A Comprehensive Guide to - Spencer

Spencer-Van Etten
Middle School
Home of the Panthers
Parent Handbook
2016-2017
Spencer-Van Etten Middle School
1 Center St.
Spencer, NY 14883
Our District Believes...
IN A SAFE, RESPECTFUL AND TRUSTING ENVIRONMENT
· In respecting social, racial, ethnic differences and diversity of opinion
· Everyone is entitled to a safe, supportive and nurturing environment
IN PURSUING EXCELLENCE
· The pursuit of excellence is essential to success
· Learning is the focus of the school
· Effective teachers foster student success
· Health and wellness are critical to learning
THAT ALL INDIVIDUALS CAN LEARN
· Each student has a unique set of needs that must be met as well as a unique set of talents/or abilities that
must be championed in order for all students to access opportunities to reach their potential
· There are multiple modes of learning and multiple measures of student success
· In order to foster the lifelong love of learning, learning must be enjoyable and meaningful
IN BUILDING HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS
· Instilling a healthy competitive nature in our children is part of the educational process
· Healthy family, community and school relationships enable success for all
· Our school community will provide a social, emotional, and supportive structure
IN POSITIVE INVOLVEMENT
· Family, community and school involvement is an integral part of a successful educational process
· Students and teachers will actively engage in the educational process
IN HUMAN DIGNITY
· Every individual has value
· Every individual has something to contribute
· Every individual needs to be treated with dignity
IN COMMUNICATING EFFECTIVELY
· Effective communication is essential for success
· Effective communication promotes engagement
IN RESPONSIBILITY
· We all play a role in fiscal responsibility in our community, schools and homes
· All students should leave our system with a sense of civic and environmental responsibility, moral
courage, integrity and self-respect as well as a set of critical thinking skills
SVE Middle School Learning Creed
I am a Spencer-Van Etten student.
I have high expectations for myself.
Today I will be the best that I can be.
Yesterday’s failures are behind me.
Today’s successes are before me.
I will make today the very best day.
I accept responsibility for my behavior.
I control my destiny.
I am a Panther!
We are…Panthers!
STUDENT CALENDAR 2016-2017
SEPTEMBER 2016
SUN
MON
4
TUE
5
WED
6
OCTOBER 2016
THU
7
FRI
SAT
SUN
1
2
3
8
9
10
MON
2
TUE
6
7
11
12
13
14
1
8
15
18
19
20
21
22
25
26
27
28
29
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
30
31
NOVEMBER 2016
TUE
6
7
13
14
20
21
27
28
WED
DECEMBER 2016
THU
1
2
8
9
FRI
3
SAT
SUN
MON
TUE
MON
5
10 No 11
School
15
16 ½ day 17
18
P/T Conf
22 No 23 No 24 No 25
School
School
School
29 ½ day 30
P/T Conf
12
4
5
6
19
11
12
26
18
19
TUE
1 No
2
School
8
9
WED
7
8
9
10
13
14
15
16
17
20
21
22 No 23
School
25 No 26 No 27 No 28 No 29 No 30
School
School
School
School
School
24
FRI
SAT
SUN
MON
TUE
7
10
11
12
13
14
5
6
15 No 16
School
22
23
17
18
19
20
21
12
24
25
26
27
28
29
31
FRI
SAT
3
4
10
11
17
18
25
6
7
12
13
14
8 ½ day 9
P/T Conf
15
16
19
20
21
22
23
24
26
27
28
29
30
31
WED
SAT
3
4
7
8
9
10
11
13
14
15
16
17
18
19 No 20
School
26
27
21
22
23
24
25
28
MON
TUE
WED
THU
FRI
SAT
1
2
3
4
7
8
9 No 10 No 11 No 12 No 13 No 14
School
School
School
School
School
16 No 17
18
19
20
21
School
23
24
25
26
27
28
30
15
MAY 2017
TUE
FRI
2
SUN
2
5
MON
THU
APRIL 2017
THU
1
SUN
WED
1
MARCH 2017
WED
31
FEBRUARY 2017
THU
6
TUE
SAT
3
5
MON
FRI
2
4
SUN
THU
1
3
30
WED
4
JANUARY 2017
SUN
SAT
5
12
MON
FRI
4
11
SUN
THU
3
9 No 10
School
16
17
Welcome
WED
5
6
22
29
JUNE 2017
THU
FRI
SAT
SUN
MON
TUE
WED
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
4
5
6
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
11
12
21
22
23
24
25 No 26
School
27
18
28
No 29
School
30
31
25
THU
FRI
SAT
1
2
3
7
8
9
10
13
14
15
16
17
19
20
21
22
24
26
27
28
29
23
Last Day
30
Spencer-Van Etten Middle School Staff
2016-2017
Office Areas
Eric Knolles
Larry Bleck
Caroline Frisbie
Zach Holmes
Donna Gulde
Dan Craven
Lara Rogan
Jack Wiiki
Jennifer Swayze
Principal
Dean of Students
Secretary
Secretary
Nurse
Guidance Counselor
Social Worker/Counselor
Planning Room Supervisor
Volunteer Coordinator
Fifth Grade
Alana Ackley
Emily Cron
Enock Francois
Ricky Lindblad
Rob Myers
Stephanie Panfel
Amanda Rice
Math & Science
Humanities & Literacy
Student Support
Teaching Assistant
Math & Science
Humanities & Literacy
Teaching Assistant
Sixth Grade
Toni Bloss
Tammy Crissey
Nicole DeLaney
Korie Fitzgerald
Kimberly Haney
Jeannette Luther
Math & Science
Teaching Assistant
Humanities & Literacy
Student Support
Math & Science
Humanities & Literacy
7th Grade
James Carmony
Rick Decker
John Everett
Katy Gimma
Emily Meyer
Katherine Richards
Anni Ryan
Humanities
Science
Humanities
Science LTS
Math
Student Support
Teaching Assistant
8th Grade
Brenda Anderson
Doreen Decker
Lisa Evertts
Leslee Lindhorst
Bret McDermott
Laurie Morrell
Mallory Ryan
Student Support
Teaching Assistant
French & Spanish
Math
Humanities
Humanities
Science
Student Support
Pam Brock
Angie. Holmes
Katie Maitland
Ruth Burlew
Jessica Campolito
Sarah Fisher
Math
Literacy
Special Education
Teaching Assistant
Teaching Assistant
Teaching Assistant
Special Areas
Dana Bennett
David Campbell
Maggie Childs
Dewitt Grove
Alex Hanessian
Linda Hollenbeck
Zach Holmes
Sandy Holmes
Nicole McCarthy
Laura Voorhees
Custodial Staff
John Barton (night)
Steve Horyczun (day)
Kay Carling (night)
Don Loomis (night)
Support Services
T.J. Anderson
Kelley Cook
Stefanie Smith
Johanna Sparks
Health/Home and Career Skills
Physical Education
Physical Education
Technology
Instrumental Music
Computer Lab
Monitor
Library / Media Center
Art
Vocal Music & Chorus
Cafeteria
Laura Cody
Hope Munson
School Psychologist
Tioga County Counselor
Speech Language Pathologist
Occupational Therapy
Middle School Bell Schedule
7:45 a.m.
School Building Opens to Students
7:45-8:00
Breakfast or Supervised Area
8:00 a.m.
First Bell
8:03-9:03
Period 1
9:06-10:04
Period 2
10:07-11:05
Period 3
11:05-11:35
Period 4
5/6 Lunch
11:35-12:05
Period 5
7/8 Lunch
12:08-12:48
Period 6
12:51-1:31
Period 7
1:34-2:14
Period 8
2:17-2:56
Period 9
3:55 p.m.
Extended School Bell
“Be where you are supposed to be – When
you are supposed to be there – Doing what
you are supposed to be doing!”
APPOINTMENTS WITH TEACHERS/PRINCIPAL
Any time you wish to meet with a teacher, group of teachers or the principal, contact the school at 589-7120 to schedule an
appointment. If you have a concern regarding a specific staff member, we ask that you first contact him or her directly. If after
meeting, you still have concerns, contact the main office to set up an appointment to meet with the principal.
ARRIVAL & DISMISSAL PROCEDURES
School Hours: 8:00-2:56
After School Program: 3:00-3:56 (includes homework club on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday). A late bus will be
available.
Arrival
7:45: Doors are locked until 7:45. Students should not enter the building prior to that time unless arrangements have been
made with staff.
Walkers: Walkers and students being dropped off are to enter through the front door – facing Academy St. Please do not
drop students off on the street at the stop signs. It creates a safety issue. Parents should enter the parking lot by the tennis
courts and drop students off at the sidewalk adjacent to the building. Parents will not be permitted to drop off or pick up
students in the gym parking lot due to bus loading and unloading.
Breakfast: Breakfast begins at 7:45. Any student wanting breakfast must report to the cafeteria upon entering the building.
Cafeteria privileges may be revoked for unsatisfactory behavior.
Morning Supervision: Students who do not wish to go to breakfast must report to their designated area.
Late Students: Students arriving after 8:03 are considered tardy and must report to the sign-in desk located in the planning
room.
Dismissal
2:56: All students are to leave the building upon dismissal, unless staying after for a pre-arranged, supervised activity. Written
parental permission is required to stay after school.
Changes to normal go-home plans: Students going anywhere other than their usual destination are required to have a note.
Any student without a note will be required to go to their normal after-school destination.
Bus Students: Bus students are to exit the building through the doors by the bus circle immediately following the bell.
Walkers: Students being picked up are to exit through the front door (facing Academy St).
After school procedures: Students who stay after school must be supervised. Students must have a note to stay after which
includes the supervised area and the reason you are staying. If a student would like to stay after with a teacher, he or she must
make arrangements with the teacher prior to school that day.
Supervision at High School: Middle school students are not allowed to hang out at the high school unsupervised. Students
should only be there if they are participating in a sport or other school activity that takes place at the high school, or with an
adult.
ATTENDANCE
It is expected that students will be to school on time and attend all classes. If your child is absent from school, please report the
absence using “Safe Arrival” (1-844-553-3311 or sve.schoolconnects.com) prior to 8:00. If you do not report your child’s
absence prior to 8 a.m. the “Safe Arrival Phone Caller” will contact you. Board policy states the following absences are
considered excused absences: illness, religious holiday or observance, family death or severe illness, contagious disease in
family or residence, professional appointments, college visitations, impassable weather or road conditions, court required
appearances, approved school field trips, and approved work study employment or visitations. All other absences are
considered to be unexcused.
Students who are late to school must report to the sign-in desk in the planning room and obtain a pass.
Students are not permitted to leave school, prior to dismissal, without being signed out by a parent, guardian or person
designated by the parent/guardian.
If a student will be missing a scheduled class (music lesson, counseling, etc.) he or she must report to that class to sign in
prior to going anywhere else. Otherwise he or she will be marked absent and consequences may apply.
CARE OF BUILDING AND GROUNDS
Students will respect the building and rights of others to maintain a clean and safe environment.
making our school a place to be proud of by keeping our school free of litter, graffiti and gum.
All students will take part in
Vandalism: Any vandalism to school facilities may result in restitution and/or payment. Depending on the severity of the
vandalism, additional consequences may apply.
CITIZENSHIP
We expect all students to be part of the solution, not part of the problem by displaying the following citizenship characteristics:
Be Respectful
 Help others
 Wait their turn
 Listen and follow directions
 Respect others’ personal space and property
 Use appropriate language
Be Responsible
 Be on time
 Be prepared by having all your materials ready
 Participate and stay on task
 Do quality work
 Be honest
 Follow rules

Recycle
Be a Problem Solver
 Listen attentively
 Help others
 Work out issues peacefully
 Have the courage to do the right thing
Be Safe





Remain seated
Keep hands, feet, and belongings to yourself
Use equipment and materials as directed
Be aware of your surroundings
Report any unsafe situations to an adult
COMPUTER USAGE
Students will have access to a computer network for internet use and completion of assignments. Students must agree to the
Acceptable Use Policy the first time they log on each year.
Expectations: Students are responsible for appropriate behavior on school computer networks just as they are in the classroom
or the halls. General school rules for behavior apply. Access may be revoked if abused. Depending on the severity of the
abuse, additional consequences may apply.
Guidelines: The district has the right to view any and all information stored on school computers. Students should not share
phone numbers, addresses, or other personal information about themselves or others. During school, teachers will guide
students toward appropriate materials and monitor students while on the internet.
Students may check their personal e-mail accounts, for school related purposes, with permission from the teacher and or lab
supervisor.
Unnecessary internet games, videos and music streaming slows down our network. We want to use our internet bandwidth
wisely.
Rules:









The following are not permitted (this list is not all-inclusive):
Internet games (that are not pre-approved by the teacher or supervisor).
Downloading, streaming or listening to music from websites.
Downloading videos or pictures, unless they are current events, school related activities, or educational “how to”
demonstrations.
Downloading or installing any software, shareware, or freeware onto network drives and disks.
Removing or altering any hardware or software.
Damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks.
Sending or displaying offensive or threatening messages or pictures, including using obscene language, harassing,
insulting, attacking or threatening others.
Violating copyright laws.
Using another person’s password and/or trespassing in another’s folders, work or files.
Spencer-Van Etten Central School District
Network & Internet Acceptable Use Policy
The Spencer-Van Etten Central School District Board of Education considers computer access to the Internet to be a valuable
tool for education. Staff and student uses of the Internet must be in support of education and consistent with the purposes of the
Spencer-Van Etten Central School District. This access, through the District network, should be used to support and enhance
instruction and professional development.
Because access to the Internet provides connections to systems located all over the world, staff, students, and parents of
students must understand that neither the Spencer-Van Etten Central School District nor any individual District staff member
controls the content available on these systems. Some of the information is controversial and may be offensive. The SpencerVan Etten Central School District does not condone the use of such material.
The Spencer-Van Etten Central School District Board of Education considers network and Internet use to be a privilege not a
right and that use entails responsibility. Staff Internet use is currently available via individual accounts. Student Internet use is
currently available via individual accounts in grades 5 - 12 and shared class accounts in grades K - 4. CIPA compliant Internet
filtering software will not eliminate the requirement to act responsibly. All District users have a responsibility to use the
network in an appropriate and responsible manner following the rules set forth in this policy.
Failure to adhere to the regulations accompanying this policy will result in revocation of access privileges and may result in
disciplinary action.
Users should expect only limited privacy in the contents of their personal files on the District system. Routine maintenance and
monitoring of the system may lead to the discovery that users have violated this policy, the District / Building Discipline code
or the law.
An individual account search may be conducted to determine if a user has violated this policy, the District Code of Conduct, or
the law. The investigation will be reasonable and related to the suspected violation.
CONSENT FOR USE OF PHOTOGRAPHS/VIDEOS
Throughout the school year, photographs or videotapes may be taken of students for use in District produced publications,
videos, podcasts, webpages, or submitted to the news media. If you DO NOT wish your child to be photographed or
videotaped, please indicate this in writing to your child’s school principal by September 15, 2016. E-mail does not constitute a
written request; please write/type it on paper and mail/deliver. This request must be updated annually. Photos and videos
produced by the district are the property of the district and not for use or reproduction without district consent.
CUSTODY/COURT ORDERS
If you have a custody/court order or order of protection, that affects your child at school, you are required to provide the school
with a copy of the most recent order. Without a court order on file, we cannot legally prevent another parent from picking up a
child.
DISCIPLINE
The Board of Education expects all students to conduct themselves in an appropriate and civil manner.
The middle school staff realizes we all make mistakes. Students will have the opportunity to correct their mistakes while also
learning a better way to handle a situation and develop self-discipline.
The following unaccepted and prohibited student behavior is outlined in the SVE District Code of Conduct:
Unacceptable and Prohibited Student Behavior:
Conduct that is disorderly
 Running in hallways and stairwells
 Using inappropriate language or gestures
 Not following safety procedures
Conduct that is insubordinate
 Failing to comply with the reasonable directions of any school staff, including bus drivers
 Leaving school without permission
 Skipping class or detention
 Lying or defiance
 Using a cell phone during the school day
Conduct that is disruptive
 Committing an act that interferes with the learning of others
 Making unreasonable noise
 Interrupting in class
 Personal Display of Affection
Conduct that is violent
 Committing or threatening physical harm
 Possessing a weapon, displaying what appears to be a weapon, or threatening to use a weapon
 Intentionally damaging or destroying property
Conduct that can be perceived as harassing or bullying
 Intentionally making false statements about another person or group of people to cause harm
 Discriminating against others
 Harassing, bullying, ridiculing or demeaning others
 Intimidating others
 Sexual Harassment
Conduct that endangers the safety, morals, health or welfare of others
 Stealing
 Selling, using or possessing obscene material
 Possessing, consuming, selling, distributing, and/or being under the influence of substances that include tobacco, drugs
and alcoholic beverages
 Indecent exposure
 Making false emergency claims
Conduct that is unsafe or unruly while on a school bus
 Distracting the bus driver
 Disobeying bus rules and school code of conduct
Conduct that is academically unacceptable
 Plagiarism
 Cheating and/or copying
 Altering records
Students demonstrating and/or assisting in any of the above behaviors will result in one or more of the following
consequences:
 Verbal warning
 Suspension from transportation
 Written warning
 Suspension from social or extra-curricular activities
 Removal from classroom by teacher
including sports
 Time-out
 Suspension of other privileges
 Lunch and/or after school detention
 In-school detention
 Parental phone call
 Out-of-school suspension
 Parental conference
 Expulsion from school
In-School Suspension will include suspension from school activities for the time of the suspension, including after school or
evening activities on the day of the suspension.
Out-of-School Suspension means that the student is suspended from school, all school events and school grounds, throughout
the district for the period of the suspension, ending at 12:01 a.m. the following day.
Further consequences may include, but are not limited to: Superintendent’s Hearing and/or law enforcement involvement.
DRESS CODE
Acceptable dress for school will include attire that is safe, appropriate, and does not distract the student or others from learning.
Acceptable dress:
 Shirts will be long enough to cover the midriff, have modest necklines and straps that are a minimum of 2-finger width.
 All undergarments must be completely covered.
 Proper footwear must be worn at all times. For safety reasons, flip-flops, slides, slippers, and heelies will not be
allowed. Some classes may require a certain type of footwear.
 Hats and sunglasses must be stored in lockers.
 Attire must be non-offensive, free of obscenities, and does not endorse alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs and/or violent
activities.
 Dresses, skirts and shorts should be no shorter than approximately finger-tip length (including slits).
 Pajamas, robes, blankets, and pillows are not allowed.
Students who violate the student dress code will be required to modify their appearance by covering or changing the offending
item before returning to the classroom.
School administration will make all final decisions regarding acceptable clothing.
EMERGENCY INFORMATION
At the beginning of each school year, parents are asked to update emergency information files. It is very important that we
know how to reach a parent or designated person in case of an emergency. If any changes are made during the school year
concerning this information, including cell phones, be sure to notify your child’s school immediately.
EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSINGS/DELAYS
The primary consideration in a school closing is the safety of students. Factors relevant to safety include icy roads, reduced
visibility, drifting snow, chill factor flooding, high wind and mechanical and health hazards at the school. If school is closed or
delayed because of an emergency, the district will use our Rapid Connects phone system to notify student households in
addition to posting on www.svecsd.org and broadcasting on the radio and TV stations listed below. Please be sure you have
provided your child’s building office with your “crisis/emergency” contact information to ensure that you receive our calls.
Television Stations: WBNG-TV, WETM-TV, WENY-TV, WICZ-TV, WMGC-TV, WSKG-TV and WYSR-TV.
FM Radio Stations: Q104 (103.7), WAAL (99.1), WAVR (102.1), WBBI (107.5) WCHI (90.3), WCII (88.5), WENY (92.7),
WHCU (97.3), WHGL (102.9), WICB (91.7), WINK (106.1), WLTB (101.7), WLVY (94.3), WMRV (105.7), WMXW
(103.3), WOKN (99.5), WQNY (103.7), WRGI (100.9) and WXYL (97.3).
AM Radio Stations: WATS (960), WBRG (1050), WEBO (1330), WELM (1410), WENY (1230), WHCU (870), WHWK
(1290), WKOP (1360), WNBF (1280), WPIE (1160), WQIX (820) and WTKO (1470).
In the event of a one or two-hour delayed school opening, buses will arrive at stops one hour (or two hours) later, and school
will begin one hour (or two hours) later than usual. PLEASE DO NOT CALL your child’s school or the bus garage to ask if
schools are closed or delayed. Instead, tune in to one of the television or radio stations for up-to-date information.
EMOTIONAL HEALTH & WELLNESS
Emotional, social and mental health issues can significantly affect how a child succeeds in school, behaviorally, and how they
relate to family members, peers, and teachers, among others! If issues are identified, interventions can be effective. The S-VE
School District offers a School-Based Mental Health Clinic through Tioga County Department of Mental Hygiene, where
students can meet with a counselor for assessment and individual and family therapy as needed. It is entirely free, voluntary,
and confidential; parent consent is required.
If you are concerned about your child’s emotional, social, and/or mental health, contact the Middle School Guidance Counselor
who can discuss with you further and may refer your child to begin these services. If you have questions or would like
additional information, please contact the Middle School Office at 589-7120.
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Extra curricular activities including, but not limited to, field day, fun days, field trips, dances, etc. are an earned privilege.
Students not fulfilling their academic, as well as social responsibilities, throughout the year, may be excluded from
participation in these activities.
FIELD TRIPS
Students must have a signed permission slip from the parent or guardian in order to attend field trips. Students not attending
field trips will be given an alternate assignment.
When on a field trip, students are representing their school and community. All students will be expected to be on their very
best behavior.
EVACUATION/FIRE DRILLS AND EMERGENCIES
In the event of an evacuation/fire drill or emergency procedure all students are required to:
 Immediately be quiet, listen and follow all instructions
 Exit and re-enter the building quietly and orderly.
 Remain silently with your class during the entire drill or emergency procedure.
FUNDRAISING IN SCHOOL
Fundraising at school is limited to approved, school sponsored activities. Food must not be sold before or during the lunch
periods.
GRADING PROCEDURES
Students will be informed by each teacher of the grading system used in that class. The minimum passing grade is a 65, for all
grade levels. Grades are posted on schooltool. We encourage you to check parent portal frequently to review your child’s
grades. This will also help you to see if there are missing assignments for the marking period.
Report cards will be issued every six weeks on the Wednesday after the marking period ends. Report cards will be sent home
in the Wednesday folder. Please watch for them. Marking periods end as follows:
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
Marking Period 1: October 21st
Marking Period 2: December 9th
Marking Period 3: January 27th
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Marking Period 4: March 10th
Marking Period 5: April 28th
Marking Period 6: June 16th
Incompletes: Students who receive an incomplete from a teacher have ten instructional days in which to make up the work.
During the ten day period, the student may be placed on the ineligible list, depending on the circumstances. Failure to make up
work will result in a failing grade for that assignment.
Ineligibility: Two or more failing grades
Students who are failing two or more classes at the time of a school sponsored event including dances and fun nights will not be
allowed to participate. Sports ineligibility requirements will be provided by the athletic department at the beginning of each
sport.
HEALTH OFFICE INFORMATION
Illness or Injury: The school nurse evaluates all illnesses and injuries.
Students not feeling well should obtain a health office pass from the teacher. The nurse will evaluate the student and decide if
he or she should be sent home or back to class. All calls must come from the nurse or her designee. Students are not permitted
to call or text parents directly. This is a violation of the cell phone policy which will result in a consequence.
Any time a student is injured at school, he or she must see the nurse at the time of the injury.
Medication Administration: If possible, parents are advised to give medications at home and on a schedule other than school
hours. If it is necessary that a medication be given during school hours, the legal regulations are as follows (these regulations
also include over-the-counter medications):



Medications must be brought to school by a parent or responsible adult in the original prescription bottle.
The physician prescribing the medication must fill out a doctor's order and a parent must give written permission.
Students are not allowed to carry any type of medication without proper authorization from a physician, the student’s
parent/guardian and the nurse.
Unless these steps are followed, school nurses are not allowed to dispense medication to your child. These rules are for your
child's safety; they are also required by law.
Physicals: NYS Education law requires that students in pre-k, kindergarten, 2nd, 4th, 7th and 10th grade as well as new students
to the school district have a physical examination completed sometime during the school year. Students participating in school
sports are required to have an up-to-date physical (within one year of the start of the sport) in order to be eligible to participate.
We are requesting that your child be seen by their private health care provider (HCP) for a physical exam. Students typically
receive a more thorough physical from their HCP as they know the child and his/her medical history. The school will provide
physicals for those students who are unable to get one from their HCP.
Immunizations Requirements: All students must be in compliance with the immunization schedule outlined by the NYS
Education Dept. Students will be excluded from school if they do not meet these requirements. Immunization requirements are
listed in the district calendar and school website.
Insurance Information: Spencer-Van Etten students are covered by an insurance plan from Pupil Benefits Plan, Inc. This
coverage is for students who need treatment for school-related accidents or injuries. All doctor and hospital bills must be
submitted to the parents' insurance first; any amount that is not paid is then submitted to Pupil Benefits Plan by the
parent/guardian. Parents/guardians are responsible for the first $100 then 20% of the remaining bill. This applies to people
without insurance also. The school nurse in your building must complete a medical claim form for the parent/guardian to
submit along with the necessary documentation required by Pupil Benefits Plan.
Questions: If you have any questions about this matter, please call the school nurse in your child's building.
HOMEWORK FINDER
Homework will be posted by 2:00 p.m. daily in homework finder.
(svecsd.org) under Schools: Middle School: Homework Finder.
Homework finder is located on the SVE website
LIBRARY/MEDIA CENTER
The library will be available to students during school hours.
Circulation: All books and magazines, other than reference materials, may be signed out for a period of two weeks and may
be renewed if no one else is waiting for them. Students may have out two books and one magazine at any given time.
Students are expected to return or renew materials on time.
Students should contact the librarian if they notice any materials that are damaged. Students will be expected to pay for any
items that have been lost, damaged or destroyed while signed out in their name.
LOCKERS
Lockers are provided for the storage of books, clothing, and book bags. Students are assigned one locker. Students may not
leave class to go to your locker except with special permission and a pass.
Some fifth grade lockers are open lockers located inside the classrooms. All other lockers have doors with locks and are
located in hallways. Students must use the combination locks which are built into the locker doors. Personal pad locks are not
allowed. School officials have the right to inspect and search lockers.
Gym lockers are for gym and sports items only.
Students are to keep their locker locked and not give their combination to any other student. Students should not leave
money or valuables in their locker.
LOST AND FOUND
If you are missing an item, please check the lost and found, located in the cafeteria. Items with names on them will be
immediately returned to the student if found. Remember to only take items that belong to you. The school is not responsible
for loss or theft of property.
LUNCH PROGRAM
S-VE Cafeteria Charge Policy: Students will be allowed to charge up to the equivalent of three meals on their meal account.
Once the three charge limit is reached, food services will provide cereal for breakfast and/or a sandwich alternative of peanut
butter and jelly or cheese for lunch. The student’s normal meal pricing will be added to his or her account. Students will also
not be allowed to make any a la carte purchases, including milk, until the charges are paid.
Free & Reduced Lunch Applications: Free & reduced lunch forms are available in all school offices, or can be downloaded
directly from the school website. All applications are due by October 1 st. Students that were on free/reduced lunch last year,
will continue to receive that pricing until September 30 th. At that time, any student not returning a new application will be
charged full price for his/her lunch.
All families are encouraged to fill out a free and reduced lunch application.
MIDDLE SCHOOL BREAKFAST/LUNCH PRICES:
Breakfast: Full Price - $1.20
Lunch:
Full Price - $2.50
Reduced Price - $.25
Reduced Price - $.25
MUSIC LESSONS
Students must report to their scheduled class to sign-in, prior to attending music lessons. Students are responsible for
handing in assignments and for any class work missed. If a unit test, period long exam, class event or major project is
scheduled during the time of a music lesson, it is the student’s responsibility (prior to the lesson period) to make alternate
arrangements with the classroom teacher and music teacher.
OWING MONEY OR MATERIALS
Parents are responsible for any money owed or materials that have been lost or damaged while signed out by their child.
Report cards will be withheld at the end of the year until the charges have been paid or the materials returned or paid for.
PARENT PORTAL
Parent Portal is an important method of home/school communication available to parents of students in our district.
Parent Portal allows you to…
 Review basic information on your child including name, birthdate, address, phone number
 Access your child’s schedule, attendance, grades, discipline assignments
 Contact your child’s teacher by e-mail
We encourage all parents to sign up. Please contact the main office at 589-7120 if you would like to set up a new account or
have questions or changes regarding an existing account.
PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES
The fall parent/teacher conferences are scheduled for November 17th and November 30th. Parents are strongly encouraged to
schedule a fall conference. The spring parent/teacher conference is scheduled for March 9th. Teachers will contact you if they
feel a conference is necessary. If you do not hear from your child’s teacher regarding a spring conference, but would like to
meet with your child’s teacher, please call to schedule one. Conferences can be scheduled through the main office at 589-7120.
PARTNERS IN EDUCATION (PIE)
PIE is our parent/teacher/community organization dedicated to supporting the middle school and its endeavors. We are a group
of hard working, fun loving, caring individuals who want to help our students grow and succeed. We invite you to join us and
become part of our group. It can only be better with you. We look forward to seeing new faces, hearing new ideas and
working together. More information can be found on the school website.
PASS SYSTEM
Students must have a pass in the halls during class time. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain the pass. Student passes
are included in the back of the student organizer and should be used. Each student will be given one allotment of passes per
quarter. Students wishing to visit the nurse’s office must use the health office pass. Passes will be given at the teacher’s
discretion.
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Only one student at a time will be allowed to leave class to use the restroom.
Students wishing to confer with a faculty member must obtain a pre-signed pass from that person.
The office will not issue late passes for students late to class unless they were detained in the office.
Students late to class without a pass three, four and five times within one marking period will be assigned a lunch
detention. Students being late more than five times will be assigned a lunch detention and an after-school detention.
PERSONAL BELONGINGS
Any belongings that are distracting to the learning environment are not permitted during school hours. Examples of these items
include electronics, laser pointers and cell phones (cell phones should not be out, on or operating during school hours without the
supervision of a staff member. Students seen with any of these items will have them confiscated. The first time an object is taken
away from a student, it will be kept in the school office until the end of the school day, at which time the student may pick it up.
The second offense will require a parent/guardian to pick up the item.
Students are required to leave purses, bags and backpacks in their lockers during school hours.
The student is responsible for any money or items brought to school. Labeling personal items is highly recommended.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Physical education class is designed to enhance a student’s health and fitness level while developing both individual and team
skills.
Student Responsibilities:
Students will…
 Change for Physical Education Class (7th and 8thgrades).
 Wear appropriate footwear (sneakers) and clothing to class.
 Lace footwear securely on their feet.
 Participate in all activities at their own ability levels.
 Cooperate with teachers and other students in class.
 Take safety precautions when working with or around equipment and other students.
 Be responsible for their lockers in the locker room (7th and 8th grades).
 Practice good sportsmanship.
 Demonstrate positive leadership qualities.
 Follow directions and instructions for safety and to better their skills.
Participation
Participation in physical education is a state mandate. Refusal to participate in class is a violation of our code of conduct and
consequences will apply.
If a student refuses or is unprepared to participate in physical education class, he or she may not be able to participate in athletic
practices and/or games on that day.
Excused Absences
1. Note from doctor/athletic trainer:
The note will be honored for the period of time and the restriction of activities listed on the note. Students may
need a doctor’s release to resume activity.
2.
Note from parent/guardian:
A note indicating physical injury or illness will be honored for one day only and must be approved by the school
nurse. After that, a doctor/trainer note is required.
*Notes listed above will also apply to physical activities during recess, field day, etc.
PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION
Public displays of affection are not permitted on school grounds.
SAFE ARRIVAL
SafeArrival is the absence reporting system used by the Spencer-Van Etten School District. This system allows you to report
your child’s absence using any of three ways; phone (1-844-553-3311); mobile app (SafeArrival app by Synrevoice
Technologies); or web (sve.schoolconnects.com). More detailed information about this system can be found on our district
website (svecsd.org).
SCHEDULING CHANGES
Students will have until September 23rd to drop an elective course. To drop or add a course, students and parents must compete
the add/drop form. Forms are available in the guidance office. Please contact the middle school guidance counselor, Dan
Craven at dcraven@svecsd.org or at 607-589-7120 if you have any questions regarding your child’s schedule.
SPORTS
SVEYA offers the following sports to students 12 years old and under.
Fall: Cheerleading, Field Hockey, Football, Soccer
Winter: Basketball, Wrestling
Spring: Baseball, Softball
Students in 7th and 8th grades have the opportunity to participate in the following school sports:
Fall: Cross Country, Field Hockey, Football, Soccer
Nov/Dec: Boys Basketball, Volleyball
Jan/Feb: Girls Basketball, Wrestling
Spring: Baseball, Golf, Softball, Track
SPORTS PHYSICALS
Any student wishing to play a school sponsored sport must have a physical. Physicals are good for one year. Sports physicals
are offered though the school free of charge in the spring.
STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION / ANTI-HARASSMENT
It is the policy of the Spencer-Van Etten School District not to permit discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, creed,
color, sex, national origin, religion, age, economic status, marital status, sexual orientation or disability in the district’s
educational programs, activities or employment.
Harassment may take the form of comments, name-calling, jokes, stalking, perpetuating rumors or gossip, offensive gestures or
language, assault or any other behavior that is designed to annoy, intimidate or cause fear. Students should report anyone who
discriminates against or harasses them to the teacher, principal or dean of students.
TELEPHONE USAGE
School telephones are for business or emergency purposes only. Students using the office phone must have a signed pass
stating the purpose of their call. Students will not be allowed to call home to make plans to go to another destination after
school.
TEXTBOOKS
Teachers will issue textbooks/materials to students throughout the course of the school year. Students are responsible for the
proper care of all materials loaned to them by the school. Textbooks are to be kept clean and handled carefully. All books
should have covers to aid in preventing damage. Students are responsible for lost or damaged books and materials, signed out
in their name, and will be required to pay for the replacement cost.
TRANSPORTATION
Bus Discipline: Students are expected to display the same conduct on a bus as they do in a classroom, therefore giving drivers
the same respect as teachers or administrators. School buses are considered school property. Therefore, all district discipline
policies are in effect. Any discipline infraction that endangers the safety of others, may result in the loss of transportation
privileges.
Bus Conduct Rules
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Obey the bus driver at all times. There are three video cameras on each bus.
Be on time to your bus stop.
Keep your hands to yourself. No pushing or fooling around.
Keep your body inside the bus. Do not throw anything outside the window.
No eating, drinking or littering on the bus.
Use appropriate and respectful language in a low volume.
Written notes are required for any student who wishes to ride a different bus. Notes must be signed by office personnel.
Remain seated in your assigned seat at all times. The driver reserves the right to assign seats to students.
Students must walk 10 feet in front of the bus and then await signal from the driver to cross in front of the bus.
Do not play with emergency windows or door.
UPDATING INFORMATION
Please contact the school as soon as possible if you have in your address, phone number, contact information, etc. It is
extremely important for us to have accurate information on file at all times.
VOLUNTEERING
Jennifer Swayze coordinates volunteers in the building. If you are interested in volunteering at school, please contact her at
589-7120 or jswayze@svecsd.org to let her know in what capacity you are interested in volunteering and your availability.
WEBSITE
The Spencer-Van Etten District Website is svecsd.org. There is a lot of valuable information on our district website including
the calendar, important dates, phone numbers, websites, parent portal for schooltool and parent portal for safe arrival.
WORKING PAPERS
Students who are 14 – 17 years of age are eligible to apply for working papers. A physical within the previous 12 months is
required. Applications are available from the guidance office. Parents must fill out Part I – Parental Consent of the application,
including social security number and parent/guardian signature. The form is then returned to the guidance office for
processing. Please allow five business days for the working card to be completed. The completed card must then be signed in
front of a school official.
DISTRICT PHONE NUMBERS
SAFE ARRIVAL ABSENCE CALLER:
1-844-553-3311
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL MAIN OFFICE:
589-7110
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL NURSE:
589-7118
MIDDLE SCHOOL MAIN OFFICE:
589-7120
MIDDLE SCHOOL NURSE:
589-7128
MIDDLE SCHOOL KITCHEN:
589-7129
HIGH SCHOOL MAIN OFFICE:
589-7140
HIGH SCHOOL GUIDANCE OFFICE:
589-7144
HIGH SCHOOL NURSE:
589-7148
DISTRICT OFFICE:
589-7100
CSE OFFICE:
589-7111
BUS GARAGE:
589-7160
FOOD SERVICE:
589-7150
DISTRICT FAX NUMBERS
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL FAX:
589-3017
MIDDLE SCHOOL FAX:
589-3020
HIGH SCHOOL FAX:
589-3011
NURSE’S OFFICE FAX: (Same for all buildings)
589-3003
DISTRICT OFFICE FAX:
589-3010
CSE OFFICE FAX:
589-3025