Welches School

Welches Middle School offers extra-curricular activities for 6th-8th grade students. We encourage all students to participate in extracurricular activities and athletics. Student clubs/athletics/activities are a privilege and students must EARN the privilege to attend these events. Students may lose the privilege of attending these activities because of poor academics, behavior, or attendance.  

ATHLETIC FEES: The fee for participation in athletics is $55 per student per sport. The fee is to be paid to the front office and is due prior to the first contest. Athletes must also complete the required sports paperwork and have an up-to-date sports physical on file at WMS.

During the school year, activity days are held for all Welches students.  Activities may include:  a fun run, festival, a dance, computer games, game room, movie, sports activities, or an off-campus event.  Activity days take place during regular school hours and all school expectations apply. Activity Days are a privilege and students must EARN the privilege to attend these events.

Throughout the school year, assemblies may be held, including awards and student recognition assemblies, traveling professional programs, and student performances.  Students are expected to be a courteous audience and show their respect with applause. Yelling, whistling or booing is prohibited.  Band and choir concerts are held each year, and all expectations of behavior apply at these events.

At Welches, we encourage good school attendance, because it contributes to a student’s success in school.  We know it is essential to attend school regularly and to be on time to every class.

It is important that students and parents clearly understand the following procedures regarding attendance at Welches School.

1. If a student is absent or late to school, a parent or guardian must call, email, or provide written documentation to the school office at their earliest convenience to report the absence. 

• Any absence in excess of three days may require being prearranged or medical documentation to be excused.

2. If a student is absent and a parent or guardian does not provide an excuse by calling or emailing the office prior to daily attendance, an automated phone caller may call the home to alert the parent of their student’s absence.
3. If a student is late to school, a parent or guardian must call, email, or provide written documentation to the school office and the student must report to the office for an excused tardy pass before going to class. An automated phone caller may call home to alert the parent of their student’s tardiness.
4. If a student needs to be dismissed early, a parent or guardian must call, email, or provide written documentation to the school office on the day they need to be dismissed.
5. If a student is absent from school for a legitimate reason, it is the student’s responsibility to check with their teachers during passing time, before, or after school to arrange for make-up work.
6. Parent/Guardian must sign their student “out” at the attendance window in the Welches School office if the student is being picked up during normal school hours.

• Picture identification may be required

Tardy – All students are required to be in class before the tardy bell rings.  An unexcused tardy to class will result in the student earning a written warning upon the third tardy (Wildcat Warning). Class tardies reset each quarter.

The state of Oregon has one of the worst attendance rates in the country. Research studies show that success in high school is highly impacted by a students’ ability to attend school. Schools and families must work together to ensure that students are attending school. Regular attendance is defined as attending 90% or more of the school days. The state defines a student as “chronically absent” for anyone below the 90% attendance rate. 

Welches School follows the Oregon Trail School District Policy (policy JED included) in defining excused and unexcused absences. The following attendance codes will be used in noting a students’ absence:

Students will be responsible for making up missed assignments and/or tests. The student is responsible for contacting the teacher either before school, after school, during passing time, or by email to arrange for making up missed assignments and/or tests due to absence.

Late Work and/or Make-Up Work

During a unit, a student can turn in any work (assignment/practice, formative task, etc.) for grading without penalty for being late. Students can make up/redo, improve any work (assignment/practice, formative task, etc.) during a unit with the purpose of demonstrating greater understanding.

Summative Retakes/Test Correction

Students will be provided with opportunities to retake summative assessments. This could come in the form of a test correction, alternative assessment, or revision.

No make-up work, tests or grade changes will be accepted beyond two weeks after the completion of any final grading period.

When a student knows they are going to be out of school, it is important that they request homework two or more days prior to the absence. Homework may be requested for an extended absence (two days or longer). However, it may not be possible to provide the student with all of the work for the absence. Please remember, students will have the same number of days as they were absent to complete make-up assignments and/or tests that the student missed while absent.  In-class instruction may not be able to be replicated outside of class.  Students are still responsible for standards and content they miss due to absences.

Homework requests must be made 24 hours in advance to allow teachers time to prepare lessons and materials.

Students are to place their backpacks in lockers upon arriving at school each day.  Students will be expected to carry necessary books, notebooks, etc. to class.  Our schedule requires students to plan ahead to avoid the need of going to their locker after every class period. This policy is enacted to insure students are carrying acceptable items into classrooms, to decrease the severe book damage which occurs when backpacks are dropped, and to address general safety issues when backpacks are left in the aisles and doorways of classrooms.

Students are welcome to ride their bikes to and from school but must assume responsibility for the security of their bikes by locking them up during the day. Skateboards are not allowed on the bus. Students may not ride on school property/sidewalks at any time.

BUS RIDING IS A PRIVILEGE THAT IS REVOCABLE AT ANY TIME

School buses and bus stops are considered a school area. All school-wide expectations and consequences will apply. Students are expected to act safely on all school transportation vehicles. Inappropriate behavior may result in bus privileges being suspended or denied. To promote student safety, video cameras may be used on school transportation vehicles while in transit.

Bus passes:  A written parent permission note or phone call MUST be presented to the office in the morning to receive a bus pass to get off the bus at a different bus stop than usual, or to ride a different bus than usual. Students will not be permitted to call for a same-day change during the school day. Please call with transportation changes prior to 2pm in order to provide time for office staff to create the new pass. 

BUS RULES 

1. Students being transported are under the authority of the bus drivers. 
2. Fighting, wrestling, and boisterous activity are prohibited on the buses. 
3. Students will use the emergency doors only in cases of emergency. 
4. Students will be on time for their buses both morning and evening. 
5. Students will not bring firearms, weapons, or other potentially hazardous objects onto the buses. 
6. Students will remain seated while buses are in motion. 
7. The bus drivers may assign students seats. 
8. When students must cross the road, they will cross in front of the bus or as instructed by the bus driver. 
9. Students will not extend their hands, arms, or heads through bus windows. 
10. Students must have written permission to leave buses other than at home or school. 
11. Students will converse in normal tones; loud or vulgar language is prohibited, as are obscene gestures. 
12. Students will not open or close windows without permission of drivers. 
13. Students will keep buses clean and must refrain from damaging them. 
14. Students will be courteous to the drivers, fellow students, and to passers-by. 
15. Students who refuse to immediately obey the directions of the driver or who refuse to obey regulations may forfeit their privilege to ride on the buses.
16. Students will not bring animals, except approved assistance guide animals.

Disciplinary Procedures for Violations 

• Level Two Bus Citations - Will be addressed in the same manner as a minor write up by school administration. 
• Level Three Bus Citations -  Will be addressed in the same manner as a major referral by school administration. 
• Severe or repeated Violations: Any severe violation may result in removal from the bus and/or immediate suspension of the student up to a 1-year expulsion. There will be a hearing at this time, arranged by the building principal, involving the student, the bus driver, the parent and the principal.

In all instances, the appeal process may be used if the student and/or parent desires.

Welches School has a closed campus, and students are to remain on school grounds from the time they arrive in the morning until they are dismissed at the end of the day.  If a student needs to leave school for an appointment, they should bring a note to school on the morning of the appointment.  A parent or other authorized person needs to sign the student out at the office.  If the student returns to school on the same day, they need to check back in at the office.  Students choosing to leave campus without permission will face disciplinary action and law enforcement may be contacted.

It is the general policy that Oregon Trail School District network facilities are to be used for instructional purposes in a responsible, efficient, ethical, and legal manner in accordance with the mission of the Oregon Trail School District. A student who violates this policy may be denied the use of school computers.

Chromebooks:

Welches Middle School has a 1:1 system for student technology. Every student will have access to, and will be permanently assigned, a chromebook for their use at school. Students will check out their device at the start of each school day, be responsible for transporting it to all classes during the day, and will return it to a charging station at the end of each day. Students MAY NOT take their assigned chromebook home at the end of the day. Charging stations will be available during lunchtime. Students are responsible for maintaining their chromebook in good working condition, and will be taught how to request tech help or repairs for normal ‘wear and tear’ issues. For damage beyond typical wear & tear, or for complete loss of a chromebook, students will be held accountable for repair or replacement costs. The chromebook contract will be signed by students and parents at the start of the school year, and a copy can be found on p. 24 of the handbook.

Welches School is committed to upholding the expectations of the Oregon Trail School District Code of Conduct. This information can be found on the district website.

A student involved in a conflict or dispute with another student should try to work it out with that student first.  The next step would be to talk to a teacher or counselor to request assistance.  If a student has a conflict with a teacher, they should try to resolve it with the teacher first.  If necessary, the student may request a meeting with an administrator to discuss their concern or conflict.

State law provides that restraining orders issued under FAPA (Family Abuse Prevention Act) are effective for one year from the date of issuance. Custodial parents may authorize in writing the release of their child to another individual. Students must notify the school office prior to leaving campus with anyone other than a custodial parent. Students will only be released to designated adults listed on the registration form unless the parent communicates directly with the school.

Dances are a privilege and students must meet certain academic and behavior standards to attend. All dances are school sponsored activities, which means that all Welches School rules and expectations apply. Students that do not follow these expectations will be removed from the dance and may receive disciplinary action.

All students who attend Welches School are also expected to respect the school community by dressing appropriately for a K-12 educational and professional environment. Student attire should facilitate participation in learning as well as the health and safety of students and the adults that supervise them. This dress code is intended to provide guidance for students, staff, and parents. 

Requirements

• Clothing must cover areas from one armpit across to the other armpit, down to approximately 5 inches in length on the upper thighs. Clothing must cover undergarments. Tops must have shoulder straps and no midriff may be visible. 
• Shoes must be worn at all times and should be safe for the school environment (bedroom shoes or slippers shall not be worn). 
• See-through or mesh garments must not be worn without appropriate coverage underneath that meet the minimum requirements of the dress code. 
• Specialized courses may require specialized attire, such as athletic or safety gear.

Additional Specifications

• Clothing may not depict, imply, advertise, or advocate illegal, violent, or lewd conduct, weapons, or the use of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, drugs or other controlled substances. 
• Clothing may not display or imply vulgar, discriminatory, obscene language/images or depict hate speech/imagery targeting groups based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, or any other protected classification. 
• Head coverings including but limited to hats, hoodies, beanies, and caps are not allowed inside unless permitted for religious, medical, or other reasons approved by school administration. 
• Sunglasses, chains, spikes, and trench coats may not be worn inside the building.
• Clothing and accessories that endanger student or staff safety may not be worn. Full size flags may not be worn as an item of clothing or attached to clothing or backpacks.
• Apparel, jewelry, accessories, tattoos, or manner of grooming that, by virtue of its color, arrangement, trademark or any other attribute, denotes membership in a gang is not allowed.

The administration at each school reserves the right to determine what constitutes appropriate dress. Students who do not adhere to these guidelines may be asked to remedy and/or not be allowed to attend class. Parents will be called if appropriate clothing is not available or the student refuses dress-code appropriate clothing.

Drills are held regularly throughout the school year and are under the direction of the Principal or designee. Since fires and earthquakes have occurred in the past and an alarm indicates an emergency situation, all drills must be taken seriously. Procedures are in place for emergency closure of school buildings to provide safe protection of the students. It is a violation of State law and School District policy to cause false alarms for fire, bomb threats, or other emergencies. Disciplinary action will be taken that may include expulsion recommendation and legal prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.

Cell phones – Cell phones are to be stored in lockers (backpacks for elementary) and turned to silent or off during school hours of 9:00AM to 3:55PM. Cell phones that are outside of a locker (backpack for elementary) without administration approval will be confiscated. Cell phones are not to be used in the classroom even for educational purposes. 

Smartwatches/step-trackers like FitBit or Garmin – These electronic devices need to be used as watches only during school hours. If students use them for other purposes during that time, they may be asked to put them away in their lockers or staff will follow the confiscation procedures if students repeatedly misuse these items.

eReader/Kindles/iPads/iPods may be used before or after school or as approved by the classroom teacher for educational purposes. Students should request permission from classroom teachers prior to using the reader device. Approved electronic devices may be used while riding on school buses. Inappropriate use of the device at school will result in losing the privilege to use the device at school or on school buses.

Other – laser pointers, wireless headphones, including AirPods, and other games/devices will not be permitted at school. There may be occasional reward days where rewarded students will be INVITED to bring an item otherwise not allowed.

• Electronic devices and items not being used for educational purposes MUST be stored in student lockers during school hours.
• The school district/administration is not responsible for lost or stolen items. 
• Caution to parents – Cell phone communication, texting, and social networking sites (Facebook, Snapchat, Twitter, etc.) are common practice with adolescents. Be sure to supervise and view their communication to adequately safeguard your child from harassment, bullying, and intimidation.

Electronic Device Confiscation Procedures – The following procedure will be followed anytime a student is misusing an electronic device or is using a cellphone between 9:00AM to 3:55PM.

• 1st Offense – The student will receive a verbal warning and direction to put their device in their locker.
• 2nd Offense –  The device will be confiscated by staff and turned into the office. The device must be picked up by the student from the office at the end of the day. The student will be issued a Wildcat Warning.
• 3rd Offense – The device will be confiscated by staff and turned into the office. The device must be picked up by a parent from the office. The student will be issued a Wildcat Warning.
• Additional Offenses – The device will be confiscated and turned into the office. The student will be issued a Major Referral and the device must be picked up by a parent. Students may also serve a detention along with following a personal electronic device plan arranged through administration.

Students will be given time to eat breakfast and lunch while at school. Some teachers may allow students to have a healthy snack in their classroom. This is at teacher discretion, and can be revoked at any time. It is important that food garbage be thrown away appropriately. Candy and other unhealthy snacks should be kept to a minimum. 

Water bottles are strongly encouraged to be brought from home each day, and are allowed in classrooms and in the gym. Energy drinks are discouraged from being consumed at school, and are limited to one per day, at lunch only. Soda can be consumed during lunch, and recycling is encouraged.

Fighting is addressed as a safety concern because of the serious threat of harm to individuals. Any student who strikes another student will lose the privilege of attending school for a period of time. Irresponsible horseplay, roughhousing, or encouragement of others will result in similar consequences.  Participants will be disciplined based on the severity of the behavior.  Promoting a fight will result in discipline as well.

The following grading scale is in effect at all middle schools in the Oregon Trail School District; A, B, C, D and F. Grades and GPAs will be determined on a percentage basis with:

• A= 90 - 100%
• B= 80 - 89% 
• C= 70 – 79%
• D= 60 - 69%
• F= 50 - 59%

A zero in the gradebook with a Missing (mi) mark next to it indicates the student has not yet completed and/or turned in the assignment. Zeros are calculated at 50% in the gradebook. 

Grades are divided into three assignment categories: 

• Practice Assignments = 10% of the overall grade
• Formative Assignments = 40% of the overall grade 
• Summative Assignments = 50% of the overall grade

How is your GPA (grade point average) determined? Each grade is worth points: A = 4, B = 3, C = 2, D = 1, F = 0. Add up the points for all grades and divide by the number of classes taken. Grades on individual assignments are to be determined by each individual teacher. Please see each teacher’s syllabus for additional information on grading.

ACADEMIC HONESTY AND INTEGRITY:

Welches School owes its students an environment that teaches and supports honesty and integrity.  Academic dishonesty harms the student who is dishonest because it results in a false evaluation of his or her performance and mastery of the subject matter. It also harms other students by lowering the value of their honest achievement. For these reasons, cheating and plagiarism are unacceptable.  

HONOR ROLL:

The Honor Roll is a distinction reserved for students with a grade point average between a 3.0 and 4.0. Students with a GPA of 3.00-3.49 will be placed on the “B” Honor Roll, and those with a 3.5 GPA or above will be placed on the “A” Honor Roll. No student may be on the Honor Roll with an incomplete grade. Students will be recognized at the Academic Award Ceremony at the end of 1st semester. Students will also be recognized for Perfect Attendance and Outstanding Performance. 

PARENTVUE and STUDENTVUE:

In order to access ParentVUE, parents will need to communicate with the office and receive their pass code. ParentVUE is intended to provide parents with a tool to follow their student’s performance.  ParentVUE is updated periodically. It will represent a student’s most current grade in the teacher’s grade book. The ParentVUE account is also used to complete student registration and enrollment verification each year. StudentVUE is a version of the program that allows students to see their grades and other individual student information. 

REPORT CARDS AND PROGRESS REPORTS:

Report cards will be issued approximately one week after the end of each quarter. Teachers will send electronic progress reports via email bi-monthly. Parents can call the school and request a progress report at any time. Please contact the school if you would like additional support for tracking your students' work completion.

Any action directed at another person based on race, color, sex, marital status, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, or disability in any educational program, activity, or employment will not be tolerated in the Oregon Trail School District. Violations of this nature will be responded to in a very serious manner. Violators will be subject to disciplinary action including, but not limited to, suspension, expulsion, and referral to the local law enforcement authorities. It is our intent to establish a "RACISM FREE ZONE" in our school. We believe that all students and staff are entitled to exist in a positive environment based on the belief that everyone can be successful. Harassment includes, but is not limited to, harassment on the basis of race, religion, sex, national origin, disability, parental or marital status or age. 

INTIMIDATION – When a person is subjected to force or threat within the school setting. 

SEXUAL HARASSMENT – Is the introduction of unwelcome sexual activities or comments. Sexual harassment occurs when a person is subjected to unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual favors; the display of sexually suggestive objects, pictures, or innuendos; or any other nonverbal conduct of a sexual nature. 

HARASSMENT – When a person is disturbed consistently by unwelcome pestering, tormenting, abusive words and/or gestures, including cyberbullying, that is designed to embarrass, distress, agitate, disturb, or trouble students.

Harassment is a violation of district policy and regulations and may also be a violation of criminal or other laws. Students whose behavior is found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to an investigation procedure, which may result in discipline, up to, and including suspension and expulsion. The district has the authority to report students in violation of this policy to law enforcement officials. The district may also file a request to suspend driving privileges. Retaliation against a student because the student has filed a harassment complaint or assisted or participated in a harassment investigation or proceeding, is also prohibited. A student who is found to have retaliated against another violation of this policy will be subject to discipline up to and including suspension and expulsion. The district will promptly and reasonably investigate allegations of harassment. Any student or staff member who has knowledge of or feels he/she is a victim of harassment should immediately report his/her concerns to the building principal or a person in authority if the principal is the subject of the complaint. If the complaint is deemed to be or may be a Title IX situation the complaint will be forwarded to the district Title IX officer in a timely manner.

The library has resources to support students' work and reading needs. So that resources are available for all students, materials are expected to be returned or renewed on time. Students who do not follow these expectations may receive disciplinary action, loss of activities, or accrue fees.

All students will be assigned a hall locker for books and personal belongings.  Lockers should be treated with respect and responsibility so that damage does not occur.  

1. Lockers are provided for students to use, but they remain the property of the school, which retains the right to inspect the lockers at any time.
2. Lockers are the responsibility of the student to whom they are assigned. Switching lockers without explicit permission from the office is not permitted. Storing personal belongings in other student’s lockers is not permitted. 
3. Locker combinations and lockers should not be shared with others, to safeguard the user and the user’s personal belongings.
4. Students are responsible to not leave open beverage containers in lockers. 
5. Alcohol, tobacco, drugs, or sex-related paraphernalia or pictures of said items are not allowed to be in or on lockers.
6. Students are encouraged to carry textbooks and avoid returning to their locker at the end of each class.
7. Backpacks and appropriate personal items may be brought to school, but must be kept in lockers during the school day.
8. Items may not be posted on the outside of the locker.

Student clothing, particularly jackets and shoes, should be clearly labeled with the student’s name.  Items that are clearly labeled can be returned to their owner.  If students have misplaced an item, they need to check the appropriate lost and found areas. Valuables (watches, jewelry, eyeglasses) can be claimed at the office. All unclaimed clothing items will be donated to a local non-profit organization at the end of the year.

School-wide expectations for respectful, responsible and safe behaviors are expected while in the cafeteria. Some of those expectations include:

• Stay in the designated areas in the cafeteria.
• Wait courteously in line.
• All food/beverage MUST stay in the cafeteria.
• Do not ask others for food. 
• No sharing food or drinks. 
• Stay seated. No switching tables. 
• Take responsibility for cleaning off tables and floor area where you sat or if you have a spill.
• Use appropriate dining manners.
• Avoid caffeinated energy drinks. No sharing of energy drinks.

If a student needs medication while at school (including non-prescription aspirin and cough drops or any over-the-counter medicine), the parent must complete a form to keep on file at the office. CBD/cannabis and other non-FDA regulated products may not be administered at school or by school personnel.  All medication must be brought in its original container by a parent.  Distribution, possession, or consumption of any medication including over-the-counter or non-FDA regulated substances will result in disciplinary action.  Designated school personnel will dispense meds to students based on parental instructions.  Students may carry medication needed for emergency use (such as an inhaler), if a parent completes the proper paperwork. 

The office provides basic first aid supplies, such as band-aids and ice packs.  Students should report any school related injuries to their classroom teacher and to the office.

At Welches School, students are encouraged to be friendly and respect one another. However, open displays of affection such as hugging, holding hands, kissing, etc. will NOT be permitted during school hours or at school events. Parents will be called to help reinforce this policy. Students will receive appropriate disciplinary consequences for violating this expectation.

To maintain order and discipline in the schools, and to protect the safety and welfare of students and school personnel, school authorities may, upon reasonable suspicion, search a student, their possessions, student lockers, or student automobiles and may seize any illegal, unauthorized or contraband materials discovered in the search. A student’s failure to permit searches and seizures will be considered grounds for disciplinary action.

The Oregon Trail School District is concerned about the health of our students, employees, and community members, therefore it is NOT allowable to smoke or be in possession of tobacco on or near school grounds.  Students cannot be under the influence of, possess, use, give, sell or exchange any drugs, alcohol, tobacco or vape.  Students will be suspended and law-enforcement authorities may be involved if they violate this district policy.

Per Oregon Trail School Board Policy IKFB, all students in good standing academically and behaviorally may participate and receive a diploma or a certificate of attendance. The school reserves the right to exclude any student from participating in promotion exercises and school related activities if they are not in good standing in the areas of academics and/or behaviors. Determination regarding participation in promotion activities will be made by the principal or his/her designee.

Students are encouraged to make personal plans in advance to reduce the need to use the office phone during the school day.  However, we will make every attempt to allow students to use the office phone for urgent matters to communicate with parent/guardian(s).  The student office phone is located in the attendance office. Students must use the office phone and not their personal cell phone unless given permission by the office to do so. School-wide expectations for respectful and responsible behavior are expected in the office. The office area is a professional setting where the office staff is working with students, parents, and community.

Textbooks are provided for all students.  Textbooks must be returned in the same condition as when they were checked out.  If books are damaged or lost, a replacement fee will be charged. In general, a typical hardbound book costs between $35 and $115 to replace.a

The school reserves the right to exclude any student from participating in school activities or privileges if they have unpaid fees from the current or past years for lost or damaged textbooks, library books, activity fees, athletic equipment, or any other reason that a fee has been assessed as a result of loss or damage to school property.

Visitors during school hours should arrange the visit in advance, if possible.  Visitors need to check in at the office to obtain a visitor’s pass before going to any area of the school to ensure the safety of our students.  Students not enrolled in Welches School will not be allowed to visit students or classrooms or attend extra-curricular activities.

Oregon school law is very specific regarding students who bring a weapon to school. Students who bring a dangerous or deadly weapon, as defined by OTSD Board Policy, to Welches School will be recommended for expulsion for one calendar year.  Weapons are defined as, but not limited to, firearms, knives of any size, metal knuckles, razors, explosives, noxious or irritating gasses (smoke or sulfate bombs), incendiary devices (firecrackers), poisons (mace, pepper spray), and any item commonly used to harass, threaten or endanger others.

Be Respectful:

• of school property and the property of other people
• of the feelings of others
• of yourself, classmates, and staff

Be Responsible:

• by coming to class prepared and being on time to every class
• for keeping classrooms, hallways and restrooms clean
• by being involved in school activities
• by putting forth your best effort in class

Be Safe:

• in the classroom
• as you pass in the hallway
• during lunch break
• on the bus

At Welches School, every effort is made to be certain that students are safe and have a positive and constructive learning environment where they can grow academically and mature as individuals.  It is a school where students are not allowed to be picked on, called names or put down by others.  If a student is mistreated, he/she should let an adult know. The code of conduct for Welches School students encompasses four basic concepts. Each student is expected to (1) show evidence of learning, (2) be punctual and regular in attendance, (3) demonstrate behavior appropriate for the school setting, and (4) respect the authority of the school. Students who disrupt the classroom learning environment are subject to appropriate disciplinary action.

The following behaviors do NOT promote a safe environment and will NOT be tolerated:

• Fighting, physical assaults
• Disruptive conduct, insubordination, defiance, or willful disobedience
• Vandalism, damage, or destruction of school property
• Harassment/Bullying/Intimidation
• Sexual Harassment 
• Narcotics, alcohol and/or drugs
• Profanity or obscene language/gestures
• Tobacco/nicotine in any form
• Gang related activities, clothing, symbols, or paraphernalia
• Flammable objects such as, but not limited to, matches, cigarette lighters, fireworks, poppers
• Verbal or written threats of any kind.

Students should know that the best discipline is self-discipline.  We want to establish traditions of courtesy, cooperation, friendliness and an attitude of respect for people and property.

In the event that a student needs help with self-discipline, they should talk with their parents, teachers or school counselor.  Students will receive appropriate consequences for inappropriate behavior choices. In most cases parents will be notified.  The consequences received will depend on the nature and seriousness of the inappropriate behavior, the number of previous misbehaviors, and the guidelines of the Oregon Trail School District “Code of Conduct.”

The PBIS Matrix is subject to change and/or is updated throughout the year. These adjustments will be announced to students through the morning announcements/advisory/individual teacher directions.

Students are encouraged to make positive behavior choices at all times.  Students will receive positive reward slips from staff or volunteers for observable demonstration of RESPECTFUL, RESPONSIBLE, AND SAFE behaviors. These slips are currency to students and can be used for additional privileges and/or prizes daily, weekly, and monthly. There are school-wide incentives, classroom incentives, and individual incentives for students to select how they will spend their positive rewards.

Although students are taught, re-taught, and encouraged to follow school-wide and classroom expectations at all times, some students choose to display inappropriate behaviors during the school year.  Students who are observably not following the school-wide expectations will receive a “minor” for the violation and staff will re-teach the appropriate expectation. This minor referral is called a Wildcat Warning. 

When a minor is issued, students will be informed by the staff writing the violation. A duplicate copy of the minor is provided to the student and the student is required to share this information with their parent/guardian(s). 

After an accumulation of five minors in a semester or three minors in a given month (not necessarily from the same class or teacher), the student may be assigned a referral and appropriate disciplinary consequences will be assigned by the administration.

Lunch Detention is a consequence used at Welches School. When a student is serving lunch detention, they report to the office or predetermined location for their entire lunch/recess period. Students bring their lunch to the detention along with something to work on or read.

“After School Detention” is a consequence used at Welches School. “After School Detention” is generally held on Wednesday afternoons, from 2:55-3:55 PM, on Early Release Days.  Students are expected to bring class assignments to work on during this time and to bring appropriate academic reading materials.  Parents will be notified when their students are scheduled for after school detention.  Parents are responsible for transportation following after school detention.

ISS is defined as removal of a misbehaving student from attendance in their classes. Classroom work will be sent to ISS. Students will be expected to follow all ISS classroom rules and to work on appropriate assignments as directed and returned to class upon demonstrated behavior improvement/correction. Should a student have poor behavior during in-school suspension, he/she will be disciplined with out of school suspension.

OSS is defined as removal of a misbehaving student from attendance of school. Administration will be in contact with the individual student’s family/guardian to discuss the specifics of the suspension including when the student can return to school and/or what steps need to be taken before the student can return to school.

The principal/assistant principal (or designee), after reviewing the available information, may recommend to the superintendent that a student be expelled. Expulsion is defined as removal of a misbehaving student from attendance of school for more than 10 days. Expulsion of a student shall not extend beyond one calendar year. The process for expulsion is outlined in the Oregon Trail School District Code of Conduct.

The following chart shows the consequential actions that may occur for each infraction. A range is given for a first offense, and a separate range for a repeated offense or a serious violation. In determining the appropriate consequence for a violation within the given range, the age of the student and the past pattern of behavior will be considered. This document applies to all schools in the Oregon Trail School District. Each school is authorized to determine specific consequences or guidelines unique to that school that are not in conflict with this code. Students are subject to discipline for conduct at school, while traveling to and from school, at school sponsored events, while at other schools in the District, and while off campus whenever such conduct has a direct effect on the discipline or general welfare of the school. If a student has demonstrated excellent behavior and then becomes involved in an infraction, school officials will consider the student’s positive behavior record prior to taking any action. For students with disabilities eligible under IDEA and/or Section 504, behavioral consequences will be related to the requirements of IDEA and Section 504 and the student’s disability. If a student has continually repeated or been involved in inappropriate conduct, then consequential action will probably be the maximum action listed.

I have read and understand the range of behavioral consequences set by Welches Middle School.

Student Name (Print): _________________________Signature: _____________________ Date: ______

Parent/Guardian Name (Print): _____________________Signature: ___________________ Date: _____

Welches School staff and students are committed to making our school a safe and caring place for all. We will treat each other with respect, and we will refuse to tolerate bullying in any form at our school.

Definition: Bullying is a continued, one-sided offense that intentionally makes someone else feel threatened, belittled, afraid, ashamed, left out, hurt or in any other way upset.  It is defined by the victim and is not excused because the bully thinks that he or she was “just joking.” School bullying includes all incidents that take place on or next to school grounds, at any district-sponsored activity, on school transportation, or at any official school bus stop.

Examples of bullying may include:

• Hurting someone physically by hitting, kicking, tripping, pushing, and so on.
• Spreading rumors about someone.
• Cyber-bullying – any use of technology (cell phones, social networking websites, instant messaging, email, etc.) to bully others.
• Stealing or damaging another person’s things.
• Ganging up on someone.
• Teasing someone in a hurtful way.
• Using put-downs, such as making fun of the person’s name, race, or gender.
• Leaving someone out on purpose or trying to get other kids not to play with someone.

All bullying will result in parent contact and appropriate consequences based on the severity of the bullying. The following disciplinary actions may be taken when a student bullies:

• Review Anti-Bullying Practices with counselor and/or administrator
• Complete and return letter of apology
• Lunch Detention for 2 days
• Write a 2-page paper on bullying and its consequences
• Serve after school detention
• Complete a Harassment Contract with clear consequences with administrator
• In-School Suspension ½ day to 5 days
• Out of School Suspension with a required reinstatement hearing

Rev. 6/12

For more information, refer to OTSD Policy JFCF/GBNA-AR

I have read and understand the anti-bullying practices set by Welches Middle School.

Student Name (Print): _________________________Signature: _____________________ Date: ______

Parent/Guardian Name (Print): _____________________Signature: ___________________ Date: _____

Please review, sign, and return this contract.

Students will be using Chromebooks on a daily basis at WMS. Each student will be assigned a Chromebook to use and take care of each day at school. These Chromebooks will be used to access our online curriculum and complete other class work, as directed by the teacher. They provide us with great opportunities, but must be cared for properly, so they remain usable for students. The Chromebooks that we have are pretty tough, so basic care will keep them in like-new condition for years. Chromebooks are the property of the school district.  Teachers/Staff may inspect the Chromebooks at any time.

I make the following promises when using WMS Chromebooks: 

1. I will take care of my assigned Chromebook. 
2. I will know where my assigned Chromebook is at all times and never leave the Chromebook unattended. 
3. I will place it in my locker, or in the charging station at lunchtime. 
4. I will practice digital responsibility on the internet and will not “peruse” the Internet, or use chat/email/forum/social media/video/image/music sites
5. I will not change any settings on my assigned Chromebook, including backgrounds that install Chrome “extensions”.
6. I will wait for my assigned Chromebook to FULLY LOG OUT before returning it at the end of the day. 
7. Only I am permitted to use the Chromebook assigned to me. 
8. I will always carry my assigned Chromebook when it is CLOSED with two hands or by the handle. 
9. I will keep food and beverages away from my assigned Chromebook since they may cause damage to the device.
10. I will not disassemble any part of my assigned Chromebook or attempt any repairs. 
11. I will use the Technology HelpDesk to report minor problems or repairs to my assigned Chromebook.
12. I will not bang, slam, or hit my assigned Chromebook. 
13. I will use my assigned Chromebook in ways that are educationally appropriate and meet Oregon Trail School District and WMS expectations, as assigned or given permission by my teacher. 
14. I will not place decorations (such as stickers, markers, etc.) or customize the settings on my assigned Chromebook. I will leave the existing stickers in place.
15. I will not touch another student’s assigned Chromebook. 
16. I understand that I am responsible for purposeful or excessive damage, loss or destruction of my assigned Chromebook. 
17. I understand that I must return my Chromebook at the end of the school year in order to participate in last day Field Trips. 
18. I will follow the policies outlined in the Student Handbook and any laid out in the classroom in regards to behavior expectations and technology. 
19. I will report damage to my assigned Chromebook to my teacher immediately, and then to the Technology HelpDesk.
20. I understand that if I cause damage to the Chromebook, I may lose Chromebook access until the device is repaired or replaced. 

I understand and agree to the stipulations set forth in the Welches Middle School Chromebook use contract. 

Student Name (Please Print): ___________________________________________ 

Student Signature: ____________________________________________________ 

Parent Signature: _____________________________________________________

Date Issued: __________ OTSD Chromebook Asset Tag: ______________________

The Oregon Trail School District is committed to creating an environment that fosters academic honesty and personal integrity.  Our goal is to guide students on their educational journeys and to help them to become independent learners.  Developing this at an early age helps students to acquire study habits that they will carry with them throughout their academic careers and lives.

Academic integrity focuses on the expectation that all students will do their own work.  Students will use their own ideas and knowledge rather than representing the work of others as their own (plagiarism), and copying answers on tests and homework.  Students, parents, and teachers can work together to uphold the highest ethical and academic standards.   

We encourage students to read the pledge on the following page with their parents and discuss it prior to signing.

For further information please feel free to contact your teacher or principal.

Are you completing your assignments honestly?

Examples of Academic Misconduct:

Plagiarism – the representation of the ideas or work of another person as your own.

Collusion – supporting misconduct by other students, as in allowing your work to be copied or submitted by another student.

Misconduct during a test – copying from another student or having possession of unauthorized material.

Ask for Advice!

If you need help or have a question regarding whether you should cite, how to cite, or are being pressured to collude, discuss it with your teacher.

How to Avoid:

Plagarism – credit all the sources you use, even if you have paraphrased or summarized. Clearly distinguish between your work and the source being used (using quotation marks, indentation, or a similar method). Use the OTSD MLA Citation Guide for the proper citation method.

Collulsion and Misconduct – Safeguard your work from being copied or used by others. Support others to do their own work.

Student Responsibility

• I will be honest with myself and others.
• I will do my own work on assignments and tests. 
• I will always write using my own words.
• I will ask questions if I am unclear about expectations for an assignment or project.
• I will do my best work and complete homework on time.
• I will be responsible by not allowing other students to use my work.

Teacher Responsibility

• Set high expectations for honesty and quality of work.
• Be clear with expectations for assignments including how much help from others is acceptable.
• Help students to understand plagiarism, cheating, and the value of academic integrity.
• Teach, model, and encourage time management and organizational skills.
• Encourage students to take pride in their work.

Parent Responsibility

• Help your child to understand assignments and expectations.
• Assist your child, when needed, in a manner that moves him/her toward independence.
• Ensure that all work submitted is original and proper credit is given at all times.
• Support and acknowledge your child’s effort to do his/her own work.

I have read and I understand my responsibilities for academic integrity. By signing this pledge, I promise to uphold the OTSD values of respect, responsibility, and integrity.

Student Name (Please Print): ____________________________________ 

Student Signature: _______________________________________ Date: ____________ 

Parent Signature: ________________________________________ Date: ____________