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Smith Middle School
Parent/Student Handbook
2012-2013
5835 Donaldson
Troy, Michigan 48085
248.823.4700
http://smith.troy.k12.mi.us/
updated 8/27/12
Dear Parents,
Welcome to Smith Middle School. The staff at Smith believes that your child is a special person
who deserves the best possible education. Everyone who comes in contact with your child is a
part of the learning process. The staff at Smith provides your child with a diversity of learning
experiences. Learning is fun and enjoyed by both the student and teacher.
It is important that you understand what your child experiences at Smith. We extend to you an
invitation to be involved in our school and your child's education.
The information included in this parent/student handbook was developed to familiarize you with
the procedures and programs of both the Troy School District and Smith Middle School.
A weekly update of events will be distributed by email from the principal and
posted to our website (http://smith.troy.k12.mi.us. If you have not signed up for the Troy School
District’s Alert system, School Messenger, please go to the district website and click on the
School Messenger logo (www.troy.k12.mi.us).
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to visit our school, go to our website
http://smith.troy.k12.mi.us/ or call the school office at 823-4700.
I look forward to working with you and your child.
Sincerely,
Tim Fulcher
Principal
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Smith Middle School
Smith Mission Statement: The purpose of Smith Middle School is to ensure learning for all
members of our school community.
Smith Vision Statement: Smith Middle School will become a professional learning community
that initiates innovation and is committed to continuous improvement focusing on educating the
“whole child”. Smith will be a place where a collaborative community of teachers and
administrators work to develop and implement research-based curriculum, instructional
strategies, and data-driven assessments to ensure all students learn.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Principal ................................................................................... Mr. Timothy Fulcher
Assistant Principal .................................................................... Ms. Amy Buchanan
Counselors............................................................... Mrs. Jennifer Hartenburg (A-F)
Mrs. Christine Summerell (G-Z)
Secretaries .................................................................................. Mrs. Jennifer Vente
Mrs. Karyn Mroczka
Superintendent ........................................................................... Dr. Barbara Fowler
Assistant Superintendent of Secondary Instruction .............. Dr. Richard Machesky
IMPORTANT CONTACT INFORMATION
Smith Office .............................................................. 823-4700
Attendance Line (Voicemail - 24 hours) ................... 823-4701
Counselors ................................................................. 823-4700
Troy School District Administrative Office .............. 823-4000
Transportation ............................................................ 823-4054
Smith Fax Line .......................................................... 823-4713
Smith Website .................................http://smith.troy.k12.mi.us
While at Smith, if you have a problem, question or concern, contact the following (in order):
Attendance & Homework Requests: Academic, Developmental or Social:
Secretary to the Assistant Principal The Classroom Teacher
Ms. Amy Buchanan, Assistant Principal Your Child's Counselor
Grades or Instruction: Athletics or Intramurals:
The Classroom Teacher The Coach
Your Child's Counselor Mr. Tim Fulcher, Principal
Mr. Tim Fulcher, Principal
Behavior or Discipline: Transportation:
The Classroom Teacher Mr. Tim Fulcher, Principal
Ms. Amy Buchanan, Assistant Principal
Mr. Tim Fulcher, Principal
Mr. Dominick Asaro, Transportation Supervisor, 823-4054
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TIME SCHEDULE
1st hour 8:20 am – 9:15 am 2nd hour 9:20 am – 10:20 am 3rd hour 10:25 am – 11:20 am
4th hour
11:25 am – 12:55 pm A Lunch B Lunch C Lunch
11:20 – 11:50 (lunch) 11:25 – 11:55 (class) 11:25 – 12:25 (class) 11:55 – 12:55 (class) 11:55 – 12:22 (lunch) 12:25 – 12:55 (lunch)
12:25 – 12:55 (class) 5th hour 1:00 pm – 1:55 pm 6th hour 2:00 pm – 2:57 pm
HALF DAY SCHEDULE
10/18/12 11/14/12 1/25/13 3/14/13 3/28/13 6/13/13 6/14/13
1st hour 8:20 am – 8:47 am 27 minutes 2nd hour 8:52 am – 9:25 am 33 minutes (announcements) 3rd hour 9:30 am – 9:57 am 27 minutes 4th hour 10:02 am – 10:29 am 27 minutes 5th hour 10:34 am – 11:01 am 27 minutes 6th hour 11:06 am – 11:33 am 27 minutes
(school is dismissed at 11:33 a.m. on 9/4/12 only)
Students may not enter the building prior to 7:15 a.m. Students entering the building prior to
7:45 a.m. must report to the cafeteria. Breakfast food (cereal, juices, bagels, donuts, etc.) may be
purchased beginning at 7:30 a.m.).
Regular bus routes will be followed on half days. There will be no breakfast service on half days.
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SMITH MIDDLE SCHOOL
Teaching Staff
Sue Baran Language Arts 6, Reading 6
Geoff Benes Chamber Orchestra, Orchestra 6
Jennifer Braun Special Education
Kristine Casko Global Studies 7, U.S. History 8
Kim Cline Global Studies 6
Ashley Conrad French 1
Anne Drogosch Language Arts 6, Reading 6
Gareth Eve Math 6, Math 6/7 Honors
Lauryn Eve Reading Strategies, Writing Strategies
Bonnie Gibson Advanced English 8, English 8
Natalie Jagels Language Arts 6, Reading 6, Computer/Keyboarding
Tracie Kania Science 6, Applied Engineering
Colleen Khoury Global Studies 6, English 7, Computer/Keyboarding, Desktop Publishing
Nancy Klein Science 8
Patrick Koneval Video Tech, Video Tech 2, iClass
Duane Losey Science 6, Study Skills
Garrett Lovas Physical Education 6
Alan MacNair Advanced Orchestra
Mary MacNair Science 8
Cherie Maher Math 7/8 Honors, Algebra 1
Michele Marszalkowski Choir, Theater Arts, Vocal Music 6, Computer/Key., Desktop Publishing
Terri McCormick Science 7
Mike Morris Physical Education 6, 7 ,8
Vivek Nayak Science 7, Computer/Keyboarding, iClass
Christine Opie Global Studies 7
Ewa Ostrowski Transitional Language Arts, TLA Study Skills, English 7
Susan Pickering Media Specialist
Tara Putrus English 7, Computer/Keyboarding
Brad Pyke Math 7, Math 7 Support
Melissa Rehbine Math 6, Math Lab 6
Glenn Rexer U.S. History 8
Cheryl Rosenblatt Life Skills
Kristie Romaya Geometry Honors, Algebra 1, Algebra Prep
Georgia Sebastian Spanish I, Global Studies 7
Carolyn Taggart Geometry Honors, Algebra Honors, Math 7
Candice Tamakloe Special Education
Ray Torres Advanced Band, Cadet Band, Band 6
Jennifer Trice English 8
Alicia Wahls Advanced English 7, English 7, Health 7
JoAnn Williams Special Education
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Special Services Staff
Andrea Alter Speech Pathologist
Karey Hansen Psychologist
Heather Kavanaugh Social Worker
Lorainne Palmer Speech Pathologist
Colleen Tropea Teacher Consultant
Additional Staff
Cafeteria Sue Bissonette (Manager), Karen Hilty, Gerald Kulling, Christine Searight,
Wendy Wong
Computer Aide John Eagan
Custodial Kelly Stutte (Head Custodian), David Jones, Anne McBee, Cathy McClure
ESL Tutors Krishna Patel, Dalia Toma
Noon Aides Ketki Amin, Prudence Lantzy, Nancy Ulewicz
Math Tutor Claire Castine
SMITH PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION
As a parent at Smith, you are automatically a member of the Smith Parent Teacher Organization
(SPTO). There are no membership dues or fees, and meetings are held monthly. The SPTO has
officers who are elected annually. The goal of the SPTO is to support school activities through
participation. Volunteers are coordinated by the SPTO to help in the clinic, Stop and Shop,
media center, dances and at various functions throughout the year.
2012-2013 SPTO Officers
President…………………………… Marlo Moeller
Vice-President………………………Judy Parker
Secretary…………………………… Eileen Wlzosek
Treasurer…………………………… Anita Wilson
STOP AND SHOP
The Smith Parent Teacher Organization maintains a student bookstore, the Stop and Shop,
throughout the year. The Stop and Shop is open daily during lunch hours and has various
supplies for student purchase. These items are sold at list cost and there is no profit to the school
or SPTO.
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ATTENDANCE
Good attendance is essential to school success. There are, however, occasions when your child
may be absent from school. If your child is going to be absent, we request that you call to report
the absence by 9:00 a.m. We operate a 24-hour absence line each school day and during the
weekend. The number is 823-4701. Parents may also report an absence or excuse a student in
writing. Notes should be brought to the office prior to 7:55 a.m. Students whose parents have
not had contact with the office regarding the absence will receive an unexcused absence. The
absence will remain unexcused until verified by a parent. The ability to make up work may be
impacted by the status of the absence. Should you know in advance that a child will be absent
for any length of time, please notify the office prior to the absence. Students will carry a
prearranged absence slip to their classes. This allows teachers to make arrangements with
students for work that will be missed prior to the absence.
Tardy Policy
Students have five (5) minutes passing time to travel from classroom to classroom. Students
must be in the room and in their seats when class begins. If a teacher detains a student after
class, that teacher should issue a pass excusing the student’s tardiness to the next class.
The following procedures will be followed:
1. A student will be considered tardy if he/she is not in his/her seat when the bell rings
indicating the beginning of class.
2. When a student receives his/her 4th
tardy during a ten-week period, a letter will be
generated by the Assistant Principal notifying the student’s parents that additional tardies
will result in disciplinary action.
3. When a student receives his/her 5th
tardy, a conference will be held with the student and a
letter will be sent home with the student to be signed by their parent/guardian.
4. When a student receives his/her 6th
tardy, the parents will be contacted and the student
will serve a detention.
5. When a student receives his/her 7th
tardy the discipline procedure outlined in the Student
Rights and Responsibilities Code of Conduct will be followed. Excessive tardiness will
be considered insubordination and may result in a suspension
Make-Up Work
A student with an excused absence has the privilege of completing the work missed and
receiving credit for it. Class discussions and activities cannot be duplicated, but teachers will do
all they can to help students with the work they missed while absent. Make up work after an
excused absence is to be done promptly. Students will receive two days for each day absent to
make up work. Assignments given prior to a student absence will be due upon a student's
return. This includes the taking of tests and quizzes. It is the responsibility of the student to
obtain all necessary make-up work. At the end of the marking period, an extension of make-up
time may be granted by the principal if sufficient reason is shown. Students must be absent
two consecutive days to have homework requests honored.
Students Arriving Late Or Leaving Early
No student should leave the building without a parent's consent and the school's knowledge. A
note or call to the office is acceptable. All students must be signed out in the office by a parent
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or designee noted on the emergency card before they leave. Students arriving late should report
directly to the office and sign in. Parents are encouraged to accompany their child into the
school to sign them in.
Examples of excused absences and tardiness are:
1. Student Illness
2. Doctor/Dental Appointments
3. Death in the Family
4. Prearranged Family Trips
Any other absence or tardy is unexcused.
ASSIGNMENT LOGS
Smith Middle School provides a homework assignment log for each student. This booklet
allows students to record homework and class assignments on a daily basis. The booklet has
enough daily sheets to last an entire school year. Parents are encouraged to review the booklet
on a daily basis in order to be aware of school assignments. Students are required to use the
booklet each day in class.
Your cooperation in checking the logs will further reinforce its consistent use. Each student will
receive one copy per year. Replacement planners may be purchased at the Stop & Shop.
BEHAVIOR Student Code Of Conduct A copy of the Students Rights and Responsibilities Handbook is available to all students and
their parents. It contains guidelines for behavior, dress, school code violations, disciplinary
measures and appeal procedures. The expectations for the students of the Troy School District
are clearly stated. Please read and become familiar with the rights and responsibilities as
outlined in the handbook.
Detention Administrators and teachers may assign detentions. Parents will be notified at least one day
prior to the day of an after or before school detention so any special arrangements can be made.
It is the student’s responsibility to make arrangements to stay for detention. Teachers may ask
that a student serve the detention with them on any day. Detentions may be assigned before
school, after school or during lunch.
Positive Behavior Support (PBS) PBS helps us provide a consistent and fair behavior plan for all students. Research and empirical
evidence shows that students achieve at a higher level when they know the expectations and feel
safe. PBS will help Smith MS improve both of these. Our plan provides detailed expectations in
every area of the school while putting an extreme emphasis on safety. Smith MS focuses on the
three main areas of safety, respect, and responsibility; Smith incorporates these tenets into all
aspects of expectations throughout the school.
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COMMUNICATION BETWEEN SCHOOL AND HOME
There are a variety of ways that Smith employs to insure that information reaches families.
Email (School Messenger)
Weekly emails will be sent from the principal via the school email system, School Messenger.
Users can register their own email addresses. School Messenger information can be found on the
Troy School District website (www.troy.k12.mi.us).
Edline
Edline is a web-based system that allows our parents and students the ability to view classroom
grades, assignments, notes, calendars, and much more. The Edline link is www.edline.net. The
Troy School District no longer mails report cards or progress reports to student homes, but
instead posts the information on each family’s secure Edline account. New parents receive a
letter in September informing them of the procedure to use to open their EDLINE account. If you
have any questions or need assistance activating your account, please contact Mr. Patrick
Koneval at [email protected].
Website & TV
School information is also posted on our website at http.//smith.troy.k12.mi.us. Other
information sources are Cable TV Channel 19 (Comcast) or 15 (WOW).
COMMUNICATION RELEASE FORMS INFORMATION
Multimedia technology is woven throughout the Troy School District K-12 curriculum as an
instructional tool, providing students with the ability to communicate and to showcase their work
on a global scale. New technology in our buildings provides many opportunities for students to
share their work.
Parents have the right to exclude their child’s name, picture or his/her work shared via cable
television, the Internet or other media. Parents who DO NOT want the use of photographs,
videos of their child or art work or writing he/she has created MUST fill out a Communication
Release Form and give this form to Mr. Tim Fulcher. This form is kept on file in the Smith
office.
On occasion, special fees may be requested of parents for tickets, transportation, food, etc.
Every effort is made to keep such fees at a minimum, and no student will be excluded from a trip
due to inability to pay.
COMMUNITY USE OF SCHOOL BUILDINGS
Our school community is welcome to use available space for the purpose of meetings,
recreational activities, community group activities and other related events. Rental and/or
custodial fees may apply. A building permit application must be completed online
(http://www.troy.k12.mi.us) to request the use of the building.
COURSE OFFERINGS
There are two types of classes in the Troy middle schools, required and elective. Each grade
level has a group of courses that are required of all students. The balance of the time is offered
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as exploratory experiences. We hope that each student will take advantage of as many
exploratory subjects as possible during the three years at Smith.
Student Scheduling
Each spring, students are required to complete course selection sheets for the following year.
These selections are then placed into the computer for hours and teacher selection. If a conflict
prevents scheduling, an alternate class previously selected by the student requests will be
substituted. Any special requests must be made in writing to a counselor or administrator prior
to June 1. Once the school year begins, counselors should be consulted regarding any requests
for a schedule change; schedule changes may or may not be honored. Course Curriculum Guides
will be available prior to the selection of courses for the next school year.
DIRECTORY INFORMATION
The Michigan Freedom of Information Act requires state and local agencies, including school
districts, to make certain information available to the public.
The public information, called directory information, includes: student's name, address,
telephone listing, picture, major field of study, date and place of birth, participation in officially
recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of
attendance, degrees and awards received, most recent previous school attended and other similar
information.
If parents (or students 18 years or older) object to publication of any of the above information,
they must notify the assistant superintendent. Written notification must be made to the school
district.
DRESS CODE POLICY We ask for students and parents to select apparel that fits within the Dress Code Policy. It is the
responsibility of parents and students to see that school dress is appropriate and not disruptive
to the educational process at Smith. Students who wear inappropriate clothing will be asked to
change or call their parents to bring them appropriate clothing. Continued problems will result in
discipline as outlined in the Troy School District’s Rights and Responsibilities Code of Student
Conduct Handbook.
1. It is only permissible to wear tights, leggings, or yoga pants underneath an appropriate
dress, skirt, or long shirt. Smith MS will utilize the “finger-tip” standard as the policy
regarding dress/skirt/shorts/ shirt length appropriateness when wearing these items.
2. No halter-tops, bare midriffs, tank tops or spaghetti strap tops may be worn by either
boys or girls. See through or open mesh tops are unacceptable when worn alone.
Acceptable tops must have straps that are approximately three fingers wide.
3. No clothing with inappropriate messages may be worn. This includes but is not limited to
sexual reference, profanity, alcohol or drugs.
4. No hats or head coverings may be worn in school unless religiously mandated.
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5. Coats, jackets, backpacks and other outside dress must be left in lockers.
6. Clothing should be of proper fit and not revealing. Baggy pants, which display
underwear, are unacceptable.
7. For safety reasons, shoes must be worn at all times.
EDUCATIONAL RECORDS
Most information contained in students' school records is not considered directory information
and, therefore, remains confidential. Parents (or the student if he or she is 18 years or older)
have the right to inspect or review education records. To do so, a written request must be made
to the building principal at the elementary level or to the guidance department at the secondary
level. Upon receipt of the request, an appointment will be set to review the records.
ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION DEVICES
While we understand that communication with your child is important, please understand that the
indiscriminate use of cell phones during school can be extremely disruptive. The Troy School
District policy is that NO student shall use or display cellular phones or any other device used for
communication on school property during normal school hours unless authorized by a teacher or
administrator. Parents, if you must contact your child during the school day, please call the main
office at 248.823.4700, and we will deliver the message to your child. If a student must make a
phone call during the day, he/she may come to the office and ask permission to use the clinic
phone. The office phone is to be used for emergencies only.
EMERGENCY INFORMATION
The emergency information card helps school personnel greatly in making decisions regarding
your child in case of an emergency. Attempts will be made first to locate the parents before
other emergency contacts will be called. It is vital that families complete these cards accurately
and inform the school of any changes that may occur during the school year. No student
will be released to any person not listed on the emergency card without written permission. If the
card is not signed, medical treatment cannot be administered. Please be sure to list any person on
your emergency card that we may call in an emergency or may pick up your child from school.
Copies of the emergency card are also placed with the Smith Crisis Response Kit for use in a
building crisis.
FIELD TRIPS
During the course of the school year, there will be times in which certain skills are best taught
outside the classroom setting. These trips must have a viable educational objective prior to their
approval. Specific precautions are taken to insure that the students are adequately supervised.
Often parents and volunteers assist in this supervision.
Before a student may participate in these educational experiences outside the classroom, written
parent permission is required. Should a student not have written parent permission to go on a
trip, he/she will remain in a supervised setting at school.
HONOR ROLL
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To be eligible for the honor roll, a student must have a "B" or better academic average for that
card marking with no failing grades. Honor roll lists are made available to students and parents
at the end of each marking period. All "A" students are given special designation on the honor
rolls.
INTERNET
Internet use in the Troy School District is considered a student right that allows the student the
opportunity to use this excellent resource to research global studies and worldwide news. With
this right comes the responsibility for the student to use these resources responsibly and
appropriately. Misuse of computers and technologies is outlined on pages 23-25 of the Troy
School District Rights and Responsibilities handbook. All students must have a Student Internet
Registration Contract signed by both student and parent on file in the school office before using
the Internet at school.
LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER
Students are encouraged to use the library/media center to support the academic curriculum as
well as for personal reading enjoyment. The media center collaborates with classroom lessons,
activities and research projects, sponsors programs, and loans a variety of materials. Students
share our pride in helping to keep it an up-to-date, vital and attractive place of learning.
The media center is open before, during and immediately after school for students to check out
materials on even days. During the day whole classes as well as individuals with passes are
admitted to the center. Students may use the facility during lunch period with a pass from the
teacher librarian. Student ID cards are required to check out materials. Fiction, biography, audio
books, and non-fiction books check out for a period of 3 weeks. Magazines and graphic novels
check out for a period of 1 week. Reference books check out overnight only. Fines are issued at
10 cents per day for overdue materials.
The media center enjoys its role of providing media materials, services and experiences that are
appropriate and meaningful to the educational growth and development of students and staff.
LOCKERS
Students are assigned individual hall lockers. Students should not share their locker combination
with other students or share lockers. Locker inspections are made periodically. If a student has
trouble with the operation of the lock or locker, the student should contact the office. All
personal items, such as pictures, must be hung with magnets. Stickers or tape are not allowed.
Any damaged locks or lockers must be reported immediately to the office. If not reported, it will
be assumed that the occupants are responsible for the damage and they will be fined.
LOST & FOUND
Lost and found articles are to be brought to the main office. To prevent loss of possessions,
students are encouraged to mark their names clearly on every item. Students should write their
name in the space provided in each textbook when it is assigned to them. The school is not
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responsible for valuables brought to school. All lost clothing articles not claimed at the end of
each marking period will be donated to charity.
LUNCH
Lunch Time Policies
Gymnasium
Students may not wear street shoes when participating in activities.
No playing tag or keep away.
Take proper care of equipment.
When not playing, please stay off courts and stay in bleacher area.
Everyone has a right to play.
If you are hurt, notify the person in charge immediately.
Violators of the above rules may be penalized by losing your gym privileges.
Media Center
Students must obtain a pass before school or during passing time prior to 4th
hour from Mrs.
Pickering to reserve a spot to use the library during lunch hour.
The pass must be shown to a principal or counselor before the student will be allowed to
leave the cafeteria.
Upon entering the library, the students must sign-up and state his or her purpose to use the
library.
While in the library, each student may use the facilities for academic purposes only.
Students must remain in the library for the entire lunch hour.
Courtyard
Students must remain in the grassy areas, benches or brick pavers.
Food or drink must remain in the cafeteria.
Leave wildlife alone. (i.e. grasshoppers, birds, fish, worms)
Point Of Sale Lunch Program
The basic student lunch price is $2.50. This system allows parents and student to pay for meals
on their account, thereby eliminating the need for students to carry cash to school each day.
Funds may be added to accounts at the lunch line by cash or check, individuals may directly pay
Troy School District Food Service office by check or credit card, or accounts can be updated
through PaySchools. Students may still purchase lunches with cash. Students access the system
using their student ID card. When an ID card is scanned, cafeteria staff are able to view the
student's name, picture, account balance or any other information added such as food allergies or
meal restrictions.
OPEN ENROLLMENT POLICY Troy Public Schools have an "open enrollment" policy which allows, under certain conditions,
attendance by a child at any school in the district. Due to enrollment size, some buildings may
be closed to open enrollment.
Parents interested in transferring their child to another Troy School District building are required
to complete a transfer application form. Application forms are available in all school buildings
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and at the Board of Education office. All requests will be handled on a first-come, first-serve
basis and will be reviewed, depending on the grade level of the student, by either the Assistant
Superintendent of Elementary or Secondary Education.
Once granted, transfers will remain in effect for at least one school year. Once the transfer is
approved, parents may be responsible for transportation for their child to and from the new
school site, depending on the building and location of their residence. Students granted open
enrollment at one level (i.e., middle school) must reapply for that status at the next level (high
school). Students are urged to arrive on time and leave school at the end of the school
day unless in a sport or a club.
OPEN HOUSE
An open house is held annually in September. Grading policies, curriculum, homework and
classroom procedures are presented by teachers during this open house. This is an outstanding
opportunity for you to learn about your child's day at school. Please note, open house is not a
time for individual conferences with teachers. Open house at the middle school level is for
parents only. Although we realize that circumstances dictate that students accompany parents, it
is hoped that parents attend without their children.
PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES
Parent-teacher conferences will be held three times this year on October 18—afternoon and
evening, November 14—afternoon only, and March 14—afternoon and evening. Students are
dismissed early on the days of conferences. Information about conferences will be
communicated by email prior to the conference dates. Teachers will be in the gymnasium and
conferences are on a first-come basis. We request that parents spend no more than five minutes
with each teacher. Traditionally, about 80% of the parents/guardians attend parent-teacher
conferences at Smith Middle School. Individual conferences can be scheduled anytime. Teacher
conference periods are published on the Smith website. These are the best times to contact your
child's teacher.
PARTIES
Parties are not part of the instructional program and are usually reserved for after school clubs
and activities.
PROGRESS REPORTS
Progress reports are posted to Edline four times each school year at the midpoint of each marking
period. These reports are designed to give parents and students some indication of student
progress in the classroom. Progress reports give parents and students time to talk with teachers
and develop plans to correct any problems that may exist prior to report card markings. Students
may or may not receive grades or comments from every teacher.
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REPORT CARDS
Report cards are posted to Edline four times during the school year. Students receive
achievement grades, remarks and citizenship codes that reflect behavior and effort.
Achievement (ACH) Behavior Effort
A - Excellent 1 - Excellent 1 - Excellent
B - Above Average 2 - Good 2 - Good
C - Average 3 - Satisfactory 3 - Satisfactory
D - Below Average 4 - Poor-Needs 4 - Poor-Needs
E - Failure Improvement Improvement
G - Credit-No Grade 5 - Unacceptable 5 - Unacceptable
H - No Credit/No Grade
S - Satisfactory Progress
U - Unsatisfactory Progress
SALES BY NON-SCHOOL GROUPS
With the wide variety of non-school groups in Troy, fund raising and the selling of candy and
other items in school can be a problem. Therefore, the sale of anything by non-Smith sponsored
groups will not be allowed. Any items being sold in school will be confiscated and the parents
will be notified.
SCHOOL CLOSINGS
If the decision is made to close the schools, that information will be communicated via School
Messenger, on our district website, www.clickondetroit.com/closings, and television/radio
stations prior to 7:00 a.m. Please DO NOT CALL the Central Office, radio stations, Smith
Middle School or school officials' homes. If for any reason it is necessary to close school during
the day while students are in attendance, the same procedure will be followed.
SMITH HARRASSMENT POLICY
Harassment is against the law and against school policy. Harassment because of sex, race, color,
national origin, religion, height, weight, handicap or disability of students by other students or
adults is unacceptable and is unlawful. Harassment includes (but is not limited to) unwelcome
comments or gestures (written or verbal) or other behavior which creates an intimidating, hostile
or offensive environment. Students are encouraged to report any incidents to the adult of their
choice or to seek help reporting the incident. A student can anonymously report an incident by
writing it down and placing the document in one of three Bully Boxes. The Bully Boxes are
located in the counseling office, in the hallway near room 9 and in the hallway near room 18.
Hazing: Senate Bill 783 makes the act of “hazing”, where it results in injury or death, subject to
serious criminal sanctions. Public Act 111 applies to attendees, employees and volunteers of
Michigan public and private schools. Hazing is defined as the “intentional, knowing, or reckless
act by a person acting alone or acting with others that is directed against an individual and that
the person knew or should have known endangers the physical health or safety of the individual,
and that is done for the purpose of pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, participating in,
holding office in, or maintaining membership in any organization.” If the hazing results in
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physical injury, the crime is a misdemeanor. If the violation results in serious impairment of a
body function, the crime is a felony.
STUDENT ACTIVITIES
Athletics
Everyone at Smith is proud of our outstanding athletic teams. Sports programs are offered to
students in the seventh and eighth grades. The sports offered for boys are football, basketball
and track; the sports offered for girls are basketball, volleyball, cheerleading, and the spirit
squad. Students wishing to participate must have a physical and a signed Troy School District
permission form before that student may try out for that activity. A current physical is one
received after April 15 of the previous school year. Physical forms are available from the coach
or in the main office.
Attending events after school as an observer
School spirit is important to having a good school. Smith Middle School staff and students take
pride in everything our school accomplishes. During sporting events and shows, all spectators
are expected to show courtesy to other spectators and all involved in the event. Our goal is to
create a positive atmosphere where everyone departs the event with a positive impression of
Smith Middle School. There is no charge to attend athletic events at Smith. No drinks of any
kind are allowed in the gym during athletic events. Once at an event, students may not leave the
school and return.
Eligibility policy
Philosophy
It is the philosophy of Smith Middle School that all students will achieve high academic
standards. While we consider participation in extra-curricular activities and athletics an
important part of our school, participation in these activities is considered a privilege. Therefore,
it is the student’s responsibility to follow the academic eligibility policy stated below in order to
participate in all school activities and/or functions. These activities include, but are not limited
to, the following:
Athletics Student Council
Connectors Positive Peer
Intramurals All Clubs
Policy
Eligibility will be determined every five weeks through progress reports or report cards. At the
first five week interval the progress report will be reviewed and a list of students will be
generated for ineligible status. Once on the ineligible list the student will be monitored weekly.
Each Friday an electronic worksheet will be sent to all teachers via email. If a student is on the
ineligible list, the teacher will need to provide the student’s approximate grade and
behavior/citizenship (1-5).
A student is deemed ineligible if:
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the student is on the low grade report (any D’s or E’s).
the student receives eight points or more in behavior/citizenship* (4’s & 5’s only,
excludes 1’s, 2’s, or 3’s).
* A request will be made to teachers at progress report time to provide names of any student who
has earned a 4 or 5 in behavior/citizenship.
Once the student is deemed ineligible:
1. Teachers, coaches and advisors will be given notice of those students who are
ineligible by the assistant principal. Initially, notice will be given at the five week
mark and then each week thereafter.
2. Parents of ineligible student(s) will be notified by the assistant principal.
3. Athletes will continue to practice with the team but will not participate in any games
until the next week’s eligibility check. Ineligible athletes are required to attend home
and away games.
4. Club members will not participate in two functions (The club advisor will determine
the functions where participation will take place) until the next week’s eligibility
check.
5. All students on the ineligibility list are required to meet with their teacher (s) where
they have a D or an E and develop a plan of action.
6. All students on the ineligibility list will be encouraged to attend homework help or
mentoring.
Returning to Eligible Status
During the weekly Friday progress check, the student’s teacher will review the electronic
document and determine if the student is eligible. This is NOT a cumulative grade but a review
of that week’s progress ONLY. For example, if a student has an E at the weekly check but the
following week has shown progress, at the teacher’s discretion, they then can become eligible
again. Some examples of “progress” may be turning in all required homework, participating in
class, improved behavior, improved test scores, attending after school sessions, etc.
Five Week Eligibility Schedule
Progress Report/Record Card Dates Sport
1st Marking Period Progress Report
October 8, 2012
Girls Basketball, Football, Cheerleading, Flag
Football, Cross Country
September - November
1st Marking Period Report Card
November 6, 2012
Boys Basketball, Cheerleading, Competitive Cheer
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2nd
Marking Period Progress Report
December 10, 2012
November 7 – January24
Wrestling, Volleyball, Intramural Volleyball
Beginning of January - March 2
nd Marking Period Report Card
January 28, 2013
3rd
Marking Period Progress Report
March 13, 2013
3rd
Marking Period Report Card
April 16, 2013 Track, Intramural Track, Intramural Tennis, Golf
Club
April 9 – June (City Meet)
4th
Marking Period Progress Report
May 20, 2013
4th
Marking Period Report Card
June 14, 2013
Intramural Sports
Intramural sports will be organized for sixth grade students, primarily, and students in the
seventh and eighth grades who are not participating in the current inter-scholastic sport activities.
These activities may include: flag football, basketball, volleyball, wrestling, tennis, track and
cross-country. Athletic physicals are not required for intramural participation.
Clubs
Club activities will be announced to the students during the school year. These activities are for
all students. A list of club activities will be made available at the beginning of the school year as
well as posted on the Smith website. A club can be started any time there is sufficient student
interest and an adult sponsor.
Pay to Participate
The Troy School District has a Pay to Participate program for secondary athletics and clubs. The
program is part of the District’s continued efforts to make adjustments that address the
Michigan’s school aid deficits. The athletic fees are $75 per sport for seventh and eighth grade
middle school students for the first and second interscholastic sport. For extracurricular clubs and
intramural athletics fees will be $50 annually. The maximum family fee is $600 per household.
A reduction in the Pay to Participate fee for athletics, intramurals and club activities will be
available to students with financial hardships. Participants in the Troy School District’s free or
reduced lunch programs will quality for this reduction. This information will be kept confidential.
For more information or to make a payment, please visit the district’s main Web site at
www.troy.k12.mi.us and click on the “PaySchools” link.
Student Council
The Student Council is the official voice of the student body. The Council attempts the
following:
To organize and implement student activities
To promote school spirit and high morale
To maintain cooperation between the students, faculty and administration
To introduce the practice of group structure and meeting organization
To encourage leadership and responsibility for all students at Smith
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Student Council is open to all students who meet the eligibility requirements, which are a
minimum grade point of 2.0, behavior/citizenship marks not lower than a 2.0 and teacher
evaluations. Any student may run for an office or the cabinet. Elections are in the spring for
officers. Student Council is an honored position that requires a great deal of effort, leadership
and responsibility.
Dances
After-school parties (dances) are held on a regular basis. There is usually an admission fee to
attend. Dances last from 3:00-4:15 p.m. Students will not be allowed to leave a dance early
unless his/her parent comes into school to get them or sends in a note with their child requesting
the student be allowed to leave early. This includes any adult picking up their child's friends or
neighborhood children without written permission. Dances are limited to Smith students only.
Activity busses are available to take students home after dances. The bus will travel to a central
point in each subdivision in the Smith attendance area.
STUDENT HEALTH
Clinic
Smith has a health clinic located in the office area. This area is designed to assist students who
are ill or injured. Services provided in the clinic are limited to allowing students to rest, taking
temperatures, and aiding students with cuts and bruises. Aspirin or medication other than
prescribed (see Medication) cannot be administered. The clinic is not a long-term care facility.
After a reasonable amount of time (usually 15 minutes), a decision will be made whether the
parent will be contacted to pick up the child or he/she will return to class.
Student Immunizations
The state law requires that any student enrolling in a Michigan school for the first time must
show proof of immunization against the following diseases: diphtheria, tetanus, measles,
pertussis, poliomyelitis, rubella, mumps and chickenpox (or date of having had chickenpox) and
the Hepatitis B Series, or a statement signed by the parent or guardian to the effect that there is a
religious or other objection to the immunization. New enrollees, including kindergartners, will
not be allowed to attend without the required immunization or waiver.
Medication
There may be times when a student will need to take medication during school hours. State and
School District Policy require that any request for a student to have medication dispensed during
the school day MUST be accompanied by an Authorization for Medication form signed by the
parents and physician. Instructions and prescribed dosage must be included on the form.
Medication must be brought to school by the parent and all medication, with the exception of
inhalers and epi-pens, must be kept in the school office and be dispensed by school district
personnel. Extra medication must be retrieved at the end of the school year by parents. Any
changes in dosage or instructions MUST be accompanied by a new Medication Authorization
form. Forms are available in the office.
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STUDENT ID CARDS
All Smith students will be issued a student ID card. This ID card should be carried with the
student at all times. The ID card also serves as the student's library card and Point of Sale access
card in the cafeteria. Replacement cards will be issued at the cost of $3.00
STUDENT VISITORS
On occasion, students will request to have a visitor attend school with them for a day. As a rule,
this practice is discouraged. This is especially true for friends or relatives that attend school in
neighboring communities or non-public schools and would like to visit Smith when his/her
school is not in session. There are times when guests from out of town are permitted to visit
Smith. All requests must be cleared by the principal or assistant principal. A form may be
picked up from the main office to be signed by ALL the student's teachers, and returned to the
office for final approval. This must be done a minimum of 24 hours in advance. No visitor
requests will be approved after Memorial Day.
SUPPORT SERVICES
Counseling
The Smith Middle School Guidance Program is developed with the purpose of meeting the
social, personal and academic needs of each individual student in this crucial period of transition
and development.
The counselors view the middle school years as primarily the time for a youngster to explore
further and learn more about "self." Thus, the middle school counselors concentrate their
energies and skills in helping students gain knowledge of their needs, values, abilities, strengths
and weaknesses. Following are some ways in which the counselors help Smith students:
Personal Counseling
Group Counseling, i.e. Bereavement, Divorce, Concerned Persons, Social Skills
Scheduling, academic monitoring, standardized testing, career education and planning
Students are assigned to counselors alphabetically. Students may see either counselor should
they have a concern. Counselor involvement with students can be initiated by the student,
parent, teacher or counselors. Students may sign up in the counseling office to see a counselor.
Psychologist
A school psychologist is assigned to Smith and is in our school two days per week. The
psychologist's services are initiated by referral. Requests for service are handled through the
counselors, administrators or the Special Education Office.
Social Worker
Smith Middle School has a social worker assigned to the building three days per week. Requests
for social work services can be made through the counselors or administrators.
Speech Pathologist
Our speech pathologists work with students at Smith two days a week. Students identified as
needing speech or language support will receive service each week.
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Teacher Consultant
The integrative consultant works with assigned special education students individually and/or in
small groups to provide support and assistance in the least restrictive environment. The
integrative consultant monitors student programs and progress and provides assistance to both
the special and general education teachers.
ESL/Bilingual
Support to students whose native language is one other than English is provided in two levels.
Students may be scheduled with an ESL (English as a Second Language) class or receive support
from a bilingual tutor. The level of service is determined by a student's proficiency in English
and scores on nationally normed tests.
TESTING OUT OF A CLASS
Students have the opportunity to “test out” of a class. The deadline for submitting the “Waiving a
Course Through Testing Out” form to the building principal (Troy High School for high school
level classes, Smith Middle School for middle school level classes) will be announced in
October. Please contact your child’s counselor if you have any questions.
TRANSPORTATION
Bike Riders
A rack is located at the southeast end of the building for all students riding their bikes to school.
It is expected that bike riders ride on the sidewalk, where possible, cross at traffic lights, show
proper courtesy for cars, busses and pedestrians, and ride safely at all times. When arriving or
leaving school, it is expected that bike riders will use the sidewalks to and from the bike rack and
not cut through the parking lot. Students not riding safely or courteously may lose their privilege
to ride bikes to school. All bikes should be locked with some type of chain or lock. These same
safety rules apply to roller blades and skateboards.
Bus Transportation
Many Smith students ride a bus to and from school. Student safety is a top priority of our
Transportation Department. Good conduct is expected of all students. The Student Code of
Conduct is in effect while the student is riding the bus or at the bus stop.
Be at the bus stop five minutes before pick-up time in the morning and be on the bus at
the designated departure time from school.
Show respect for private property near the bus.
Treat the bus equipment as you would your parents’ car. Students damaging bus
equipment will pay for replacement or repair.
Take pride in the appearance of your bus. Help keep it clean.
Respond positively to requests made by the bus driver.
Know the safety rules and student responsibilities for school bus riders listed in The
Student Code of Conduct.
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If a student desires to ride a different bus to go home with a friend and there is space available on
the bus that day, the following procedure is to be followed:
1. A note, signed by a parent is written stating the name of their student, the student they are
going home with and the date.
2. The note is presented at the main office in the morning (before lunch time). It will be
signed by an administrator.
3. Students may pick up the signed passes during lunchtime to then present them to the bus
driver.
4. Students using a public bus for transportation to offsite activities after school must have a
permission slip signed by a parent on file in the main office.
Student Drop Off and Pick Up
Parents dropping off students before school must use the front parking lot middle lane. Parents
should then pull forward as far along the lane as possible before allowing students to exit their
vehicle. Do not drop your children off in the lane farthest from the school (next to Donaldson) as
this places students in danger of being hit by cars following the correct procedure who are
driving in the middle lane. Students are to be picked up in the middle lane as well. The lane
closest to the building is for bus use only and may not be used for student drop-off or pick-up.
VISITING SMITH MIDDLE SCHOOL
The staff and administration welcome and encourage you to visit our building. Anytime you
visit Smith, you must check into the office upon your arrival and receive a visitor's badge.
Parents and family members should never go directly to the classroom to get a student, deliver
materials or see a teacher at any time.
WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURE
When a student is moving from Smith during the school year, parents should initiate the
withdrawal procedure as soon as possible by contacting the office in person or by letter. A
withdrawal form must be completed, books turned in and fines paid before the student leaves.
Copies of student records may be issued to the parents, but the actual file will be sent to the new
school upon receipt of a Request for Records form.
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G-1005 TROY SCHOOL DISTRICT NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY
In compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, it is the policy
of the Troy School District that no person shall, on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, gender, age,
disability, height, weight, or marital status be illegally excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to
discrimination during any program, activity, or service or in employment.
In accordance with Federal regulations, Troy School District has appointed the Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources,
as the Title VI, Title IX, Section 504/ADA, and Age Discrimination Act Coordinator. Any questions, suggestions, or complaints
retarding a possible or perceived violation of this policy of nondiscrimination should be directed to this administrator, who is
responsible for administering the nondiscrimination grievance procedure:
Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources
Title VI, Title IX, Section 504/ADA and Age Discrimination Act Coordinator
Troy School District
4400 Livernois Road
Troy, MI 48098-4799
Voice 248.823.4000
ANTIDISCRIMINATION GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE Any student or employee of the District who believes that he or she has been discriminated against, denied a benefit, or excluded
from participation in any District educational program or activity on the basis of sex (including sexual harassment), race, color,
religion, national origin, age (employees only), height, weight, marital status, or handicap shall file a written grievance with
Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources, who is the designated compliance administrator. Grievance forms may be obtained
in the Human Resources Department. Individuals are encouraged to discuss their concern informally with the staff member
involved before a formal grievance form is filed. The compliance administrator can often help in attempting to resolve the
grievance and will, if the individual desires, accompany him or her at all meetings with staff members.
Formal Grievance Procedure Step 1: If a grievance is not resolved informally, the individual shall submit a written grievance form to the immediate supervisor
or administrator within 10 work days of the incident. The procedure will then be as follows:
1. Not later than next work day – administrator or supervisor must send copy of grievance to Assistant Superintendent,
Human Resources.
2. Within 5 work days of grievance filing date – supervisor or administrator meets with grievant.
3. Within 3 work days of meeting – supervisor or administrator gives written answer to grievant on grievance form.
Step 2:
4. Within 3 work days of receipt of answer – grievant (if not satisfied) must appeal to the Assistant Superintendent,
Human Resources.
5. Within 10 work days of receipt of appeal – Assistance Superintendent, Human Resources (or Deputy Superintendent, if
appropriate) meets with grievant.
6. Within 5 work days of meeting – Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources or Deputy Superintendent gives written
answer.
Step 3:
7. Within 3 work days of receipt of answer – grievant (if not satisfied) must appeal to the Superintendent.
8. Within 10 work days of receipt of appeal – Superintendent meets with grievant.
9. Within 5 work days of meeting – Superintendent gives written answer. This decision is final and binding on all parties.
Additional Provisions The Superintendent, Deputy Superintendent, and Assistant Superintendent, Human Resources may designate representatives
to act for them in their functions as described above.
A grievance not filed or appealed within the specified time limits will be conclusively deemed abandoned. Failure of any
administrator or supervisor to hold a meeting or render a decision allows automatic appeal to the next level. Time limits may be
extended only by mutual written agreement.
All records concerning a grievance will be treated confidentially. No record of a grievance will be kept in a staff member’s
personnel file if the final decision is that there was no reasonable basis for the grievance. No record of a grievance will be kept in
the grievant’s file.