Fortuna Middle School

2016/2017

Fortuna Elementary School District Student Expectations

The Board of Trustees and Fortuna Middle School desire to prepare students for
responsible citizenship by fostering self-discipline and personal responsibility. The
Trustees believe that high expectations for student behavior, effective classroom
management, and parent/guardian involvement can minimize the need for discipline. In
order to ensure a safe learning environment for all, the Fortuna Elementary District
utilizes a Positive Behavior Intervention Supports plan with consequences for not
meeting the expectations. Therefore it is the responsibility of all (students, parents,
guardians, teachers, administrators, and other school personnel) to maintain an
atmosphere of mutual respect. The following are guidelines to be followed at school:

Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports

Be Safe, Be Responsible, Be Respectful, Be A Problem Solver

Fortuna Middle School Positive Behavioral

Intervention and Supports Program (PBIS)
The goal of the FMS PBIS system is to teach students to demonstrate a high level of
responsibility for their behavior. In this system, students are taught how to be responsible,
respectful, safe and problem solvers. Students learn about social skills, communication,
interacting with peers and adults. The staff here at FMS will be teaching clear
expectations for behavior, communicate clearly what the expectations are for students,
explain the system for encouraging positive behavior and discouraging undesired
behavior. The FMS staff will look at data that will help to decrease the undesired
behaviors. We encourage parents to communicate any questions or concerns with staff
here at FMS. Those students caught doing the Right Thing will be awarded with a
Spartan Ticket. This Ticket may be turned in for a reward (snacks) or entered into a
drawing for monthly prizes.
To be a STAR in our PBIS program:
* SHOW UP EVERY DAY ON TIME
* TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR ACTIONS
* BE READY TO WORK
Cooperate with maximum effort
Listen and participate
Complete Assignments of high quality
Have All Materials You Need - books, pencil, etc.
* HAVE A WILLINGNESS TO LEARN
* MAINTAIN A GOOD ATTITUDE
Show Respect to Everyone and the School
Follow Fortuna Middle School Rules
Do What You Are Asked Willingly
Use Good Manners

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Student Appreciation Days
Students earn monthly student appreciation days on one Friday of each month starting in
October for good attendance, grades and behavior. Students who have 2 or less
unexcused absences/tardies, no Ds/Fs/NCs and no more than 1 referral will earn
attendance to the student appreciation day. The principal will check the eligibility of
students before the student appreciation day. Once students have chosen an activity, they
must stay in that activity. Students not earning the student appreciation day will go to a
supervised study hall. Students start fresh at the beginning of each month toward earning
the incentive day for that period. Parent donations of snacks and materials are encouraged
at these activities. Please contact Mr. Zinselmeir or Mr. Georgopoulos (Student Council
Coordinator) at 725-3415 if you are interested in helping.

Bikes, Skateboards, and other Wheeled Toys

Upon arrival at school, these items must be locked and stowed away in the
designated area
Bike helmets are required, we have extras if needed
Wheels of any kind are prohibited on campus at all times, including hover boards
It is the students responsibility to learn and observe the traffic rules for bicycles

Cafeteria and Snack Expectations

All food and drinks are to be consumed by the water fountain by the playground or in
gym on rainy days. Please bring nutritional snacks.
Students are to enter the cafeteria in an orderly fashion as directed by their teacher or
other adult supervisor
Students are to remain until dismissed by the cafeteria supervisor
All recycling and trash is to be put in the designated bin and the area around which a
student has eaten is to be clean before leaving the cafeteria
Under no circumstances is food or anything else to be thrown in the cafeteria
Students are to be respectful and follow expectations created for the cafeteria
The only beverages that are allowed during school time are water, milk or 100% fruit
juice. All other drinks are not allowed and will be confiscated and disposed. These
drinks include but are not limited to sports drinks, soft drinks, coffee drinks, and
energy drinks

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Cell Phones

Students may turn phones/electrical devices into the front office and pick up at end of the
day. Phones/electrical devices are to be turned off and in backpacks while on school
grounds. If a cell phone/electrical device is visible or has been left on, it will be
confiscated and turned into the office for parent pick up. On the second violation, the
phone will be turned into the office for parent pickup. On the students third violation, the
student will receive a 1day suspension from school and a meeting between the parent and
Principal will result about the students phone. Parent/guardian contact should be made
through school office rather than cell phones. The school is not responsible for lost or
stolen cell phones. Upon arrival, students need to turn phones off and at dismissal phones
may be turned back on.

Dress Code

Remember: A students appearance should not attract undue attention. If you are
wearing inappropriate clothing, you will be asked to modify the clothing here at school or
we will contact your parent/guardian to bring a different set for the school day.
Appropriate dress is expected at all extra-curricular activities.
Tops must be appropriately modest, have two straps (no off the shoulder) and not
reveal the midriff (stomach) or underwear. Tank tops must have straps at least 2
fingers wide. Tank tops and sports jerseys with enlarged arm-holes should have
an undershirt.
Shirts/blouses that are particularly low cut in the front or back are inappropriate.
Shirts/blouses must have enough material to cover bras. Bra straps may not show
at any time.
Shorts and skirts must be finger-tip length when arms are fully extended at sides
Pants may not sag or be excessively baggy. No undergarments should be visible.
If students wear hip-hugger or low rise pants, shirts must cover midriff. Pajama
pants, flannel lounge pants, and oversized pants may not be worn (except on
special theme days). Belts shall be kept in belt loops.
Shoes must be worn at all times for safety. Students must be able to participate in
PE every day. Shoes must have closed toes and heel straps. Therefore, slippers,
flip-flops, high heels or shoes with wheels are not allowed at any time.
Any items displaying anything to do with cigarettes, alcohol, drugs, gangs, vulgar
printing and/or something in poor taste are not permitted.
Chains of any kind, including wallet chains are not permitted.
Sunglasses, unless required by prescription, must be removed upon request and
while indoors
For physical safety, only safe ear jewelry is allowed. No facial piercings.
Hats and hoods may not be worn inside.
Bandanas of any type, even factory made, are not permitted.

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Gum

Chewing gum is not permitted at FMS. If violating this rule students will be asked to
clean up/scrape gum or campus beautification from the campus. Please leave gum at
home.

Inappropriate Language

Students are expected to use appropriate language at all times. If used inappropriately
and/or repeatedly, consequences will follow.

Library/Computer Lab

Pupils are expected to behave in a respectful and responsible way in the library, as they
are in other areas of the school. General school rules apply in the library, and any pupils
breaking those rules will be subject to school disciplinary procedures.
The basic rules are as follows:
Be considerate to other users and keep noise to a minimum.
Be positive, and use the library constructively.
Return borrowed items on time and in good condition.
Look after other pupils and report instances of bullying immediately.
Use library computers responsibly for your school work, and at all times within
the guidelines contained in the schools Acceptable Use Policy.
Do not damage any equipment or library stock.
Do not eat or drink in the library.

If expectations are not met, students will be dealt with appropriate consequences. Repeat
offenders may be banned from library use and access.

Playground

Students must stay where they are visible to yard supervisor(s). Students are not
allowed to play in the school yard w/o staff supervision before school, during
school or during afterschool program hours.
When leaving the playground at any time for any reason, students shall obtain
permission from a staff supervisor.
Use all equipment safely and appropriately. Please hold equipment until you
reach the track. Use only indoor equipment in the gym.
Boomerangs, hardballs, baseball bats and other potentially dangerous equipment
are not permitted.
No hitting, throwing, or kicking balls against any school building

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 Play fighting, physical horseplay, or bullying will not be tolerated
It is impossible to anticipate every situation that might arise on the playground.
Students should be familiar with the general school rules and how they might
apply to behavior expectations anywhere in and around the school

Public Displays of Affection

Kissing, hand holding and lounging in each others embrace are inappropriate
behaviors at school.

Vandalism/Health &Safety
Vandalism will not be tolerated and may be reported to the police.
Dangerous items should not be picked up but should be immediately reported to an
adult

Expectations/Consequences

SCHOOL DISCIPLINE: Each classroom teacher has a plan for handling discipline that
describes expectations and consequences. School expectations are reviewed periodically
and should be followed. Students may receive written referrals for not following
school/classroom expectations. When a student receives a written referral, we will begin
to follow the discipline matrix. This will include: loss of breaks and recess time, campus
beautification, being sent to a buddy room, behavior plan, check-in/check-out plan, in
school detention, and out of school suspension. Parents will be contacted for every
written referral and students will receive a copy of their referral.

CLASSROOM TIME-OUT (Buddy Room): Students sent to another classroom for a

designated time will be expected to work quietly on assignments provided by their
classroom teacher.

STUDENT BEHAVIOR REFERRAL: Written referrals may limit students attendance

on class field trips and other school activities. If a student is deemed unsafe by staff
and/or Principal due to his/her behavior, he or she will not be eligible to attend. He or she
would be expected to come to school and attend his/her regular program.

IN-SCHOOL DETENTION: Students assigned to this detention will be sent to a

Buddy classroom (or the Principals Office) for part of or the entire school day. Breaks,
Recess and Lunch will all be taken with the Buddy Teacher or Principal. Schoolwork will
be provided by the students classroom teacher(s). Where appropriate, students will
maintain their regular pull-out schedules. Students are not allowed to participate in
extracurricular activities on a day when in-school detention has been assigned.

SUSPENSION: Suspension results from major discipline issues as defined by state law
(based on California Education Code 48900) or for refusal to serve or cooperate with
previous penalties. Students are generally sent home the day of the offense with possible

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suspension of up to five days. Students on suspension are not allowed on or near school
campus or school sponsored event(s) for any reason during the suspension.

**Throughout the Discipline Plan, there are several suggested consequences for the
various offenses. The selected consequence may vary based on the severity of the
offense or repeated occurrences. Administration and staff attempt to be as
consistent as possible, but must look at each case as individual. Potential risk and
disruption to the learning environment must be considered.

Attendance

If a student is absent for illness, medical appointment, court appearance or a death in the
family, we need a note or a phone call from the parent/guardian, to the school to verify it
was an excused absence (725-3415). If the student is sick, please have the
parent/guardian call the school in the morning. If the student needs the teacher to
provide work, please let the secretary know. Work should be picked up between 3:15 and
4:00 P.M.

If a student must leave school for an appointment, a note must be brought to school that
morning and given to the school secretary. If returning the same day or arriving late, the
student must sign in at the office. Whenever possible, appointments should be arranged
for after school hours. No student may leave campus for any reason without first
obtaining permission from the secretary or the principal.

Individual students are recognized for perfect attendance at the end of each
trimester and also for the entire year. Prize drawings will occur for each trimester
for perfect attendance. Perfect attendance includes - no tardies, no unexcused
absences

TARDY PROCEDURES
With the exception of principal validation/medical/dental/court appointments,
there are no valid excuses for tardiness. Students are expected to be in their
classroom ready to begin their instructional day by 8:30 am. Changing classes
between blocks, students are expected to get to class. If students are not in class
when the teacher takes role, they will be required to go to the office for a tardy
slip. Tardy students are an inconvenience to attendance, lunch accounting and the
classroom. Students who reach 2 unexcused tardies per month will lose break
and at 4 unexcused tardies per month, students will lose lunch break and recess
and/or have to participate in campus beautification during that time. Repeated
tardies will result in the student and/or the parent/guardian meeting with the
principal.

EXCEL - After School Program

Our district will once again offer an after school consisting of tutoring, homework, sports,
arts, science, computers, and other fun activities through our EXCEL after school

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program. We focus daily on reading, math, homework, food, and fun. Enrollment forms
are available at the school office. Centers may limit enrollment depending on number of
participants and may charge a weekly fee.

Food Service
All food is to be eaten in the Cafeteria or Break Area by the playground.
Breakfast is served every morning from 8:00 - 8:20 A.M. in the cafeteria.

Students may leave campus at lunchtime ONLY to eat lunch at home (if they live close to
the school) or are under the direct supervision of their parent/guardian. Prior to a student
going home for lunch, parent/guardian must fill out the districts Lunch Time Permit
form.

Grades & Honor Roll

GOLD Card (3.6 + ) demonstrates all performance criteria, averaging As with no

Ds/Fs/NCs
SILVER Card (3.03.59) demonstrates most performance criteria, averaging Bs
with no Ds/Fs/NC
Must qualify for Student Appreciation Day Criteria to receive honor roll certificate.

An all-school awards assembly will be held at the end of each trimester to honor and
announce every student in both levels.

Progress Reports
Parent/guardians should be able to monitor their students grades and progress on the
internet (Aeries) by entering a unique user name and password (The Office will issue
each students family an ID at the beginning of the school year). Grades are updated
every other week. Progress reports are given to students at Mid-Trimester and Trimester.

Promotion/Retention
The district has a comprehensive Promotion/Retention Policy. Parents/guardians of those
students who are identified as At Risk for Retention will be notified by the end of the
first Trimester or at the earliest possible opportunity. Recommendations will be given
regarding intervention programs and/or alternative settings.

Requirements for 8th Grade Graduation

A graduation trip, ceremony, and dance are held at the close of school for those 8th grade
students who have met the district requirements for graduation and have been in regular
attendance at the school. These requirements are distributed to students and
parent/guardians at the beginning of the school year.

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Grades
To participate in graduation activities and/or receive a diploma, a student must
earn 26 credits of coursework at Fortuna Middle School. Credits are earned in
Science, History, Math, Language Arts, and P.E./Health. Students will receive
credits according to the following system:

A-Advanced = 2 credits
B-Proficient = 2 credits
C-Basic = 2 credits
D-Below Basic = 1 credit
F-Far Below Basic = 0 credits

a Each trimester a student can earn up to 2 credits per academic subject

equaling a total of ten (10) credits per trimester with a possible 30 total credits
per year.
b Students who earn 26 or more credits will be eligible for graduation, dance
and trip.
c Those students who earn less than 26 credits will not be able to participate in
the graduation ceremony, trip and dance. Students will also have to attend
summer school to make up missing credits to receive their diploma.
d Students who have reached 3 days of suspension on the year OR 1 day of
suspension in the last 6 weeks or 3 referrals in the last 6 weeks of school, will
not be able to participate in the graduation dance or trip.
e If a student owes money for any reason, the student will NOT get to
participate in the graduation dance or trip.
f Academic requirements for graduation for special education programs have
separate criteria determined by the Individual Education Plan (IEP) Team.

1. U.S. Constitution
Students are required to pass the United States Constitution test

Homework
Fortuna Union Elementary School Districts goals include promoting and developing
thinking skills and self-discipline. An important part of this educational process is
completing homework which helps students learn to set aside time for studying.

The recommended average homework time for each grade is:

Grades 5 - 6 60 minutes per night
Grades 7 - 8 90 minutes per night

Independent Study
We will provide independent study if a student knows ahead of time that he/she will be
out for 5 or more days. To request an Independent Study, please contact the office or
your childs teacher 3 days in advance of the date requested for leave so there is
adequate time to prepare your childs work. Late requests might not be accommodated.

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Lost and Found
Report the loss of any item to the office immediately. Large amounts of money and
expensive valuables such as electronic games are not allowed at school. The school is
not responsible for lost or stolen items. All lost or misplaced books will be turned into
the library. Students are advised not to leave books unattended anywhere on campus. The
student who was assigned the book will pay for any lost/damaged books. Lost and found
items other than books are located in buckets in the Cafeteria. Students should check
regularly. Left over items are periodically given to charitable organizations.

Medication Policy
The office must be notified immediately if a student has medication to take at school.
This includes inhalers. All medication must be kept in the office and dispensed by the
secretary or the health clerk in accordance with the prescription. Inhalers may be kept
with the student with the proper paperwork on file at the office.
* Parent/guardians must complete Permission to Give Medication form. This requires
verification by the physician.

Physical Education (PE) Requirements

Physical education is beneficial, enjoyable, and a required part of the state curriculum for
students. Daily participation and effort are essential for passing. If a child is unable to
participate, the parent/guardian must send a written verification. If the student is to be
excused for more than two days, a doctors verification is required.
Having the correct clothing will enhance that experience. Students do not change into
special clothing for physical education since there are no locker room facilities.
However, for students to participate in P.E., they must have non-marking rubber-soled
shoes to use in the gym. During good weather, physical education is often taught
outdoors, so students should wear (or bring) suitable shoes (heavy boots, high heels,
clogs, or sandals dont work). When girls wear dresses or skirts, they should bring
suitable clothing to wear for P.E. A pair of shorts to slip on under a dress is fine.

Student Birthdays
If the parent/guardian wishes to recognize their child's birthday, they should make
arrangements in advance with the classroom teacher. Deliveries (balloons, flowers, or
presents) are not recommended, and will remain in office until the end of the school day.
Students may pick-up after school.

Telephone Use
The office telephone may only be used by students to clear absences or in cases of
emergencies. Students who need to call home for school business may do so with their
teachers permission from the classroom. If a child is ill and the parent/guardian needs to
be contacted, the school secretary or other office personnel will call.

Textbooks/Chromebooks
Textbooks are checked out to students for their use during the school year. Textbook
replacement is very costly. Students are responsible for maintaining their books in the

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best possible condition. Books must be covered at all times and kept free of writing.
Charges will be issued for any lost or damaged books. Chromebooks will be provided to
students for use. If students damage Chromebooks, they will be responsible to replace.
Students will need to sign an internet use/agreement before use.

Music Program
Students will have the opportunity to learn a band instrument and/or participate in various
levels of band. Choir will also be offered. The music program provides an excellent
opportunity for self-expression and learning cooperation that encourages teamwork.
Teacher approval is required to participate in this pull out program.

Computer Program
Fortuna Middle School has a computer lab and computers in each class where students
can utilize the internet and a large variety of software programs. Students need to sign an
internet use agreement form to be eligible for use. Any damage to classroom
computers/chromebooks will be charged to parents.

GATE
Fortuna Middle School sponsors a program for all academically Gifted and Talented
students in 5-8 grades. Parents and community members are strongly encouraged to
participate in the planning and evaluation of this program. Please contact Mrs. Reveles at
707-725-3415 for more information.

Student Government
Student Council meets weekly to plan school activities and approve expenditures. Each
homeroom selects 2 representatives to attend meetings. The student body elects Officers
in June for the following year.

There are 5th 8th grade activities throughout the year. Student Council plans assemblies,
pep rallies, honor roll field trips, student appreciation days, other activities and
fundraisers.

Extra-Curricular Activities
Sports at FMS are very important. We want to provide a safe and fun environment for
kids to learn new skills and be active. We ask that all participants be appropriate at
practices and games. This includes audience members and coaches. We all are a
reflection of our school. Students are responsible for transportation to sporting events by
parents or parent approved rides. Coaches will be hired each year, with priority given to
FMS staff. Positions will be posted and the final decisions will be made by the Athletic
Director and Principal. We are always looking for donations towards equipment and
uniforms, so please contact us if you are interested in contributing.

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 ELIGIBILITY
Summer School has no effect on academic eligibility
Late work due to excused absences or other reasons has no effect on
academic eligibility
Academic eligibility is determined at the end of each grading period (mid
trimester and trimester)
5th 8th grade participants must maintain a C grade point average with
no Fs/NCs. The Athletic Director and/or Principal may perform
random grade checks to determine eligibility during grading periods.
Students not returning proper grade check forms will be deemed ineligible
until paperwork is turned in.
Students who fail to maintain academic eligibility for the period when
grades are checked, will be allowed to try out and practice, but not
participate in any game until the next grading period. Students shall not
become eligible by obtaining a note from a teacher, unless the teacher has
made an error in grading.
Students who fail to maintain academic eligibility during two grading
periods in a year, shall not be permitted to try out and/or participate in
extra-curricular activities for the remainder of that trimester. Students who
are suspended from class will not be eligible to participate in that days
practice or game or attend an event. Should this happen on a Friday, the
student is not eligible for Saturday or Sunday as well. Any suspensions
will be grounds for removal pending review of incident and poor
citizenship will lead to ineligibility to try out for or participate in any
extra-curricular activities until the next trimester or remainder of the year.
Students must attend at least a portion of the school day (no less than one
hour) to be eligible to participate in the days game, practice or event.
Please review the District Athletic Code of Conduct and District Athletic
Packet for more information.

Visitors and Volunteers

Parent/guardians are welcome and encouraged to visit school and to participate in the
instructional programs as volunteers.
To ensure minimum interruption of the instructional program, visits during school
hours should be first arranged with the teacher and principal or designee. If a
conference is desired, an appointment should be set with the teacher during non-
instructional time.
To ensure the safety of students and staff and avoid potential disruptions, all
visitors shall register immediately upon entering any school building or grounds
when school is in session.
No electronic listening or recording device may be used by volunteers or visitors
in a classroom.

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 Table of Contents
Fortuna Elementary School District Rules
Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports 1
Student Appreciation Day 2
Bikes, Skateboards and other Wheeled Toys 2
Cafeteria
2
Cell Phones 3
Dress Code 3
Gum 4
Inappropriate Language 4
Library /Computer Lab
4 Playground
4
PDA 5
Vandalism 5

Expectations/Consequences 5

School Procedures
Attendance 6
EXCEL 6
Food Service 7
Grades & Honor Roll 7
Progress Reports 7
Promotion/Retention 7
8th Grade Graduation Requirements 7
Grades 8
Homework 8
Independent Study 8
Lost & Found 9
Medications 9
Physical Education 9
Student Birthdays 9
Telephone Use 9
Textbooks and Chromebooks 9
Music Program 10
Computer Program 10
GATE 10
Student Government
10
Extra-Curricular Activities 10
Visitors and Volunteers 11

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Calendar and Class Schedules
DRAFT 2016/17 District Calendar 12
DRAFT 2016/17 Class Schedule 13

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Fortuna Middle
School

Student Rules
&
Behavior Guide

15
2016-2017

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