Holmes Student Handbook 2015-16

Holmes Middle School
Student Handbook
2015-
2016
1
Student Handbook Table of Contents
Student Handbook Acknowledgement Form
About the School
Voice Levels
Holmes Life Skills
Classroom Expectations *
Focus on the Positive *
PBIS
SOARing incentives
Excellence picnic
End of the year activities
Visitors
Fieldtrips
Athletic Programs
Intramurals
Counseling Services
Dress Code *
Cell Phones/Other Electronic Devices *
Things to know
Before school
Lockers
Hallway
Lunch
Courtyard
Guest Instructors
Student ID’s
Closed Campus
Telephone usage
Additional Things to Know *
Student Behavior *
Bullying and Harassment
How can you help
Upstander
ACTION
Sexual Harassment
Weapons
Student Search
Off Campus Behavior
Transportation
Levels of Discipline
Opportunity Center
Alternatives to Suspension
Disruptive Behavior
Habitually Disruptive
Remedial Discipline Plan
Student Attendance *
Attendance Policy
Attendance Procedures
Attendance Types
Excessive Absences
Truancy
Inclement Weather
Illness During the Day
Late Arrival
Make-up Work
Tardies
Change of Parent Contact
Academics *
Mid Quarter Reports
Report Cards
Q– Parent Connect
MAP Assessment
State Assessments
Homework Policy
Late Work
Redoing an Assignment
Grading Policy
Citizenship
Citizenship Rubric *
Retention Policy
Cornell Note Taking
Citation Examples
Proper Headings
Personally Owned Electronic Devices
Agreement*
Acceptable Use Agreement for Students *
*Items require initial and signature on
handbook acknowledgement form
2
Holmes Middle School
Student Handbook Acknowledgement
Parents and students, please make sure that you have read the Holmes Middle School Student Handbook
located in the front of the students agenda or on the Holmes web site before completing this form. All students and parents are required to sign this form acknowledging that they have read and understand the contents of the Holmes Middle School Student Handbook and items within. Signing this form does not imply that
you agree with the expectations, simply that you have read them and understand.
Please initial next to each section that you have read.
Student initials
________
________
________
________
________
________
________
_______
_______
_______
_______
Parent initials
________
________
________
________
________
________
________
_______
_______
_______
_______
Student’s Name Printed:
Holmes Life Skills (pg. 6)
Classroom SOAR Expectations (pg. 7)
Focus on the Positive (pg. 8 & 9)
Holmes Middle School Dress Code (pg. 10)
Cell Phones and Other Electronic Devices (pg. 11)
Things to Know (pg. 12 - 14)
Student Behavior (pg. 14 - 17)
Attendance (pg. 17 – 19 )
Academics (pg. 19 - 20 )
Holmes Middle School Citizenship Rubric (pg. 21)
Personally Owned Electronic Device Agreement (pg.23 - 24)
Acceptable Use Agreement for Students (pg. 25)
______________________________________
Student’s Signature:
_________________________________ Date:__________________
Parent (Guardian) Name Printed:
______________________________________
Parent (Guardian) Signature:
Date:__________________
__________________________________
Please return it to the designated core teacher.
3
Personal Competencies are predominantly self
-awareness, self-understanding pieces. Students
will generate a personal digital portfolio that will
include academic data that identifies current
strengths and weaknesses as well as a basic
academic plan.
HOLMES VISION STATEMENT
Developing life-long learners who are capable of leading, creating, and contributing
while being empowered with confidence
and self-knowledge.
HOLMES MISSION STATEMENT
Igniting a passion for learning while inspiring and empowering students for a future
of their own making.
However, we will include much more, such as an
Emergenetics profile for all sixth graders that
helps individuals understand their preferred
thinking and behavioral attributes as well as how
he/she acts and interacts with others. Knowing
and understanding at this level helps students
advocate for themselves and position themselves for effective collaboration with others.
Likewise, a basic understanding of how others
think and interact will also complement collaborative work. By eighth grade, students will complete an Individual Career/Academic Plan
through College in Colorado. As such, this will
be used as a part of information that further
shapes the learning plan for each student. Our
school counseling department will play a significant role in the development of personal competencies. We plan to teach students about the importance of Mindsets and encourage the development of a Growth Mindset, and to provide education and experiences that can develop an
understanding of perseverance and grit.
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
Attendance Office
Counseling Center
Main Office
328-3813
328-3812
328-3800
SCHOOL AND OFFICE HOURS
Teachers and counselors will be at school from
8:30 AM until 4:00 PM. Please call the individual
teacher or counselor to make arrangements if
you wish to meet with him/her before or after
school. The office will be open from 7:30AM to
4:30PM.
Students and Parents as you read the Student
Handbook on the following pages please remember that you are required to sign the
Holmes Student Handbook Acknowledgment
Form that will be kept on file in the front office.
ABOUT HOLMES
Civic competencies will be developed through
activities and projects involving community partnerships. School District Eleven has a central
Volunteer and Community Partnerships office
that continually provides opportunity for local
community partnerships. In addition to local
awareness, we will develop students’ understanding of the global society in which they belong. Guest speakers, reading selections, projects and activities will target civic connections.
Holmes MS was one of only six schools in the
state of Colorado to receive a 2015 Next Generation Learning Challenge grant. Holmes had to
demonstrate the capacity and vision necessary
to create an educational experience that will connect with each student as an individual. Fundamentally, Holmes MS will provide the level of rigor and challenge tailored to your student’s
unique needs regardless of whether he or she is
a gifted, advanced, average, or struggling learner.
Entrepreneurial Competencies will instill in our
students a spirit of perseverance, grit, innovation
and risk taking. We will provide opportunities to
create, synthesize and develop new ideas based
off the content through project-based learning.
An annual Entrepreneurial Fair showcases these
accomplishments.
As an emerging Next Generation Learning
school, we will purposefully incorporate practices
that develop competencies beyond the academic. We are designing means and ways to cultivate five sets of competencies required for high
school, college, or career:
4
Ownership—Being accountable for your own
choices regarding academic success and behavior contributing to a positive school climate
Achievement—Knowing the school expectations and doing your personal best academically
and behaviorally
Respect—Showing respect for all staff, peers
and community members
Professional Competencies: Throughout all
grade levels, professional competencies will be
practiced and continually developed by the students and teachers:
1. Interpersonal/Collaborative Team skills
2. Communication Skills – written, verbal, electronic, and presentation skills
3. Technical Literacy and Expertise – information and computer literacy
4. Responsibility and Time Management –
punctuality, attendance, homework and assignment completion, organization and prioritization
5. Goal Setting – ongoing Plan, Do, Study, Act
(PDSA) cycles
SOARing INCENTIVE PROGRAM
The purpose of this program is to recognize, with
tangible incentives, and to reward those students
who have achieved academic excellence or are
working to improve academically, have demonstrated good citizenship, or have perfect attendance. It is an attempt to motivate all students to
strive for excellence with a new commitment to
their educational success. SOARing Incentive is
more than a program; it is an attitude that everyone can be successful in school whether it is in
citizenship or academics.
Voice Levels
Students may be asked to follow voice level expectations during the school day.
0- Silent
1- Small Group
yond the
(with attention on the adult)
(voice should not carry begroup)
2- Large group (voice should be loud enough
that
the entire class can hear)
POSITIVE BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS
AND SUPPORTS (PBIS)
We promote and endorse a safe and secure
learning environment for all students through the
implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). PBIS is a proactive
approach to discipline that creates the climate
where students are encouraged and recognized
for doing things the right way. Students may receive SOAR tickets (from all staff members) that
can be used in the Hawk Shop or traded in for
various classroom incentives. PBIS integrates
the teaching of valued outcomes and social
skills, re-teaching and practicing these skills, and
reinforcing the demonstrated use of these skills
and outcomes through positive student recognition.
Hawks SOAR
Safety—Behavior that keeps you and everyone
else physically and emotionally safe
5
Holmes Life Skills
Often, students that find themselves in trouble
could have avoided the predicament had they
simply displayed the appropriate, respectful, and
acceptable behavior when interacting with their
peers or adults. Complimenting our use of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports
(PBIS) are HOLMES LIFE SKILLS (formerly
referred to as “Boy’s Town”) which also attempts
to teach students how to accept responsibility for
their own actions and decisions, how to interact
with peers and adults appropriately, and how to
problem solve and make decisions that have a
positive effect on themselves and others in their
surroundings. Put quite simply, the Boys Town
model teaches specific appropriate socialization
skills.


Give a reason.
Listen to the other person.
7. Giving Criticism
 Look at the person.
 Stay calm. Use a pleasant voice.
 Say something positive or 'I understand.'
 Describe exactly what you are criticizing.
 Tell why this is a problem.
 Listen to the person. Be polite.
8. Resisting Peer Pressure
 Look at the person.
 Use a calm voice.
 Say clearly that you do not want to participate.
 Suggest something else to do.
 If necessary, continue to say 'No.'
 Leave the situation.
9. Handling Problems with Other Students
 If the concern is low level, Ignore the
student or their actions.
 If repeated or a higher level of concern,
tell the individual to “Stop” in a serious
tone.
 If your concern is not resolved, tell an
adult.
 If the concern continues or worsens, let
that adult or another adult know.
10. Making an Apology
 Look at the person.
 Use a serious, sincere voice.
 Say 'I'm sorry for…' or 'I want to apologize for…'
 Don't make excuses.
 Explain how you plan to do better in the
future.
 Say 'Thanks for listening.'
11. Minding Your Own Business (MYOB)
 Remain quiet. Stay on task. Follow the
directions that have been given.
 Ignore the situation involving other persons.
 Do not interrupt or involve yourself.
12. Staying Organized
1. Following Instructions
 Look at the person
 Say "Okay".
 Do what you've been asked right away.
2. Getting the Teacher's Attention
 Look at the teacher
 Raise your hand. Stay calm.
 Wait until the teachers says your name.
 Ask your question.
3. Accepting Criticism or a Consequence
 Look at the person.
 Say ‘Okay’ in a positive tone
 Don't Argue
 If you have questions, wait until an appropriate time to ask
4. Accepting 'No' for an Answer
 Look at the person
 Say 'Okay'.
 Stay calm.
 If you disagree, ask later.
5. Making a Request
 Look at the person.
 Use a clear, pleasant voice.
 Explain exactly what you are asking for.
Say “please.”
 If the answer is 'Yes', say 'Thank you.'
 If not, remember to accept 'No' for an answer.
6. Disagreeing Appropriately
 Look at the person.
 Use a pleasant voice.
 Say 'I understand how you feel.'
 Tell why you feel differently.
6




Use a binder and organize it
Bring your binder to every class
Use your agenda in every class
Create an academic routine that you follow every day.

Maintain that routine only if it leads to positive results
CLASSROOM SOAR EXPECTATIONS
Safety



Ownership
No horseplay or
touching games
Follow instructions
Keep others emotionally safe with your
words




Achievement



Be prepared
Complete tasks and assignments
Own behaviors when
redirected
Take responsibility for
learning
Be prepared for class 
Stay on task

Do your personal best

Respect
Be respectful of others
Allow teachers to teach
without disruption
Allow peers to learn without distraction
Entering the
Classroom




On time
Orderly
Quiet
Move directly to your assigned seat
Starting Class



In your assigned seat
Appropriate materials out and ready
Completion of warm up activity—done individually and automatically without prompting
Work Time







Staying in your assigned area
Completion of tasks as assigned
Focus on doing your best work
Individual assignments are done without talking
Group tasks are completed in an orderly and focused manner
Raise your hand
Do not disrupt or distract others
Instructional
Time



Remaining in you seat
Quiet and not distracting or disrupting
Pay attention with eyes and ears on teacher/presenter
Asking for Help 


Electronics

Taking Care of 
Personal Needs
Raise your hand
Keep working if you can, be patient
Wait quietly
Should only be used with prior approval from teacher
When the time is appropriate…
 Raise your hand
 Approach the teacher
 Let the teacher know if your need requires immediate attention of if you can wait awhile
 Try to speak to teacher privately & quietly
Completing &
Returning Assignments




Make sure your name is on your assignment
Use your time in class wisely and complete your assignment as homework if necessary
Write your assignments and homework in your Agenda
TURN IN YOUR WORK
Dismissal




Standing next to your seat
Keep your volume low so you do not disrupt other classes
Floor picked up around your
Wait for teacher to dismiss you
Possible
Consequences
for Disruptive
Behavior




First—Remind, Reteach, Refer to Positive Behavioral Supports expectations
Second—Level 1 referral for “Classroom Misconduct”, Phone call to parent,
Third—Level 1 referral for “Classroom Misconduct”, parent contact, detention, class contract
Fourth—Level 2 ODR—Office Discipline Referral for “Continued Level 1”
7
must meet the following general requirements:
 Have no outstanding library books or fees
 Returned athletic uniforms and equipment
 Must Pass 10 of 16 Core classes
ACADEMIC RECOGNITION
HIGHEST ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT (4.0
GPA)
Students who earn a 4.0 GPA will earn recognition at an awards assembly program and receive
a certificate.
Activities
 8th Grade Breakfast
 8th Grade Celebration
 Year Book Distribution
HIGH ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT (3.6-3.9
GPA)
Students who earn a 3.6 to 3.9 GPA will earn
recognition at an awards assembly program and
receive a certificate.
VISITORS
HOLMES HONOR ROLL
If an adult guest visits the school, the guest must
report to main office and provide ID. We will
supply a visitor’s pass. Parents are always welcome. Visitation by other students, including
friends and relatives, is not permitted without an
adult guest. Standards for visitation at Holmes
Middle School are for the safety and welfare of
all students and staff.
Students who earn a 3.0 to 3.5 GPA will earn
recognition at an awards assembly program and
receive a certificate.
STRIVE FOR .5 RECOGNITION
Students who raise their GPA by .5 by the end of
second, third or fourth quarter will earn recognition at an awards assembly program and receive
a certificate.
FIELD TRIPS
Field trips by different groups or classes are conducted at various times during the year. The trips
are most often in conjunction with class curriculum and should enrich the student’s study. It may
be necessary for the price of some trips to be
borne by students. Any field trips offered by our
school for social purpose are entirely optional.
Students are expected to display appropriate
behavior on all field trips, as they are representatives of Holmes Middle School. Cell phones and
hand-held electronic devices (MP3 players,
iPods, cameras, etc.) are to be handled responsibly and only with advanced permission from a teacher and the school administration. All school rules apply on field trips.
All students must have a signed permission form
before departure on a field trip.
OUTSTANDING CITIZENSHIP
Students with high citizenship grades will be
honored during the awards assembly and will
receive certificates each quarter. A SOARing
Card, with special privileges and incentives, will
be given to those students with all 5’s and 4’s in
citizenship and have no unredeemed ODRs.
PERFECT ATTENDANCE
Perfect attendance requires attendance in every
class period, every day. These students will be
recognized at the quarterly awards programs
where they will receive certificates and a SOARing Card, which allows special privileges and
incentives.
END-OF-THE-YEAR ACTIVITIES
The end of a school year is a culminating time to
recognize and celebrate student successes and
contributions throughout the school year. In order to be eligible for these activities students
8
ATHLETIC PROGRAMS


There are three athletic seasons with a total of
six sports. Each athlete must have a current
physical/yellow card and emergency blue
card on file before the season begins in order
to try out or participate. To compete, each
athlete must have a current physical, emergency blue card, pay the $50.00 sports fee,
and must meet the school eligibility requirements.

INTRAMURAL PROGRAMS
This program is an extension of the instructional
program. The intramural program will offer a
broad range of activities to supplement and complement those offered in the regular academic
and physical education program. Many different
activities will be covered and every student will
play regardless of skill level.
1. Students may not have an F or 2 D’s at the
time grade requirements are pulled.
2. If a student is suspended the day of an event
they may not participate in that event. If they
are suspended on Friday they may not participate in the weekend events.
COUNSELING SERVICES
Counseling services are available for each student at Holmes. Counselors will be teamed to
serve a grade level much the same as our teaching staff is teamed. Our counselors serve as
“student advocates”, assisting students with their
educational, social, and personal needs. Some
of the services provided by the counseling department might include: teaching coping strategies, helping students to identify positive peer
relationships and effective social skills, problem
solving and conflict resolution skills, decision
making skills, goal setting, and career exploration.
3. Students must be at school 4 of the 7 periods
the day of an event.
4. Basketball and Volleyball are cut sports and
there will be only 14 players for A –squad
and 14 for B-squad. Tryouts will be held and
teams will be selected using a rubric. Students will be evaluated on skill, game sense,
coachability, and academic performance.
ATHLETIC AND CLUB SCHEDULE
1st Quarter:
7th & 8th Grade Football
Girls’ Track
(Boys’ Club Golf)
Wrestling
Three of the primary goals of our counseling program for each grade level are the following: facilitating academic achievement, developing selfunderstanding and developing self-direction.
Holmes Counseling does not provide therapeutic
services.
2nd Quarter: Girls’ Basketball
3rd Quarter:
Boys’ Basketball
4th Quarter:
Girls’ Volleyball (Club Volleyball)
Boys’ Track
officials or other fans
Clean up any trash in the athletic area
Concerns about an event should be brought
to the attention of an administrator on duty
Concerns can also be addressed with the
coaches or Athletic Director the following day
(Girls’ Club Golf)
Counselors meet regularly with their grade-level
teaching teams to discuss student behavior and
academic progress. Students, at any time, may
make appointments to see their grade level
counselor .
SPORTSMANSHIP
Students, parents and guests are expected to
display appropriate behavior while attending any
sport associated with Holmes Middle School. All
school rules and expectations apply at sporting activities. The following are expected by all
who attend a Holmes athletic event.
 There will be no negative or derogatory comments made to or about players, coaches,
Counselors are happy to meet with parents at
any time, but please schedule an appointment in
advance to assure that you will not have to wait
for a counselor to become available.
9
CELL PHONES and OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES
Parents may make the determination to provide a child with a cell phone or other electronic device while the student
is enrolled at Holmes. We understand that some parents have a need, for safety reasons, to contact their child before or after school. As well, we understand there are educational advantages to having a smart phone at school.
As such, they are subject to the following guidelines:
1.
The cell phone is only to be used during the school day with expressed prior permission and under the
supervision of a staff member.
2. Students must abide by the following guidelines in all locations within the school including the bathrooms,
hallways, locker rooms, cafeteria and courtyards during school hours.
3. Contacting parents is not a valid excuse to not follow the guidelines.
4. Social media (Facebook, Snapchat, Kik, Twitter, etc.) access during school is strictly prohibited at all times.
5. Texting is prohibited without prior staff approval. (Even to parents)
6. Listening to music is allowed with prior approval only. (Headphones and ear buds should not be seen in the
hall ways or shared with other students.)
7. Photos, videos or recordings of any kind may not be taken at any time without prior approval and knowledge
of staff.
8. Games on cell phones: Games, or other forms of gaming systems are not allowed during the school day unless prior approval is given.
9. Cell phones are not to be used during school dances.
10. A parent must register his/her child’s cell phone with the school each school year by completing and signing the “Holmes Student Handbook Acknowledgment” form and returning them to the front office. This form will
be kept on file in the main office for the current school year.
All Personal Devices and Tablets are subject to the same regulations as cell phones.
Safety
Photos, videos, and accessing social media are only allowed with staff approval and supervision.
Use of your electronic device should not create problems or concerns for others (drama,
harassment, rumors, sext, etc.)
Ownership
Follow the guidelines in all areas of the school.
Maintain possession of your own device
You are responsible for the content on your device
Achievement Your device will only be used as an academic tool during the school day
Respect
Follow the school rules and expectations for electronics at all times
Respect staff decisions regarding your use of electronics
Respect the electronic privacy of others
Violations of the Cell Phone and Personal Electronic Educational Support Device guidelines will result in
the following:
First Offense: The phone or other electronic device will be confiscated. A level 1 referral is written and parents will
be called.
Second Offense: The phone or other electronic device will be confiscated. A level 1 referral is written and lunch
detention will be assigned.
Third Offense: The phone or other electronic device will be confiscated and turned in to the front office returned
only to a parent. A level 2 referral is written and discipline will be assigned.
*Students who do not cooperate with confiscation may face additional an referral.
*Students are personally responsible for the security of their wireless communication devices. The school assumes
no responsibility for personal cell phones and the decision to provide your child with a cell phone is a parental one.
Reports of theft or loss will be handled using the school’s usual procedures for lost and stolen items.
Holmes Middle School and the District are not liable for lost, damaged or stolen personal electronic devices. Students and parents assume all responsibility for phone charges and the cost of a lost or stolen phone. It is advised
that insurance be purchased for these items.
A student’s cell phone may be searched by administration for a specific item related to an ongoing investigation if
they become suspect. It is expected that the student cooperate with administration in looking for the desired information.
10
Holmes Middle School Dress Code
STUDENT DRESS
We at Holmes believe that the way students dress affects their behavior and the quality of their schoolwork, and serves as a reflection of the Holmes community. We strongly encourage professional dress that
supports a serious attitude and level of respect towards education.
Students are expected to dress in a manner that fosters a respectful, positive and academically focused environment. Students should exercise good judgment and be appropriately attired for the classroom. Any clothing accessories or body adornments that may interfere with or disrupt the educational environment are unacceptable.
Clothing should fit, be neat and clean, and conform to standards of safety, good taste, and decency.
Examples of clothing that are NOT acceptable at Holmes or at school activities:











Any shorts or skirts with an inseam of less than mid-thigh/ fingertip length, including volleyball shorts, running
shorts and “cut-offs” (sport specific attire such as track or volleyball shorts are only acceptable during practice
or games)
Jeans or pants with tears or rips that expose skin or undergarments above mid-thigh/fingertip length
Sagging pants
Shirts that show cleavage, or sleeveless shirts that expose undergarments or excessive underarm areas
Spaghetti-straps, halters, or backless or strapless tops of any kind that are not appropriately covered
Leggings worn alone: leggings must be covered by shorts, skirt, shirt, sweater, etc. that are mid-thigh/fingertip
length.
Garments made of fishnet or mesh
Sheer or see through clothing that is inappropriately revealing
Clothing considered sleepwear/loungewear-no pajamas bottoms or slippers
Pants with a slogan written across the buttocks
Clothing or accessories that promote illegal or violent conduct, such as weapons, drugs, alcohol, tobacco,
drug paraphernalia, language and images that are vulgar, discriminatory, obscene, deemed gang related or
perceived as gang representation
Examples of other items that are NOT acceptable at Holmes or at school activities :






safety pins as personal or clothing accessory, chains, and spiked or studded accessories
headgear: such as hats, hoods, ball caps, and bandanas
sunglasses
body adornments such as eyebrow, nose, or mouth piercings that are not small and inconspicuous
extreme haircuts or colors that negatively influence attitudes or behaviors, or pose a disruption to the environment (such as purple Mohawks, hair with spikes, shaved patterns with inappropriate messages or symbols,
etc.)
any items to be known to represent gang affiliation and may pose a concern to other students or staff.
The administration may establish additional guidelines and reserves the right to exclude other types of
clothing or accessories during the school year if deemed necessary.
Contact an administrator prior to making any changes that may be a questionable violation to this code.
Violations of the above guidelines will result in the following:
First Offense: The students will be asked to correct non-complying clothing and may contact parents to assist in
correcting the issue prior to returning to classroom. A level 1 referral, Dress Code Violation, will be issued.
Second Offense of previous violation: The students will be asked to correct non-complying clothing and may
contact parents to assist in correcting the issue prior to returning to classroom. A level 2 referral and a consequence will be issued.
11
THINGS TO KNOW
tape.
 Be respectful of decorations. Any student
(to avoid discipline)
found defacing or destroying decorations may
be disciplined.
 It is the responsibility of the locker owner to
keep the outside of their locker clean of any
tape or pencil/ pen marks (ask for help if needed).
 Spin your lock each time you close your locker
to reset your lock.
 Never share your combination with another
student.
There will be no changing of locker combinations.
 No changing or sharing lockers without Administrations approval.
BEFORE SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS
If you are dropped off or arrive before 8:00 you
are expected to be inside the main courtyard.
Once you are on campus you are not allowed to
leave the courtyard or other supervised area.
On inclement weather mornings, if you would
like a warm place to socialize, the cafeteria
opens at 8:00. If you are in the cafeteria you
must be seated. Students eating breakfast or
drinking a beverage must be seated at the three
tables nearest the kitchen. Breakfast will be
served starting at 8:10.
All students entering the building before 8:35
must sign in at the front office. You may not be
wandering the halls, going to lockers or visiting
other teachers. If you have made prior arrangements with a teacher to be with them before 8:35
you must make sure that teacher is here first and
sign in at the front office. Restroom use from 88:35 is available in the B- building only.
Opening another student’s locker for any reason is absolutely forbidden and will result in
a referral.
HALLWAY CONDUCT
 Hall passes are required if you are in the hall
during class time.
 There will be no games played while in the
halls (tag, trip, hit, touch, etc.)
 There will be no loitering during passing periods.
 Walking is the only acceptable mode of movement (this includes between buildings).
 Please walk on the right side of the hall and
use the right door when entering or exiting a
building.
 Please keep the halls clear and moving—do
not stand and converse in the middle of the
hall or in large groups.
 If you are going between buildings you should
be using the main access doors. If a door is
locked do not pound on the door.
The Media Center is open at 8:00 if you would
like a warm quiet place to read or work on an
assignment or other academic based activity.
Students may not be in a classroom without
adult supervision at any time.
LOCKER EXPECTATIONS
Students are expected to keep lockers clean at
all times. If Security or Administration notices a
disorderly locker they may have you clean it and
take away your locker privileges if the disorder
continues.
The following expectations are:
 Never kick or slam lockers in an attempt to
shut a locker.
 No stickers or tape may be used on the inside
of the locker to decorate—use magnets only.
 No personal decoration on the outside of the
locker.
 Only WEB or other preapproved decorations
may be on the outside of the locker. Decorations may be no larger than 8x 14 inches and
may only be attached using magnets or scotch
LUNCH CONDUCT
 Get to the cafeteria as soon as possible; do not
loiter in the halls.
 Keep voice levels at a 1 or below while in the
cafeteria.
 Go directly to a table if lunch is brought from
home.
 Join the end of a line if buying a lunch. No
standing in line or changing lines just to socialize.
12
LUNCH CONDUCT, continued)
Students who are participating in activities that
begin later in the evening must be with a supervising adult or go home after school and return
at the start of the activity.
 Have ID ready to swipe when approaching the
cashier.
 Once seated, remain at one location (no so-




cializing from table to table) and raise hand to
get up for any reason (bathroom, trash, napkin,
utensils, condiments) and raise hand to be excused.
Students will be excused (raise your hand) to
go outside individually; please do not leave if
you have not been excused.
Clean the area including crumbs and put trash
in the trash and recyclables in the recycling
(empty plastic [1-7] and aluminum.)
You must have a pass from a teacher before
lunch in order to leave the cafeteria during
lunch.
Students who choose to eat lunch in a class
with a teacher may only do so if the teacher
is present and must have prior approval.
Students who are loitering on campus may face
disciplinary consequences.
GUEST INSTRUCTORS
Students will show respect to and follow directions from guest instructors. Disrespect or class
disruptions will not be tolerated. Students who
are causing a disruption to the learning environment may be sent to the office or reported to the
teacher for disciplinary action.
STUDENT ID’S
It is District 11 School Board Policy that students
must have their school ID’s at all times. Students
are issued 1 free ID at the start of the school
year; additional Student IDs will be issued to students at the cost of $5.
COURTYARD CONDUCT
 Stay within the main courtyard and in plain
sight.
 No open food or drinks outside.
 No running, throwing items, touching games,
horseplay, etc.
 Keep off the trees and out of the bushes.
 When the whistle blows, walk to line up in
your assigned location, line up (Alpha order by
Core) single file facing front and bring your
voice level to a zero.
 When announcements are made give your full
attention to the person talking. When released
keep your volume at a voice level 1 or below.
CLOSED CAMPUS
Holmes is a closed campus. This means that
once students arrive on school grounds, they are
required to stay on school grounds until dismissal time unless signed out by a parent. Students
who leave school during the day must be signed
out at the attendance window and must sign in
upon returning. Students may not leave campus
for lunch. Students leaving campus without
permission will be suspended.
AFTER SCHOOL EXPECTATIONS
After school, students are to leave campus by
4:00 unless in a supervised activity. Holmes Middle School cannot provide general supervision
after 4:00pm.
TELEPHONE USAGE
Students may use the phones in their classrooms with teacher permission when possible.
Students may use the phones in the main office
during lunch and before/after school. Cell
phones may only be used with prior approval
from staff including contacting parents.
If students are in a supervised activity, it is expected that they stay with that staff member the
entire duration of the activity and be picked up
no later than 15 minutes after the activity has
ended.
13
Defacing of school property, graffiti or writing on
the building or any other school property is not
allowed and must be reported if it is seen.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
(to avoid discipline)
Students are required to keep heavy jackets and
other outdoor wear in their lockers throughout
the academic day except when going to lunch.
Students will not be a disruption to the learning
or teaching within a class environment.
Purses and backpacks cannot be brought to
class and should remain in lockers.
Students are expected to act in a manner that
supports learning and teaching in classrooms,
halls or during any school sponsored activities.
Students are expected to exhibit proper behavior
in hallways at all times (no running, yelling or
unsafe conduct). Avoid loitering during passing
periods. Students should walk on the right-hand
side of the hallway.
Students are expected to refrain from throwing
any objects during the day unless it is part of a
lesson.
Energy drinks are prohibited on campus.
Gum, candy, food and drinks other than water
are not allowed in the hallways and only in the
classrooms by teacher discretion.
Playing with snow in any manner before, during
or after school, or at the bus stop is not permitted.
Morning drinks must be consumed in the cafeteria or prior to entering the building.
Students are expected to refrain from participating in a fight or instigating/promoting or supporting a fight anywhere on or off school grounds,
school buses, at the bus stop or with another
D11 student.
Students should leave unnecessary items at
home. The administration reserves the right
to ban any item at school, which may be a
distraction to the learning environment.
Students will not use or posses tobacco, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine delivery devices,
cigarette lighters, or alcohol while on school
grounds, at school activities, on school buses or
at the school bus stop.
Students must remain in supervised or assigned
areas on campus at all times.
Students will refrain from any “games” disruptive
to the environment during the school day, particularly touching games.
Students will not possess, use, sell or buy marijuana, drug paraphernalia, Schedule 1-3 drugs,
or any substance represented as a drug on
school grounds, at school activities, on school
buses or at the school bus stop.
Students will use speech free of abusive, derogatory, or profane language with other students or
staff.
Students will refrain from public displays of affection (PDA) including holding hands, hugging,
kissing...
Students will not tamper with the fire alarms or
fire alarm covers unless there is an actual fire.
14
Students will refrain from any situation that could
be considered disorderly conduct, harassment,
assault, knowingly false allegation of child
abuse, or alleged criminal offense directed toward a teacher or school employee.
How can YOU help?
Skateboards shall not be ridden on campus and
must be stored in the student’s locker if brought
to school.
Parents– If it comes to your attention and you
don’t think the school knows about it please notify the school to look into the situation.
Students– if you see bullying or mean behavior
occur take ACTION and be an UPSTANDER. Go
to an adult to get support for yourself or others. If
you talked to an adult and the problem has continued, tell that adult and/or others.
Staff– If a student brings it to your attention, address it with documentation and/or pass the information on to a counselor or an administrator.
If you see bullying or mean behavior occur be an
upstander.
STUDENT BAHAVIOR
(that may lead to discipline)
Bullying and Harassment
Holmes Middle School does not condone or tolerate bullying or harassment of any kind. We encourage students to be an upstander to bullying
and harassment rather than just being a bystander. To promote a positive culture, Holmes
Middle School uses a variety of mediums to develop and maintain a caring community. Through
media rich lessons and activities, our students
improve social skills such as considering another’s perspective, being an ally and/or upstander for another, using calming techniques,
action steps for solving problems and resisting
peer pressure.
Be an Upstander
What behaviors would make someone an upstander? Examples of upstander behavior include: stepping in, standing next to a victim, telling the bully to stop, empathizing with the victim,
not passing rumors along, walking the victim
away from the situation, taking the victim them to
an adult, getting help from an adult, and reporting the situation.
Take ACTION against Bullying
A – Assert yourself: “I’m not okay with what
you just did”.
Bullying is defined in (BOE Policy JICDE) as
any written or verbal expression, or physical or
electronic act or gesture, or a pattern thereof,
that is intended to coerce, intimidate, or cause
any physical, mental, or emotional harm to any
student.
C – Create a distraction: “talk to the bully about
a totally different subject distracting them from
the bullying actions.
T – Turn to others for help. Get your friends to
be with you when you choose A or C or another
upstanding skill.
“Playing around” or “just messing around” does
not excuse bullying or harassing behavior. If
your words or actions cause another, even a
friend, to feel uncomfortable you may be harassing or bullying that person.
I – Include: “Hey, you can come sit with me.”
Include the person who is being bullied in your
activity.
How can you help make Holmes bully-free/
mean-free?
Holmes Middle School wants to be BullyFree/ Mean-free. It takes your involvement to
notify staff and Administration for us to be able to
address the issue. If we do not know about the
bullying/harassment it is difficult for us to address.
O – Offer support. Go to the victim privately
and say “I am so sorry that happened. Are you
okay?
N – Notify an adult: Tell a counselor, parent,
teacher, or Administrator about what is going
on. Keep trying until action is taken.
15
SEXUAL HARASSMENT (BOE Policy JBB)
This policy applies to individuals and activities on
1) all district property, including but not limited to
school buses and electronic communication and
access resources; 2) any non-district property on
which a district- or school-sponsored activity or
event occurs; and 3) any other non-district property or location where the behavior engaged in
may have a direct impact on school discipline or
be detrimental to the welfare or safety of students or staff.
WEAPONS IN SCHOOL
School District 11 and Holmes Middle School will
not tolerate weapons of any kind at school, on
school grounds or at any school event. Any student with a weapon in school, on school grounds
or at any school event will be immediately suspended and may be referred to the Office of Student Discipline for consideration for expulsion.
Weapons include but are not limited to any pistols, revolvers, rifles or shotguns any facsimile
thereof; brass knuckles or any facsimile thereof;
any knife any facsimile thereof or sharpened instrument; Mace, sprays, or other dangerous
chemicals or substances; firecrackers or fireworks; any instrument or item altered or modified
to represent any of the aforementioned weapons. Laser pointers are classified as standard
weapons per BOE policy.
The following are examples of conduct and communication that, regardless of the manner or
means by which they occur, may constitute sexual harassment:
1. Sexually oriented "kidding" or inappropriate
references to sexual matters
2. Continued or repeated offensive sexual flirtations, advances or proposals
3. Continued or repeated verbal remarks about a
person's body
4. Making sexual or lewd gestures
5. Displaying sexual material, such as cartoons,
photos of nudes or pornography, or placing such
material in someone's locker or desk
6. Pressure to engage in sexual activity
7. Unwelcome sexual touching, such as offensive brushing against a person, patting or pinching in a sexual manner
8. "Rating" students on the basis of physical
characteristics
9. Conduct or communications, which, while not
overtly sexual, would not have occurred except
for the student's gender (e.g., vandalizing the
property of a female student)
10. Verbal abuse of a sexual nature or using
sexually degrading words to describe a person;
11. Sending sexual material, such as cartoons,
photos of nudes or pornography
12. Sexually violent behavior involving a physical
act perpetrated against a person’s will or where
a person is incapable of giving consent
STUDENT SEARCH
At times it may become necessary for Administration to search a student or their belongings.
A search will be done if there is suspicion of a
discipline infraction that has occurred and the
student or their belongings has become suspect.
Procedures for a search will follow the School
District 11 Student Conduct, Discipline, Attendance Handbook. Accessed on the District 11
website.
Student Interrogation and Searches, BOE Policy JIH, JIH-R:
School lockers, desks and other storage areas
are school property and remain at all times under the control of the school. School property
provided for the use of students is subject to inspection, clean-outs, access for maintenance
and search pursuant to this policy.
Students shall assume full responsibility for the
security of their lockers and/or other storage areas in the manner approved by the administration.
Students shall be responsible for whatever is
contained in desks and lockers assigned to them
by the school.
Whether or not conduct constitutes sexual harassment will be determined on a case by case
basis, depending on the totality of the circumstances.
Sexual Harassment is a Level III referral with a 5
day suspension minimum.
16
A student’s cell phone may be searched for a
specific item related to an ongoing investigation
if they become suspect. It is expected that the
student cooperate with administration in looking
for the desired information.
STUDENT DISCIPLINE
School District 11 Student Conduct, Discipline, and Attendance Code can be accessed
at
http://www.d11.org/StudentServices/
StudentDiscipline/Documents/Student%
20Conduct%2c%20Discipline%20and%
20Attendance%20Handbook.pdf
OFF-CAMPUS BEHAVIOR
According to H.B. 93-1093, behavior, which
takes place off school grounds, may properly be
subject to suspension or expulsion where the
behavior is detrimental to the safety or welfare of
persons at the school. This may also include
electronic communications.
LEVELS OF DISCIPLINE
Level I Disciplinary Infractions are those infractions that are to be addressed by any staff
member or guest teacher present when the infraction occurs. Documentation will be entered
in Q.
TRANSPORTATION
Holmes Middle School students have the privilege of utilizing the bus service of School District
#11. The following guidelines apply:
Level II Disciplinary Infractions are those infractions that are to be addressed by the Principal or Assistant Principals and for which documentation in Q shall occur and disciplinary action
may follow; suspension shall be an option in the
event of a Level 2 referral.
1. Place of residence determines a student’s
eligibility for bus transportation.
2. Established rules for bus passengers will be
given to the student and their parents. Parents are asked to sign the statement, which
assures that both parents and students know
these rules. Rules are posted on each bus.
3. A student may lose his/her privilege to ride a
bus for violation of these rules.
Level III Disciplinary Infractions are those infractions that are to be addressed by the Principal or Assistant Principal and for which suspension shall be mandatory and further disciplinary
action, including development of a Remedial Discipline Plan (RDP).
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
No student shall be suspended, expelled, or otherwise disciplined without an appropriate level of
due process. The superintendent (or designee)
shall adopt regulations, which specify Level I,
Level II, Level III, and Level IV infractions and
disciplinary actions in accordance with local,
state, and federal law. The superintendent (or
designee) shall review the regulations on an annual basis and shall file a report with the Board
summarizing the review. The report shall include
a discussion of the application and effectiveness
of the regulations and proposed changes, if any,
to the regulations.
Level IV Disciplinary Infractions are those infractions that are to be addressed by the Principal or Assistant Principal and for which suspension shall be mandatory and a Due Process
Hearing shall be mandatory.
LEVELS OF DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS
Level I Disciplinary Action: May include but
need not be limited to one or more of the following:
1. Verbal warning and reteaching by an administrator or staff member
2. Parental contact
17
chance to students through a check-in, checkout program which offers incentives for improved
behavior. The school will frequently work with
parents and guardians at home regarding the
incentive portion of the program. Students are
typically referred to the OC when behavioral interventions at the classroom level have not yet
reduced problem behavior. Students who earn
their first office discipline referral also have the
opportunity to “redeem” that referral through this
program if they would so choose. Any questions
about the program can be directed to the School
Social Worker who oversees the program.
3. In school detention (lunch)
3. Detention before and/or after school with parent contact to arrange transportation.
Level II Disciplinary Action: May include but
need not be limited to one or more of the following:
1. Parental contact
2. Lunch detention, after-school detention/ community service
3. In-school detention
2. Saturday School
Alternative to Suspension
As an alternative to suspension for some Level
II Infractions, the Principal (or designee) may
permit the student to remain in class with the
consent of teachers if the parent attends class
with the student for a period of time specified by
the Principal. If the Principal or designee determines that the student’s presence in school,
even if accompanied by a parent, would be disruptive to the operations of the school or be detrimental to the learning environment then this
alternative to suspension shall not apply. If parents are visiting under an alternative to suspension, they must meet with an administrator and sign an agreement prior to visitation.
4. Development of a Student Behavior Contract
5. Suspension
Level III Disciplinary Action: Shall include a
suspension and may include but need not be
limited to the following:
1. Mandatory 5 day suspension from school
2. Charges filed with civil authorities
3. Administrator/parent/student conference
4. Development of a Remedial Discipline Plan
5. Referral to the Office of Student Discipline for
Student Discipline Hearing
Disruptive Behavior in School
6. Expulsion, transfer of schools, or other alternative placement
State measures provide that students who cause
a disruption in the classroom, on school
grounds, on school vehicles, or at school activities or events will be subject to disciplinary action.
Level IV Disciplinary Action: Shall include suspension by referral to a Student Discipline Hearing and may include the following: Charges filed
with civil authorities
OPPORTUNITY CENTER
The Opportunity Center is a behavioral intervention program at Holmes Middle School based on
research from the University of Oregon. Students who monitor their behavior through use of
a daily behavioral report card and develop a consistent positive relationship with an adult have a
greater likelihood of having significantly fewer
behavioral issues. Thus, the OC provides that
18
appointments and trips outside of school hours.
Students are responsible for attending and participating in the instructional program. If the parents and/or students fail to follow through on
their responsibilities, written notification from the
district administrative staff will be given with referral to the juvenile court system for civil action.
Habitually Disruptive
A Habitually Disruptive Student is defined as a
student who repeatedly causes disruption in the
classroom, on school grounds, on school vehicles, or at school activities and events during the
school year because of behavior that is initiated,
willful and overt, and which requires the attention
of school personnel to deal with the disruption.
However, no child shall be declared habitually
disruptive prior to the development of a remedial
discipline plan.
Every student is encouraged for academic success to have regular attendance at Holmes Middle School. Attendance is also a high priority
at school because it is a life-long requirement
for future ambitions and careers. Absence for
any reason affects both individual student progress and instruction of the class as a whole.
Therefore, absences should be kept to a minimum. As required by the Board of Education, we
will follow D11’s policies regarding make -up
work for absences.
Remedial Discipline Plan
A Remedial Discipline Plan is a state behavior
contract written and developed with input from a
student, his or her parents and appropriate
school staff, which is designed to provide the
structure, support and specific details needed to
improve and/or correct the student’s inappropriate/disruptive behavior. A remedial discipline
plan is written following and level III behavior infraction. The plan is a three strike plan and shall
include, but is not limited to, the following essential elements: A description of the problem behavior, a description of the desired behavior,
specific actions the student will take to correct
the problem behavior, resources and support
needed, incentives for success, a statement of
consequences for non-compliance, a time frame
for the plan’s duration, and signatures of participants. In the event that a student transfers within
the District and a remedial discipline plan has
been developed or recommended for development, the receiving school shall enforce the remedial discipline plan or, in conjunction with a
representative from the sending school, shall
complete the remedial discipline plan.
ATTENDANCE PROCEDURES
Parents should call the school at 328-3813 on
the day their child is to be absent stating the reason their student is not attending school that
day. The school’s answering machine will take
calls when the school office is not open. Parents
may also send a note with their child when he or
she returns. If the school’s attendance secretary
has not received a call or a note, either she or
the attendance machine will call the parents. It is
very important that absences are defined appropriately. If the reason for the absence is not in
accordance with state policy, the absence will be
defined as unexcused.
ATTENDANCE TYPES
Holmes shall keep a record of absences based
upon the following classifications:
Unexcused Absences (A)… Any unexcused
absence shall be considered as “truant.” Truancies will be counted toward a student’s declaration as “habitually truant,” as defined in BOE file
JH & JH-R.
STUDENT ATTENDANCE
ATTENDANCE POLICY
The Colorado School Attendance Law is
compulsory. Students are required by law to
be in attendance for a minimum of 1056 hours
per school year. Students are expected to be in
attendance unless they are ill or have family
emergencies. Pre-arranged absences for essential appointments or family concerns are possible, but parents are encouraged to schedule all
Excused Absences (E)… Any absence that is
excused by a parent or guardian within 48 hour
of an absence. Some absences may require
documentation to be excused.
19
Prearranged Absence (P)… any time a student
is knowingly going to be absent for 3 days or
more parents must contact the Attendance Office and prearrange the absence.
Students who accrue 4 days of unexcused absences in a month or 10 days in a year will be
identified as Habitually Truant.
School Related Absences (F)… Absences related to school activities (i.e. field trips, athletic
and musical events, speech, etc.) may be classified as fully excused or excused with reservation
on a case by case basis.
GRANTING EXCUSED ABSENCE FROM
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Long-term excused absence from physical education may be granted on written request of a
licensed medical practitioner. Such requests
must state that participation in the physical education program would be detrimental to the student’s physical health.
Weather related Absence (W)
Absences due to severe weather conditions may
be excused on a case by case basis, at the Administrator/Principal's discretion, depending on
the students attendance record. Parents/
guardians exercising their best judgment may
keep their child home from school because severe weather conditions exist.
INCLEMENT WEATHER PROCEDURE
Parents and Students are expected to:

EXCESSIVE ABSENCES
Students who miss excessive amounts of
school will be contacted by one of the assistant principals or other school personnel to
ascertain if there is a concern in which the
school may be of help. Parents will receive a
letter updating them on the number of absences
their student has had when the number of absences exceeds four unexcused absences per
month, ten per year, or excessive excused absences of 10% or more of a marking period. Students may be deemed as Habitually Truant or
Chronically Absent and will be required to provide doctor’s excuses in order to have additional
absences excused. Students may be placed on
attendance contracts and/or behavior plans, or
be taken to attendance hearings. We know you
realize that regular attendance is a very important factor in academic success and that you
will encourage your child to attend school regularly.
Stay current on information of school delays
or closures by accessing the internet, listening to or watching the news broadcasts on
stormy mornings
In the event school-starting time is DELAYED for
safety reasons:
District Eleven will:
 Decide to delay school by 2 HOURS and announce the decision no later than 5:30 AM
 Run buses on the same routes as normal but
2 HOURS later
 Begin school for all students 2 HOURS later
than each school’s normal time
 Dismiss schools at the normal dismissal
times and run after-school buses on the
same routes and at the same times as normal
In the event schools are CANCELED for the
day:
District Eleven will:

TRUANCY

Students who choose to not attend school, skip
class, or do not get absences excused will be
considered truant. Students who are found to be
skipping will receive discipline.
20
Make the decision to close no later than 5:30
AM and call 14 radio stations, 3 TV stations,
City Line (630-1111, ext. 5005) and City
Source (444-2567, ext. 198)
If school is canceled, all after-school and
evening meetings, activities and community
classes will also be canceled
A student will be given the opportunity to
makeup work missed for full credit, whether the
absence is excused, unexcused or due to suspension. It is the responsibility of the student
and the parent to initiate requests for makeup
work. Makeup work should be requested from
the attendance office if the student has been absent from school for three or more days or if it is
known in advance that he/she will be out three or
more days. When the student returns, makeup
work should be turned in and the student should
check with their teachers to see if any other work
is due. Students have one day for every day
they are absent to makeup the work missed.
ILLNESS DURING THE DAY
If a student becomes ill at school, he or she
should report immediately to the office. A staff
member will contact the parent, if needed. Students should not call a parent about illness without permission from the office. This way, the office will know whether to expect a parent, should
a parent need to come pick up their child due to
illness. A student will be allowed to spend 15
minutes in the infirmary and a parent may be
contacted. After this time the student may be
sent back to class. The student is NOT ALLOWED TO LEAVE UNTIL THE PARENT OR
GUARDIAN COMES TO THE ATTENDANCE
OFFICE AND SIGNS THE STUDENT OUT. This
is for the student’s protection. Should a student
feel too ill to come to the office, send someone
to the office to get help. Students will not be excused for illness if they stay in the restroom for
an extended period of time or the entire period. It
will be considered truancy if this is done. No
medication may be administered by any school
personnel including the nurse, except on the
written orders of a physician. No medication,
prescription or over-the-counter may be possessed by students while on school grounds, at
school activities, on school buses or at the
school bus stop.
TARDIES
Tardy is defined as not being in the classroom
and prepared for class at the appropriate time.
Tardiness is considered a disruption and will not
be tolerated by the classroom teacher.

Tardies are handled on a quarterly basis

1st tardy-verbal warning and review expectations to avoid future violations
 2nd tardy-verbal warning and parent contact
 3rd tardy-Level 1 referral, parent contact, detention
 4th tardy-Level 2 ODR-office discipline referral
Unexcused arrival in class after half the period
has elapsed will be considered an unexcused
absence.
LATE ARRIVAL OR EARLY DISMISSAL
If it is essential that a student leave school during school hours, parents must call or send a
note with the student, who should present this
note to the attendance secretary and obtain a
yellow slip to allow the student to leave school.
Likewise, if a student arrives to school late due
to an appointment or family emergency, they
need to check in with the attendance secretary
to receive a slip to be taken to their class.
CHANGE OF PARENT CONTACT
It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian of a
student to notify the Attendance Office within 5
school days of any change in address or telephone number. If there is a change in custody or
parental rights pertaining to a child, legal documentation will be required.
ATTENDANCE AND MAKEUP WORK
Classroom attendance is directly related to
grade achievement and overall educational success. To reinforce the importance of consistent
attendance the following regulations for makeup
work are in effect:
21
ACADEMICS
State Assessments
MID-QUARTER REPORTS
The primary purpose of evaluation and grading
student performance, work and behavior is to
communicate to students and parents how well
students are doing with their school responsibilities. Core teachers will give mid-quarter reports
to students after the fourth week of each quarter.
These reports will include the grade-to-date, attendance and comments. It is very important
that parents keep track of the dates that these
slips are to be brought home. The purpose of
the reports is to keep parents informed of their
student’s progress.
Colorado’s state assessments are changing
in order to accurately assess student mastery of the updated Colorado Academic
Standards. With the standards being more
focused, coherent and rigorous, assessments must adapt to align with the standards. Colorado’s new assessment system is
called the Colorado Measures of Academic
Success (CMAS). It incorporates new science and social studies assessments developed by Colorado and new English language arts and mathematics assessments
developed by the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers
(PARCC).
REPORT CARDS
HOMEWORK POLICY
st
nd
rd
The staff at Holmes adheres to the Board of
Education policy that recognizes the importance of encouraging homework as part
of the learning activities initiated in the
classroom. Homework serves a valid purpose because it provides practice in needed
skills, enriches and extends the school experience, develops responsibility, and brings
students in contact with out-of-school learning resources. In addition, “homework and
practice”, is one of the nine, researchedbased McRel strategies which strongly effect on student achievement.
At the end of the 1 , 2 and 3 quarter, as well
as at mid-quarter, students are given their report
cards to take home. The 4th quarter report cards
are mailed home.
Q - Parent Connect
Parents will be able to access student information via the internet, they will have access to
student, assignments that are updated weekly,
and attendance, discipline. Parents will need to
provide a valid ID at the Media Center to obtain
a pin number.
Because of the variety of interdisciplinary
units covered in each team and material
covered in each subject, the amount of
homework for each student will vary from
day to day and week to week.
MAPs Tests
These tests are given in the fall and spring of
each year to determine each student’s instructional level. They measure academic growth
throughout the school year and from year to year
in the areas of mathematics, reading and language usage. They are aligned with the district
curriculum for the three content areas. MAPs
tests are adaptive tests that are administered on
a computer which means the test becomes more
difficult with correct answers or easier when a
child answers incorrectly.
The recommended nightly homework time
for academics including 15 minutes of reading, for each grade level is as follows:
6th grade – 60 minutes
7th grade – 75 minutes
8th grade – 90 minutes
This is an average time for homework completion, but the actual time needed to complete homework may be more or less, depending on the ability of the student. For
22
students in Advanced classes, homework
should be more challenging and simultaneous
class projects may occur. In exploratory classes,
there may be additional homework so students
may prepare for tests, review class notes or textbooks, or to practice their musical instruments.
This time is above and beyond the average stated times listed above for academics.
D
60%-69%
F
0%-59%
*Some advanced classes will deviate from the
above because of their accelerated curriculum.
Proficiency Grade Scale
Advanced
4
Proficient
3
Partially Proficient
2
Unsatisfactory
1
LATEWORK
In all subject areas, late work can be accepted
for 70% of the points earned. Any work not
turned in on the assigned due date must be
completed and turned in the first school day
of the following week to receive 70% of points
earned.
Citizenship Grade
Students are also given a citizenship score.
These grades reflect regular attendance, effort,
courtesy, and compliance with school regulations. They range from a high of 5 to a low of 1.
Note: very few students will receive a 5 (please
see page 26 for the Citizenship Grade Rubric.)
RE-DOING AN ASSIGNMENT
PARENT’S ROLL IN SUPPORTING ACADEMICS
Our goal is to have students demonstrate proficiency of standards and skills. A student is expected to “re-do” summative assessments when
the student has scored below 70% or below proficient. The student must complete a teacher
approved plan prior to re-take. Re-do’s must be
completed within a timeframe as determined by
the teacher. Note: Students are expected to appropriately prepare themselves for the initial assessment. Any student abusing the re-do policy
may forfeit this privilege and opportunity.

Set up proper study area

Establish daily homework time

Check agenda and teacher web sites on a
regular basis


GRADING POLICY
Holmes Middle School encourages academic
excellence, along with the growth and development of student character. As a result students
receive two grades: Academic Letter Grades and
Citizenship Grades. The scale below provides
information relating to the school-wide grading
scale.
Use Parent Connect to track assignments
Communicate with teachers if you have concerns
 Make sure you see the completed assignment
 Hold your child accountable for turning in assignments.
During the designated time, the child should first
do any assigned homework for that night before
doing late work. To maintain good study habits,
parents are encouraged to provide a consistent
study atmosphere. A minimum of fifteen minutes
a night should be devoted to recreational reading.
Grading Scale:
DISTRICT RETENTION POLICY
A retention policy has been established for Holmes
Middle School so that you know the consequences of
failing grades. Students who fail (F) half or more of
their academic core classes, based on their grades for
Letter Grade Scale
A
B
C
90%-100%
80%-89%
70%-79%
23
each quarter during the school year, will be considered for retention.
Students who are at risk of not meeting performance requirements will be identified as early as
possible. Teachers and counselors will meet
with parents to provide information on programs,
which are available to assist the student such as
special programs, and tutoring. Parents will work
with the teacher and school personnel to support
the student in meeting required proficiency levels. Teachers will keep parents apprised of student progress. The final decision to promote the
student to the next grade shall rest upon the results of Light’s Retention Scale.
Book – one author
Woolf, Leonard. Beginning Again. London: Hogarth Press, 1964.
Book – editor
Anderson, J.M.D., ed. The World’s Religions.
London: Inter-Varsity Fellowship, 1950.
Encyclopedia – signed article
Carr, J.W. “Bears of the Arctic.” Encyclopedia
Britannica, 1972, Vol. IV, pp. 36-38.
Magazine or Newspaper – signed article
Fowler, Thomas. “Jazz Festivals of the Decade.”
Rolling Stone. April 1989, pp. 1-4.
CORNELL NOTE TAKING
This use of note taking is encouraged for all students at Holmes. It is a two-column format to
assist students with organization of content material. Ideas, questions or concepts are written
on the left-hand side. Supporting details and
information are on the right. Often, students are
required to summarize major learning at the bottom of the notes. “Summarizing/note taking” is
also one of the nine, researched-based McRel
strategies that have a strong effect on student
achievement.
Magazine or Newspaper – unsigned article
“Troubled UN” Reader’s Digest, November 1952,
pp. 111-112.
Magazine Article on the Web (online
base)
Schaller, George B. “Realm of the Snow
lope.” Natural History May 1996: 48. MAS
School Edition. EBSCOhost. 15 Apr.
<http://search.epnet.com/>.
NAME
SUBJECT
TOPIC
QUESTIONS:
NOTES:
Main ideas, topics, questions,
key words, vocabulary,
formulas, subtitles etc. are
listed in the left hand column .
Notes go here, in the large right hand column. Use
only words, phrases, abbreviations, pictures,
diagrams.
1. Question
1. Answer to the question
2. Vocabulary/keyword
2. Definition of the word
3. Formulas
3. Use of the formula
4. Main idea
4. Explanation of the main idea and examples
5. Subtopic/subtitle
5. Explanation of the subtopic/subtitle
PROPER HEADING FOR PAPERS
The following heading is uniform for all grades and
subjects:
Date
Name
Period
Subject
SUMMARY

Summary is added at the end of ALL note pages on the
subject (not at the end of each page).

Summary added AFTER notes are finished.
AnteUltra2003
Interview
Heinlein, Robert. Interviewed by (your name).
Broadmoor Hotel, Colorado Springs, Colorado, 2
p.m., April 7, 1993.
Two-Column Note-Taking Process
DATE
PERIOD
data-
Assignment
CITATION EXAMPLES
Book – no author
Atlas of Endangered Species. New York: Macmillan, 1991.
24
HOLMES MIDDLE SCHOOL CITIZENSHIP RUBRIC
Each marking period your student receives a citizenship grade in addition to their letter grade for each
class. Our teaching staff uses the following rubric to determine the citizenship portion of your student’s
grade. This should help you understand why your student received a particular citizenship grade.
CITIZENSHIP 1
CITIZENSHIP 2
CITIZENSHIP 3
CITIZENSHIP 4
CITIZENSHIP 5
Consistently disrespectful to others
Frequently disrespect- Usually treats others
ful to others
with respect
Consistently treats
others with respect
Consistently unprepared for class
Frequently unprepared for class
Consistently prepared Always prepared for
for class
class
Consistently lacks
completion of daily
assigned tasks
Frequently lacks com- Usually committed to
pletion of daily asthe completion of
signed tasks
daily assigned tasks
Usually prepared for
class
Always treats others
with respect
Consistently commit- Always committed to
ted to the completion the completion of
of daily assigned tasks daily assigned tasks
Consistently observed Frequently observed
not doing his/her best not doing his/her best
work
work
Usually observed doing his/her best work
Consistently observed Always observed dodoing his/her best
ing his/her best work
work
Consistently careless
with school property
Frequently careless
with school property
Usually takes care of
school property
Consistently takes
Always takes care of
care of school proper- school property
ty
Consistently uncooperative with teachers
and classmates
Frequently uncooperative with teachers
and classmates
Usually cooperative
with teachers and
classmates
Consistently coopera- Always cooperative
tive with teachers and with teachers and
classmates
classmates
Consistently shows
irresponsibility in his/
her learning, behaviors, actions and decisions
Frequently shows
irresponsibility in his/
her learning, behaviors, actions and decisions
Usually shows responsibility in his/her
learning, behaviors,
actions and decisions
Consistently shows
responsibility in his/
her learning, behaviors, actions and decisions
Always shows responsibility in his/her
learning, behaviors,
actions and decisions
Consistently fails to
follow school and
classroom rules
Frequently fails to
follow school and
classroom rules
Usually follows
school and classroom
rules
Consistently follows
school and classroom
rules
Always follows
school and classroom
rules
Consistently tardy w/
frequent absences
Frequently tardy or
absent
Usually prompt to
class, few absences
Consistently prompt
Always has excellent
to class with very few attendance—no unexabsences
cused absences or
tardies
HOLMES HAWK-OF-THE-MONTH
Students that consistently display “Hawk” or exemplary citizenship characteristics in and outside of the
classroom are nominated to be Hawks. They receive a Holmes bumper sticker. A picture of each student is on display in the school hallway recognizing him/her as a Holmes Hawk of the Month.
25
Personally Owned Electronic Devices
Agreement
2015-2016 School Year
Colorado Springs School District 11 and Holmes Middle School recognize and appreciate that students and staff are
willing to bring in electronic devices that are personally owned to be used for schoolwork and to enhance educational opportunities. Users are expected to use the District 11 network and Internet access through the district system to
further educational and personal goals consistent with the mission of the District 11 and the district policies. Accessing the District 11 wired and wireless network and access including the use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right.
Responsibilities come with this privilege:
A privately owned electronic device can be connected to the District 11 wireless and wired network, including to the
Internet, under the following conditions:
 Users of the electronic device must adhere to the D11’s Acceptable Use Agreement (AUA).
 Privately owned computers must have updated virus detection software prior to accessing the network or internet. The device will not be allowed to connect without virus detection software.
 Access passwords are changed frequently so see your teacher or library technology staff for current password.
Hardware Expectations

Each User must supply all necessary hardware, software and cabling for use of their electronic device.
Uses of Electronic Devices



Staff and students may use personally owned electronic devices on the District network, wired and wireless, for
professional or career development, classroom activities and other defined educational purposes.
Staff and student may use the District’s educational technology resources primarily for educational purposes,
however, personal incidental use is allowed on a limited basis except for, but not limited to, the downloading or
streaming or digital content such as videos and music for entertainment purposes.
Some uses or access to information may not be acceptable when utilizing the District network that are considered acceptable on a user’s private account at home or on another system. Users should be cognizant of educational uses on the District network.
Virus Protection Software



Antivirus software must be installed and up-to-date on personally owned electronic devises.
When logging into the network, wired and wireless, the personally owned electronic device will be scanned for
virus protection software. If this software is not apparent, the device will not be allowed to connect.
User will be prompted to go home, purchase virus protection software, return the next day and log in again.
Copyright and Pirating

Software residing on privately owned devices must be personally owned, including but not limited to programs,
applications (apps) and music.
Misuse




Students and staff will conduct themselves within the guidelines of the Acceptable User Agreement (AUA).
Violations of the Acceptable User Agreement on personally owned electronic devices when using the District
network, wired and wireless, may also result in disciplinary action in coordination with policies set forth by
School District 11’s Board of Education and/or by the individual school; this may include but is not limited to
removal of all access rights to School District 11’s network or the confiscation of the electronic device.
If a student is suspected of inappropriate use with their personally owned electronic device, the student will be
asked to power down the device and hand it to the person of authority (i.e. teacher or principal). The parent or
designee will be notified, and it is the responsibility of the parent or designee to pick up the student’s electronic
device from the school.
If deemed necessary, the Colorado Springs Police Department will become involved with the investigation of
the violation.
26
Personally Owned Electronic Devices
Agreement continued
Security



Personally owned electronic devices that are accessing the D11 network, wired and wireless are expected to
follow all policies in line with the Acceptable User Agreement (AUA ).
The student / staff person is responsible for the security of personal equipment when it is not being used.
District 11 does not guarantee the privacy or security of any item stored on or transmitted by any privately
owned devices.
Network Stability
As it relates to privately owned computers being used in the School District 11 facilities or on School District 11 networks wired or wireless, School District 11 schools reserves to the right to:

Monitor activity, either Internet access or intranet access, through the school district’s proxy server or intranet
access on the school’s file servers.

Make determination on whether specific uses of the device are consistent with the District’s Acceptable User
Agreement.

Log network use and monitor storage disk space utilized by users of personal devices on the School District 11
network.

Deem what is appropriate for use of personal computers on District property or on the School District 11 network.

Remove the user’s access to the network and suspend the right to use the personally owned devices in District
facilities at any time it is determined that the user is engaged in unauthorized activity or is violating the Acceptable User Agreement.

Violation of the Acceptable User Agreement on personal electronic devices may also result in disciplinary action in coordination with policies set forth by District’s Board of Education or by the individual school; this may
include but is not limited to removal of all access rights to District network.

Any damage to personal devices caused by use on the District network is the responsibility of the owner.
Liability for Personal Property

A student or staff person who brings their personally owned electronic device to school is solely responsible for
the equipment.


Any damage to the equipment is the responsibility of the individual.

Any user accessing the District’s educational technology via a personally owned device releases the District
from liability for any damage, loss or injury caused or indirectly caused to the personally owned device by the
use of the educational technology (i.e. a virus).
The procedure with any theft in the District is to inform the front office of the school, who will call District 11 Security Department at 719-520-2287. A security officer will be dispatched to the location to take a District 11
case report. The victim of the theft must then contact the Colorado Springs Police Department to file a criminal
theft report. If the theft occurs at a high school or middle school, the victim can contact the school campus security officer and the police school resource officer to assist them.
Repairs and Upgrades

Responsibility for the maintenance and repair of the equipment rests solely with the student/staff person.
Student and parent signature are required on the Holmes Student Handbook Acknowledgment form.
27
ACCEPTABLE USE AGREEMENT FOR STUDENTS
Guidelines
I agree to abide by all school rules, District policies, and local, state, and federal laws while using District educational technology resources.
I will abide by copyright law and will give credit to authors, artists, illustrators, photographers, and other creators of
information when I use their intellectual property.
I understand that I may use the District’s educational technology resources primarily for educational purposes, however, personal incidental use is allowed on a limited basis except for, but not limited to, the downloading or streaming of digital content such as videos and music for entertainment purposes.
I understand that I may not use District educational technology resources for conducting a personal for-profit business.
I will not attempt to access, read, view, or copy inappropriate or pornographic pictures or information.
I will not use educational technology resources to hurt, harass or bully District staff and students and their family
members, including when I use social networking sites either inside or outside of school
I will report anyone who uses or tries to use District educational technology resources to hurt, harass or bully me.
I will not share my password with others. I could be held responsible for damage incurred using or when
using my password. I will not pretend to be someone else when using District educational technology resources.
I will not read, copy, or damage the work of other students.
I will not give out my name, password, address or any other personal information to someone I don’t know either on
the Internet or by e-mail.
I will not use improper language (i.e. swearing, vulgarity, ethnic or racial slurs, name calling) and any other use of
language that violates a school or District policy, regulation, practice, rule or expectation.
I will not spread falsehoods about a person that lowers the affected individual in the eyes of the community.
I will not disrupt the District’s network including, but not limited to, seeking or obtaining unauthorized access to others’ files, documents or other communications, or sending or forwarding chain letters or large files to other, or introducing malware, worms, Trojans, or viruses.
I will not upload, download or install personal software on the District network unless specifically authorized.
I will not copy computer programs.
I will practice personal responsibility with regard to theft prevention if I bring personally-owned electronic devices to
school; and I will abide by my school’s rules for current practices regarding use of personal electronic devices at my
school.
I will not try to block or get around the filters on the District’s educational technology resources.
Knowledge Base
I understand that the District’s hardware, software, and network may not work every day.
I understand that sometimes digital files may be lost, and it is my responsibility to back-up my work.
I understand that I am responsible for verifying information and using credible resources on the internet.
I understand that educational technology resources belong to the District and that using them is a privilege, not a
right.
I understand and agree that other people may look at the information or messages created, sent or received by me
on District computer equipment or other educational technology, including, but not limited to, e-mail messages, text
messages, sites I have visited on the internet, and files I have uploaded or downloaded on the internet; at any documents created by me; and at any postings I have made to social network sites or blogs, chat rooms, or online websites, and I consent to the District looking at such information, messages, documents and postings.
Damaging the District’s Educational Technology Resources or Network
I might not be allowed to use the District’s educational technology resources if I break these rules.
I may have to pay for any damage I cause.
I may be suspended or expelled from school if I damage hardware, software, or the network.
Student and parent signature are required on the Holmes Student Handbook Acknowledgment Form.
28