Welcome to reality check time! In society, there are rules and procedures all citizens must follow on a daily basis. Students on my team are informed of 20 essential academic and social responsibilities at the start of each school year. Since I know a list of rules can become "lost" during the course of the year, I have conveniently placed them here for easy reference.

8th Grade Pre-Quantum Leap Team Rules and Procedures 

1. Carefully read the Code of Student Conduct and the Forest Glen Middle School Discipline Plan. All procedures, policies, and rules apply on this team. You are responsible for that information!

2. Forest Glen Middle School has a uniform dress code. Abide by it at all times.

3. Be in your assigned seat BEFORE the scheduled start of class. Unexcused tardies will be recorded and disciplinary measures taken if tardies become excessive.

4. Have necessary materials for class. Bring your textbook (if applicable), reading book (for Critical Thinking), notebook, necessary folders, daily planner, pens, pencils, and any work that is due. Failure to have any of these materials may result in points deducted. Routine assignments not turned in when due - regardless of the reason - will not be accepted.

5. If you are absent (excused), complete and turn in make-up work within the time specified according to the Code of Student Conduct. The same requirement also applies to make-up tests.

SPECIAL NOTE: If you are absent (excused) on the day an assignment is due, the work is expected upon your return to school, regardless of the block schedule. Tests and quizzes should be made up by the next class or as directed by the teacher.

6. Talking while someone else is talking is inappropriate and rude. You will be warned, then disciplined.

7. Discipline problems will involve contacts with parents, administrators, and guidance. Be prepared for severe consequences if you are rude, disrespectful, insolent, dishonest, or distracting.

8. Academic placement is subject to review pending assessments and grades at the end of each semester.

9. Students should NOT ask to use the restroom or get water during class unless there is an unusual situation. A record will be maintained of students asking to leave the classroom. Most of the time the answer will be NO! If you are permitted to leave class, make sure to have a hall pass.

10. Follow classroom safety procedures carefully. Do not touch any equipment without permission. In most cases, this infraction will result in a disciplinary measure for disobedience. Improper behavior during a group activity or lab will limit your participation in the future and affect your grade.

11. Permission must be obtained to use classroom computers. The Internet will be used only for course related tasks. Any violation of school computer procedures will result in the termination of your computer privileges on this team. A report to administration or the district office will be made.

12. You are responsible for the care of assigned textbooks. Book checks may occur periodically. Charges for damage or book replacement will apply at the end of the year.

13. Gum or candy is NOT allowed in class. Eating in a classroom on special occasions is solely at the teacher's discretion.

14. Specific instructions will be provided for the maintenance of your notebook. Follow them exactly.

15. You have an assigned seat for each class. Changes may not be made, except as directed by the teacher.

16. Do not write on desks or school property, or you will be assigned to clean them or pay retribution.

17. Stay away from the teachers' desks, chairs, and computers at all times!

18. Do not attempt to line up at the door before the bell indicating a class change or dismissal. Remember, the teacher dismisses the class, not the bell!

19. Cheating and plagiarism will not be tolerated! If caught, you will receive a zero on the work in question and your parent(s) will be contacted. An act of plagiarism carries the additional consequence of a referral to administration. Please work honestly because you are capable on your own; otherwise, you would not be on this team!

20. Be smart. Do not talk back to your teachers, question decisions made, or complain about procedures. You are going to lose! The teachers will privately discuss any matter at an appropriate time, but any form of insubordination will not be tolerated.

 

By following these 20 rules and procedures, you will be guaranteed a terrific 2008-09 school year. In addition, your teachers will be extremely pleased, and your parent(s) will be proud of your accomplishments!