Handbook

A Preface To Students From The Faculty

Pembroke Hill’s motto is Freedom With Responsibility. This handbook contains policies that reflect this basic philosophical position. We, the faculty, intend to help you further your sense of responsibility for the well-being of the larger community. To that end, we encourage freedom, with reasonable limitations, and will enforce rules defining those limitations, those necessary to maintain relative freedom for all.

We use the term community here in a very particular way. We believe that the learning experience offered to you at Pembroke Hill School extends well beyond the bounds of the formal classroom and the scheduled academic day. Therefore, we must consider the greater good of the community wherever and whenever we are involved in activities that are formally, or informally, related to the community.

Students, faculty members, administrators and staff members must commit themselves to ensuring a healthy learning environment. We all realize that there are many pressures in such an environment, and we all must commit ourselves to maintaining a healthy atmosphere at all times. From you, the student, we expect respect, compassion, scholarship and integrity in and out of the classroom.

In this handbook we attempt to define your privileges and responsibilities so you will know what is expected of you as a member of the Pembroke Hill community.

 

In the School Information section you will find:

• Grade Reporting System
• Academic Probation
• Failures And Incompletes
• Homework
• Grading Scale
• Homework Policy For Absences
• School Operating Hours
• Leaving Campus
• Absences, Attendance and Tardies
• Scheduling And Elective Course Policy
• Schedule Changes
• Eligibility For Extracurricular Activities
• Student Transportation Policy
• Drop-Off And Dismissal Guidelines
• Guardianship
• Parents Out-Of-Town
• Middle Schoolers At Evening Activities
• Chromebook Program/Books
• Bookstore
• Additional Expenses

Grade Reporting

Report cards are available online at the end of each semester. In addition to the end of semester report cards, all students will receive a progress report at mid-semester. Written comments from the teacher are included on the mid-semester progress report to provide feedback on possible areas of improvement as well as commendations. At the end of the semester, written comments will be used as a summative report. The grading system in the middle school is A, B, C, D and F. Plus and minus grades may be used with A, B, C and D.

Interim reports are available online when students are working below their capabilities, when students’ overall class performances have dropped significantly or a grade is below C-. All new seventh and eighth grade students will receive an interim report on the first interim report date. 

Communication will be sent directly from faculty anytime there is a concern with student behavior or academic performance.

Academic Probation

A student is considered for academic probation if, at the end of the semester, the student:

• Has failed a course;
• Has a grade point average in the academic courses (English, math, science, history, foreign language) below C-; or
• There is a determination by the probation committee that academic concern warrants probation.

Students considered for probation are evaluated by a committee of administration and faculty, which can include a combination of teachers, administration, counselor or other faculty deemed appropriate. The committee examines all aspects of the student’s record, both curricular and co-curricular, before recommending that a student be placed on probation. The committee is chaired by the division head and the final decision regarding probation is the responsibility of the division head.

The parents of all students who are considered for academic probation will receive a letter from the division head informing them of the reasons that their student was considered and the decision on the probation. The letter will communicate the concerns of the faculty and make specific suggestions on how to improve. Contingent on improvement, a student on probation could be reassessed at the end of the probationary term and a determination will be made to extend the probation, end the probation, not issue future student contracts, permanent separation from the school or other actions determined by the administration.

Failures & Incomplete

Students who fail a course must retake the course, receive tutoring or make it up in summer school. In the case of summer school or tutoring, the student must retake a final exam and or complete a comparable task assigned by the administration to show completion of the course material. The student will receive a maximum grade of D- for the course.

A grade of incomplete will be allowed only in the case of extreme hardship (illness, death in the family). It is the student’s responsibility to talk with teachers and arrange to make up the incomplete work within a reasonable length of time.

Homework

Although there are many variables in establishing guidelines for the amount of time a sixth, seventh or eighth grade student should spend on schoolwork outside of class, our experience tells us that 1 to 2 1/2 hours per night is about average. This will increase with above average or accelerated course loads and when students are preparing for major exams.

Care should be taken that students not overextend themselves with outside activities to the point of encroaching on time needed to study. In addition, time for fun and relaxation is also needed. Students cannot continuously work under pressure. Parents should be concerned also when students regularly have no homework. If there is a concern, we suggest that you contact the school.

Parents and tutors should take care when providing guidance with homework assignments. The help should be limited to assistance, encouragement and support. Students should always do their own work.

Grading Scale

A+ 97-99	A 93-96
A- 90-92	B+ 87-89
B 83-86	B- 80-82
C+ 77-79	C 73-76
C- 70-72	D+ 67-69
D 63-66	D- 60-62
Failing Below 60

 

Homework Policy For Absences

If your child is absent from class, they should review Schoology first, the contact the teacher with any questions.

If a student is absent, they may have two days to make up a test. Students may have a day for every day absent to make up daily work. Due dates for long-term papers, reports and projects should be discussed with the teacher.

When students are absent for an extended period of time and have a significant amount of work and tests to make up, they should consult with their teacher and adviser, and schedule the make-up work.

School Operating Hours

In an effort to ensure the supervision and safety of all students, please be mindful of the school hours. Unless previously arranged, students are to arrive no earlier than 7:45 a.m. When students arrive prior to 8:15 a.m., they should report directly to the early room. On late start Thursdays, if students arrive before 9:45 a.m., they are to immediately report to the early room for attendance. There is no early room on whole school late start Thursdays. Check the school calendar for whole school late start days.

At 3:15 p.m., students who are on campus and not working with a coach or teacher will be asked to go to Extended Day study hall. Students who stay beyond 4 p.m., will be charged the daily drop-in rate ($18) if they are not signed up for the yearly Extended Day contract.

Leaving Campus

Once students arrive on campus, they are not permitted to leave unless they are checked out by a parent or guardian. A parent or guardian needs to communicate with the front office when a student is expected to leave during the school day (written request, email or phone call). The student should sign out in the office before leaving. Before and after the school day, students are not allowed to leave campus and return unless they do so with a parent or guardian.

Absences, Attendance and Tardies

Students are expected to attend school every day, except in cases of illness. When students are absent, they limit their abilities to do their best in both their classes and extracurricular activities. When at school, students must attend class unless they have permission to be absent from their teacher or an administrator. If a student is absent from school due to illness, a parent should call the office (816-936-1502) before 8:30 a.m. that day.

If students are absent for two or more days, they may need to confirm that they have all their assignments and know what work they have missed. Students should refer to Schoology first then contact their teachers with any additional questions. If additional assistance is needed, please contact the grade level team leader. 

• Sixth grade team leader - Maria Canning, mcanning@pembrokehill.org
• Seventh grade team leader - Bekah Ott, rott@pembrokehill.org
• Eighth grade team leader - Alli Jordan, ajordan@pembrokehill.org

Students are expected to arrive at school and class on time. If students show a pattern of tardiness, parents will be contacted and students may be subject to disciplinary action.

Students who accumulate three or more tardies (not including the first period) in a week will be notified. The following will apply.

• First offense will result in a warning.
• Second offense, the students will be assigned an after-school reflection to create a plan to get to class on time.
• Third or more offenses could result in additional after-school reflections or additional disciplinary action deemed necessary. 

Students who accumulate two or more unexcused tardies in a week to the first period (advisory or class), the following will occur.

• First offense, families and students will be contacted so the administration can learn more about what is causing the student to be late to first period. A plan will be discussed to prevent future tardies.
• Future offenses, the student will be assigned an after-school reflection.

Scheduling And Elective Course Policy

Students are required to take year-long courses in math, science, social studies, English, world language, and wellness education. In addition to these courses, students are provided with additional courses by grade level, which are listed below. 

Sixth Grade 

• Required - One semester of art
• Required - One semester of music (Band or General Music)

Seventh Grade 

• Required - One semester of art
• Required - One semester of drama
• Year-Long Encore Elective - students select between choral music, band, art, and physical activities. 

Eighth Grade 

• Students choose from a list of semester and year-long elective courses, which can include art, advanced drama, advanced vocal performance, strength and conditioning, and debate. The elective choices can vary from year to year. Placement in courses is not guaranteed. Depending on the demand and maximum number of students per course, some students may not get their first choice in electives. 
• Year-Long Encore Elective - Students select between choral music, band, art, and physical activities.

Schedule Changes

Our policy is not to accept requests for specific teachers when scheduling classes. If a parent would like to discuss any concerns with scheduling, assigned courses, or instructors, they should contact the middle school division head. 

Schedule request changes regarding elective courses:

• The request must come from the parent or guardian.
• Schedule changes for semester elective courses will not be granted after the first interim grading period (approximately four weeks into the semester) of the semester. 
• For year-long elective courses, a schedule change after the first interim grading period can be requested for the second semester. 
• Changes to elective courses will depend on availability and the maximum number of students allowed in a course. 
• The division head has the final say in any schedule change requests.

Eligibility For Extracurricular Activities

According to the Missouri State High School Activities Association ruling on student eligibility, the below requirements apply to all middle school students who participate in extracurricular activities. We follow this policy for all extracurricular activities, including sports, practices, rehearsals, games, sport competitions, academic competitions, performances, etc.

• Students must be enrolled in a normal course load for their grade level.
• A "grading period" is a period no less than six weeks and no greater than nine weeks where progress is determined and reported to students/parents. A student must have been promoted to a higher grade at the close of the previous year. However, any such student who failed more than one scheduled subject shall be ineligible for the following grading period regardless of promotion to the higher grade. Contact the Athletic Department for more details.
• Students must attend all of their classes on the day of the scheduled activity unless an excused absence has been approved by the athletic director or division head prior to that day. An illness/injury will NOT meet the excused absence requirement that allows participation in extracurricular activities or contests. Keeping a student home for extra rest in the morning will NOT meet the excused absence requirement. Medical appointments, with a confirmation note from the doctor's office, are excused and students may participate in their activity. These activities include practices, rehearsals, games, sport competitions, academic competitions and performances.

In order to receive an exemption for a tardy or early dismissal, the athletic director or division head must be contacted prior to 8:30 a.m. on the day of the activity. The athletic director and division head will review each request and will consult with the appropriate coach and/or activity sponsor. Exemptions will only be granted after careful review and only in extraordinary cases. 

Student Transportation Policy

The school has adopted a student transportation policy that dictates how students will be transported to and from school-sponsored events. (This policy only applies to participants, not spectators, and to situations in which students leave from one of our school campuses.) All parents have received transportation permission information during the contract signing. This information must be updated in the Parent Portal in order for students to be transported to an event.

Policy Highlights

• Parents may transport their own children to activities.
• PHS parents may transport students who are not their own if the parents of the students being transported provide the school written permission.
• PHS faculty may drive students if the parents of the students being transported provide the school with written permission. 

Drop Off And Dismissal Guidelines

For the safety of the children and to facilitate the best traffic flow, please follow these guidelines:

• Students may not be dropped off or picked up in the center lane.
• Please do not “cut” in line.
• Please do not leave your cars to visit with people in other vehicles. This causes traffic jams.
• Students should only exit cars “curbside.” This is for student safety and smoother traffic flow.
• Drivers should watch and yield to pedestrians.
• Drivers should be attentive to cars moving forward. When the car in front moves up, you move up.
• Drivers should pull up to the sign or the vehicle in front to drop off students.
• Students should be prepared to exit the car quickly at the drop-off point. Backpacks and other books should be organized.
• Give last minute instructions earlier so that long goodbyes do not interrupt the flow of traffic.
• Drivers should drive slowly and cautiously.

Guardianship

While students are enrolled in the school, they must live with a parent or legal guardian. If, for some reason, students must live outside the home, the school should be consulted and a mutual agreement reached. We are concerned with the welfare of our students at all times.

Parents Out-Of-Town

If you are planning to be out of town and your child is going to be staying with a sitter, relative or friend, please notify the school. We need this information in case of emergencies.

Middle Schoolers At Evening Activities

If you drop your child off at an all-school activity such as and athletic contest, there will be administrators or faculty present. However, there will be no specific supervision for your child as there is during a school day. It is especially important that students remain at the site of the activity and not wander elsewhere on campus where there is no supervision.

Chromebook Program/Books

With the Chromebook Program, your Bookstore account will be charged for insurance and apps ($125). Ebooks vary depending on the classes your student is taking and will also be charged to the Bookstore account. Some classes have a hardcopy workbook or a reading book that the student will need to purchase, as well. 

Bookstore

Students may charge books, school supplies, clothing and athletic gear in the Bookstore.  When you pay tuition, a deposit for Bookstore charges is included. If your child has spent less than the deposit, you will receive a credit. When a student exceeds the deposit, a bill will be mailed by the business office. You should establish a clear understanding with your child about this privilege. Parents may call the Bookstore at 816-936-1426 or email the Bookstore manager, Joanna Kubicki, at jkubicki@pembrokehill.org, to check on their account or request a detailed printout.

Additional Expenses

Parents of children at PHS, like parents of children at all schools, will encounter expenses in addition to enrollment expenses (tuition, Bookstore deposit for books and supplies, lunch, Parents Association dues and class dues) as their children progress through school. The school has worked to minimize these extra costs while creating a tuition structure that is as inclusive of these costs as possible.

Some additional expenses are required of students if they choose to participate in an activity such as athletics, co-curriculars or a specific course. Other expenses are for items that are voluntary with the degree of student involvement and family decision. Parents are always encouraged to contact the school if they have a concern about an expense.

In the School And Classroom Events section, you will find:

• Back-To-School Night
• Conferences
• Fall Play
• Fall And Winter Festival
• Winter Concerts
• Showcase
• Spring Instrumental Music Concert
• Spring Fling

Back-To-School Night

The purpose of Back-To-School Night is to provide an opportunity for our parents/guardians to meet teachers and discover what our students will learn during the year. This event occurs during the first few weeks of school and is a parent-only event.

Conferences

The middle school hosts parent conferences each fall to provide parents with an update on student work. The focus will not be on your student’s grades; rather, the intention of the conference is to set goals and provide feedback for student growth and improvement.  

Fall Play

All students in grades 6-8 have the opportunity to audition for the middle school play. Rehearsals start in October, and the final performances are in November. This is a great opportunity for students to get involved in a collaborative experience.

Fall And Winter Festival

In partnership with the middle school Parent Council, we host an annual fall and winter festival with themed activities and food. These events are held on a selected date during our Tuesday community time each Fall and Winter.

Winter Concerts

The instrumental and choral music classes perform winter concerts in December. These concerts are held separately from each other.

Showcase

Each spring, the seventh and eighth grade choral music class has a performance. Students sing a variety of songs from different genres and engage in various dances with solos and group ensembles.

Spring Instrumental Music Concert

The instrumental music class hosts a spring concert during the first weeks of May.

Spring Fling

On a selected evening in the spring, the middle school Parent Council hosts a middle school get-together. The event varies each year, but typically has games, food and a DJ for students to enjoy time with friends.

In the Communication section, you will find:

• Communication Philosophy
• Email
• Conferences
• Social Media
• Telephone Calls And Messages
• Website And Parent Portal

Communication Philosophy

We are dedicated to open and honest communication with our families and students. It is important for us to hear from parents regularly. If parents have questions or concerns about our program,  encourage them to contact their child’s teacher or the division head. 

The school encourages parents to start with their child's teacher. If they do not feel the question or concern has been resolved, then they and the teacher should bring the issue to the division head. If they still cannot resolve the problem, they will discuss it with the head of school. Please understand that the school honors this organizational flow, and parents will be sent to the appropriate person.

Email

The middle school leadership team and the school communications department sends regular communications to families regarding general happenings within the school and division. You can expect communication from the communications department and the division head every other week on alternating weeks.

Conferences

Conferences will be held each fall with the student, family and advisor. Any other time that you need to confer with a teacher, you should contact the teacher, advisor or division head. They will assist you in scheduling the conference. In addition to problems with academics, you may be concerned about your child’s involvement in sports or other activities. The student’s advisor can schedule a conference with a coach or activity sponsor, as well.

Social Media

Pembroke Hill School communicates about school activities, classes and programs through several popular social media outlets.

Facebook
Twitter
YouTube 
Instagram

Telephone Calls/Messages

All staff members have classroom phones and voicemail. Parents may contact the teacher by their direct line, through the administrative assistant or the main school number. If they are unavailable to speak, please leave a message and they will return the call as soon as possible. Teachers are generally not able to answer phones during the school day due to teaching responsibilities. If your call is urgent in nature, please call the middle school front office at 816-936-1502.

Website And Parent Portal

Our website and Parent Portal are the main information outlets for the school. You will find school events, athletic events and general information about the school on the website. In the Parent Portal, accessed through the website, parents will find class information, the parent and student directory, school forms and more.

In the Security, Safety and Discipline section you will find:

• Upper And Middle School Code Of Conduct
• Philosophy Of Student Discipline
• Harassment And Discrimination
• Bullying Policy
• Weapons Policy
• Academic Dishonesty
• Smoking And Use Of Tobacco/Nicotine
• Alcohol And Illegal Drugs
• Phones And Electronic Devices
• Backpacks And Lockers
• Solicitation
• Deliveries
• Technology
• Dress
• Internet And Acceptable Use Statement
• Safety Alarms And Procedures
• Crisis Plan

Upper And Middle School Code Of Conduct

As members of the Pembroke Hill School community, we desire to promote an environment in which all individuals can realize their greatest potential. To achieve this goal, we expect students, faculty, parents, administrators and staff members to recognize and agree to uphold the essential values of respect, compassion, scholarship and integrity. We should always act in accordance with these guiding values. Therefore, we expect and require students to:

• Conduct themselves at all times in ways that will honor the school;
• Be honest in their behavior and in their school work;
• Abide by all school rules and abstain from the possession, use, or being under the influence or in possession of alcohol or other illegal chemical substances  on campus or at school-related functions;
• Respect the property of others, including the school's property; and
• Treat other members of the school community with civility and respect, and avoid, at all times, actions taht are hurtful to others.

Never permissible are misuse of technology, hazing, discrimination, harassment, cheating, plagiarism, stealing, destruction/defacing of property, possession of a dangerous weapon, threats of violence, violence, possession, use or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol or any behavior not in accordance with the school’s mission or core values.

A student's actions outside school that exhibit a propensity of danger or harm to the members of the school community, the community at large, school property or educational activities and/or which result in serious damage to the reputation of the school area. breach of contract between the family and the school. In such instances, the division head and the head of school will determine whether to take action that could results in disciplinary consequences, including, but not limited to, suspension or expulsion.

Students are expected to follow these guidelines and to engage in behavior that is consistent with the school's motto, Freedom With Responsibility. Students should also recognize that there are other rules necessary for the effective functioning of this community. The must understand and accept the rules and observe them.

Philosophy Of Student Discipline

Pembroke Hill’s discipline philosophy for students is a developmental process. As an educational institution, we view discipline as a teaching and learning opportunity with a focus on restoring any harm caused. As our students progress from early years through senior year, we model our core values and provide intentional instruction regarding the behavioral expectations of our community. Our students' ability to demonstrate the expectations independently grows over time. In general, we engage students in conversation, apply natural and/or logical consequences, and encourage both reflection and restoration. 

When a student’s behavior causes harm (physical, mental or emotional) and/or significantly disrupts the learning environment, we are compelled to consider the safety of our community and take appropriate action. While we value families as partners in their child’s education, the school plays the primary decision-making role in all disciplinary matters. In recommending or determining disciplinary action, the administration may consider the student’s present demeanor and past disciplinary record, the nature of the infraction, the severity of any damage, injury or harm resulting therefrom, while taking into account the best interest of the school. If deemed appropriate, the administration may choose to impose one or more of the following actions that are applied with a restorative lens:

• Conversations
• Reflection 
• Restorative acts (e.g., apology, service to others, etc.)
• Loss of privileges
• A probationary period
• Required additional services outside of the school (e.g., counseling or evaluation)
• Contract hold or non-renewal of contract
• Other action determined appropriate by the school
• Temporary removal from the classroom or the school community
• Permanent separation from the school community

Disciplinary actions are taken in private because it is the school’s longstanding practice to maintain confidentiality. Confidentiality balances our commitment to helping individuals learn from their mistakes, because we are educators above all else, and promoting a culture of open and timely discussion of important and challenging topics. 

Harassment And Discrimination

The Pembroke Hill School does not discriminate in its practices or policies on the basis of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, gender, sexual orientation or age. Moreover, Pembroke Hill does not discriminate against otherwise qualified students in any of the school’s programs or activities on the basis of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, sex or sexual orientation of the student consistent with the school’s goal of maintaining a diverse student body.

We expect all members of the Pembroke Hill School community to conduct themselves in a manner that is respectful to all individuals. Therefore, harassment or hazing of any type will not be tolerated.

Harassment is defined as:
Any unwelcome, overt or covert gesture, written, verbal or physical act, or any electronic communication that is reasonably perceived as being motivated by characteristics such as race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, or mental, physical or sensory disability, or by another distinguishing characteristic, that takes place on the property of Pembroke Hill School or at any function sponsored by PHS and that negatively affects an individual of one or more of the aforementioned groups.

Specifically, these behaviors may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Repeated, unwanted/unsolicited contact that includes face-to-face contact, telephone calls, voice messages, text messages, electronic video and/or photography, electronic mail, instant messages, written letters or unwanted gifts;
• Verbal or written abuse, threats, harassment, coercion, or any other conduct that places another individual in reasonable fear of their safety through words or actions, directed at that person, or substantially interferes with the educational or personal environment of the individual; or
• Persistent offensive, threatening communication through the internet via email, chat rooms and other electronic devices.

In order to raise general awareness, members of the school community must be educated on the topic of harassment on a continuous basis. Methods of an educational component may include speakers, corporate panels, videos and assemblies.

Any person who subjects a member of the school community to harassment will face consequences as outlined in the Philosophy Of Student Discipline. Disciplinary action will increase in severity in cases of repeat offenses or depending on the severity of the case. Any person with knowledge or information of harassment involving any member of the school community should report the incident to the person with whom they feel the most comfortable (adviser, teacher, class sponsor, school counselor, head of school, middle school head, middle school assistant head or dean of students). 

Bullying Policy

The Pembroke Hill middle school seeks to provide and maintain a community marked by compassion and respect. The bullying policy set forth is designed to fairly and effectively address bullying and retaliation.

This plan is intended (1) to reduce bullying among our students; (2) to encourage students and their parents to come forward promptly whenever a student is subject to conduct that is prohibited by this or any other school policy; (3) to implement appropriate discipline and other corrective measures when they are found to be warranted, and (4) to create an inclusive environment for all students.

General Policy Against Bullying And Retaliation

Bullying in any shape or form (verbal, physical, electronic, etc.) at Pembroke Hill is prohibited on any school grounds and at school-sponsored events, activities, functions and programs. This prohibition also extends beyond the grounds between Pembroke Hill students, particularly if the behavior off-campus disrupts the daily educational process within the school community.

What Constitutes Bullying

Bullying is broadly defined as “the repeated use by one or more students of a written, verbal or electronic expression, or a physical act or gesture, or any combination thereof, directed at a target, that:

• Causes physical or emotional harm to the targeted student or damage to the targeted student’s property;

• Places the targeted student in reasonable fear of harm to themselves, or of damage to their property;

• Creates a distracting, antagonistic environment at school for the targeted student;

• Infringes on the rights of the targeted student at school; and

• Materially and substantially disrupts the educational process or the orderly operation of the school.

Reporting An Act Of Bullying Or Retaliation

When a complaint of bullying or retaliation is brought to the school’s attention, an assessment is made as to whether any initial steps need to be taken to protect the well-being of students and to prevent disruption of their learning environment while the investigation is being conducted.

Any student who is the target, has witnessed an incident or otherwise has relevant information about bullying or retaliation is strongly encouraged to report the matter. Students who knowingly make false reports of bullying or retaliation will be subject to disciplinary action.

When a bullying incident is reported, promises of confidentiality cannot be guaranteed, as it is far more difficult to determine the facts of what occurred if complaints are made anonymously.

The school releases information concerning complaints of bullying and retaliation and the disciplinary action taken only on a legitimate, need-to-know basis. Reports can be made to any faculty or staff, but it is encouraged for reports to be made directly to the administration.

After a report has been made, the administration will inform appropriate parties of the process of investigating, finding a resolution and communicating.

Weapons Policy

No student or visitor to campus or school-sponsored functions regardless of where held may possess, transport, display, offer for sale, barter, use, threaten to use or exchange any gun, bomb, knife or other dangerous weapon, or any object that might have a reasonable “look-alike” resemblance to a dangerous weapon. A dangerous weapon may be defined as any object that may cause a serious injury or fatal wound. Uniformed members of law enforcement may carry a visible weapon.

Violations of this policy will result in discipline consequences as listed in the Philosophy of Student Discipline and could include notification of the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department and expulsion.

Academic Dishonesty

One should not copy or allow homework, tests, quizzes, papers or any academic work to be copied. Working together on problems or making editorial suggestions on a paper is a good learning process, but loaning or making use of another’s finished work is dishonest.

Plagiarism is always dishonest. If one uses the exact wording or paraphrased wording, or even the ideas of another writer without giving proper credit in a footnote or other form of documentation, that person is guilty of plagiarism.

Possession or use of unauthorized notes or copying answers from another on an exam or making unauthorized material available to others is dishonest.

In a case of academic dishonesty, a grade of F can be assigned to the work and violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action. If students are found guilty of academic dishonesty a second time, they will be considered for expulsion.

Smoking And Use Of Tobacco/Nicotine

Students may not smoke, use or be in possession of any tobacco product, electronic cigarette or “vaping” paraphernalia on school property, at school-sponsored activities, programs or events, or on school-sponsored transportation. If a faculty member or administrator suspects a student is using nicotine in any manner, the student’s locker and personal belongings may be searched, if warranted. If a student is found violating the policy, the student's parents will be contacted immediately. After examining all of the details regarding the infraction, the middle school administration will determine the consequences as outlined in the Philosophy Of Student Discipline.  

Alcohol And Illegal Drugs

The consumption of alcohol by anyone under the age of 21, in the state of Missouri, is prohibited by law. State and federal laws strictly prohibit the use of illegal drugs or controlled substances. Students may not drink, be in possession of or be under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs or controlled substances (for which the student does not have a prescription) at school, on school property or at school-related functions. A student will be considered “under the influence” if it is detectable in any way. The school may request the student to voluntarily submit to testing for drug or alcohol usage, with prior parental permission. All violations are considered serious. Parents will be notified immediately when a suspected violation has occurred. All violations of the drug/alcohol policy will be handled through the division head and a determination of consequences will be made as outlined in the Philosophy Of Student Discipline.

Phones And Electronic Devices

Mobile phones, smart phones, smart watches or any other electronic devices not issued by the school are prohibited in the classrooms, locker rooms, restrooms and in the dining hall. Phones may only be used in the hallways during break and between classes. Electronics including, but not limited to, phones, cameras and tablets (including school-issued devices) are not permitted at lunch, in the restrooms or in any part of the athletic facilities. Students should leave their phones and personal electronics in their middle school lockers during classes, P.E., assembly, while using the restroom and at lunch. Exceptions to our phone and electronic policy will be considered by the administration based on medical or other circumstances that require the use of electronics during the day. A meeting with the family and student will be a required part of the exception.

If a student is in possession of a phone or other electronic device not issued by the school while in a classroom, PE, assembly, restroom or the dining hall, the device will be confiscated for the remainder of the day and an after-school reflection will be issued. For repeat offenders, more serious consequences will be issued, and restrictions may be placed on the student’s electronic access at school. 

School computers, iPads, Chromebooks and other electronic devices should be used for school-related activities only. These devices are to assist in the educational process and are not for personal browsing, games or personal communication. Any misuse of school-issued electronics will result in a detention; further disciplinary action might be taken for repeat offenders. 

Under no circumstances may a student, faculty member or staff person be video recorded, audio recorded or photographed without the permission of the individual. Students are only allowed to record and/or photograph under the direction of a teacher as it relates to an assignment. Furthermore, recordings and photographs taken for class are the property of the school and should only be used for school-related projects. Any misuse of video, audio or pictures can result in disciplinary action. 

Backpacks And Lockers

Students are not permitted to carry backpacks in Boocock Middle School unless they are leaving the building or they have just entered the building and are on their way to their lockers. Backpacks are not allowed to be carried into classrooms. Exceptions to our backpack policy will be considered by the administration based on medical or other circumstances that require the use of a backpack during the day.

Students are provided with a locker to store their personal belongings. All materials must be stored in the locker and should not be left unattended anywhere on campus. Materials left unattended will be placed in the office, and the student will be assigned an after-school reflection to create a plan to organize their materials and use of locker. 

Lockers should be locked anytime not in use. Lockers are the property of the school and students should take proper care of their assigned locker. The school reserves the right to search lockers at any time for any reason. There should be no assumption that items stored in a school-issued locker are confidential. The safety of any valuables stored in a locker can not be guaranteed. Students/families assume the risk of any valuables brought to school, and the school will not be held responsible for missing or lost materials.  

Solicitation

In order to maintain a productive educational environment, students are not allowed to sell items on campus for personal or philanthropic measures. If students are promoting a community service project, they need permission from the division head to fundraise or promote a charitable organization.

Deliveries 

Students are not allowed to have food or other materials delivered to campus by third-party vendors such as Uber Eats, Postmates, etc.

Technology

Technology devices and accounts issued to students by the school should be used for educational purposes only. Misuse of technology will result in disciplinary action. For minor infractions, students will receive a warning, then each additional infraction will result in the student being assigned an after-school reflection. If serious or repeated minor infractions occur, the administration will determine the appropriate consequences. The IT Department maintains an Acceptable Use Policy which also applies to all students.

Dress

The Pembroke Hill middle school believes that standards of neatness and appropriateness in clothing encourage an atmosphere that is conducive to learning, working and discipline. Student dress should reflect the school’s core values of respect, compassion, scholarship and integrity.

The aim of the dress code is to create an inclusive, accepting and reasonably informal atmosphere where students feel comfortable to express individuality.

Furthermore, it is felt that pride in one’s school and in one’s self is, in part, influenced by appearance. The student dress code supports our goal of inspiring students to learn while leaving primary decisions around student clothing and style to students and their parent(s)/guardian(s), who are responsible for ensuring a student’s clothing is a positive representation of their family and school.

At school and any school-sponsored event, student clothing must be worn in a way that private body areas are fully covered at all times with opaque fabric. Students are to be neat, clean and well-groomed. Students must wear:

• A shirt with opaque fabric in the front, back and on the sides under the arms which covers private body parts and appropriately covers undergarments; 
• Pants/jeans or the equivalent (a skirt, leggings, a dress or shorts) that cover all private parts and appropriately covers undergarments; and
• Shoes.

The following clothing items may not be worn at a school or any school-sponsored event:

• Any article or apparel that displays obscene words, pictures or designs;
• Any article that conveys a sexually suggestive remark, a pro-alcohol message or a tobacco and/or drug message;
• Any item of clothing that exposes underwear;
• Hats while inside school buildings and in classrooms (except for medical or religious reasons). This includes stocking hats, bandanas and other head coverings (hairbands may be worn);
• Any item that obscures the face, ears or head (except for medical or religious reasons); and
• Any item that impedes the learning process.

Physical education students are required to wear a uniform for class. This uniform is available in the PHS Bookstore. On game days, students will dress up in accordance with the coach's recommendation.

Students will be informed of a dress code violation via email or in person. Students in violation will be provided three options to meet dress code standards:

1. A student will be asked to put on their own alternative clothing, if readily available at school, for the remainder of the day.
2. A student will be provided with temporary school clothing for the remainder of the day.
3. If necessary, a student's parents may be called to bring alternative clothing for the student to wear for the remainder of the day.

Penalties:

• First Violation: Warning
• Second-Fourth Violations: After school reflection or restoration determined by administration. Parents will also be notified.
• Fifth or more: To be determined by administration

Internet And Acceptable Use Statement

Pembroke Hill’s intent is to make Internet access available to further its educational goals and objectives. PHS does not have control of the information on the Internet. Certain sites have been blocked, but we realize it is impossible to limit access to all potentially objectionable material. Pembroke Hill believes that the benefits to educators and students having access to the Internet far exceed any disadvantages of inappropriate use. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the student to use the Internet in an acceptable and ethical manner. The use of the Internet at school is a privilege, not a right, and inappropriate use will result in disciplinary action. Any unauthorized use that includes, but is not limited to, hacking of the PHS computer network, the school's servers, computers or others' files will be viewed as a major violation of privacy and will result in disciplinary action.

Safety Alarms And Procedures

Tornado Warning Procedure

When the tornado alarm is sounded, all students should proceed to the designated shelter areas with a teacher. Students will sit on the floor and remain quiet during this period. Specific procedures are posted in each classroom. There will be periodic drills.

Fire Alarm Procedure

The fire alarm is a continuous long blast. Students should leave quickly and quietly out the nearest exit and proceed safely to designated safe zones with their teachers. Students will gather with their designated class area so attendance may be taken. Directions are posted in classrooms.

Lockdown Procedure

The lockdown notice is an audible announcement sounded through speakers on campus. Students should immediately seek shelter in the closest building and in the safest location available behind a locked door and quietly remain out of sight until the all clear is sounded.

Crisis Plan

The school has a comprehensive crisis plan that will be put into effect in the case of a crisis. If it is necessary to evacuate the campus, the school will follow this agreed upon plan. Please know that the information provided by the parents indicating the primary contact for their student is vital. Please check the Parent Portal to ensure that your contact information is current.

In the Health section, you will find: 

• School Nurse
• Medical Documentation And Forms
• Physical Exams
• Supplemental Student Insurance
• Prescription Medication
• Over-The-Counter Medications
• Allergies And Emergency Medication
• Asthma
• Illness
• COVID-19 Information
• Child Abuse And Neglect Policy

School Nurse

The school nurse will be available from 7:45 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. on the Ward Parkway Campus. The nurse provides medical services to students including health appraisals, health education and first aid. The nurse will always be available via phone at 816-936-1531 and email at nurse@pembrokehill.org. The fax number is 916-936-1378. Our staff has CPR, asthma, EpiPen, blood-borne pathogen and first aid training.

Medical Documentation And Forms

Immunization Records: The Missouri Department of Health requires that we have a copy of immunization records on or before the first day of school. The school does not provide a specific form for this. Simply ask your physician's office to provide you with a record of your child's immunizations and send that record to the school. Thank you for your help in getting these to the school on or before the first day.

Emergency/Transportation/Medical Information: Parents provide this information each year in the Household Profile Update section in the Parent Portal, located in the top left corner under My Portal. The Household Profile Update is where parents can update their child's health, emergency contacts and transportation information.

Physical Exams

Physical/medical examinations are required at the following intervals:

• Seventh Grade
• 10th Grade
• High school student-athletes
  • Physical exams are dated after July 1 of the year of participation and are valid for two years.
  • Annual MSHSAA pre-participation physical evaluation form

All forms must be returned to the nurse’s office by Aug. 1. In the Parent Magnus Health Portal, all documents are posted on the school’s website, www.pembrokehill.org. Once completed, please keep a record at home and upload a copy to Magnus Health.

Supplemental Student Insurance

The school supplies a supplemental student accident insurance policy to assist families with out-of-pocket expenses resulting from an injury at school or official school events. The policy is structured to cover expenses after existing insurance policies have responded.

When an injury occurs that is likely to result in the family seeking medical treatment (i.e., emergency room or doctor’s visit), a claim form will be sent to the parents with a copy of the student accident report. Claims need to be filed directly with the policy administrator within 90 days of the injury.

Please contact the division head’s office if you did not receive a claim form for an injury that required professional medical treatment. If you have questions about the policy itself, please contact the director of finance.

Prescription Medication

Medication administration to students during school hours shall be restricted to necessary medication that cannot be given on an alternative schedule. Parents should always administer the first dose of new medicine. Please notify the nurse of a new medication or dosage changes.

For prescription medicine to be administered at school, it must be in a pharmacy container with a label affixed at the pharmacy with the following information:

• Name of student;
• Name of medication;
• Name of physician;
• Date of purchase; and
• Dosage, route, and schedule of administration.

In some cases, written orders from the student's physician may be necessary. These orders should be shared with the school nurse as soon as possible.

When the above conditions are met, medication administration to a student will be limited to the school nurse or other designated person. The medication must be brought to the nurse’s office by a parent or guardian. A parent or adult parent designee must bring prescription refills to the nurse’s office.

Over-The-Counter Medications

If you would like your children to receive over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen or Benadryl please update the Over-the-Counter Medications section under Vital Health Records in Magnus Health. No telephone calls will be made or accepted for authorization. These medications are given according to the written instructions on the label, i.e. the child’s age and weight. Medication requests that exceed the recommended dose or guideline will require written permission from your pediatrician.

Parent/guardian may be notified if over-the-counter medicine is administered or if sought by a student but not administered due to nursing judgment. Certain over-the-counter medications can mask pain or other symptoms, or delay in diagnosis/treatment of an underlying health problem. The overuse of these medications may also lead to liver or kidney damage, or gastrointestinal complications.

Over-the-counter medications brought from home and administered at school must be in an original, unopened container. A written order must be signed by a licensed care provider that includes the same information as a prescribed medication. Nurses are prohibited by law and district policy from administering homeopathic remedies, nutritional supplements and essential oils.

Parents/guardians of the student assume responsibility for informing school personnel of any change to the student’s health or medication regimen.

Allergies And Emergency Medication

If your child has severe food or other allergies, the school must be made aware by the first day of school. Please submit the form below from the doctor so the school can adequately care for your student.

If your child’s allergy requires an EpiPen, please send your child to school with an EpiPen in their personal backpack. They will need to carry this on them at all times. The EpiPen must be labeled with the original container and labeled from the pharmacy.

FARE Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Emergency Care Plan

Asthma

If your child has asthma, complete an Asthma Action Plan and submit this to the school nurse. For your child to use an inhaler daily or as needed, we must have a Student Asthma Action Form signed by your child’s physician and you. Dosage change requires a written note signed by the doctor.

Illness

Please do not send your child to school ill. If your child was not well the night before or during the night, they should stay home. It is essential to have prior arrangements for days your child is ill or must be picked up early from school because of illness. Your child may unnecessarily expose other children to a communicable disease by coming to school. Children will be sent home if they exhibit any of the following symptoms:

• A fever of 100 degrees or higher;
• Vomiting more than once or combined with another symptom;
• Diarrhea;
• Unknown rash or bumps;
• Mattered, red or tearing eyes;
• Sore throat or trouble swallowing;
• Headache and stiff neck;
• Severe cough to the point of choking;
• Unusual or tea-colored urine;
• Infected or crusty patch of skin;
• Severe itching in case of head or body lice; or
• Grey or white stools.

When contacted by the school nurse that your child is sick, please make arrangements to pick up your child within 45 minutes. This helps the school decrease the spread of germs.

Children may return when free of the above symptoms for 24 hours. These guidelines are for the well-being and protection of your child and their classmates.

COVID-19 Information

The office of infection control will continue to provide COVID-19 mitigations in accordance with CDC guidelines as they apply to the learning environment.

Common Sense Parenting And Health Promotion

• Keep children home until they are fever-free without medications for 24 hours. This reduces sharing germs, giving your child extra time to rest and fight off the illness.
• Keep children home if they have had diarrhea or are vomiting. Usually, they feel physically drained if they have had these symptoms. They may want to return to school when system-free after 24 hours. Please consider keeping them home to regain their strength.

Keeping students home for an extra day is a healthy investment for you and them.

Child Abuse And Neglect Policy

The safety of our children is of utmost importance to us. All PHS faculty and staff members are mandated reporters of any suspected abuse and must comply with the Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect laws. PHS will report any physical, sexual or verbal abuse and/or neglect of a child to the Missouri Division Of Family Services Child Abuse Hotline.

 

In the Student Services section, you will find:

• Middle School Advisory Program
• The Middle School Counselor
• The Learning Specialist

Middle School Advisory Program

All middle school students are assigned to advisers and to a 10-to-12 student advisory group made up of sixth, seventh and eighth grade students. Students meet three days a week with advisers and advisory groups.

The primary purpose of the advisory groups is to provide mutual support, encouragement and assistance in making progress in all areas of school life. This group is a source of long-term, caring peer relationships with a commitment to each other’s success. We expect students to learn and practice important social and collaborative skills. We hope that advisory activities will also provide a degree of monitoring, accountability and constructive peer pressure.

There will be regular, specific tasks assigned to all advisees such as taking care of routine school business. In addition, there will be discussion and collaborative activities designed to achieve developmental and affective objectives. The role of the adviser and the counselor is to facilitate the activities and provide assistance and support.

The Middle School Counselor

The middle school counselor is a licensed professional counselor and is available to assist advisers, teachers, parents and students. The counselor is a source to help with problems that prevent students from succeeding. This support is provided through classroom lessons, individual short-term counseling, small group counseling, consulting with faculty and parents, and being active in school-wide initiatives. While the counselor does not provide long-term counseling services to students, recommendations for outside resources can be made.

Middle school students may access the counselor in several ways. They can stop in for a short visit; they can make an appointment for a more extensive visit; or they can be referred by a teacher, an adviser or a parent.

During a student’s first visit to the counselor, they are orally advised of the rule of confidentiality. Information divulged to the counselor is confidential except in cases where the student is suicidal, harming themselves (i.e., eating disorders), being abused or has plans to harm someone else.

Parents can consult with the counselor regarding parenting issues and adolescent concerns. The counselor is able to provide referrals to additional sources, if needed.

The Learning Specialist

The learning specialist works with faculty, staff, administration, students and families to evaluate student records/testing. The learning specialist makes recommendations and write accommodation plans to assist teachers in providing students with an effective educational program. The learning specialist also provides training and support for all students and faculty.