SMS Student Handbook 2013-2014

200 Tiger Trail
Swainsboro, GA 30401
478-237-8047

2013-2014

STUDENT & PARENT HANDBOOK
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Please complete and return to your childs first block teacher.
I have read the Swainsboro Middle School Handbook. I understand the procedures, rules,
and regulations within this document and agree to follow the guidelines set forth by
Swainsboro Middle School and the Emanuel County Board of Education.

_________________________ ________________
Student Signature Date

_________________________ ________________
Parent Signature Date

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SWAINSBORO MIDDLE SCHOOL
FACULTY & STAFF
2013-2014
Mrs. Gail Greenway, Principal
Mr. Robbie Warnock, Assistant Principal
Ms. Monica Pace, Counselor
Mrs. Darlene Jordan, Instructional Coach

Sixth Grade
Cheryl Canady
Tashehonia Easterling
Michelle Fondren
Chandra Hooks
Donald Hurst
Whitney Justice
Yvette Mercer
Lisa Sammons
Tammy Sammons
Lynn Slater
Cassie Tibitts

Para-Professional Staff
Tammy Bedgood
Shaakira Collins
Judy Fennell
Gwendolyn Williams
Roosevelt Young

School Nurse
Natalie Jordan

Seventh Grade
Rhonda Billingsley
Teresa Bright
Judy Cannady
Kristy Clemens
Sharon Edenfield
Marcie Gay
Ashley Hooks
April Mason
Joni McNeely
Deanna Ryan
Michael Singletary
Martha Thomas

Connections
Paula Cadle-Math Skills
Joy Craft- Chorus
Scott Gizinski-Weight Training
Ashley Henry- Ag Education
Gene Hundley Band
Debbie Markley Career
Connections
Regina Paul- Reading Skills
David Ray- PE
Leah Rehberg- Family &
Consumer Science
Terry Sweat PE
Kelli Torpy- Keyboarding

Media Specialist
Renae McNeely
Amy Hooks-Clerk

Eighth Grade
Ragan Adkins
Shonray Brooks
Arlene Drew
Diana Fields
Russell Johnson
Krysten McDiffit
Megan Morris
Lindsey Sconyers
Michelle Scott
Mark Sweat
Jessica Smith
Lynn Torrance

Secretarial
Katy Boatright
Amy Screws

Bookkeeper
Diane Morris

I n-School Suspension
Patricia Dukes

Custodial Staff
Leon Gilmore Chief
Jannie Powell
Roberta Smith
Wayne Way

Cafeteria Staff
Dawn Williams Manager
Geraldine Arledge
Gail Hill
Homer Habersham
Lisa Hollaway
Phyllis Williams

Students attending Swainsboro Middle School will be assigned to an academic team consisting of math, language arts,
science, and social studies teachers. Students will remain in their academic team for the entire year. In addition to
academics, all students will take physical education, health, and will rotate through connections classes. The
Connections classes will change each semester and will include career connections, keyboarding, fine arts, agriculture
education, and family and consumer science. Students qualifying will be scheduled in math skills and reading skills.

Swainsboro Middle Schools mission is to increase student learning and achievement
with meaningful, informed collaboration; clear, measurable goals; and
the regular collection, analysis, and use of performance data.

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SWAINSBORO MIDDLE SCHOOL
MASTER SCHEDULE
2013-2014

6
th
Grade Connections
7:55-9:05 Block 1 Academic

7:55-9:05 Block 1 Plan Time
9:05-9:35 Tiger Time


9:37-11:02 Block 2- 7
th
grade
10:45-11:15 Lunch

11:17-12:40 Block 3- 6
th
grade
11:17-12:40 Block 3- Connections 12:45-1:15 Lunch (Block 4)
12:42-1:55 Block 4-Academic

1:37-3:05 Block 5- 8
th
grade

7
th
Grade
Lunch Times
7:55-9:05 Block 1- Academic

10:45-11:15 Lunch 6
th
Grade

11:30-12:00 Lunch 8
th
Grade
9:37-11:02 Block 2-Connections

12:14-12:44 Lunch 7
th
Grade

12:45-1:15 Connections Teachers
12:14-12:44 Lunch



8
th
Grade




11:30-12:00 Lunch

12:25-1:35 Block 3 - Academic

12:25-1:35 Block 4 - Academic

1:37-3:05 Block 5- Connections

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ADDRESSES
It is the responsibility of the guardian to notify the school of any change of a students address. Forms are available in the school office.

ADVISOR/ADVISEE PROGRAM PAWS
The Advisor/Advisee Program is designed to help students gain a stronger foundation in their career, academic, and personal/social
development while fostering a positive relationship with their adult advisor. Each student will be assigned to a teacher in the building and will
stay with that adult throughout their time at SMS. Advisors will go over academic progress with students and create plans for success. The
ultimate goal of our Advisor/Advisee program is to Produce A Well-rounded Student.

ARRIVAL AT SCHOOL
There is no outside supervision available before 7:30. Students dropped off before 7:30 are the responsibility of parents.
Students who eat breakfast should do so immediately upon arrival at school. Students arriving late to school will not be allowed to eat
breakfast. Exceptions may be made for late buses.

ATTENDANCE POLICY
The following policy was adopted by the Emanuel County Board of Education on March 10, 2005
According to Georgia State Law absences and tardies are only excused for the following reasons:
a) illness
b) death or family emergency
c) religious holiday
d) orders from government agencies
e) serving as a page for the Georgia General Assembly
f) hazardous weather as determined by the Emanuel Co. Board of Education
g) voting or registering to vote

Students must be present for at least of each class to be counted present for that class. Written excuses must be turned in within 5 days of
returning to school. An excused absence allows a student to make up work in class. However, those absences still count towards a students
10 day per semester allowance. Students with unexcused absences will only be able to receive a maximum grade 75 for work missed during
the unexcused absence.

County Procedure for Reporting Absenses/Tardies/Early Release
3-5 Unexcused Absences: Teacher intervention; phone contact

5 Unexcused Absences: Counselor makes contact; phone contact; letters mailed, notes
sent home by student; parent conferences; discussion
concerning attendance during Response to Intervention (RTI)
meetings and Individualized Educational Program (IEP)
meetings.

8 Unexcused Absences: Counselor makes Social Worker Referral

3 Unexcused Tardies/Early Releases is the equivalent to 1 Unexcused Absence

Excessive Excused Absences: In the event a child has 10 or more excused absences with
an excuse being written by the parent, counselor and
social worker will meet with the parent to address reason
for the absences. This excludes written excused absence from
Health Care Providers. In some cases, a referral is made to
Truancy court; in others, there may be a need for interventions
from outside agencies.
State Board Rules --- Update (July 2006)
Policy code impacted: JB-Student Attendance or other attendance policy.
Issue: State Board Rule 160-5-1-.10, Student Attendance , was revised to conform with O.C.G.A.20-2-692.1, a new addition to
the compulsory attendance law that permits a student, whose parent is in the military service and who has been called to duty for or
is on leave from overseas deployment to a combat zone or combat support posting, to be granted up to five excused absences per
school year to visit with a parent prior to deployment or during such leave.

Also, the paragraph regarding student withdrawal was deleted from the student attendance rule and revised for inclusion in a
proposed new Rule 160-5-1-.28, Student Enrollment and Withdrawal, which was presented at the July meeting and reinitiated for
discussion at a public hearing in August, with adoption proposed to occur at the September SBOE meeting.
Action to be taken: Each local board of education that has not already done so should amend its
attendance policy to add this additional category of excused absence.
Social Worker Interventions:
1. Attend SST/IEP meetings to address issue of attendance
2. In the event there is an open DFCS case, Social Worker will contact case worker for
assistance in addressing the problem.
3. In the event the student is involved with DJJ, probation officer will be contacted
4. In some cases, letters will be sent or home visits will be made.

At the end of the school year, perfect attendance will be awarded to those students who have been counted present in all classes.

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BEHAVIOR PLAN- ADMINISTRATION OF SCHOOL RULES AND POLICIES

1. The discipline policies of Swainsboro Middle School apply to all students when: (A) on the school grounds before, during, and/or after
school hours, (B) on the school grounds at any other time when the school is being used by any school group, (C) off the school grounds at a
school activity, function, or event, and (D) enroute to and from school or off the school grounds while the student is in attendance at school or
any school function or is otherwise subject to jurisdiction of school authorities.
2. A student is deemed to be in possession of an illegal and/or banned item(s) when such item(s) is/are found on the person of the student in
his/her possessions, in his/her locker, or property being used by the school, at any school function or activity, or any school event held away
from school.
3. Students are to notify an administrator or staff member when illegal or suspected illegal items, dangerous items, or other items banned from
school are found in the school building, on the school campus, or on the school bus. Students are advised not to pick up or handle these items,
unidentified items, or items not belonging to them.
4. Search and/or Seizure - Students possess the right of privacy of person as well as freedom from unreasonable search and seizure of property
guaranteed by the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution. This individual right, however, is balanced by the schools responsibility to protect
the health, safety, and welfare of all of its' students and employees. School employees may conduct searches when they have reason to
suspect that the health, safety, and welfare of students may be in danger. Any school employee making a search or a seizure will follow these
guidelines:
A. General searches of school property (including personal items found in school property) may be conducted at any time when
there is reasonable cause for school employees to believe that something that violates a law or school rule is on school property.
This search of school property may be made without the student being present.
B. Illegal items (firearms, weapons, drugs) or other possessions reasonably determined to be a threat to the safety and security of
others, or that might possibly interfere with school purposes may be seized by school employees.
C. Items, which are used to disrupt or interfere with the educational process, may be temporarily removed from a students person.
D. A students person may be searched by school employees when there is reasonable cause to believe that the student has on
his/her person illegal items or other items that may interfere with school purposes. A hand-held metal detector may be used in
conjunction with administered searches.
E. The school maintains ownership of student lockers. The school may and will search student lockers on a periodic basis to protect
the health, safety, and welfare of all students.
5. Students found to be accessories to any violation of school rules are subject to the same penalties as students who are actively involved in
committing such offenses.
6. The discipline policies listed are not intended to be exclusive or all-inclusive. All types of offenses/infractions may not be included, so
modifications will be made, if necessary, at the discretion of the administration.
7. Due process will include appropriate hearings and reviews; the rights of individuals will be ensured and/or protected.
8. Students should recognize their responsibility to know the discipline policies of the school and to ask administrators, faculty, or staff for
clarification. Students will receive an overview of the policies at the beginning of the school year and will be reminded of the policies
throughout the school year.

Emanuel County Schools
2012-2013Student Code of Conduct

It is the purpose of the Emanuel County Board of Education to operate each school in a manner that will provide an orderly process of
education and that will provide for the welfare and safety of all students who attend the schools within the district. In accordance with that
purpose, the Board of Education has adopted a policy which requires all schools to adopt codes of conduct which require students to conduct
themselves at all times in order to facilitate a learning environment for themselves and other students. These standards for behavior require
students to respect each other and school district employees, to obey student behavior policies adopted by the Board and to obey student
behavior rules established at each school within the district.

The schools primary goal is to educate, not to punish; however, when the behavior of an individual student comes in conflict with the rights
of others, corrective actions may be necessary for the benefit of that individual and the school as a whole. Accordingly, students shall be
governed by policies, regulations and rules set forth in the Code of Conduct.

The Code of Conduct is effective during the following times and in the following places:

At school or on school property at any time;
Off school grounds at any school-related activity, function or event and while traveling to and from such events;
On school buses and at school bus stops.

Also, students may be disciplined for conduct off campus which could result in the student being criminally charged with a felony and which
makes the students continued presence at school a potential danger to persons or property at the school or which disrupts the educational
process.

Major offenses including, but not limited to, drug and weapon offenses can lead to schools being named as an Unsafe School according to the
provisions of State Board Rule 160-4-8-.16, UNSAFE SCHOOL CHOICE OPTIONS.

Parents are encouraged to become familiar with the Code of Conduct and to be supportive of it in their daily communication wi th their
children and others in the community.

PROGRESSIVE DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES
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When it is necessary to impose discipline, school administrators and teachers will follow a progressive discipline process. The degree of
discipline to be imposed by each school official will be in proportion to the severity of the behavior of a particular student and will take into
account the students discipline history, the age of the student and other relevant factors.

The Code of Conduct provides a systematic process of behavioral correction in which inappropriate behaviors are followed by consequences.
Disciplinary actions are designed to teach students self-discipline and to help them substitute inappropriate behaviors with those that are
consistent with the character traits from Georgias Character Education Program.

The following disciplinary actions may be imposed for any violation of this Code of Conduct:

Warning and/or Counseling with a School Administrator or Counselor
Loss of Privileges
Isolation or Time Out
Removal from Class or Activity
Notification of Parents
Parent Conference
In School Suspension
Detention
Placement in an Alternative Education Program
Short-term Suspension
Referral to a Tribunal for Long-term Suspension or Expulsion
Suspension or Expulsion from the School Bus
Referral to Law Enforcement or Juvenile Court Officials: Georgia law requires that certain acts of misconduct be referred to the
appropriate law enforcement officials. The School will refer any act of misconduct to law enforcement officials when school officials
determine such referral to be necessary or appropriate.

The maximum punishments for an offense include long-term suspension or expulsion, including permanent expulsion, but those punishments
will be determined only by a disciplinary tribunal as outlined in the Board of Education policies.

Parents or students may elect not to contest whether a student has violated the Code of Conduct or the appropriate discipline, and in such
cases, an agreement may be negotiated which would include the parents or students waiving a right to a hearing before a disciplinary tribunal.
Such an agreement and waiver must be approved also by the disciplinary tribunal or hearing officer in accordance with local board policy.

Before a student is suspended for ten days or less, the principal or designee will inform the student of the offense for which the student is
charged and allow the student to explain his or her behavior. If the student is suspended, the students parents will be notified if possible.
School officials may involve law enforcement officials when evidence surrounding a situation necessitates their involvement or when there is
a legal requirement that an incident be reported.

School officials may search a student if there is reasonable suspicion the student is in possession of an item that is illegal or against school
rules. Students vehicles brought on campus, student book bags, school lockers, desks and other school property are subject to inspection and
search by school authorities at any time without further notice to students or parents. Students are required to cooperate if asked to open book
bags, lockers or any vehicle brought on campus. Metal detectors and drug or weapon sniffing dogs may be utilized at school or at any school
function, including activities which occur outside normal school hours or off the school campus at the discretion of administrators.

BEHAVIOR WHICH WILL RESULT IN DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES

The degree of discipline imposed will be in accordance with the progressive discipline process unless otherwise stated.
Possession, sale, use in any amount, distribution, or being under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug,
amphetamine, barbiturates, marijuana, drug paraphernalia or alcoholic beverage or other intoxicant

Possession, distribution, attempted sale or sale of substances represented as drugs or alcohol

Sale, attempted sale, distribution, or being under the influence of a prescription or over the counter drug
Possession or use of a weapon or dangerous instrument as provided for in Code Section 16-11-127.1: A student shall not possess, use,
handle, or transmit any object that reasonably can be considered a weapon. Students who possess firearms on campus will be subject to a
minimum of a one calendar year suspension and will be referred to law enforcement officials.

Verbal assault, including threats of violence or bodily harm and/or sexual assault or harassment, of teachers, administrators, other
school personnel, other students, or persons attending school-related functions: Immediate suspension and automatic referral to a
disciplinary tribunal if a student is alleged to have committed an assault upon a teacher or other school personnel; possible referral to a
disciplinary tribunal if a student is alleged to have committed an assault upon another student or a person attending a school-related function.

Physical assault or battery, including sexual battery, of other students, or persons attending school-related functions: possible referral
to a disciplinary tribunal if a student is alleged to have committed battery upon another student or a person attending a school-related function.

Physical violence against a teacher, school bus driver, or other school personnel:

(1) Immediate suspension and automatic referral to the disciplinary tribunal if a student is alleged to have committed an act of physical
violence against a teacher or other school personnel: Expulsion for the remainder of the students eligibility to attend public schools for acts of
physical violence found by a tribunal to have intentionally made physical contact which causes physical harm to another unless such physical
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contact or physical harm was in defense of himself or herself, as provided in Code Section 16-3-21; or the Board may authorize the student to
attend alternative school for the period of the expulsion; provided, however, that if such student is in kindergarten through grade six, then the
Board upon the recommendation of the tribunal may permit the student to re-enroll in regular programs for grades 9 through 12; and provided
further that if the Board does not operate an alternative education program for grades kindergarten through grade six, then the Board may
permit the student in kindergarten through grade six who commits such an act to re-enroll in the public school system. The student shall be
referred to juvenile court with a request for a petition alleging delinquent behavior.

(2) Possible punishments may include expulsion, long-term suspension, or short-term suspension for students found by a tribunal to have
intentionally made physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with the person of another.

Bus Misbehavior

The following specific provisions shall govern student conduct and safety on all school buses:

(1) All provisions of the Student Code of Conduct apply to behavior on the school bus, including but not limited to, acts of physical violence
as defined by Code Section 20-2-751.6, bullying as defined by subsection (a) of the Code Section 20-2-751.4, physical assault or battery of
other persons on the school bus verbal assault of other persons on the school bus, disrespectful conduct toward the school bus driver or other
persons on the school bus, and other unruly behavior;

(2) A meeting of the parent or guardian of the student and appropriate school district officials must be held to form a school bus behavior
contract whenever:

A student is found to have engaged in bullying; or
A student is found to have engaged in physical assault or battery of another person on the school bus.

The school bus behavior contract shall provide for age-appropriate discipline, penalties, and restrictions for student misconduct on the bus.
Provisions may include, but are not limited to, assigned seating, ongoing parental involvement, and suspension from riding the bus.

These provisions regarding use of a bus behavior contract are not to be construed to limit the instances when other code of conduct violations
may require use of a student bus behavior contract.

(3) Students shall be prohibited from using any electronic devices during the operation of a school bus, including but not limited to cell
phones; pagers; audible radios, tape or compact disc players without headphones; or any other electronic device in a manner that might
interfere with the school
bus communication equipment or the school bus drivers operation of the school bus; and

(4) Students shall be prohibited from using mirrors, lasers, flash cameras, or any other lights or reflective devices in a manner that might
interfere with the school bus drivers operation of the school bus.

Disrespectful conduct, including use of vulgar or profane language, toward teachers, administrators, other school personnel, other
students, or persons attending school-related functions

Any behavior based on a students race, national origin, sex, or disability that is unwelcome, unwanted, and/or uninvited by the
recipient is prohibited, including verbal or non-verbal taunting, physical contact, unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual
favors, and other verbal or physical contact of a sexual nature, up to and including sexual harassment as used in connection with Title
IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.

Possession or use of tobacco in any form

Damaging or defacing personal property, including the property of another student or any person legitimately at the school, or school
property (vandalism or graffiti) during school hours or off-school hours.

Theft

Extortion or attempted extortion

Possession and/or use of fireworks or any explosive

Activating a fire alarm under false pretenses or making a bomb threat

Insubordination, disorderly conduct, disobeying school rules, regulations, or directives;

Disobeying directives given by teachers, administrators, or other school staff

Classroom and school disturbances

Violation of school dress code

Use of profane, vulgar, or obscene words or indecent exposure

Use during instructional time of cell phone or electronic communication device, except for health or other reasons approved by an
administrator
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Inappropriate public displays of affection

Gambling or possession of gambling devices

Moving and non-moving driving violations

Giving false information to school officials

Cheating on school assignments

Unexcused absence, chronic tardiness, skipping class, leaving campus without permission, failure to comply with compulsory
attendance law

Bullying: Georgia law mandates that upon a finding that a student in grades 6-12 has committed the offense of bullying for the third time in a
school year, the student shall be assigned to an alternative school.
Inciting, advising, or counseling of others to engage in prohibited acts.

Willful and persistent violation of the student code of conduct.

Criminal law violations/Off-campus misconduct: A student whose conduct off campus could result in the student being criminally charged
with a felony and which makes the students continued presence at school a potential danger to persons or property at the school or which
disrupts the educational process may be subject to disciplinary action, including in-school suspension, short-term suspension and referral to a
disciplinary tribunal.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

Assault: Any threat or attempt to physically harm another person or any act which reasonably places another person in fear of physical harm.
(Example: threatening language or swinging at someone in an attempt to strike).

Battery: Intentionally making physical contact with another person in an insulting, offensive, or provoking manner or in a way that physically
harms the other person.

Bullying: Bullying is defined as follows: An act which occurs on school property, on school vehicles, at designated school bus stops, or at
school related functions or activities, or by use of data or software that is accessed through a computer, computer system, computer network,
or other electronic technology of a local school system, that is:

1. Any willful attempt or threat to inflict injury on another person, when accompanied by an apparent present ability to do so;

2. Any intentional display of force such as would give the victim reason to fear or expect immediate bodily harm; or

3. Any intentional written, verbal, or physical act, which a reasonable person would perceive as being intended to threaten, harass, or
intimidate, that:

a. Causes another person substantial physical harm within the meaning of Code Section 16-5-23.1 or visible bodily harm as such term
is defined in Code Section 16-5-23.1;

b. Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student's education;

c. Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or

d. Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.

Three confirmed cases of bullying in one school term will result in automatic placement in Crossroads Alternative School. When a case of
bullying has been confirmed it will be documented in the office and reports will be sent to the parents/guardians of the bully and the student
who is being bullied.

Cheating: Any willful attempt to obtain or assist in obtaining answers or information on graded work using unauthorized methods.

Chronic Disciplinary Problem Student: A student who exhibits a pattern of behavioral characteristics which interfere with the learning
process of students around him or her and which are likely to recur.

Corporal Punishment: Physical punishment of a student by a school official in the presence of another school official.

Detention: A requirement that the student report to a specified school location and to a designated teacher or school official to make up work
missed. Detention may require the students attendance before school or after school. Students are given one days warning so that
arrangements for transportation can be made by the parents or guardians.

Disciplinary Tribunal: School officials appointed by the Board of Education to sit as fact finder and judge with respect to student
disciplinary matters.

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Dress Code: The current dress code is explained in the student handbook.

Drug: The term drug does not include prescriptions issued to the individual, aspirin or similar medications and/or cold medications that are
taken according to product use recommendations and board policy. Caffeine pills are considered drugs.
Expulsion: Suspension of a student from a public school beyond the current school quarter or semester. Such action may be taken only by a
disciplinary tribunal.

Extortion: Obtaining money or goods from another student by violence, threats, or misuse of authority.

Fireworks: The term fireworks means any combustible or explosive composition or any substance of combination of substances or article
prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration, or detonation, as well as articles
containing any explosive or flammable compound and tablets and other devices containing an explosive substance.

Gambling: Engaging in a game or contest in which the outcome is dependent upon chance even though accompanied by some skill, and in
which a participant stands to win or lose something of value.

In-School Suspension: Removal of a student from class(es) or regular school program and assignment of that student to an alternative
program isolated from peers. During the period of suspension, the student is excluded from all school-sponsored activities including
competitive events and/or activities sponsored by the school or its employees.

Physical Violence: Intentionally making physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature with the person of another: or intentionally
making physical contact which causes physical harm to another.

Suspension: Removal of a student from the regular school program for a period not to exceed 10 days (short-term) or for a period greater than
10 days (long-term, which may be imposed only by a disciplinary tribunal). During the period of suspension, the student is excluded from all
school-sponsored activities including practices, as well as competitive events, and/or activities sponsored by the school or its employees.

Theft: The offense of taking or misappropriating any property, of another with the intention of depriving that person of the property,
regardless of the manner in which the property is taken or appropriated.

Waiver: A waiver is an agreement not to contest whether a student has committed an infraction of the Code of Conduct and the acceptance of
consequences in lieu of a hearing before a disciplinary tribunal.

Weapons: The term weapon is defined in Code Section 16-11-127.1 and for the purpose of this policy includes any object which is or may be
used to inflict bodily injury or to place another in fear for personal safety or well-being. The following things may be defined as dangerous
weapons: any pistol, revolver, or any weapons designed or intended to propel a missile of any kind, or any dirk, any bat, club, or other
bludgeon-type weapon, any stun gun taser, bowie knife, switchblade knife, ballistic knife, any other knife, straight-edge razor or razor blade,
spring stick, metal knucks, chains, blackjack, or any flailing instrument consisting of two or more rigid parts connected in such a way as to
allow them to swing freely, which may be known as a nunchaku, or fighting chain, throwing star or oriental dart, or any weapon of like kind.

PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY
This Code of Conduct is based on the expectation that parents, guardians, teachers and school administrators will work together to improve
and enhance student behavior and academic performance and will communicate freely their concerns about, and actions in response to, student
behavior that detracts from the learning environment. School administrators recognize that two-way communications through personal
contacts are extremely valuable; therefore, they provide information to parents as well as on-going opportunities for school personnel to hear
parents concerns and comments.

Parents and students should contact the principal of the school if specific questions arise related to the Code of Conduct.

The Code of Conduct specifies within its standards of behavior various violations of the Code which may result in a school staff members
request that a parent or guardian come to the school for a conference. Parents are encouraged to visit the schools regularly and are expected to
be actively involved in the behavior support processes designed to promote positive choices and behavior.

Georgia law mandates that any time a teacher or principal identifies a student as a chronic disciplinary problem student, the principal shall
notify by telephone call and by mail the students parent or guardian of the disciplinary problem, invite the parent or guardian to observe the
student in a classroom situation, and request at least one parent or guardian to attend a conference to devise a disciplinary and behavioral
correction plan.

Georgia law also states that before any chronic disciplinary problem student is permitted to return to school from a suspension or expulsion,
the school shall request by telephone call and by mail at least one parent or guardian to schedule and attend a conference to devise a
disciplinary and behavioral correction plan.

The law allows a local board of education to petition the juvenile court to require a parent to attend a school conference. If the court finds that
the parent or guardian has willfully and unreasonably failed to attend the conference requested by the principal pursuant to the laws cited
above, the court may order the parent or guardian to attend such a conference, order the parent or guardian to participate in such programs or
such treatment as the court deems appropriate to improve the students behavior, or both. After notice and opportunity for hearing, the court
may impose a fine, not to exceed $500.00, on a parent or guardian who willfully disobeys an order of the court under this law.

AUTHORITY OF THE PRINCIPAL
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The principal is the designated leader of the school and, in concert with the staff, is responsible for the orderly operation of the school. In
cases of disruptive, disorderly or dangerous conduct not covered in this Code, the principal may undertake corrective measures which he or
she believes to be in the best interest of the student and the school provided any such action does not violate school board policy or
procedures.

AUTHORITY OF THE TEACHER
The Superintendent fully supports the authority of principals and teachers in the school system to remove a student from the classroom
pursuant to provisions of state law.

Each teacher shall comply with the provisions of O.C.G.A. 20-2-737 which requires the filing of a report by a teacher who has knowledge
that a student has exhibited behavior that repeatedly or substantially interferes with the teachers ability to communicate effectively with the
students in his or her class or with the ability of such students classmates to learn, where such behavior is in violation of the student code of
conduct. Such report shall be filed with the principal or designee on the school day of the most recent occurrence of such behavior, shall not
exceed one page, and shall describe the behavior. The principal or designee shall, within one school day after receiving such a report from a
teacher, send to the students parents or guardian a copy of the report and information regarding how the students parents or guardians may
contact the principal or designee.

The principal or designee shall notify in writing the teacher and the students parents or guardian of the discipline or student support services
which has occurred as a result of the teachers report within one school day from the imposition of discipline or the utilization of the support
services. The principal or designee shall make a reasonable attempt to confirm that the students parents or guardian has received the written
notification, including information as to how the parents or guardian may contact the principal or designee.

DEFINITIONS OF DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS:
A. In-School Suspension - Removal of a student from class or classes and assigned to a designated teacher. A student on in-school
suspension is also suspended from all school-sponsored activities. Parents will receive written notification of a students assignment to the ISS
program.
B. Short-Term Suspension - Removal of a student from the school campus and exclusion from all school-sponsored activities for not more
than 10 days by the school administration.
C. Alternative Placement - Transfer from the current educational setting to a different educational setting.
D. Long-Term Suspension - Removal of a student from the school system beyond 10 days up to the remainder of the school year by Student
Discipline Tribunal action.
E. Expulsion - Removal of a student from the school system by Student Discipline Tribunal action.
F. After School Detention - May be assigned by a teacher as a part of that teachers discipline procedure. Twenty-four hours notice will be
given so transportation by parents can be arranged. Teachers must notify parents by phone.

DISCIPLINE - GENERAL
1. All actions requiring Administrative Disposition will be dealt with on an individual basis and dispositions may be increased or decreased
depending upon administrative discretion.
2. Law enforcement or other agencies may be called in at the discretion of the Administration.
3. Any combination of five referrals to the discipline office will result in immediate parent conference at the school with school
administrators; prior conferences may negate the need for this.
4. Each student referred to the discipline office will be given a copy of the referral and disposition. This copy is for the
parent/guardian. It is the students responsibility to take this copy home and notify the parent/guardian immediately.

DISCIPLINE PLAN
Teachers are expected to maintain appropriate conduct in their own classroom. Each teacher follows the Positive Behavior Intervention
Support and appropriate steps should be followed before referring a student to the discipline office. These plans call for individual teachers to
handle day-to day discipline problems and to notify the parent/guardian in writing and/or by phone on or before the 3rd classroom disturbance.

DISCIPLINE AND STUDENT DISPOSITION POLICIES
NOTE: Past discipline records may accelerate the disposition of action taken. Administrative warnings may be used by the Administration in
some cases.
The following sequence of events will alert students and parents/ guardians to the frequency and seriousness of a students behavior:
POINTS
A point system is used to identify inappropriate classroom behaviors. The points range from one (1) to twenty (20), depending upon the
seriousness of the offense. Points start at zero (0) each Monday and are kept on a daily and weekly basis. Each time a student acquires
twenty(20) or more points, within a week, a behavior referral is given. This point system is also used for bus behavior.
BEHAVIOR REFERRALS
When a student accumulates twenty (20) or more points in one (1) week for Class I or II offenses, he/she receives a behavior referral. During
the school day, the principal or designee will call the parent/student to discuss the purpose(s) and consequence(s) for the behavior referral.
Because all conferences with teachers and administrators are scheduled conferences, all parents are strongly encouraged to schedule a
conference when the principal or designee calls. Conferences can be scheduled in the morning from 7:30 a.m. until 7:50 a.m., or in the
afternoon from 3:00 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. with an administrator or teacher. Conferences may also be scheduled during the teachers plan time.
That information may be obtained from the front office. The student will receive a copy of all behavior referrals and it is his/her responsibility
to notify the parent if the administrator cannot reach the parent. Major infractions will be handled on a case-by-case basis and may forego the
teacher behavior referral process. Students with discipline referrals or an excessive accumulation of points may be kept from attending
certain school sponsored events such as pep rallies, assemblies, recognitions, field trips, etc.
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A Collaborative Review can be held at any time.

The First Behavior Referral will result in one (1) day of in-school suspension for each twenty (20) points.
The Second Behavior Referral will result in one (1) to three (3) day(s) of in-school suspension for each twenty (20) points.
The Third Referral will result in one (1) to 3 (3) day(s) of in-school suspension for each twenty (20) points.
The Fourth Referral will result in one (1) day of out of school suspension for the each twenty (20) points. A required
parent/student/principal conference must occur before the student returns to school.
The Fifth Referral will result in one (1) day of out of school suspension for each twenty (20) points. A required
parent/student/teacher/principal conference must occur before the student returns to school. A student behavior contract may be completed at
this conference.
The Sixth Referral will result in a one (1) day out of school suspension for each twenty (20) points. A required parent/student/principal
conference must occur before the student returns to school. A student behavior contract will be completed at this time if not already in place.
It will be reviewed if already established.
The Seventh Referral will result in a two (2) day out of school suspension for each twenty (20) points. A required parent/student/principal
conference must occur before the student returns to school. The student behavior contract will be reviewed.
The Eighth Referral will result in a two (2) day out of school suspension for each twenty (20) points. A required parent/student/principal
conference must occur before the student returns to school. A chronic disruption letter will be imposed at this point.
The Ninth Referral will result in a three (3) day out of school suspension for each twenty (20) points. A required
parent/student/teacher/principal conference must occur before the student returns to school. The chronic disruption letter will be reviewed at
this conference.
The Tenth Referral will result in an out of school suspension pending the outcome of the Collaborative Review or Tribunal.
CLASSIFICATION OF VIOLATIONS

Violations of the Code are divided into three classes: Class I Minor, Class II Major, and Class III Terminal. Each classification is
followed by a disciplinary procedure to be followed by the principal or his/her designee.
In the following classes of violations and disciplinary procedures , it is understood that the student will be provided with due process before
any disciplinary action is taken.

CLASS I Minor Offense
A. Distraction of other studentsany behavior that alters the teaching process of the classroom or educational activity.
B. Non-conformity to dress code. Procedures will be followed as outlined in Dress Code.
C. Minor misbehavior on a school bus.
D. Inappropriate public display of affection
E. Eating or drinking in unauthorized areas.
F. Locker misuse or abuse.
G. Littering of school property.
* H. Possession of radios, tape players, CD players, cards, pagers, cameras, etc.
I. Excessive tardiesProcedures will be followed as outlined under Tardies.
J. Cheating.
K. Any unauthorized use of school computers including, but not limited to changing computer settings, accessing non-approved
internet sites, sending, or displaying offensive messages or pictures, employing the network for commercial purposes.
L. Any violation which the principal may deem reasonable to fall within this category after consideration of extenuating
circumstances.
* These items will be confiscated and secured in the vault for parental pick up only.

CLASS II Major Offense
A. Illegal organizationsany attempt to use the school day for activities that are not school related or school sponsored.
*B. Gamblingany participation in games of chance for money and/or other things of value.
C. Disrespect/Defiance of School Board employees authorityany verbal or non-verbal refusal to comply with a lawful
direction or order of a School Board employee.
D. Possession or use of tobacco products on campuspossession on the person, in the locker, or in the effects of a student.
E. Fightingany physical conflict between two or more individuals. Fighting will automatically result in 3 days of out-of-school
suspension and a hearing with the administration. 2
nd
fighting offense will result in 5 days out-of-school suspension; 3
rd
fighting
offense will result in referral to tribunal.
*F. Vandalismintentional and deliberate action resulting in injury of damage of less than $50 to public property or the real or
personal property of another.
G. Stealing, larceny, petty theftthe intentional unlawful taking or carrying away of property valued at less than $25 belonging
to or in the possession or custody of another.
*H. Possession of stolen property with the knowledge that it is stolen.
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*I. Threats, extortionverbal or written or printed communication maliciously threatening an injury to the person, property or
reputation of another with the intent to extort money or take advantage of any act or refrain from doing any act against his/her will.
*J. Trespassingwillfully entering or remaining in any school property without being authorized , licensed, or invited; or after
having been authorized, licensed, or invited, refusing to depart when warned by an authorized person to do so.
K. Possessing and/or igniting fireworks, firecrackers, or stink bombs.
*L. Unjustified activation of a fire alarm system or fire extinguisher.
M. Harassment or obscene behavior (verbal, written, gesture) toward another person including, but not limited to, physical contact
of another student/faculty member.
N. Possession of obscene and/or pornographic materials.
O. Directing obscene or profane language to a School Board employee.
1
st
offense 3 days out-of-school suspension; 2
nd
offense 5 days out-of-school suspension; 3
rd
offense Referral to tribunal.
P. Leaving class or campus without written permission.
Q. Refusal to give name or intentionally giving false information to authorized person. This includes false absence excuses or
passes.
R. Truancydefined as a students unexcused absence from a class or from school without the knowledge or consent of the
school administration.
S. Repeated violations of dress code after warning.
T. Any other violation which the principal may deem reasonable to fall within this category after consideration of extenuating
circumstances.
U. Quarreling, harassment, or intimidation of studentsthe intentional unlawful threat by word to do violence to another student.
* Indicates the offense which may be reported to the designated law enforcement agency using the appropriate administrative procedure.

CLASS III Serious / Terminal
A. The use, possession, or sale of any narcotics, illegal drugs, other controlled substances or alcoholic beverages on campus or during a
school-sponsored function or off-campus if the off-campus conduct has a direct and immediate effect on the discipline or general welfare of
the school.
B. Arson the willful and malicious burning of any part of School Board property.
C. Excessive referrals.
D. Robberythe taking of money or other property which may be the subject of larceny from the person or custody of another by force,
violence, assault, or by instilling the fear of same.
E. Stealing, larceny, grand theftthe intentional unlawful taking and/or carrying away of property valued at $25 or more belonging to or in
the possession or custody of another.
F. Burglary of school propertyentering or remaining in a structure or conveyance with the intent to commit an offense therein during the
hours of the premises are closed to the public.
G. Criminal mischiefwillful and malicious injury or damages at or in the excess of $50 to public property or to real or personal property
belonging to another.
H. Possession of firearmsany firearm (including a starter gun) which will, or is designated to, or may be readily converted to expel a
projectile.
I. Unauthorized discharge of a pistol, rifle, shotgun, airgun or any device, or any other weapon, instrument, or object.
J. Possession of weaponinstrument as defined in AL Act 94-or tear gas gun, knife, chemical weapon or device, or any other instrument or
object to be used as a weapon.
K. Bomb threatsany such communication which has the effect of interrupting the educational environment.
L. Explosionspossessing, preparing or igniting on School Board property explosives likely to cause bodily injury or property damage.
M. Sexual actsacts of a sexual nature including, but not limited to battery, intercourse, attempted rape or rape.
N. Aggravated batteryintentionally causing great bodily harm, disability or permanent disfigurement, or the use of a deadly weapon.
O. Inciting or participating in a major student disorderleading, encouraging or assisting in major disruptions which result in destruction or
damage of private or public property or personal injury to participants or others.
P. Indecent exposure.
Q. Assaults or threats directed toward a school board employee or students.
R. Dispensing, applying, or threatening to spread a bodily fluid or substance.
S. Possession of a knife on school campus.
T. Any other offense which the principal may deem reasonable to fall within this category.
U. Written or verbal proposition to engage in sexual acts.

DISCIPLINARY ACTION FOR CLASS III OFFENSES
1. Suspension pending a hearing conducted by the principal with the student
and parent or guardian. Possible disciplinary actions may include: ISS,
Alternative School placement, out-of-school suspension for up to ten (10)
days, recommendation for expulsion.
2. Notification of the Superintendent of the incident.
3. Appropriate law enforcement officials shall be notified as provided by state
law. If any criminal charge is warranted arising from the conduct, the
principal is authorized to sign the appropriate warrant.

NOTE: WHERE THERE ARE CONFLICTS BETWEEN LOCAL SCHOOL HANDBOOKS AND PROCEDURES,
THESE POLICIES WILL GOVERN.

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OUT-OF-SCHOOL SUSPENSIONS
Out-of-school suspensions are the result of serious or continuous violation of school behavior policies. Students suspended from school are
counted absent for the number of days for which they are suspended. Students are not permitted on any school campus at any time during a
suspension. Students suspended from school are not allowed to attend any school or social function connected with the Emanuel
County School System, whether it is on or off campus. For example, if a student is suspended from Swainsboro High School, he/she
cannot attend football games at any school. Students may be suspended or removed from school during the school day if behaviors are out
of control, severely disruptive, or of a threatening nature. When actions warrant, a parent or guardian may be contacted and required to come
to school to pick up the student or local law enforcement may be contacted to remove a student from school property. If a parent or guardian
cannot be reached, the student may be held by a local law enforcement agency until a parent or guardian can be reached. A re-entry
conference must be held with the principal at the end of the suspension in order for the student to continue with their normal schedule of
classes.
Formal charges or complaints may be filed with the local law enforcement agency on any student involved in disruption, bullying, fighting, or
threatening a teacher or administrator.
PBIS REWARDS
Students who exhibit positive behaviors of being responsible, being respectful, and being safe will be rewarded periodically for their
successes. This includes pep rallies, assemblies, programs, parties and other recognitions. Students with 5 or less behavior points will be
recognized every 2 to 3 weeks with a PBIS recognition.

DEFINITIONS
EXPULSIONRemoval of a student from the school system by Student Discipline Tribunal action.
STUDENT SUPPORT TEAMAn interdisciplinary group which implements procedures for any student experiencing problems in school.
The SST provides services through the regular education program including instructional planning and consultation that includes those
individuals responsible for the educational well being of the student. forth by the Board of Education.
WEAPONSThe term weapon means and includes any pistol, revolver, or any weapon designed or intended to propel a missile of any
kind, or any dirk, bowie knife, switchblade knife, ballistic knife, any other knife having a blade of three or more inches, straight-edge razor,
spring stick, metal knucks, blackjack, or any flailing instrument consisting of two or more rigid parts connected in such a manner to allow
them to swing freely, which may be known as a nun chahka, nun chuck, nunchaku, shuriken, or fighting chain, or any disc, of whatever
configuration, having at least two points or pointed blades which is designed to be thrown or propelled and which may be known as a
throwing star or oriental dart, or any weapon of likekind and any stun gun or taser as defined in subsection (a) of Code 16-11-106.
DANGEROUS INSTRUMENTSThe term dangerous instrument means and includes any knife or other object that reasonably can be
considered a weapon.
SIMPLE ASSAULTTo attempt or commit a violent injury to another person.
SIMPLE BATTERYIntentionally making physical contact of an insulting and provoking nature.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
1. Students under suspension are not allowed to make up any academic work. This applies to all offenses listed in this brochure. Students
under suspension or expulsion are not allowed on school campus or at school functions.
2. Students are to notify an administrator or staff member when illegal items are found in the school building or on the school campus.
Students are advised not to pick up or handle illegal items.
3. Due to immaturity of students, administrators may use discretion in determining and resolving fights, classroom disturbances, and obscene
words and gestures.
4. School administrators and/or their designated representatives possess the authority to conduct a reasonable search of students, their
possessions, their lockers, and their automobiles when on school property. The administrator is required to have only reasonable suspicion to
conduct such searches.

EMANUEL COUNTY BOARD POLICY Descriptor Code: JCAC
Harassment Effective: February 15, 2005

It is the policy of this school district to prohibit any act of harassment of students or employees by other students or employees based upon
race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age or disability at all times and during all occasions while at school, in the workplace or at any
school event or activity. Any such act by a student or employee shall result in prompt and appropriate discipline, including the possible
termination of employment or suspension or expulsion of the student.

Sexual harassment may include conduct or speech which entails unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, taunts, threats,
comments of a vulgar or demeaning nature, demands or physical contact which creates a hostile environment for a student or employee.
There may be other speech or conduct which employees or students experience as inappropriate or illegal harassment which should also be
reported; harassment can take many forms and it is not possible to itemize every aspect of the harassment forbidden by this policy.

Any student, employee, applicant for employment, parent or other individual who believes he or she has been subjected to harassment or
discrimination by other students or employees of the school district as prohibited by this policy should promptly report the same to the
principal of their school or to the appropriate coordinator designated in policy GAAA, who will implement the boards discriminatory
complaints procedures as specified in that policy. Students may also report harassment or discrimination to their school counselor or any
administrator. Students and employees will not be subjected to retaliation for reporting such harassment or discrimination. If at any point in
the investigation of reported sexual harassment of a student, the coordinator or designee determines that the reported harassment should more
properly be termed abuse, the reported incident or situation shall be referred pursuant to the established protocol for child abuse investigation.

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It is the duty of all employees to promptly report harassment forbidden by this policy. All supervisors will instruct their subordinates as to the
content of this policy and, through appropriate staff development, enlighten employees as to the varied forms or expression of prohibited
harassment. The principals of all schools shall ensure that students and parents are informed through student handbooks and verbally that
such harassment is strictly forbidden, how it is to be reported and the consequences for violating this policy.

ADOPTED: August 9, 1993
REVISED: February 14, 2005
CROSS-REFERENCE: GAEB -- Harassment

Emanuel County Board Policy

Descriptor Code:JCDAG
Bullying

The Emanuel County Board of Education believes that all students can learn better in a safe school environment. Behavior that infringes
on the safety of students will not be tolerated. Bullying, as the term is defined in Georgia law, of a student by another student is strictly
prohibited. Such prohibition shall be included in the Student Code of Conduct for all school within the school system.

Bullying is defined as follows: An act which occurs on school property, on school vehicles, at designated school bus stops, or at school
related functions or activities, or by use of data or software that is accessed through a computer, computer system, computer network, or
other electronic technology of a local school system, that is:

1. Any willful attempt or threat to inflict injury on another person, when accompanied by an apparent present ability to do so;

2. Any intentional display of force such as would give the victim reason to fear or expect immediate bodily harm; or

3. Any intentional written, verbal, or physical act, which a reasonable person would perceive as being intended to threaten, harass, or
intimidate, that:

a. Causes another person substantial physical harm within the meaning of Code Section 16-5-23.1 or visible bodily harm as such
term is defined in Code Section 16-5-23.1;

b. Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student's education;

c. Is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it creates an intimidating or threatening educational environment; or

d. Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the school.

Procedures may be developed at each school encouraging a teacher or other school employee, student, parent, guardian, or other person
who has control or charge of a student, to either anonymously or in the persons name, at the persons option, report or otherwise provide
information on bullying activity. Any teacher or other school employee who, in the exercise of his or her personal judgment and
discretion, believes he or she has reliable information that would lead a reasonable person to suspect that someone is a target of bullying is
encouraged to immediately report it to the school principal. Any report will be appropriately investigated by the administration based on
the nature of the complaint in a timely manner to determine whether bullying has occurred, whether there are other procedures related to
illegal harassment or discrimination that should be implemented and what other steps should be taken. Any report of retaliati on for
reporting bullying will also be investigated and addressed as called for in this policy and in accordance with school procedures.

Acts of bullying shall be punished by a range of consequences through the progressive discipline process, as stated in the Code of
Conduct. However, upon a finding by the disciplinary hearing officer, panel or tribunal that a student in grades 6-12 has committed the
offense of bullying for the third time in a school year, the student shall be assigned to an alternative educational program.

Upon a finding by a school administrator that a student has committed an act of bullying or is a victim of bullying, the administrator or
designee shall notify the parent, guardian, or other person having control or charge of the student verbally, including telephone, or through
written notice, which may be done electronically.

Students and parents will be notified of the prohibition against bullying and the penalties for violating the prohibition by posting
information at each school and by including such information in the student/parent handbooks.

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BOOK BAGS/SPORTS BAGS/POCKETBOOKS/PURSES
Students may bring bags to school. Book bags are to be stored in lockers during the school day and are not to be taken to classrooms. Book
bags, which are constructed, of solid and/or opaque materials and rolling book bags will not be allowed in the building at any time. Book bags
of any kind will not be allowed on campus during the last week of school. Pocketbooks/Purses are to be stored in student lockers and are not
to be taken to classrooms. Personal hygiene items may be accessed from a locker when needed with permission of the teacher. Sports bags are
not permitted in school unless they are for a school sponsored sporting event. These bags will be stored in the place designated by the coach
or sponsor.

BOOKS
Textbooks are furnished free to all public school students. The Media Center will keep a record of the book number and condition of the book
issued to students. Each student is responsible for damages or loss of any books. Report cards will not be issued to any student who owes for
lost or damaged books.

BUILDING HOURS
The building will be opened at 7:30 A.M. and will be closed at 3:45 P.M. each school day. Any student or group of students remaining in the
building after 3:45 P.M. must be supervised by a faculty member. Custodial/maintenance personnel cannot assume this responsibility.

BUS
The Transportation Department of the Central Office will assign students buses. Written notice from a parent must
be presented to the office for a child to leave school any way other than the assigned bus.

Bus Discipline Guidelines

Riding the bus is a privilege and students can be removed at any time for disruptive and unsatisfactory
conduct. If bus rules are broken, the student will be subject to the same disciplinary action that would be
taken if the behavior had happened on school grounds. All pupils being transported are under the authority of
the bus driver and must obey his/her requests.

All school rules, as described in the school handbook, apply to students riding the bus. The following is a list of
general expectations for our students:

1. Students are prohibited from having toys, animals, glass objects, radios and electronic devices (cell
phones, tape/disc players, radios, pagers, or objects that might interfere with the bus drivers operation of
the bus or the communication system) in their possession when riding the school bus.
2. Students are to be seated at all times while the bus is in motion! At no time should students have head,
hands, arms or feet outside of the bus.
3. Students may talk at a level that is acceptable for the driver to be able to hear while driving.
4. Abusive or obscene language will not be tolerated! Bus drivers are to report any student who uses
profanity in conversation with other students or to a driver.
5. Students shall not cause or attempt to cause physical injury, threaten bodily harm, or behave in such a
way as could reasonably cause physical injury to a school employee or other students!
6. Students shall not cause or attempt to cause damage to buses or school property. Cost of any damages
will be payable by the students and parent.
7. Use or possession of alcoholic beverages, drugs, and tobacco are forbidden. Use or possession of weapons,
explosives or other objects (ball bats) which can endanger fellow passengers is forbidden.
8. Eating and/or drinking on buses is forbidden.
9. Throwing objects from the buses is forbidden.
10. Due to limited space, large band instruments and flag corp equipment are prohibited on the bus.
11. Book bags will need to be made of clear or mesh material.
12. Students should be at the bus stop on time, load quickly and in an orderly manner. After arriving at their
stop, students are to unload in an orderly manner and move away from their bus.
13. Students are to behave in an orderly manner at all times while on the bus. Students should be aware that
they are being videotaped while riding the bus to promote and evaluate safety procedures and eliminate
concerns.

In addition to the above rules, the following Code of Conduct has been adopted into the bus discipline procedure.

A. Students shall be prohibited from acts of physical violence as defined in Code Section 20-2-751.6, bullying
as defined in Code Section 20-2-751.4, physical assault or battery of other persons on the school bus,
verbal assault of other persons on the bus, disrespectful conduct toward the school bus driver or other
persons on the school bus, and other unruly behavior.
B. Students shall be prohibited from using any electronic devices during the operation of a school bus,
including but not limited to, cell phones; pagers; audible radios, tape or compact disc players; or any other
electronic device in a manner that might interfere with the school bus communications equipment or the
school bus drivers operation of the school bus.
C. Students shall be prohibited from using mirrors, lasers, flash cameras, or any other lights or reflective
devices in a manner that might interfere with the school bus drivers operation of the school bus.

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If a student is found to have engaged in bullying or in physical assault or battery of another person on a school
bus, the parent or guardian of the student shall be required to participate in a meeting with appropriate school
officials to form a school bus behavior contract for the student. The contract may include, but is not limited to,
assigned seating, ongoing parental involvement, and suspension from riding the bus or other disciplinary
consequences.

Students are expected to obey bus rules while waiting for and riding the bus. Students who do not meet
these expectations will be referred to the appropriate school administrator.

Examples of behavior that will result in a referral to an administrator are:

Minor Offenses
not at bus stop on time pushing others
making unnecessary noises using profanity
eating, drinking, or chewing gum writing on bus or seats
tripping others rude to driver
littering on the bus not following directions
yelling out of a window throwing objects on or off the bus
hanging out of a window harassing others
out of seat, standing in aisle use of obscene gestures

Minor Offense Consequences
First Violation Warning
Second Violation Parent Conference Required
Third Violation 3 Day Bus Suspension
Fourth Violation 5 Day Bus Suspension
Fifth Violation Bus Suspension up to remainder of the
year

Major Offenses
spitting on others biting others
fighting on bus destruction of property
tobacco/alcohol/drugs opening emergency exits
sex acts and/or sexual touching extortion
threatening/physical contact with driver weapons

Major Offense Consequences
First Violation Parent Conferences and 3 to 5 day Bus
Suspension
Second Violation 6 to 10 Day Bus Suspension
Third Violation Bus Suspension up to the remainder of
the year

An administrator may follow the guidelines shown below in imposing discipline for bus violations and may also
impose more severe penalties at his/her discretion based upon the situation or evidence presented, such as
short or long-termed suspension from the bus.

If you have any questions or concerns relative to transportation, please feel free to discuss them with your
driver. You may also discuss them with your childs principal or the transportation supervisor. We want to
ensure that your child arrives at school and returns home safely. We need your support, cooperation and
assistance.
Remember, riding the bus is a privilege. It is not a right.

CAFETERIA
Nutritional meals will be available daily at Swainsboro Middle School. Breakfast will be served each school day, beginning at
7:30 A.M. Lunch will be served daily per individual grade schedules. Students desiring breakfast should report to the cafeteria immediately
upon arrival at school. Eating breakfast is not an excuse to be late to homeroom. Food is not to be brought to students from off campus during
school hours.

PAYING FOR MEALS
Student meals will remain under the USDA Provision 2 pricing option for the 2012-2013 school year. Under Provision 2, students enrolled in
Emanuel County Schools will be served one breakfast and/or one lunch per day at no charge. Prices for student second meals, and meals
served to adults and visitors (including children) are $2.00 for breakfast and $3.00 for lunch. No extra food/beverage will be charged to the
student account; all purchases must be made with cash.

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CELL PHONES
Cell phones and cell phone accessories are only allowed at school during the school day for academic purposes as directed by school
personnel. Phones should be off or muted during school hours. The school day begins when a student is picked up by a bus or dropped off
by a parent and ends when a child is dropped of by a bus or picked up by a parent. Confiscated cell phones will be returned after school hours
and only to a parent named on the student information sheet.
Consequences for cell phone use:
1
st
offense Cell phone confiscated for 2 days
(example: Monday returned Wednesday
Friday returned Tuesday)
2
nd
offense Cell phone confiscated for 5 school days.
3
rd
offense Cell phone confiscated for 5 school days and 2 days OSS
4
th
offense Cell phone confiscated for remainder of school year and 5 days OSS.
Swainsboro Middle School is NOT responsible for the theft, damage, or loss of cell phones or accessories.
The school will not conduct investigations into these matters. Theft is a crime of opportunity. Students are directed not to leave their
phone or other electronic devices unattended.

COMPLAINTS/GRIEVANCES
Students and/or parents who have a complaint about a school matter have an orderly process for consideration of the complaint and resolving
the complaint. The opportunity shall be provided for the student and/or parent to discuss the matter with the appropriate teacher or staff
member. If the matter is then unresolved, it may be brought to the attention of an administrator. If still unresolved, the matter may be brought
to the attention of the superintendent and then presented in writing to the Board of Education, if necessary.

CONFERENCES
The faculty of Swainsboro Middle School welcomes the opportunity to engage in conferences with parents and students to discuss classroom
performance, behavior, or any other school-related concerns. Any parent or student who desires to have a conference should contact the school
office at 478-237-8047 to request an appointment. A conference will be arranged with the appropriate person(s) at a time that will not interfere
with the normal instructional program. Teachers are also encouraged to contact parents for conferences about individual student academic
performance or behavior.

COUNSELING/GUIDANCE
The counseling staff provides an array of services, which include individual student counseling dealing with personal concerns and
advisement. Counselors and/or administrators are available to students to help with any problems. Those staff members strive to meet the
needs of all students, assisting parents, teachers, and students for the overall improvement of our school environment. Students may seek
assistance from any counselor or administrator at any time and are encouraged to do so, especially when conflict or disagreement develops
with another student that could lead to a confrontation. The counseling program offers te following counseling services:
a) Individual counseling the counselor works one on one with the student and assists the students in problem identification, in exploring
solutions and consequences, and in establishing a positive plan for action for effectively dealing with the problem. The number of sessions
will vary according to the problem, from a single session to as many as 2 sessions per week.
b) Small group counseling the counselor works with two or more students simultaneously. Academic difficulties, achievement, motivation,
personal loss, peer and social relationships, and substance abuse are examples of possible problem areas discussed in small group counseling.
Four to six sessions are typical, but the number of sessions will vary depending on the problem.
c) Classroom Guidance the counselor meets with an entire class and works with the classroom teacher in providing group guidance
activities. Classroom guidance sessions are usually scheduled for 20 to 40 minutes. Topics covered through classroom guidance are based
upon results of the counseling departments needs assessment instrument.

CURRICULUM
All Swainsboro Middle School students will enroll in courses that are designed to promote academic proficiency is reading, language arts,
mathematics, science, and social studies (Eighth grade students will take Georgia Studies as prescribed by state law). The Connections classes
offered are Chorus, Business and Computer Science, Family and Consumer Science, General Music, Math and Reading Skills, Health,
Engineering and Technology, and Career Connections. These classes are on a rotating nine-week basis and meet daily. Students will be
enrolled in Physical Education for one semester. Band students are enrolled in the program for the school year.

CUSTODY OF STUDENTS
The courts have specified that custody is not to be settled at school; therefore, it is the responsibility of each childs legal custodian to
maintain on file appropriate documentation, which identifies the legal custodian.

DETENTION HALL
Detention Hall is scheduled for Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday afternoons from 3:15 P.M. until 4:00 P.M. Any student assigned
detention is expected to be on time. Students who are tardy (3:20) to detention or who leave early will not get credit for that day. No student
will be excused from serving detention because of any other school activity. Any student who fails to report for detention will be referred for
administrative action. Students will not be allowed to go to the restroom during detention hall. Sleeping, disruptive behavior, talking, chewing
gum, food and/or drinks, non-assigned work, etc., will be reported to the office the next school day. Students will be given 24 hours notice
prior to the beginning date so that parents can arrange special transportation. Students are to be picked up no later than 4:15. Students can be
assigned ADH no more than 15 days per semester. Teachers should use detention hall assignments as part of their discipline plan.

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DRESS CODE
All students are expected to be neat, clean, and appropriately dressed for school and school activities. The information below will serve as a
guide for school dress. Students should wear clothing according to the way they are designed.

It is the duty of each teacher to ensure that the dress code is enforced.
It is the responsibility of the parent to ensure that the dress code is observed.
It is the responsibility of each student to be knowledgeable of and comply with SMS dress code policy.
It is the final decision of the administration to ensure that the dress code is adhered to strictly.
Dress Code violations can result in disciplinary actions.

General Guidelines:
A student should not dress, wear, or use emblems, insignias, badges, or symbols which will distract the attention of other students in
the classroom, cause disruption or interfere with the operation of the school, or violate health and safety standards of the school.
No clothing should be worn which displays messages that are:
Inappropriate Vulgar Sexually suggestive
Offensive Lewd Contains alcohol, tobacco, or drug advertisements
Distracting Indecent Advocates criminal activity
Profane
Clothing which can be considered as gang/sorority/fraternity related up to and including band aids not covering an injury, stickers,
one pants leg rolled up, gloves, etc. are not to be worn.
Combs, picks, brushes, curlers, or any other items which could be distracting should not be worn. Hairstyles that interfere with
others or cause distractions should not be worn.
There should be no excessive visable body piercings.

1. Shorts, Jeans, Slacks, Dresses, etc.
Pants are to be worn at or above the waist (if you choose to wear shorts, leggings, tights, etc. under a pair of jeans,
these are then considered undergarments and should not be seen)
Jeans, pants, shorts, etc. with holes above the knee are not permitted even when leggings and tights are worn underneath
No see-through pants or holes exposing skin are allowed
If pants are fitted properly at or above the waist, a belt is not required
Sagging is strictly prohibited
Excessive belts must be tucked into belt loops
Short shorts, bicycle shorts, and swim trunks are not permitted
If gym shorts are worn, the length of the shorts must be to the tip of the longest finger or longer
Shorts, dresses, and skirts should be properly fitted and worn to the top of knee
Slits in clothing should be no higher than the point where the longest extended finger ends when the student is standing
up straight
Pajama attire is not allowed in school
2. Leggings, Tights, Stirrup Pants
Clothing which is form fitting is not allowed, this include jeggins.
Leggings and/or tights can be worn under a dress/skirt if dress/skirt meets appropriate garment length specified in item 1
3. Shirts, Blouses
Halter tops, tube tops, bare-midriff outfits, spaghetti straps, boys and girls tank-tops, see-through mesh, sheer, crochet
tops, sun dresses without jackets, and low cut body shirts are not allowed
Sleeveless shirts cut low under the arms should be worn with a T-shirt underneath
Shirts and blouses do not have to be tucked in unless they are oversized and hang more than three inches
Proper undergarments must be worn and covered at all times so that no part of the undergarment can be seen
Shirts and dresses must cover both shoulders
Cleavage must not show
4. Shoes
Shoes must be worn at all times
Bedroom shoes are not allowed
5. Hats, Caps, Sweatbands, Sun Glasses, do rags, bandannas, etc.
No head coverings should be worn in the building unless a special day has been designated for them
Hooded garments may be worn as long as hoods are not worn indoors
Students may not wear earbuds or earphones in the building
DISTURBANCE DEVICES
Ipods, MP3 players, laser lights/pointers, tech decks, electronic games, dice, electronic toys (including electronic pets), playing cards, sports
cards, slambooks, stink bombs, cigarette lighters, matches, metal fishhooks, chains, whistles, whistle straps, turkey calls, etc. should not be
brought to school. Such items will be confiscated by the administration and released only to parents/guardians.

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EARLY DISMISSAL
Parents are requested to not pick up/sign out students prior to the end of the school day unless it is absolutely necessary to do so. Should it be
necessary for a student to leave school during the school day, a written excuse from the parent/legal guardian should be taken to the office at
the beginning of the school day; the excuse should identify the reason for the early dismissal. Three early dismissals will equal the equivalent
of one absence. Students are not to leave school with any person unless that person has first signed out the student from school. Only the
custodial parent or legal guardian may grant permission for a student to be signed out of school. It is the responsibility of each legal
custodian/custodial parent to provide Swainsboro Middle School with a list of persons who are eligible to sign out students from school.

EMPLOYMENT/EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES STATEMENT
The Emanuel County Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age or
handicap/disability in its educational programs, activities or employment practices. Inquiries concerning our application of Title VI, Title IX,
Title II, Perkins Act, Section 504, ADA and /or Gender Equity in Sports to the policies and practices of the Emanuel County School System
may be addressed to:
Tammy Wilkes
Emanuel County Board of Education
P.O. Box 130
201 North Main Street
Swainsboro, Georgia 30401
478-237-6674
The Emanuel County Board of Education does not discriminate on the basis of sex, age, race, color, religion, national origin or disability in its
educational programs, activities, or employment practices.

FAMILY EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS AND PRIVACY ACT (FERPA)
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), a Federal law, requires that Emanuel County Schools, with certain exceptions,
obtain your written consent prior to the disclosure of personally identifiable information from your childs education records. However,
Emanuel County Schools may disclose appropriately designated directory information without written consent, unless you have advised the
District to the contrary in accordance with the District procedures. The primary purpose of directory information is to allow the Emanuel
County Schools to include this type of information from your childs education records in certain school publications. Examples include:
A playbill, showing your students role in a drama production;
The annual yearbook;
Honor roll or other recognition lists;
Graduation programs; and
Sports activity sheets, such as for wrestling, showing weight and height of team members.
Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of privacy if released, can also be
disclosed to outside organizations without a parents prior written consent. Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies
that manufacture class rings or publish yearbooks. In additions, two federal laws require local education agencies (LEAs) receiving assistance
under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA) to provide military recruiters, upon request, with three directory
information categories names, addresses and telephone listings unless parents have advised the LEA that they do not want their students
information disclosed without their prior written consent.
If you do not want Emanuel County Schools to disclose directory information from your childs education records without your prior written
consent, you must notify the District in writing within the first ten days of the school term. Emanuel County Schools has designated the
following information as directory information: (NOTE: An LEA may, but does not have to, include all the information listed below.)
Students name
Address
Telephone listing
Electronic mail address
Photograph
Date and place of birth
Major field of study
Dates of attendance
Grade level
Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
Weight and height of members of athletic teams
Degrees, honors, and awards received
The most recent educational agency or institution attended

FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION
In compliance with Senate Bill 352, Emanuel County Schools will be providing instruction in family life education in grades K-12 through
classroom instruction and presentations by the school counselor(s). Age appropriate instruction may include handling peer pressure,
promotion of high self-esteem, local community values, AIDS education and abstinence from sexual activity. A copy of your childs course
objectives will be sent home at the beginning of the school year. Parents/Guardians may elect, in writing, that their child not receive the
course of study. If you have any questions about the instruction your child may be receiving, you may contact the school principal.

FIELD TRIPS
Educational field trips provide outside learning experiences and will be scheduled by teachers as part of certain classes or activities. The
student is required to bring a signed parental consent form before participating in the field trip activity. Certain fees may be required for field
trips. All school rules are in effect for students on field trips. A students behavior/discipline record could jeopardize his/her participation in
field trip activities as determined by the instructional team or school administration. Parents are not allowed to accompany students on field
trips.

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FIGHTING
Fighting will not be tolerated on this campus or on the school bus. Fighting is defined as any act of engaging in physical contact for the
purpose of inflicting harm on the other person. Discipline will be imposed as outlined under the Discipline Policy. Students who instigate
fights but are not actively involved (that is, students who carry rumors, put others up to fighting, carrying information back and forth between
other individuals who subsequently fight) submit themselves to the same penalties as those who are involved.

504 INFORMATION
1. What is 504?
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973/Public law 93-112 is a comprehensive law that addresses the rights of handicapped persons
(hereafter referred to as persons with disabilities except when quoting the law) and applies to all agencies receiving federal financial
assistance. Eliminating barriers to education programs and services, increasing building accessibility, and establishing equitable employment
practices are thoroughly and specifically addressed in Section 504 regulations. Section 504 states: No otherwise qualified handicapped
individual shall, solely by reason of his/her handicap, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to
discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. The regulation makes it clear that the failure to provide a
free appropriate public education to a student with disabilities covered by Section 504 is discrimination which violates the Act.
2. Who is responsible for the enforcement and investigation of compliance with Section 504?
The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) is responsible for the enforcement and investigation of compliance with Section 504. Federal financial
assistance to a local school district is contingent on compliance with Section 504 and other civil rights laws. OCR may determine that federal
funds should be withheld from local school systems that are not in compliance with civil rights legislation.
For Emanuel County Schools, Dr. Karen Ross, the Director of Student Services is the Student Program Accessibility/Section 504 and ADA
Coordinator.

3. Who is eligible for 504?
In 1973, when the Rehabilitation Act was passed, "handicap" was the acceptable term for a mental or physical impairment. Today, the term
"disability" is preferred and promoted. Under the provisions of Section 504, either term refers to a person who (1) has a physical or mental
impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities; (2) has a record of such an impairment; or (3) is regarded as having
such an impairment. To qualify for protection under the law, the individual must have a physical of mental impairment that substantially
limits a major life activity such as caring for one self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, or
working. Examples include Tourettes Syndrome, epilepsy, sickle-cell anemia, asthma, or a serious long-term illness or injury, if there is a
resulting impact on a major life activity such as learning.
4. How are students with Attention Deficit Disorder or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder handled?
When a school is informed that a student has Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), the
school is required to utilize appropriate educational strategies. These strategies can be documented through the use of the Response to
Intervention (RTI) model. RTI is a model in which a student with academic or behavioral difficulties is provided one or more research based
interventions. The student's progress is monitored frequently to evaluate whether or not interventions are sufficient to assist the student in
making progress. If, after a determined period of time, the student does not progress in spite of the interventions, referral to a 504 team to
determine eligibility will be made.
For example, if behavior is the manifestation of the condition, then the successful development of a behavior management plan meets the
school's obligations under the federal law. If the student is manifesting attention problems, which are affecting learning, the school can
develop strategies to address those within the regular classroom. In cases in which the ADD results in behavior or attention problems which
are so severe that they cannot be accommodated within the regular classroom, Section 504 requires the school to provide special services
which will enable the student to benefit from an educational program. Students with ADD or ADHD might qualify under the Individuals
with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) as a student suffering from another health impairment (OHI). The school should determine if a
referral to special education for consideration of OHI eligibility is appropriate.
5. Who determines if a student is eligible for 504?
Referrals begin at the local school level and are made to the 504 Contact Person. After the RTI process has been followed and a
determination is made that the student is unable to progress, then the 504 team is convened to determine whether the student is eligible of a
504 accommodation plan.
6. How does the Student Support Team determine if a student is 504 eligible?
To qualify for protection under Section 504, the individual must have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life
activity such as caring for one's self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning or working. Three
questions to consider in determining whether a person's impairment substantially limits one or more major life activities: (1) What is the
nature and severity of the impairment? (2) How long will it last or is expected to last? (3) What is its permanent or long-term impact or
expected impact? Temporary, non-chronic impairments that do not last for a long time and which have little or no long-term impact usually
are not considered to be disabilities.
7. What is a Section 504 Plan?
A Section 504 Plan is an educational plan describing what accommodations, special services, or related aids and services will be provided to
meet the individual educational needs of the eligible student as adequately as the needs of nondisabled students are met. Although a written
plan is not required by federal regulations, it is advised. It makes good sense that the plan be in writing. Parents should be notified and a
copy of parental rights provided to them. A format for a plan is on a printable page at the end of this information.
8. What are a parent's rights under Section 504?
They are not the same nor as extensive as those provided under IDEA. They are listed on a printable page here and must be made available

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to parents of children who have a 504 plan.

9. What are the guidelines for special test accommodations under Section 504?
A Section 504 Plan must be on file for each student for whom modifications in standardized testing will be made. The plan should outline
instructional modifications appropriate for the student during regular classroom instruction. Testing modifications consistent with these
instructional modifications should also be outlined in the plan. It is not appropriate to make testing modifications unless the appropriate
documentation is on file.
10. What are some examples of special services in the classroom and facility?
Below are samples in the areas of communication, organization/management, alternative teaching strategies, and student precautions.

Special Services in the Classroom and Facility
As individual students are identified, the classroom teacher may need specific training in the area of the identified disability (for example,
training from a school nurse on danger signs of an impending asthma attack, or training from a physical therapist on correct positioning of a
student who uses a wheelchair). The following classroom/facility special or related aids and services are examples of ways in which students
with disabilities may be successfully assisted within the regular education environment.
I. Communication
A. There may be a need to modify parent/student/teacher communications. For example:
develop a daily/weekly journal
develop parent/student/school contacts
schedule periodic parent/teacher meetings
provide parents with duplicate sets of texts
B. There may be a need to modify staff communications. For example:
identify resource staff
network with other staff
schedule building team meetings
maintain on-going communication with building principal
C. There may be a need to modify school/community agency communication. For example, with parent consent:
identify and communicate with appropriate agency personnel working with student
assist in agency referrals
provide appropriate carryover in the school environment
II. Organization/Management
A. There may be a need to modify the instructional day. For example:
allow student more time to pass in hallways
modify class schedule

B. There may be a need to modify the classroom organization/structure. For example:
adjust placement of student within classroom (such as use of a study carrel, arrange proximity to teacher)
increase/decrease opportunity for movement
determine appropriate classroom assignment (such as open versus structured)
reduce external stimuli
C. There may be a need to modify the district's policies/procedures. For example:
allow increase in number of excused absences for health reasons
adjust transportation/parking arrangements
approve early dismissal for service agency appointments
III. Alternative Teaching Strategies
There may be need to modify teaching methods. For example:
adjust testing procedures (such as length of time, oral administration, tape recorded answers)
utilize materials that address the students learning style or modality impairment (such as visual, tactile,
auditory)
adjust reading level of materials
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IV. Student Precautions
A. There may be a need to modify the classroom/building climate for health purposes. For example:
use an air purifier in classroom
control the temperature
accommodate specific allergic reactions
B. There may be a need to modify classroom/building use to accommodate equipment needs. For example:
plan for evacuation of students who use wheelchairs
schedule classes in accessible areas
C. There may be a need to modify building health/safety procedures. For example:
administer medication
apply universal precautions
accommodate special diets

Special Services and Related Aids
Services special and related aids must be appropriate to the needs of a specific student and must be designed to meet the individual needs to
the same extent that the needs of students without disabilities are met. They may include:
Interpreters for students with deafness
Books on tape for students with significant vision problems
Accessible restrooms
Assignment sheets
Tests and quizzes given orally
Extra time for tests and exams or division of exams into parts
Note taking assistance
Peer tutoring
Extra study time for vocabulary
Acceptance of typed or dictated work
Repetition of directions by student
Preferential seating
Use of study carrel
Oral reading on a voluntary basis
Use of a calculator
Provision of defined limits
Use of positive reinforcement
Allowance for frequent breaks
Modification of physical education program for a student with asthma
Shorten school day
Allowance for service dogs
Allowance for students with diabetes to eat snacks
Evacuation plan for a student with a mobility impairment
Specialized transportation
Accessible parking
Ventilation
Acoustically appropriate environment
Modification of attendance incentive policy
Administration of medication according to district policy
Use of word processor or computer for written work
Special diet
Homebound instruction during illness
Section 504 Notice of Student and Parent Rights
Notice of Student and Parent Rights Under Section 504
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Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, commonly referred to as "Section 504," is a nondiscrimination statute enacted by the United
States Congress. The purpose of Section 504 is to prohibit discrimination and to assure that disabled students have educational opportunities
and benefits equal to those provided to non-disabled students. For more information regarding Section 504, or if you have questions or need
additional assistance, please contact your local systems Section 504 Coordinator at the following address:
Dr Karen Ross, Director of Student Services (504 Coordinator)
201 N. Main Street
Phone: 478-237-6674
Email: kross@emanuel.k12.ga.us

The implementing regulations for Section 504 as set out in 34 CFR Part 104 provide parents and/or students with the following rights:
1. Your child has the right to an appropriate education designed to meet his or her individual educational needs as adequately as the needs of
non-disabled students. 34 CFR 104.33.
2. Your child has the right to free educational services except for those fees that are imposed on non-disabled students or their parents.
Insurers and similar third parties who provide services not operated by or provided by the recipient are not relieved from an otherwise valid
obligation to provide or pay for services provided to a disabled student. 34 CFR 104.33.
3. Your child has a right to participate in an educational setting (academic and nonacademic) with non-disabled students to the maximum
extent appropriate to his or her needs. 34 CFR 104.34.
4. Your child has a right to facilities, services, and activities that are comparable to those provided for non-disabled students. 34 CFR 104.34.
5. Your child has a right to an evaluation prior to a Section 504 determination of eligibility. 34 CFR 104.35.
6. You have the right to not consent to the school systems request to evaluate your child. 34 CFR 104.35.
7. You have the right to ensure that evaluation procedures, which may include testing, conform to the requirements of 34 CFR 104.35.
8. You have the right to ensure that the school system will consider information from a variety of sources as appropriate, which may include
aptitude and achievement tests, grades, teacher recommendations and observations, physical conditions, social or cultural background,
medical records, and parental recommendations. 34 CFR 104.35.
9. You have the right to ensure that placement decisions are made by a group of persons, including persons knowledgeable about your child,
the meaning of the evaluation data, the placement options, and the legal requirements for least restrictive environment and comparable
facilities. 34 CFR 104.35.
10. If your child is eligible under Section 504, your child has a right to periodic reevaluations, including prior to any subsequent significant
change of placement. 34 CFR 104.35.
11. You have the right to notice prior to any actions by the school system regarding the identification, evaluation, or placement of your child.
34 CFR 104.36.
12. You have the right to examine your childs educational records. 34 CFR 104.36.
13. You have the right to an impartial hearing with respect to the school systems actions regarding your child's identification, evaluation, or
educational placement, with opportunity for parental participation in the hearing and representation by an attorney. 34 CFR 104.36.
14. You have the right to receive a copy of this notice and a copy of the school systems impartial hearing procedure upon request. 34 CFR
104.36.
15. If you disagree with the decision of the impartial hearing officer (school board members and other district employees are not considered
impartial hearing officers), you have a right to a review of that decision according to the school systems impartial hearing procedure. 34
CFR 104.36.
16. You have the right to, at any time, file a complaint with the United States Department of Educations Office for Civil Rights.

Section 504 Hearing Procedures /Procedural Safeguards
1. Overview: Any student or parent or guardian (grievant) may request an impartial hearing due to the school systems actions or inactions
regarding your child's identification, evaluation, or educational placement under Section 504. Requests for an impartial hearing must be in
writing to the school systems Section 504 Coordinator; however, a grievants failure to request a hearing in writing does not alleviate the
school systems obligation to provide an impartial hearing if the grievant orally requests an impartial hearing through the school systems
Section 504 Coordinator. The school systems Section 504 Coordinator will assist the grievant in completing the written Request for
Hearing.
2. Hearing Request: The Request for the Hearing must include the following:
a.The name of the student.
b.The address of the residence of the student.
c.The name of the school the student is attending.
d.The decision that is the subject of the hearing.
e.The requested reasons for review.
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f.The proposed remedy sought by the grievant.
g.The name and contact information of the grievant.
Within 10 business days from receiving the grievants Request for Hearing, the Section 504 Coordinator will acknowledge the Request for
Hearing in writing and schedule a time and place for a hearing. If the written Request for Hearing does not contain the necessary information
noted above, the Section 504 Coordinator will inform the grievant of the specific information needed to complete the request. All timelines
and processes will be stayed until the Request for Hearing contains the necessary information noted above.
3. Mediation: The school system may offer mediation to resolve the issues detailed by the grievant in his or her Request for Hearing.
Mediation is voluntary and both the grievant and school system must agree to participate. The grievant may terminate the mediation at any
time.
If the mediation is terminated without an agreement, the school system will follow the procedures for conducting an impartial hearing
without an additional Request for Hearing.
4. Hearing Procedures:
a.The Section 504 Coordinator will obtain an impartial review official who will conduct a hearing within 45 calendar days from the receipt
of the grievants Request for Hearing unless agreed to otherwise by the grievant or a continuance is granted by the impartial review official.
b.Upon a showing of good cause by the grievant or school system, the impartial review official, at his or her discretion, may grant a
continuance and set a new hearing date. The request for a continuance must be in writing and copied to the other party.
c.The grievant will have an opportunity to examine the childs educational records prior to the hearing.
d.The grievant will have the opportunity to be represented by legal counsel at his or her own expense at the hearing and participate, speak,
examine witnesses, and present information at the hearing. If the grievant is to be represented by legal counsel at the hearing, he or she must
inform the Section 504 Coordinator of that fact in writing at least 10 calendar days prior to the hearing. Failure to notify the Section 504
Coordinator in writing of representation by legal counsel shall constitute good cause for continuance of the hearing.
e.The grievant will have the burden of proving any claims he or she may assert. When warranted by circumstances or law, the impartial
hearing officer may require the recipient to defend its position/decision regarding the claims (i.e. A recipient shall place a disabled student in
the regular educational environment operated by the recipient unless it is demonstrated by the recipient that the education of the person in the
regular environment with the use of supplementary aids and services cannot be achieved satisfactorily. 34 C.F.R.104.34). One or more
representatives of the school system, who may be an attorney, will attend the hearing to present the evidence and witnesses, respond to the
grievant testimony and answer questions posed by the review official.
f.The impartial review official shall not have the power to subpoena witnesses, and the strict rules of evidence shall not apply to hearings.
The impartial review official shall have the authority to issue pre-hearing instructions, which may include requiring the parties to exchange
documents and names of witnesses to be present.
g.The impartial review official shall determine the weight to be given any evidence based on its reliability and probative value.
h.The hearing shall be closed to the public.
i.The issues of the hearing will be limited to those raised in the written or oral request for the hearing.
j.Witnesses will be questioned directly by the party who calls them. Cross-examination of witnesses will be allowed. The impartial review
official, at his or her discretion, may allow further examination of witnesses or ask questions of the witnesses.
k.Testimony shall be recorded by court reporting or audio recording at the expense of the recipient. All documentation related to the hearing
shall be retained by the recipient.
l.Unless otherwise required by law, the impartial review official shall uphold the action of school system unless the grievant can prove that a
preponderance of the evidence supports his or her claim.
m.Failure of the grievant to appear at a scheduled hearing unless prior notification of absence was provided and approved by the impartial
review official or just cause is shown shall constitute a waiver of the right to a personal appearance before the impartial review official.
5. Decision: The impartial review official shall issue a written determination within 20 calendar days of the date the hearing concluded. The
determination of the impartial review official shall not include any monetary damages or the award of any attorneys fees.
6. Review: If not satisfied with the decision of the impartial review official, any party may pursue any right of review, appeal, cause of
action or claim available to them under the law or existing state or federal rules or regulations.
504 Coordinator. For general questions or concerns, the Districts 504 Coordinator may be contacted as noted below:
Dr Karen Ross, Director of Student Services (504 Coordinator)
201 N. Main Street
Phone: 478-237-6674
Email: kross@emanuel.k12.ga.us
Submission of Written Documents. Initiation of a hearing, notification of the intent to be represented by an attorney, or submission of any
other written documents pertinent to a hearing request should be sent to Dr. Karen Ross at the above address.

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FLOWERS/BALLOONS
Flowers, balloons, etc. should not be sent to students at school. Items such as these create safety hazards on school buses and distractions in
the classroom for all students.

FOOD ALLERGIES
Students with allergies are permitted food substitutions only when supported by a statement from a recognized medical authority that
includes recommended alternate foods. A recognized medical authority may be a doctor, a nurse, or a physicians assistant. Since most
allergies continue, it is not necessary for a new medical authority statement to be secured each year. For example, if a student is allergic to
milk and a medical statement is on file, fruit juice will continue to be offered as a substitute. Ingredient information for all foods purchased is
available upon request by calling the school nutrition office at 478-237-6673.

GEORGIA STUDENT ASSESSMENT PROGRAM
Georgia established a statewide testing program to facilitate instructional planning, provide feedback to students and parents, and evaluate the
effectiveness of educational programs. The writing assessment is scheduled for students in grade 8. In this assessment, students will be asked
to write a composition on an assigned topic. The composition will be scored on the following five domains: content/organization, style,
sentence formation, usage, and mechanics. The writing assessment for 8
th
grade will be January 22-23, 2014.

The complete battery of the Georgia CRCT will be administered to students in grades 6, 7, and 8. The test includes mathematics, reading,
language, social studies, science, and sources of information. This is a norm-referenced test, which answers the question, How well is the
student doing in comparison to other students around the state. A copy of each students score report is made available to parents/guardians.
Parents are encouraged to discuss these reports with teachers in order to have a better understanding of their childs strengths and weaknesses.
The CRCT will be administered April 1-11, 2014 with retesting days for 8
th
graders that do not meet standards in reading and/or math on May
19-23, 2014.

GRADING SYSTEM AND REPORT CARDS
The evaluation of student achievement is one of the important functions of the teacher. Swainsboro Middle School uses the following grading
system:
A 90-100 Excellent
B 80-89 Good
C 70-79 Average
F Below 70 Failure

Report cards are issued at the end of each nine-weeks grading period. Progress reports are issued to all students approximately four and one-
half weeks after the report card. Both of these reports must be signed by the parent/guardian and returned to the students homeroom teacher.
Schedules for the issuance of these reports are listed below:
1
st
Progress Report 09/11/2013 1
st
Nine Weeks Report Card 10/16/2013
2
nd
nd
Nine Weeks/ 1
st
Semester Report Card 01/15/2014
3
rd
rd
Nine Weeks Report Card 03/19/2014
4
th
th
Nine Weeks/2
nd
Semester Report Card 05/23/2014
*See Parent Portal for information on accessing student grades online.

STUDENT GRIEVANCES
1. Emanuel County Schools do not discriminate on the basis of handicap or sex in admission or access to or treatment or employment in its
programs or activities.
2. Any employee, applicant for employment, student, prospective student, parent, or concerned citizen who suspects violation or
misapplication of statutes, policies, rules, or regulations governing the school district or any violation of the above mentioned statement will
have the right to pursue a complaint.
3. The complaint will be presented in writing to the district within ten (10) calendar days after the incident or other matters for which the
complaint is filed. The complaint shall include the following:
A. The mailing address of the complainant to which notices and other documents may be mailed.
B. The intent of the complainant to utilize this complaint procedure.
C. A reference to or description of the statute, policy, rule, or regulation that is alleged to have been violated or misapplied.
D. Brief statement of the facts reasonably calculated to show how such statute, policy, rule or regulation was violated or
misapplied.
E. A statement of the relief desired.
4. Due-process steps will be followed regarding the hearing procedure.
A. The complainant will be given, by the district, a notice of the time and place of the hearing whether by mail or hand-delivered
by a person designated by the superintendent.
B. The complainant will be afforded an opportunity at the hearing to be heard, to present relevant evidence and to examine
witnesses giving testimony where applicable.
C. The decision on the complaint will be made within ten (10) calendar days of the day the complaint is filed, will be dated, and a
copy will be given to the complainant in the same manner provided above for giving of the notice of the hearing. The decision shall
be dated, setting forth the nature of the complaint, the decision made and a brief statement of the reasons for the resolution reached.
5. The complainant dissatisfied with the decision from the hearing will be entitled to appeal the decision to the Emanuel County Board of
Education. The appeal must be filed with the office of the superintendent within ten (10) days after the decision of the hearing. The appeal will
be heard and determined by the Board within twenty (20) days after filing. The complainant and district officials will be entitled to appear
before and be heard by the Board of Education or any hearing officer designated by it.
6. Appeals from the decision of the Board of Education to the State Board of Education will be governed by state board policy BCAEA.
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HALL PASSES
A student must have a valid hall pass from his/her immediate teacher in their possession any time the student is out of class for any reason
other than changing classes or moving with a supervised group to lunch, assembly programs, etc. Students who are out of scheduled classes
without a hall pass will be subject to disciplinary action. Hall passes are located on the inside of this handbook when leaving class to not
return. Individual classroom hall passes will be given to students when they leave a classroom with plans to return during that same block.

HEALTH AND IMMUNIZATION RECORDS
State law requires that each student have proof of proper immunization of childhood and/or other diseases. All students must present a
statement from the Health Department or a doctor, which indicates that all immunizations are up-to-date. Students whose immunization
records are not current will be unable to enter school.

HOMEWORK
Homework is a necessary tool in the educational process. We feel that homework is vital to reinforce class work, provide extra skill practice,
and benefit preparation for testing, as well as to strengthen responsibility and self-discipline skills. Therefore, to ensure that these desired
goals be achieved, we recommend that: the purpose of the assignments be clear; homework be challenging, but not frustrating; and all
assignments and tests within the team be coordinated to avoid overloading the student. Homework should, at all times, be an extension of
those skills introduced during the school day.

HONOR ROLL
A student with an overall average of 90.00 or above shall be recognized on honor roll. Students with all As shall be recognized on star
honor roll. Honor rolls are an average of all grades on the report card as recorded each nine weeks.

HOSPITAL/HOMEBOUND INSTRUCTION
A student who has a medically diagnosed physical condition, which is noncommunicable and restricts the student to his/her home or a hospital
for a period of time, which will significantly interfere with his/her education (a minimum of 10 school days), is eligible for
hospital/homebound services. Applications for Hospital/Homebound Services may be obtained from the counseling office (478-237-8047).

ILLNESSES
Students who are experiencing flu-like symptoms, fever, nausea, diarrhea, and/or other symptoms of illness should be kept home and/or under
a doctors care until such symptoms have cleared up. Parents are requested to honor this policy to prevent the transmission of diseases or
illnesses to other individuals.

INSUBORDINATION
Insubordination is the refusal of a student to participate in an investigation into violations of school policies. Insubordination is subject to
disciplinary action.

LEAVING SCHOOL
No student will be allowed to leave campus during the school day for any reason without permission from the administration. All students
leaving school must be properly signed out in the office by a parent or guardian. Leaving campus without proper permission will result in
disciplinary measures.

LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER
HOURS OF OPERATION
The Media Center is open from 7:45 A.M. until 3:30 P.M. each school day. When the need arises, hours may be extended to allow students
access to materials and equipment. Students must have handbook in their possession to enter the library.
.INTERNET
Students have access to the Internet at school for instructional purposes only. Students may have supervised use of this service only after
submitting a properly completed Network/Internet Usage Agreement to their homeroom teacher. The agreement is on pages 32-33 of the
student/parent handbook.

LOCKERS
Lockers are property of the school and are subject to periodic searches by the administration. A locker will be issued to each student by his/her
homeroom teacher and is not to be shared by students. Lockers should be locked at all times other than when the student is retrieving and/or
storing books, jackets, purses, etc. In order to protect the student and prevent theft or loss of books and personal items, students should not
share locker combinations. Students are personally responsible for any damage to their assigned locker; writing or other defacing of the
locker is strictly prohibited. Any problems regarding the security of the locker should be reported immediately to the office. Failure to comply
with these rules will result in a discipline referral and possible loss of locker privileges. Lockers are to be used before homeroom and during
scheduled breaks. Locks not issued by the school should not be put on lockers. Such locks may be removed at the discretion of the school
administration. Students should visit lockers only at the proper designated times.

MEDICINE
Students who have medication prescribed by a doctor and/or students who are taking other medication (including aspirin, Tylenol, etc.) and
are required to take it at school must leave the medication with the School Nurse along with a signed doctor/parent instruction statement
regarding dosage. The School Nurse will not dispense internal medication of any kind without permission of the parent or guardian. Medicines
sent to school are for the child whose name appears on the prescription or for whom the parent note is written and will not be given to other
students or siblings. Medications are to be taken to the nurses office prior to school; students are not to have any medications in their
possession other than in the nurses office. EXCEPTION: Senate Bill 472: Authorizing the self-administration of asthma medication by a
28
student who has asthma, provided that any student who is authorized for self-administration of asthma medication possess or use his or her
own medication.

NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND ACT
PARENT NOTIFICATION
The No Child Left Behind Act requires each school system to notify parents of any teacher who is NOT highly qualified (including long-
term substitutes, teachers on temporary leave, etc.) if he/she teaches a core academic subject for 4 (four) consecutive weeks or more. This
required parent notification applies to all core academic content area teachers in both Title I and Non Title I schools and programs in Georgia.

OFFENSES COMMITTED OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL
The Emanuel County Board of Education has a policy which states that if a student is involved in an incident outside of school which is so
serious that the learning atmosphere of the school would be disrupted or compromised if that student returned to school, then that student is
subject to being suspended. School officials must report crimes as required by Georgia law.

ORGANIZATION OF GRADE LEVELS
Swainsboro Middle School consists of grades 6, 7, and 8. The schedule for each grade consists of blocks of time during which math, language
arts, science, spelling, social studies, reading, health/physical education, and connections courses are taught. Students and teachers in each
grade will be divided into two teams.

PARENT INVOLVEMENT PLAN
The Swainsboro Middle School community recognizes the importance of parent involvement to reach individual student goals for success.
We recognize that parents are their childrens primary teachers and their support is critical in our efforts to provide a quality education to the
children at Swainsboro Middle School. In our efforts to improve student achievement, Swainsboro Middle School has established objectives
and will implement strategies to increase parent and community involvement within our school.

Swainsboro Middle School has an open door policy that encourages parents to visit the school. Our parent involvement meetings are designed
to provide them with resources and materials they need to become more effective and actively involved in their childrens education. We will
continue to provide our parents and community with various forms of communication, including parent/student handbook, newsletters, flyers,
PTO information, phone calls, email, etc.

Two formal evening meetings will be conducted yearly to include parents in the planning process for the school program and revision of the
school-parent compact. In addition, an initial meeting will inform parents of the schools Title I Plan, its requirements and their right to be
involved in the program. Parent conference days will be conducted three times per school term to inform parents of their students progress
and the plan for interventions when needed. Swainsboro Middle School will assist parents in the understanding of the States academic
content standards. Information on State and local assessments used to measure student progress and the proficiency levels the students are
expected to meet is shared with parents. Title I funds will be provided for transportation, childcare and home visits as needed.

The school community will include a Parent Resource Center strategically located to facilitate parent and community involvement in the
school program. The Parent Resource Center will also provide parents with information, materials, resources, and training in order to help
their children with their academic success. Literacy and technology training will be provided, as appropriate, to foster parental involvement
and increased student achievement. Through regular meetings the center will provide the opportunity to volunteer and participate in the
decision making process by offering suggestions and receiving timely feedback to their suggestions.

Workshops will be conducted to train parents in ways they can contribute their childs progress. Ideas will be shared for monitoring
attendance and television viewing, completing homework, and opportunities provided for volunteering at SMS. Efforts will be made to
provide a supportive and effective learning environments by collaborating with the ESOL Department and other pertinent departments and
facilitate the translation of pertinent information for parents where English is not their first language will be provided to the extent practicable.
Parents and students with disabilities will also be accommodated with collaboration of the Special Education Department at the school and
county levels. An annual survey will be sent to parents. The data will be collected and submitted including all unsatisfactory comments
regarding the school plan to the LEA.

To build ties between home and school, parents will assist in the professional development of teachers and school staff in the utility of
contributions of parents, and in how to reach out to, communicate with, and work with parents as equal partners. Swainsboro Middle School
will implement and coordinate parents programs in order to build ties between home and school. In addition, formal compacts between
parents, school community, and student will be employed to specify everyones contributing role in reaching the individual students goals.
Parent teacher conferences will be held at least annually to relate individual students achievement to compact. Parents will be informed of
their students academic progress every 41/2 weeks, and a formal report card will be sent home every nine weeks. Parents will also be
encouraged to participate in their students class and observe classroom activities and given the opportunity to suggest other activities that
would provide additional parental support.
*Reviewed with no revision March, 2013

PARENT PORTAL
The Infinite Campus Parent Portal allows parents/guardians to monitor their child's school information and progress, by viewing attendance,
grades, assignments, class schedules, and other student demographics online in a confidential and secure setting. A link to the Parent Portal,
as well as, instructions for setting up a user account, is located on the Emanuel County School website: www.emanuel.k12.ga.us. Directions
for setting up a parent portal accounts are available in school office

PERFECT ATTENDANCE
A student must be in each class for the entire class period every day of the school term to awarded perfect attendance. School related
functions do not count against a childs attendance.
29

PHOTO USE PER PERMISSION
Unless the parent or legal guardian requests otherwise, pictures and/or audiovisual recordings of students may be taken by the news media
and/or the school system or individual schools during sporting events, awards ceremonies, and general interest events. Pictures and/or
audiovisual presentations of students may appear on the school system or individual web sites. Pictures may also appear in school, school
system and/or news media publications. If the parent or legal guardian wishes to prohibit the taking of any picture or the making of any
audiovisual recording of their child by the news media, school system, or by individual schools, notification must be filed, in writing, within
10 days of the beginning of the school year or the date of enrollment. Pictures and/or audiovisual recordings that identify students as
receiving special education instruction will not be allowed without prior approval.

POSITIVE BEHAVIOR INTERVENTION SUPPORT
All schools in the Emanuel County School System will model and implement Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). All
schools will routinely recognize those students who continually demonstrate the systems core values of being responsible, being respectful,
and being safe.

PROMOTION/RETENTION
Sixth and seventh grade students must have adequate assessment test scores and not fail any more than a1 class in order to be promoted.
Eighth grade students must meet state standards on the CRCT in reading and mathematics AND not fail any more than 1 class in order to
be promoted.
SMS RETENTION GUIDELINES
6
th
and 7
th
Grade
1. Academic classes count 1 point. Must pass 3 out of 4 Academic Classes (ELA, Math, Science, SS)
2. Connections classes count 1/4 point
3. Students will be awarded point for every portion of the CRCT that they meet or exceed (800; Reading, Language Arts, Math,
Science, and Social Studies)
4. CRCT- Any student that DOES NOT MEET (<800) Math or Reading will be flagged as Tier 3 in the RTI Process for the following
school year.
Total Points Academic
Points
Status
6.5 3 Promoted to next grade level
5.5-6.5 3 Placed in next grade level
The student is flagged as Tier 2 RTI for the next school year.
n/a <3 Retention meeting required.
Retention committee decides to place up or retain student. The student is flagged
as Tier 3 RTI for the next school term.

8
th
Grade
1. Academic classes count 1 point. Must pass 3 out of 4 Academic Classes (ELA, Math, Science, SS)
2. Connections classes count point.
3. Students will be awarded point for every portion of the CRCT that they meet or exceed (800; Reading, Language Arts, Math,
Science, and Social Studies)
4. CRCT remediation program April 15 May 17, 2013. Re-test on May 20-24, 2013. Students identified as potentially not meeting
Math or Reading will begin remediation on April 15, 2013.
5. CRCT- Any student that DOES NOT MEET (<800) Math or Reading 1
st
administration and retest, will be flagged as Tier 3 in the
RTI Process for the following year.
Total
Points
Academic
Points
M and Rdg CRCT
Results
Status
6.5 3 Meets Both Promoted to 9
th
grade
6.5 3 DNM on one or both
BUT meets on retest
Promoted to 9
th
grade
6.5 3 DNM on one or both
retests.
Placement committee meets. Student has option to attend
summer school to be placed in the 9
th
grade.

<6.5 3 Meets both (first
administration or
retest)
Placement committee meets. Student has option to attend
summer school to be placed in the 9
th
grade.
30

<6.5 <3 N/A (CRCT results
should be considered
during the appeal
process
Placement committee meets.
Student will be retained in 8
th
grade (student could be given
the option to attend summer school to be placed in 9
th
grade)

PRIVACY RIGHTS OF PARENTS AND STUDENTS
Parents and eligible students have the right to:
1. Inspect and review the education records of a student who is your child, or in the case of a student who is eighteen years of age (18) or
older, your own education records;
2. Request the amendment of the students education records to ensure that they are not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the
students privacy or other rights;
3. Consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the students education records, except to the extent that the Act
and the regulations promulgated pursuant to the Act authorize disclosure without consent;
4. File with the United States Department of Education a complaint under 20 C.F.R. 99.64 concerning the alleged failures by the Emanuel
County Board of Education to comply with the requirements of the Act or the regulations promulgated there under; and
5. Obtain a copy of the policy, which the board of education has adopted regarding access to student records. Copies of this policy may be
obtained by contacting the central office of the board of education at 201 North Main Street, P. O. Box 130, Swainsboro, Georgia 30401. The
phone number is 237-6674.

DIRECTORY INFORMATION
The Emanuel County School District has designated the following information as directory information:
Students name, address, and telephone number;
Students date and place of birth;
Students participation in official school clubs and sports;
Weight and height of student if he/she is a member of an athletic team;
Dates of attendance at the School System schools; and
Awards received during the time enrolled in the Emanuel County School System.
Unless the parent/guardian or eligible student requests otherwise, the above information may be disclosed to the public upon request.
Parents/guardians or eligible students have the right to refuse to allow all or any part of the above information to be designated as directory
information and to be disclosed to the public upon request. If the parent/guardian or eligible student wishes to exercise this right, the eligible
individual must notify the principal of the school at which the student is enrolled in writing within 10 days after receipt of this notice.

RESPONSE TO INTERVENTION (RTI)
Response to Intervention (RTI): The Georgia Student Achievement Pyramid of Interventions is the process of aligning
appropriate assessment with purposeful instruction for all students. In Georgia, Response to Intervention is based
in the general education classroom where teachers routinely implement a strong and rigorous standards-based
learning environment.
All students participate in general education learning. Students requiring interventions to meet individual learning
expectations will receive support through a systematic and purposeful process. The number of students requiring
interventions will decrease as the level of intensity of the intervention increases.

Georgias RTI process includes several key components:

o A 4-Tier delivery model designed to provide support matched to student need through the implementation of
standards-based classrooms.
o Evidence-based instruction as the core of classroom pedagogy.
o Evidence-based interventions utilized with increasing levels of intensity based on progress monitoring.
o The use of a variety of ongoing assessment data to determine which students are not meeting success
academically and/or behaviorally.
o Data Teams in each school serve as the driving force for instructional decision making in the building.
o Purposeful allocation of instructional resources based on student assessment data.
The 4-Tiers of RTI include:
Tier 1 Standards-Based Classroom Learning
Tier 2 Needs-Based Learning
Tier 3 SST-Driven Learning
Tier 4 Specially-Designed Learning

RESPONSIBILITY FOR DAMAGES/LOSSES
The school is not responsible for damages resulting from personal injuries or property damage as a result of horseplaying, fighting, or other
acts of one student against another. Disciplinary actions for such occurrences from the school will be administered as appropriate. Students are
discouraged from bringing large sums of money or other valuable items. Students are encouraged to identify their belongings with permanent
ink. The school cannot be responsible for the loss of such items; however, students are encouraged to immediately report the loss of such
items to the school office.
31

SCHOOL COUNCIL
The school council will be made up of the principal, business representatives, parent representatives, and teacher representatives. The council
will meet once per quarter, dates will be posted in school office and on school website.

SCHOOL AND THE LAW
Any unlawful act taking place on school grounds or buses makes the student subject to penalties under the law and may result
in prosecution through the legal system and/or suspension or dismissal from school.

SCHOOL NURSE
Swainsboro Middle School has access to the services of a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). The school nurse will provide services to all
students as needed, which have generally been provided by other school personnel in the past. (Example: band-aids, Tylenol, administration of
prescription medications, minor emergencies, etc.) No fee will be charged to parents or students for these services, but parents must sign a
consent form in order for the school nurse to administer medications of any kind.

SCHOOL SAFETY
Swainsboro Middle School will be operated as a safe environment. Students and/or others who choose to violate generally accepted rules of
the prevention of harm to other individuals and/or property will be subject to swift disciplinary action and/or referral to legal authorities or
both. School personnel do not need search warrants, nor do they have to marandize students. Standard school operations are not subject to
parental notification requirements.

SCHOOL SPONSORED CLUBS
School sponsored clubs (excluding competitive interscholastic activities or events) are those under the sponsorship, direction and control of
the school that organize and meet for common goals, objectives, and purposes. State law requires that parents have the right to withhold
permission for their students to participate in any school sponsored club or organization designated by them. The following school sponsored
clubs will be in operation during this school year: Junior Beta, Student Council, FBLA, 4-H, SMS Chess Club, SMS Yearbook, & SMS
Drama Club. You, as the parent/guardian, have the right to withhold in writing your permission for your students participation in any club or
organization. If you DO NOT wish for your student to participate in a particular club, please request a denial of permission form from the
school principal. If a club is added during the school year, you will be provided information on the club and your written permission will be
required prior to your students participation.
Students participating in school level athletics must have an updated physical form on file each year with the school athletic director. All
student athletes are subject to MGMSAA rules and regulations. To be eligible to participate in athletics, students cannot have failing grades in
2 or more academic subjects for the semester prior to participation.

SEARCH AND SEIZURE
School administrators and/or their designated representatives possess the authority to conduct a reasonable search of students, their
possessions, and their lockers when on school property. The administrator is required to have only reasonable suspicion to conduct such
searches.

SELLING
No items may be sold on campus without permission of the school administration. Items being sold as part of school group fund-raisers may
not be sold by students during school hours. School is not a place for buying, selling, or trading candy, videogames, sports cards, etc. Students
are subject to having these items confiscated by a teacher or a school administrator.

STUDENT ACTIVITY FEE
Students at SMS pay a $5.00 activity fee at the beginning of the year. Among the expenses partially covered by the $5.00 fee are the student
handbook and locker maintenance.

STUDENT PLANNER BOOK
The student planner book is to be treated as a textbook and will be checked out of the library for the school term. Students will be required to
return handbook at the end of the school term. The planner book is a place for assignments to be written down. Students should not use the
handbook to display inappropriate pictures or drawings. The Student Handbook should be in the possession of the student at all times during
the school day. Students will be required to pay a $5 replacement fee for lost or damaged handbooks.

STUDENT AWARDS
Students may earn the following awards at Swainsboro Middle School: Citizenship Award, Star Honor Roll, Honor Roll, Perfect Attendance,
and Top Tiger.

STUDENT ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION
Senate Bill 472: Authorizing the self-administration of asthma medication by a student who has asthma, provided that any student who is
authorized for self-administration of asthma medication possess or use his or her own medication.

TARDIES
32
Students are expected to be at school and in all classes on time. It is the students responsibility to be on time. Classes begin at 7:55 A.M.
Students are tardy if they arrive in class after 8:00 A.M. Students arriving late to school will report to the office with their parent or guardian
or should have a written excuse from a parent or guardian. Repeated tardies will result in progressive disciplinary action and possible referral
to the school social worker. Excused tardies include but are not limited to doctor/dental appointments, late bus, etc. Excessive tardiness may
be addressed with disciplinary action at the school level, also. Every three tardies and or early releases are counted as one absence in student
attendance.

TEACHERS & PARAPROFESSIONALS QUALITY NOTICE
We are required to notify parents if a teacher who is not highly qualified is teaching their child a core academic content course. Parental
notification is required if a teacher who is not highly qualified teaches their child for four consecutive weeks or more. Parental notification
is not required for paraprofessionals who are not highly qualified. Effective 2006-07, the parent notification requirement applies to teachers
who teach core academic content subjects.

TELEPHONE
Office personnel will use office phones to call for a student who is sick or who has an emergency. Administrative approval will be necessary
for other student phone use. Students must have teacher permission to use the phone. Non-emergency use of a telephone will also require
teacher permission and will cost $.25. Phone calls may be monitored by office personnel and a time limit will be imposed on non-emergency
phone calls.

VIDEO CAMERAS
Our school may, at its discretion, use video cameras to promote safety, order, and discipline inside the Georgia school zone.

VISITORS
All visitors should report to the office when arriving on campus during school hours. While parents are welcome, Swainsboro
Middle School requires them to check in at the office upon entrance into the school. Loitering around the school or parking lot by individuals
not enrolled or employed by the school could result in notification of law enforcement authorities. Any visitor should sign-in at the office and
obtain a visitors name tag. Student visitors (relatives, friends from other schools, etc.) are not allowed.

WEAPONS
NOTICE: It shall be unlawful for any person to carry or to possess or have under control any weapon within a school safety zone or
at a school building, school function, or on school property or on a bus or other transportation furnished by the school. The term
weapon means and includes any pistol, revolver, or any weapon designed or intended to propel a missile of any kind, or any dirk,
bowie knife, switchblade knife, ballistic knife, any other knife having a blade of two or more inches, straight-edge razor, spring stick,
metal knucks, blackjack, or any flailing instrument consisting of two or more rigid parts connected in such a manner as to allow them
to swing freely, which may be known as a nun chahka, nun chuck, nunchaku, shuriken, or fighting chain, or any disc, of whatever
configuration, having at least two points or pointed blades which is designed to be thrown or propelled and which may be known as a
throwing star or oriental dart, or any weapon of like kind, and any stun gun or taser as defined in O.C.G.A. 16-11-106.
PUNISHMENT: A fine of not more than $10,000; imprisonment for not less than two or any more than ten years, or both. A juvenile
who violates this shall be subject to the provision of O.C.G.A. 15-11-37.

WEATHER WATCH
The first condition for making a decision to close schools is safety. When severe weather occurs, parents should monitor radio news reports or
contact the local school to learn about closings or changes. Announcements will be made prior to 6:30 A.M., when possible.

WITHDRAWAL OR TRANSFER FROM SCHOOL
Written parental/guardian consent is required when a student desires to withdraw or transfer from school. All transfers/withdrawals are
processed through the counseling office. Unless proper withdrawal procedures are followed, no credits or records will be sent to other schools,
and re-entry at a later time may be denied.
Cybersafety User Agreement For Secondary Students

Instructions for parents*/caregivers/legal guardians
1. Please read sections A and B carefully. If there are any points you would like to discuss with the school, let the school office
know as soon as possible.
2. Discuss the cybersafety rules with your child.
3. Sign the usage agreement form (Section C) and return that section to the school office. A separate copy of the agreement will be
sent home for signatures.
4. Please keep Sections A and B for future reference.
* The term parent used throughout this document also refers to legal guardians and caregivers.
** ICT refers to Information and Communication Technologies

Section A: I NTRODUCTI ON

33
The measures to ensure the cybersafety of students in Emanuel County Schools outlined in this document are based on our core
values. The districts computer network, Internet access facilities, computers and other school ICT equipment/devices bring great
benefits to the teaching and learning programs at each school in our district, and to the effective operation of the schools and district.
Our schools have rigorous cybersafety practices in place, which include cybersafety usage agreements for all school staffs and
students.
The overall goal of the district in this matter is to create and maintain a cybersafety culture which is in keeping with the values of the
district, as well as, legislative and professional obligations. This usage agreement includes information about your obligations,
responsibilities, and the nature of possible consequences associated with cybersafety breaches which undermine the safety of the
school environment.
All students will be issued a usage agreement. Once signed consent has been returned to school, students will be able to use the school
ICT equipment/devices.
The schools computer network, Internet access facilities, computers and other school ICT equipment/devices are for educational
purposes appropriate to the school environment. This applies whether the ICT equipment is owned or leased either partially or wholly
by the school, and used on or off the school site.
The district may monitor traffic and material sent and received using the districts ICT network. The district may use filtering and/or
monitoring software to restrict access to certain sites and data, including email.
The district may audit its computer network, Internet access facilities, computers and other district ICT equipment/devices or
commission an independent forensic audit.
Section B: RULES TO HELP KEEP EMANUEL COUNTY STUDENTS CYBERSAFE
As a safe and responsible user of I CT I will help keep myself and other people safe by following these rules:
To the parent/caregiver/legal guardian, please;

1. Read this page carefully, to check that you understand your responsibilities under this agreement.
2. Sign the appropriate section on this form.
3. Detach and return this section to the school office.
4. Keep the document for future reference, as well as the copy of this signed page which the school will provide.
Please note: This agreement for your child will remain in force as long as he/she is enrolled at this school. If it becomes
necessary to add/amend any information or rule, parents will be advised in writing.
Revised: June 5, 2012
Dear parent(s)*,
These are seventeen rules to help keep students cybersafe as outlined in the cybersafety usage agreement that you and your son/daughter have been
asked to sign.
1. I cannot use the school ICT equipment until my parent and I have signed the usage agreement and it has been returned to school. All
students must have a usage agreement signed by themselves and their parent. Usage agreements are an essential part of cybersafety policy and
programs for schools and other organizations.
2. If I have my own user name, I will log on only with that user name. I will not allow anyone else to use my user name. The user name is the
unique identity by which the network recognizes an individual. There are never two users with the same user name and this allows the school to
track the activity of any student.
3. I will not tell anyone else my password. Passwords perform two main functions. Firstly, they help to ensure only approved persons can access
the school ICT facilities. Secondly, they are used to track how those facilities are used.
4. While at school or at a school related activity, I will not have any involvement with any ICT material or activity which might put myself
or anyone else at risk (e.g. bullying or harassing). Unfortunately, along with many benefits, technology has also provided new ways to carry
out anti-social activities. Bullying and harassment by text message, for example, is becoming a major problem. Often students become involved in
these acts through peer pressure, without thinking of the consequences.
5. I understand that I must not at any time use ICT to upset, offend, harass, threaten or in any way harm anyone connected to the school or
the school itself, even if it is meant as a joke. Harassing or bullying others will not be regarded as a joke by the school.
6. I understand that the rules in this agreement also apply to mobile phones. I will only use my mobile phone(s) at the times that I am
permitted to during the school day. Students and parents are also reminded of the schools specific policy on the use of mobile phones at
school.
7. I understand that I can only use the Internet at school when a teacher gives permission and there is staff supervision. There must be an
educational purpose for students to be online or accessing the Internet at school. Having a staff member present will help to ensure student
safety.
8. While at school, I will not:
Initiate access, or attempt to access age restricted, or objectionable material
Download, save or distribute such material by copying, storing, printing or showing to other people
Make any attempt to get around, or bypass security, monitoring and filtering that is in place at our school.
9. If I accidentally access inappropriate material, I will not show others. I will close or minimize the window and report the incident to a
teacher immediately. Because anyone at all can publish material on the Internet, it does contain material which is inappropriate, and in some
cases illegal. The school has taken a number of steps to prevent this material from being accessed. However, there always remains the possibility
that a student may inadvertently stumble across something inappropriate.
10. I understand that I must not download any files such as music, videos, games or programs without the permission of a teacher. This
makes sure the school complies with the Copyright Act 1994. I also understand that anyone who infringes copyright may be personally
34
liable under this law. Sometimes these files can contain malicious content such as viruses, spyware programs or even inappropriate, age
restricted or illegal material.
11. I understand that these rules apply to any privately owned ICT equipment/device (such as a laptop, mobile phone, USB drive) I bring to
school or a school related activity. Any images or material on such equipment/devices must be appropriate to the school environment.
Students need to be aware that if they bring any ICT device to school or to a school related event, then all stored content on it must be acceptable
and appropriate for the school environment.
12. I will not connect any device (such as a USB drive, camera or phone) to school ICT or run any software without a teachers permission.
This includes wireless technologies. Connecting devices and installing software brought from home may cause conflicts with the school ICT
systems. The school must also abide by software licensing requirements included with software.
13. I will ask my teachers permission before I put any personal information online. I will also get permission from the other person involved.
This reduces the risk of students being contacted by someone who wishes to upset or harm them, or use their identity for purposes which might
compromise students privacy or security online.
14. I will respect all school ICT and treat ICT equipment/devices with care. This includes not intentionally disrupting the smooth running of
any school ICT system, not attempting to hack or gain unauthorized access to any system, following all school cybersafety rules, not
joining in if other students choose to be irresponsible with ICT, and reporting any breakages/damage to a staff member. Intentionally
disrupting ICT systems will be seen by the school as intentionally setting out to disrupt the learning of others.
15. I understand that the district may monitor traffic and material sent and received using the districts ICT network. The school may use
filtering and/or monitoring software to restrict access to certain sites and data including email. The school has an electronic monitoring
system that has the capacity to record Internet use, including user details, time, date, sites visited, length of time viewed and from which
computer/ device.
16. I understand that the school may audit its computer network, Internet access facilities, computers and other school ICT
equipment/devices or commission an independent forensic audit. Auditing of the above items may include any stored content, and all
aspects of their use, including email. In an audit, all material, files and emails could be checked by the school.
17. I understand that if I break these rules, the school may need to inform my parent(s). In serious cases the school may take disciplinary
action against me. I also understand that my family may be charged for repair costs. If illegal material or activities are involved, it may
be necessary for the school to inform the police. Depending on the seriousness of the breach, possible school responses could include one or
more of the following: a discussion with the student, informing parent(s), loss of ICT privileges, the family possibly having responsibility for
repair/replacement costs, the school taking disciplinary action.

35

This student handbook is sponsored by
PeachCare for Kids.

PeachCare is an affordable low-cost health insurance for
children, ages birth through 18. For more information, go to
http://www.peachcare.org/
or contact your school office for an application.

The Emanuel County Board of Education does not discriminate on
the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age or handicap/
disability in its educational programs, activities or employment practices.

Inquiries concerning our application of
Title VI, Title IX, Title II, Perkins Act, Section 504, ADA
and/or Gender Equity In Sports
to the policies and practices of the Emanuel County School System
may be addressed to:

Tammy Wilkes
P.O. Box 130
201 North Main Street
(478) 237-6674

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