Mission

The Eagle Grove Community School District, in partnership with the community, will promote in all students the knowledge and skills necessary to become independent thinkers, lifelong learners, and responsible, productive citizens.

Eagle Grove Community School Belief Statements

•  We place education as our highest priority, recognizing that everyone can learn.

•  Our school is a positive, caring, nurturing environment where everyone is respected.

•  Students possess and display the skills necessary for effective communication.

•  Students develop critical thinking and research skills to solve problems responsibly.

•  Students display global awareness and respect for their environment.

•  School, family and community collaborate to meet the needs of all students and maintain the highest possible level of  educational programs and facilities.

At Robert Blue Middle School we believe in doing what’s Best for Kids!

We will:

1. Develop respectful, responsible, good citizens through caring and trusting relationships.
2. Nurture and support the whole child.
3. Provide a 21st century education through teaming and a collaborative environment.
4. Make decisions based upon the latest data and research.
5. Instruct using relevant, rigorous, integrative, and exploratory curriculum.

Student Planners

The Student Planner is provided to your child for a number of reasons.  Communication Tool: Our students are asked to write their assignments for their five core subjects:  Reading, Math, Language Arts, Math, and Science every day. Please ask to see this and, if you have any questions about an assignment, feel free to write a note in the “Parent/Teacher Comments” section and have your child share with his/her teacher.   Organizational Tool:  As our children move through the school system, they will be asked to be more accountable and to work more independently. This Planner can be instrumental in helping our students develop the organizational and time management skills necessary to be successful throughout school and beyond. 

*Contact teachers as soon as you see problems.  The best time is between 7:30 - 8:15 a.m. or, if you are not available at this time, leave a message for the teacher with Ms. Asche or Mrs. Mersch, 448-4767, and they will see that the teacher gets the message.

Characteristics of Our Middle School Program

Students going through middle school will see many differences from elementary school.  These differences are intentional because we believe in a philosophy of educating kids that is based on the unique needs and characteristics of early adolescents, or children ages 10 to 14.  Students will still have a set of core classes--reading, language arts, math, science and social studies; students will have music, art, and physical education, but they will see many new things as well . . .  a comprehensive teacher advisory program (Eagle Time), a full exploratory program, and interdisciplinary teaching, which means that an idea or theme is developed and used in all or many of your classes over a period of time. Middle school students should expect to work very hard throughout the day and have 30 - 60 minutes of homework daily.

Robert Blue Middle School staff believes in the following:

All students have a right to be happy and to be treated with compassion in this school:

This means that no one will laugh at you or hurt your feelings without being held accountable for their actions.

All students have a right to be themselves in this school: 

This means no one will treat you unfairly because YOU are black or white, fat or thin, tall or short, boy or girl.

All students have a right to be safe in this school:

            This means that no one will create an atmosphere where a student’s health is in  jeopardy.

All students have a right to hear and be heard in this school:

            This means all students have a right to listen and speak without interruption.

All students have a right to learn about themselves in this school:

This means all students are free to express their feelings and opinions without fear of being punished.

Curriculum Standards and Benchmarks

The Eagle Grove School District has established standards of achievement for students by grade and in each curriculum area. Teachers will use their own assessments as well as standardized tests to determine students’ level of proficiency.

Assessments

Student learning will be measured using a variety of assessments.  Most of these assessments will be created and administered by your classroom teachers. In addition, student learning is measured through.  The Iowa Tests of Basic Skills in February, and the NWEA MAP (Measure of Academic Progress) in the fall and spring.  

Communication Plan

Computerized progress reports are generated at mid-term and end of the four quarters to communicate to parents the students’ individual scores on all assignments during that particular grading period.  Student-involved conferences are held in the fall and again in the spring. During conferences, students will share with parents a portfolio of their work that outlines the educational progress they have made.  Together with teacher(s), they will develop an education plan designed to help them be more successful in school.  Parents, teachers or the principal may request a conference for students at other times if they feel the circumstances warrant.  Since students have many different teachers at one time, parents who are concerned about their children’s performance are encouraged to first call the advisers who will, in turn, help parents develop a plan whereby the students, parents and school staff can work more closely together.

Policies and Procedures

 Attendance Policy

 Philosophy

Students will be expected to attend classes regularly and to be on time in order to receive maximum benefit from the instructional program, to develop habits of punctuality, self-discipline and responsibility, and to assist in keeping disruption of the educational environment to a minimum. While it is possible for an absent student to make up much of the school work missed, it is impossible to completely compensate for absences from class.

Absences always cause some disruption in the educational progress of the student who is absent. In order to maintain interest and understanding in a program of instruction, students should not expect to be absent any more than is absolutely necessary. Students who fail to make up missed work may not understand what the teacher is currently presenting, and may also become discouraged with the double burden of keeping current and making up missed work. Irregular attendance or tardiness by students not only retards their own studies but also interferes with the progress of those pupils who are regular and prompt in attendance.

Iowa’s Compulsory Attendance Law (H.F. 455, Iowa Code chapter 299) requires that all students between the ages of 6 and 16 attend school for a set number of days as required by the board of their local school district.  The Board of Directors and the Administration of EGCSD have established a school calendar requiring 180 days of attendance by all students. This attendance requirement applies to all students under the age of 16 who are still enrolled as students at Eagle Grove Schools. There are times, however, when school officials may determine that the problems associated with absence from school are outweighed by the advantage of an activity in which the student participates and they endorse or sponsor such an activity or trip. Attendance at such approved trips and activities will not be considered an absence from school.

The following rules have been formulated to implement the Iowa Compulsory Education Law and the attendance policies established by the Eagle Grove Board of Education:

Excused absences from school include the following: personal illness; death or serious illness in the immediate family or household; medical or dental appointments that cannot be made other than during school time; obtaining a driver’s permit providing the student does not miss a regular class period; recognized religious holidays; other reasons that can be justified from an educational standpoint. The administration recognizes that parents must, at times, schedule appointments and other engagements for their children during school hours. The administration will do its best to work with parents in these situations, as long as the request is made in advance of the absence, unless it is an emergency situation as determined by the principal.

Before an excused absence is granted for personal illness, the principal may require a physician’s statement verifying the illness and the necessity for the absence from school. Also, the principal may require a note from a doctor, dentist, or other medical personnel verifying that a student did keep a scheduled appointment. The school expects the students and his/her parents to make every effort to return to school as soon as possible after a scheduled medical appointment and not use the remainder of the school day for shopping, etc.

                  Robert Blue Middle School believes that it is important for students to attend classes to get the full benefit of their education. Students that miss an excessive amount of school, even for excused reasons, are missing out on important learning opportunities in the classroom. If a student misses more than 20 days, either excused or unexcused, in a semester, they must make a written request to continue their present schedule. This is to be sent to the Superintendent of Schools, explaining the reason for the excessive absences. The Superintendent of Schools will determine whether the factors that the student has presented warrants the opportunity for the student to continue iwith their present schedule or if an alternative schedule or placement needs to be put in place. It may be necessary for the student to make up missed time. Students and parents have the opportunity to go in front of the school board if they would like to appeal this decision. 

Unexcused absences/truancies from school are absences for reasons other than those outlined above. Please note: Having a parental excuse does not necessarily make the absence excusable under school policy. Some examples of absences that will generally be treated as unexcused are as follows: shopping trips, vacations not approved ahead of time, work for parents or employers, hair cuts, obtaining a driver’s permit during regular class periods, oversleeping, transportation problems.

Reasons for absences from school that can be justified from an educational standpoint may be approved by the principal. Permission for such absences must be obtained in advance of the absence. Failure to obtain prior permission may result in the student being considered unexcused/truant.

As a truant, the student may be reported to law enforcement officers and the parents may be prosecuted for violation of the state truancy and compulsory education laws.

Late arrivals and tardiness to school may be excused upon the same reasonable grounds as those considered for absences. Excuses, however, such as not having a ride to school, not waking up on time, etc. will not be considered as plausible reasons for a late arrival. Students who are late to school must bring a note from their parents explaining the reason for the late arrival or the school must receive a phone call from the parents with an explanation for the late arrival. Students who are late to school without a reasonable excuse will receive an unexcused tardy or absence.

Students who are late to class will not be admitted to class without a written and/or verbal excuse from the office or the school employee responsible for the lateness. Students who fail to obtain this excuse will receive an unexcused tardy.

Students who are tardy to school will not be admitted to school without the written permission of the principal or principal’s designee.

Penalties for unexcused absences/truancies and tardies are as follows:

a)            A student who is late to class will receive an unexcused tardy.

b)            Five unexcused tardies to class will equal one unexcused absence.

c)            Five absences will result in Level I parental notification of absences by school.

Grade reductions resulting from absences may result. Significant lack of attendance in a course might reasonably be expected to negatively affect academic performance that would, in turn, negatively affect a student’s grade in that course. Therefore, grade reductions may result from absences in the following situations:

a)            Failure to attend makeup sessions as assigned for the completion of late assignments or makeup work. This includes required attendance after school, before school, or at other times assigned by the teacher.

b)            If a teacher gives points or percentages for attendance and/or participation, the denial of those points or percentages for absenteeism is a reasonable practice.

c)            Failure to complete makeup assignments within a reasonable time.

Parental notification of significant student absences will be done by school personnel.

Level I:              When a student accumulates five days of absences in a school year, the school will send a written notice to the parents (includes both excused and unexcused absences).

Level II:  When a student accumulates ten days of absence in a school year, the school will send written notice to the parents and the guidance counselor may contact you to discuss the student’s attendance. Parents may also choose to contact the guidance counselor if there are concerns regarding the absences. The contact may be in person or over the phone.

Level III:  When a student accumulates 15 days of absence in a school year, the school will send parents written notice of a required attendance hearing with the principal and juvenile liaison officer.

Level IV:  If the Level III agreement is not fulfilled, or if parents refuse to attend a Level III hearing, the school will refer the case to the County Attorney for further action.

The principal reserves the right to make exceptions to the Parental Notification process based on the mitigating circumstances in each case. This may include placing the student on an Attendance Contract and/or referring the case to the County Attorney earlier than Level IV.

School notification of a student’s absence is the responsibility of the parents. Parents are to call the school office before 9:30 a.m. on the day of the absence and inform the school that the student will be absent and the reason for the absence. Failure to receive such information by 9:30 a.m. may cause the student to be considered unexcused/truant.

All students who are absent from school for any reason shall submit in written form the specific reasons for their absence, the specific days or times they were absent and the signature of the parents.

In the event the principal determines that it is advisable to verify an excuse given for an absence, he/she may take appropriate steps to do so. When it is determined that a written excuse is forged or misrepresents the facts, the principal may treat those instances of absence as unexcused/truant.

Perfect Attendance

A student who achieves perfect attendance will have no unexcused late arrivals, early dismissals or absences of any kind on their attendance record.

Makeup Work

School work missed due to absence must be completed to the satisfaction of each teacher whose class or classes was missed. When students can anticipate absences, they should bring to the office a signed note from their parent stating the reasons for the upcoming absence. The principal may determine that completion of school work prior to an absence be a prerequisite to allowing the absence to be excused.

When an absence was not anticipated, all schoolwork must be made up within the number of school days that are double those of the absence. Again, it is expected that the student will bring to the office a note from a parent or guardian explaining the absence. Absences of more than five days must be made up as arranged with each teacher. It is the student’s responsibility to contact each teacher about makeup work. Students who do not make up their work in the allotted time will receive no credit for the work. Students will receive full credit for work made up due to absence, provided the work is completed within the allowable time.

Grades and Absences

Reduction of grades shall not be used as a disciplinary measure against a student because of an excused absence from school, providing the student makes up the work on the date and time required by the teacher.

Leaving School

No matter how legitimate the reason, students are not to leave school during regular school hours without first obtaining permission from the principal or principal designee. Leaving school without permission may result in an unexcused absence/truancy.

If a student is ill, the school must notify and get permission from a parent or other responsible adult before allowing the student to go home.

Students returning to school from an appointment must first check into the office and obtain an admit before returning to class.

Student Accountability- Promotion and Retention and Acceleration

With our ability to now provide a learning experience via the E2020 program, we have the ability to hold students in the middle school accountable for their educational progress. In the past, students that were not successful in the classroom would be allowed to move on with their classmates to the next grade. There was no accountability for them to show that they had mastered the work necessary for advancement. To advance to the following grade, students must:

Students that have passed both semesters of their core classes will be advanced on to the next grade. If a student fails a core class for a semester, he or she will be required to complete one of the following, determined by the principal, before advancing with their class in that particular subject:

1. Students can attend summer school and complete the coursework necessary to show they have mastered the material in the classroom that is necessary for advancement.
2. Students will be assigned an E2020 course that will be completed before they are advanced.
3. Students can pass a test that is designed to access whether they have mastered the material in the classroom that is needed for advancement.

If a student does not complete this before the beginning of the next school year, they will be required to finish this work during Eagle Time, Study Halls or before and after school. 

 Any 8^th grader who fails a core class will be scheduled a period at the high school the following year to complete their 8^th grade work. This would be completed in our Alternative/Credit Recovery Room. This class will take the place of an elective class. 

Students will be promoted to the next grade unless, in the judgment of the licensed staff and the building principal, the student has not met the Standards and Benchmarks for that grade level or lacks the maturity, emotional stability, and social adjustment needed to advance.  Parents will be informed as this decision is being made. Students with exceptional talents may, with the permission of the principal and the parents, be accelerated beyond their current grade level.

Behavior Policy  

Students are expected to conduct themselves well at all times.  Expectations for all areas of the school center around Being Respectful, Being Responsible and a Being a Good Citizen.  Respect for authority vested in school employees, regard for public property, and consideration for the rights and welfare of others should govern student behavior. Students are subject to the policies and procedures governing student behavior and conduct in the following areas: the school itself (grounds, athletic facilities, etc.), while attending school-sponsored activities at home or away, while being transported in a school vehicle under school supervision, any place or location where school conduct codes might apply.  While this list is not intended to be all-inclusive, the principal shall have the authority to discipline any student guilty of the following actions: insubordination towards any school personnel or person such as a parent, school volunteer, etc., use of profanity and/or vulgar language or expressions (orally or in writing), intentional damage or vandalism of school property (damages will be paid by the student), possession, use of any weapon (including threats to use a weapon), assault and battery, possession of pornographic or obscene materials, cheating or plagiarism on tests or  other school work, disrupting the educational process, use/possession of tobacco, alcohol, or any controlled substance or their look-alikes, violating the rules and regulations of the school. 

Disciplinary measures that may be taken by the principal include, but may not be limited to, the following: misconducts (7:30 - 8 a.m.), probation, loss of privileges, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, expulsion (with board approval), payment of damages, loss of eligibility of co-curricular activities, loss of privilege to attend or participate in school-sponsored activities, denial of special privileges, involvement of legal authorities, or other action as deemed necessary.  Students will be given one day to arrange for transportation, and attempts will be made to contact parents whenever a misconduct is given.

Robert Blue Middle School Expectation Matrix

Book Rent/Fines

Students may be issued school-owned books, equipment or other instructional materials for use during the school year.  It is the students’ responsibility to return these items at the end of the year and to return them in good condition.  Fines will be assessed to cover lost or damaged items.

Cell Phones

Students should not have their cell phones out or be using them at any time during the school day from 8:10-3:15, unless permission is granted by a teacher.  Parents are asked to contact the office if they need to leave a message for their child

Students who are caught with their cellular phones out between 8:10 a.m. when the entry bell rings and school dismissal will have them removed and taken to the office.  This policy is in effect at school and at any school sponsored activities where teachers, advisors, or coaches have asked for no cellular phones.

I.              On the first offense students can pick up their phone at the end of the day in the office.  The issue will be documented on our discipline system as a minor offense. 

II.            On the second offense students will call home and report that they had their cellular phone taken away and the phone will be returned to the student when a member of the office or teaching staff has spoken to the parent regarding the fact that this is the second             offense.  The issue will be documented on our discipline system as a minor offense.

III.            On the third offense the phone will be held in the office until such time that a parent can             come to school during school hours and retrieve the phone.  The student will also serve a 30-minute detention.  The issue will be documented on our discipline system as a minor             offense, 

Dress Code

Students are expected to be clean, neat and respectfully dressed for school.  Dress or appearance that creates controversy, disturbs the general school atmosphere, or puts down others is not acceptable. Caps and hats are to be removed upon entering the building and may not be worn again until the student has left the building.   Hoods on jackets or sweatshirts need to remain down.  No clothing that advocates cigarettes, alcohol or other drugs or contains profanity may be worn.  Clothing that leaves the midriff section bare, is strapless, backless, revealing, or exposes undergarments will not be allowed.  Spaghetti straps, short shorts, and sagging pants are also prohibited. 

Field Trips

Educational field trips are taken from time to time.  Written parental permission for their children to participate in school-sponsored field trips will be obtained. Certain field trips have as a prerequisite that students meet behavioral and/or academic standards.  Those who do not meet this criteria are expected to be in school that day.  If they choose not to attend school that day, the student will make up this day at the discretion of the principal.  Students will be asked to help with fundraising efforts to help pay for field trip expenses.

Fire, Disaster, and Safety Drills

The school is committed to providing a safe environment for students. Fire, weather disaster, and other safety drills recommended and approved by the local Department of Civil Defense, State Department of Public Safety, and State Department of Education are held at regular intervals throughout the school year.

Good Conduct Policy

It is a privilege and an honor to be able to participate in activities and represent the Robert Blue Middle School. The student-athlete and the school are judged by the participant’s character and conduct. Students involved in any activity serve as a model to many people and their attitude has an important impact on others. Any student/athlete whose habit and conduct are not consistent with the rules and regulations established by this code shall be declared ineligible.  The code shall apply to those students involved in any school-sponsored activity during both the school year and summer months, both on and off school property. The time involved begins with the first practice in the first extracurricular activity in which the student participates as a seventh grader and extends through the end of their participation in activities as Robert Blue Middle School students.  At the completion of their eighth grade year, students come under the jurisdiction of the high school good conduct policy.  Students can be declared ineligible in one of three categories:  academic performance, behavior, and/or attendance.

Academic Performance--Grades in all classes, including exploratory classes will be reviewed at mid-term and end of the quarter.  Any student failing one or more core class at this time will be declared ineligible for not less than one week.  If, at the end of that period, the student is no longer failing any classes, he/she will be declared eligible. Weekly checks will be made until the end of the grading period.  Students in violation of the homework policy may be denied participation in extracurricular practices or competition.

Attendance--A student must be in school periods five, six, seven and eight to be eligible for participation at that afternoon/evening’s event.  Extenuating circumstances will be handled by the principal.

Behavior--Behavior records will be reviewed daily.  Any student, upon receiving an in or out-of-school suspension or his/her third misconduct that quarter, will be placed on probation. This probationary period begins with a meeting between the student and the principal.  A contract unique to that student’s needs will be drawn up.  Should conditions of that contract be violated before the end of the quarter, the student will be declared ineligible for not less than one week of competition.  At the end of the quarter, the student’s behavior record will begin anew.  A student on suspension will be denied the opportunity to practice or compete in any event the day of the suspension.

In addition, any student who’s observed by a staff member, law enforcement official, parent, student, community member, etc. or who admits to a violation of Good Conduct regulations or is found by a preponderance of evidence at a judicial proceeding, or through an administrative investigation or proceeding to have done one or more of the following:

a)            Possessed alcoholic beverages with knowledge, intent to possess, and control thereof;

b)            Consumed alcoholic beverages;

c)            Attended functions (without their parent’s supervision) where alcohol or controlled substances, as defined by the Iowa Code, are present and being used and does not immediately leave such functions -- whether or not the student uses the substance(s);

d)            Possessed controlled substances as they are defined by the Iowa Code, without a legal             prescription, and with knowledge, intent to possess, and control thereof;

e)            Used controlled substances, as they are defined by the Iowa Code, and without a legal             prescription;

f)            Used or possessed tobacco, in any form;

g)            Committed theft, vandalism, or other serious offenses, including those that would violate             the Iowa Code, as to make the student unworthy to represent the ideals and standards of his/her school is in violation of the Good Conduct Code.

A student who has been found to have violated the Good Conduct Code shall be penalized as follows:

First offense -            Two weeks or two events of ineligibility, beginning the date of the Principal’s decision, whichever is greater. Should the student and parent/guardian come forth with an admission of use/possession of alcohol, tobacco or other drugs prior to his/her being confronted by the principal other than those instances where law enforcement is involved, the first offense penalty may be waived. If a subsequent offense occurs, however, the violation will be considered to be the second violation.

Second offense            - Six weeks or six events from the date of the Principal’s decision, whichever is greater.

Third/subsequent offenses - One calendar year of ineligibility, beginning the date of the Principal’s decision.

If the violation occurs at the end of a sport/activity season, the ineligibility shall carry over into the next sport/activity season in which the student participates. If the violation occurs during the off-season, the penalty will be applied in the next sport/activity in which the student participates.

Activities considered for ineligibility purposes include the following: football, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, track, drama, student government, honor choir, honor band, quiz bowl, or any other activity in which students participate and classroom grades are not affected.

During the period of ineligibility, the student will continue to practice and/or attend regularly-scheduled meetings in order to be reinstated at the end of the eligibility period.  Any type of awards that would normally go to a student for participation in an activity may be withheld by a school administrator, activity director or coach.

All students participating in extracurricular activities and their parents/guardians are required to sign off before participation.  Their signatures do not necessarily indicate that they agree with the Good Conduct Policy but that they have knowledge of it and agree to support it.

Appeals Process--The student may appeal this decision to an Activities Council, made up of the activities director, coach and one other teacher. This Council may either amend or uphold the Principal’s ruling. Their ruling shall be in writing and will summarize the evidence upon which the Council reached its decision. The decision of the Activities Council may be appealed to the Board of Education by written notice to the Superintendent of Schools within five days of the receipt of the Activity Council’s decision. The Board may either affirm or uphold the decision of the Activities Council. The Board’s finding shall be summarized in writing and delivered within five school days of the hearing. The decision of the Board shall be final.

Gum, Candy, and Beverages

Beverages other than plain bottled water are not allowed at Robert Blue Middle School unless students are given special permission by their instructor.  Candy and gum chewing is at the discretion of the individual teacher.

Harassment

Harassment of students by other students will not be tolerated on the school premises. This policy is in effect while students are on school grounds, school district property or property within the jurisdiction of the school district, while on school-owned and/or school-operated buses, vehicles or chartered buses, while attending or engaged in school activities, and while away from school grounds if the misconduct directly affects the good order, efficient management and welfare of the school district. Harassment is defined as verbal or physical conduct imposed on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or other protected status that affects academic-related decisions, or creates a hostile or offensive learning environment. Harassment by board members, administrators, employees, students, parents, vendors, and others doing business with the school is prohibited. Students whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to the investigation procedure which may result in discipline, up to and including, suspension and expulsion.  The district will promptly and reasonably investigate allegations of harassment. The counselor will be responsible for handling all complaints by students alleging harassment. Repeat offenders will be referred to the principal for discipline. Retaliation against a student because the student has filed a harassment complaint or assisted or participated in a harassment investigation or proceeding is also prohibited. A student who is found to have retaliated against another in violation of this policy will be subject to discipline up to and including suspension and expulsion. The superintendent, in conjunction with the principals, may develop administrative regulations regarding this policy.  (Student Personnel, Series 500, Policy title: Student-to-Student Harassment, Code No. 502.10)

Harassment, bullying and abuse are violations of school district policies, rules and regulations and, in some cases, may also be a violation of criminal or other laws.  The school district has the authority to report students violating this rule to law enforcement officials.

Students who feel they have been harassed or bullied should:

•  Communicate to the harasser or bully that the student expects the behavior to stop, if the student is comfortable doing 

   so.  If the student needs assistance communicating with the harasser or bully, the student should ask a teacher, counselor

   or principal to help.

•  If the harassment of bullying does not stop, or the student does not feel comfortable confronting the harasser or bully,

   the student should:

            *    tell a teacher, counselor or principal; and

*    write down exactly what happened, keep a copy and give another copy to the teacher,              counselor or principal 

      including:

                        --  what, when and where it happened;

                        --  who was involved;

                        --  exactly what was said or what the harasser or bully did;

                        --  witnesses to the harassment or bullying;

                        --  what the student said or did, either at the time or later;

                        --  how the student felt; and

                        --  how the harasser or bully responded. 

Sexual harassment may include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.  Harassment or bullying on the basis or age, color, creed, national origin, race, religion, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical attributes, physical or mental ability or disability, ancestry, political party preference, political belief, socioeconomic status or familial status includes conduct of a verbal or physical nature is designed to embarrass, distress, agitate, disturb or trouble persons when:

            •            places the student in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s person or property;

            •            has a substantially detrimental effect on the student’s physical or mental health;

            •            has the effect of substantially interfering with the student’s academic performance; or           

            •              has the effect of substantially interfering with the student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the 

services, activities, or privileges provided by a school. 

Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to:

            •            verbal, physical or written harassment or abuse;

            •             pressure for sexual activity;

            •              repeated remarks to a person with sexual or demeaning implications; and

            •              suggesting or demanding sexual involvement, accompanied by implied or explicit threats.

Harassment or bullying based upon factors other than sex includes, but is not limited to:

            •            verbal, physical, or written harassment or abuse;

            •            repeated remarks of a demeaning nature;

            •            implied or explicit threats concerning one’s grades, job, etc; and

            •            demeaning jokes, stories or activities.

Homework 

The staff believes homework serves a valid purpose in learning, promoting growth in responsibility and preparing students for future educational experiences.  Middle school students should plan on an average of one hour of homework in their core classes per night.  Students are expected to complete all homework assigned by teachers and to hand this homework in on time. Teachers across the building will keep track of students’ homework completion rate and may require those with missing or incomplete homework to come in at 7:30 a.m. the next day to work with that teacher to complete this work. The policy is designed to ensure that students fall no more than one day behind in their school work.  Once a student is determined to be in violation of our homework policy, “catch-up” time may be mandated and take precedent over extracurricular practices.

Parents and students are encouraged to check homework assignments on the school website regularly.  Go to the teacher's faculty page for each subject, to review what has been assigned.  Individual student grades may be viewed daily through the JMC parent access section.  Please call the school office to set up your JMC account.

Internet/Network

We are pleased to offer students of the Eagle Grove Community School District access to the District electronic communication network. To gain access to these services, all students must obtain parental permission during registration. The permission form will be completed once at each of the student’s educational levels: elementary, middle and high school. Access to the network will enable students to explore thousands of libraries, databases, and electronic bulletin boards throughout the world. Families should be warned that some materials accessible via the network may contain items that are illegal, defamatory, inaccurate, or offensive to some people. While our intent is to make network access available to further educational goals and objectives, students may find ways to access other materials as well. We believe that the individual benefits derived from accessing the network, in the form of information resources and the opportunities for collaboration exceed any disadvantages. While access to the network will be supervised, parents of minors are responsible for setting and conveying the standards their children should follow when using media and information sources. To that end, the Eagle Grove School District supports and respects each family’s right to decide whether or not to apply for access.

Students will be held responsible for their conduct (actions and words) while using the school computer network just as they are at any other time in school. Communications on the network are often public in nature and our expectations for student behavior will be the same as that for any event in which students appear before the general public

The network is provided for individuals to conduct research and communicate with others. Access will be granted to those students who agree to act in a considerate and responsible manner and who have submitted a signed parental permission form. Please remember, however, that network access is a privilege, not a right; the District reserves the right to deny or cancel network privileges to any individual using the network in an inappropriate and/or irresponsible manner.

Individual users of the District computer network are responsible for their behavior and communications over the network. Users will comply with District standards and will honor the agreements they have signed. The District is not responsible for the individual misuse of District electronic media.

Network storage areas may be treated like school lockers. Network administrators may review files and communications to maintain system integrity and to ensure that users are using the system responsibly. Users should not expect that files stored on the District servers will always be private.

The following are not permitted and are considered violations of this policy:

a)            Sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures;

b)            Using obscene language;

c)            Harassing, insulting, or attacking others;

d)            Damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks;

e)            Violating copyright laws;

f)            Using another’s password;

g)            Trespassing in another’s folder, work, or files;

h)            Intentionally wasting resources;

i)            Employing the network for commercial purposes;

j)            Participating in any other activities deemed inappropriate.

First violation:  Restriction from independent computer use for nine weeks.

Second violation:  Restriction from the computer labs and network use for the equivalent of one semester (cumulative grades 2-4, 5-8, and 9-12).

Third violation:               Restriction from the computer labs and network use for the equivalent of one calendar year.

Restricted students may use the computer under the direct supervision of a classroom instructor for required class projects. Regaining independent use after a suspension will only occur after a meeting with the student, parents, media personnel and administration.

Additional violations will be handled on a case-by-case basis. If an offense is severe enough, steps may be skipped. These documents are referenced in the Eagle Grove School Board Policies.

Human Growth and Development Policy

Middle school students will have opportunities to learn the positive benefits of maintaining total wellness, making quality decisions, and resisting negative peer pressure.  Current, research-based curriculum which provides an overview of STD’s, HIV and AIDS will be taught by a certified instructor. Parents who wish their children excused from a particular topic(s) may submit a written request to the Principal in advance of the date indicated for instruction.  The student will then be excused and given a mutually agreed upon assignment. The student’s grade will not be affected in any way.  Students and parents are welcome to review the curriculum in advance but must contact the Principal or health teacher in advance so that materials can be made ready for them.

Illness and Injury

If a student becomes ill or is injured at school, the student’s parents will be notified as soon as possible. Emergency or minor first aid will be administered. In any event, ill or injured students will be turned over to the care of their parents or qualified medical personnel as quickly as possible.  Every year parents will be asked to update any emergency medical information on JMC, providing necessary information to be used in the case of an illness or injury.  Injuries shall be reported and within 24 hours an Accident Report will be filed in the Principal’s office.

Lockers

Student lockers are held in joint occupancy by the student and the school with both parties possessing equal rights to access. The locker is for storage of school supplies, textbooks, outerwear, and school clothing.   Students are to use only the locker that is assigned to them.  Students may not post signs other than teacher designed name tags on the outside of their lockers.  Students are NOT TO KEEP VALUABLES OR MONEY IN THEIR STUDENT LOCKERS. If these items must be brought to school, they should be secured in the principal’s office.  The school is not responsible for these items if they are kept in the locker. If a padlock is put on the locker, the student must turn in a duplicate key and/or the combination to the lock to the principal’s office. Failure to do so may result in the lock being cut off. The upkeep of the assigned locker will be the responsibility of the student. The student may be fined for damage to his/her locker.

Students will be assigned a locker and a padlock in the locker room as well.  It is highly recommended that students keep their belongings secured in the locker room at all times.

Lunch Money Policy

The lunch system is a PRE-PAID SYSTEM, all meals are to be paid in advance.  Lunch money is to be brought to the office before school and will be deposited in a family lunch account.   It is the required that a reasonable amount be deposited in order to keep a positive balance.  If lunch balances become low, a note will be sent home with the student.  Alternative meal may be required for students with low balances until the account is taken care of.

Media Center

We encourage students to borrow books from the media center for their reading enjoyment. Each student is allowed to have two (2) books checked out at a time. Students are responsible for books checked out in their account and should take care to protect the books from spills, tears, and loss. Students will be required to reimburse the school for lost or severely damaged books. The average replacement cost is $15.  If a student wishes to print or make copies for personal school projects or other personal purposes, they may be charged ten cents per page.

Medication

The school assumes no responsibility for medical treatment of students. If a student must take medication during school hours (i.e. prescription or non-prescription), written authorization and instructions must be provided by the parents/guardians of the student. The school will not be responsible for monitoring the usage of medication by a student during school hours when the student carries and self-administers his/her own medicine. Medication will be administered by authorized school personnel under the following conditions and procedures:  1) Medication dispensed by school personnel will be administered under the written directions of the physician and parent/guardian. Note: Written parent/guardian permission and directions for administering all medications are required. 2) The medication must be properly labeled with the student’s name, the name of the medication, the amount of dosage to be administered, and the administration time.  3) Prescription medication must be in properly marked prescription containers. Note: Ask the pharmacist for extra, properly marked prescription containers. 4) Non-prescription medications are to be in their original container so that school personnel know the name of the medication, the prescribed dosage, and the administration time.

Multicultural, Nonsexist Equity Education Opportunity,

Title VI, Title IX, Section 504 Coordinator Information and Nondiscriminatory Policy

Policy Title Multicultural and Nonsexist, Code 602.1

Enrolled children in the school district community shall have an equal opportunity for a quality public education without discrimination regardless of their race, creed, sex, marital status, national origin, ability or disability.  The educational program shall be free of such discrimination and provide equal opportunity for the participants.  The educational program shall foster knowledge of respect and appreciation for the historical and contemporary contributions of diverse cultural groups as well as men and women to society.  It shall also reflect the wide variety of roles open to both men and women and provide equal opportunity to both sexes.  Inquiries regarding compliance with equal education opportunity shall be directed in writing to the MCNS and EEO/AA Coordinator, Eagle Grove Community Schools, 1015 NW 2^nd St., Eagle Grove, Iowa 50533, phone 415-448-4767; to the Director of the Iowa Civil Rights Commission; or to the Director of Region VII, Office of the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Kansas City, Missouri.

Non-Discrimination Policy and Notification Concerns

The Eagle Grove Community School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, national origin, age, marital status, or disability in the educational programs, activities, or employment policies. Title IX of the educational amendments of 1972 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 requires school districts to have a grievance procedure for employees, students, and parents. The District has an Equity and Affirmative Action Coordinator, Equity Coordinator for Programs, and Multicultural and Nonsexist Education Coordinator. Inquiries regarding compliance with the law may be directed to this coordinator at 1015 NW 2^nd St., Eagle Grove, Iowa 50533, phone 515-448-4767, to the Director of Civil Rights Commission, Des Moines, Iowa; to the Director of Region VII, Office of Civil Rights, Department of Education, Kansas City, Missouri

Phone Calls to Students

If a student receives a phone call during instructional time, a message will be taken and delivered to them.  Parents are asked to communicate with their child through the school office, not call them on their cell phones or send text messages. 

Physical Education Excuses All students are required to actively participate in all physical education classes.  Under normal circumstances, a student cannot be excused from physical education class unless he/she presents to the teacher a note that is signed by a physician or the school nurse

School Closings 

In the event of late starts, early dismissals, or no school due to inclement weather, school officials will contact the following stations:  WOI-TV 5, KCCI-TV 8, WHO-TV 13, KQWC, KJYL, and KWMT/KKEZ.

Search and Seizure

School authorities may, without a search warrant, search a student, student lockers, desks, work areas, or student vehicles to maintain order and discipline in the schools, promote the educational environment, and protect the safety and welfare of students and school personnel. School authorities may seize any illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials discovered in the search. These materials may include, but not be limited to, nonprescription controlled substances, such as marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, barbiturates, apparatus used for the administration of controlled substances, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, weapons, explosives, poisons, and stolen property. Such items are not to be possessed by a student anywhere on school premises or at a school-sponsored activity. Periodic inspections of lockers is permissible to check for cleanliness and vandalism.  All non-maintenance searches will be based on reasonable suspicion and be reasonable in scope.

Smoking, Drinking and Drugs

Use or possession of tobacco and the use or possession or being under the influence of alcohol, other controlled substances, or “look-alike” substances that appear to be tobacco, alcohol or controlled substances by individuals under the age of 18 and all students regardless of age on school property or at any activities sponsored by the school is strictly forbidden.  Violation of this rule will result in disciplinary action which may, ultimately, include expulsion.  Such violation will also mean a violation of the school’s Good Conduct Policy and may be reported to local law enforcement authorities.

Student Records

The following information may be released to the public in regard to any individual student of the school district as necessity or desirability arises:  name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, ethnicity, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, previous school or institution attended by the student, and honor rolls.    Any student or parent/guardian not wanting this information released to the public must make objection in writing to the Principal.  This objection must be renewed at the beginning of each school year.

Transportation on School Buses

Students who ride a school bus are subject to rules and regulations while being transported to and from school, on field trips, or to extracurricular activities.  Any behavior or acts that distract the driver are a serious safety hazard to other riders and to the safe operation of the vehicle. Possible violations include, but are not limited to, the following: fighting, using profanity, spitting, vandalizing, smoking, using matches or lighters, moving about while the bus is in motion, refusing to obey driver, bothering others, throwing objects, or extending any part of your body out of the bus.  Disciplinary action for violations may include verbal warnings, phone calls to parents, conference with principal/superintendent, suspension of bus riding privileges either temporarily or for the remainder of the school year

Visitors

Parents/guardians or others are welcome to visit school. We do ask, however, that they call the office in advance so that their visit can be communicated to the teachers and the students. Students from other schools are not allowed visits except during the lunch time.  All visits need to be pre-approved by the Principal.  For the safety of our staff and students, all visitors will be asked to sign in at the office and wear a visitor badge.

Waiver of Student Fees

Students whose families meet the income guidelines for free and reduced price lunch, the Family Investment Program (FIP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), transportation assistance under open enrollment, or who are in foster care are eligible to have their student fees waived or partially waived.  Students whose families are experiencing a temporary financial difficulty may be eligible for a temporary waiver of student fees.  Parents or students who believe they may qualify for temporary financial hardship should contact the school at registration time for a waiver form.  This waiver does not carry over from year to year and must be completed annually.

Celebrating Student Achievement

American Citizenship Award

Our school participates in the American Citizenship Award program sponsored by the National Association of Elementary School Principals and the National Association of Secondary School Principals.  This award is intended to inspire enthusiastic school spirit, strengthen student self-esteem, promote appreciation of the rights and responsibilities of citizenship and build responsible and knowledgeable citizens.  Two students in each grade receive this award at the

End-of-the-Year Awards Assembly

Aaron Eilerts Memorial CHARACTER COUNTS! Award

To honor the compassionate memory of Aaron Eilerts, an 8^th grade student at RBMS, who lost his life in a tornado at Camp Little Sioux on June 11, 2008, the Aaron Eilerts Memorial CHARACTER COUNTS! Award may be given to one or more 8^th grade students annually.  The award will be given to students who most closely demonstrates the six pillars of character as identified by a vote of the entire 8^th grade class and the faculty.  Final determination of award winners will be made by the Staff Building Leadership Team.  Award recipients will then be nominated for a state CHARACTER COUNTS! award through the CHARACTER COUNTS! in Iowa Organization. 

Awards Assembly

Students will be recognized for their academic, civic and extracurricular accomplishments at the conclusion of each quarter.   Perfect attendance, Academic Honor Roll, and Positive Behavior will be honored.  Trophies are awarded to the Eagle Time in each grade that has the best attendance, best GPA, and fewest Office Discipline Referrals.

Honor Roll

Students who, at the end of each quarter, have a grade point of 3.00 on a 4.00 scale and who do not earn anything less than a “C” in any course will be placed on the Honor Roll. Academic Excellence recognition will be given to those who achieve a 3.5 or higher grade point.  The RBMS Grading Scale is uniform in all grades and subject areas and is as follows:      

                        A             96-100                                    A-             94
                        B+            92-93                                     B             88-91                                                B-             86-87
                        C+            84-85                                     C             80-83                                                C-             78-79
                        D+            76-77                                     D             72-75                                                D-             70-71
                        F              69 and below

President’s Education Awards

Robert Blue participates in this program that recognizes and honors eighth graders who have demonstrated outstanding educational achievement.  The program consists of two awards. The President’s Award for Educational Excellence is given to students who have earned a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale during the first seven semesters of middle school, have a cumulative score in the 85th percentile on the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills in reading and/or math over the four years of middle school, and have demonstrated high motivation, initiative, integrity, intellectual depth, leadership qualities, and/or exceptional judgment.  The President’s Award for Educational Achievement is given to students who show outstanding educational growth, improvement, commitment or intellectual development in their academic subjects, and meet either the GPA or the standardized test requirement for the President’s Award for Educational Excellence.

Special Programs

Character Counts

The Eagle Grove Community Schools believe certain enduring moral principles distinguish right from wrong and define the essence of good character. The school’s goal is to permanently instill character development into the curriculum and our community. Trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship are character traits the school teaches and the community embraces.  Students in the 7^th and 8^th grade have the opportunity to serve as Character in Action (CIA) Agents.  These students will teach weekly lessons to their peers about the importance of showing good character and participate in a variety of special projects.

Cocurricular and Extracurricular

Robert Blue offers the following cocurricular and extracurricular programs for seventh and eighth graders: football, volleyball, basketball, cross country, wrestling, track, and jazz band, drama, student government, and Destination Imagination.

Special Education

The philosophy of our special education program is that students with disabilities will be integrated as much as possible into regular classes with modifications and support being provided by a team of special education and regular education staff members.

Student Assistance

Students who are identified as having problems in school with academic achievement or being disinterested in school life may be referred for  Student Assistance. These students are given extra attention and support to help them become more successful.  Student and parental input will be sought in developing an intervention plan. Robert Blue has a full-time guidance counselor who offers large group guidance in grades five, six, and seven, health to students in grade 8, and individual and small group guidance to students in all grades.  Families with specific needs may seek from the guidance counselor referrals to outside agencies.  The school district also employs a full-time school nurse who spends a portion of each day at the middle school.  All health-related concerns should be communicated to the nurse. A juvenile court liaison assists students who have a contract with the county probation officer and helps to monitor school attendance and behavior.

Student Government

Students are asked from time to time to help with various projects around the middle school.  These may include, organizing a school dance or other social event, planning for Homecoming, and special holidays.  Students will be asked to participate in several fundraising opportunities as part of Student Government.  Money earned will be used to fund field trips, service learning projects, assemblies, purchase equipment and supplies for student enjoyment, and pay for PBS rewards and incentives.

Summer School

Students who, by the end of the school year, have not met the curriculum standards and benchmarks for their grade will be given an opportunity through Summer School to continue to work on these skills. Some students may be required to successfully complete Summer School before being promoted to the next grade.  Students may be required to complete their coursework through the computer program E2020. 

Talented and Gifted Program

A Talented and Gifted program is provided for students who are not being sufficiently challenged and for whom there is a need to expand their learning into the content and processes that are not typically provided in the regular classroom.  Students for the program are selected based on achievement data.

EAGLE GROVE COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Student Achievement Goals

ALL STUDENTS WILL DEMONSTRATE READING COMPETENCY

(Descriptions/Possible Indicators) Locates, understands, interprets, and applies written information.

ALL STUDENTS WILL EXPRESS THEMSELVES USING FUNCTIONAL WRITING SKILLS.

(Descriptions/Possible Indicators) Communicates thoughts, ideas, information, and messages

in correct format using appropriate grammar.

ALL STUDENTS WILL DEVELOP ACCURATE LISTENING SKILLS.

(Descriptions/Possible Indicators) Comprehends and responds to verbal messages.

ALL STUDENTS WILL SPEAK FLUENTLY AND DEMONSTRATE A COMMAND OF THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE.

(Descriptions/Possible Indicators) Uses verbal language appropriate to the audience and the occasion.

ALL STUDENTS WILL DEMONSTRATE FUNCTIONAL MATHEMATICAL PROCESSES.

(Descriptions/Possible Indicators) Can reason and solve mathematical concepts in real-life problems. Performs the basic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division).

ALL STUDENTS WILL DEMONSTRATE KNOWLEDGE OF TECHNOLOGY AND THE ABILITY TO ACCESS ELECTRONIC MEDIA.

(Descriptions/Possible Indicators) Understands the overall intent and the proper procedures

for utilizing technology.

ALL STUDENTS WILL DEMONSTRATE PROBLEM-SOLVING SKILLS.

(Descriptions/Possible Indicators) Recognizes a problem, identifies and evaluates possible solutions, and devises and implements a plan of action to resolve it.

ALL STUDENTS WILL DEMONSTRATE GOOD CITIZENSHIP AND PERSONAL MANAGEMENT SKILLS.

(Descriptions/Possible Indicators) Sets well-defined and realistic personal goals and priorities,

and monitors progress towards goal attainment. Has a strong sense of community responsibility.

Displays appropriate conduct toward others and is responsible for own actions.

ALL STUDENTS WILL DEMONSTRATE SKILLS NECESSARY TO BE PRODUCTIVE TEAM MEMBERS.

(Descriptions/Possible Indicators) Participates and contributes to a group effort.

 Exercises leadership skills. Works toward agreements involving exchange of ideas and uses effective conflict resolution techniques.

ALL STUDENTS WILL DEMONSTRATE KNOWLEDGE AND APPRECIATION OF THE ARTS & SCIENCES.

(Descriptions/Possible Indicators) Knows laws, customs, and cultural heritage of American society. Understands fundamental concepts of life and physical sciences.

Skills will be measured at the student’s developmentally-appropriate level.  3/11/98

Scott Jeske, Principal

1015 Northwest Second Street                                                            Telephone 515-448-4767

Eagle Grove, IA 50533                                                                        FAX 515-448-5527