WMS Student Handbook 2025-26

The staff of Westfield Middle School would like to take this opportunity to express its desire that all students have a successful and rewarding middle school experience. The middle school years are a time when adolescents begin to come into their own and explore their independence. This handbook is to help aid your child in being accountable for their education and most importantly their success. We encourage you, the parent/guardian, to become active participants in this journey your child is undertaking. A strong, collaborative partnership between home and school is critical to the success your child will experience here at WMS and will help lay the groundwork for future social and academic endeavors. Our basic philosophy is grounded in living by our five Guiding Principles: Be Respectful, Be Responsible, Be Hardworking, Be Compassionate, and Be Honest.

The middle school provides the opportunity for students to explore and discover their interests, skills, needs, and capabilities.

The program at the middle school emphasizes the teaching of executive function skills and provides opportunities to make those basic skills functional for every student. The middle school curriculum emphasizes the teaching of a combination of academics, executive functioning skills, and social emotional learning that will ultimately lead to a democratic way of life. In order to do so, WMS commits to:

1. Provide a climate in which the student can demonstrate his/her ability to practice self-discipline;
2. Provide opportunities for the student to make choices and assume responsibilities;
3. Maintain an atmosphere that provides each student with a feeling of security and individual worth;
4. Encourage the student to act toward others with intelligence and understanding;
5. Help each student to develop personal and social values;
6. Provide opportunities for creative expression;
7. Provide opportunities for the student to participate and share in community life;
8. Help each student discover his/her own particular aptitudes, interests, and needs;
9. Encourage each student to think critically;
10. Help each student master the academic and social skills necessary for success;
11. Recognize and provide for individual differences;
12. Build and foster a close trusting relationship with an adult in the building to serve as an advocate for the student; and
13. Provide the tools necessary to lead a healthy, active lifestyle.
     

WWS Vision

All Rocks Are Life Ready!

WWS Mission

To ensure high levels of learning and growth for each student.

WMS Mantra

Our mantra at WMS is #361.  #361 stands for the 180 days we have students in 7th grade and the 180 days we have students in 8th grade.  Our goal is that students will be prepared for the 361st day, or the first day of high school by making authentic connections with students, unlocking their potential, and transforming their lives. 

Westfield Washington Schools fosters the development of students by providing a variety of opportunities for students to acquire and apply the necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes to navigate life challenges in an ethical and productive way. WWS cultivates five core guiding principles - Compassion, Honesty, Hard Work, Responsibility and Respect.

An integral part of WWS mission is to intentionally build a caring, participatory, and safe learning environment. By utilizing a variety of learning practices, programs, and processes, WWS actively strives to develop the necessary skills students need to be successful academically and ultimately in life.
 

This is your copy of the Westfield Middle School Student Handbook. The Student Handbook is designed to provide students and parents/guardians of Westfield Middle School with information regarding the operation of the school and student expectations.

Student dress is the responsibility of both the student and the parent/guardian. Students are expected to dress themselves within the framework of individual pride, decency, cleanliness and safety. Clothing should be comfortable, loose enough, long enough, modest, in good taste and suitable for school. We want to recognize that the majority of our students have exercised good taste and parents are to be commended for their child’s appearance.

Freedom of expression may not be used to present material or actions, which tend to be obscene or slanderous, or to defame character, or to advocate violation of federal, state and local laws, or official school policies, rules, and regulations.

Clothing that is deemed to draw undue attention from students or school personnel is not acceptable school attire. The following guidelines will assist the student in making the proper choices and decisions regarding school attire.

1. No hats, or hoods should  be worn during the day; including but not limited to, baseball caps, beanies, berets, cowboy hats, top hats, helmets, etc. Exceptions will be made for religious headwear such as, but not limited to, hijabs and yarmulkes.
2. No sunglasses.
3. Clothing that is ripped to the point of immodesty or reveals a student’s undergarments are prohibited.
4. Sagging pants, shorts, or skirts lower than two inches below the hips or naval is not permitted.
5. Winter gear, such as coats, gloves and snow boots, are to be kept in students' lockers during the school day.
6. Dress that could cause damage to school property is prohibited, such as black soled shoes that mark floors, cleats, metal plates, heavy boots or large metal rivets or buckles.
7. Items and/or clothing that directly or indirectly depict or insinuate drugs, alcohol, sex, vulgarity, obscenity, illegal activity, or slander are not permitted.
8. Items or clothing that could harm others, or is a hazard to school property, such as heavy chains, spikes, and metal cleats are not permitted.
9. Shoes with rollers or wheels are not permitted.
10. Clothing that reveals underwear or lack thereof is not permitted.
11. Bottoms that do not fully cover a student’s buttocks, or other private areas, when standing, sitting, squatting, bending, and reaching (normal physical movement in a school day) are not permitted.
12. Tops that do not fully cover a student’s chest, back, midriff and torso when standing, sitting, squatting, bending, and reaching (normal physical movement in a school day) are not permitted.
13. Spaghetti strap, halter, tube top, or strapless shirts are not permitted.
14. Robes, slippers, and blankets are not permitted.

We recognize that some exceptions to dress code must be made in special circumstances as deemed by administration..

Should a student report to school in attire that  violates dress code, the administrator may call the parent/guardian for either the student to be picked-up or to bring appropriate attire for the student to wear for the day. The school may provide alternative clothing for the student. The building principal, or designee, will determine whether the attire violates dress code or creates a disruption to the learning environment. Dress code violations will be handled per discipline code (refer to school discipline procedure.) The student will be provided appropriate clothing if possible or take an absence for each period he/she waits for a change of clothes to be delivered.  Refusal to comply will be treated as insubordination. The judgment and decision of the school administration is final in all dress code matters.
 

Late work will only be accepted through the summative assessment for full credit. Any assignments not handed in during the time allotted, will be coded as missing or not handed in. Students and parents are responsible for following PowerSchool and Canvas to monitor any late or missing assignments that need to be completed.

2024-25 Regular Bell Schedule

8:45-9:30	Period 1	45 minutes
9:35-10:20	Period 2	45 minutes
10:25-11:10	Period 3	45 minutes

 

Period 4
7th Grade				8th Grade
If you have B lunch...		If you have D lunch...		If you have A lunch...		If you have C lunch...
11:15-11:38 SRT (23 min)		11:15-11:38  SRT (23 min)		11:15-11:38 A Lunch (23 min)		11:15-12:07 Period 4 (52 min)
11:43-12:07  B Lunch (25 min)		11:43-12:36  Period 4 (53 min)		11:43-12:36  Period 4 (53 min)
12:12-1:05   Period 4 (53 min)						12:12-12:36  C Lunch (25 min)
		12:41-1:05  D Lunch (25 min)		12:41:-1:05 SRT (25 min)		12:41-1:05 SRT (25 min)

 

1:10-1:55	Period 5	45 minutes
2:00-2:45	Period 6	45 minutes
2:50-3:35	Period 7	45 minutes

 

2024-25 Wednesday Bell Schedule

9:15 - 9:55	Period 1	40 minutes
10:00 - 10:40	Period 2	40 minutes
10:45 - 11:25	Period 3	40 minutes

 

Period 4
7th Grade				8th Grade
If you have B lunch...		If you have D lunch...		If you have A lunch...		If you have C lunch...
11:30 - 11:53 SRT		11:30 - 11:53 SRT		11:30 - 11:53 A  Lunch		11:30 - 12:22 Period 4   52 minutes
11:58 - 12:22 B Lunch		11:58 - 12:51 Period 4   53 minutes		11:58 - 12:51  Period 4   53 minutes
12:27 - 1:20   Period 4    53 minutes						12:27 - 12:51 C Lunch
		12:56 - 1:20   D Lunch		12:56 - 1:20 SRT		12:56 - 1:20 SRT

 

1:25 - 2:05	Period 5	40 minutes
2:10 - 2:50	Period 6	40 minutes
2:55 - 3:35	Period 7	40 minutes

2024-25 2 Hour Delay Bell Schedule    

10:45-11:10	Period 1	25 minutes
11:15-11:40	Period 2	25 minutes

 

Period 4
7th Grade				8th Grade
If you have B lunch...		If you have D lunch...		If you have A lunch...		If you have C lunch...
11:45 - 12:08  SRT		11:45 - 12:08  SRT		11:45 - 12:08 A  Lunch		11:45 - 12:37 Period 4   52 minutes
12:13 - 12:37 B Lunch		12:13 - 1:06  Period 4                       53 minutes		12:13 - 1:06 Period 4   53 minutes
12:42 - 1: 35 Period 4   53 minutes						12:42 - 1:06 C Lunch
		1:11 - 1:35  D Lunch		1:11 - 1:35 SRT		1:11 - 1:35 SRT

 

1:40 - 2:05	Period 3	25 minutes
2:10 - 2:35	Period 5	25 minutes
2:40 - 3:05	Period 6	25 minutes
3:10 - 3:35	Period 7	25 minutes

 

 

Student Hours

On Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, the instructional day runs from 8:45 am - 3:35 pm. From 8:25 am - 8:35 am, students must remain in the cafeteria or LGI and may not be in the hallways. From 8:35 am - 8:45 am, students may be in the hallways to get prepared for the day and report to their first class.

On Wednesdays, the instructional day runs from 9:15 am - 3:35 pm. From 8:55 am - 9:05 am, students must remain in the cafeteria or LGI and may not be in the hallways. From 9:05 am - 9:15 am, students may be in the hallways to get prepared for the day and report to their first class.

On all days, from 3:35 - 3:45 pm, students may be in the hallways to gather their belongings and get to their after school destination (bus, parent pick up, practice/rehearsal). Students riding a bus should be on the bus no later than 3:45. Students who remain in the building after 3:45 must be under the supervision of an adult.

Students arriving after the instructional day has started must enter at the north main entrance and report to the main office for an admittance slip.

In The Classroom

Learning occurs best in an atmosphere of respect and order. Horseplay of any kind, such as, but not limited to, annoying or pestering other students and making unnecessary noises or throwing projectiles is not acceptable behavior. Students must give respectful attention to classroom activities and show courtesy to students and teachers at all times.

Between Classes

Following dismissal from class by the teacher, students will proceed to their lockers or next class in an orderly manner. Horseplay of any kind, such as, but not limited to, running, annoying or touching other students, PDA (Public Display of Affection), making unnecessary noise, or throwing projectiles, jumping and slapping walls above doorways, pushing up ceiling tiles, and hitting any hanging items such as clocks and hallway signs are not acceptable behavior. Students are asked to stay to the right side of the halls as much as possible and avoid blocking the flow of traffic in the hallways. Students are expected to be on time to class as tardiness decreases the available amount of student learning time and interferes with teacher instruction.

Students may not bring book bags or other bags to class. Bags must stay in the student’s locker from 8:45 am - 3:35 pm.
 

SRT

Student Resource Time (SRT) is a twenty-five minute period that takes place each day. This time will be used for SRT team building, academic support/remediation/enrichment, general academic assistance purposes including study skills, organizational skills, and test taking skills.

Bus Lot Expectations

Following dismissal from class by the teacher, students will proceed to their lockers in an orderly manner. Once students have obtained the needed materials to go home they should proceed to the bus lot or pick up line. Students should follow the rules of the hallways and classroom when on the bus lot. Students are asked to go directly to their bus once outside.Students should not wander throughout the bus lot, stand or wait for other students to come out of the building, throw
projectiles, PDA, chase or run around or board other buses they are not assigned to. Once on their assigned bus students are not to get off the bus without permission from their bus driver.

Parent Drop-Off and Pick-Up

Parents/guardians who drop off and/or pick up their children should park along the circle drive at either the North Main Entrance or the South Main Entrance. Any parent/guardian who wishes to enter the school building must park in the north side parking lot, enter through the North Main Entrance, and immediately report to the Main Office to sign in with photo identification. Parents/Guardians are not permitted to enter the school through the South Main Entrance during the school day or during drop- off/pick- up times.

Vehicle Idling

Per school board policy, drivers of all public and private vehicles are to turn off the engine if the vehicle is to be stopped for more than five minutes in locations where vehicle exhaust may be drawn into the building or while on school grounds. This includes parking lots and parent drop off and pick up zones.

Emergency School Delay/Cancellation/Dismissal

The cancellation or late beginning of school will be broadcast via the best method available. Parents will also be contacted through School Messenger , our emergency contact system. Parents are encouraged to keep phone contacts updated in PowerSchool. Please do not call the superintendent’s office or school office to ask about the closing of school.

Certain situations may require releasing students from school before the end of the day or relocating them from one school building to another. If students are released early or relocated, the school district will notify parents by providing information via School Messenger Information will also be available on the school corporation website and through social media channels.

If there is an emergency school closing during school hours, it is imperative that your child knows exactly what he/she is supposed to do.

Example 1:  If your child is to go home he/she would always have a key or know where one is kept.
Example 2: If your child is not to go home he/she must know where he/she is supposed to go.

If you transport your child to and from school, please make arrangements with someone who will always be able to pick him/her up.

Emergency closing arrangement information on each student is requested from each parent/guardian the first week of school. Please keep this and other emergency information up to date during the school year in PowerSchool.

If a bus driver or other school person believes a child may be harmed by releasing him or her from a bus or school, and the parent or guardian is not present, alternative arrangements may be made. The parent or guardian will pay any cost for these services.

School Visitors

A SafeVisitor background check will be required for anyone who visits our schools and will spend unsupervised time with any student, including family members of our students.

Examples of activities in the schools where visitors will need a completed SafeVisitor background check are listed below:

Classroom Parties
Classroom Volunteers/Helpers/Room Parents
Field Trip Chaperones

Examples of activities that will not require a formal background check are listed below. These visitors will still follow normal school check-in procedures.

Classroom Guest Speakers
Parent/Teacher Conferences/Case Conferences
Special Events (Grandparent’s Day/Famous Hoosiers/etc.)
School Programs
Visiting school office area or dropping off items at the school

Background checks are good for four years at any school in the district. These background checks will cost $12.95 (additional fees may apply) and can be acquired via the link below.

Please note - this process could take 3 to 6 business days. Once approved, please be on the lookout for a badge notification email from “info@safevisitorsolutions.com.” Your badge will be attached as a PDF. You can either print it, save it on your phone, or download the SafeVisitor app. A photo will be required and added upon your first visit to the school.

Web address for SafeVisitor process:
https://secure.safevisitorsolutions.com/Safe/Volunteer/003471/volunteer 
You can find more information at www.wws.k12.in.us/Page/1474 
 

Accident Insurance for School-Aged Children

Student accident insurance is an inexpensive type of insurance that should be considered as a supplement to your regular insurance plan since it is very limited in scope. This insurance is made available as a courtesy to you and is not sponsored by the school.

The school carries no coverage on your child and can make no payments to cover medical costs. The insurance plan offered covers accidents which require medical attention that happen at school and on the bus. An application can be completed on the district website under Parents/Parent Resources.

Assemblies and Convocations

Students are expected to behave in a proper manner and to be attentive during the program. Horseplay of any kind, such as, but not limited to, annoying or pestering other students, making unnecessary noises, or throwing projectiles is not acceptable behavior. Students who cannot conduct themselves properly will lose their privilege to attend any assemblies or convocations and will be assigned a study room during those times with the same guidelines as in-school suspension.

Bicycles and Skateboards

Bicycles ridden to school should be placed in the racks provided and not removed until dismissal from school. A lock should be placed on the bicycle for protection against theft. All students who ride bicycles to school should be extremely careful to observe traffic laws and safety rules. Riding “double” is a violation of traffic laws. The parking lot and streets around school are no place to perform “tricks” because of the congestion and traffic. Riding these items must be done on sidewalks.  Other wheeled riding objects such as but not limited to skateboards, longboards, hoverboards, motorized scooters etc. are not to be ridden on school property and must be safely stored in a locker or locked on the bike rack.

Book Bags—Gym Bags

Students who bring book bags or gym bags (which include rope bags) to school must keep them in their assigned locker throughout the school day. Because of safety reasons, students are not permitted to bring book bags or gym bags to class. Students are encouraged to purchase bags that will fit into a locker.

Canvas

Canvas is our learning management system.  Parents can choose to create a Canvas observer account in order to see their student’s assignment due dates, teacher feedback on graded assignments, class announcements, and other course content.  To learn more about Canvas observer accounts, click here.

Electronic Devices/Cell Phones/Communication Devices

Students are prohibited from using a “wireless communication device” (as defined by Indiana law) during “instructional time” (as defined by Indiana Law). Teachers may give students permission to use a wireless communication device for educational purposes during instructional time. In addition, students are not allowed to have devices out during lunch or passing periods without permission from school personnel.
 
Students are permitted to use a wireless communication device:

1. in the event of an emergency;
2. to manage a student's health care;
3. if included in a student’s IEP;
4. if included in the student’s plan developed under Section 504 of the   federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973; and (5) if otherwise required by law;
5. with permission from school personnel.

 
Students are assigned a one-to-one device from the school for educational purposes. Students should keep personal cell phones and/or other wireless communications out of sight during each class period. Students will be accountable to the discipline code if they violate this rule. Checking the time, using a calculator, or using other cell phone functions will be considered usage. Text messaging, audio recording, or videos may only happen with permission from school personnel. The administration may confiscate any electronic device for inappropriate use.
 
If a student brings a personal device to school, the school is not liable for any loss or damage to it. The Technology Use Form must be completed in PowerSchool. All devices should be clearly labeled with the owner's name.
 
It is preferred that parents contact the receptionist if they need to contact a student (or vice versa) during the school day. The student will be provided with a pass to come to the office and take the call if needed.

Curricular Materials and Student Fees

The Indiana Department of Education covers the cost of curricular materials for students. Parents will be invoiced for student fees, covering consumable and perishable items in a student’s classes. Full payment or a payment plan should be completed by the end of the first six weeks of school. 

If a student's schedule changes during the year, fees may be adjusted based on the new classes. The parent may incur an additional cost or be due a credit. If a credit is on the account, a refund will be issued by the end of June.

Westfield Washington Schools requires all unpaid fees not on a payment plan to be sent to a collection agency by the end of the school year. Any account turned over to collections will have an additional $10.00 fee added to its outstanding balance.

If a student is withdrawn from school, the parent will receive a prorated refund for any consumable item that has not been used. However, many consumable materials used in classes lose their value once they have been used for any part of a class.

Student fees are established annually and approved by the Board of School Trustees. Payment is collected at the district level. Payment can be made at the administration building with cash, check, credit card (Visa/Mastercard/Discover), or by completing a payment contract. Payment can also be made online through the PowerSchool interface. Payments made via credit card will be subject to credit card fees.
 

Permanent Behavior Record (Every Student Succeeds Act)

Westfield Washington Schools must comply with the Every Student Succeeds Act. Information regarding out-of-school suspensions and/or expulsions will remain part of each student’s permanent record that begins in kindergarten and concludes when a student graduates, transfers outside the district, or is expelled. Information about in-school suspensions or punishments by individual teachers, such as an after-school detention, is not part of the permanent record. These records will not appear on transcripts of grades which colleges receive. This information will be shared with other schools only when the student transfers. For more information, contact the Director of Student Services at 867-8006.

Field Trips

Each grade level may plan field trips that relate directly to the curriculum being studied. A fee is assessed for admission and transportation costs. It is School Board policy that all children going on field trips have a signed permission slip. These forms must be signed by the parent and/or guardian and returned by the day of the trip unless otherwise designated by the teacher. When space allows, there may be opportunities for parents/guardians to chaperone field trips. All parents/guardians serving as chaperones must complete the Safe Visitor background check as described above in the “School Visitor” section. For safety and supervision reasons, younger siblings are not permitted to attend field trips.

Children who have failed to return a signed permission slip will remain at the building and will be assigned alternative work. *A student without proof of proper immunizations is considered in violation of IC 20-34-4-5 students will not be allowed to attend field trips and/or extracurricular activities until immunization records are up to date and on file with the school nurse. Disciplinary action during the school year may result in restrictions for attendance on field trips.

A student who has accumulated five (5) absences for the current quarter may not be permitted to participate on a field trip. The Administrator when making this decision will consider extenuating circumstance. 

Administrators reserve the right not to allow a student to go on a field trip due to issues such as attendance, tardies, or discipline.

Lockers

All students are assigned a hall locker in which their books, materials, coats, etc. are to be placed during school hours. Students are issued a combination for their lockers. It is the responsibility of the student to secure his/her lockers at all times. The care of the locker is the responsibility of the student. Lockers are the property of the school; therefore, students cannot presume an expectation of privacy. Student lockers can be examined by the principal or his/her designee under appropriate circumstances.  Listed below are helpful tips in keeping your locker safe and secure:

1. Each student should memorize his/her combination.
2. No student is to disclose the combination to another student.
3. Each student should keep the locker locked to ensure the security of their property. The school is not responsible for items that are lost or stolen.
4. A student should not have access to another student’s locker.
5. Under no circumstances can students share the same locker.
6. Students are responsible for the contents in their assigned locker.
7. No items should be attached to the locker door without school administrations prior approval.
8. Students should not pre-set lockers to open or tamper with the locking mechanisms.

Media Center

The Media Center is open from 8:45 am to 3:35 pm, except on Wednesdays when it opens at 9:15 am. Students need a pass to go to the Media Center during class time. Students may check out as many books as they desire as long as they do not have any overdue materials or outstanding debts with the Media Center. All general circulation books are checked out for two weeks. Books may be renewed for an additional two weeks.

Money

Children are discouraged from bringing money to school unless there is a definite need for it. The school is not responsible for the loss of money.

Restrooms

Restrooms may be used during the school day. To be excused from class time, a student must have a pass from the classroom teacher. Restrooms should be used by students in the area closest to their classroom. Restroom privileges should not be abused. No phone use, picture taking, or videotaping is permitted in restrooms. Every effort should be made to keep the restrooms clean. Students caught or found guilty of vandalizing or defacing restrooms will face appropriate disciplinary action.

School Messenger

School Messenger is the WWS electronic parent/guardian notification system. Emergency notifications, weather delays, closings, student documentation, general building information and district information are sent via voice messaging, text messages and email notification to the phone numbers and email addresses provided. Email is generally used for non-emergency situations (i.e. weekly newsletters or district announcements). For an emergency or immediate activity, the system calls the parents/guardians’ listed number and sends a text to the cell phone number provided. Please be sure to keep accurate email addresses and phone numbers in PowerSchool. Parents/guardians can update their email and phone number by notifying the front desk of their child’s school.

TalkingPoints

Westfield Washington Schools uses TalkingPoints as a multilingual communication tool between teachers and families.  Families can choose to receive messages via SMS text messaging or through the free FAMILIES/TalkingPoints mobile app for Apple or Android.  To ensure messages are received from your child’s teachers, make sure your contact information for the “Father” and “Mother” fields in PowerSchool are correct.  When a teacher sends a message, TalkingPoints will automatically use these two phone numbers. If you would like to add additional contacts, please reach out to your child’s teachers.

Technology Guidelines (Policy 13000-03)

The use of technology (this policy includes, but is not limited to): telephones, cellular devices, digital media players, tablets, laptop and desktop computers and workstations, direct radio communication, Internet access, voice mail, e-mail, text messaging, direct messaging through device applications, facsimile transmission and receipt, artificial intelligence, including
language-generation tools and large language models, and any computer based research and/or communication) is a privilegeAbuse or misuse of the equipment, policies, or rules will lead to a loss of privileges or disciplinary action by school administration. Students and their parents/guardians are responsible for the cost of repair or the cost of replacement of any damage incurred either by vandalism or carelessness. All technology use is governed by the Responsible Use of Technology and Internet Use Policy (A300).

Student owned personal devices and Corporation technology shall be used by students under teacher supervision with the purpose of improving instruction and student learning. A copy of the Policy and Parental Consent form is available in PowerSchool.
 

School Meal Assistance

Financial assistance is available to parents who complete a Household Application for Free and Reduced Price School Meals form and qualify for assistance. The forms are available during registration, online or at the administration building. The form completed must be for the current school year. 
A child is eligible if the total household income and the amount and source of income received by each household member fall within federal guidelines for Free/Reduced Meals.

Smoking, Vaping, and Tobacco Products

Smoking, vaping, and tobacco use are prohibited in and on school grounds. Tobacco and nicotine-based products and look-a-like products such as electronic cigarettes are specifically prohibited by Indiana Statute and Westfield Washington Schools. Tobacco includes, but is not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, smoking tobacco, smokeless tobacco, nicotine, nicotine-delivering devices, chemicals, or devices that produce the same flavor or physical effect of nicotine substances; and any other tobacco or nicotine innovations. Violations will result in serious consequences as outlined in the due process section of this handbook.
 

The school cafeteria is maintained as a vital part of the health program of the school. A well-balanced lunch is offered at a reasonable price for all students. In addition, an a la carte lunch is available for students. Lunch accounts can be accessed using www.wws.k12.in.us Parents/Lunchtime. Parents will have access to viewing what purchases are made and the child's account balance all in real time.

The lunch/breakfast program is on the computer system that records when each child eats and keeps track of the money in his/her account. If your child packs their lunch and buys milk, the milk is charged to their account as an a la carte item. All charges will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian. Students will not be allowed to charge any a la carte items if their account is in the negative. Notification will be sent when negative balances occur. If account balances exceed $10.00, parents/guardians will be contacted by the Director of Operations. Any outstanding balance at the end of the school year will be turned over to collections. At that time a $10.00 collection fee will be added to the outstanding balance. At no time will a child be denied a full meal.

Students should enter the cafeteria serving lines in an orderly fashion. Reasonable talking is allowed during the lunch hour and students should remain seated during this time except to return their lunch trays. At all times, students should follow the directions of the cafeteria supervisors. Energy boosting or high caffeine drinks, such as Monster, Celsius, and coffee-based drinks are not permitted at school.

Breakfast is served daily. Students who ride the bus should let the bus driver know that he/she would like to exit the bus to eat school breakfast. All food or drink must be finished in the cafeteria and should be disposed of before leaving the cafeteria. 

Any questions or concerns may be directed to the Food Services Director at 317-867-8000 x10060.

Allergy Guidelines

Our food service department will do our best to never serve products with the following labels:

•     "Contains nuts"
•     "May contain nuts"

Manufacturer's labels are constantly changing, however, we will diligently stay up to date on the labels for your child's protection. Peanut and nut products are allowed to be brought from home. Children with a nut allergy may choose to sit at a "nut free" table. The child with the allergy can bring two friends to sit with as long as those children have a nut free lunch.

If you are ever in question of a menu item, please do not hesitate to contact your Student Nutrition Department at 317-867-8000 x10062.  Any questions or concerns may be directed to the Food Services Director at 317-867-8000 x10060.

Cafeteria Guidelines

1. Students who forget to bring lunch money will be allowed to charge a regular lunch. A maximum credit limit of $10.00 is allowed.
2. Students should remain in seats unless getting food or returning trays. Students are not permitted to leave the cafeteria without approval from an adult supervising the lunch period.
3. Only reasonable talking is allowed.
4. Do not throw any objects in the cafeteria.
5. Students are responsible for cleaning their tables and the area around their tables. Students will not be dismissed until this is done.
6. Respect and consideration should be extended to all people in the cafeteria. This includes physical contact.
7. Student behavior in the cafeteria should be based on courtesy and cleanliness.
8. Running, pushing, or other boisterous behavior will not be tolerated.
9. Previously opened items should not be brought into the cafeteria.
10. Food or drink is to be finished in the cafeteria. 
11. Drinks such as Monster Drinks, those containing energy boosters and any previously opened drinks are not permitted in the cafeteria.

Failure to follow cafeteria guidelines will result in consequence at administrator’s discretion. 
 

The following are Westfield Middle School activities designed to cultivate the overall development of the student.

• Academic Competition Team
• N.J.H.S. (National Junior Honor Society)
• After School Clubs                    
• Spell Bowl
• Athletics                        
• Speech & Debate Team                    
• Band                        
• Yearbook
• Choir                        
• Geography, History, & Science Bee
• Math Counts                    
• Robotics Team

A complete listing of sports, clubs, and teams is available on the WMS website under Students > Clubs & Activities.
 

Health Clinic

The health clinic is staffed by a Registered Nurse provided by Riverview Health and licensed to practice nursing by the State of Indiana. The health clinic is provided to take care of illness and injuries that occur during the school day. Please update your student’s medical information by logging onto PowerSchool found under PARENTS on your school building website. Every school year you will need to verify, update and date the online form. This form is used to provide care for your child, provide information to emergency services, if needed, and allow the school nurse permission to administer the listed school provided over the counter medications.

Health Conditions and/or Emergency Medical Needs & Procedures

If your child has a health condition (e.g. diabetes, asthma, severe food allergy, seizures) that requires the use of medication, emergency treatment, or a medical procedure during the school day, please contact the school nurse.  An individual health care plan or emergency care plan for school and/or school sponsored events will need to be completed by the school nurse.  All procedures including administration of prescription medication, and emergency treatment plans must have a medical order that is completed annually or as needed to ensure up-to-date information.  

Vision & Hearing

Vision and hearing screenings will be conducted for students in designated grades as mandated by the State of Indiana.  If appropriate, parents/guardians will be notified if a student is in need of professional consultation following a screening.  Hearing Screenings are performed by the district Speech and Language Pathologists.  School nurses and local optometrists/ophthalmologists perform the vision screening tests.

Reports to Child Protective Services (Policy A225)

As a school district, we are under duty by State Law to submit a report of any suspected child abuse or neglect to the Indiana Department of Child Services who handle all investigations.  Such a report is made directly to the Department of Child Services and they handle the investigation.

Illness/Injuries at School

To help your student focus on their studies and classroom work we ask that all known illnesses or injuries be treated at home prior to arriving at school.  If a student becomes ill or seriously injured at school and requires special medical attention, the following steps shall be taken:

1. First aid will be given as appropriate.
2. The principal, school nurse, or volunteer health aide will be notified and the student will be sent to the health clinic for medical attention.
3. If the student is not able to continue the school day due to a medical illness or injury, the parent/guardian will be contacted:
   • If contact cannot be made with the parent or guardian at the first report of an illness or injury, the school may send the child home with the person whom the parent/guardian has indicated.  Please remember to keep all emergency contact information current in PowerSchool by updating home, cell, and work phone numbers, as well as, the names and phone numbers of friends and/or relatives who can be reached if the parent/guardian is not available.
   • If a parent/guardian has no means of getting the child home, the school may send the child home in accordance with the parent’s request.
   • If a parent or guardian cannot be contacted and there is serious injury or illness, the school may secure the services of emergency medical services or any person previously designated in writing by the parent/guardian.  The school assumes no responsibility for the emergency services or fees.
   • All school personnel should be informed (on a need to know basis) of children who have special health problems that may require special attention when an injury or illness occurs (hemophilia, diabetes, epilepsy, allergies, etc.).  It is the parent’s/guardian’s responsibility to inform school personnel of any health problems and update information on a yearly basis or as needed.
4. All personal injury accidents that require special medical attention occurring at school, on the way to or from school, or at related activities are to be reported in writing using the Incident Report Form.
   • The Incident Report Form will be completed as soon as possible.
   • One copy of the Incident Report Form will be retained in the health clinic and one filed within three (3) days of the incident at Westfield Washington Schools Central Office.
5. Students who are ill may visit the clinic with a pass provided by the teacher.  A daily log is kept of students’ reasons for visiting the clinic and the treatment provided.

Exclusion from School

A child with a contagious illness, disease or fever should not be sent to school.  Please specify on the school attendance line if your child is absent due to a fever, contagious disease, or chronic illness.

District exclusion criteria states students are to be excluded from school for one or more of the following medical conditions or at the school nurse’s discretion.

• Fever—documented temperature of 100° F or above.  Your child must be fever free (less than 100° F) for at least 1 full school day after being sent home with a fever.  After the full day they may return to school once they are fever free (<100˚F) without using fever reducing medication.
• Any rash and fever combined—the student should remain home until fever free for at least 1 full school day and until fever free (<100˚F) without using fever reducing medication.
• All red or pink eyes with pus or drainage present should be evaluated by a physician.  The student may return to school 24 hours after the start of treatment or a physician’s note indicating that no treatment is necessary.
• Vomiting—return to school after 24 hours of no vomiting without medication.
• Diarrhea—return to school after 24 hours of no diarrhea without medication.
• Impetigo—the student should remain home until treatment has been given for at least 24 hours.  Please notify the school nurse of this condition and provide a note from your physician.
• Scabies—the student should remain home until treatment has been given for at least 24 hours.  Please notify the school nurse of this condition and provide a note from your physician.
• Ringworm—the student should remain home until treatment has been started; upon returning to school the area must remain covered at all times, if the area is too large or cannot be covered the student must remain home until the ringworm is gone.
• Chicken pox—the student should remain home until all vesicles (blisters) have scabbed over and no new ones are appearing or lesions are fading
• Strep Throat—the student should remain home until they have had at least a FULL 24 hours of antibiotic treatment and is fever free (<100˚F) without using fever reducing medication.
• Whooping Cough—if your child is suspected of having whooping cough, they must remain home until the test results have been confirmed.  If the test is positive for whooping cough, the student must remain home for 5 FULL days on antibiotics, please notify the school nurse.
• Urinary or Bowel Incontinence --Due to risk of exposure to body fluids, if your child experiences repeated loss of bladder or bowel control at school and body fluids cannot be contained within your child’s clothing and is at risk of exposing others in the school environment to stool or urine,  your child will be sent home and can return, once the child has been properly cleaned up and the child is able to wear clothing that will prevent stool/urine leakage and exposure to others in the school environment.  If this is a result of a medical condition, please provide a medical note to your school nurse.
• IDOH Communicable Diseases Reference Guide—The guidelines set forth by IC 20-34-3-9 and Indiana Department of Health Current Communicable Diseases Reference Guide for School Personnel is followed by the district in determining exclusions, restrictions, and control measures for students and their illnesses.  Due to outbreaks of communicable diseases during the school year, revisions to the reference guide for school personnel may occur after publication and may not be included in this handbook.

School Required Immunizations

Per IC 20-34-4, schools shall require the parent/guardian of a student who is enrolled in the school to furnish a current copy of your students’ immunization record to the school nurse before the first day of school; unless a current copy is on file with the school.    

Specific vaccine information can be found on the district website under Parents, Health Services or contact your school nurse.

Indiana State Law allows these exceptions:  (IC 20-34-4-5): Medical exemption statement written by a physician or religious objection written by parent/guardian that list which immunizations are objected. Exceptions must be re-signed each year by the first day of school.

Immunizations for the underinsured and uninsured are available through the Hamilton County Health Department, call 776-8500 for additional information.

Administration of Medication at School

Administration of Medication at School (Policy 10000-30)—For your child’s safety, all medication needed during school hours or at school functions that are supervised by school staff, will be administered by the nurse, administrator, or trained designated staff in the health clinic.  All medication permission forms are good for only the current school year and must be completed each year.

School Provided Medications

• These medications will only be given to students who have a current parent/guardian signed Medical Information page of the Demographic page in PowerSchool.  

Transportation of Medication

• By Indiana State Law-all medication, both prescription and non-prescription, must be transported to and from the health clinic by a parent or guardian.  This includes over the counter medications.  All medications brought to the school by a student will be held in the health clinic until proper written permission has been obtained.  No medication will be given without proper written permission.
• Students are not permitted to have any medication or drugs in their possession, exception see Emergency Medication information below.

Storage of Medication

• All medication, prescription and non-prescription, must be in the original container and stored in the health clinic.
• All prescription medication must be in a prescription bottle with a current label including the name of the student, name of the medication, correct dosage, and when to administer medication.  All prescription medication requires a medical order from a physician to the school nurse with specific time to be given and dose at school.
• All non-prescription medication (over the counter) must be in the original container with the student’s name written on the label.
• Parents/guardians may provide the clinic medication inventory for up to a 30-school day supply of medication or if less than 30 days left in the school year the maximum number of remaining school days.

Parent/Guardian Permission to Give Medication at School

• If a non-prescription medication request is for a dose greater than that listed on the label, a signed physician’s medical order is required.
• Prescription medication must have a physician medical order indicating time and dose to be given during the school day to the nurse prior to administering any medication; this includes emergency medication, daily medications, and as needed medication.
• All medication that can be given prior to and after school should be given at home.

To Stop a Medication or Change Dose

• Parents/Guardians should notify the school nurse by phone or provide a written note to stop the medication if it is no longer needed at school.
• If a prescription dose is to be changed, it will require an updated medical order from your physician to the nurse.
• All medication must be picked up by the parent/guardian by the last day of school.  Any medication left in the health clinic after the last day of school will be properly disposed of.
• All discontinued medication must be picked up from the health clinic within 1 week of notification.

Emergency Medication and Self-Administered Medications

• Students with a disease or medical condition may carry and self-administer medication for the chronic disease or medical condition when they have an authorization form on file with the school nurse.  The authorization must be completed by the physician and state the following:
• the student has a disease or medical condition for which the medication is prescribed,
• the student has been instructed on how to self-administer the medication, and
• the disease or medical condition requires emergency administration of the medication.
• Contact the school nurse for a copy of the authorization form.

Homeopathic medication, over the counter herbs, minerals, essential oils, vitamins, and other non-FDA approved medications:  Requests to administer these products by parent/guardian at school will not be honored, as there is no standardization, no FDA approval, and no guidelines regarding safety of these products.

Body Safety Programs

In July 2018, the Indiana General Assembly passed legislation that expands the grade levels for body safety education in schools to grades Kindergarten through Grade 12.  (Previously the law required education in grades 2-5). Each school corporation shall make available for inspection to a parent all of the instructional material used in connection with instruction on human sexuality. Prior to a school providing instruction on human sexuality, the school must provide a written request for consent of instruction from an emancipated student or a student’s parent(s). This allows the parent or emancipated student to opt out of the instruction.

Head Lice

Parents/Guardians have the prime responsibility of assisting in the prevention and management of head lice cases through regular checks of their child’s hair and starting immediate treatment when head lice are detected.

While head lice are a nuisance, they do not spread disease and are not a health issue.  Should a case of head lice be brought to the school’s attention, the school nurse will maintain confidentiality at school, verify presence of an active infestation, and bring it to the child’s parent’s/guardian’s attention.  Parents/Guardians, students and school staff will be educated about head lice identification, treatment and prevention.

If at all possible, students should not be excluded from school for having head lice as the management of head lice should not disrupt the educational process of the child.  The need to exclude students from school will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

The policy is supported by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the National Association of School Nurses, and the Hamilton County Health Department.
 

Westfield Middle School has three school counselors. Counselors work with students individually, in a group setting, and in the classroom. Counselors can be reached via the Guidance Office at (317) 867-6607 should parents have any questions or concerns. The following topics are a few reasons why counselors may be contacted:

• Academic Concerns
• Personal/Social Issues
• Scheduling Classes
• Special Education Testing
• Transition from 6th Grade
• Transition to High School
• Tutoring Information
   

All registration at Westfield Washington Schools is submitted online. The link for online registration can be found at www.wws.k12.in.us under Parents/Registration. The following documents can be uploaded during online registration, or the documents can be brought to your child’s school or the administration office within 10 days of completing the online process. If a parent/guardian does not have access to a computer, they may use computers at the district office at 19500 Tomlinson Road, Suite B.

Please have the following documents available:

1. Provide one of the following at the time of enrollment for proof of Washington Township residency.
   • Current purchase, rental, or lease agreement
   • Property tax statement
   • Copy of filed IRS form
   • Voter registration
   • Recent utility bills in the name of the parent/guardian
2. Indiana driver’s license
3. Birth certificate (signed by county health official, hospital records cannot be accepted)
4. Proof of custody (if applicable)
5. Immunization records
6. List of child’s medications (if applicable)
7. Emergency contact information
8. Transcript from previous school
9. IEP (if applicable)
10. Grades in progress (if applicable)
11. Withdrawal papers from previous school (if applicable)
12. Current psycho-educational evaluation (if applicable)
13. ILEARN results

Westfield Washington Schools recognizes and complies with the McKinney-Vento Act.

Withdrawal Procedures

Withdrawal of a student during the year may be arranged through the building secretary. Please call the school office to arrange for a withdrawal.

A parent/guardian may withdraw their child by making an appointment with the guidance office. The appropriate papers will need to be completed. All fees need to be paid in full, all books returned, and Chromebook with charger are to be turned in.
 

eLearning

eLearning days are held in place of cancellation days which would need to be made up later, often in June, by adding days onto the end of the school calendar. When these make-up days are at the end of the school year they do not reflect the learning that was needed at the time of the day off. WWS eLearning days allow students to continue to make educational progress. This is especially important when faced with high stakes tests (ILEARN, AP, IREAD-3, etc.) which have fixed testing dates regardless of the number of cancellation days.  

1. School cancellation days will be eLearning Days unless otherwise communicated.   
2. All classroom work will be posted by 10:00 AM on the day of the cancellation. K-4 students will find their work posted on Google Classroom and have a designated window to complete the work.  5-12 students will find their work on Canvas and have two school days to complete.  For those students who do not have device or internet access, school lab hours will be posted.  In addition, WWS partners with local businesses to provide students the opportunity to use WiFi during operating hours of the business.  
3. Teachers will have set office hours to provide students with instruction and technical support that will be communicated to students and parents.  A tech hotline is also available to support students and parents as issues arise.
4. Attendance will be determined by students logging in and engaging in their classwork over the duration of the eLearning period.
5. Lists of Frequently Asked Questions, staff office hours, Westfield WiFi Partners, and other information can be found on each school's website under the Parents tab.

The above protocols are for eLearning days due to inclement weather or other short-term or emergency situations. Should we need to move to eLearning for an extended period of time, such as the situation with COVID-19, guidance specific to the situation will be communicated.

Grade Reporting to Parents/Guardians

PowerSchool will be used to report and communicate grades to students and parents/guardians. Parents should contact the Guidance Secretary or stop by the office to receive a User ID and Password.

Report Cards

Quarter final grade reports will be available online in PowerSchool. Exact dates for viewing Quarter final grades will be posted on the calendar on the WMS website.

Honor Roll

Honor rolls are determined at the end of each quarter. Students earning “A’s” are recognized on the straight “A” Honor Roll. Students may also be recognized on the “A-B” Honor Roll.

A	=	93%-100%
A-	=	90%-92%
B+	=	87%-89%
B	=	83%-86%
B-	=	80%-82%
C+	=	77%-79%
C	=	73%-76%
C-	=	70%-72%
D+	=	67%-69%
D	=	63%-66%
D-	=	60%-62%
F	=	59% & below

 

Report cards are sent out via PowerSchool. Throughout the quarters, parents/guardians should check their child’s progress in PowerSchool and talk to their child about their social, emotional and academic progress.  If you feel that a conference to discuss your child’s progress is needed, please contact your child’s teacher.

High Ability

Westfield’s high ability services fall under a range of K-12 services in the RtI (Response to Instruction) process. Official identification occurs in late spring for grades K, 2, and 6, with additional qualifications in 8th grade for specific high ability courses at Westfield High School. Early services include flexible grouping, differentiation, and enrichment within the classroom and grade level. Middle and upper services include acceleration and honors/AP/ACP courses. Students may qualify in language arts and/or math. For more information, contact your child’s principal or the Assistant Superintendent - Curriculum & Instruction at, 317-867-8009.

Parent/Guardian Teacher Conferences

Parent/Guardian teacher conferences at the request of the parent/guardian or teacher. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to call the office and make an appointment to meet with teachers or the principal whenever necessary. Parents/Guardians are also invited to participate in a phone conference when time will not permit a personal visit. Each staff member has voicemail and email to make contact convenient for parents/guardians. Once school begins, contact information will be available.

Release of Directory and Student Records/Privacy Act Information (Policy E175-02)

As referenced in Policy E175 and in The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), sensitive information about students is kept confidential. FERPA defines "directory information" as information contained in the education records of a student that would not generally be considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if disclosed. Typically, "directory information" includes information such as student’s name, address, parents’/guardians’ names, major field of study, sex, age, date of birth, grade level and school, school or activity photo, honors and awards, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, height and weight of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, and enrollment status. The law specifies, however, that certain non-sensitive “Directory Information” may be released for any purpose at the discretion of the school corporation, with general notification of such intent. Notification may consist of published policies such as this one.

The permission has been divided into two categories: Print and Electronic. Print publications include the yearbook or student newspaper, printed programs for extracurricular activities, news releases to the local media, district publications, and interviews with local news media. Electronic mediums (internet and broadcast)include the district website, district videos, podcasts, and interviews with local news media for broadcast such as TV or radio.

You have the right to request the withholding of any or all directory information. Please consider very carefully your decision to withhold any of the above information. This information is typically used in news stories about our students’ achievements and classroom activities, honor roll lists, the yearbook, and school directories and school/district newsletters. Should you deny permission for the release of information, any future requests for such information from news media and other individuals will be refused for the duration of the school year.

To request withholding of information, please notify your child’s school in writing within 14 days of the start of school or within 14 days of enrolling your students.

During a student’s career, the school system collects and records data concerning the student. The school system recognizes that the collection, maintenance, and limited dissemination of such data is essential in school operations, but also that preserving the rights of privacy of the student and parents/guardians, and the student’s or parent’s/guardian’s right to correct inaccurate data is equally essential.

In accordance with IC 20-33-7-3 (Senate Bill 204, 2001), a school corporation or other entity to which the education records privacy provisions of the federal Family Educational and Privacy Rights Act (20 U.S.C. 1232g) apply may disclose or report on the education records of a child, including personally identifiable information contained in the education records, without the consent of the child's parent, guardian, or custodian, under the following conditions:

1. The disclosure or reporting of education records is to a state or local juvenile justice agency.
2. The disclosure or reporting relates to the ability of the juvenile justice system to serve, before adjudication, the student whose records are being released.
3. The juvenile justice agency receiving the information certifies, in writing, to the entity providing the information that the agency or individual receiving the information has agreed not to disclose it to a third party, other than another juvenile justice agency, without the consent of the child's parent, guardian, or custodian.

For purposes of subsection two (2), a disclosure or reporting of education records concerning a child who has been adjudicated as a delinquent child shall be treated as related to the ability of the juvenile justice system to serve the child before adjudication if the juvenile justice agency seeking the information provides sufficient information to enable the keeper of the education records to determine that the juvenile justice agency seeks the information in order to identify and intervene with the child as a juvenile at risk of delinquency rather than to obtain information solely related to supervision of the child as an adjudicated delinquent child.

As referenced in Policy E175 and in The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), personally identifiable information about students is kept confidential. Parents and eligible students (a student who has reached 18 years of age) have the right to:

1. inspect and review the student’s education records at reasonable times within 45 days of the day a school receives a request to access records;
2. seek amendment of the student’s education records believed to be inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights;
3. provide written consent before the school discloses the student’s education records, except to the extent FERPA authorizes disclosures without consent; and
4. file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education, Family Policy Compliance Office, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington D.C> 20202, concerning alleged failures by the district to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

Certain persons may examine student records without a parent’s consent. These include school officials who have “legitimate educational interests.” A school official is a person employed by the school as an administrator, supervisor, instructor, or support staff member (including health or medical staff and law enforcement unit personnel) or a person serving on the school board. A school official also may include a volunteer or contractor outside of the school who performs an institutional service or function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of personally identifiable information from education records, such as a software or technology service provider, an attorney, auditor, medical consultant, or therapist; or a parent, student, or other volunteer assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.

A parent or eligible student may view his/her student’s records by making a request in writing to the building principal. Any request for amendment of education records by requesting an informal conference with the Superintendent or designee.

Special Education Services

WWS accommodates the unique needs of students in special education ages 3-22 years of age in the students least restrictive environment, which means inclusion in general education classrooms as frequently as possible (case conference committee determination). Teachers use a common framework for education, but regularly—and creatively—adapt their instruction to accommodate the needs of the individual student. WWS is a single district planning corporation as it relates to special education services.

Developmental Preschool Program (Child Find/Evaluation and Eligibility for special services): This program is for children ages 3-5 who qualify for special education services and is at Maple Glen Elementary School, Oak Trace Elementary School, Shamrock Springs Elementary School and Washington Woods Elementary School. Each student who qualifies is evaluated by our Early Childhood Assessment Tea (Child Find-Washington Woods Elementary School).

Westfield Washington Schools also offers Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Speech and Language Therapy to students that qualify under an area of eligibility listed within Indiana Article 7.
 

Westfield Washington Schools Board of School Trustees recognizes that the personal, social, physical, and educational growth of children will vary and that they should be placed in the educational setting most appropriate to meet their needs at the various stages of their growth.

Promotion or retention of students stems from the total development of the individual child related to the educational program. General overall scholastic achievement should have a primary influence in determining retention and/or promotion of the individual child.

Promotion of a student will occur based on the professional recommendations of the teaching/administrative staff. The student must also achieve the instructional objectives set for the present grade level.

A student identified as a student with special needs shall be promoted or retained based on the opinion/professional judgment of the case conference committee team and building administrator/principal.

A student identified whose primary language is not English shall be promoted or retained based on the professional opinion of the EL teacher, classroom teacher, and building administrator/principal.

If a child is being considered for retention, the following actions should occur:

• Parents of any child whose promotion is in jeopardy will be notified well in advance of any actual decision regarding the possibility of promotion/retention. Final determinations will be made before the end of the current school year.
• Parent teacher conferences must be held whenever retention of a child is being considered. Retention will not be finalized until the parent has had an opportunity to meet with the classroom teacher/school administrator. Completion of the Lights Retention Scale will be completed and shared at the parent teacher conference.
• The school principal has the legal responsibility for student classification and students may be reclassified when, in the professional judgment of the principal, it becomes necessary or advisable.
   

Westfield Washington Schools prepares all students for the day after graduation and emphasizes Life Readiness in order for all young people to be successful in our community. The student learning experience is shaped through cognitive and non-cognitive growth cultivated by opportunities provided by staff members on a daily basis at school. These opportunities will only be maximized through daily attendance. A student’s attendance is essential to learning -- learning that includes not only factual subject matter but also the skills needed for Life Readiness. Reading the material and performing satisfactorily on tests does not compensate for the loss of insight gained during guided instruction, class collaboration, or supervised work. Furthermore, every student contributes to one another; therefore, a student who is absent short-changes those who are not.

Westfield Washington Schools bases its attendance policy on state code and Indiana Department of Education guidance. Indiana State Code requires children to attend school during the time it is in session until the child graduates or becomes 18 years of age. The Board of School Trustees, as an agency of the State, is required to enforce regular attendance of students. Absence from school is defined as any non-presence (excused or unexcused) during part or all of a scheduled school day that is not canceled or altered due to weather or other emergency. 

Using both state code and IDOE guidance, Westfield Washington Schools establishes that all students must be in attendance for over 166 days of the 175 day school year, meaning that students should not miss more than 9 days in a year. The state of Indiana counts all absences alike, whether excused or unexcused. Not missing more than 9 days (whether excused or unexcused) ensures a student has an attendance percentage of 95% or higher; this percentage has been proven to maximize student learning. Westfield Washington Schools sees student attendance as the first and most important rule in creating the best learning experience for students. 

Any student who is absent for 10 full days or more, or for 10 individual class periods or more at the middle and high school level, puts their status as a student in good standing in jeopardy. As a result, the ability to participate in co-curricular or extracurricular events (including but not limited to clubs, athletics, performing arts, prom, et al.) may be revoked unless approved by an administrator. 

Reporting Absences

It is the responsibility of the child’s parent to notify the school office when a student is absent. Please phone the attendance line by 10:00 a.m. the day of the student’s absence. A parent may call the attendance line and leave a voicemail 24 hours a day. A parent may call in his/her native language. Please give your name, phone number, your child’s name, and the reason for the absence. Any absences not verified by a parent within 72 hours (3 days) may be deemed as truant, which will compromise the ability of the students to make up work for credit.  

Parents/Guardians are encouraged to provide a doctor’s excuse to the office for each absence that requires a visit to the doctor or other medical professional.

Per state code, attendance policies are determined locally. It is a local decision to excuse or not excuse an absence.

Types of Absences
Indiana State Code utilizes the terminology of Excused, Unexcused, and Truant for absences. As a result, Westfield Washington Schools utilizes the same terminology. Further explanation of these terms follows. Excused absences are verified by either a parent or a third party, such as a doctor and matching the board approved definition. Unexcused absences are unverified, or exceeding the allowed limit even if verified, or truancies. 
Excused Absences

A parent call-in is required to excuse an absence

1. Student illness (with accompanying medical note preferred; accompanying med note is required if a student reaches 7 or more of any type of absences)
2. Death/grave illness of an immediate family member
3. Exclusion because of exposure to contagious disease
4. Required religious observation
5. Medical, dental, or professional appointments. Please make every effort to schedule appointments outside of school hours.
6. Pre-arranged absences
   Pre-arranged absences include vacations (not exceeding 7 days), club sports athletic tournaments, external performing arts opportunities, extended medical absences, job interviews and internship interviews. Any possible external verification for these types of absences is encouraged. 
   1. Parents/guardians are expected to plan vacations/college visits around the school schedule as absences are a serious interruption to the learning process. 
   2. The parent/guardian must call the school attendance office at least two school days in advance of any pre-arranged absence. 
   3. Planned vacation days shall be taken with the parent/guardian of the student. 
   4. Class work shall be completed in advance of the pre-arranged absence or as teachers may determine. 
   5. The principal or assistant principal shall deny pre-arranged absence days to students having excessive absences or when vacation days will extend absences beyond the 7 day limit. 

Other Educational Activity

Other educational activity is defined as any other absence, approved by the building principal or assistant principal, resulting from an educational activity that is relevant to the child’s academic growth and equivalent to the child’s school activities/experiences. Such absence requires prior notification at least two school  days prior to the absence and proper verification. These types of absences will be coded uniquely, accounting for presence in class on those days and not accumulating towards the student’s absence total. The principal or assistant principal shall have discretion to rescind approval of the other educational activity status if the reporting is deemed insufficient, if the student already has excessive absences, or if the student is not in good academic standing. 

In accordance with IC 20-33-2-14, -15, -16, -17, students supplying the proper notification to the school office and participating in the following events are not counted absent:

1. Service as page or honoree of general assembly
2. Service to the election board or political candidate on Election Day. 
3. Witness in judicial proceeding or any required court appearance for which a student is subpoenaed. 
4. Duty with the Indiana National Guard (maximum 10 days)
5. Duty with the Indiana wing of civil air patrol
6. National Guard duty (maximum 10 days)
7. Participation in the state fair
8. A principal approved educationally sound activity. 

Parents/Guardians must notify the school with physician documentation when circumstances of prolonged student illness occur. This will assist the principal or assistant principal in employing this policy’s parent/guardian notice and intervention provisions.  

Unexcused Absences 

An unexcused absence is any absence not covered under either the definition of excused absence or listed as an exception to compulsory attendance.

The following are considered unexcused absences: 

1. Any absence in excess of 10 previously accrued that is not excused by state law or accompanied with medical verification, or previously approved by principal.
2. Any absence not recognized by state law or Westfield Washington Schools.
3. Students arriving to class 30 minutes late or more are considered absent for that class. This will be considered unexcused unless accompanied with the proper verification noted above.

Tardy To School

Tardiness is disruptive to the educational process and is considered to be a serious matter. WMS believes that timeliness is a life skill and students are responsible for their own tardiness to school. When students arrive at school after the 8:45 a.m. (except Wednesdays when students arrive after 9:15 a.m.) bell has rung, they should report directly to the office. Students are to sign in with the secretary in the main office. Parents/Guardians must notify the school office by note, phone call or in person when a student is tardy to school. Failure to inform the school office will result in the child’s arrival being counted as unexcused. A tardy will follow the same criteria listed under absences. Reasons such as, but not limited to, car trouble, traffic, oversleeping, missing the bus, school closing assumptions, or parent taking responsibility will result in an unexcused tardy to school. 

The consequences for the above named actions will be named at the discretion of building administration based on the consequences and interventions found on page —-.  

Tardy to Class
Tardiness is disruptive to the educational process and is considered to be a serious matter. WMS believes that timeliness is a life skill and students are responsible for their own tardiness.   Students who arrive after the bell should arrive with a pass.  Students who do not arrive with a pass will be marked as tardy. Tardies are indicated in powerschool and should be reviewed throughout the week.   Students who are tardy to class without a pass are subject to consequences.   The consequences for the above named actions will be named at the discretion of building administration based on the consequences and interventions found on page —-.
Truant
Truancy is defined as an absence from school without the knowledge or consent of the parent/guardian and the school, or absent from school when there is an attempt to evade the Indiana Compulsory Attendance Law. The following circumstances are considered truancy: 

1. The willful non-attendance by a student not to attend school. This act of non-compliance is not authorized an/or known by the parent/guardian
2. A student does not report for an assigned class during the course of the school day. 
3. A student leaving the building and/or school grounds during the day without permission. 
4. A student misrepresents a pass and does not report to a designated location during the day. An example would be reporting 20 plus minutes late for a class or wandering in the school to a designated location. 
5. Late arrival to school may be considered an instance of truancy. 
6. Students will be considered a “habitual truant if they are truant from school more than ten (10) days in the school year.

Codes to Know and Other Key Definitions

WWS Attendance Codes	What it Means
IAS	In Attendance (present and on time)
IND	Other Educational Activity (not in class, but counted as presence code)
X	Excused (Parent Verification matching Excused Absence Criteria)
M	Medically Excused (written verification from MD, DO, NP)
ILL	Illness (Parent Verification)
RE	Religious Observation
CT	Court Appearance
DF	Death in Family/Funeral
NS	Nurse Excused
A	Absent – No verification/call-in
UNX	Unexcused – Verified by parent
R	Truant

 

Key Definitions: 

Full Day Presence: A student who attends four periods or more is considered present for the entire school day at Westfield Middle School (Single period absences may still be enforced with school discipline). It is the school’s goal to maximize full day presence.

Half Day Presence: A student who attends three periods in a school day is considered present for 50% of the day at Westfield Middle School. If a student must miss school, it is valuable that they still attend as much as possible on such a day. 

Absence: A student who attends zero or only one period in a school day is considered absent for the day at Westfield Middle School. 

Habitual Truant: Habitual truant" refers to a student who has been absent ten (10) days or more from school within a school year without being excused or without being absent under a parental request that has been filed with the school. (Indiana Code 20-18-2-6.5)

Chronic Absentee: The term Chronic Absentee refers to a student who has been absent 10% or more of the school days during the scholastic year (Indiana Department of Education)

In grades 5-12, students who are absent from school for more than three periods may not attend or participate in any extracurricular activities on the day of absence without administrative approval.

Westfield Washington Schools Truancy Prevention Policy

Effective July 1, 2024, Indiana Code 20-33-2.5 establishes that each school corporation shall adopt a truancy prevention policy. Westfield Washington Schools champions student learning and preparation for Life after Graduation; as a result, every school will fulfill this plan as appropriate for grade level. Beyond state expectations, Westfield Washington Schools is committed to an informative and educational policy regarding student attendance. As a result, we incorporate three tiers to our system in order to best reach all families. 

Tier 1: Every school will send all families returning to a district school a written attendance update at the end of each school’s term (trimester or quarter). These will be sent to emails on file. Transparency will be on display, with regular schoolwide data updates about attendance performance targets in principal newsletters. 

Tier 2:  Students who have missed five total days or more during the school term will be informed in writing. As this is cumulative throughout the year and not within one single grading period, this may not require further action unless otherwise indicated. 

Tier 3: 

• Westfield Washington Schools will initiate truancy prevention for any absent student who is absent 5 days (unexcused and/or unverified) within a trimester or quarter, depending on school. Westfield Washington Schools may also initiate truancy prevention for a student who has had 7 or more called-in absences, even if they are considered excused. 
  • Students who are absent in conformity with a medical letter of incapacity to attend signed by a doctor, therapist, or other medical professional may be exempt from this. 
• Upon the fifth unexcused absence, the process will be initiated with a written notification sent either virtually or on paper to the parents of the student, informing the parent of the student’s attendance record and reminding the parent of responsibility to monitor the student’s attendance and ensure the student attends school in accordance with compulsory attendance laws. This letter will invite response for a required in-person attendance conference  to discuss an action plan of improvement. This letter will also include verbiage on the definition and action steps that must legally be taken if the student is considered a habitual truant, which includes reporting the student to an intake officer of the juvenile court or the department of child services in accordance with IC 20-33-2-25, and subsequent actions that may be taken by those entities upon referral by the school district. 
• The attendance conference will be held within five (5) school days of notification. The following individuals will be present in the conference: 
  • A representative of the school (principal, assistant principal, dean, and/or counselor)
  • A teacher of the student (Grades K-6 only)
  • The student’s parent(s)/guardian(s)
    • The school will permit the student’s parent(s)/guardian(s) to elect to bring a representative who may provide insight into the student’s absenteeism if the student’s parent fulfills the following: 
    • Makes request to the school that the representative attend; and
    • Provides notice tt the school regarding the identification of the representative; 
    • at least forty-eight (48) hours before the attendance conference.
• During the meeting, an attendance contract will be developed; contract will be in effect for forty-five (45) days. Attendance contract may include expectations accompanied with extra supports and/or accountability measures. 
• At the secondary level, this may take place for students who have accrued five unexcused absences to a single class period.

Make-Up Work
Classwork and assignments are essential to the learning process. All work missed due to absence (excused, unexcused, or truancy) is expected to be completed. A student shall have one day to make up work for each day of absence. This guideline may be altered at the discretion of the principal and the teacher if it is determined that it is unreasonable for the student to complete all missing work within the allotted time. This guideline may also be altered for unexcused prearranged absences, such as vacations, in order for the learning process to remain as uninterrupted as possible. Students should utilize Canvas first to see the work they missed while they are out, completing what is possible to be completed if physically able. Lengthy absences may require that the teacher provide schoolwork alternatives and timeframes for completion. In such cases, the teacher will notify the student and the principal. Teachers will strive to ensure the alternative assignments assist the student in achieving course learning targets and set a reasonable timeframe for the completion of the work.

Curricular, Co-Curricular and Extracurricular Incentives for Attending

Students in regular attendance are considered students in good standing. A student must attend four class periods on the day of a co-curricular or extracurricular activity on the day of the activity in order to be able to participate. If the event takes place on Saturday, the student must fulfill this obligation on Friday. Administrative approval is required for any exceptions.These events include but are not limited to athletic contests, musical and theatrical performances, academic team competitions, prom,  et al.

A student who has accrued five or more absences in any given quarter or ten or more absences for the current school year (excused or unexcused) may be withheld by administration from participating in field trips.  

A student who has accrued five or more absences in any given quarter or ten or more absences for the current year may be withheld from participation in school organizations, including but not limited to athletic teams, musical and theatrical co-/extracurricular organizations, et al.

Tardies are considered a form of absence. A student who has accrued excessive tardies may be withheld from participating in field trips as well as co-/extracurricular activities and organizations.

Disciplinary Action 

Westfield Washington Schools may utilize school discipline for any unexcused absence, truancy, or absence exceeding 7 in the school year unless deemed excused by administration. 

1. Disciplinary Action for Truancy

 

The result of the first truancy/unexcused absence will be: 

1. Detentions twice the number of hours missed, or

2. Saturday School if a total of four hours of detention is to be served. 

 

The result of a second truancy will be: 

1. Saturday School

 

Subsequent truancies/unexcused absences will result in one or more of the following: 

1. Loss of ability to participate in co-curricular and/or extracurricular activities/organizations; loss of ability to participate in field trips. 

2. Loss of driving privileges for students who are drivers

3. Referral to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles of invalidation of driver’s license

4. Placement on an attendance contract

5. Referral to Hamilton County ACES

6. Referral to DCS

7. Filing of truancy with the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office

8. Suspension and/or expulsion

 

      B.  Actions for Absences Exceeding 10 in the School Year

 

Excessive absences can merit both school discipline as well as extra support. Any of the following disciplinary steps may occur:

 

1. Loss of ability to participate in co-curricular and/or extracurricular activities/organizations; loss of ability to participate in field trips. 

2. After-school detention to make up missed time 

3. Saturday School for more built in study time

4. Attendance Contract

5. Requirement for parent/guardian to produce a certificate of incapacity not later than six (6) days after the certificate is demanded.

6. Loss of driving privileges for students who are drivers

7. Referral to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles of invalidation of driver’s license

8. Requirement for medical notes upon future absences. 

9. Wellness check through WPD

10. Referral to DCS

11. Referral to Hamilton County ACES

12. Filing of truancy with the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s office.

13. Suspension and/or expulsion

Westfield Washington Schools Attendance Procedures/Hamilton County Schools Attendance Program Project ACES – Attending Class Equals Success

Westfield Washington Schools participates in the Hamilton County Schools Project ACES Attendance Program in collaboration with the Hamilton County Juvenile Prosecutor’s Office. Project ACES tracks the total number of excused/unexcused absences to school accumulated for the entire school year. The goal of Project ACES is to ensure that every child attends school as required by Indiana Law so that each child will receive the necessary guidance and knowledge to become a productive member of the community. Absences to school are cumulative throughout the school year and do not reset at any point during the school year for grades K-12.

Project ACES is a collaboration between the school, parent, student, Westfield Youth Assistance Program, and the Hamilton County Prosecutor’s Office. In working together and through early intervention, we believe that attending class will equal success for each and every student.
Legal Loss of Driving Privileges
Additional  information about the legal loss of driving privileges can be found in the Westfield High School handbook. 
 

The following are in addition to the policies of Westfield Washington Schools and are specific to Westfield Middle School.

Expectations

Students at Westfield Middle School are expected to act in such a manner as to maintain the high expectations held for their behavior by the community. Student supervision is the responsibility of the staff, students, and parents/guardians subject to IC 20-33-8 and the guidelines presented therein. The goal of student discipline at Westfield Middle School will be to:

1. aid students in the development of self-discipline through their understanding of the expectations held by the school for their behavior;
2. teach students that inappropriate behavior has consequences;
3. foster an atmosphere of consideration and respect for other people and property; and
4. create an atmosphere in which learning can occur.

Behavioral Expectations

These expectations apply when students are the responsibility of the school and are coming to school, at school, going home from school, staying after school, or participating in or attending a school activity. As a general rule, students will be expected to have proper materials and to conduct themselves in a manner that demonstrates respect for themselves, for others, for the staff, and for school and private property. Students whose behavior does not meet these expectations may be subject to disciplinary actions, which include detention, Thursday School, Suspension or Expulsion.

The determination of disciplinary action will be made following an examination of the offense, its circumstances, and the guidelines established in IC 20-33-8. Specific expectations for behavior include, but are not limited to:

 

Cheating and Plagiarism

Because plagiarism is intellectually dishonest and, therefore, a form of stealing, it is an extremely serious offense and can result in severe penalties, even no credit for the course being taken. The following forms of plagiarism are the most frequent and are a misrepresentation of one’s own work.

1. Failure to document with quotation marks any material copied directly from other sources.
2. Failure to acknowledge the paraphrased material (someone else’s ideas).
3. Failure to provide a bibliography.
4. Use of others' work as one’s own, particularly in the creative arts.
5. Use of others' ideas as one’s own for themes, poems, musical compositions or artwork.
6. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI)Tools (e.g. ChatGPT).

Cheating, including, but not limited to plagiarism, use of notes without permission, copying from another student or sharing work for the purpose of copying, accessing a device or unauthorized website during a test session, or other forms of such dishonest behavior will be considered a serious violation of acceptable and trustworthy behavior for Westfield Middle School students. Students are expected to perform all tests, projects, and assignments in an honest manner. If concrete evidence is found that cheating has occurred:

1st offense: teacher will contact parents/guardians by phone or TalkingPoints message and a warning will be given to review expectations. Students will be allowed to redo the assignment/assessment for full credit during assigned detention. 

Further offenses: will result in a parent meeting with teacher and administrator. Consequences will be reviewed during the meeting and could include but are not limited to a 50% or reduced credit on the assignment/ assessment will be put in the gradebook until a parent meeting can be scheduled. Consequences could include but are not limited to, redoing or alternate assignment, lunch detention, Thursday school or in school suspension, cheating or plagiarism learning module in Canvas.
 

Respect/Profanity

Proper respect and consideration should be extended to all Westfield Middle School staff and students. Disrespect or insubordination toward the staff will not be tolerated. Profanity, obscenity, or unacceptable language of any kind will not be permitted (including curse words, hurtful words towards others, conversations about illegal substances/topics inappropriate for school). Consequences will be determined based on the severity of the language and topic of conversation.

 

Forgery

Forgery including, but not limited to notes, passes, or excuses is not acceptable. The consequences for the above named actions will be named at the discretion of building administrations based on the consequences and interventions found on page

Fire Alarm/False Reports

Pulling a fire alarm unnecessarily is a Class B misdemeanor according to IC 35-44-22-B. This includes dialing 911 emergency numbers unnecessarily. Violation will result in the student being assigned a suspension plus a report to local authorities. The consequences for the above named actions will be named at the discretion of building administrations based on the consequences and interventions found on page

Altercation (Verbal or Physical)

Striking other people carries the risk of injury to one or both parties. Therefore, fighting and/or assault are prohibited while students are under school jurisdiction. Violation will result in the student being assigned suspension plus a report to local authorities. The consequences for the above named actions will be named at the discretion of building administrations based on the consequences and interventions found on page

Public Displays of Affection and Romantic Relationships

Engaging in any kind of improper touching, PDA (Public Display of Affection, hugging, improper bodily contact, sexual gestures, either verbal or nonverbal), will result in in consequences for the above named actions will be named at the discretion of building administrations based on the consequences and interventions found on page

Indecent Exposure

Causing or attempting to cause indecent exposure or taking indecent liberties is not acceptable. The consequences for the above named actions will be named at the discretion of building administrations based on the consequences and interventions found on page

Vandalism

Vandalism, defacing, or theft of personal property will not be tolerated. Care of the school building and its contents is expected of all students. Vandalism, misuse, defacing or theft of school property will not be tolerated. The consequences for the above named actions will be named at the discretion of building administrations based on the consequences and interventions found on page

Harassment/Bullying/Threats/Hazing

Harassment, bullying, or threats directed towards any students or staff will result in the student being disciplined using the school Anti-Bullying Rules on page 36. Severity of consequences may be altered at the discretion of school administration due to the nature and level of the incident.

Explosive Devices

Explosive devices such as, but not limited to, lighters, matches, or anything that could be used to start a fire, are not allowed on school property or at any school function. The consequences for the above named actions will be named at the discretion of building administrations based on the consequences and interventions found on page

Knife/Firearms

Possessing, handling, or transmitting a knife, firearm, or any other object as described in the Grounds for Suspension or Expulsion District Policy, as well as setting off explosive devices such as, but not limited to, firecrackers, bullets, and smoke bombs will result in disciplinary actions and due process as outlined in the WWS District Policy in this handbook.

Technology Misuse

Any damage to, interference with, and/or unauthorized use of computers, software, technology or any related equipment consequences based on the extent of the damages.  The consequences for the above named actions will be named at the discretion of building administrations based on the consequences and interventions found on page 

Use of Unauthorized Substances 

Possessing, using, transmitting, or being under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, spice, alcoholic beverages, or intoxicant of any kind will result in a move for expulsion. Use of drug(s) authorized by a medical prescription from a physician for the person in possession of the drug is not a violation of this rule.

1. Possessing, using, transmitting, or being under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, spice, alcoholic beverages, or intoxicant of any kind will result in a move for expulsion. 
2. Engaging in the unlawful selling or supplying of a controlled substance is a criminal law violation that constitutes a danger to other students or constitutes an interference with school purposes or an educational function will result in a move for expulsion.
3. Possession of, use, or transmitting drug paraphernalia will result in a move for expulsion.

1st Offense: Suspension, 10 days with expulsion recommendation, drug/alcohol screen and charged for cost of drug/alcohol screen

The consequences for the above named actions will be named at the discretion of building administrations based on the consequences and interventions found on page
 

Discipline Procedures

Assertive Discipline Procedure

Classroom teachers will have established rules for their individual classes along with consequences for breaking those rules. Every teacher will make a variety of attempts to deal with problems in the classroom, which will include a student conference and at least two parent/guardian contacts by phone, email, or letter. Documentation should show verifying attempts to deal with classroom problems, which may include a student conference, parent/guardian contact by phone and a parent/guardian conference, and must accompany a student sent to the office for administrative action. Problems that call for immediate administrative action are to be documented and sent with the student to the office.

Detentions will be assigned by teachers to be served under supervision on any school day. Teachers also have, but are not limited to, the option of removing a student for one day from their class in an appropriate time-out area. The classroom teacher will make contact with the parent/guardian when removal has occurred.  If there are continued offenses, administration may use the following options:

1. Conference with guidance or administration.
2. Thursday School
3. In-School Suspension
4. A One-day Suspension
5. A Three-day Suspension
6. A Five-day Suspension, or a written contract
7. A move for expulsion

For minor offenses, steps two through seven will be followed in this order with step number one being used when feasible. For more serious offenses, whose minimum consequences are pre-established, the more serious consequences will be administered. Detention, special work details, or assignments will be used if feasible and if appropriate to the infraction. A student will receive one of these consequences once for behavior problems. The administration, however, reserves the right to deal with each student as an individual in order to attempt to bring about a change in behavior, especially when parents/guardians or counseling are involved.

In the interest of maintaining an appropriate educational environment as well as student health and safety, and the health and safety of school personnel, the administration reserves the right to conduct searches of school property based upon reasonable suspicion. The nature and manner in which the search is conducted shall be controlled by the circumstances of each particular situation.

Detention Procedures

Purpose of Detention

Detention is a discipline situation assigned because the student has failed to abide by the rules and regulations established by the classroom teacher and/or the administration.

Teacher-Supervised Detentions

Detentions will be assigned by individual teachers to be served under their supervision on any school day with a one-day notice to the student. Failure to attend a teacher-supervised detention will result in the student having to make-up the detention plus having an additional detention assigned by the teacher. The second missed detention will be handled by the administration.

Detention Rules

1. Detention will be held on any school day. Parents/Guardians are responsible for bringing or picking up the student if he/she needs transportation.
2. Students are to report to the detention area in a timely fashion.
3. Students are to remain in their seats (or are to be involved in the teacher assigned task) for the entire detention period.
4. Students are to bring appropriate materials (pen, pencil, books, and assignments).
5. Students are to be working on assignments for the entire detention period.
6. No talking will be allowed unless initiated by the supervisor.
7. Entertaining and/or electronic devices are not allowed. The school is not responsible for any electronic devices reported damaged, lost or stolen while on school property or at school events.
8. Detention assignment packets, if available, are to be satisfactorily completed and turned in to the teacher at the end of the detention period.
9. Students are required to attend the detention time they are assigned. 
10. Any conflicts with assigned detention time must be discussed with the teacher who assigned the detention prior to seventh period on the day assigned. Failure to attend the assigned detention will result in having to make-up the missed detention plus the following:
    1st offense: Assigned a second detention.
    2nd offense and up: To be handled by the administration.
11. Any behavior problems or violation of detention rules will result in further disciplinary action.

In-School Suspension

Purpose of In-School Suspension

In-School Suspension is a discipline situation assigned because the student has failed to abide by the rules and regulations established by the classroom teacher and/or the administration.

In-School Suspension Rules

1. The student is responsible for completing all assignments that are given during the In-School Suspension period.
2. The student is to be alert and working at all times.
3. The student is permitted to talk only if permission has been given.
4. The student will have his/her lunch and eat in the In-School Suspension area. If a student fails to bring a lunch, they will be offered the opportunity to purchase  a regular lunch.
5. The student will not eat, drink, (except for lunch) or chew gum in the In-School Suspension area.
6. The student will sit in the seat assigned by the supervisor.
7. The student will not read or write personal material without the permission of the supervisor.
8. The student will remain in the room at all times unless designated otherwise by the supervisor.
9. The student is expected to be on time. Tardies will not be tolerated.
10. Writing or defacing any school property or equipment will not be tolerated.
11. Entertaining and/or electronic devices are not allowed. The student is responsible for cleaning the area to which he/she was assigned at the end of the day.
12. The student is expected to bring study materials to the area and have enough constructive work to do to cover the time of assignment.  Students may contact teachers via Canvas if needed.  Students may be assigned additional work from administration.
13. The student is excluded from all special programs and convocations until the period of assignment has lapsed. This suspension includes all extracurricular activities and school sponsored activities including athletic events.
14. Any behavior problems or violation of In-School Suspension rules will result in further disciplinary action.

Social Probation

Students who have habitually been involved in infractions of school rules or academic non-compliance may be placed on Social Probation by school administrators, in addition to, or in lieu of, other disciplinary action. The academic team may be involved if behavior is related to problems in the classroom. Social Probation will be for a definite time period during which critical examination and evaluation of the student’s progress will take place. During the probation period, the student may be denied the privilege of participating in or attendance of all extracurricular activities (including field trips). If the student is further involved in an infraction of school rules during the probationary period, he/she will be subject to whatever disciplinary action is set forth in the probationary agreement. The parent/guardian will be notified that the student is being placed on Social Probation, including the length of the period, the terms of the probation, and the possible consequences of suspension/expulsion if the student is found in further violation of school rules during probation.

Thursday School Procedures

Purpose of Thursday School

Thursday School is a discipline situation assigned because the student has failed to abide by the rules and regulations established by the classroom teacher and/or the administration. Thursday school is in session every other Thursday from 3:40 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Thursday School Rules

1. A designated room at one of the schools will be used.
2. Students are to report by 3:40 p.m. with all class textbooks and study materials (paper, pens, and pencils) to the designated room and are expected to have enough constructive work to do to cover the time of assignment. The supervisor will assign seats upon entrance to the room. Students will not leave seats without permission from the supervisor.
3. Students are permitted to speak only after permission has been given. There is absolutely no talking unless initiated by the supervisor.
4. Students are to be awake, alert, and working on assignments at all times.
5. There will be no eating, drinking, chewing gum, etc.
6. Assignments for the supervision period will be completed by the end of the suspension period or credit will be withheld accordingly.
7. There will be no reading of private material without permission of the supervisor.
8. Tardies will not be tolerated.
9. Restroom privileges will be given by the supervisor.
10. Entertaining and/or electronic devices such as, but not limited to: laser pointers, headphones, radios, TVs, video games, cell phone, PDA’s, are not allowed. The school is not responsible for any electronic devices reported damaged, lost or stolen while on school property or at school events.
11. Any behavior problems or violation of Thursday School rules will result in further disciplinary action.
12. If an emergency arises and the student cannot attend Thursday School, you must notify the Assistant Principal by 9:00 a.m. on the assigned school day. Failure to attend the assigned Thursday School will result in having to make-up the missed Thursday School plus the following:

• 1st offense:    Assigned a second Thursday School
• 2nd offense:     One (1) day In-School Suspension
• 3rd offense:    Three (3) days In-School Suspension
• 4th offense:    Out-of-School Suspension

WWS Behavior and Disciplinary Policy (Policy C375)

As referenced in Policy C375, it is the policy of Westfield Washington Schools to balance the rights of student expression with that of all members of the school community, with the interests of an orderly and efficient educational process, and with the needs of a school environment suitable for the healthy growth and development of all students.

Students are expected to demonstrate proper behavior as defined in student handbooks and are subject to disciplinary action when the rules are not followed. Students do have the full protection of due process including the appeal of any decision dealing with disciplinary action.

It is the intent of the administration and teachers of Westfield Washington Schools to follow the discipline procedures as outlined in the student handbook. In addition to the actions specifically provided in the student handbook, the superintendent, principals, any administrative personnel, or any teacher of the school corporation shall be authorized to take any action in connection with student behavior which is reasonable, desirable, or necessary to help any student to further school purposes, or to prevent an interference therewith; such action, including but not limited to, such matters as:

1. counseling with a student or group of students;
2. conference with a parent/guardian or group of parents/guardians;
3. assigning student additional work;
4. rearranging class schedules;
5. requiring a student to remain in school after regular hours to do additional schoolwork or for counseling; or
6. restricting extracurricular activities.

Anti-Bullying (Policy C200)

Bullying is prohibited by Westfield Washington Schools. Students who commit any acts of bullying are subject to discipline including but not limited to suspension, expulsion, arrest, and/or prosecution.

Definition: “Bullying” is defined as overt, unwanted, repeated acts or gestures, including verbal or written communications or images transmitted in any manner (including digitally or electronically); physical acts committed; aggression; or any other behaviors committed by a student or group of students against another student with the intent to harass, ridicule, humiliate, intimidate, or harm the targeted student, creating for the targeted student an objectively hostile school environment that:

1. places the targeted student in reasonable fear of harm to his or her person or property;
2. has a substantially detrimental effect on the targeted student’s physical or mental health;
3. has the effect of substantially interfering with the targeted student’s academic performance; or
4. has the effect of substantially interfering with the targeted student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by the school.

Applicability: Westfield Washington Schools prohibits bullying in all forms. This policy may be applied regardless of the physical location in which the bullying behavior occurred, whenever the individual committing the bullying behavior and any of the intended targets of the bullying behavior are students attending a school within Westfield Washington Schools and disciplinary action is reasonably necessary to avoid substantial interference with school discipline or prevent an unreasonable threat to the rights of others to a safe and peaceful learning environment. Westfield Washington Schools prohibits bullying through the use of data or computer software that is accessed through any computer, computer system, or computer network.

Education: Westfield Washington Schools will provide training and/or instruction on bullying prevention and policy to all students in grades 1-12, as well as staff, in accordance with Indiana law.

Reporting: In an effort to maintain an orderly and safe environment, students and parents/guardians can report incidents to the anonymous reporting platform located on the district website homepage.

The entire School Board policy (C200) can be found on the district’s BoardDocs website, https://go.boarddocs.com/in/wws/Board.nsf/Public.

Anti-Bullying Description

1. We will not bully others.
2. We will help students who are bullied.
3. We will include students who are being left out.
4. If we know that somebody is being bullied, we will immediately tell an adult.

Disciplinary actions for a student found to have engaged in bullying behavior will be handled in the following manner:

1st and 2nd offense: Warning Conference with School Staff
3rd offense: Guidance Counselor Intervention
4th offense: Referral to the Assistant Principal
Continued offenses: Referral to the Assistant Principal and possible suspension

Severity of consequences may be altered at the discretion of school administration due to the nature and level of bullying.

Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) (Policy A300)

1. WWS recognizes its responsibility to educate students regarding appropriate behavior when using the Internet. Therefore, students shall be provided instruction about appropriate online behavior, including interacting with other individuals on social networking sites, user forums, chat sites, and about cyberbullying awareness and response.
2. The Superintendent or designee shall provide age-appropriate instruction regarding safe and appropriate behavior on social networking sites, user forums, chat sites, and other internet services. Such instruction shall include, but not be limited to, the dangers of posting personal information online, misrepresentation by online predators, how to report inappropriate or offensive content or threats, behaviors that constitute cyberbullying, and how to respond when subjected to cyberbullying.

Criminal Organizations (Policy 10000-52)

Criminal organizations are prohibited by Westfield Washington Schools.  Students who commit any acts of criminal organization and criminal organization activity, or reprisal, or retaliation against an individual who reports suspected criminal organization activity are subject to discipline.

Definition: “Criminal Organization” means a group with at least three (3) members that specifically: (1) Promotes, sponsors, or assists in; or participates in; (2) Requires as a condition of membership or continued membership; or (3) Has as one of its goals; The commission of a felony or an act that would be a felony if committed by an adult or the offense of battery.

Definition: “Criminal Organization Activity” means knowing or intentional participation in a criminal organization, or knowing or intentional solicitation, recruitment, enticement, or intimidation of another individual to join a criminal organization.

Applicability: The Board of School Trustees of Westfield Washington Schools prohibits criminal organization activity and similar destructive or illegal group behavior on school property, on school buses, and/or at school-sponsored functions and prohibits reprisal or retaliation against individuals who report criminal organization activity and similar destructive or illegal group behavior or who are victims, witnesses, bystanders, or other people with reliable information about an act of criminal organization activity and similar destructive or illegal group behavior.

Education: Westfield Washington Schools will provide training and/or instruction on criminal organization activity and policy to all students in grades 1-12, as well as staff, in accordance with Indiana law.

Reporting: In an effort to maintain an orderly and safe environment, students and parents/guardians can report incidents to the anonymous reporting platform site located on the district website homepage.

The entire School Board policy (10000-52) can be found on the district website, www.wws.k12.in.us, under School Board/Policy Information.

Drug/Alcohol Policy (C450)

As referenced in Policy C450, students who are in possession of drugs and/or paraphernalia and/or who have items that a reasonable person could judge to be used in the sale of drugs or paraphernalia or who exhibit behavior which lead school authorities to have reasonable suspicion to suspect the student is under the influence of a controlled substance will be subject to the drug/discipline policy and will be dealt with accordingly. Furthermore, the school may subject items in said student’s possession to a test to determine if those items contain drugs or alcohol.

The school administration may also require a drug/alcohol screen to be immediately administered at the school corporation’s expense. If the test is positive, all future drug tests will be done at the parent’s/guardian’s or student’s expense. Factors which the administration will consider may include, but are not limited to:

1. Odor of alcohol/marijuana/smoke;
2. Glassy, dilated, bloodshot eyes, or dark circles under eyes;
3. Appears dazed, giddy;
4. Staggering walk;
5. Slurred or rapid speech;
6. Incoherent thought processes;
7. Disruptive, aggressive, physically threatening, out of control, or unusual behavior;
8. Bragging or talking to other students about alcohol or drug use;
9. Noticeable withdrawal from favorite activities and friends;
10. Physical indicators from an objective assessment by the school nurse or;
11. Possession of, use, or transporting drug paraphernalia or items used to weigh or sell drugs or drug paraphernalia.

Refusal to submit to a drug test will be considered an admission of being under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. This is a violation of school rules and will be dealt with according to the student discipline policy. The administration will make a reasonable attempt to apprise the parent(s)/guardian(s) of the situation.

In addition, in an effort to promote a drug-free campus and to protect the safety and health of the school’s faculty, staff and students, Westfield Middle School periodically requests the Westfield Police Department to conduct random searches of student lockers. This is done through a modified internal lockdown while students are safely in class. The School Board authorizes the use of specially-trained dogs to locate and detect the presence of weapons and prohibited drugs on school property as directed by the administration. Westfield Middle School treats this type of search as a community partnership with Hamilton County and Westfield law enforcement. Canine searches are treated as a safety drill and there will not be any prior or concluding communication with students, staff, or parents about the drill. This is done to protect the safety of students, staff, law enforcement officials, and canine law enforcement animals.

If a canine indicates a locker, the school administration may conduct searches of individuals on the basis of ‘reasonable suspicion’. Administration will meet with the implicated student to more fully investigate the situation. This may include, but is not limited to, a more thorough search of the student’s person or belongings, a nurse evaluation of substance-induced symptoms present, and a drug screen. Parents will be notified in a timely manner regarding the investigation. Any search conducted by the administration shall be conducted in accordance with School Board policy, this Student Handbook, and applicable law.

Possession or consumption/use of, or sale or supplying of, alcohol or drugs by a student is an expellable offense.

Firearms, Weapons, and Destructive Devices (Policy A200)

Policy:
No student shall possess, handle or transmit any firearm, deadly weapon or destructive device on school property, on a school bus, or WWS events even if held outside school property.

No student shall possess any object which is either intended, or may in fact be used as, or looks like a weapon or other instrumentality which could cause harm to any other person on school property, on a school bus, or WWS events even if held outside school property. Such objects include, but are not necessarily limited to, knives, batons, night sticks, brass knuckles, bombs, fireworks, electronic stun weapons, tasers, stun guns, or chemicals.

Anyone who has reason to believe that any individual is violating the law or this policy shall immediately report the alleged violation to an administrator or law enforcement officer.

Definitions:
“Firearm” is any weapon that is capable of expelling, designed to expel, or may readily be converted to expel, a projectile by means of explosion.

“Ammunition” means fixed cartridge ammunition; shotgun shells; the individual components of fixed cartridge ammunition and shotgun shells; projectiles for muzzle loading firearms; and any propellant used in a firearm or in firearm ammunition.

“Knife” is an instrument that consists of a sharp edged or sharp pointed blade capable of inflicting cutting, stabbing, or tearing wounds; and is intended to be used as a weapon. The term includes a dagger, dirk, poniard, stiletto, switchblade knife, or gravity knife.

In addition to being subjected to criminal charges, any student who violates this policy shall be subject to expulsion or suspension.

Due Process

It is important that students be aware of their legal rights and responsibilities. The Student Due Process Code (IC 20-33-8), enacted and amended by the General Assembly of Indiana, outlines in detail the procedures to be followed when either suspension or expulsion is utilized as a disciplinary measure. Once due process is initiated, a student will not be permitted to withdraw from school to avoid disciplinary action except in Policy C375 Suspension and Expulsion of Students. Due process procedures begin at the time a student is questioned in relation to an incident.

In August 2006 the School Board instituted a practice not to hear student due process appeals for expulsion.

Legal Settlement (IC 20-33-8-17) (Policy C125)

A student may be expelled from school if the student’s legal settlement is not in the attendance area of the school corporation where the student is enrolled. Expulsion will not be undertaken if the student voluntarily is withdrawn by the parents/guardians within five calendar days of discovery.

Grounds for Suspension or Expulsion

Grounds for suspension or expulsion are student misconduct and/or substantial disobedience. Examples of student misconduct and/or substantial disobedience for which a student may be suspended or expelled include, but are not limited to:

1.  Using violence, force, noise, coercion, threat, intimidation, fear, passive resistance, or other comparable conduct constituting an interference with school purposes, or urging other students to engage in such conduct. The following enumeration is only illustrative and not limited to the type of conduct prohibited by this rule:

a.  Occupying any school building, school grounds, or part thereof with intent to deprive others of its use.
b.  Blocking the entrance or exits of any school building or corridor or room therein with intent to deprive others of lawful access to or from, or use of the building, corridor, or room.
c.  Setting fire to or substantially damaging any school building or property or lighting a fire on school property.
d.  Possession of matches, lighter, or anything that could be used to start a fire.
e.  Prevention of or attempting to prevent by physical acts the convening or continued function of any school or education function, or of any meeting or assembly on school property.
f.  Continuously and intentionally making noise or acting in any manner so as to interfere seriously with the ability of any teacher or any of the other school personnel to conduct the education function under their supervision.

2.  Causing or attempting to cause damage to school property, stealing or attempting to steal school property.
3.  Causing or attempting to cause damage to private property, stealing or attempting to steal private property.
4.  Intentionally causing or attempting to cause physical injury or intentionally behaving in such a way as could reasonably cause physical injury to any person. Self-defense or reasonable action undertaken on the reasonable belief that it was necessary to protect oneself or some other person does not, however, constitute a violation of this rule.
5.  Threatening or intimidating any student for any purpose including obtaining money or anything of value from the student or hazing of other students.
6.  Possessing, handling, or transmitting a knife or any object that can reasonably be considered a weapon, or represented to be a weapon. A weapon is defined as any object, mechanism or air gun that could be used to inflict physical harm to another person. This is punishable by up to one-year expulsion.
7.  Possessing, using, transmitting, or being under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, spice, alcoholic beverages, tobacco products including electronic cigarettes or vaporizers, or intoxicants of any kind. Use of drug(s) authorized by a medical prescription from a physician for the person in possession of the drug is not a violation of this rule.
8.  Engaging in the unlawful selling or supplying of a controlled substance or engaging in a criminal law violation that constitutes a danger to other students or constitutes an interference with school purposes or an educational function.
9.  Possession of, use, or transmitting drug paraphernalia.
10.  Failing in a substantial number of instances to comply with directions of teachers or other school personnel during any period of time when the student is properly under their supervision, where the failure constitutes an interference with school purposes or an educational function.
11.  Engaging in any activity forbidden by the laws of Indiana that constitutes an interference with school purposes or an educational function.
12.  Violating or repeatedly violating any rules that are reasonably necessary in carrying out school purposes or an educational function and are established in accordance with Indiana law, including, but not limited to:

a.  engaging in sexual behavior on school property;
b.  disobedience of administrative authority;
c.  willful absence or tardiness of students;
d.  possessing, using, or transmitting any substance which is represented to be or looks like a narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine,   barbiturate, marijuana, spice, alcoholic beverage, stimulant, depressant, or intoxicant of any kind;
e.  possessing, using, transmitting or being under the influence of caffeine-based substances, substances containing phenylpropanolamine (PPA), or stimulants of any kind, be they available with or without a prescription;
f.  engaging in speech or conduct, including clothing, jewelry, or hairstyle, which is profane, indecent, lewd, vulgar, or offensive to school purposes or that, advocates any illegal activity.

13.  Using school or personal electronic devices in an inappropriate manner, this includes, but is not limited to, utilizing them for cheating purposes or for the purpose of harassing, bullying or bringing harm to others.
14.  Possessing a firearm.

a.  No student shall possess, handle, or transmit any firearm, deadly weapon or destructive device on school property, on a school bus, or WWS events even if held outside school property.
b.  The following devices are considered to be a firearm under this rule:

1)  any weapon that will, or is designed to, or may readily be converted to, expel a projectile by the action of
an explosive or compressed air;
2)  the frame or receiver of any weapon described above;
3)  any firearm muffler or firearm silencer;
4)  any destructive device which is an explosive, incendiary, or poison gas bomb, grenade, rocket having a
propellant charge of more than four ounces, missile having an explosive or incendiary charge of more than one-quarter ounce, mine, or any similar device;
5)  any weapon that will, or that may be readily converted to, expel a projectile by the action of an explosive
or other repellent and that has any barrel with a bore of more than one-half inch in diameter;
6)  any combination of parts either designed or intended for use in converting any device into any destructive
device described in the two immediately preceding examples, and from which a destructive device may be readily assembled;
7)  an antique firearm;
8)  a rifle or a shotgun that the owner intends to use solely for sporting, recreational, or cultural purposes.

c.  Weapon - up to one-year expulsion.
d.   The penalty for possession of a firearm: suspension up to 10 (ten) days and expulsion from school for at least one calendar year with the return of the student to be at the beginning of the first trimester after the one-year period. The superintendent may reduce the length of the expulsion if the circumstances warrant such reduction.
e.  The superintendent shall notify the county prosecuting attorney’s office when a student is expelled under this rule.

In addition to the grounds listed above for expulsion or suspension, a student may be suspended or expelled for engaging in unlawful activity on or off school grounds if the unlawful activity may reasonably be considered to be an interference with school purposes or an educational function or the student’s removal is necessary to restore order or protect persons on school property. This includes any unlawful activity meeting the above criteria which takes place during weekends, holidays, or other school breaks and functions.

Suspension, expulsion, and student discipline are governed by IC 20-33-8 and Westfield Washington Schools policies and procedures are in compliance with that statute.

Non-Discrimination & Anti-Harassment (Policy 13000-01)

WWS does not discriminate on the basis of a protected class including but not limited to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, ancestry, sex, transgender status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression in its programs or activities. WWS strictly adheres to all non-discrimination and anti-harassment laws and does not tolerate acts of harassment. WWS is committed to providing a safe environment in which students can learn. WWS shall maintain a nondiscriminatory environment protecting students from discrimination and harassment.
Harassment and discrimination may take many forms, including: verbal acts and name-calling; graphic and written statements; sexual violence or unwanted sexual contact; or other conduct that may be harmful, humiliating, or physically threatening. Harassment and discrimination do not have to include intent to harm, be directed at a specific target, or involve repeated incidents, but may be present in peer-to-peer, staff-to-staff, staff-to-student, or student-to-staff interactions. Harassment and discrimination may be any act, speech, or gesture sufficiently severe, pervasive, or persistent so as to interfere with or limit the ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or opportunities provided by WWS.

Procedural Response:

Please see Policy 13000-01 for a full description of the procedure to investigate a complaint of harassment
All complaints will be followed up on and the following steps will be taken. They may not always follow this order.

• Report
• Supportive interim measures
• Investigation
• Supportive Measures
• Consequences
• Communication with parents/guardians to inform/update on investigation
• Follow up with students involved

Note: All reports are taken seriously and investigated.

Factors Involved in Decision Making Process (not limited to):

• Student’s age(s)
• Relationship between parties
• Specific offense and circumstances of incident, including if this is a repeated incident
• Verbal or physical conduct
• The effect on the targetThe degree of harm caused
• Student’s prior disciplinary record
• input from persons in parental relation, teachers, mental health professionals, as appropriate I
• Special circumstances such as if the Disability status (determine whether behavior is directly related to disability)
• Staff members involved
• Student privacy considerations under FERPA

WWS recognizes that consequences are a natural result of behavioral misconduct, and consequences need to be paired with teaching and additional support for the purpose of changing chronic misbehavior. As administrators take into account the factors involved in decision making above, a range of consequences and supportive measures have been developed following school and state board policies. This list of consequences and supportive measures are not all inclusive therefore administrative discretion will be applied as needed. WWS will follow all applicable laws and regulations in regard to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) when communicating with students, families, and community. Therefore, WWS is unable to disclose educational records and/or personally identifiable information to third parties without consent (including but not limited to: consequences received, supporting measures put in place, details of the incident, etc.).

 

Possible Consequences

Possible Supportive Measures

Mandatory parent meeting / conference Education module In School Suspension Out of School Suspension Suspension pending expulsion hearing Bus suspension Schedule alteration Alternate transportation No contact contract SRO Involvement

Remove respondent, or if requested complainant, from situation to ensure physical and/or psychological safety Counseling for complainant or respondent Referral to school-based mental health provider for complainant or respondent Referral to community resources for complainant or respondent Education modules for respondent to understand the harm Restorative practices / conversations Follow up “check-ins” for complainant / respondent Mutual restrictions on contact between parties Increased supervision of certain areas of campus Modification to class schedules / placement Classroom / community meeting Re-entry plan for complainant or respondent

The entire School Board policy (13000-01), including coordinator contact information, can be found on the district website, www.wws.k12.in.us, under School Board/Policy Information.
 

Bus Expectations

Parents/Guardians are requested to discuss School Bus Expectations with their students.  Bus expectations are designed to provide maximum safety and comfort to all students.  Parent/Guardian cooperation and support is needed so that quality transportation can be provided.  School bus drivers will ensure that the following guidelines are observed.

1. Be careful when approaching bus stops.  In areas where there are no sidewalks, walk on the left side of the roadway facing oncoming traffic.  Always cross the street in front of the bus, once the driver signals, when boarding and unloading.
2. Avoid standing or playing on the roadway while waiting for the bus.  Never chase after the bus.
3. Do not damage or destroy property near bus stops.
4. Help keep the bus on schedule.  Please allow for a five-minute window on the scheduled stop time.  Circumstances that necessitate this could be weather, traffic, etc. Please arrive to stop five minutes early.
5. No student will enter or leave the bus until it has come to a complete stop and the door has been opened by the driver.  Take your turn and avoid pushing when entering or leaving the bus.
6. Be seated promptly, sit two or three to a seat, and be careful not to block the aisles.  Remain seated until the bus stops.  Students may be assigned seats at the discretion of the driver.  No one is permitted to save seats.  Students are not to stand or move about while on the bus.
7. Loud, boisterous, profane language or indecent conduct will not be tolerated.
8. Windows will not be opened or closed except by permission of the driver.
9. Students should be waiting at the designated stop 5 minutes prior to the time the school bus is scheduled to arrive.  This does not mean the student leaves the residence when he/she sees the bus coming.  If the student is not going to ride in the morning, please notify the Transportation Office.
10. The driver has full authority of the bus while students are being transported.  For misconduct, the driver, upon notifying the parent/guardian, may suspend a student from riding for one day.  The building administrator may recommend a three or five-day suspension from riding.  Further misconduct will result in the riding privilege being revoked for the remainder of the quarter.
11. Students are not permitted to eat or drink on the bus without permission from the bus driver.  Bottles and cans are prohibited.
12. Mutilation of seats or written obscenities on any part of the bus will be sufficient grounds to deny bus privileges to the offender in addition to the offender paying for any damages.
13. As a safety precaution, students will not be permitted to leave the bus until supervision is available in the building.  After boarding the bus, a student is not permitted to leave the bus until the bus gets to the student’s designated stop or to the school.
14. The aisle of the school bus must be kept free of objects that could obstruct an emergency evacuation of the bus.  Any large object that cannot be held on the student’s lap or safely placed on the floor in the space under the seat immediately in front of the student is not permitted on the school bus.

Bus Ridership

Bus stops are placed in a location that is best for all riders.  Door to door service is only provided to Special Needs students or specific circumstances related to the unique needs of a student.

All students must ride their assigned bus to and from school.  Riding another bus is only permitted in emergency situations. In an emergency situation, a parent may contact their child's school to request that their child ride home with another student. Notes must be provided from each student's parents. The principal will check with Transportation to ensure there is enough room on that bus that day before determining whether the request will be granted. The driver and parents will then be notified. The school bus should not be used as transportation for parties or sleepovers. Parents are responsible for transporting students to events of this nature.

Please let the bus driver know of any special health problems your student might have.

School bus transportation is a privilege and not a right.  The bus driver is the sole authority on the bus while students are being transported.  It is important that each student cooperate with the bus driver and practice safe bus riding habits at all times.

Parents/Guardians are encouraged to help in the supervision of the bus stops since the school is unable to provide supervision.  Students should not arrive at the bus stops extremely early because of the lack of supervision.  

Bus Stop Change Requests

Bus stop change requests must be submitted at least 5 days before the requested date of change.

Bus stop changes must be a permanent, every day change.  A student may have different pick up and drop off locations, but they must be the same all week.  Transportation cannot accommodate intermittent or every other day requests.

Bus stop change requests must be within the boundaries of the attending school.
 

Statement of Philosophy

Westfield Middle School believes that the program of student athletics is a vital part of the educational development of the student and functions as an integral part of the total curriculum. Participation in the athletic program is a privilege that carries with it responsibilities to the school, to the athletic program, to the community, and to the participants themselves.

Lessons in sportsmanship, teamwork, competition, and how to win and lose gracefully are an integral part of each team. The athletic program offers opportunities to assist in the development of fellowship and good will, to promote self-realization, all-around growth, and to encourage learning the qualities of good citizenship.
Statement of Objectives

In order to provide a positive image of school athletics at Westfield Middle School, the athletic program will endeavor to provide opportunities for:

1. Physical, mental, and emotional growth and development.
2. Acquisition and development of special skills.
3. Team play with the development of such commitments as loyalty, cooperation, self-sacrifice, fair play, and other positive social traits.
4. Directed leadership and supervision that stresses self-discipline, self-motivation, excellence, and the ideals of good sportsmanship that make for winning and losing graciously.
5. The development of lasting friendships with both teammates and opponents.
6. The development of habits of health, sanitation, and safety.
7. A focus of interest on the athletic program for the student body, faculty and community that will generate a feeling of unity.
8. Provisions for worthy use of leisure time both for the present and the future, either as a participant or spectator.

Athletic Programs

Westfield Middle School presently offers 22 athletic teams. Teams include participants in grades 7 and 8 unless otherwise specified. The list is as follows:

6th, 7th & 8th grade boys cross country                         
7th & 8th grade girls cheerleading
6th, 7th & 8th grade girls cross country                         
6th, 7th & 8th grade wrestling
7th & 8th grade boys football                             
7th & 8th grade boys and girls golf
7th & 8th grade girls volleyball               
7th & 8th grade boys baseball
7th & 8th grade boys and girls basketball           
7th & 8th grade girls softball
6th, 7th & 8th grade boys and girls swimming & diving       
7th & 8th grade boys and girls tennis                                                         
7th & 8th grade boys and girls Track and Field

Duties of Coaches

1. Operate programs within the philosophy of the school.
2. Maintain good public relations within the school, community, and other schools involved.
3. Provide leadership in setting high standards for the athletes involved concerning training rules, school citizenship, academic achievement, and sportsmanship.
   • Establish written rules and guidelines with reasonable consequences for participation, dates and times for practice, a bus schedule, and a schedule of events.
   • These are to be given to each athlete for his/her signature and his/her parent and/or guardian's signature. Athletes will not be allowed to participate until the signature sheet is turned in to the coach.
4. Be sure that athletes have all required forms properly completed and turned in, as he/she will not be allowed to practice or compete until this is done. Coaches are to collect forms and turn them in to the Athletic Director.
5. Treat opponents as guests at home contests, be courteous, and respect the wishes of the host school when at away contests.
6. Be fully aware of legal responsibilities of your activities, taking precautions against negligence.
7. Be adequately prepared with the knowledge of the sport.
8. Work cooperatively with the middle school Athletic Director, the other coaches, and the administration.
9. Work cooperatively with, and assist the varsity head coach.
10. If responsible for assistant coaches, assign each their specific duties, convey all information and materials to them, and be loyal to them.
11. If an assistant, work cooperatively with, assist and be loyal to the head coach.
12. Make maximum use of practice time and have a detailed plan for each practice.
13. Properly supervise all athletes and managers before, during and after practice, or an athletic event.
14. Properly supervise all athletes and managers during bus trips.
15. Report injuries that require a doctor's treatment to the Athletic Trainer.
16. Administer game details for home and away contests.
17. Properly supervise the facilities that are being used including locker rooms.
18. Properly supervise the care, issuing, and collecting of equipment and uniforms.
19. Be aware of problems in equipment and facilities and make them known to the Athletic Director.
20. Properly inventory and put away all equipment and uniforms at the end of the season.
21. Present a list of awards, award winners, inventory, equipment and uniform needs to the Athletic Director at the end of the season.
22. Any and all other duties assigned by the administration that is related to the sport of which the coach is responsible.

Coaches are to work in a spirit of cooperation with each other and with other school sponsored activities. If conflicts arise that involve an academic activity (e.g. band, choir, and science fair), the academic activity will take precedence.
 

Age

An athlete may not reach their 16th birthday on or before the last competition date or the beginning date of the county tournament of the sport in which they wish to participate.

Change of Schools

An athlete must be eligible in the school from which they transfer. The athlete must have been a member of the same sport in the school from which they transfer if our team requires a limit to the number of participants and there is still room for additional participants. There must be at least 50% of the season remaining.

Completion of Required Forms

All athletes who wish to try out/start a sport must be fully registered in FinalForms. Athletes need an uploaded physical in FinalForms dated after April 1st. In addition, all online forms must be completed to be considered fully registered.

Conduct

When applicable, IHSAA rules will be followed in regards to conduct, character, and discipline

Students at Westfield Middle School are expected to act in such a manner as to maintain the high expectations held for their behavior by the community. Westfield Washington Schools will treat bullying/hazing as it does intimidation and harassment. Students guilty of bullying/hazing will face the entire gamut of disciplinary actions available to the school including suspension and expulsion.

After school detention and lunch detentions may result in loss of playing or limited playing time. Excessive detentions could result in dismissal from the team. If a student receives a Thursday School they will miss one athletic contest. Multiple Thursday Schools may result in dismissal from the team.

An athlete, if Suspended or Expelled from school, will be ineligible for participation until the term of the Suspension or Expulsion has expired. Depending on the nature of the offense, and previous discipline history, the Principal/Athletic Director reserves the right to remove the athlete from the team. In general,the following consequences will be used for Suspensions or Expulsions from school:

1. 1st and 2nd suspension from school (in-school or out-of-school suspension).
2. 3rd suspension from school: Suspension from athletic participation for 45 school days after the term of the suspension has expired.
3. 4th suspension from school and thereafter: Suspension from athletic participation for 180 school days after the term of the suspension has expired.
4. 1st expulsion from school: Suspension from athletic participation for 45 school days after the term of the expulsion has expired.
5. 2nd expulsion from school and thereafter: Suspension from athletic participation for 180 school days after the term of the expulsion has expired.

Enrollment

Athletes must be enrolled in grade seven or eight at Westfield Middle School. Sixth graders may participate in cross country, wrestling and swimming. If special placement requires an athlete to attend another school or attend Westfield Middle School from another school, the athlete may participate at either school.

Grades

Eligibility will be checked every 4.5 weeks. A student who is failing more than one class is ineligible for the rest of the quarter.

Participation

Athletes at Westfield Middle School may not participate in contests designated for grade nine and above. Athletes must have completed 10 separate days of organized practice before they are eligible to participate in athletic contests. Athletes, who have successfully completed a sport and are within at least one week of beginning another sport, must have completed 5 separate days of organized practice before they are eligible to participate in athletic contests.

School Attendance

An athlete must attend school the day of a game or contest. This means that the athlete must be at school by 12:00 p.m. If an athlete leaves school ill after 12:00 p.m. they may not participate in contests or practice that evening. This rule does not apply to those individuals who have a prearranged excuse from their parent/guardian to leave school. Any exception to this rule must have prior approval of the Athletic Director or Principal.

If a student does not participate in PE classes, he/she will not be able to participate in athletic activities that evening.

Unauthorized Possession of School Owned Equipment

No athlete shall have in his/her possession any school owned equipment from this school or any other school, athletic department or otherwise, other than that which is to be worn or used for practice, games, or meets. The athlete will be on indefinite suspension until the equipment is returned in good condition or replaced if the equipment is lost, stolen, or damaged. This policy will carry over from Westfield Middle School to Westfield High School.

Violations Involving Tobacco/Harmful Inhalants/Drugs/Alcohol/Court Substantiated Criminal Acts/Arrests

The Principal/Athletic Director reserves the right to remove an athlete from the team. In general, the following consequences will be used for the above stated violations::

1. On the first offense, an athlete will have to join a counseling/rehabilitation program. In addition, the athlete will miss 20% of his/her season.
2. On the second offense, the athlete will be ineligible for one (1) year.
3. On the third offense, the athlete will be permanently suspended from WMS athletics.
    

Athletic Awards

To receive an award, an athlete must successfully complete the sport of participation. This includes turning in to the coach all school issued equipment in good condition and/or paying replacement costs of any lost, stolen, or damaged school equipment.

Each athlete will receive a participation certificate. Each sport will be allowed to hand out individual award certificates determined by the coach. Special awards may be allowed for tournament champions and/or undefeated seasons if special awards have not already been provided.

Athletic Facilities Usage

At no time is it permissible for individuals or groups to use athletic facilities without authorized supervision or permission, or while teams are having an official practice session. Athletes and coaches using athletic facilities for practice will refrain from using equipment not specifically for their sport.

Athletic Insurance

Westfield Middle School does not provide athletic insurance. All medical expenses will be assumed by the parents/guardians. Athletes may obtain applications for supplemental insurance from the main office; however, Westfield Middle School is not an agent for any insurance company.

Attendance of Practice

Athletes are responsible for being present at all set meetings or practice sessions unless excused by the coach prior to the practice or meeting. A medical statement or excuse does not excuse an athlete from attending all meetings or practices if physically able.

Bus Trips

All athletes are to ride to and from the contest site on school approved transportation. Any exception must first be cleared with the coach in charge by the parent/guardian in person.

Cell Phones and Cameras

The use of cameras or cell phones (whether it has a built in camera or not), may not be used inside a locker room or offices in the locker room for any purpose. This means no texting, no calling and no pictures. This rule applies to all players, managers, and coaches (coaches may use a cell phone outside the locker rooms only). No other exceptions are permitted. Should an athlete receive a call or text while in the locker room, the athlete should take their backpack, book bag, gym bag, etc., which contains the phone out to the hall before removing the phone. Cameras and cell phones may not be in use or out in view in the locker room for any reason at any time.

Any violation of this rule will result in immediate discipline, which could include dismissal from the team. If a photograph is taken, the matter will be turned over to the legal authorities for possible prosecution.

Changing Sports

Athletes will be allowed to transfer from one sport to another during a given season only upon mutual agreement of both coaches and the approval of the Athletic Director. There must be room for additional participants and at least 50% of the season remaining.

Athletes will not be able to quit a team during a season then attempt to join another team that is currently in that same season. If an athlete quits or is dismissed from the team, they will not be able to join another sport until the next season.

Cheerleaders

Cheerleaders will abide by the guidelines established within this handbook and also the guidelines established within the Cheerleader Handbook. In the case of overlapping guidelines, the more stringent guideline will be followed.

Dropping a Sport

An athlete is to notify the coach immediately in person. An athlete should be responsible enough to face the coach and explain to him/her the reasons for quitting. The athlete is to turn in all school equipment that has been issued and pay replacement cost of any lost, stolen, or damaged equipment. The athlete is responsible for all school equipment issued to him/her. All awards that would have been earned had he/she completed the season will be forfeited. An athlete who quits a squad during the season will not be allowed to join another sport until the above responsibilities are fulfilled.

Equipment Storage Rooms

All athletic equipment will be stored in and issued from the equipment rooms of each respective sport. At no time are there to be unauthorized personnel in these rooms. Authorized personnel are defined as school employees, athletic staff and certain specified student managers with athletic staff supervision.

General Conduct

Horseplay will not be tolerated at any time. Athletes must maintain clean locker, room habits, keeping their bodies as well as their athletic equipment clean. All athletes are to be properly attired before leaving the locker room.

Profane language will not be tolerated at any time. Since athletes represent their school and community, they should be neatly groomed and properly dressed at all times. They should endeavor to set a positive example of behavior both during and outside of school. Athletes are to develop good study habits and work to their maximum scholastically.

Individual Athletic Team Rules

Coaches are responsible for having specific written rules, guidelines, and procedures for each athlete in their particular sport. These are to be cleared by the Athletic Director.

Injuries and Training Facilities

The coach is to know the health status of their athletes at all times. Athletes are to keep their coach immediately informed of any injuries that have occurred, treatment outside of school, and any recurring injuries. Be sure that all injuries are given proper attention.

All school first aid materials are to remain in the proper storage area or in the first aid kits under the direction of the trainer, student trainer, or coach at practices or contests. At no time is there to be first aid materials in an athlete's locker. All treatments and rehabilitation procedures are to be designated by the athlete's doctor, sports medicine doctors, or sports medicine trainers.

Participation

Boys are not allowed to participate on any girls teams. Where similar programs are available for both boys and girls, girls may not participate on the boys teams. Athletes may not participate in more than one school sport per season of those that are occurring simultaneously (e.g. boys cross country and football, girls cross country and girls volleyball, boys basketball and boys swimming, boys track and golf, girls track and golf, cheerleading and all fall and winter sports).

Athletes may participate in more than one sport per season of those who’s ending and starting times overlap (e.g. boys’ basketball and wrestling, boys swimming and wrestling, girls swimming and girls’ basketball). Coaches involved are to mutually work out practice and contest conflicts. As a general rule, if practice interferes with a contest, the contest takes precedence. If two contests conflict, the sport in which the athlete was first participating takes precedence. If practices conflict, the sport in which the athlete was first participating takes precedence unless coaches come to a mutual agreement.

Payment for Medical Assistance

All expenses for medical assistance will be assumed by the parents/guardians.

Publicity

By participating in athletics at Westfield Middle School, the athlete’s name, grade and photo will appear on the team roster and in programs distributed at sporting events. Some rosters will be found online.  In wrestling, the athlete’s weight will be listed.

All sports are covered by the local news media and results of contests are printed along with athlete’s names and photos.

Sportsmanship

Good sportsmanship will be encouraged both in victory and defeat. There must be respect for constituted authority both on and off the field of play. Foul and/or abusive language and fighting will not be tolerated at any time.

Coaches will be expected to address violations of sportsmanship within their guidelines for their teams. If the athlete and/or parent/guardian are uncooperative in this matter, the situation will be reviewed by the coach, Athletic Director and parent/guardian to determine whether the athlete will continue to participate.

Supervision

Athletes must be supervised at all times while under the jurisdiction of a coach. This includes while in the locker room, on the field of play, and on the bus as it travels to and from the contest site. At athletic contests, in the absence of the principal or athletic director, the coach is the acting authority for the school system.