STUDENT HANDBOOK

2021-2022

 

Principal’s Message

 

Welcome to Andrew Jackson Middle School (AJMS). This year we will again work and learn together to ensure the success of every child who attends AJMS by raising our expectations. We will achieve extraordinary results by making an extra effort in every task we undertake.

 

This Student Planner and Handbook will assist you with organization. It will also serve as a reference tool regarding our school policies and procedures. You are required to use the Planner section of this book on a daily basis to record homework and extracurricular activity dates. In the same way, your parent(s) must check the Planner daily to assist you in attaining a rewarding middle school experience.

 

The Middle School Years serve as the time in a student’s school career when girls become young women, and boys become young men. Thus, middle school students are expected to act in a respectful, responsible, and positive manner.

 

Our faculty and staff are committed to continuous education and strive to achieve knowledge through personal and professional development. We believe that through modeling our examples, we will enable the students at AJMS to become lifelong learners who excel in all their endeavors. Your daily academic successes, standardized test scores, social interactions, behavior, attendance, and verbal expressions will serve as indicators of your beliefs regarding your personal growth and success.

 

The 2020-2021 school year will be filled with growth, knowledge, fun, and success. We will form a union/triangulation among students, parents, and the faculty and staff of AJMS. The union/triangulation will be based on respect and professionalism. I look forward to the rewarding and educational experience we will share as a community of learners.

 

GENERAL SCHOOL INFORMATION

MISSION

It is our mission to cultivate students academically and socially by providing a safe, supportive, and positive learning environment.  We hold all students to the highest expectations so they will become lifelong learners and productive members of a global society.

VISION

Guided by our core values of respect, responsibility, persistence and achievement; the Andrew Jackson Middle School community is committed to our mission of providing all students with the tools to become lifelong learners and productive members of a global society. This is accomplished through collaboration among faculty and staff members, students, families, and the community working together to provide the necessary resources and support to produce a safe, supportive and positive educational environment and maintaining the highest standards of academic and social excellence.

Andrew Jackson Middle School recognizes that parent/family involvement is essential as we partner to educate our students and prepare them for life-long learning.  Together, families working alongside our school educators, we can support student learning and growth.  

It is our intention to cultivate and support active family involvement through a number of different ways:

 

SchoolStatus: An Easier Way to Connect With Us

Starting with the 2020-2021 school year, our educators will begin using a new platform called SchoolStatus to connect with parents. This means that all teachers, counselors, and administrators throughout our district will be reaching out using this new communications tool. Here are a few answers to some common questions:

 

• Do I need to download an app? No. Calls and texts may come from a number you don’t recognize, but that is your direct line to the educator contacting you.
• If I respond to a text, who gets the message? The educator who contacted you! You’re not responding to an entire group. It’s a 1:1 message.
• If I miss a call, can I call the number back? Yes! You may leave a message for the educator who called, or text that same number and know you’ll reach the educator who called you.
• How does the system know my phone number or email? SchoolStatus will utilize the contact information in the school’s student system. It is critical that your phone number and email address are accurate and up-to-date. Please contact your school secretary if your contact information has changed.

 

School and District Websites

Our school and district websites provide families the most up-to-date information regarding school operations, school and district policies, upcoming events, and announcements. You can find our school website by visiting www.sbpsb.org/andrewjackson.

Teachers will also be posting important information regarding assignments, tests, class resources, and other helpful reminders and announcements to their Teacher Web Pages. You can find your child’s teacher web page by visiting the “Teachers” channel on our school website.

Social Media Accounts

Andrew Jackson utilizes Facebook to communicate with our families and community. Please be sure to “like” our school and district Facebook page to get the latest information about what is happening within our schools.

Monthly Calendar

A school calendar of events, grade level curriculum information, tips for parents from the counselor, and the Principal’s newsletter will be distributed to parents monthly.

Student Handbook

This handbook contains the policies and procedures, yearly parish calendar, and other pertinent information of Andrew Jackson Middle School. 

Parent Teacher Organization

Parents are invited to join the PTO and to volunteer their time and talents by participating in the many school functions and programs throughout the year.  Taking part in PTO and school activities is an excellent opportunity to show your interest in your child’s education. Attendance at PTO meetings is greatly encouraged.

Progress Reports and Report Cards

Progress Reports are issued midway through each nine-week period.  They are designed to help parents monitor their child’s progress before report cards are issued.  Progress Reports must be signed and returned to the homeroom teacher within 3 days or a Class I referral will be issued.

Report Cards are issued each nine weeks and include academic grades, conduct grades, and attendance.

Report Card Conference

The first nine-week report card is issued directly to the parent during Report Card Conferences.  This is an important opportunity for parents to meet with their child’s teachers to discuss his/her progress.

Parent-Teacher Conferences

Parents need not wait until a problem has developed before making an appointment to speak with their child’s teacher.  They should get to know the teachers and feel free to ask questions about any phase of the curriculum which they would like to discuss. The home and the school are both interested in what is best for the students.

Agenda

The student assignment agenda is an excellent mode of written communication between parents and teachers.  A comment section is located at the bottom of each page of the agenda.  The school encourages the use of this section.  Parents should monitor the use of the student agenda as this is a good indication of homework compliance. The cost to replace an agenda is $10.

Parent-Administrative Conference

Any student or parent having a complaint or grievance concerning a student should first contact the school to make an appointment with the teacher.  If further attention is necessary, contact the counselor or administration.  The administration is always open to matters concerning students.

Home-Access Center (HAC)

Parents may utilize the Home Access Center by visiting our school or district websites. The Home Access Center (HAC) will give parents access to current information regarding your child’s schedule, attendance, class work, interim progress report, report card grades, test scores and registration information.

No Place For Hate School

Andrew Jackson Middle School has implemented a bullying prevention program in which students are taught to accept diversity and respect differences. Additionally, students are taught to be cognizant of their actions, words, and the manner in which they affect other people. Parents are asked to discuss the program with their children and reinforce all concepts in order to ensure that students who attend Andrew Jackson Middle School are exhibiting respectful, responsible, and positive attributes at school, at home, and in the community.

Clever

Clever is an easy way for children to log in and learn with all of the online programs they use at school. With their own personal portals, students can learn with resources selected by their teacher and district. Andrew Jackson Middle uses Clever so our students can have all of their digital resources in one place. Clever also eliminates the need to remember multiple usernames and passwords.  The link for our Clever site can be found by visiting the Quick Links on our school website.

Curriculum

The curriculum at Andrew Jackson Middle School determines the plan for learning.  The subjects offered are those required by the Louisiana BESE (Board of Elementary and Secondary Education) as well as those considered important for the total growth of our students. 

            Required Subjects:

Reading/Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, Science, Physical Education, and Keyboarding

            Elective Subjects:

Art, Band, Choir, and Journey to Careers 

Principal’s, Scholar, and Merit List

The Principal’s List is achieved by earning an “A” in all subjects and in conduct.  The Scholars’ List is achieved by earning a 3.5-3.99 GPA without a “C” in any class or in conduct.  The Merit List is achieved by earning a 3.0-3.49 without a “C” in any class or in conduct.

Honors Program

The Honors Program offers qualified students a more intensive and challenging course of study.  An Honors student’s academic progress is reviewed each nine weeks to determine continued placement. Students may be placed in a full honors schedule or subject specific placement if standardized test scores show that a student has strength in a particular area.  Placement of eighth grade students in English I and/or Algebra I for high school credit will be determined at the end of the school year. Criteria for placing eighth grade students in Algebra I and/or English I include:

• A final grade of “B” or better in 7^th grade Reading/Language Arts for English I;
• A final grade of “B” or better in 7^th grade pre-Algebra for Algebra I;
• A score of Mastery or Advanced on the ELA section of the 7^th grade standardized test for English I;
• A score of Mastery or Advanced on the mathematics section of the 7^th grade standardized test for Algebra I;
• A score in the 7^th stanine or better on the 7^th grade standardized test for total reading for English I;
• A score in the 7^th stanine or better on the 7^th grade standardized test for total math for Algebra I;
• Qualifying score on State Algebra pre-test given at the end of the 7^th grade year.

Placement of students in English I and/or Algebra I is probationary pending student performance during the first and second nine-week grading periods.

Positive Behavior Intervention Support

Our school participates in a Positive Behavior Intervention Support Program.  This program is designed to reward students who consistently demonstrate RESPONSIBLE, RESPECTFUL and POSITIVE behavior.  Students can earn rewards throughout the school year.

Student of the Week

Each week one student from each grade level is chosen as Andrew Jackson Middle School’s “Student of the Week”.  These students are nominated by one of their teachers for demonstrating excellence in areas such as academic achievement, leadership, effort and participation.

Student of the Year

The Student of the Year Awards Program is designed to recognize outstanding 8^th grade students.  This program is a great way for our school to celebrate those students who have demonstrated excellent academic achievements, leadership ability, and citizenship. 

In order to be considered, a student must at minimum meet the following criteria:

• Student G.P.A. 6^th – 8^th grade must be in the top 15% of the class and be no less than a 3.1
• LEAP test scores must demonstrate proficiency at grade level
• Student conduct embodies the school culture and values
• Student should be involved in extracurricular activities inside or outside of school

Andrew Jackson’s Student of the Year process begins in the early fall. Candidates must complete an application, submit an on sight writing sample, and be interviewed.   If there is a dispute regarding the selection of a candidate, please contact your school principal directly. 

Terrific Teen

Twice a year, selected students are recognized for their efforts as a “Terrific Teen”.  These students are chosen by their teachers and awarded certificates in recognition of their unique qualities.  The ceremony consists of parent/guardian, the principal, assistant principal, sponsors of St. Bernard Safe and Drug Free Schools, St. Bernard/ Arabi Kiwanis Club, and Chalmette Refining L.L.C.

Homework

A homework assignment relevant to the objectives taught will be assigned each night in all required and elective courses.  Each written assignment should take approximately 15-20 minutes.    Assignments will be checked and recorded in the teachers’ grade book.  Students are expected to complete all assignments.

If a student is absent, he/she is responsible for completing missed assignments, whether excused or unexcused.  The teacher will determine a reasonable amount of time in which make-up work will be accepted. 

Parents are asked to supervise homework to see that it is completed.  When circumstances require it, parents may be asked to sign homework and/or agendas before they are brought to class. The consequences for a pattern of not doing homework are serious and are addressed in the Guide to Student Conduct.

A nine-week cumulative homework grade will represent 15% of the nine-week grade.

Grading

Benchmark assessments will be given at the end of each nine-week period and normally represent 25% of the nine-week grade.  Typically, another 40% of a student’s grade is from test and quizzes, 15% is from homework, and 20% is a daily class work or participation grade.   Teachers will assess each student’s behavior during a given period and will assign an appropriate conduct grade.

Procedures for Promotion

A student’s four nine-weeks grades are averaged for a final grade for the year.  The student’s final average must be equivalent to at least one quality point in order to pass the subject.  However, if a student receives an “F” for the fourth nine weeks and an “F” for any one of the other three grading periods, the final grade will be an “F”.  This policy is designed to ensure a consistent effort by students throughout the school year.

Example:

            1^st        2^nd       3^rd        4^th        Final

            A          A         F          F           F

            A          F         A         F           F

            F           A         A         F           F

 

Students who receive an “F” in any one or two promotional subjects (reading/language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies) will be required to attend and pass summer school remediation.  Students who receive an “F” in any three promotional subjects will be retained at their present grade level.

Standardized Test Requirements

All 6^th ,7^th , and 8^th grade students are required to take standardized assessments at the end of the year. Performance on these tests will determine whether a student will be scheduled for remediation classes and/or summer school. 

Dress Code Guidelines

The St. Bernard Parish School Board requires that students appear at school in the officially adopted school uniform and groomed in an appropriate manner.  Students are required to wear their official student identification card at all times.  ID’s are to be worn appropriately, facing forward, and must not be defaced or damaged in any way (including stickers, writing, or coloring). Consequences will be issued if ID procedures are not followed. Socks must be visible.  Skirts must not be shorter than to the top of the knee. Pants may not be too tight nor too baggy.  Additionally, pants cannot be jean material, leggings, cargo, joggers or corduroy.  They must be navy blue or khaki. Any article of clothing, accessories (personalized name plates may not exceed two inches), hairstyles, or makeup determined by the principal or teachers to be disruptive, directly or indirectly, to the learning process will not be allowed.

It is important to remember that a modest appearance is the determining factor of appropriateness of middle school dress.  Please refer to the St. Bernard Parish Public Schools’ “Guide to Student Conduct” for specific uniform requirements.

Attendance Policy

School attendance plays an important role in the educational success of our students.  According to the St. Bernard Parish School Board attendance policy, a student who misses more than 14 days, excused or unexcused, in a school year will not be promoted to the next grade.  Incentive programs are in place at the school level to encourage students to achieve a 95% or higher attendance rate.  Please make every effort to have students present each day.

Students who are absent are required to make up work missed in each class.  If a student is out for only one or two days, upon return to school, he/she must obtain and complete missed assignments.  We advise the use of the “Buddy System” whereby the student has a friend in each class whom he/she can call for assignments. This agenda provides a space for that purpose.  He/she will be given two days to complete and hand in these assignments.  It is the responsibility of the student and the parents to see that the work is completed.

A student’s absence may be excused only within five days of his/her return to school. It is state law that personal illness (as verified by a doctor), verified death in the family, or extenuating circumstances (as agreed to by the principal) are the only basis for excusing an absence.

Upon the student’s return to school, a written excuse MUST be presented to the homeroom teacher.  The note should be DATED and SIGNED by the parent/guardian and include the child’s full name, dates of absences, and the nature of illness or reason for the absence.

In the case of prolonged absence (three or more days), parents should call the office before 9:00 A.M. for missed class work and homework so that the work can be prepared and ready for pickup within 24 hours. Based on the number of days absent and amount of work missed, a reasonable amount of time will be allowed for its completion.

The school strongly discourages family vacations/trips during the school year.  If the parent chooses to remove a child for this reason, assignments will not be given ahead of time.  No tests or nine-week exams will be rescheduled unless there is a documented medical reason or an emergency.

Students are eligible to receive Perfect Attendance provided that tardiness and early dismissals do not exceed one-half day (2 hours and 30 minutes). However, check-in and check-out minutes are cumulative.

Tardiness

If a student arrives on campus after the homeroom bell, he/she must report WITH A PARENT to the front office to sign in.  The student must have their agenda signed to report to class, it will state the time of arrival. The student must present the signed agenda upon reporting to his/her currently scheduled class. Habitual, unexcused tardies will result in disciplinary action. Students need to be in class and seated in their desks BEFORE the 8:00 tardy bell rings.

Campus Procedures

Keep to the right when walking the hallways. Move promptly from one class to another and to and from lunch. Excessive noise should always be avoided. Breakfast is silent, as well as hallways while waiting for the homeroom bell to ring. Running, horse playing, or other aggressive behavior in the courtyards, hallways, and bus loading area are not allowed at any time. Display good manners at all times.  Public displays of affection are not allowed.

Our #1 rule at Andrew Jackson Middle School - KEEP YOUR HANDS, FEET, AND OBJECTS TO YOURSELF.

Transportation

Riding a school bus is a privilege.  Students who refuse to obey safety rules and regulations may be suspended and/or lose transportation privileges.  Please refer to the St. Bernard Parish Public Schools “Guide to Student Conduct” for transportation policies.

Hall Passes

No student will be allowed out of class unless he/she has a signed agenda or a hall pass properly filled out by a teacher.

Students are to use the restroom before school, during PE, during lunch time, during change of classes with teacher permission, or after school.  A student will be given a hall pass only during an extreme emergency or if the student has a doctor’s or parent’s note properly authorized by the office. 

Lockers

Each student MAY rent his/her own hall locker for $5.00.  The sharing of hall lockers is NOT permitted.  Likewise, students are not to share their combination with anyone.  Money and valuables should never be placed in hall lockers.  The school is not responsible for items lost or stolen from lockers.

Students may go to their lockers ONLY at these times:

1. a) before homeroom
2. b) before lunch
3. c) after school

Cafeteria

Walk quickly and form single lines on either side of the cafeteria.  Have student ID ready so that lines will move faster.  Students without a proper ID will be moved to the back of the line.

After receiving their lunch, students must be seated immediately. STUDENTS ARE NOT TO LINGER OR WAIT FOR FRIENDS.  Using good table manners will provide a pleasant atmosphere for everyone.  Good table manners EXCLUDE loud talking, playing with food, and other disruptive behaviors.  When students have finished eating, any mess must be cleaned up, and trays must be stacked in the designated area.

Our school participates in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program. This program provides one breakfast and one lunch each school day to all students enrolled in the schools listed. Adults and employees will be charged for meals at the rate below. Please note that there is a cost for “extra milk and/or juice” (see prices below). These items CAN NOT be charged to an account.

Adult Visitor Breakfast: $2.50

Adult Visitor Lunch: $4.50

Extra Milk or Juice: $.35

Bottled Water: $1.00

Sides: $.50

Important Notes:

• Canned and/or bottled beverages are not allowed in the cafeteria.
• Commercially prepared food is not allowed (McDonald’s, Burger King, etc.)

Assemblies

General assemblies are held throughout the school year and may include special presentations, awards ceremonies, pep rallies, and guest speakers.  Conduct in the assembly area must be courteous and orderly.  Strict attention should be given to all speakers.  Appropriate audience response is expected.

Dismissal

In the interest of safety, those students who ride the bus are to sit in their bus line behind the yellow lines in the bus loading area while waiting to board the bus.  Students are to form a single-file line without pushing and are to wait until the bus has stopped completely and the driver has opened the door before boarding the bus.  Students who do not ride a bus should be picked up in front of the school.  Students are to wait for their ride on the student plaza and are not to step into the street until their ride has arrived.

Field Trips

Field trips are offered to students throughout the year.  These field trips may have an academic focus or may be incentive based, such as homework compliance, perfect attendance, etc.  Students must also meet academic and conduct guidelines in order to attend.  It is requested that parents do not check students out early upon returning from a field trip.  Students must return a signed permission note before attending any field trip.  Students/chaperones must dress appropriately and should represent themselves and the school in a very positive manner. Additionally, all fees must be paid in order to attend field trips.

Materials Fee

The St. Bernard Parish School Board has authorized each school to collect a $15.00 fee from each student for the purchase of consumable classroom materials.  The money will be used for the purchase of instructional aids, workbooks, assignment books, Scholastic news magazines, student supplies, and/or equipment for reproducing student worksheets.  Students who owe the school for materials fees or other debts are not eligible to participate in extracurricular activities or field trips unless permission is given by the principal.  Any parent who finds that paying the fee causes financial hardship may call the principal at 301-1500. 

Fees and Fines

Andrew Jackson Middle may impose certain student fees or charges to help offset special costs incurred in the operation of specific classrooms or subjects. Generally, students should not be denied or delayed admission nor denied access to any curricular instructional activity due to failure or inability of their parent or guardian to pay a fee.  Report cards and other academic records cannot be withheld for failure to pay a fee pursuant to state law.   

A full copy of our Student Fees, Fines and Charges policy can be found on the school and district website by visiting the For Families tab and clicking on Student Fees Policy.  A student or his/her parent or legal guardian may request and receive a waiver of payment of a fee due to economic hardship.  Completed waivers and the corresponding documentation must be submitted to your student’s school principal.  For families with students in multiple schools, separate waivers and documentation must be provided at each school. Families with multiple students at the same school can complete one waiver. The form must be completed yearly during enrollment, registration, or orientation. Please note that the waiver will be applied to fees associated with curricular activities only. Fees associated with extracurricular activities are not covered by the waiver.

Textbooks

Students must pay for lost or damaged textbooks and library books.  Students must have their assigned textbook at all times. If a student loses any textbook, he/she must purchase a replacement. Replacement cost for Math and English is $20, Science is $54, 6^th grade - World History - $60, 7^th grade- The American Journey - $70, 8^th grade- Louisiana History - $50, and Journey To Careers - $45.00.

Lost Articles

All personal articles should be labeled with the student’s first and last name.  Students may look for lost articles in the “Lost and Found” area located in the office lobby.  This should be done during lunch.  Periodically, unclaimed items will be donated to Goodwill.

Care of property

Students are expected to care for school property as if it were their own.  This includes courtyard equipment, books, lavatories, buildings, etc.  School property that is lost or damaged must be paid for by the student who is responsible.  Keep school grounds litter-free.  Trash cans are never far away.

Student Insurance

Insurance is offered by a reliable company to each student.  A reasonable premium is charged which covers the cost of the policy for the school year.  Students who are involved in extra-curricular activities are REQUIRED to carry student insurance.

Illness

If a student becomes ill while in class, the teacher will notify the front office and a parent will be called.  The student will remain in class until the parent arrives.

Dispensing of Prescription Drugs

Prescription drugs are administered in a controlled environment by a nurse or trained aide.  If a child requires medication of any kind during school hours, parents should contact the Health Services Office (200 E. St. Bernard Hwy. between 8:30 A.M. and 3:00 P.M.) and complete the necessary documents.  In addition to unauthorized prescription drugs, over the counter medication is prohibited on campus.

Drills

Fire, tornado, lockdown, and other drills are conducted monthly so students will be prepared in the event of a disaster.  During these drills, students must remain absolutely quiet and follow the instructions of the teacher. 

Accident/ Injury Procedure

When a student at Andrew Jackson is injured and the injury is deemed to be of a very serious nature, the following plan will go into effect: The principal, assistant principal, or nurse on site will examine the student’s injury. 

Emergency first aid will be administered to offer temporary relief for the person injured.  The student’s guardian will be called.  If deemed necessary, 9-1-1 will be called.  If a person is badly injured, the paramedics will come to the site where the person was injured.

Withdrawal from School

If it becomes necessary to withdraw a student from school, the office should be notified several days prior to the actual day of withdrawal.  When requested by the principal of the new school, report cards, health records, and grade sheets (if the student has been present ten days of the grading period) will be sent. 

Visitors

Parents or visitors must secure permission from the office before entering any classroom or contacting a teacher on the school grounds.  Please enter the building through the office to secure a visitor’s pass.  No other person will be permitted on the school grounds or in the building without permission from the School Board.

Counseling

Students are offered individual, group, and peer counseling.  Academic and developmental concerns may also be addressed through counseling.  Students are always welcome to consult the counselor regarding individual concerns. Similarly, parent requests are welcome.  Students may also be referred to outside agencies when deemed necessary.

School-to Career

Career education is an integral part of the overall curriculum.  Emphasis is placed on early career exploration in all subject areas.

Library

The library will be open during lunch.  At this time, students are allowed in the library to read, study, or access the Internet. Students will be scheduled to visit the library through ELA classes.

Students may check out two books at a time. If more than two books are needed, special permission must be obtained.  Most books may be kept for a period of two weeks and renewed once unless otherwise arranged.

When returning books, it is important for students to drop them in the “Book Return Box”.  Books may be returned at any time.  Students do not need to wait until library day to return books.  It is the student’s responsibility to see that books are returned on time.  A fine for most books of ten cents per school day per book will be charged when books are kept beyond the due date.  The only exception is if a student is absent from school for the entire day on the date the book is due.  No fine will be charged if the book is returned the first day the student returns to school.  The student must pay for lost or damaged books. 

Guide to Student Conduct

The St. Bernard Parish School Board issues the “Guide to Student Conduct”.  This guide describes the discipline policies and dress codes mandated by the school board.  Included in the guide is information on proper school bus behavior and the parish’s student sexual harassment policy.  Parents must sign the first three pages of this guide indicating that the parent has read the guide, given permission for disclosure of directory information, and given permission for their child to access the Internet.

Behavior Code

The Andrew Jackson Middle School Behavior Code is as follows:

1. I will be in my class, seated and ready to work, when the tardy bell rings.
2. I will respect the following:

• Opinions and responses of others
• Personal property of others
• School property

3. I will listen quietly and respond when given permission.
4. I will learn by remaining in my seat, staying on task, and following directions.
5. I will bring home learning supplies/materials and return to school with them.

Detention Procedures

After-School Detentions are required to be served on the assigned date.  Students are given at least 24-hours notice and should arrange for transportation home.  Failure to serve the detention on the assigned date will result in a Class II referral.  If the student is absent on the day of the detention, it must be served on the first detention date of his\her return.  Detentions are held in the cafeteria on Tuesday and Thursday. However, teachers may hold their own detentions on any day of the week. Friday detentions are held weekly and Saturday detentions are held bi-weekly.

In-School Suspension

Andrew Jackson Middle School has implemented an In-School Suspension (ISS) Program in order to maintain a safe and orderly environment. Students assigned to ISS will be served a bag lunch. Additionally, students must remain in the ISS room for the entire duration of the suspension and may not interact with other students in the building. Students who misbehave in ISS will receive additional consequences.

Gum and Sunflower Seeds

Gum and sunflower seeds are not permitted anywhere on the school premises and is considered a disciplinary infraction. Students may receive an Administrative Saturday detention for possessing or chewing/ eating these. Careless disposal of these items are unsightly and unsanitary, causes cleaning problems, and necessitates costly repairs.

Student Organizations

Students who stay after school for meetings, practices, activities, etc. must have made prior arrangements for pickup.  Failure to do so may result in a student’s elimination from future participation in after school activities. Students in middle school are expected to be more responsible for communicating their schedules with their parents.  If a student is absent from school, he/she is not allowed to participate in school sponsored activities after school for that day. Students are not to be checked out early to prepare for any after-school function or activity.

Academic Games - Players compete in four education-based games.  “Onsets and Equations” games are based on mathematics, “Presidents” is history-based, and “Propaganda” is based on the analysis of language.  These games enrich academic studies and teach higher-level thinking skills.  Local and national competition is available for dedicated players.  Any interested student is encouraged to join.

Art Club - Students meet to participate in lessons in visual art on a more individualized basis than is possible in the classroom.  However, the Art Club is open to all students.  High standards of conduct and at least a “C” average must be maintained.

Athletics- Activities are offered to both boys and girls.  Organized competitive sports for girls include volleyball, basketball, softball, and cross country.  Organized competitive sports for boys include football, basketball, baseball, and cross country.  Intramural sports are also available to students during lunch.

Band - Membership is open to all students through band class.  Students must start in Beginner Band and may progress to Advanced Band.  Performance opportunities include the Christmas and spring concerts, parades, and football games.  Band members are required to attend all after-school practices and performances.

Cheerleaders - The cheerleaders are a group that promotes school spirit.  Cheerleaders perform at sports events, parades, and other school functions.  Tryouts are held each year.  High standards of conduct and at least a “C” average are expected and must be maintained.

Chorus – The Glee Club is open to and required of all students enrolled in chorus classes. The Chorus performs for the Christmas and spring concerts and community events, such as Community Christmas and Art in April.  Members must attend after-school rehearsals and maintain satisfactory grades in Chorus class.

Dance Team - The Colonelettes Dance Team is open to all students who meet audition requirements.  Dancers must maintain at least a “C” average and a high standard of conduct.  Try-outs are held each year.  The Colonelettes promote school spirit by performing at pep rallies, football games, and special events.  The dance team also participates in at least one competitive event each year.

Drama – The Colonel Cast drama club is open to all students by audition.  Members of the Colonel Cast present one major production each spring.  They may also have opportunities for public speaking or other presentations. Members must maintain high academic standards and positive behavior.

Flag Team/Majorettes - The Golden Guard promotes school spirit by performing at various school functions. During performances, this group may be seen twirling one or two batons or ribbons and flags.  This team also competes in at least one state competition each year.  High standards of conduct and at least a “C” average are expected and must be maintained.

4-H - This is a service organization.  The club provides help to others when needed.  Members of the club participate in projects sponsored by Louisiana Cooperative Extension, such as the Bicycle Rodeo, the Pet Show, and the FCLT camp.

Jr. BETA Club - Its purpose is to encourage effort and reward merit among students and to promote those qualities of character that represent good citizenship in the school community.  Membership consists of students in all grades that maintain a 3.2 or higher grade point average.  They are selected based on worthy character, academic standing, credible achievement, and commendable attitude.

Library Club - Members learn about the functions of the library and assist in carrying out those functions. High standards of conduct and at least a “C” average are expected and must be maintained.

Math Club- The Math Club is open to all students who are interested in learning and experimenting with different math concepts.  Students will participate in competitions, projects, games, and computer activities.  Opportunities to tutor other students are given to club members.  Field trips designed to enhance math exploration and community service are planned each year.  Students must maintain at least a “C” average and have no disciplinary problems.

Science Club - This club is open to all students who are interested in learning and experimenting with different science concepts.  Students generate ideas and test their hypotheses with various experiments.  Field trips may be taken and various weekend activities required.  Students must maintain a “C” average and have no disciplinary problems.

Student Council - Its purpose is to promote leadership qualities within the student body through elected homeroom representatives, grade level senators, and officers.  Officers and representatives provide information to the student body, participate in extra-curricular activities, and raise funds to benefit the school.  The Student Council is a decision-making body, having opportunities to express views on positive changes within a voice in school improvements. High standards of conduct and at least a “C” average are expected and must be maintained.

Yearbook Club - This club offers students a great learning experience.  Not only do students enjoy getting together to laugh while sorting pictures, they also learn about deadlines, copy layouts, and typesetting.  These skills help prepare students for life in the business world.  Yearbook Club meets once or twice weekly, depending on deadlines. 

Additional clubs such as the Cooking Club, Anime Club, Robotics, Recycling Club, Gardening Club, and Newspaper Club are conducted throughout the year.

 

Emergency Closing of Schools

 

In the event that school will be closed, the Superintendent will announce the closure and information will be shared on our school and district websites, social media accounts, and with local news outlets.

If schools are closed during the school day, buses will transport all bus riders to their usual stops. Please make arrangements for someone to be home to meet your child. Students who are normally picked up by parents will not be released until a parent has been contacted and that parent informs the school whether a family member or friend will pick up the child. 

In the event of an emergency school closure, parents/guardians will be contacted using our Emergency Call System. In order for families to be contacted, they must have a current and accurate telephone number in our system. It is critical that parents notify our front office of any changes to phone numbers.