District requires that parents personally deliver this medication to the Health Office in properly labeled bottles.  The medication is to be left in the nurse’s office and taken in the presence of the nurse or an administrator.  A doctor’s written order must also be on file in the nurse’s office for any child to use or carry an inhaler in school.

 

 

 

NURSE’S OFFICE

            The nurse’s office is available for medical emergencies and the authorized dispensing of medication only.  It is not a student lounge, rest area, or phone booth.  Except in emergencies, no student will be admitted to the nurse’s office without a proper pass.  For any other student the nurse’s office is an unauthorized area (see page 33).

 

VISITORS

            Although visitors are always welcome in the Greenwood Lake Middle School, all visitors, whether they are students, parents, guardians, former students, or salespersons, must receive permission to be in the school building (according to State Law).  Visitors must use the front entrance and report and sign in at the main office.  Visitors will be given an identification badge to wear for the visit.

 

TELEPHONE

            Students are generally discouraged from using the telephone during the day.  Personal calls are never permissible.  Students will be allowed to use the telephone in the main office or nurse’s office should an appropriate need arise and under the direct supervision of personnel. 

 

WORKING PAPERS

            Other than caddies and students working on their parents’ farms, everyone between the ages of 12 and 18 years must have working papers to be legally employed.  These may be obtained from the main office.

 

SCHOOL RINGS

            The Greenwood Lake Middle School ring is chosen by the 8th grade class, and only the 8th grade students are permitted to purchase the ring.

 

STUDENT GOVERNMENT          

            The student government goals are to instill the principles of democratic government and to encourage participation in school activities by all members.

 

ELECTRONIC DEVICES

            In an effort to maintain a safe and productive school environment, electronic devices not required for academic purposes (cell phones, walkmans, MP3’s, gameboys, etc.) are prohibited from use during school hours.  We strongly urge that these items not be brought to school as we will not be responsible for any devices lost, stolen or damaged.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SHARED DECISION MAKING TEAM

As part of the regulations of the Commissioner of Education (Section 100.11) that required school districts in the State of New York to develop a plan to include the active participation by parents and teachers to improve the educational achievement for all students the Board of Education appointed a District wide committee to plan for the implementation of the Shared Decision Making Teams.

            A Building Level Team was formed in June 1994.  Representatives from administration, teachers, school-related personnel, students, parents (all elected by their stake holder group) and the community form this committee.  The Middle School’s team has met on a monthly basis since that time.  These meetings are open to the public.  All are encouraged to participate in these meetings.

 

 

 

ACADEMIC INTERVENTION SERVICES (AIS)

            The Greenwood Lake School District is required by the State of New York to provide Academic Intervention Services to students who have been identified as being at risk of falling below the state learning standards in English/language arts, mathematics, social studies, and/or science.  Such services may include additional instruction services and/or student support services such as guidance, counseling, and study skills.

 

            A student’s eligibility for Academic Intervention Services will be determined based on his or her performance on state assessment examinations and/or in accordance with district assessment procedures.

 

            When it has been determined that a student needs Academic Intervention Services, the parents will be notified, in writing, by the school.  The notice will outline the reason the student needs such services, the type of services to be provided and the consequences of not achieving the performance standards.  Once a student is scheduled into Academic Intervention Services classes, the student must continue in the program until the next performance assessment.  The student will be removed at that time if the assessment indicates that the student is at or above acceptable level performance. 

 

In addition, the District will provide the parents with opportunities to consult with teachers and other professional staff, regular reports on the student’s progress and information on ways to monitor and work with teachers to improve the student’s performance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TEXTBOOKS, MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT

            All textbooks must be covered and free from marks or tears.  Students whose books are found to have an abnormal amount of damage will be fined or required to pay for the books.  School buildings, equipment, grounds, materials, and supplies are a public trust, supported and maintained by public taxes.  Students and their parents will be held liable for damages, vandalism, and/or loss.

            We encourage the use of erasable pens and prohibit the use of “white out” unless provided by the teacher under direct supervision.

 

HOMEWORK

Homework is an effective instructional technique.  It can positively effect achievement and character development, and can serve as a vital link between school and family.

Homework will have different purposes at different grades.  For the elementary school students, it should foster positive attitudes, habits, and character traits.  For the middle school students, it should facilitate knowledge acquisition in specific topics. 

Homework will be required at all grade levels with a mixture of practice, preparation, and performance assignments.

Parents share the responsibility of student learning.  Parents can assist their children with homework by:

·        Providing a study area free of distractions and with good lighting

·        Asking questions about the content of student homework and/or referring to the assignments recorded

·        Giving requested assistance, but letting the student do his/her own work

·        Avoiding undue pressure

·        Helping create a “homework habit” at the same time each evening

·        Annually reading and reviewing with your child(ren) the school’s homework and guidelines outlined in the student/parent handbook

Teachers are expected to assign homework according to the following guidelines

·        Homework should be a properly planned part of the curriculum extending and reinforcing the learning experience of the classroom

·        Homework should help develop the student’s sense of responsibility by providing opportunities for the exercise of independent work and judgment

·        The number, frequency, and degree of difficulty should be based on abilities, activities, and the needs of students

 

Guidelines for the length and frequency of assignments are:

            Grades 5        two to four assignments each evening totaling 30 to 60 minutes

            Grades 6-8    three to five assignments each evening totaling 60 to 120 minutes

 

Students are given an assignment pad that they are expected to use on a daily basis.  If a student loses their assignment pad, it can be replaced at a cost of $5.00.

All class work and homework missed during an absence is expected to be made up.  Parents may call the school and request assignments for absences of two or more days.    Please be aware teachers need twenty-four hours notice to prepare assignments for students who are absent.  (It is generally unnecessary to request assignments if your child is only out for one day.)

The following pages offer some guidelines and helpful suggestions for getting organized, homework tips, developing good study skills and ways to prepare for tests.

 

GETTING ORGANIZED

·        Heading on paper  

            Name                                                                                      Date

            Subject/Period                                                                      Assignment

 

·        I have the necessary materials to be organized - these may include a three ring binder with dividers, an assignment book, folders for each subject area, a notebook for individual notes, a highlighter felt tip marker.

 

·        My assignment book is kept current.  I refer to it when deciding what materials to take home and how to use my study time.

 

·        A copy of my weekly class schedule is posted inside my locker and notebook.

 

·        I set deadlines for tasks I need/want to complete each day, week, month.  I break long-term projects into smaller, more manageable parts.

 

·        Each evening before bed I set out those things I will need for school the next day, including assignments, books, signed notes, special projects, assignment notebook, backpacks, supplies, etc.

 

·        In my bedroom I keep a calendar of special events, vacations, appointments, etc. which I need to remember when organizing my day.

 

·        I keep a “to do” list of everything I want to accomplish each day.

 

·        I come to class prepared - with my homework assignment and the books, papers, notebooks, erasable pens, pencils, erasers, etc. which I will need in class.

 

·        I never leave class without writing down the assignment for that class.

 

·        My note taking system is easy to understand and doesn’t require a lot of time.  I use a highlighter when reviewing my notes.

 

·        I have a buddy in each class who can help me with the assignments, fill me in when I miss class, help with notes, study questions, etc.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HOMEWORK TIPS

 

            Homework is an important tool for learning.  Homework is also a big factor in determining the grades given to students.  One of the easiest ways of becoming a more successful student is to improve homework quality.  Following are some tips to keep you in the race for school success.

 

GET READY Find an orderly, comfortable, quiet, and well-lighted place to do your homework. 

The following materials/supplies you should have available to you for


homework.