Brown Middle School Mission Statement

Brown Middle School Mission Statement Brown Middle School is a community of young adolescent and adult learners. We believe that all students can learn and that everyone in the Brown community is a partner in learning. Our core values are Academic Excellence, Respect and Responsibility. Core Values The guiding assumption of our Core Values is that all students can learn and that everyone in the Brown community is a partner in learning. This community includes students, parents, teachers, and the school staff. Academic Excellence We achieve at our highest level. We listen, analyze and think critically, and solve problems creatively. Respect We respect ourselves, others, and property. We respect the learning process. We value diversity and show kindness and consideration to all. Responsibility We take charge of our learning. We are accountable for our personal and academic behavior. We work hard to reach our goals and understand the relationship between effort and achievement. Introduction to the Brown Book At the Charles E. Brown Middle School parents are encouraged to play a partnership role in the student’s education. This handbook assembles information designed to help students and parents understand and participate in the various programs at the school. We are grateful to members of the Faculty and Administration who have contributed descriptions of school policy, philosophy, and core values and to parents who have suggested areas of clarification. TELEPHONE NUMBERS TO KEEP BROWN MAIN TELEPHONE NUMBER BROWN FAX NUMBER BROWN GUIDANCE OFFICE BROWN STUDENT ATTENDANCE LINE SCHOOL WEB PAGE (617) 559-6900 (617) 552-7729 (617) 559-6907 (617) 559-6980 http://www.newton.k12.ma.us/brown OVERVIEW OF BROWN ORGANIZATION In an attempt to provide the kind of individualized attention that middle school students need, the following organization has been established. The Faculty and Student body is divided into grade level teams. The purpose of the team is to provide a smaller unit with which Students and Faculty can identify and from which they can gain support. 6Th GRADE TEAM PLACEMENT for each student is done by assigning students to assure a heterogeneous mix by gender, feeder school background, past academic achievement, and special needs. Each team has its own Guidance counselor. The counselor works with other faculty on the team to ensure each student is succeeding to the best of his/her ability. They are available for individual as well as group counseling and run developmental guidance sessions. Counselors work closely with students, teachers, parents and administrators. 6TH, 7TH & 8TH SCHEDULE -INCLUDING TEAM BLOCK AND ITS RATIONALE The school day is divided into six instructional blocks (or periods). Each major course meets five times over a six-day period. Physical Education and Fine and Applied Art courses meet every other day. Brown offers its students time to pursue expanded curriculum work, team projects, special enrichment courses, or remedial work within the regular school day and sets aside a time- “team time”- in the middle of the day for this purpose. EVALUATION At the end of each term every student receives an evaluation form (report card) that provides a letter grade and printed comments for each subject (s)he has taken during the marking period. A subjective measure of the student's performance, letter grades reflect the achievement, effort, and attitude of the student. Students in physical education will be graded on an A, pass, fail, and medically excused basis. Comments usually indicate areas in which work has been well done and areas that need improvement. The report is sent home at the conclusion of each of the three terms. COMMUNICATION • The main School telephone number is (617) 559-6900 • • • • The Student Attendance line telephone number is (617) 559-6980 The Fax number is (617) 552-7729 The Guidance office telephone number is (617) 559-6907 A Daily Bulletin distributed to each Faculty member via e-mail. This is designed to convey a myriad of messages. The first block teachers communicate the information on the bulletin to the students in their respective classes. A Bimonthly newsletter coordinated by the PTO. Newsletters will be e-mailed or sent by mail. On the first Friday of each month the Principal writes an informational e-mail to Parents/Guardians. There is a bulletin board in the front hall of the school. This can be used for posting announcements and information. Public address system that announces verbal messages throughout the school, usually twice a day. Information about Brown may be obtained on the Internet; www.newton.k12.ma.us/brown Mid-term evaluations used by teachers to communicate student progress. Report cards at the end of each term designed to communicate student progress. • • • • • • • Parents are encouraged to contact the school about their child's progress at any time. In general, the best help can usually be obtained by contacting the Guidance counselor. However, if the question concerns work in a specific class, feel free to contact the classroom teacher directly. Assistant Principals and Principal are also available to answer your questions and to help you find solutions to any problems you may have relating to the school. There are mini-team meetings, which involve the current teachers of a student, the Guidance counselor, and the parent. The mini-team meeting is convened by the Guidance counselor at the request of any of the above persons. * * * * ATTENDANCE Absence Reporting procedures If your child is to be absent from school you should call the school's student attendance line at (617) 559-6980 before 8:30AM. each morning your child is absent. If your child's name is on the absence list and we have not heard from you by 8:30AM., we will call you. By law, a brief note, indicating the date and reason for absence is required and is due upon your child's return to school. In the case of an anticipated absence (i.e. religious holidays, medical appointments, etc.) in lieu of a phone call, your child should bring a note in advance to the Main Office. Cutting Class Cutting class is a serious matter. It is handled first by the classroom teacher and then by the administration if action needs to be taken. Early dismissal of students A student who wishes to be dismissed must bring a note from a parent/guardian on the day of dismissal. This note should be brought to the Office before 8:30 A.M. so that a dismissal slip may be processed. Parents who wish to take their children out of school must come in person to the Main Office. They will be asked to sign the dismissal register or write a note requesting the student’s dismissal. Extended Illness Parents may contact the school office concerning arrangements to be made to collect homework for students who are out of school three days or more because of illness. Please call as early as possible in the morning to facilitate collection of homework assignments. The offices are open from 7:30AM-3:30PM. Late slips A student who arrives at school after 8:30AM. should report directly to the Main Office where a “late pass” can be filled out in an effort to keep the daily attendance record accurate. Students should have a written note explaining their tardiness if they arrive at school after 8:30AM. Students late to class Students are required to provide a late pass to explain tardy arrival in any class. Truancy Truancy is against the law. Incidents of truancy are reported to the Newton Schools Attendance Officer. BAD WEATHER - NO SCHOOL SIGNALS When school sessions are canceled or delayed, the announcement will be made over the radio stations WBZ and WRKO, between 7:15 A.M. and 8:00AM. and between 11:30AM. and 12:00 noon. Please do not call the School Department or the Fire Department. Listen to the radio. The following is the Newton School's policy concerning the closing of schools during stormy weather: On the days when a bad storm is in progress and the roads are as yet • unplowed, schools may be closed or the opening of schools may be delayed. Information can be found by checking the Newton Public Schools website http://www.newton.k12.ma.us • • Assuming that by the second day roads are passable and traveling is reasonably good, all schools will be opened. Though schools may be open on days subsequent to a snow or ice storm, parents should be advised to use their own judgment in determining whether road conditions in the area permit children to proceed safely to school. The judgment of the parent should be accepted as a legitimate reason for student absence. BIKES Bicycles can be brought to school and should be parked and locked in the bike rack in front of the school (in full view of the school office). CAFETERIA There are three lunch periods each day. All lunch periods are 30 minutes in length. Several teachers supervise any given lunch period. Students may buy a hot or cold lunch or may bring their own. Provisions are available for free or subsidized lunches for families who meet the guidelines. Information about free hot lunches may be obtained at the main office. The School Committee determines the price of lunches. Students are expected to exercise reasonable behavior in the lunchroom. Running, shouting, mishandling food, and shoving are unacceptable. The following behavior is expected of students: • • • • • • • • Students should proceed to the cafeteria in an orderly fashion, observing hallway safety precautions. Students should enter the cafeteria through the door marked, "IN" and exit through the "PATIO DOORS." Students must take the proper place in the lunch line. Cutting in line or purchasing food for others is not allowed. Once finished eating, all students must dispose of all of their own refuse in recycling or other containers. Students may go out onto the patio in nice weather. They must remain on the patio or in the lunchroom until the end of the lunch period. Students should return to classes at the end of lunch using the "PATIO" door and proceed so as not to disturb any classes in progress Areas not stated in these rules must be considered "out of bounds" for students. Because of the potential hazard of falling, students should not sit on the railings. CALENDAR The school calendar for Newton is determined by the School Committee each spring. It is sent out from the school at the end of the summer. Copies are available in the main office. HOURS 8:30AM. - 3:00PM. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 8:30AM. - 2:30PM. Tuesday Students arriving before 8:15AM. are expected to be in the Library, Computer Center, Cafeteria or supervised Physical Education program. There is a Breakfast program available each day, which offers a choice of hot/cold items. Students are expected to leave at the end of the day unless they are engaged in a supervised and approved activity. CHEATING AND PLAGIARISM Our expectation at Brown Middle School is that students will take responsibility for their own work. Cheating and plagiarism will not be tolerated. Plagiarism is the act of copying and using the ideas or writings of another, as one's own. This includes copying homework or information from encyclopedias, the Internet, or any other library research materials. Please refer to the Citywide Student’s Rights and Responsibilities Handbook for disciplinary responses to cheating and plagiarism. COMMUNICATION WITH SCHOOL The school main telephone number is (617) 559-6900. The Office is staffed from 7:30AM. in the morning until 3:30PM. every school day. Notes are welcome at any time. E-mail is also a good way to communicate. Written communication enables Faculty members to call parents at a convenient time for both. The Office phones must be kept free and are not available for student use. Please limit calling with messages for your child to emergencies only. DRESS FOR SCHOOL: What is appropriate dress for school? In order to promote a positive self-image for our students and to keep the learning environment free from distraction, we have formulated the following guide to appropriate school dress. Although the definition of appropriate attire will differ from setting to setting, there are some basic standards that our students should adhere to while they are in school: • Skirts and shorts should be fingertip length when standing with hands at sides • Jeans should not be ultra low-rise • All tops should be long enough so that they reach the waistband of your skirt or pants and high enough so that they do not reveal cleavage. • Spaghetti strap style tops are not appropriate for school. • Clothing should not reveal any part of the student’s underwear If a student comes to school dressed inappropriately, we will ask the student to change his/her outfit and call the parent if needed. FUNDRAISING All fund raising activities are conducted through school sponsored events. These activities must be approved by the administration. Individuals are not allowed to sell candy, raffle tickets, soda etc. GIFTS There is a School Committee ruling that states that teachers may not receive gifts from their students. HEALTH SERVICES A Public Health Nurse is assigned to Brown. The Nurse carries out the health programs provided to students by the Health Department. The Nurse maintains health records, provides first aid, supervises screening programs, confers with faculty and families regarding students health issues, provides counseling and acts as Health Educator. If the Nurse is not in the school, another school nurse is available for consultation and designated school personnel will provide immediate care. The School Department and Health Department have jointly revised the policy on first aid in the school. Basically, the policy provides that in addition to the Public Health Nurse, at least three school staff members will be trained in first aid; a School Secretary, the Principal and a Physical Education teacher. The following is a list of mandated requirements for middle school: • • Grade 6 Routine physical exam to be done by your private physician - and copy sent to School Nurse. The following will be required for all susceptible students entering seventh grade. * One dose of varicella vaccine or physician-certified reliable history of chicken pox disease. * Three doses of Hepatitis B vaccine. * One booster dose of Td (if it is more than 5 years since the last dose). * One booster dose of MMR. • • • • Grade 6, 7, 8 Scoliosis Screening to be done either at school or your private physician. Vision Screening done at school. Height and weight on all 7th graders. Hearing Screening done by request only. Grade 7 Grade 7 Other health care providers available to students include a Pediatrician, Audiologist and Nutritionist. Drugs and Alcohol If a teacher suspects that a student has taken drugs of any kind, or seems to be acting as though under the influence of a drug, the teacher will take the student to the Nurse's Office and inform the Nurse of his/her concern. The Nurse will follow up by calling home and suggesting that the parent have the student examined by the family doctor. If the Nurse is not present, a member of the administration will call home and advise the parent that the school is concerned about the student's condition and ask the parent to report back to the school regarding this situation. If an apparent overdose of a drug has been taken or if there is other reason for grave concern about the student's health and safety, the administration may elect to send the student directly to the hospital while simultaneously informing the parent. Illness at school If a child becomes ill at school, (s)he is sent to the Health Room to be evaluated by the nurse. If it seems advisable, the parents are called and asked to take the child home. Please do not send a sick child to school. Because accidents happen and a Nurse is not always in attendance, please be sure that the School main office has the local number of a neighbor or friend in case you are not at home in an emergency. All parents are asked to provide alternate numbers, not just those who are away from home each day on a regular basis. Policy on medications to be given at school The School Nurse is responsible for the administration of all medication. The School Nurse may delegate this task to other trained personnel who may administer the medication under the supervision of the Nurse. A “medication permission” form with physicians and parents signature (forms are available at the School Health Office) must be completed in ink and on file in the Health Office before any medication is administered: The following statements highlight the main points of the policy. The entire policy is available for review in each Health Room and in the Health Department. Whenever possible medication administration should be scheduled at times other than during school hours. -All medication must be delivered by the parent/guardian or designated adult. ---Only a thirty- (30) day supply of medication will be accepted at any time. All medication must be delivered in a pharmacy or manufacturer labeled container. Self-medication can be allowed under certain circumstances after consultation with the School Nurse. If a medication needs to be administered during a FIELD TRIP, the School Nurse must be contacted in advance to make special arrangements PRIOR TO THE OUTING. NON PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS (OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATION) WILL BE TREATED THE SAME AS PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION. THIS MEANS MEDICATIONS SUCH AS TYLENOL, BENADRYL, ADVIL, ETC. WILL NOT BE GIVEN UNLESS THERE IS A WRITTEN ORDER FROM YOUR PHYSICIAN. No student is allowed to carry or use medicines in school without specific authorization from the School Nurse. No student is permitted to give medicine to another student. -- -- -- HOME OR HOSPITAL INSTRUCTION Parents of students who, in the judgment of the child's physician, will have to be absent from school or in the hospital for health or safety reasons for a period of not less than ten school days may request home or hospital instruction. These services may also be provided for students who are chronically ill for recurrent periods of less than fourteen days, each with written documentation from the child's physician. To obtain home or hospital instruction, parents must contact the Assistant to the Principal for Pupil Services at (617) 559-6907 and provide the requested written documentation from the physician. Home and hospital instruction is provided under Chapter 766. (See Chapter 766 regulation, section 502.7 Mass. Department of Education, September, 1991.) HOMEWORK Homework Guidelines & Tips (Draft document of the Brown School Council 6/01) Homework is given to reinforce what is done in the classroom. Communication between teachers, student and parents is essential. Parents may find some variation among teams in regard to homework. Independent reading is a separate entity from homework. should not be included in 1/2 hour of English homework establish a habit of reading regularly Using the assignment notebook is important. needs to be checked regularly by all parties Students are responsible for: Recording assignments clearly in assignment book. write NO HOMEWORK on days when they have class but no assigned work write NO CLASS on days when they have no class list long term work in daily AND long term calendar list overdue/make-up work Reading directions carefully on new assignments. understand directions before leaving class Taking home all necessary materials. keeping binders organized Using team time effectively. for clarification-talking to teachers review should not be used to complete homework due that afternoon Getting a study buddy at the beginning of the year to call with questions. Teachers are responsible for: Providing team homework policy/letter in written form at the beginning of the year. Assigning work that is relevant, worthwhile, and meaningful. Giving clear expectations. homework written on assignment board-give time at the beginning of class to go over it hard copies of long term assignments( rubrics or directions) Grading or going over work in a timely manner. Updating team calendars to monitor tests and projects. no more than 2 tests per day advance notice on tests no major tests or projects due the day after vacation communicating between Fine and Applied Arts and Foreign Language when major tests or projects coming up Assigning homework approximately 1/2 hour /subject including study time keeping in mind that this varies for individual Communicating with parents. regarding overdue work-(ie. sign assignment book with missing work) Parents are responsible for: Providing a quiet workspace. establishing routine and structure-(packing bag at night, insure child has supplies) knowing limits of role and knowing their child proofreader for final copies-reminder that spell check is not editing sounding board, resource, prompt, cheerleader time management consultant assignment book checker clarify assignments with teacher when you have questions understanding that-what takes 1/2 hour for some–might take more or less time for others Assisting with organization of notebooks/folders DO NOT DO THE WORK!!! Communicating with Teacher and Guidance counselor. attending back to school night getting teacher e-mail addresses early in the school year using teacher voice mail to communicate any concerns if a child is struggling with amount of work let the teacher know promptly INSURANCE A plan of liability insurance is offered at a nominal fee whereby parents may insure their children against accidents while going to and from school or while engaged in any school activity. In case of a claim, the parent should notify the school secretary, who will provide the form to be filled out by the physician. LOST AND FOUND There is a lost and found area outside the cafeteria where lost and found articles may be placed and/or claimed. At the start of each vacation period the “lost & found” is cleared out and unclaimed items are donated to charity. THE METCO PROGRAM The Metropolitan Council for Educational Opportunity, Inc. (METCO) is an incorporated body sponsoring an educational program involving the busing of children (African- American, Asian, Latino and Native American) from Boston to suburban communities. The METCO Program is a desegregation program in which Newton has participated since 1966. There are approximately 415 Boston students throughout Newton's 21 schools. NEWTON TESTING PROGRAM Students in our school experience formal testing in four settings; quizzes, tests and exams in their classes, citywide tests, and State mandated assessment tests (MCAS). Students also take the MCAS test, which has been administered in grades 4, 6,7, 8, and 10. MCAS aims to measure a broad range of skills, knowledge, and processes in Reading, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Writing. Results are obtained for individual students, schools and school districts. Information which we gain as a result of testing gives us an opportunity to assess a student's progress, enables us to develop curriculum which most fully supports a student's needs, and permits us most effectively to tailor individual education plans. All test results are posted in the student's record, which is available to parents through the Guidance counselor. Test results are used as one index (of many) of the student's level of achievement. Over a period of time, a pattern of test results can suggest areas of student strength and weakness and can help the student, the teacher, and the counselors. The Assistant Superintendent of Planning and Operations uses test results for broad range studies of curriculum effectiveness in the city. MCAS SCHEDULE-Spring 2008 LEP Students ( Limited English Proficient) MEPA March 10-14 LEP students in grades 3-12 Grade 6 ELA Reading Comprehension Math Grade 7 ELA Composition Sessions A & B ELA Reading Comprehension Math History & Social Science Grade 8 ELA Reading Comprehension Math Science/Tech/Engineering March 24-April 7 May 12-May 29 March 25 March 26-April 7 May 12-May 29 May 14-May 29 March 24-April 7 May 12- May 29 May 13-May 29 PARENT VISITING DAYS There are two planned parent visiting opportunities during the school year. In the Fall, parents of current students are invited to visit the school. The visit provides parents and guardians with an opportunity to observe the school in action. In the spring, an invitation is extended to parents of 5th grade students. These visits are publicized in advance either by means of the PTO newsletter or special notices, or via notices sent home from elementary schools. PARKING According to law, no automobiles are allowed in the circular drive leading to the front of the school or in the driveway on either side of the school. Fire apparatus and school buses must have free access. It is also extremely hazardous for students entering and leaving the building if this rule is violated. PROCEDURE FOR BROWN STUDENTS SCHEDULED FOR MORE THAN TWO TESTS ON THE SAME DAY If a student has more than two tests scheduled for the same day, (s)he may choose to take only two of them on a given day. In that case, (s)he should notify in advance the teacher or teachers whose tests would be postponed. A minimum of one day's notice must be given. A probable course of action for the student to follow would be to postpone the last scheduled test, but discussion and negotiation between the student and the teacher may result in another course of action. If in the process of trying to reach a decision that is appropriate for the student a conflict arises, the student should seek out his/her Guidance counselor for assistance. PTO MEMBERSHIP AND MEETINGS All parents and faculty members are urged to become members of the PTO. We are all members of the school community by virtue of having children here or by belonging to the faculty. As such we are de facto members of the PTO. PUPIL SERVICES/GUIDANCE * Articulation from elementary school-A function of the Guidance Department is preparing for incoming students from four elementary schools. In meetings with fifth grade teachers, the counselors gather information about each incoming student. Students and counselors from our school visit each elementary school to explain our program and to discuss concerns. All fifth graders are invited to spend an afternoon with us. In addition, counselors participate in meetings with parents of fifth graders and with the staff and administration of the elementary schools. Parents of incoming fifth graders are invited to meet with teachers and administrators at evening meetings and Parent visiting week scheduled in the spring. * Articulation to high school-Guidance counselors conduct orientation sessions with eighth grade students. High school syllabi are distributed and explained. Teachers and counselors explain the course options. Students complete course registration forms with their teachers' recommendations as the next step in the process. The forms then go home for parental signature. If there is a disagreement about recommended courses, parents can contact teacher or counselor. The signed registration forms are then returned to the guidance counselor and submitted to the high school. Once the program is completed and signed by all parties, it is checked by the Guidance Office and is sent to Newton South or Newton North High School. During this registration period, the high schools have evening meetings with parents and students to present information and answer questions. Also, representatives from the High schools-both teachers and counselors-visit our school to answer questions. * Chapter 766-Counselors serve as chairpersons for most evaluations of students with special needs under state law Chapter 766. This involves arranging numerous conferences, participating in the construction and implementation of educational plans, and supervising the periodic review and revision of these Individual Educational Plans (IEPS). In addition, counselors represent the school at Team Evaluations of students who are attending Brown. * Counseling-Group or individual counseling, consulting, or listening are available to students, teachers, parents, and administrators on any issue which might affect students. *Instruction-Counselors conduct Developmental Guidance groups with all their students. Other groups are formed throughout the year on an as needed basis. * METCO-In addition to full time counselors, a METCO counselor is available on a parttime basis to work with students on desegregation, academic and social issues. * Referral-All referrals for special services are overseen by the counselor of the team to which the student is assigned. The Guidance Office serves as the center of coordinating special needs services such as speech therapy, specialized tutoring, psychological services, social services, the Learning Center, foreign students, the Language Learning Disabilities Program and the Integrated program. * Student records-The Guidance Office maintains and arranges the updating of each student's cumulative folder. These records may be reviewed with your child's counselor. *School wide involvement-Counselors have the opportunity to contribute to the resolution of school-wide issues by means of making proposals or by membership on committees. * Team membership-Counselors are members of the Brown Middle School teams and clusters, thereby maintaining close contact with particular groups of teachers and students. Informal consultation is frequent. Counselors also arrange formal conferences to discuss concerns about students. (Mini-Teams). Special Education ABA Program The middle school ABA program is an inclusion based, intensive approach to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) instruction is offered at Brown Middle School. The services include a combination of supported inclusion, discrete trial session, small group activities and incidental teaching strategies to students in grades 6 through 8. The program is based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis with a focus on reinforcement systems and consistent behavior management programs. The goal for students is to increase their independence skills in all areas including academics, recreation, social, communication, self-care and motor and behavior management. These skills are approached in a variety of settings to promote generalization of the skills. Specialized services students may receive and include: • Speech and Language Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Physical Therapy • Adaptive Physical Education • Emotional/Behavioral Support • Orientation and Mobility Training • Vision/Audiology Services • • • • Specialized Curriculum Community/Pre-Vocational Training Applied Behavior Analysis Services Consulting Psychologist The Integrated Program, Grades 6, 7, and 8. The integrated program at the middle school level addresses the needs of students who are able to manage the grade level curriculum, but require significant modifications across multiple curriculum areas. The students are able to work with some independence, and do not need one to one supports throughout the day. They exhibit characteristics that may include, but are not limited to, difficulty with: strategy acquisition, generalization of concepts, integration of information, organization and planning, and decoding and/or comprehension of written material. The goal of the program is to address student’s multiple needs by providing a comprehensive range of services and a consistent, structured, and nurturing environment throughout the school day. At the same time, the integrated supports enable students to fully participate in the program. Students are offered additional supports as needed, to ensure their success in managing the curriculum. The goal of the integrated classes is to enable students with significant special needs to fully participate in the general curriculum; A special education teacher is a member of the grade level integrated program. A special education teaching assistant works under the direction of the special educator. A central component of the program is ongoing planning and communication among special education staff. Modifications of methodology, deliveries of instruction and performance criteria are provided on an individual basis. Depending on student’s individual needs, specially designed instruction is provided in a variety of areas. This may include: academic support, compensatory, systematic learning strategies, temporal and spatial accommodations; and skill development in the area of; problem solving, organization and planning, communication, and social pragmatics. Students in the integrated Classes have access to the full continuum of related special education services. RESPONSIBILITY FOR TEXTBOOKS If your child loses a schoolbook, (s)he will be asked to reimburse the school for the loss. This policy also applies to books borrowed from the library. STATE PUPIL RECORDS The pupil records policy mandated by the State is in effect. Copies of the regulations are available to parents and students through the Principal. The regulations call for the securing of records and protection of student privacy. Only authorized school personnel such as the Principal, Counselor, or Teacher have access to these records. Information cannot be seen by or sent to a third party without written permission of the parent. In addition, there is a provision for a process of review and appeal through the principal, the superintendent, and the School Committee, for information which the student or parents feel should not be in the record. Parents have the right to see their child's record. Students 14 years of age or older have the same privilege. As in the past, parents (or eligible students) who wish to see a record should contact the Guidance Office. STUDENTS RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES HANDBOOK This handbook contains information regarding student's rights and discipline in the Newton Public Schools. Students are expected to be familiar with this handbook. Students spend several periods at the beginning of the school year discussing their rights and responsibilities. Parents will receive copies of the handbook early in the year and will be asked to provide written acknowledgment that they have reviewed the handbook with their child. THINGS WE DON'T WANT AT SCHOOL In addition to items prohibited by the Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook, students are not allowed to bring basketballs, magic cards, sports card collections and laser pointers to school. IPods, MP3 players, radios, cell phones and walkman-like products are not permitted to be used during the school day. TRIPS Field trips may be planned by a teacher as an integral part of his/her curriculum. The teacher chaperones all trips and provides additional chaperones for each 11 students. Resources are available for students who may need them. A signed consent of the parent is required for any student participating in a field trip. VACATIONS In recent years an increasing number of parents have taken their children out of school to go on family vacations. Although we understand the constraints and pressure placed on families regarding this issue, we must stress that taking children out of school is disruptive to a child's education. We urge parents to make every effort to plan their vacation in such a manner as to avoid this problem. If you are taking your child out of school, please send a letter to the Principal in advance. VALUABLES There is a large safe in the school where valuables may be kept if necessary. When they are brought to school, such items should be left with someone in the school office. Students are discouraged from bringing valuables and large sums of money to school. VISITORS AND STUDENT GUESTS Visitors to the school should report their presence and the purpose of their visit to the main office staff upon entering the building. All visitors are required to sign in at the main office. Students may bring another student to visit our school on special occasions. A special form requiring parental permission, which is available in the Main office, must be filled out several days before the visit, and should be submitted to the Main office for approval by the Principal/Assistant Principals. Please note that the school reserves the right to limit these visits. • • • • Permission will be granted for a one-day visit only. Visitor must be of middle school age. Visitor must have previously attended Brown, is a potential Brown student or, be visiting from another school district. Permission from all teachers involved must be obtained. Student visitors are not permitted in the two days prior to any school vacation period, or during the last two weeks of school. * * * * CURRICULUM OVERVIEWS BY DEPARTMENT ENGLISH The English curriculum at Brown provides instruction in active reading, writing, vocabulary building, grammar, oral language, and literary analysis. Students receive instruction in the active reading strategies of visualizing, connecting, predicting, summarizing, determining what’s important, questioning, synthesizing and inferencing. Students practice these strategies before, during and after reading, and they are taught to monitor their comprehension. Students are also taught to recognize text patterns and organization as an aid to reading comprehension. Students at Brown and throughout the city are expected to fulfill an independent reading requirement. All teachers at Brown require independent reading as part of their curriculum as reading a volume of text at the student’s independent reading level gives students the opportunity to practice the active reading strategies and to expand their general knowledge. In grades six, seven, and eight students practice their writing skills as they write lengthier and more complex pieces and as they respond to creative writing prompts. Topics covered include: drafting, revising, and proofreading, sentence combining, choosing specific, interesting, and varied words, and creating vivid word images. In grade six, students write descriptive pieces, myths, news articles, summaries, letters, reflections and essays. In grade seven students write poetry, character sketches, personal essays, and narratives from different points of view. In grade eight, students write persuasive essays, short fiction, and literary essays. Often, grammatical concepts are linked to writing assignments. At each grade level, students focus on a major genre and a minor genre as well as read a class novel and several short stories. Each grade also explores a theme which overarches many of the reading selections. In grade six, students read a number of myths and the theme of the journey or quest and survival is explored. Grade six students read the novel “The Giver”. In grade seven students read a volume of poetry and explore the theme of diversity and read the novel “Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry”. In grade eight, the students’ major genre is drama and the grade eight theme is justice. Eighth grade students read the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird”. * * * * FINE AND APPLIED ARTS (FAA) The FAA Department consists of five subject areas: • Art ( Visual Arts-drawing, sculpture, and painting) • Creative Arts • Health and Wellness • Music (academic classes and instrumental/vocal) • Technology / Engineering (The Design Process, Problem Solving, Graphic Communication, Modular Technology) Sixth & Seventh graders-are scheduled into a two year program of FAA subjects consisting of one term each of Art, Health and Wellness, Music and Technology Education. Classes will meet four times in each twelve-day cycle. Eighth graders -will take a more advanced course in one of the FAA subject areas each term. Visual Art The art curriculum at Brown Middle School encourages all students’ artistic confidence and self-esteem. Techniques are taught that aid in the discovery and support of individual styles. Using watercolors, pastels, pencil, acrylic paint and clay, art students explore a variety of styles while creating two and three-dimensional projects. Art from the past and contemporary art examples are incorporated into the lessons for inspiration and as learning tools. Students are encouraged to take risks. Grades are based mostly on effort, willingness to learn and take risks, care of art supplies, and respect for others. Hopefully, their positive art experience at Brown, will help to ensure that art will always be a part of their lives in some fashion.--- Christine Vaillancourt, art teacher “Amidst all the attention given to the sciences as to how they can lead to the cure of all diseases and daily problems of mankind, I believe that the biggest breakthrough will be the realization that the arts, which are conventionally considered “useless,” will be recognized as the whole reason why we ever try to live longer or live more prosperously. The arts are the science of enjoying life.” ---John Maeda, Professor of Media Arts and Sciences, MIT. Creative Arts Creative Arts is a course integrating creative writing with visual and performing arts. Students engage in the writing of plays, short stories, poetry and other creative pieces and integrate their creative writing with painting, mask making, scene design, creative movement, musical composition and other art forms. The course is available to 6th, 7th and 8th graders as part of the FAA (Fine and Applied Arts) rotation. 6th graders focus on writing, rehearsing and performing a collaborative script among other artistic endeavors. 7th graders explore realistic themes and write children’s books, poetry and plays to be rehearsed and performed. 8th graders spend one month of the Creative Arts class doing an independent study of their own design, which focuses on several different art forms to integrate and bring to performance level. See the Brown website for curriculum outlines. Health and Wellness Health and Wellness uses a comprehensive model of wellness including social, physical, intellectual, career/occupational, emotional/mental, spiritual, and environmental health. Students are encouraged to go beyond learning what’s healthy, to incorporating healthy behaviors into their daily life. Class topics include nutrition; tobacco, alcohol, and other drugs; bullying/harassment; conflict resolution; sexual harassment; relationship and community building; stress management; body image and eating disorders; human body systems; current health issues and disease prevention. Some of the students’ favorite activities include relaxation techniques, healthy snacks, role plays/skits that demonstrate healthy communication skills and choices, and making public service announcements. Homework assignments include discussing health issues with family members and incorporating healthy choices into their daily life through the Health and Wellness Challenge. Music The Music Curriculum at Brown complies with all of the standards outlined by the State of Massachusetts and the Guidelines stated in the Newton Public Schools Curriculum Overview. The descriptions below provide the parents of Brown students with detailed information about the course content. Grade 6 My Story Becomes An Opera Students in the sixth grade music will develop the ability to sigh-sing music and develop techniques for extending their vocal range while maintaining good intonation. The students will sing songs in AB; ABA and rondo form; and define various tempo and dynamic markings (music literacy). The students will also learn different dance styles and refine their ability to perform and maintain a steady beat. The students will acquire a higher level of thinking and creative problem-solving skills in real world situations via the work that they will do on their major project: the development and presentation of a four scene original opera which will include one dance and one aria. Grade 7 Inspired Composition: My Music Students in seventh grade music will compose music in different styles with an increasing knowledge of musical devices and a clear understanding of the workings of different instruments (including the voice). The students will explore program music as well as music for music sake. The students will study the compositions of current recording artists and discuss their compositional techniques. They will be able to compose a piece of music that includes an introduction, verse, refrain, bridge and coda. The major projects for this grade level will be the printed score of an original composition using traditional notation and a research project on one instrument. Grade 8 A Music Warehouse of World Music Students in eighth grade music will continue to develop an appreciation of music from many different cultures. They will actively explore genres, styles, and traditions from different times and cultures; thinking critically to make connections between different areas of knowledge; in addition to developing a passion for listening to challenging music. They will be able to identify music of the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Contemporary music periods. They will also be able to define membranophone. Chordophone, idiophone, and aerophone. The Major projects for this grade level will be centered around the Blues and music technology Technology/Engineering (The Design Process, Problem Solving, Computer Design and Analysis, Constructing Models)-The main focus of Technology/Engineering is on the “Engineering Design Process”. We learn how to take a problem and solve it using that process which includes clearly stating the problem, conducting research through reading, video, and the internet, sketching solution ideas, choosing the best idea, building an experimental model, testing and evaluating the model, presenting the results, and finally changing the design if necessary. The entire process involves learning how to sketch, learning computer design, how to use machines and hand tools to create a prototype, how to use equipment like wind tunnels to test and evaluate, and how to use computers to analyze and communicate results. Throughout this process we will apply math and science concepts, learn about physics principles, and learn about different types of technologies used by engineers in their work. * * * * WORLD LANGUAGES Both French and Spanish part of the core curriculum at Brown, require a three-year commitment to a sequenced program. For most students this leads to a second year course in 9th grade. Students develop speaking, writing, listening and reading skills in the target language, as well as an awareness of the cultures of the countries where French and Spanish are spoken. French 6th grade curriculum topics will not be limited to, but will include: • Greetings, introductions, leave-takings • Numbers 1-100 • Giving names and ages • Family members • Ordering foods and beverages • Time, day and date • Weather and seasons • Calendar • Body parts • Preferred Activities • Classroom • Alphabet • Locating/identifying people, places and things 7th • • • • • • • • grade curriculum topics will not be limited to, but will include: Personality and physical descriptions Room furnishings Home and family City places and buildings Transportation Giving directions Making plans Activities 8th • • • • • • • • • 6th • • • • • • • • grade curriculum topics will not be limited to, but will include: Weather Leisure activities Vacations Shopping for clothes Personal grooming Daily routines Fitness Sports Spanish grade curriculum topics will not be limited to, but will include: Greetings, introductions, leave-takings Parts of the body Classroom Alphabet Numbers 1-100 Calendar Weather and seasons Personality and physical traits • • • Preferred activities Friendship School 7th • • • • • • 8th • • • • • grade curriculum topics will not be limited to, but will include: Meals, Food Health and fitness Communities Leisure activities Family Celebrations grade curriculum topics will not be limited to, but will include: Homes Household chores Shopping, gift-giving Travel and vacations Protecting the environment LATIN AND CHINESE ELECTIVES Latin is available as an optional second language. Seventh and eighth grade classes meet two times a week in a six-day cycle during the middle of the day. At the end of middle school, students will be able, and are strongly encouraged, to continue with Latin II at Newton South or North, where classes meet four times a week. The Chinese language and culture class meets two days in a six day cycle and students focus on the study of Mandarin Chinese and Chinese culture. It is intended that the students continue their study as a minor or major at the high school. * * * * INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT We are continually expanding our computer resources at Brown and also extending the ways we use computers and related technology. We currently have two Computer Centers for use by classes during block time and by individual students during Team Time. Our Writing Center has twenty-five Power Mac5400s used primarily for word processing and to run a variety of curriculum related software. In the Multimedia Center, 25 eMacs run PowerPoint, Excel for spreadsheets and other multimedia applications as well as offering Internet access. Each classroom has a computer and large screen monitor. Two groups of three mobile iMacs, one on each floor, are available to classroom teachers. The integration of technology into the curriculum in all areas continues to grow, and our students have exciting opportunities to use technology in a variety of ways. * * * * LIBRARY Our library has a full time library media specialist assisted by parent volunteers. The library is open from 8:00AM to 3:00PM except on Tuesdays when it closes at 2:30PM. The daily library schedule is flexible allowing classes to use the facility for curriculum related projects. Students may also use the library during team time or before school for independent work and reading. The library houses an extensive collection of both print and electronic resources including books, magazines, newspapers, CD-ROMs and online databases. * * * * MATHEMATICS The goal of the math department is to support classroom environments that allow the students to develop into self-motivated and independent learners who are prepared for the coming years. Math classes at Brown provide challenges to all students at each level. During the course of their middle school experience, students have the ability to move from one level of math to another based on their individual development. Math classes at Brown use Impact Mathematics (Glencoe), Courses 1, 2, and 3. 6th GRADE MATHEMATICS Our philosophy is to educate a diverse group of learners who possess a range of skills and experiences and provide them with a common math experience according to the Massachusetts sixth grade frameworks. The students are heterogeneously grouped and will be exposed to a mix of cooperative and independent learning activities that foster problem solving, risk taking and respect. In Algebra, students sketch and interpret graphs that involve real situations. In Geometry the focus is on 2-dimensional space. Students learn terminology and basic properties associated with polygons and develop formulas for area and perimeter of twodimensional figures. The Number and Operation strand, the most prominent in 6th grade, builds a through understanding of fractions, decimals, and percents. The approach to Probability and Statistics is exploratory. Students determine and compare experimental and theoretical probabilities, devise game-winning strategies, and learn to design simple simulations. 7th GRADE MATHEMATICS Students will extend the development of their algebraic reasoning skills to writing algebraic expressions to represent situations and patterns, using the distributive property, solving single-variable linear equations, recognizing linear relationships, understanding and describing rates; creating graphs, tables, and equations for linear situations; exploring direct variation; recognizing a linear relationship from a table, graph, or equation; and using graphs to make predictions. The study of geometry and measurement will focus on the understanding of volume and surface area of block structures, prisms and cylinders; determining whether a net can fold to form a given figure; similarity and scale factor; and use of the distance formula. Students’ skills and understanding of number and operations will be extended to include operations with exponents; operations with signed numbers; writing, interpreting, and scaling ratios; solving percent problems; determining whether two ratios form a proportion; setting up and solving proportions; applying ideas of similarity and proportion to solve real problems; and solving equations involving ratio, proportion, and percent. The study of Data Analysis and Probability will include calculating probabilities in situations involving multipart outcomes, conducting simple simulations to find probabilities; interpreting box plots; and developing understanding of the purpose of sampling and the importance of selecting a random sample. Topics include finding and understanding quartiles, creating and interpreting box plots, understanding and applying sampling techniques, extrapolating from sample data, understanding the importance of random samples, exploring how sample size is related to the reliability of conclusions, and interpreting data collected from probability experiments. 8th GRADE MATHEMATICS Students will extend the development of their algebraic reasoning skills to solving linear inequalities and linear systems; graphing quadratic functions; multiplying polynomials; solving quadratic equations; graphing exponential functions; and working with rational expressions. The study of geometry and measurement will focus on recognizing and describing reflectional and rotational symmetry as well as writing algebraic rules for similarity transformations, translations, reflections, and rotations. Students’ skills and understanding of number and operations will be extended to include square roots and irrational numbers. The study of Data Analysis and Probability will include performing computations involving combinations and permutations; solving probability problems that require using combinatorics to count outcomes; and fitting a line to a set of data. *In 7th and 8th grade we offer Accelerated Math. These classes will address all the above topics with additional depth, more challenging and abstract problem-solving, applications of topics in non-familiar situations and will extend their study of mathematics to topics not specifically delineated for study in that particular grade. * * * * PHYSICAL EDUCATION/WELLNESS The Physical Education/Wellness program provides an environment where all students can explore a variety of activities in a three-year sequential manner. The classes focus on improvement in fundamental skills, development and maintenance of personal fitness, a multi approach to well-being, the acquisition of social skills to help interact in individual and group activities. The classes meet opposite of the FAA activities. Sixth, seventh, and eighth graders follow a set curriculum which encompasses a wide array of sports (individual, dual, and team), non-sport (dance and cooperative games) and health related areas. Club sport activities are open to all students. The sports are selected on a student interest basis and may change with each season. Some of the programs offered are Volleyball, Basketball, Field Hockey, and Floor hockey. Students must participate in their daily Physical Education class in order to participate or compete in their after school sport or club. Interscholastic Sports are offered to both seventh and eighth graders on a tryout basis at the varsity level. Each session is approximately eight weeks long. The sports offered are Cross-Country, Football, Soccer, Basketball, Softball, Track and Field, Baseball and Lacrosse. There is a fee for all varsity team members. There is a fee cap per family per year. Triple E Sixth, seventh and eighth graders are able to participate in the “Triple E” after-school programs. This program will run four times per week providing the participants with a wide range of activities in the areas of sports, academic and leisure time clubs. Activities run from 3:00pm to 5:00pm. Schedules are printed monthly with the First Friday letter. EXCELLENCE - ENRICHMENT – EXPLORATION In an effort to meet the diverse needs of l1-l4 year olds, the Newton School Committee established the "Triple E" program. This program encompasses all extracurricular activities. These activities fall into three categories: • Athletics, including intramural and school teams, • Music, Theater and Dramatic productions, • Clubs that respond to other student interests and/or extend one or more of the disciplines (e.g. Creative writing, Computers, Poetry, etc.) The activities in the athletic and music/drama areas are largely arranged and are a continuation of past practices. It is in the third area - clubs and related activities-that we have the greatest flexibility and variety. These after school activities should provide enriching experiences ("something" in depth) or exploratory experiences ("something" new). Length of meetings, pattern of meetings, and number of meetings are all negotiable. Some of these activities are yearlong but some appear and disappear rather quickly. Please advise your son or daughter to pay close attention to the daily notices at Brown for announcements of these (and all) activities. SPORT PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT FOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS According to Massachusetts State Law, any student who plans to participate on his/her school sport team must have a physical exam performed within the year prior to the start of the Try-outs for each sport season. THE PHYSICAL EXAM FOR ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION SHOULD BE DONE BY YOUR PRIVATE PHYSICIAN. A COPY OF THIS EXAM MUST BE SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL NURSE PRIOR TO THE START OF THE SPORT. THE SPORTS PHYSICAL IS PART OF THE COMPREHENSIVE HEALTH CARE RECEIVED BY A STUDENT FROM HIS/HER HEALTH CARE PROVIDER. YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER'S FAMILIARITY WITH YOUR FAMILY HISTORY AND CHILD'S PAST MEDICAL HISTORY IS IMPORTANT IN AN ASSESSMENT FOR SPORTS PARTICIPATION. If meeting the requirement for a sports physical creates a financial hardship, please call the Health Department for assistance, (617) 796-1420. * * * * SCIENCE 6th GRADE CURRICULUM • Recognizes that scientific knowledge results from the efforts of men and women from different races, cultures and time periods. • Understands how to utilize the scientific method for solving problems. • Utilizes skills of inquiry to design experiments and learn about scientific phenomena. • Identifies experimental variables that need to be changed, controlled and measured. • Demonstrates the proper and safe use of laboratory equipment. • Utilizes various measurement tools (triple beam balance, graduated cylinder, thermometers… ) to collect accurate metric measurements of volume, mass and temperature. • Understands that everything in the world (except energy) is made of elements or combinations of elements (compounds) and the smallest part of an element is called an atom. • Compares particle movement in the 3 states of matter and understands that heat energy determines particle movement. • Differentiates between physical and chemical changes in matter. • Understands how various forces such as friction, drag and gravity affect motion. • Explores and identifies situations where potential energy is transformed into kinetic energy and vice versa. • Compares renewable and non-renewable energy sources. 7TH GRADE CURRICULUM • Use a microscope to demonstrate an understanding of magnification and microscope slide preparation • Prepares and organizes lab reports incorporating appropriate scientific terminology and method of organizing qualitative and quantitative data • Demonstrates an understanding of the importance of accuracy of observations and measurements in the scientific process • Plans and carries out experiments and field studies • Understands that the cell is the basic unit of living things • Demonstrates that multicellular organisms such as humans are made up of several interacting systems which work together to maintain the organisms • Describes the role green plants play in the environment (photosynthesis) • Traces how energy flows through a community • Demonstrates an understanding of chemical processes such as osmosis and diffusion • Explains the importance of the classification or organisms • States factors that can cause changes within an ecosystem • Demonstrates an understanding that genetic information is coded in genes and is passed from parents to offspring. 8th GRADE CURRICULUM • Engages in quantitative lab activities using equipment with precision • Constructs and/or interprets representations, such as weather maps, topographic maps, satellite images • Appreciates the limitations of models in making sense of the natural world • Understands techniques by which scientists gain information that they cannot observe directly • • • • • • Differentiate among radiation, conduction, and convection as ways heat is transferred through the earth’s system Provides evidence that water plays an important role in regulating the Earth’s climate Uses the Theory of Plate tectonics to explain past and present day geological events Understands the nature of matter and composition of the Earth Connects the occurrence of weather conditions with factors such as cloud type and barometric pressure Recognizes the observable effects of the Earth’s motions, such as: day and night, moon phases, seasons, and Coriolis effect * * * * SOCIAL STUDIES Social Studies is essential to the education of middle school students. The social studies curriculum at Brown will help students to: • Appreciate the historical and cultural influences that shape their individual identities, our national identity, and the cultures and countries that share our planet. • Respect the richness of human differences at Brown and in our larger society. • Understand and reason about successes, failures, triumphs and tragedies that exist in the ideas and actions of the people we study. • Prepare for adult lives of informed and active citizenship and civic engagement. • Learn to assess and interpret evidence, to understand change over time, to think logically and express themselves clearly. Content area for grades 6-8 Grade 6: World Geography-a view of the world outside North America • An emphasis on Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America • Major geographic concepts: location, place, human interaction with the environment, movement and regions • Other areas studies for each continent include: history, economics, culture and current issues Grade 7: Ancient and Classical Civilizations-the roots of Western Civilization • Early river civilizations, including: Mesopotamia and Egypt • Other early civilizations including: Phoenicia and ancient Israel • Ancient Greece and Rome Grade 8: US History- Revolution to Reconstruction • Causes and Events of the American Revolution • The United States Constitution and Bill of Rights • Expansion in the 1800’s, including topics of : industrialization, the slavery controversy, social reform, westward expansion, and political change • The Civil War era * * * * SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEMBERS – 2006 Newton Public Schools Education Center, 100 Walnut St. Newtonville, MA 02460 617-559-6110 www.newtonpublicschools.com schoolcommittee@newtonpublicschools.com Ward I Name/Address Gail Glick 24 Carleton St. Newton, 02458 Reenie Murphy 53 Trowbridge Ave. Newtonville, 02460 Anne Larner 68 Myrtle St. West Newton, 02465 Jonathan Yeo 152 Grove St. Auburndale, 02466 Susan Heyman 70 Varick Rd. Waban, MA 02468 Claire Sokoloff 41 Oxford Rd. Newton Centre, MA 02459 VII Marc Laredo (Vice-Chairperson) 31 Philmore Rd. Newton, 02458 Dori Zaleznik (Chairperson) 25 Skyview Circle Newton Centre, MA 02459 Mayor David Cohen Newton City Hall 1000 Commonwealth Ave. Newton Centre, 02459 (H) 527-9889 Telephone (H) 964-5252 II (H) 332-5272 III (H) 965-4746 IV (H) 630-8180 V (H) 332-4332 VI (H) 527-2219 VIII (H) 244-5380 (B) 796-1100