About us contains information also found in Student & Parent Handbook 2008-2009
Mission Statement:
“Our East Selkirk Middle School Community of students, staff and parents is committed to creating a safe and caring and learning environment. All learners will develop their intellectual, social, emotional, physical and creative potential. As lifelong learners, students will become productive global citizens and appreciate cultural diversity.”
PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE
At East Selkirk Middle School, we recognize that middle year age students are making critical life choices. This is an important stage in terms of forming attitudes, values and habits. Students are affected both physically and emotionally and this brings about challenges not only for the students, but also the parents and teachers. For middle years schools to be successful their students must be successful, for students to be successful the school’s organization, curriculum and programs must be based on the needs of these kids. Students at this stage of development need caring, support and understanding as well as structure and fair discipline if they are to succeed.
Schools and teachers need to ask the question when dealing with certain ideas:
What is the ultimate purpose?
What are we trying to accomplish?
We hope that students, parents and staff will work hard to make this a reality. Parents should feel free to contact the school at any time.
I wish students, parents and staff many successes in the up coming year.
Mr. R. Hummelt
Principal
SCHOOL-WIDE BEHAVIOR SUPPORT SYSTEM
What is it?
School-wide system of simple, clear rules/ expectations is known by ALL students and ALL staff and ALL settings.
It utilizes behavioral strategies that support our vision of effectively utilizing the instructional day and year to increase student success.
It involves a team approach-students, staff, and parents.
What are the components of the system?
1. We define expected behaviors-Be Safe, Be Responsible, Be Respectful, and be a Learner/Achiever.
For Example:
Be Safe
Keep yourself and others safe
Make wise choices that are safe for yourself and others, for ex. Smoking, drinking, drugs, peers etc.
Be Responsible
Be on time to school in the morning
Care for school property and personal property
Complete all classroom assignments and homework
Be Respectful
Be courteous, caring and polite to others
Demonstrate a positive attitude
Be a Learner/Achiever
Enter classrooms quietly and ready to learn
Always work to the best of your ability
2. We teach expected behaviors in related settings, i.e. playground, bus, lunch area, library, office classrooms, assemblies, etc.
3. We acknowledge appropriate expected behavior through tangible rewards/acknowledgments (hawkeyes, assembly presentations, awards day etc.)
4. We correct and apply consequences for inappropriate behavior.
Why do we use it?
1. Creates a safe school learning environment
2. Enables the staff to teach, and students to learn
3. Decreases discipline referrals
4. Encourages positive, pro-social behavior throughout the school organization
In addition to general school expectations, all classroom teachers set standards within their classrooms that support the motto-
Be Safe, Be Responsible, Be Respectful, Be a Learner/Achiever.
Students at E.S.M.S. are R.A.R.E.
They are:
Responsible: for their Actions, Decisions, Learning and Preparation
Achievers: by Attending through Effort and by Excellence in: Academics, Arts, Sports, Community
Respectful to: Yourself - Building - Property - Others (Staff, Visitors, Students)
Experiencing by trying new things: Sports. Arts, Human Ec./Tech. Ec., Clubs, Leadership, Humanitarian, Band, Drama
E.S.M.S. OBJECTIVES
E – EXCELLENCE IN ACADEMICS
Students are expected to complete the entire curriculum to the best of their ability.
Students are expected to attend all classes and be on time.
Students that are away are expected to complete all missed work.
Students are expected to be prepared for all classes.
Students are expected to put forth their best effort into their work and use class time effectively.
S – SOCIALIZATION
Students are expected to respect all students, staff members, support staff, guest teachers and guests in our building.
Students are expected to take “ownership” or be “responsible for” all school materials, textbooks, furniture and supplies.
Students are expected to be responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the building and the school grounds.
Students are expected to respect people’s personal space. (Be Safe)
Students are expected to be tolerant of others’ abilities and beliefs.
M – MOTIVATION
Students will be offered a variety of programs, at levels appropriate to the students.
Specialty areas (art, drama, technical education, human ecology, life skills etc.) will be integrated into other curriculum areas making it relevant for the students.
Students will be recognized for their positive behaviour and accomplishments. “Students of the Month”
Certificates for accomplishments. (Honours, Achievement etc.)
S – SUCCESS
Students will have access to quiet areas to complete work.
Resource teachers will help staff and students plan academic programs that will meet the needs of all students.
A Counselor will be available to assist students in dealing with personal or school related matters.
Students will be offered nutritional foods in school, canteen, drink machines, etc.
Grade sharing and teacher teams will work together to implement integration across the curriculum.
AGENDAS
Please note, we require all students to use student agendas. Students are charged $7.00 per agenda. These agendas are available to assist students in their organization and to provide students with a vehicle of communication between home and school.
THE MIDDLE YEARS PROGRAM
All students take Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Health and Physical Education. The grade 5 & 6 classes take French, Art and Band/Music. The grade 5-8 classes take Home Economics, Technical Education, French, and Ukrainian Program. Students select Band or Art. Learning Centers are for students requiring extra help, are recommended with Resource and Administrator approval.
THE GRADE 9 PROGRAM
Grade 9 is part of the High School program. Students receive credits for courses successfully completed. Compulsory Grade 9 credits that must be completed in order to graduate from high school are: Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Physical Education and Health. Introduction to Techno-Communications will be taken by all students for one credit. Students are to take two of the following electives in their Grade 9 year: Band, Art, Home Economics, Tech Ed. or French.
PROGRAMS
East Selkirk Middle School is a dual track school. In addition to the regular English language program, our school offers Ukrainian Immersion in grades 5 and 6, with electives in grades 7, 8 and 9. Please call our school for further information.
Language Arts:
Communication skills in writing, reading, listening and speaking are taught. Skills and concepts developed in spelling, composition, grammar, reading, drama, novels, short stories and debating.
Ukrainian:
A continuation of the Ukrainian program is offered in grades 5 and 6 and offered as an elective in grades 7, 8 and 9. The course integrates speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.
French:
A continuation of the Basic French program offered in grades 5 and 6. The course integrates speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.
Social Studies:
A study of the relationship between people and their government from a geographical and historical viewpoint.
Mathematics:
The emphasis is upon establishing a firm foundation in calculating with whole number, fractions, decimals and percent. Various materials and activities are provided to help students advance according to their abilities and already acquired skills. Algebra and geometry are also introduced.
Science:
The program covers the following topics: Earth and space science, biology, ecology, physics and chemistry. Students are involved in observing, classifying, measuring, collecting and interpreting data.
Physical Education:
Students are required to change for all Phys. Ed. classes and gym activities such as Intramurals. Proper attire includes a T-shirt, athletic style shorts or sweats and clean safe non marking running shoes. Jewelry may not be worn. Students must dress appropriately for outdoor activities. Long hair must be tied back for safety concerns.
This program involves a wide range of activities including individual and team sports and games as well as lifetime activities. Team sports before and after school as well as intramural activities will be offered throughout the year. Students are encouraged to take part in these opportunities made available.
Swimming is a compulsory part of the Phys. Ed. Program in grades 5 and 7 only. Swimsuits and towels must be provided by each student from home.
Human Ecology:
The program consists of foods and nutrition, clothing and textiles courses and Family Studies. The courses are designed to give students practical experience, to apply knowledge and to use the decision making process in family living conditions.
Technical Education:
The program includes graphic arts, woodworking and metalworking. The intent is to give students introductory training in the use and care of basic hand and power tools.
Art:
This course consists of drawing, painting, crafts, pottery and metal sculpture. Exposure, explorations and successful experiences are more important than developing a high degree of proficiency in any one area.
Information & Communication Technology:
ESMS has two computer labs. One for Introduction to Technical Communications for L.A. and S.S. where activities like Desk Top Publishing (DTP), research, web page design, movie editing, class/school newspaper, brochure design and other options like Radio/TV Communications – Broadcasting using mock radio and TV sets as they are developed. A music theory software program will be introduced to grades 5 and 6.
The second lab is specifically for applied Math and Science. ESMS has computer guided learning (CGL) math available for grades 7, 8 and 9. There will also be a Lego/Dacta/Mindstorm (robotics, programming, design) component developed.
ESMS believes that technology is a tool to complement the classroom curriculum. A Technology facilitator is available to assist staff in planning and teaching and introducing new software as it becomes available.
Band:
Beginning in grade 5, students will take both band and music. In grade 7, 8 and 9 students may choose band as an elective. Concerts are held during the year. In addition, Jazz Band or small ensembles may meet at noon hours or after school. Band students are usually involved in festivals and special events.
Health:
In each of the grades, topics are covered into the areas of social-emotional well-being, physical well-being, nutrition, dental health, safety and environmental health. Family life education and aids education are optional parts of this program, taught only to students whose parents have given written permission.
Life Skills:
The Special Education Teacher and Educational Assistants provide students with hands-on learning of daily living and vocational skills.
Study Hall/Library:
Study Hall/Library is available to students at noon hour to complete assignments.
ASSESSMENT/EVALUATION
Student Evaluation/Reporting:
Student progress is evaluated on a continuous basis in all subject areas. Methods of assessment include tests, daily work, projects, written assignments, and oral presentations. Final exams will be written in June.
There will be three formal reporting periods: November, March and June. Students are graded in all subjects. Parents are encouraged to discuss with the teacher their child’s progress at anytime during the year. Parent conference dates are listed in the important dates section.
STUDENT SERVICES
A Student Services Team has been established in our school. The personnel involved in this team are:
Administration |
Ron Hummelt – Principal Terry Skarban – Vice Principal |
Guidance Counselor |
Greg Udod |
Resource Team |
Brenda Johannson Bill Chabluk |
Clinicians |
Al Kircher – Psychologist Bruce Sommers – Social Worker Wendy Whall Paulson – Speech and Language Pathologist Julie Zimmerman – Occupational Therapist Carol Fraser – Occupational Therapist |
URIS Nurse |
Colleen Jenkinson |
Outside/Community Agencies |
Addictions Foundation of Manitoba Child and Family Services RCMP MATC – Manitoba Adolescent Treatment Centre |
Resource: Resource Teachers help staff and students to plan academic programs that will meet the needs, interests and abilities of all students.
Guidance: The counselor is available to assist students in dealing with personal or school related matters.
A URIS Nurse visits the school on a regular basis to consult with staff and meet with students who have health concerns.
A Community-School Family Worker assists students and their families. Addiction Foundation Counselor for Youth is available through AFM in Selkirk. Referrals can be made by parents or staff.
Clinicians – Staff members from the School Division’s Student Support Centre visit our school regularly. They assist the school with programming for students. Speech and language development, Occupational Therapy/Physio Therapy, and Psychologists are some of the services available to our school.
RCMP Liaison is a program whereby a member of the force is a liaison to our school to make classroom presentations or to answer questions from students and staff.
GENERAL INFORMATION AND PROCEDURES
Attendance:
Students are expected to be in their classes on time. Attendance is taken in the morning and afternoon. Parents should inform the school when a student is absent. A note, signed by parents, should state the reason for the absence. Any students who are absent should arrange for homework and assignments to be sent home or to be picked up at the office.
Bicycles:
Bikes brought to the school must be parked at the bike racks and locked. Bikes should not be used except to come to and from school. Bikes should be walked during school bus loading.
Code of Conduct:
Refer to Divisional Pamphlet
Daily Schedule:
8:50 |
Students enter classrooms |
8:55-9:05 |
Opening Exercises |
9:05-9:45 |
Period 1 |
9:45-10:25 |
Period 2 |
10:25-10:35 |
Break |
10:35-11:15 |
Period 3 |
11:15-11:55 |
Period 4 |
11:55-12:10 |
Lunch |
12:10-12:50 |
Free Time/Intramurals |
12:45 |
Bell – students go to class |
12:50-1:30 |
Period 5 |
1:30-2:10 |
Period 6 |
2:10-2:20 |
Break |
2:20-2:55 |
Period 7 |
2:55-3:35 |
Period 8 |
Emergency Closure:
In case of school closure, radio stations CBC, CKY, CJOB, CBW, CFRW and CFQX-FM will make announcements beginning at 7:00 a.m.
Fire Drills and Emergency Evacuation:
Ten fire drills will be held during the year. Students are expected to evacuate the building in a quiet and orderly manner. Students must wear footwear in classes at all times.
At least one Code Red and one Code Green Emergency Procedure will be held each year. Parents will be notified prior to the event.
Hawkline:
The Hawkline will be distributed to the youngest family member on the third Thursday of each month. Students and parents are asked to check the publication for important dates and upcoming events.
Leaving the School:
Bus students must remain on the school property unless accompanied by a parent, teacher or designated person. Students/parents must check in with the office when leaving. Parents who are picking up their children during the day must check in at the office. The office will contact the class. Students must register in the Sign In/Out Book in the office when arriving late or leaving early.
Library Books:
Books are available for students to borrow, and should be returned promptly or a renewal arranged. There is a fine for overdue books for students. Lost or damaged books will be assessed a replacement or repair fee.
Lockers:
Lockers are assigned to all students. Students share lockers with a partner. The lock rental fee is $6.00 per year for grade 5, $5.00 for grade 6 and $4.00 for grade 7. There are no refunds. Only school locks may be used on lockers, and any locker changes must be approved by an administrator. Lockers should be kept tidy. Periodic checks will be made by home room teachers. Valuable items should not be stored in lockers.
School administration reserves the right to open student lockers.
Lunch time Activities:
There are a number of lunch time activities where students will be expected to keep themselves busy. They have the option of going outside or they may remain inside in the library or study hall only.
Medication:
Parents are encouraged to develop medication schedules so that it is not necessary for students to take medications while at school. For minor periodic medications, such as cough syrup, parents should include a single dosage in their son’s/daughter’s lunch kit. In cases where medication must be taken at school on an ongoing basis, a Medication Form should be completed and returned to the school. Such medication must be secured in the office.
Office:
When students report to the office it will be because of discipline reasons, to use the telephone or to get information for themselves, parents or teachers. There is virtually no reason to have large groups of students congregating at the office. There are two secretaries available to address the needs of the students and appropriate behaviour is expected from the students while waiting for assistance.
Skateboards:
Skateboards are not allowed on buses or school property.
School Accident Insurance:
School Accident Insurance policies are available from private insurers each fall. The policy offers 24 hour coverage and parents are encouraged to consider this insurance. All students wishing to participate on school teams must have accident insurance.
School Buses:
Riding on the bus is a privilege; improper conduct on the bus will result in the withdrawal of bus riding privileges. Loss of bus privileges will begin on the fourth bus report for grade 5 and 6 students and on the third bus report for 7 – 9 students.
5 & 6 students: 1st-3rd reports – warning
4th report – 5 days
5th report – 10 days
6th report – 20 day - meeting with board
7th report – suspended indefinitely
7-9 students: 1st-2nd reports – warning
3rd report – 5 days
4th report – 20 days – meeting with board
5th report – suspended indefinitely
*An immediate suspension may be implemented if the bus report is of a very serious nature. Students riding school buses must have a single designated drop off and pick up point on a specific bus route. Variations to this (such as using a different bus or getting off at a different stop) may be granted once or twice per year, and only for exceptional circumstances. Permission for such variations is given by a school administrator, provided a written note with the following information – regular bus #, requested bus #, destination with reason, signed by parent and must be submitted immediately following morning announcements. In such cases, a Bus Boarding Pass will be given to the student, allowing the variation to occur.
School Supplies and Textbooks:
A school supply list is available for all grades. Check this supply list carefully. Some courses may require special materials. Students will be issued textbooks. The condition of the book is recorded when it is handed out. Any student who abuses or loses a book will be assessed an appropriate fee for that book.
Student Dress Code:
Students are expected to maintain a reasonable appearance and to wear clothing which is appropriate for school. The following parts of the body must be completely covered by non-see-through clothing: abdomen, buttocks, chest, back, (e.g.) when arms are hanging down, the top must touch the bottoms. Any form of head wear, hats, bandanas, toques, etc. are not allowed. Messages on clothing must be appropriate. Students not wearing appropriate clothing will be expected to change clothing at school or go home to change.
Student Council:
Grades 5 – Grade 9 Student Council organizes activities for students. Everyone is encouraged to become involved and to support the events.
Telephone:
A pay phone is available for students to use during breaks. Cell phones are not allowed during class times. Students must have a note from their teacher to use the office phone and is for school related business. Students are asked to use the pay phone to make arrangements to go to friends’ homes etc. The office phone is reserved for emergencies and school purposes only.
Volunteers:
Volunteers are welcome in many areas of our school including classrooms, the library, special events, field trips, and the office. Badges are available in the office and must be worn at all times. All volunteers must have a current criminal records, and confidentiality and child abuse registry check.
CONSEQUENCES FOR INFRACTION OF POLICY
Smoking:
Smoking is not allowed on school property or during any school-sponsored activity. A school-division policy specifies consequences for smoking violations, which could include parental contact, suspensions and expulsion.
Drug Policy:
There are four (4) categories:
1. Suspected use of Drugs/Alcohol
a. Possible Actions:
i. Referral to Administration/Counselor
ii. Parental contact
iii. Review policy with parent
iv. Complete Behaviour Observation Form
v. AFM referral and assessment
vi. RCMP contact
vii. Medical Referral
2. Under the influence of Drugs/Alcohol/Possession/Purchasing
a. First Offence:
i. RCMP contact – first step
ii. Parental contact – second step
iii. Immediate removal from school
iv. Suspension – 5 days
v. Mandatory referral to AFM
vi. Must make arrangements for drug/alcohol assessment before re-entry.
b. Second Offence:
i. Immediate 5 day suspension and further suspension of up to 6 weeks at the discretion of the superintendent.
ii. Possible loss of participation in school related activities.
c. Third Offence:
i. Immediate 5 day suspension and referral to the Board for expulsion from school.
3. Possession of Drugs/Alcohol/Paraphernalia
a. First, Second & Third Offences
i. Same as above
4. Trafficking/Distribution of Drugs/Alcohol
i. Possibility of an indefinite suspension with recommendations for expulsion from school.
ii. RCMP involvement
iii. Parent contact
East Selkirk Middle School
Box 310, East Selkirk, Manitoba R0E 0M0
Phone: 785-2036 Fax: 785-2465
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