BMS Handbook 2017-2018

HANDBOOK OF INFORMATION
FOR

STUDENTS AND PARENTS

2017 – 2018 SCHOOL YEAR
BYRON MIDDLE SCHOOL

850 N. Colfax
Byron, Illinois 61010
Phone: (815) 234-5491 - ext. 257
Fax: (815) 234-4225
Middle School Administration

Zack Ettelbrick, Principal, Ext. 282
Petrece Klein, Assistant Principal/A.D., Ext. 360
Mrs. Jeanne Ferencak, Administrative Assistant, Ext. 257
Mrs. Kristy Groharing, Activities Administrative Assistant, Ext. 278
Steve Walters, Transportation Director, Ext. 400
Dr. James Hammack, Superintendent, Ext. 220

Byron Middle School
Zack Ettelbrick, Principal
Petrece Klein, Assistant Principal/A.D.
850 N. Colfax St., Byron IL 61010

Phone: (815) 234-5491 Ext. 257; Fax: (815) 234-4225

Dear Parents and Students:

On behalf of the staff at Byron Middle School, I would like to welcome you to our building and wish you the
best of luck for the school year. On the very first day of school, and at several other times throughout the
school year, we talk to our students about our three main goals:

 Provide a place where you can come every day and feel safe
 Give EVERY student an opportunity to succeed
 Treat our students with respect, and expect the same in return

Everything we do at Byron Middle School is based on these three important goals. By name, our task as a
“middle school” is very important – we take our students from the self-contained, nurturing environment of the
elementary school and, in three short years, prepare them for the rigor, independence, and increased
responsibility of the high school. We are fortunate to have assembled an outstanding staff of educators and
support personnel who are all dedicated to making B.M.S. a great place to be. We understand the challenge we
face, and we have been very successful in making the middle school years enjoyable, memorable, and
rewarding for our students.

Please take the time to review the information contained in this handbook. In addition to our expectations for
behavior, you will find a wealth of information regarding curriculum, special programs, daily life, and
opportunities to get involved outside the classroom. The more familiar you are with the contents, the better
prepared you will be to walk through our doors with the confidence necessary to make your experience at
B.M.S. successful.

For parents, I encourage you to review page 11. Here you will find a lengthy list of the avenues of
communication available between the home and school. It is very important that we work together to ensure a
smooth trip through the middle school years. If you should ever have any questions or concerns, please do not
hesitate to give us a call.

For students, I ask that you be prepared to work hard, and I encourage you to get involved in as many outside
activities as you can. And, most importantly, please understand that our staff is here to help and support you in
every way – if there is ever a time when you feel stressed, threatened, or overwhelmed, please talk to an adult in
the building. We will do our best to help you work through the issue and get you back on the path to success.

I look forward to seeing you in the hallways this year.

Sincerely,

Zack Ettelbrick

Table of Contents

Absences .............................................................................. 27 Illness and Medication Procedures ......................................33
Activities Code .................................................................... 41 Instructional Materials ........................................................34
Activities, Behavior Expectations ........................................ 28 Items Not Permitted at School ..............................................35
Activities, General Information............................................ 40 Library ..................................................................................35
Admit Slips .......................................................................... 28 Lockers..................................................................................35
After School Program ........................................................ 28 Lost & Found ......................................................................36
Animals on School Property ................................................ 29 Lunch Program ....................................................................36
Athletic / Activity Practice ................................................. 29 Middle School Philosophy ....................................................5
Bicycles .............................................................................. 29 Mission Statement .................................................................5
Building Security ............................................................... 29 Nurse Visits...........................................................................36
Bullying / Harassment.......................................................... 15 Office Detention....................................................................31
Calendar ............................................................................. 29 Omni Star ..............................................................................6
Cameras .............................................................................. 29 Omni Team ...........................................................................6
Catch-Up Cafe .................................................................... 13 Organizations and Groups ...................................................40
Cell Phones ........................................................................ 29 PBIS ....................................................................................23
Change of Address ............................................................. 30 Plagiarism .............................................................................30
Cheating ............................................................................... 30 Portable Music Players..........................................................36
Closed Campus .................................................................... 30 Public Display of Affection ................................................36
Communication .................................................................... 11 Referrals ................................................................................23
Computers .......................................................................... 30 Report Cards .........................................................................36
Corporal Punishment .......................................................... 30 Response to Intervention .....................................................19
Curriculum ........................................................................... 5 Retention Policy....................................................................36
Cyberbullying....................................................................... 15 Rotation Classes ....................................................................7
Dangerous Conduct/Weapons/Objects................................. 30 Saturday Detention................................................................31
Detention ............................................................................ 31 School Hours .......................................................................37
Diabetes Management Plan .................................................. 34 Seventh Grade Team ..............................................................9
Discipline ........................................................................... 31 Sexual Harassment ..............................................................16
Dishonesty............................................................................ 31 Sixth Grade Team .................................................................8
Disrespect ........................................................................... 31 Skateboards & Roller blades ...............................................37
Dress Code ......................................................................... 31 Smoking ..............................................................................37
Drugs and/or Alcohol Use or Possession ........................... 32 Staff .......................................................................................4
Eighth Grade Team .............................................................. 10 Student Conflict Reporting Form ........................................18
Elective Classes...................................................................... 7 Student Conflict ..................................................................15
Electronic Cigarettes ............................................................ 37 Student Services ..................................................................31
Electronic Reading Devices ................................................. 32 Substitute Teachers .............................................................37
Emergency Closing of School ............................................ 32 Suspension, Out-of-School ...................................................37
Expulsion ............................................................................. 33 Tardiness ...............................................................................37
Fighting .............................................................................. 33 Telephones ............................................................................37
Food & Drink in Building .................................................... 33 Textbooks ...........................................................................38
Grade Reporting ................................................................... 33 Theft ......................................................................................38
Grading Scale ..................................................................... 12 Tobacco.................................................................................37
Grievance Procedure .......................................................... 33 Transportation .......................................................................38
Gum...................................................................................... 33 Trespassing ...........................................................................39
Homeroom ......................................................................... 33 Truancy ..............................................................................39
Homework Hotline ............................................................. 14 Vandalism .............................................................................39
Homework Policy ............................................................... 13 Water Bottles……………………………………………….39
Honor Roll............................................................................ 33 Website .................................................................................14

In an effort to streamline the handbooks created by the individual buildings, many topics previously included in this
handbook have been moved to a district-wide handbook. This handbook, containing topics that are consistent across the
district, can be found on the school district web site. Some of the topics included in the district- wide handbook are
computer use, grading & reporting to parents, residency policy, school fees, special education, student records, and
transportation. Additionally, Byron School District policies upon which this handbook is based are also available on the
school district website.

MIDDLE SCHOOL STAFF

ADMINISTRATION SUPPORT PERSONNEL
Mr. Ettebrick ..................................................Principal TBD ............................................................Computer Aide
Mrs. Klein...................................Asst. Principal / A.D. Mrs. Clay....................................................Classroom Aide
Mrs. Ferencak ................................................Secretary Mrs. Ashworth…………………………… Classroom Aide
Mrs. Groharing ..............................................Secretary Ms. Gayden ................................................Classroom Aide
Mrs. Robertson...........................................Classroom Aide
6th GRADE TEAM Ms. Scudder ...............................................Classroom Aide
Mr. Baker..........................................................Writing Mrs. Scullion..............................................Classroom Aide
Mr. Burris .............................................. Social Studies Mrs. Typer.......................................................Library Aide
Mrs. Crabel ........................................... Language Arts
Mrs. Morris.................................................... Resource STUDENT SERVICES
Mr. Nestler........................................................... Math Dr. Mutchler……………………….....6th Grade Counselor
Mrs. Smith ................................ Team Leader, Science Mrs. Wygant………………………7th/8th Grade Counselor
Mrs. Spence ............................. …..Physical Education Mrs. Bielskis ......................................... Speech Pathologist
Mrs. Smith.............................................................Librarian
7th GRADE TEAM Mrs. Yerly .................................................... Social Worker
Mr. Burris ..................................................Social Studies Mrs. Darnell .................................................... Psychologist
Mrs. Bukoski ............................................Language Arts TBD ........................................................................... Nurse
Mr. Kirk...............................................................Science
Mrs. Hedlund ......................................................Writing CUSTODIANS
Ms. LeBlanc ..................................................... Resource Mr. Wilmarth ............................................. Head Custodian
Mrs. Messer ..............................................Social Studies Mr. Bileto.............................................. Evening Custodian
Mrs. Reilly ..............................................................Math Ms. Fetherston ...................................... Evening Custodian
Mr. Stavnem ..........................................................Health
CAFETERIA
8th GRADE TEAM Mrs. Kruse......................................................... Head Cook
Mrs. Basler-Heather ............................................Writing Mrs. Scullion .....................................................Asst. Cook
Ms. DeVries.............................................................Math Mrs. Spanbauer .................................................Asst. Cook
Mrs. Fletcher .............................................Social Studies Mrs. Wheeler .....................................................Asst. Cook
Ms. Potter ........................................................... Science TBD ...............................................Lunchroom Supervisor
Ms. Powers ...............................................Language Arts Mrs. Sheppard ................................Lunchroom Supervisor
Mrs. Voiles ....................................................... Resource
Mr. Elsbury........................................Physical Education MAINTENANCE
Dr. James Hammack .......... Buildings & Grounds Director
OMNI TEAM (ALL GRADES) Mr. Bothe .......................................... District Maintenance
Mrs. Haas.......................................... Instrumental Music Mr. Halstead ...................................... District Maintenance
Mrs. Harn.....................................................Vocal Music
Mr. Head.......................................................... ED Room TRANSPORTATION DEPT.
Ms. Coffman....................................... Cross Categorical Mr. Walters ....................................Transportation Director
Mr. Konstans ...Technology to Enhance Communication TBD ......................................................................Assistant
Mrs. Bierman.............................................................. Art 234-5491, ext. 401
Mr. Maurizio .................................... Instrumental Music
Ms. Newcomer ..............................................Agriculture E-MAIL
Faculty contact forms are available on the Byron C.U.S.D.
#226 web site at www.byron226.org

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BYRON SCHOOL DISTRICT #226

Slogan: Inspiring Excellence For All
Mission: To develop community-minded 21st Century learners.
Vision: Education that challenges, engages, and inspires a learning community that demands excellence

School Board Members (may be contacted through the district website):

Ms. Carol Nauman, President Mr. Steve Bouton Mr. Phil Kessler

Mr. Ed Clift, Vice President Mr. Jeff Milburn Mr. D.J. Mumma

Mrs. Christine Lynde, Secretary

A STATEMENT OF MIDDLE SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY

The Byron Middle School education program is focused on the theme of student excellence. It is a program that recognizes that all
children can learn to their fullest potential. It supports the unique needs of the middle level student and those characteristics which are
directly related to that critical, developmental stage called adolescence. During this period of rapid physical, intellectual, emotional,
and social growth, school curriculum and programs will support students’ needs to develop a positive personal identity, encourage
respect for others, and also foster the formation of goals and a healthy value system. In this persistent quest for excellence, the Byron
Middle School education program strives to create a learning environment that develops responsibility, stability, promotes self-
confidence, and is sensitive to the needs of all students. To support these tenets, we believe the middle education program should
encompass the following goals:

1. To provide a curriculum and program recognizing the uniqueness of this age group and encouraging application of their acquired
skills and accomplishments.

2. To foster a caring, trusting and nurturing environment to help students become self-directed learners.
3. To develop within the student a sense of responsibility for his/her own education.
4. To offer a comprehensive, organized and consistent program for all students which meet the students’ needs.
5. To support and develop the student’s ability to appraise values and attitudes.
6. To encourage sensitivity to the adolescent’s increasing need for socialization, independence and providing the opportunity for

improved student self-esteem.
7. To support and encourage parental involvement and active participation in the educational process.
8. To develop positive and enriching relationships between adults and students.
9. To nurture the natural inquisitiveness and curiosity of each student in an atmosphere of help and encouragement.

THE CURRICULUM – 6th, 7th, & 8th GRADES

Core Academic Courses Rotation Courses Other Required Courses
Language Arts Art Health
Mathematics Agriculture Physical Education
Science Technology to Enhance
Social Studies Communication Elective Courses
Writing Band
Choir

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BYRON MIDDLE SCHOOL

OMNI TEAM

WELCOMES YOU

OMNI Team Teachers
Mrs. Haas ................................ Instrumental Music, Lessons
Mrs. Harn .......................................................... Vocal Music
Mr. Head ........................................................ ED Classroom
Ms. Coffman ............................................. Cross Categorical
Mr. Konstans.........Technology to Enhance Communication
Mrs. Bierman ................................................................... Art
Mr. Maurizio ........................... Instrumental Music, Lessons
Ms. Newcomer.................................................... Agriculture

OMNI TEAM teachers are your teachers for three years. We teach subjects that allow you to display a different
side of yourself – music, art, performance, technology, and information resources.

The mission of the Byron Middle School OMNI team is to provide educational opportunities for the development
of the whole child at all three grade levels.

All school policies, such as grades, behavior, catch up café, homework, absences, and make up work, are followed
in all Omni Team classes.

The OMNI TEAM offers…

LEARNING with programs that offer different styles and a consistent three year curriculum,
EXPLORATION of new ideas, skills, and interests,

OMNI TEAM members are very interested in you and your overall school experience. Please contact us at any
time during your three years at the Middle School if we can help in any way.

OMNI Star
An OMNI Star may be given to any Byron Middle School student or staff member for outstanding
accomplishment achieved outside of the Middle School general program during the school year. The OMNI
team votes on nominated students on an as-needed basis throughout the school year. Students, staff, or
community members may make nominations for an OMNI Star. Nomination forms are available in the main
office. Those recognized are presented with a certificate at an appropriate time during the school day.

Byron Middle School Rotation Classes
Rotation classes meet for approximately 9 weeks for 6th and 7th grades. 8th Grade rotation classes will be 12
weeks. The subjects offered will be the same for all 3 grade levels, but the content of the courses will change

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from grade to grade. The Rotation Course offerings for 6th and 7th grade students are Agriculture, Art, Heath and
Speaking, Listening, and Performing. The 8th Grade students will have Agriculture, Art and Speaking,
Listening, and Performing

Byron Middle School Elective Classes
Each year, students will choose to participate in one of the following course offerings*:

 Choir
The Byron Middle School Choir is a curricular activity for sixth, seventh, and eighth graders. Students
need not be experienced singers to participate in the choir. Each student will be taught vocal skills to
improve the present use of their voice. In addition, musical concepts are presented through careful
selection of quality choral literature.

 Band
The Byron Middle School Band is a curricular activity for sixth, seventh, and eighth graders. Each
student receives weekly small group instruction on his/her specific instrument. Daily large group
rehearsals will focus on ensemble performance as well as various musical styles and concepts.

Performance Opportunities
The performing groups will each have required concerts during the school year. Students in BMS Band and
Chorus may also audition for the IMEA District Band and Chorus Festival each fall. Second semester, all 7th
and 8th grade students will have the opportunity to prepare a solo or ensemble for the Rt. 72 Solo and Ensemble
Contest. All 6th grade band students will prepare and perform a solo for the Byron 6th Grade Solo Festival
each spring.

* Shared Students
7th and 8th grade students who would like to participate in both band and chorus will be allowed to be in both
ensembles. The teachers will arrange the schedule for the shared students.

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THE SIXTH GRADE TEAM
Welcomes you to

Byron Middle School

Mr. Baker .................................................................. Writing
Mr. Burris........................................................Social Studies
Mrs. Crabel ....................................................Language Arts
Mrs. Morris .............................................................Resource
Mr. Nestler .................................................................... Math
Mrs. Smith................................................................. Science
Mrs. Spence.............................................Physical Education

6TH GRADE TEACHING TEAM
PHILOSOPHIES AND POLICIES
It is the intent of the sixth grade teaching team to promote academic advancement and to develop
a sense of responsibility regarding homework assignments and bringing proper materials to the
classroom. The 6th grade team is committed to help the students through the difficult transition
from elementary school to middle school. 6th grade students will be subject to all Byron Middle
School behavior expectations, but the staff will spend time teaching the expectations, and will
help the students develop strategies to ensure a chance for success.
The sixth grade teachers will be available before and after school Monday through Thursday for
additional help.

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WELCOME TO BYRON MIDDLE SCHOOL
FROM THE SEVENTH GRADE TEAM

7th Grade Team

Mrs. Bukoski..................................................Language Arts
Mr. Kirk .................................................................... Science
Mrs. Hedlund ............................................................ Writing
Mrs. LeBlanc...........................................................Resource
Mrs. Messer.....................................................Social Studies
Mrs. Reilly .................................................................... Math
Mr. Stavnem................................ Health/Physical Education

Vision for 7th Graders

The teaching team believes 7th grade is a time of transition to more independence,
responsibility, and increased expectations. The team has a shared vision to help
students gain the skills and knowledge necessary to make this transition.

Therefore, we believe, students will…
1. …become more independent by accepting responsibility for their learning and

their actions.
2. …set challenging goals and give their best effort to achieve high academic

success.
3. …use and apply their knowledge and skills to become independent thinkers.
4. …behave towards others (peers and adults) in a manner of mutual respect and

acceptance.
5. …monitor their academic progress by maintaining an assignment notebook,

accessing homework hotline, and checking online grades on a regular basis.

9

WELCOME TO
BYRON MIDDLE SCHOOL

EIGHTH GRADE TEAM MEMBERS

Mrs. Basler Heather .................................................. Writing
Ms. DeVries ................................................................. Math
Mrs. Fletcher ...................................................Social Studies
Mrs. Prusator............................................................ Science
Ms. Powers.....................................................Language Arts
Mrs. Voiles..............................................................Resource
Mr. Elsbury. ............................................Physical Education

A VISION FOR 8TH GRADE

Byron Middle School teachers believe every student will have the opportunity to earn some level of success every
day.

1. We believe high expectations are necessary and good;
2. We believe that respect and a positive self-concept is earned through achieving success and overcoming

failure;
3. We believe that each student is ultimately responsible for educational success;
4. We believe the best learning is done when a student wants to learn and accepts the ultimate responsibility

for his/her own education;
5. We believe that students, parents, and staff must take responsibility for successful outcomes...

Furthermore, we believe that success is a result of all the involved people being able to find the avenues
for success;
6. We believe that time for learning should be varied according to the needs of the student and the complexity
of the task;
7. We believe that our number one priority is to promote success, achievement, and high expectations.

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BYRON MIDDLE SCHOOL
HOME-SCHOOL COMMUNICATION

In order to provide the best educational experience, it is important for the parents and school personnel to be in
continuous contact with each other. If the students know there is communication between home and school,
there is less of a chance of inaccurate information leading to problems or mistrust.

Parents are encouraged to contact a teacher, counselor, or administrator whenever there is a question regarding
their child. It is important for parents to know that we will do everything possible to take care of our students,
to keep them moving in a positive direction, and to ensure every child feels safe and secure within the middle
school. We hope parents will be comfortable in contacting the school and providing information about any
recent events that may impact a student’s ability to be successful at school on a given day. Parents are also
encouraged to contact school personnel if they see dramatic changes in their child’s behavior, motivation, or
attitude. Together, we might be able to determine the cause of the problem and discuss possible solutions.

Some examples of the currently available lines of communication are as follows:

 Skyward – 24/7 internet access to current grades and other information
 Phone Calls – teachers can be reached by contacting the main office at ext. 257. Parents are

discouraged from calling directly into the classroom, as this will cause a distraction.
 Email – all school personnel can be reached electronically. By navigating to the staff

directory on the district website, parents can directly contact any member of the staff.
 Parent/Teacher Conferences – can be requested at any time; can be initiated by parents or

teachers
 Parent/Administrator Conferences – can be requested at any time; can be initiated by

administrator or parents
 Parent/Counselor Conference - can be requested at any time; can be initiated by parents or

counselor
 Student/Teacher Conferences – usually initiated by staff; can be used to discuss progress,

current difficulties, or to commend students for improvement or other accolades
 Class Meetings – held as needed, during the school day.
 Report Cards – sent home at the end of the first semester; at the end of the 2nd semester.
 Daily Announcements – posted every morning; parents are encouraged to check the

announcements for the most current information regarding meetings, activities, deadlines,
etc. These are the same announcements read to the students at the end of 1st period.
Announcements are available online.
 Homework Hotline – posted every afternoon; see page 14 for details
 Open House – held at the start of the school year, this is an opportunity for the parents to
meet the teachers and gather information about the upcoming school year
 Back to School Night – held prior to the opening of school in the Fall, this is an opportunity
for the students to get lockers organized, pick up schedules and supplies, and become
familiar with the building
 Electronic Message Board – contains current information for the middle school, as well as
important district activities. Students of the Week are also recognized on the board.

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 Skylert Automated Messaging
 Student Recognition:

 Student of the Week – 2 students per grade level.
 Student of the Month – 1 student per grade level, and one OMNI selection; they receive

recognition at an all-school assembly, and are also recognized at a School Board meeting.
These students will also receive a monetary award from the Byron Bank.
 Principal’s Choice Art Award – student artwork is chosen to be displayed in the school
office. These students receive a certificate and recognition at an all-school assembly.
 Perfect Attendance – awarded per semester; students receive a certificate
 Honor Roll – awarded per semester; students receive a certificate

GRADING SCALE

The Byron School District has adopted the following grading scale:

A+ 99 - 100%
A 94 – 98%
A- 92 – 93%
B+ 90 – 91%
B 85 – 89%
B- 83 – 84%
C+ 81 – 82%
C 76 – 80%
C- 74 – 75%
D+ 72 – 73%
D 67 – 71%
D- 65 – 66%
F 64% and below

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BYRON MIDDLE SCHOOL HOMEWORK POLICY

We believe that formative homework is a valuable aid in helping students make the most of their experience
in school. We give homework to reinforce what has been taught in class, to prepare students for upcoming
lessons, and to help students develop self-discipline, responsibility, and organizational skills. Parents are the
key to making homework a positive experience for their children. Therefore, we ask that you make homework a
top priority. Providing the necessary supplies and a quiet homework environment are essential. Your praise and
support can help your child have a successful year. To assist you in monitoring your child’s homework, the
school has provided each student with an assignment notebook. Making a habit of checking this notebook will
help you keep track of their homework and assignments.

We believe that all students have the following homework responsibilities:
1. When an assignment is given, the student will be expected to complete every problem, section, and
component of the assignment, with the work reflecting appropriate effort.
2. The student will turn in work on time.
3. The student will turn in work that is neatly done.
4. The student will be responsible for making up homework missed due to an absence. The work
must be completed by the date assigned by the office. Students who fail to submit missed work by
the due date may be subject to after-school, office, or Saturday detentions for the purpose of
getting caught up with work.

HOMEWORK INTERVENTION

Students need to come to the realization they will be required to complete every assignment that is given to
them. Students who fail to turn in an assignment on time will be required to complete the assignment by
reporting to a classroom during their lunch period. This lunchtime program is referred to as “Catch-Up Café”.
The students will still be allowed to eat lunch in the classroom, but will be expected to be working on their late
assignments as well. Students who do not bring a lunch from home will be able to purchase a sack lunch from
the cafeteria. The sack lunch will meet all nutritional requirements established by the Illinois State Board of
Education. The students will remain in the Catch-Up Café for as many days as it takes to get their work
completed.

Students who receive multiple referrals to the Catch-Up Café will be subject to the following consequences:

 3 in a row - Potential all day office detention
 6 -Student conference with homeroom teacher/fill out form to be sent home.
 9 - Saturday Detention from 8:00-10:00
 12- Saturday Detention from 8:00-12:00
 Administration Plan – two in one week = Saturday Detention from 8-12. Students will go off the

plan after four successful consecutive weeks of one or fewer CC appearances.

Students who continue to struggle with homework completion, despite the interventions mentioned above, may
be assigned after-school, office, or Saturday detentions for the purpose of getting caught-up. These
arrangements will be made in consultation with the parents.

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BYRON SCHOOL DISTRICT WEBSITE

The Byron School District maintains a website at

http://www.byron226.org/pages/byron226

On the website, you can find all important information pertaining to the school district. The following
information can be found on the Middle School page of the website:
- Homework Hotline (see below)
- Daily Announcements
- eBackpack
- Skyward access (online grade reporting)
- Access to Web Locker (online student file storage)
- Lunch Menus
- Skyward Student Information System (online system for managing lunch accounts and other payments)
- Teacher Web Pages
- Staff Contact Information & Forms
- School Handbooks
- Staff Directories
- Activity Calendar
- Grade Level Information
- Activity Pages containing pictures, schedules, and news
- Curriculum Maps
- State Report Cards
- Student Conflict/Bullying Reporting Form

HOMEWORK HOTLINE

The Middle School teachers will post daily homework assignments on the Byron School District website.
The Homework Hotline is usually available for viewing by 3:00 pm. To access this service:

1. Go to the Byron School District website (http://www.byron226.org/pages/byron226)
2. The new website was still under construction during handbook review and update. The instructions

on how to access homework hotline will be available at the main office.

14

STUDENT CONFLICT

HARASSMENT / BULLYING
Respect for the dignity of others is a cornerstone of civil society. Bullying creates an atmosphere of fear and intimidation,
robs a person of their dignity, detracts from the safe environment necessary to promote student learning, and will not be
tolerated by the faculty and staff at Byron Middle School.

Definition: Bullying includes cyber-bullying and means any severe or pervasive physical or verbal act or conduct, including
communications made in writing or electronically, directed toward a student or students that has or can be reasonably
predicted to have the effect of one or more of the following:

1. Placing the student or students in reasonable fear of harm to the student’s or students’ person or property;
2. Causing a substantially detrimental effect on the student’s or students’ physical or mental health;
3. Substantially interfering with the student’s or students’ academic performance; or
4. Substantially interfering with the student’s or students’ ability to participate in or benefit from the services,
activities, or privileges provided by a school.

Cyber-bullying means bullying through the use of technology or any electronic communication, including without
limitation any transfer of signs, signals, writing, images, sounds, data, or intelligence of any nature transmitted in whole or
in part by a wire, radio, electromagnetic system, photo-electronic system, or photo-optical system, including without
limitation electronic mail, Internet communications, instant messages, or facsimile communications.

Students are encouraged to immediately report bullying. A report may be made orally or in writing to the building
principal or any staff member with whom the student is comfortable speaking. Anyone, including staff members and
parents/guardians, who has information about actual or threatened bullying is encouraged to report it to the building
principal, district complaint manager, or any staff member. Anonymous reports are also accepted.

If a student believes he/she is a victim of Cyberbullying, there are several things the student, or the student’s
parent, should do:

 print a copy of the web page in question that shows where it was posted, as well as all questionable content.
 contact the host of the website to report the incident. There will be a link on the web page, directing you

to the proper place to report an incident of abuse of the service.
 contact the local law enforcement agency to report the incident, especially if it involves direct or indirect

threats or violence.
 notify the Principal, School Counselor, or Social Worker at the Middle School so an investigation can

begin.

Bullying is contrary to State law and the policy of this District. More information on our District bullying policy may be
found in our District Handbook, located on the Byron School District website.
(Reference Board Policy 7:20, 7:180, 7:190)

Preventing conflict between students is a never-ending task. There is always going to be conflict when a large
group of adolescents are concentrated in a small area (such as a school building). This conflict can generally be
grouped into one of three types:

 Normal Peer Conflict – behavior that can be expected to occur in social settings involving teens and pre-
teens. This conflict usually occurs between friends or ex-friends, and takes the form of name calling,
gossip, exclusion, dirty looks, etc.

15

 Harassment – irritating, inappropriate, or unwanted behaviors directed at a student for the purpose of
embarrassment, intimidation, or attention. Harassment can occur as a single incident or it can be repeated
over time, and is expressed through face-to-face verbal exchanges or through the use of technology (social
media, texting, etc.)

 Bullying – the most extreme form of conflict, it is characterized by aggressive behavior and an intent to
do harm, with the behavior occurring over a prolonged period of time. Bullies rely on an imbalance of
power, whether the power is real or perceived, with a goal of inflicting physical or verbal suffering on the
victim. Physical Bullying can include punching, shoving, poking, hair pulling, etc., while Verbal or
Psychological Bullying consists of teasing, humiliation, intimidation, threats, etc.

Nobody deserves to be “picked on”, regardless of the level of severity. Every adult in Byron Middle School is
involved in the fight against student conflict. We do our best to detect problems, and are constantly looking and
listening for problems. Unfortunately, we can’t be everywhere. Therefore, we must rely on the students to let us
know when they are confronted with a situation which makes them feel uncomfortable or threatened. These
incidents can be reported in numerous ways:

 Tell an adult immediately
 Fill out a Student Conflict Form, and turn it in to an adult. These forms are available in every classroom

in the building, and a sample is included on page 18 .
 Use the reporting form available on the middle school web page.

We are committed to preventing these behaviors, and our approach will address the unique needs of all involved
students, whether they are the antagonists, the victims, or the bystanders. Parents, students, and school staff need
to work together to address these incidents in a quick and satisfactory way.

What should you do if you are involved in a conflict?
 Tell the aggressor to stop
 Do not argue or retaliate, or get your friends to argue or retaliate
 Get away from the aggressor
 Report the incident immediately to an adult, either face-to-face or through the use of a Conflict Form
 Avoid situations where you can be confronted again
 If an adult intervenes, and the behavior continues, don’t stop reporting the conflict! We can’t help if we
don’t know what is going on.

Aggressive behavior, bullying, harassment, and intimidation may be considered gross disobedience/misconduct.
Consequences for exhibiting such behaviors may include referrals, detentions, suspensions, or expulsion,
depending on the severity and frequency of the behavior.
(Reference Board Policy 7:20, 7:180, 7:190)

SEXUAL HARASSMENT
The staff of the Byron Middle School will not allow students to be sexually harassed. All students have a legal
right to an education free from sexual harassment.

Sexual harassment is a kind of discrimination. It means that someone is treated differently because of his or her
gender or sexuality. Sexual harassment is unwanted and not-welcomed sexual behavior, which makes someone
feel uncomfortable or offended. Sexual harassment is a serious problem. It shows disrespect for its victims,
whether they’re male or female.

16

Sexual harassment can take many different forms. It can be:
Physical harassment:

 Grabbing or touching someone
 Comments about a person’s body
 Tearing or pulling at a person’s clothing
 Kissing or holding a person against his or her will. Stopping a person from moving freely.
Verbal harassment:
 Comments about body parts or rating people’s bodies
 Sexual suggestions or threats
 Spreading sexual rumors or stories
 Dirty jokes
 Using homosexuality or bisexuality as an insult
Nonverbal harassment:
 Staring in a way that seems too personal
 Pointing at a person’s body or body parts
 Obscene gestures
 Displaying obscene sexual materials in someone’s locker or on someone’s computer.
 Writing people’s names along with sexual remarks, suggestions, or drawing in public places
Sometimes it’s difficult to tell whether or not you’re being sexually harassed, or if someone is flirting with or
teasing you. It might be sexual harassment if you’re thinking:
 “I can’t believe this is happening to me”
 “I wish I could get away.”
 “If I say anything, everyone will think I’m crazy.”
 “Why me? What did I do?”
If you think you’re being sexually harassed, talk to the school Counselor, the school Social Worker, an
administrator, or to any teacher you trust.
(Reference Board Policy 7:20)

17

Byron Middle School Student Conflict Reporting Form

**THIS FORM CAN BE RETURNED TO ANY ADULT WORKING IN THE BUILDING**

Reporter Information:

Your Name: ___________________________________________________________________________

Check whether you are the: Target of behavior Witness Other

Incident Information:

Name of targeted student: ______________________________________________________________

Name(s) of aggressor(s) (person engaging in inappropriate behavior): ____________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________

Date(s) of incident(s) (be as specific as possible): _____________________________________________

Specific location(s): _____________________________________________________________________

Please list the names of anybody who witnessed the incident or can provide information: ____________
_____________________________________________________________________________________

Incident Details

Describe the details of the incident, including names of those involved, what occurred, and what was said or
done. Include specific phrases if possible:

____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________

For Office Use Only

18

RtI - Response to Intervention

RtI is a multi-tiered, data driven model in which the academic and behavioral needs of students
are addressed in the general education setting. It allows educators to target instructional
interventions in response to children’s specific areas of need as soon as those needs become
apparent. Before, the education system waited for a student to fail before attempting more
intensive academic & behavioral interventions. Current research indicates that early
intervention is crucial to a student’s success. RtI at Byron Middle School currently addresses
reading, math, and behavior.

Academic Response to Intervention
Academic Response to Intervention (RtI) is a federal mandate in accordance with the No Child
Left Behind Act (NCLB) of 2001 and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement
Act (IDEA) 2004. Both laws emphasize the importance of providing high quality,
scientifically-based instruction and interventions for the progress of students in terms of
meeting grade level standards.

Students of concern are identified by collecting and analyzing academic data such as MAP
assessment scores, AIMSweb math and reading benchmark and progress monitoring data, and
PARCC Scores. Teacher reported concerns are also taken into consideration in this process.

Tier 1
o Everything that is done on a daily basis by classroom teachers to meet the needs of all
students
o Serves as a foundation and supports all higher tiers
o Serves students in the general education classroom using high quality, differentiated
instruction
o Utilizes data from universal screenings and assessments to drive decisions for
instruction

Tier 2
o Serves approximately 10-15% of students who need more strategic interventions
because of insufficient progress in Tier 1
o Serves students in small groups and provides continuous instructional interventions
o Progress is monitored more frequently

Tier 3
o Serves students who do not respond to interventions in Tiers 1 and 2
o Serves approximately 3-5% of total student population
o Provides intensive interventions and progress monitoring

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Behavioral Response to Intervention
Students of concern are identified by collecting and analyzing school-wide behavioral data from
referrals, attendance, and number of times in Catch-up Café. Teacher reported concerns are
also taken into consideration in this process.
Tier 1

o Everything that is done on a daily basis by classroom teachers to meet the needs of all
students

o Serves as a foundation and supports all higher tiers
o Serves students in the general education classroom using high quality, differentiated

classroom management strategies and supportive activities
o Utilizes data from universal data collection to drive decisions for intervention need

and additional social-emotional/behavioral supports
Tier 2

o Serves approximately 10-15% of students who need more strategic interventions
because of deficits in social-emotional or behavioral skills

o Serves students in small groups and provides continuous short-term interventions
o Progress is monitored more frequently
Tier 3
o Serves students who do not respond to interventions in Tiers 1 and 2
o Serves approximately 3-5% of total student population
o Provides intensive, individualized interventions and progress monitoring

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Byron Middle School
Pyramid of Interventions

At Risk/Academics

Second TIER 3
additional
class period of
math and/or reading
Progress monitoring
with progress updates
every 2 weeks

Additional class period of math TIER 2
and/or reading
TIER 1
Progress monitoring with progress
updates every 2 weeks

Parent/student conference
Counseling
Goal setting

Assignment notebook monitoring
Study guides
Notes provided

Additional test time

Assignment notebook
Online Grade reporting through PIV
Homework policy per school handbook

Parent contact
After school teacher support

Counselor watch
Office detention
Saturday school
Catch up Café
Extended day
Compass Learning Odyssey
Common assessments
Standards based curriculum

21

Byron Middle School
Pyramid of Interventions
Social-Emotional/Behavior

Special
Education
BIP/ Evaluation
FBA

CICO with Tier 3
individualized

goals;
Complex BIP/FBA;

Parent/Grade
level team
conference
weekly;

Crisis situation
One-on-one
counseling

Social/Academic Instructional Groups; Tier 2
Simple BIP/FBA;
CICO basic;

Teacher/student conference;
Individual organization plan

Assignment notebook/organizer; Earn stripes;
After-school program;
Parent contact; Tier 1
After-school teacher support;
Counselor watch;
Homeroom meetings;
Class celebrations;
Classroom-level interventions;
Tiger tickets;

22

PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports)

Byron Middle School utilizes PBIS. PBIS is a framework designed to create a social-culture in a school that
encourages positive behavior and interactions while discouraging problem behaviors. This social-culture will
lead to a safer environment where students achieve academically and build positive relationships with each
other and with adults. PBIS helps Byron Middle School students behave in a safe and respectful way so they
are ready to learn.

The three basic guidelines we have chosen as a framework to achieve this are BMS:
Be Respectful
Make Smart Choices
Safety Always

Students will be rewarded for demonstrating expected behaviors. These behaviors will be taught to students,
modeled for students, practiced during the school day, and reinforced throughout the school year. See page 25
for the BMS Behavior Matrix which explains expected behaviors.

Byron Middle School has established a system of consequences when expected behaviors are not practiced.
These consequences will be based on a system of minor and major referrals. Referrals will reset quarterly
meaning all prior referrals will be removed at the start of each quarter of the school year. See page 26 for the
PBIS Student Referral Form.

Minor Discipline Referral - A form is completed by a staff member and entered into Skyward. Students who
accumulate minor referrals will receive the following consequences:

 3 - After-school detention until 4:00 and student conference with administration/fill out form to
be sent home.

 6 - After-school detention until 4:00 - Student conference with homeroom teacher or
counselor/fill out form to be sent home.

 9 - Saturday detention 8:00-10:00
 12 - Saturday detention 8:00-12:00
 Administration Plan – two in one week = Saturday Detention from 8-12. Students will go off the

plan after four successful consecutive weeks of one or fewer referrals.
*At the end of the first semester, the length of detentions may be increased to 4:30 or 5:00 by administration.

Major Discipline Referral - Major referrals will be handled by an administrator, with consequences based on
the severity of the behavior. Home contact via phone, e-mail, or letter is a part of this process.

Unprepared for Class – based on our experience, the most frequent problem behavior involves students being
unprepared for class (meaning they need to leave class to retrieve necessary materials or they are tardy to class).
In order to target this behavior effectively, incidents of Unprepared for Class will be exempt from the referral
process, and will instead follow the guidelines listed below:

23

 3 – Student informed by homeroom teacher that have reached that benchmark, each grade level
would determine method. (verbal warning, sticker, note, email)

 6 - Student conference with homeroom teacher/fill out form to be sent home.
 9 - After-school detention to 4:00 (organize locker)
 12- Saturday Detention from 8:00-10:00
 15 - Saturday Detention from 8:00-12:00
 Administration Plan – three in one week = Saturday Detention from 8-12. Students will go off

the plan after four successful consecutive weeks of three or fewer UPC.
*- At the end of the first semester, the length of detentions may be increased to 4:30 or 5:00 by
administration.

24

PBIS Reward Process

To effectively change student behavior and improve the school climate, Byron Middle School has developed a
reinforcement plan to strengthen and support the PBIS program. The process includes:

1. Weekly rewards
2. Quarterly rewards
3. Yearly reward

Tiger Tickets:
These tickets are an integral part of the reward process. All staff in the building will use these to reinforce
appropriate behavior. Students will have two options when receiving tickets; they may be used to purchase
items from the school store or to enter into a weekly drawing.

Earn Your Stripes Tickets:
These tickets are given to students who exhibit behaviors that go above and beyond everyday expectations.
When these are received, students’ names will be displayed on the Wall of Fame and be entered into a quarterly
drawing to take place during our school-wide PBIS celebration. These students will also qualify for the end of
the year drawing.

Celebrations:
Grade level celebrations will occur weekly. These celebrations will include student recognition and Tiger
Ticket prize drawings.

School wide celebrations will occur over the course of the school year. One celebration will kick off the
beginning of the school year, followed by a celebration at the end of each semester. All students will be
allowed to attend; however, students with excessive minor referrals will not be allowed to participate in the
activity. For any student with a major referral, participation will be at the discretion of administration.

Family Involvement in PBIS

Family involvement is a key feature when developing positive behavior support plans for students. Parents can
participate in PBIS in different ways:

 Learn about PBIS
- Read PBIS materials offered by the school
- Learn about the school’s PBIS model

 Use PBIS strategies in home and community environments
- Teach behavior expectations to your children
- Use and reinforce PBIS strategies at home and in the community

 Participate in PBIS at the middle school
- Volunteer to join a PBIS committee. Committee meetings are held weekly, addressing topics
such as celebrations and data analysis.
- Volunteer to help at celebrations, or to help at the school store

Parents interested in getting involved with the PBIS team should contact the school office (ext. 257) for more
information.

25

26

PBIS – Student Referral Form – Byron Middle School

Name: Date:
Time:
Grade: 678 Staff:

BMS Expectation Not Met:

Be Respectful Make Smart Choices Safety Always

STAFF SECTION

Minor Behavior Problems Location Others Possible Motivation Teacher/Staff Action
Involved
Inappropriate Language Obtain Peer Attention Sent to Office
Physical Contact Classroom No one Obtain Adult Attention Loss of Privileges
Aggression Playground Peers Obtain Items/activities Conference with
Disrespect Commons/Pod Staff Avoid Task/Difficulty Student
Defiance Hall Sub Avoid Peers Parent Contact
Non-compliance Cafeteria Teacher Avoid Adults Detention
Disruption Bathroom Other Other _____________ Individualized
Property Misuse Gymnasium Instruction
Dress Code Library Bus Suspension
Technology Bus Saturday School
Tardy Special Event/ Expulsion
Other:___________ Other:__________
Assembly
Locker Room
Office
Other: _______

ADMINISTRATION SECTION

Major Behavior Problems Location Others Possible Motivation Administration
Involved Action
Profanity/Language
Gross Insubordination Classroom No one Obtain Peer Attention Sent to Office
Cheating Playground Peers Obtain Adult Attention Loss of Privileges
Harassment/Bullying Commons/Pod Staff Obtain Items/activities Conference with
Fighting Hall Sub Avoid Task/Difficulty Student
Disruption Cafeteria Teacher Avoid Peers Parent Contact
Tardy/Truancy Bathroom Other Avoid Adults Detention
Property Damage/ Gymnasium Other _____________ Bus Suspension
Vandalism Library In School
Forgery/Theft Bus Suspension
Technology Violation Special Event/ Out of School
Tobacco Possession Assembly Suspension
Alcohol Possession Locker Room Saturday School
Drugs Possession Office Expulsion
Weapons Other: _______ Other
Other: _____________

OTHER COMMENTS: _________________________________________________________________
Parent Signature: ________________________________________________ Date:___________________
Student Signature: ________________________________________________Date: __________________
Staff Signature: __________________________________________________Date: __________________

27

BMS STUDENT RULES & REGULATIONS

The following rules and regulations are not intended to be all-inclusive. Students may be subject to disciplinary
action any time you behave in such a way that is disruptive, illegal, inconsiderate of others, or in violation of the District
policies, rules, or regulations.

Please recognize that these rules apply at all times while students are on campus, on school-sponsored field trips,
on school buses, at school bus stops, while you are traveling to and from school or school bus stops, while students are at
school-sponsored events and activities, and at any other time or place that student conduct may affect the safety and/or
well-being of other students and/or staff.

Students may be subject to discipline for any conduct that takes place off-campus and/or outside of school where
there is a reasonable belief by school administration that student behavior has caused or will interfere with the safety and/or
well-being of students/staff. Students are responsible for following all rules and regulations contained in the Board of
Education’s policies and this Handbook.

ABSENCES – ACTIVITY PARTICIPATION ABSENCES - EXCUSED
In order for a student to participate in an after-school No absence will be considered excused unless a
activity (practice, competition, club meeting, etc.), the parent or guardian calls the Middle School office
student must be in attendance for a minimum of four before 9:00 a.m. on the day of the absence with an
academic class periods (not counting lunch or acceptable reason. The following reasons are
homeroom). Students who leave school early due to considered excused absences:
illness will not be allowed to participate in after-school
activities, even if they have the required four periods of 1. Illness
attendance. 2. Doctor appointments (student will be excused

ABSENCES – EXCESSIVE for the time spent traveling to and from the
Student absences will be considered excessive when it appointment, and for the appointment itself. A
significantly interferes with a student’s learning, as doctor appointment is not necessarily an excuse
reflected in academic performance or social for missing an entire day of school.)
development. Middle School students who 3. Serious illnesses or death in the family.
accumulate more than 10 (ten) days of absence in one 4. Family vacations approved in advance with the
school year will be classified as excessive absentees, building principal.
and will be subject to the following protocol: When 5. Absences approved in advance with the building
school administrators consider a student’s absenteeism principal.
to be excessive, the student will be asked to participate in 6. Out-of-school suspensions
a conference with an administrator or a counselor. The In certain circumstances, it is understandable that a
parent will be notified as to corrective measures deemed phone call cannot be made by the 9:00 deadline. In these
necessary to correct the attendance problem. Under cases, the absence will still be considered excused if the
certain circumstances, students with excessive or student brings a note from a parent or doctor explaining
unusual absence patterns may be required to submit the reason for the absence. This note must be
verification of illness from a physician or to be examined presented upon the student’s return to school
by the school nurse to obtain an excused absence. If following the absence. Notes of explanation received
verification of illness is requested, the student must be after the student’s return to school will not be
seen by a physician in order for the absence to be accepted.
excused. Students who do not comply with any part of
this procedure will be deemed unexcused. The school will Upon returning from an excused absence, students will
send a letters when students reach the 5 (five) and 10 be given a due date (one day for each day they missed)
(ten) day absence totals. This counts for both full and half to make-up any missed work or assignments. Students
day. If you have questions, please contact the office. will not necessarily receive an extension on the due date
(Reference Board Policy 7:70) for any missed assignment or project. If the absence
occurs prior to the due date, the student may be required
to make-up the time missed rather than receiving an
extension on the due date. (See Admit Slips)
(Reference Board Policy 7:70)

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ABSENCES - UNEXCUSED respect. Violation of these rules during a school activity
Absences that may have the knowledge or approval of the will result in the same consequences as if the behavior
parent, but not the school, will be considered unexcused. occurred during the school day.
The following reasons are examples of unexcused (Reference Board Policy 8:40)
absences:
ADMIT SLIPS
1. Truancy In order to keep track of student absences and the
2. Over sleeping resulting missed assignments, Byron Middle School uses
3. Missing the bus office-issued Admit Slips. Following ANY absence from
4. Car trouble school, be it one period or an entire day, the student must,
5. Baby-sitting upon their return to school, report directly to the office for
6. Other absences not approved through the an admit slip. The admit slip will indicate whether the
absence was excused or unexcused. For excused
building principal’s office absences, a due date for the work missed will be
Multiple unexcused absences or tardies will result in determined and entered on the slip. The admit slip must
a referral being made to the Ogle Co. Truancy be presented to each teacher whose class was missed.
Officer. A student may also be subject to additional The teacher will enter any make-up work on the slip, and
consequences, such as after school or Saturday return the slip to the student. Once the admit slip has
detentions to make up for the time missed from school. been presented to all the required teachers, a copy of the
admit slip will be collected; the student will retain the
Upon returning from an unexcused absence, students original copy. It is the student’s responsibility to pick up
will be given a due date (one day for each day they the slip from the office, and to see that it is filled out
missed) to make-up any missed work or assignments. properly. It is also the student’s responsibility to adhere
Students will not necessarily receive an extension on the to the due dates for all missed work. Failure to do so may
due date for any missed assignment or project. If the result in an after-school, office, or Saturday detention, for
absence occurs prior to the due date, the student may the purpose of getting caught up with missing work.
be required to make-up the time missed rather than
receiving an extension on the due date. AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
(Reference Board Policy 7:70) Byron Middle School conducts a multi-level after-school
program for the purpose of providing students additional
ABSENCES - VACATIONS help for their classroom work, and also for helping
Byron Middle School strongly discourages parents and students to address deficiencies in their learning. Almost
guardians from taking vacations during periods when all teachers will be available in their classrooms from 2:53
school is in session. When a family plans a vacation until 3:20. Students may visit a classroom during this time
which requires a student to miss school for more than two period to complete class work, seek additional assistance
days, the following guidelines must be followed before the or clarification, or complete homework. Students who
absence will be excused: need to stay in the building after school to wait for the start
of an activity can either visit a classroom for specific help
1. Notice to principal at least one week prior to going or report to the cafeteria, where a study hall will be
so make-up work may be arranged. maintained. Any students staying in the building after 3:00
will be expected to be in a classroom under the
2. Full credit will be given providing all make-up supervision of a staff member, and will be expected to be
work is completed properly, and in a timely working on school assignments. At 3:20, students will be
manner (as determined by the teachers). dismissed from the classrooms and cafeteria. At this time
the students should either leave the building, report to
3. Time allowed for completion of work will be the their activity sponsor (if waiting for practice to start, etc.),
same as other excused absences. or report to the library for the extended after-school
program. If participating in the extended program, the
4. Upon return, the student must pick up an admit students will be required to be actively involved in a
slip from the office and report to his/her teachers program of study designed to address learning
to have the slip signed. deficiencies. The extended program ends at 4:00, at
which time the students will be required to leave the
Students will be allowed a maximum of 5 (five) excused building. Students taking advantage of bus transportation
vacation days per school year. Once the 5 day limit is will board the late buses at this time.
reached, additional vacation days will be considered Students who misbehave during the after school
unexcused absences. sessions, or who fail to report to a supervised area, will be

ACTIVITY/EXTRA-CURRICULAR EVENT BEHAVIOR
The rules of student conduct outlined in the handbook
will be enforced at all school-sponsored activities,
including but not limited to field trips, assemblies, school
dances, and sporting events. Students are expected to
dress and behave appropriately and to treat others with

29

instructed to leave the building. Depending on the level activities are scheduled in the building, the appropriate
or frequency of misbehavior, a student may be forbidden doors will be unlocked prior to the event. Access to other
from staying in the school building after 3:00, and parts of the building besides those necessary for the
additional consequences such as detentions or activity will be restricted.
suspensions may be issued.
BULLYING / HARASSMENT / INTIMIDATION
ANIMALS AND PETS ON SCHOOL PROPERTY See page 15 for a comprehensive description of our anti-
In order to assure student health and safety, animals are bullying initiatives.
not allowed on school property, except in the case of a
service animal accompanying a student or other individual CALENDAR
with a documented disability. This rule may be The Byron Foundation for Educational Excellence puts
temporarily waived by the building principals in the case out a yearly calendar, which is available for purchase at
of and educational opportunity for students, provided that the Back To School night held prior to the opening of
(a) the animal is appropriately housed, humanely cared school in the Fall. The school website also contains an
for, and properly handled, and (b) students will not be interactive, searchable, up-to-date calendar of events.
exposed to a dangerous animal or an unhealthy
environment. CAMERAS
Cameras (including video cameras) are not allowed to be
ATHLETIC / ACTIVITY PRACTICE used during the school day unless it is a requirement for
Extra-curricular practices or meetings for any Byron a classroom activity, or has been pre-approved by the
Middle School athletic or activity group will not be allowed Principal. Student possession of these items in the
to begin prior to 3:30. Students participating in these building or on school grounds during the school day (7:30
activities will be required to report to a classroom or to the a.m. – 3:20 p.m.) is restricted to storage in lockers. The
cafeteria at the end of the school day, where they will be school district is not responsible for theft or damage to
expected to complete schoolwork until 3:20, at which time items brought onto school property. Violation of this
the students will be dismissed to report to their policy will result in confiscation of the device. The
coach/advisor. The time, length and frequency of practice student may pick up the device at the end of the
sessions will be at the discretion of the coach/advisor. school day. After the first offense, a parent or
guardian will need to retrieve the item from the office.
BICYCLES Depending on the circumstances of the violation,
Students may ride bicycles to school. Students are only additional consequences (referrals, detentions) may
allowed to ride bicycles on the bike path next to Colfax result.
Street, and on the sidewalk alongside the north entrance
to the middle school. Bicycles must be walked on any CELL PHONES & CELL PHONE WATCHES
other sidewalk, parking lot, or roadway on middle school Student possession of cell phones in the building or on
property. Bicycles must be parked in the rack provided school grounds during the school day is restricted to
for them. Bicycle privileges will be taken away if the storage in hall lockers. Students are allowed to use their
student is seen riding unsafely on school property, either phones in the cafeteria until they are dismissed to their
at the middle school, the high school, or Mary Morgan first class at 7:45. They are to remain in their lockers until
elementary school. 2:53 p.m. Cell phones are never allowed in the locker
rooms, so they should not be stored in the PE lockers.
BUILDING SECURITY The school district is not responsible for theft or damage
From 7:00 a.m. until the start of the school day, several to phones brought onto school property. Phones must be
entrances will be unlocked to allow student entry. Within turned off during the school day, and while the student is
10 minutes of the start of school, all exterior doors will be participating in a school event. The cell phone must not
locked, and will remain locked for the duration of the be visible during these time periods. Students may not
school day. Entry to the building will only be allowed initiate or receive calls or text messages during the school
through the main door near the office, and only after the day or while participating in school events without the
visitor has buzzed into the office and identified express permission of school officials. Violation of the
themselves. Anyone entering the building during the cell phone policy will result in confiscation of the
school day must check-in at the office counter. phone. A parent or guardian will need to retrieve the
phone from the office. If the phone rings/vibrates during
At the end of the school day, all doors will remain locked the school day, or if a student is caught using the phone
with the exception of the main doors near the office. (or phone camera) while school is in session, the student
These doors will be unlocked at 4:00, and will remain will also receive a Saturday detention. If the phone is used
unlocked until approximately 7:00 pm. If after-school to transmit or record information relating to classroom

30

assignments or assessments, the student will also be consequences such as referrals, detention, suspension,
subject to the consequences for cheating. If a student or expulsion.
needs to make a call during the school day, there is a
phone available for student use in the main office. If the An objection form is available in the Byron Middle School
student is not comfortable leaving the phone in their office for parents or guardians who wish to restrict their
locker, they may drop it off in the morning in the main child's access to the Internet.
office, where it will be stored safely until the end of the
school day, when the student can pick it up. Please refer to the District Handbook for a complete
(Reference Board Policy 7:190) description of the policies governing computer use in the
Byron School District.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
Please inform the office if you change your home address, CORPORAL PUNISHMENT
email address, or telephone number. Staff members shall not be permitted to use corporal
punishment (defined as physical punishment) but may
CHEATING/PLAGIARIZING use such physical restraint as is deemed necessary to
Cheating includes, but is not limited to, unauthorized protect themselves or other students, staff members or
possession of an exam or answer key, providing access other persons from bodily harm or such as is deemed
to materials or information so that credit may be necessary to protect against property damage.
dishonestly claimed by others, sharing work with another (Reference Board Policy 7:190)
student or assisting him/her to obtain another’s work, or
knowingly altering another student’s work. Plagiarizing CYBERBULLYING/SOCIAL NETWORKING
will be deemed cheating, and is defined as using See page 15 for a comprehensive description of our anti-
someone else’s work without giving proper recognition. bullying initiatives.
Plagiarism includes using another student’s work, using
another scholar’s work, or borrowing someone else’s DANGEROUS CONDUCT/WEAPONS/OBJECTS
intellectual ideas or property without giving proper Any action, or possession of a dangerous object, which
recognition. Students caught cheating, whether giving or endangers the safety and well-being of individuals is
receiving information, may receive a detention or a prohibited. Students who engage in dangerous conduct or
referral, and their parents will be notified. These students the possession of dangerous objects may also be referred
may also be required to complete an alternate to law enforcement authorities. Examples of conduct that
assignment, potentially at a time outside of the regular is considered “dangerous conduct” and is prohibited
school day. include, but are not limited to the following: sounding a
(Reference Board Policy 7:190) false fire alarm, possession of a weapon (defined below),
possession of dangerous materials, substances, or drug
CLOSED CAMPUS paraphernalia, and/or alcohol, mob action, and causing
Students are not permitted to leave the school grounds at physical harm to a student or staff member.
any time during the school day without permission from
the school office. In order for a student to leave the Pursuant to federal and state law, it is the policy of the
building during school or to return to school they must sign Board of Education to expel from school any student who
out at the office. Failure to follow the proper procedure has possession or control of or uses or transfers a
will be considered an unexcused absence. "weapon" at school, any school sponsored activity or
event, or any activity or event which bears a reasonable
COMPUTERS relationship to school. The term "weapon" in this context
Appropriate access to computers and the Internet is is defined in number 2 below. The length of the expulsion
provided to students in all Byron CUSD #226 schools as period will be determined by administration.
part of the instructional program. Students are allowed
access only to those Internet sites and features that are Weapons,
(1) pre-approved by their teachers or (2) accessed under 1. For purposes of general disciplinary authority,
the direct and immediate supervision of their teacher.
“weapon” includes any object which may be used or
Violations of acceptable computer or internet use will be attempted to be used to cause bodily harm.
judged according to the standards of the Byron Middle
School staff, and will be dealt with according to the 2. For purposes of a mandatory expulsion pursuant to the
discipline policy of the school. This may include loss of
computer and/or Internet access with additional School Code, “weapon” means (a) gun, rifle, shotgun,

31

firearm, any device which expels a projectile by the action behavior not only for their own benefit, but for the benefit
of an explosive, bomb, grenade, rocket, missile with of others as well.
explosive or incendiary charge, black-jack, metal Each team has specific discipline policies that are strictly
knuckles, throwing star, switchblade knife, (b) a enforced to ensure that your child has a good learning
dangerous knife or any other dangerous or deadly climate.
weapon if possessed with the intent to use against This school will not tolerate disruptions by a student in any
another, (c) any other object if used or attempted to be form or for any reason. If such a situation does occur, the
used to cause bodily harm, including, but not limited to, individual student will obey the class teacher, or anyone
knives, brass knuckles, billy clubs, or (d) “look-alikes” of else in authority. Failure to do so may result in a detention,
such weapons. suspension, or expulsion from school.
(Reference Board Policy 7:190)
DEPARTMENT OF STUDENT SERVICES
The Byron Middle School Counseling department is DISHONESTY
available to assist the students with educational and Students are expected to deal honestly with school staff
personal counseling services. Both a Counselor and a and their fellow students. All types of dishonesty are
Social Worker are available to meet with and assist the prohibited and include, but are not limited to, lying to
middle school students. If you wish to see a counselor, school officials, forging/altering school forms, and
stop in and make an appointment. forging/altering parent/guardian signatures.
(Reference Board Policy 7:190)
DETENTION
From time to time students will be required to come to DISRESPECT
school early or stay after school, for either academic or Students are expected to treat all members of the school
behavior reasons. Whenever possible, one day’s notice staff with an appropriate level of respect, both through
is given to students so that they can inform their parents their words and actions. Students are required to follow
and make arrangements for transportation, if necessary. directions and heed warnings when issued by an adult.
Failure to report to an assigned detention will result in an This courtesy should also be extended to all visitors to the
increase in the penalty, including possible Saturday building. Acts of disrespect will be handled on a case-by
detention or suspension. case basis, and may be subject to consequences
including referrals, detention, or suspension.
DETENTION - SATURDAY
This detention occurs in school on Saturday, from 8:00 DRESS CODE
a.m.-12:00 noon. Students will be expected to do school There is a strong relationship between good dress
work. A missed Saturday detention will result in a habits, good work habits, and proper school behavior.
rescheduling of the Saturday detention and a full day Students are encouraged to dress in a way that
office detention. If a student misses multiple assigned demonstrates pride in themselves and Byron Middle
Saturday detentions, out-of-school suspension will be the School. The dress code was not created to interfere with
next step. a student’s free choice but to ensure that our student’s
(Reference Board Policy 7:190) first priority while at school is learning!

DETENTION - OFFICE In accordance with the School Board policies, we believe
An office detention will be served in the main office, under that appropriate dress contributes to a productive
the direct supervision of school personnel. If there are learning environment. As our school dress code is in
numerous students serving office detentions on a given compliance with our Board Policies and Administrative
day, they will be placed in an available room under the Regulations, we expect our students to give proper
direct supervision of school personnel. This detention attention to personal cleanliness and to wear clothes that
may be assigned for varying lengths of time, ranging from are suitable for the school activities in which they
one class period to an entire day. These detentions will participate. Students have the right to make individual
be assigned by the Principal. A student will be expected choices from a wide range of clothing and grooming
to complete his or her school work during the office styles, but they must not present a health or safety
detention. hazard or a distraction, which would interfere with the
(Reference Board Policy 7:190) educational process, within the parameters below:

DISCIPLINE . Midriffs (Stomachs) must be covered with clothing,
It is impossible for teaching or learning to take place in a even when arms are raised.
classroom unless good order is maintained. Students are
reminded that they must adhere to a code of good . Girls are not allowed to wear low-cut tops, revealing
inappropriate cleavage.

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. All shirts must have sleeves and/or be a width that For the purpose of definition, the terms “drugs” and “illicit
covers the appropriate areas. drug” shall include, but not be limited to, any and all
inhalants, stimulants and/or herbal stimulants such as
. No underwear, including sports bras and boxer MDMA, Ecstasy, Herbal Ecstasy, Cloud 9, Ultimate
shorts, may be visible. Xphoria, X and Rave Energy, whether or not such
products are available over the counter.
. Skirts, dresses, sweater-tops, and shorts must be I. Possession, use, or under the influence of
modest in length which is at least mid-thigh length.
Drugs/Alcohol on school grounds or at school related
. Pants may not have holes above the knees. activities:
. Safety pins (or other types of pins) may not be used A. Parents or Guardians will be contacted.
B. Students will be suspended, out-of-school, for a
to close holes in garments.
. Pants are to be worn at the waist and sized period of ten (10) days.
C. A report will be filed with the Police authority.
appropriately. Students may be required to wear a D. When the out-of-school suspension is completed,
belt if the pants will not stay up.
. Flannel (pajama type) pants will not be allowed. a conference will be held with the student, his/her
Slippers will not be allowed. parents or guardians, and school authority to
. No clothing displaying language or symbols determine one of the following:
promoting violence, vandalism, sex, Satanism, the 1. The student will enter a district approved
use of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco, or containing
language or symbols degrading any gender, cultural, drug/alcohol abuse program. Students who
religious or ethnic values may be worn. do not successfully complete the program will
. Metal chains, which are connected to any articles of be processed to Step 2.
clothing, belt loops, or wallets and hang loosely from 2. The student will be referred to the Board of
the student’s person, will not be allowed. Education for immediate expulsion.
Upon arrival in the school building, students MUST **A user of drugs/alcohol who requests help
remove their hats. All coats, hats, and headwear before discovery will be offered assistance
must be kept in lockers until the student leaves the without school penalty.
building. Gloves and handwarmers will not be II. Selling, giving, or otherwise providing drugs/alcohol
allowed in the classrooms. on school grounds or at school related activities:
. Temporary hair coloring is prohibited unless there is A. Parents or Guardians will be contacted.
a special dress up day that is announced and B. Student will be suspended, out-of-school, for ten
permission is given. (10) days pending an expulsion hearing by the
Board of Education.
The Principal or the Principal’s Designee has the right to C. A report will be filed with the Police authority.
determine if attire is inappropriate for school or any D. When the expulsion period is completed, student
school activity. Violation of the dress code will result in must agree to enter the district approved
appropriate disciplinary action including but not limited to drug/alcohol abuse program before they will be
the following: enrolled in a new term.
III. Repeat Offenders
 Student changing clothes A. Procedures will be the same as in Section I and
 Parent/Guardian notification II. However, individual decisions will be made in
 Referral each case to help the student and protect the
 Repeat offenses may result in a detention or school from drug/ alcohol abuse.
(Reference Board Policy 7:190)
“other consequence” determined by the site
administrator ELECTRONIC READING DEVICES
Electronic devices whose primary purpose is to replace
Any classes missed while a student rectifies a dress traditional books are allowed at school. (Examples
code violation will be considered an unexcused include iPad, Nook, Kindle, eReader). Devices which can
absence. The Principal or School Counselor has the final be used for this purpose, but as a secondary function, are
say on inappropriate dress. not allowed (smart phones, etc.). Electronic reading
(Reference Board Policy 7:160) devices will not be allowed access to the school district
computer network – any necessary downloads or updates
DRUGS AND/OR ALCOHOL USE OR POSSESSION need to be completed off-campus. The school district is
not responsible for theft or damage to items brought onto
school property. Use of electronic reading devices will be
limited to the sole function of reading – students who use

33

the devices for unapproved activities will have the device situation. A student could receive a detention, in-school
confiscated. The student may pick up the device at the suspension, out-of-school suspension, or expulsion for
end of the school day. After the first offense, a parent or such conduct. In certain cases, charges of assault or
guardian will need to retrieve the item from the office. If battery may be filed with law enforcement. Confrontations
the misuse occurs multiple times, the student may be that resume or recur after being dealt with by school
prohibited from bringing the device to school. Depending authorities remain subject to school discipline, regardless
on the circumstances of the violation, additional of the time or place of the recurrence.
consequences (referrals, detentions) may result.
FOOD AND DRINK
EMERGENCY CLOSING OF SCHOOL All food and beverages (including bottled water) must be
In the event of an apparent emergency closing of school, consumed in the cafeteria only. Students are not allowed
listen to the listed news agencies on your radio. to bring food or beverages into a classroom, nor are they
allowed to walk through the halls consuming or carrying
WZOK - Rockford 97.5 FM open containers of food or beverage. Exceptions will
WGFB-Rockford 103.1 FM include those allowed in advance by the nurse, principal,
WXRX - Rockford-104.9 FM or teacher. If a student is seen with food or beverage in
WROK-Rockford-1440AM the hallway, they will be subject to referrals. Repeat
WSDR-Sterling -1240AM offenders will be subject to more severe consequences,
WSSQ-Sterling- 94.3 FM including referral, after-school detention, Saturday
WRHL-Rochelle-102.3FM detention, or suspension.

The closing may also be listed on local television GRADE REPORTING
WREX - channel 13 (cable channel 3) Byron Middle School teachers will make current grades
WTVO - channel 17 (cable channel 4) available to parents through Skyward on the district web
WIFR - channel 23 (cable channel 5) site. Formal report cards, the official indicator of student
progress and achievement, will be sent to parents at the
Please do not call the school because our phones end of each semester. Semester grades will be calculated
must be kept open for emergency calls. by assessing student work for the entire semester. Final
grades will be determined by combining the result of the
EXPULSION two semester grading periods.
Expulsion from school is action that may only be taken by
the Board of Education for gross disobedience or GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE
misconduct by a student. Once expelled, a student is not All rules and regulations of this school are approved by
permitted to attend school or school functions for the the Board of Education. In the event that a student, parent
duration of the expulsion. Expulsions are exclusion from or guardian, feels that they have not been treated fairly or
school for a period of time greater than 10 school days disagrees with any decision or policy they should take the
but for no longer than two calendar years. Such expulsion following steps:
shall take place only after a review hearing arranged by
the Board of Education. 1. Contact the principal to discuss the grievance.
(Reference Board Policy 7:210) 2. After discussing the grievance with the principal,

FIGHTING if you still are not satisfied, call for an appointment
Fighting in the school building, on the school grounds or with the Superintendent.
in buses is prohibited. Byron School District #226 regards (Reference Board Policy 2:260)
any verbal or physical aggression directed at students or
staff to be fighting. Fighting with, or any assault of, school GUM
personnel or other students, or any use of violence, force, Teachers and staff members have the right to prohibit
coercion, threats, intimidation, fear or other such conduct, gum chewing at any time. Students who dispose of the
or urging other students to engage in such conduct is gum improperly, chew loudly, blow bubbles, etc. will not
strictly prohibited. Pushing, shoving, wrestling, etc. will be be allowed to have gum in the building. If a student is
considered fighting, regardless of the intent. Violators will caught chewing gum at a time when it is not allowed, they
be punished according to the seriousness of each may be subject to referrals. Repeat offenders may be
subject to more severe consequences, including
detention.

HOMEROOM
Every day each student will have a homeroom class. The
homeroom period can be used for a variety of reasons,

34

including: visiting other teachers to seek help or finish 6. The student’s physician shall provide to the
assignments; visiting the library; checking assignment school a written order detailing the necessity for the
notebooks; cleaning and organizing lockers and binders; medication, proper dosage, time, and duration of
participating in special groups or activities; conducting administration. (Original labeled pharmacy containers
class meetings or celebrations. If time allows, students will meet this requirement for short-term medication of no
will be able to work on homework, but students should not more than 7 school days.)
expect to use homeroom time to complete homework on
a daily basis. 7. All student medication, including prescription
medicine, over-the-counter medicines, nutritional
HONOR ROLL supplements, etc., must be left with the school nurse
Byron Middle School will calculate and publish two honor promptly if brought to the school site.
roll listings at the end of each semester. In order for a
student to be listed on the “A” honor roll, he/she must 8. All such medication shall be clearly marked with
receive a letter grade of “A” in all graded subjects. For the student’s name, doctor’s name, contents, and
students to be listed on the “A/B” honor roll, he/she must dosage in the original labeled pharmacy container.
receive a grade of “A” or “B” in all graded subjects. A
grade of “C” or lower will make a student ineligible for any 9. All student medication will be administered by
honor roll recognition. Incomplete course grades will the school nurse whenever possible. However, if the
render a student ineligible for the honor roll until all work school nurse is not available, teachers and school
is completed and a letter grade has been determined. personnel designated by the building principal may
administer student medication.
ILLNESS AND MEDICATION PROCEDURES
1. The Middle School nurse may occasionally be 10. The school nurse may identify circumstances in
called to another building, or may be out of the office for which a student may self-administer medication, either
another reason. Students should report to the main under direct supervision or as an individualized program
office if the nurse is not present. If the office personnel developed by the school nurse.
cannot handle the situation, they will attempt to contact
the nurse. 11. A student with an asthmatic or allergy condition
who is prescribed asthma or allergy medication by a
2. When a student becomes ill, he or she will be physician, or other medical professional authorized to
referred to the school nurse. The nurse will then prescribe asthma or allergy medication under the law,
determine whether the child should be sent home or is may possess and use his/her asthma or allergy
able to stay at school. Parents will be notified before the medication during school or at school sponsored
child is sent home. activities without the supervision of District personnel
provided his or her parent or guardian has so authorized
3. In the absence of an excuse from a doctor for on the Authorization for Administration of Medication
P.E., the school nurse will determine whether or not the form.
child should or should not participate. A doctor’s note will
be required to be excused from P.E. class after 3 days of 12. A record shall be kept of all medication
non-participation. Students who are seeking permission dispensed to students, specifying the time of
to miss P.E. for a day should see the school nurse at 7:50 dispensation, dosage, and reactions noted, and
that morning. supervising personnel.

4. The only medication to be administered at 13. Students may not allow others to carry, possess,
school is medication prescribed by a physician that must or use their prescription or non-prescription medication.
be administered during the school day in order to allow Violation of this rule will result in disciplinary action.
the child to attend school, or where failure to take
prescribed medication could jeopardize the student’s 14. The school reserves the right to examine
health and/or education. students and exclude them when indicated to control
infectious and nuisance diseases such as head lice,
5. The parent or guardian shall provide to the impetigo, scabies, pink eye, etc.
school a written request authorizing the administration of (Reference Board Policy 7:270)
the prescribed medication at school, and stating the
necessity for administering the medication during school 15. Parents are required to submit a Diabetes
hours. Medical Management Plan at the beginning of each
school year and whenever changes are made to the
student’s care plan. This plan is to contain physician
orders for medical management of the student’s
diabetes, and the physician and parent signatures.
Parents are also required to provide emergency contact

35

information to the school, as well as updates if any of the New magazines and periodicals may be borrowed
information changes. overnight; older magazines may be borrowed for 2 weeks.
Overdue books are fined at $.10 per day per item, up to a
If designated in the Diabetes Medical Management Plan, $5.00 maximum fine per item. Overdue magazines and
the student will be allowed to carry their own diabetes periodicals (new) are fined $1.00 per day with a $5.00
equipment and supplies at all times, check and record maximum fine per item. Audio books (CD and Playaway)
blood sugar levels during the day, count carbs consumed require a signed permission slip be on file in library before
and calculate his appropriate insulin dose, administer they may be checked out. Due dates are always on
insulin, discard used equipment properly, be allowed to Wednesdays; renewal of items is encouraged to avoid
carry and eat snacks as necessary during the school day, fines. Lost items are subject to a fine equal to replacement
and carry a fast acting source of carbs or glucagon at all cost plus a $2.00 processing fee. This charge will be
times. The student shall keep the school nurse informed reimbursed, minus overdue fines, should the item be
of any treatment needed for hypo- and hyperglycemia found. Students with library fines are not allowed to
according to the Individualized Health Care Plan borrow additional materials until all fines are paid. It is the
developed and signed by the nurse, parents, and responsibility of the student to return items and/or pay
student. fines promptly. Unpaid fines and/or the charge for lost
books will be assessed at registration if not paid by the
INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS end of the school year.
Parents are entitled to inspect all instructional materials Playaways: May be checked out of the library as needed.
used in connection with any survey, analysis, or Students are allowed to take the playaway device home,
evaluation. Also, no student will be required to submit to and will also be allowed to use them at school. However,
any survey, analysis, or evaluation which reveals the kind the playaway device may only be used at school during
of information specified in 20 U.S.C. § 1232H without prior times when free reading is allowed. Students who misuse
written consent of parents (or consent of student if age 18 the device will lose the opportunity to check them out in
or emancipated). Copies of the law, which is referenced, the future.
are available in the district office for inspection during
regular business hours. LOCKERS - HALLWAY
(Reference Board Policy 6:21)
Each student will be provided with a hallway locker for
ITEMS NOT PERMITTED AT SCHOOL the purpose of storing personal belongings. The locker
Toys, walkie-talkies, squirt guns, laser pens, playing will be equipped with a combination lock with a unique
cards, aerosol containers, and other items deemed to be combination. Students are advised to keep their
disruptive to the educational environment or harmful or combination private, to avoid theft or vandalism. If
inappropriate are not permitted at school or at school- necessary, a student’s combination may be changed.
related activities (unless specifically requested by a staff Students are required to adhere to the following
member for educational purposes). Items of this type may guidelines regarding locker use:
be confiscated by any staff member and taken to the
Principal, where they will be destroyed, donated to 1. The lockers must be kept closed and locked.
charity, or returned to parents upon their request. (also, Students are not allowed to modify the locking
see specific headings on skateboards and portable music mechanism to enable easier access.
devices for more specific restrictions on these popular
items.) 2. Students are not allowed in anyone’s locker
(Reference Board Policy 7:190) other than their own. Also, students are not
allowed to change locker assignments without
LIBRARY approval from the Principal.
Library Use: It is expected that students will respect the
rights of others to use the library media center for quiet 3. Anything found in the locker will be the
study, research, and reading. Abuse of LMC equipment, responsibility of the student to whom the locker
materials, furniture or facility is a serious matter and will is assigned.
result in disciplinary action. Students must compensate
for damage or loss. Computer use in the Library Media 4. The outside of the locker may only be decorated
Center is subject to the school district’s Electronic with school-associated signs or posters. The
Resources/Internet Acceptable Use Policy as well as inside of the locker may be decorated with
posted library media center rules. personal items. However, school personnel may
Circulating Materials: Students may borrow up to 4 require a student to remove a decoration if it is
items at a time. Most books may be borrowed for 2 weeks. deemed inappropriate, or if it interferes with the
operation of the locker.

5. At the end of the school year, or at any point
determined by school personnel, the student will
be required to remove all decorations on the

36

locker, both inside and outside, including residue All rules and guidelines mentioned under the category of
from adhesives used to adhere items to the Hallway Lockers will also apply to the P.E. lockers.
locker surface. If a student fails to empty his/her
locker, or damages/vandalizes the locker in any LOST & FOUND
way, a fine will be assessed to the student. Students who find lost articles are asked to take them to
6. If a locker becomes too cluttered, to the point the office. Lost articles are kept on a lost & found table
where the door does not close completely, the for a short period of time. If they are not claimed within
student will be required to stay after school to a reasonable length of time, the items will either be
clean the locker. If the student refuses to clean discarded or will be given to local charity organizations.
out the locker, school personnel will remove all
the items from the locker and store them in the LUNCH PROGRAM
office. The school offers a well-balanced daily meal. The cost of
7. No food or beverage items (including bottled a lunch ticket is $2.50 per day.
water) are allowed in the lockers (with the
exception of a daily lunch, which must be in a NURSE VISITS
bag or container). Leftover food from lunch must Students will not be allowed to see the school nurse
be taken home or discarded – no food items will without a pass from their teacher. To see the nurse
be allowed in the lockers overnight. between class periods, the student should report first to
their next class, obtain a pass, then go to the nurse’s
Violation of these guidelines may result in the loss of office. During lunch or lunch recess, the students must
locker privileges, and may also lead to referrals, obtain a pass from an adult lunchroom supervisor before
detention, suspension, or expulsion. leaving the cafeteria.

The lockers are school property, and are loaned to the PORTABLE MUSIC PLAYERS
students. To maintain order and security in the schools, Portable music players are not permitted in the hallways
school authorities may inspect and search student or classrooms, unless specific permission is granted by a
lockers, as well as personal effects left therein, without staff member. Students will be allowed to listen to the
notice to or consent of the students, and without a search devices in the cafeteria before school and after school, so
warrant. Lockers are subject to random search at any long as the devices are being used appropriately.
time and individual lockers may be searched for any Possession of these items during the school day (7:45
suspicious circumstance. The school does not recognize a.m. – 2:53 p.m.) is restricted to storage in lockers. The
any right to privacy which a student may wish to claim school district is not responsible for theft or damage to
with regard to the locker. The lockers may also be items brought onto school property. Violation of this
searched if a violation of the locker guidelines is reported policy will result in confiscation of the device. The
or suspected. student may pick up the device at the end of the
school day. After the first offense, a parent or
LOCKERS - P.E. guardian will need to retrieve the item from the office.
Each student will be provided with a locker in the Depending on the circumstances of the violation,
common locker room, for the purpose of storing P.E. additional consequences (referrals, detentions) may
clothes and equipment, and for storing regular clothes result.
and belongings while participating in P.E. The student (Reference Board Policy 7:190)
will also be issued a combination lock, for the purpose of
securing the contents of the locker. Only school issued PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION
locks may be used in the locker rooms. If a student loses The public display of affection, handholding, hugging,
his/her lock, a replacement will be issued and a fee will kissing, etc. will not be permitted in the building, on school
be assessed. grounds, or on school district busses. This rule applies to
same gender and opposite gender students.
The majority of the reports of theft are a result of clothes
and personal belongings being left outside the locker REPORT CARDS
during P.E. class. Therefore, it is important that the Please see GRADE REPORTING.
students always keep their P.E. lockers locked and that
they keep all important belongings inside the locker. RETENTION POLICY
Report a lost lock immediately, so it can be replaced
before a problem occurs.

37

All subjects offered during the three years of middle bike racks. The school district is not responsible for theft
school are important. However, successful completion of of or vandalism to these items. While on school property,
course work in five areas of our curriculum is essential to students must obey the same rules as students on
the students’ probability of doing well in high school and bicycles - skateboards or roller blades are only allowed to
beyond. be used on the bike path next to Colfax Street, and on the
sidewalk alongside the north entrance to the middle
A student must receive a passing grade in each of the school. The opportunity to have skateboards or roller
following subject areas: Language Arts, Writing, blades on school property will be taken away if the student
Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. If a student is seen riding unsafely or inappropriately on school
fails one or more of these core subjects, he/she will not property, either at the middle school, the high school, or
be allowed to advance to the next grade level. The end of Mary Morgan elementary school. Skateboards and roller
the year grade will be determined by averaging the grades blades brought into the building will be confiscated, and
from the 1st and 2nd semester. Therefore, it is essential will be returned to a parent or guardian. Violations of this
that a student put forth a consistent effort throughout the policy may result in referrals, detention, or suspension.
school year in order to receive a passing grade for the
course. SMOKING/TOBACCO/ELECTRONIC CIGARETTES
Students are not permitted to smoke or possess tobacco
A student who fails one or two of the core classes will be in the school building, anywhere on the campus, or on the
offered the opportunity to attend a remediation summer school buses. This ban also includes any form of
school. Successful completion of the summer school electronic cigarette. Students found smoking or in
coursework will allow the student to advance to the next possession of tobacco or electronic cigarettes will be
grade level. Specific information about the remedial given one day of out-of-school suspension; repeat
summer school will be sent to parents/guardians of the offenders will serve a longer period. Parents will be
impacted students. Students who fail more than 2 core notified if an incident should occur, and the local law
classes will be required to be retained in the previous enforcement authorities will also be notified.
grade level. Please feel free to contact the principal, (Reference Board Policy 7:190)
counselor, or any of your child’s teachers at any time
during the school year concerning his/her academic SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS
progress. Our school is fortunate in having capable people to help
(Reference Board Policy 6:280) us whenever our regular teachers are ill or attending
conferences. A substitute teacher is an important
SCHOOL HOURS component of the school staff, and his or her impressions
The building officially opens at 7:45 a.m. each day. of our school will be carried into the community and into
Students arriving at school prior to 7:45 a.m. are required other school buildings. We expect our students to leave
to enter the building and proceed directly to the cafeteria, good impressions by being polite, helpful and
where supervision will be provided until students are considerate, as they would be to their regular teacher.
released at 7:45 a.m. Students will be allowed to see a
teacher or work in the computer lab at 7:30 a.m., but SUSPENSION (OUT-OF-SCHOOL)
students are not allowed to visit their lockers or Students may be suspended from school for a period of
congregate in the hallways. Classes begin promptly at 1-10 days. If a ten-day suspension is necessary, parents
7:55 a.m. and end at 2:53 p.m. Students are expected to could be required to meet with the school board before
leave the building by 3:00 p.m. unless they are under the the student can return to school. When a student is
direct supervision of a staff member. Students arriving suspended out-of-school, he or she is not allowed to be
excessively early or staying late become a supervision on any school property or attend any school sponsored
problem – parents will be contacted if this becomes an events during the term of the suspension. Daily work
issue. missed during an out-of-school suspension must be
turned in the first day back to school following the
SEXUAL HARASSMENT suspension. The work must be handed in to the teacher
See page 15 for a comprehensive description of our anti- at the start of each class period. Work not turned in
bullying initiatives. following this guideline will result in zero credit. The
student must also see ALL of his/her teachers on the first
SKATEBOARDS & ROLLER BLADES day back to school to make arrangements to make up any
Skateboards and roller blades are not permitted inside the tests, quizzes, labs, or other work that could not be
school building, due to a lack of adequate and secure completed at home. Failure to make these arrangements,
storage. Students who bring skateboards or roller blades or to follow the schedule of make ups arranged with the
to school must leave them outside the building, near the teachers, will result in zero credit for the work.

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(Reference Board Policy 7:190; 7:200; 7:230) expected, but we all know what an abused book looks
like.
TARDINESS – DURING THE SCHOOL DAY (Reference Board Policy 6:210)
Students are expected to be in their classes on time.
Tardy students will not be allowed into the classroom THEFT
without a pass. Passes can be written by a teacher or the Theft of school property or property of school personnel
office. Tardies will be considered unexcused if a student or other students is prohibited on school grounds or at
does not have an excused pass, and will result in referrals school-related activities. A student found to be in
being issued. A student who is chronically late for classes possession of a stolen item, either on their person or in
may be issued additional consequences (detentions). his/her locker or personal belongings, will be subject to
the consequences of this policy. Reports of stolen
TARDINESS – START OF THE SCHOOL DAY property received from any school personnel or students
Students are expected to be in their first classroom and will be investigated thoroughly, and may include
ready to start class at 7:55 a.m. If a student arrives late interviews and searches. Consequences for such acts
to school or is not on time to their first class, they will be depend on the extent of the incident, but may include
considered tardy. The student will not be allowed into the referrals, detention, suspension, or expulsion. In addition,
classroom until they have received a pass from the office. the incidents may be referred to local law enforcement
Tardies will be considered unexcused unless they meet authorities.
the criteria for an excused absence (see ABSENCES –
EXCUSED). TRANSPORTATION
Bus riding is a privilege, which carries a responsibility.
TELEPHONES The safety of our students is our most important
The telephone located on the front desk in the main office consideration.
is available for student use. Students will need a pass
from a teacher before being allowed to use the phone. Students who miss the after-school bus will not be
allowed to board the bus at a different school. The
TEXTBOOKS student may choose to wait for the late bus (if available)
All basic texts are loaned to students for their use during or make other arrangements for getting home.
the school year. The students pay for workbooks and
other supplies. Textbooks are to be kept clean and Students must be seated when the bus is moving, and
handled carefully. PLEASE be sure your name, grade, follow the bus driver’s direction at all times. Students are
and school are written in the book in case it is misplaced. expected to follow school rules and will be held
When textbooks are distributed, the students will fill out a accountable for breaking school rules while on the bus.
sheet describing the condition of the book. This Textbook In addition, there are some special rules related to bus
Condition report will be signed by the student, the parent, riding. These are posted in each bus and are summarized
and the teacher, and will be used to determine fines when below:
the book is returned. The following structure of textbook
fines will be used: 1. Be on time at the designated bus stop, stay off the
road and do not move toward the bus until the bus has
$10 Cover damage to the point where it needs to be come to a complete stop. If you must cross the road, do
replaced or rebound so in front of the bus and only after the bus driver signals
to do so.
$5 Cover damage, but does not need to be
replaced 2. Follow directions the first time the driver gives them.

$5 A minimal amount of torn or written-on pages 3. Stay in your seat facing forward.
? Replacement cost - Major damage to the book,
4. Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself and inside
beyond the scope of rebinding. Would also the bus.
include a large number of torn, written-on, or
damaged pages. Replacement cost will be the 5. Remember that loud talking and laughing may distract
cost of a new textbook, not the value of the book the driver. Be absolutely quiet when approaching a
that was damaged. For books older than 5 railroad-crossing stop.
years, the replacement cost will be reduced by
5% per year.

When determining fines, teachers and administrators will
use judgment - a certain amount of wear and tear is to be

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6. Be courteous to fellow students and the bus driver. No longer suspension. If student behavior does not change,
teasing, fighting, inappropriate language, or disrespect the transportation manager will recommend that a
will be tolerated. student be removed from the bus for the remainder of
the school year.
7. Keep books, book bags, packages, coats and all other
objects out of the aisles. Any incident involving gross disobedience or any act that
endangers the safety of the bus or its passengers may
8. Eating, drinking, and gum chewing on the bus is not result in immediate action by the site principal resulting
allowed due to the mess it can create. Drivers may allow in suspension, or even loss of bus privileges for the
students to have water bottles provided they do not cause year, depending on the severity of the incident. Parents
a problem. will be notified by the site principal of any action.

9. Students are expected to help keep the bus neat and Use of Audio/videotaping
clean. Before exiting the bus, students should pick up any District #226 buses are equipped to audio/videotape bus
scraps or garbage left behind. activities. Audio/videotaping is occasionally used to help
monitor bus discipline. Audio/videotapes can be used to
10. Electronic devices (cell phones, music players, etc.) document problems and as evidence in assessing
are allowed on the bus unless they become a distraction disciplinary action. Students have no reasonable
or a nuisance to others. Drivers may instruct students to expectation of privacy.
keep all devices turned off if it becomes a problem.
(Reference Board Policy 4:110; 7:220)
11. Only students assigned to a designated bus route will TRESPASSING ON SCHOOL PROPERTY
be allowed to ride. Exception: Emergencies approved by Middle School students are not allowed to enter Mary
the building principal in writing. Morgan Elementary School or Byron High School until
after 3:10 p.m. Students violating this rule will not be
12. Students are required to exit the bus at their assigned allowed onto the other school properties, in addition to
drop-off point. Exception: Emergencies approved by the receiving consequences which may include after-school
building principal in writing. detentions or Saturday detentions.

13. Observe safety precautions at discharge points. Stay TRUANCY
in your seat until the bus has come to a complete stop. Truancy is defined as a student missing more than 15
Move a safe distance away from the bus and never run minutes of a class for an unexcused reason, leaving class
alongside or back toward the bus. If you must cross the without permission or not returning to class in a
road, do so in front of the bus and only after the bus driver reasonable amount of time, leaving campus without
signals to do so. permission, or skipping all or part of the school day. All
students are expected to be at every class for which they
Consequences Driver warns student of the offending are scheduled. Consequences for each occurrence of
1st Incident: behavior and holds a conference with truancy may include referrals, after-school detention,
the student before the student leaves Saturday detention, or suspension. In addition to the
the bus. Driver logs incident. school consequences, a student may be referred to the
Ogle County Truancy officer. After 9 (nine) unexcused
2nd Incident: Driver assigns student in a front seat absences during the previous 180 days of school
and notifies transportation manager. attendance, a referral to the Ogle County Truancy officer
Length of the assignment will be is required by law. This referral may result in referral to
determined by the driver depending on the courts or the Regional Superintendent of Schools, as
severity of incident and past behavior. described in the District’s policy on truancy.
Parent will be notified by phone and (Reference Board Policy 7:70)
mail by the transportation manager.
VANDALISM
3rd Incident: Suspension of riding privileges Vandalism or intentional damage to or destruction of
recommended by transportation school property or property of school personnel or other
manager to site principal. Length of students, or any attempt to damage or destroy such
suspension depends on severity of property, is prohibited on school grounds or at school-
incident and past behavior. Parents related activities. Consequences for such acts depend on
will be notified by the site principal of the extent of the incident, but may include referrals,
any action taken. detention, suspension, or expulsion. In addition, the

Subsequent incidents during the year may result in a

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incidents may be referred to local law enforcement
authorities.
WATER BOTTLES
Students may have water bottles during the school day.
The containers must have self-closing lids. Students
must fill those containers with water before coming to
school. No flavored packets are allowed in the water
bottle. Teachers and staff members have the right to
prohibit water bottles at any time. Students who use them
improperly will not be allowed to have water bottles in the
building. If a student misuses a water bottle at a time when
it is not allowed, they may be subject to discipline. Repeat
offenders may be subject to more severe consequences,
including detention and they many lose the privilege to
have a water bottle at school.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL ACTIVITIES - GENERAL INFORMATION

ACTIVITIES-ATHLETIC
GIRLS

1. 6th, 7th, & 8th Grade Volleyball from August until last week in October.
2. 6th, 7th, & 8th Grade Cross Country from September through October.
3. 7th & 8th Grade Academic Bowl from October through December
4. 6th, 7th, & 8th Grade Basketball from late January until late March.
5. 6th, 7th, & 8th Grade Track from late March through May.
6. 7th & 8th Grade Cheerleading-November through January.
7. 7th & 8th Grade Pom Pons - November through January.
BOYS
1. 6th, 7th, & 8th Grade Cross Country from September through October.
2. 7th & 8th Grade Academic Bowl from October through December
3. 6th, 7th, & 8th Grade Basketball from late October through January.
4. 6th, 7th, & 8th Grade Wrestling from late January until mid-March.
5. 6th, 7th, & 8th Grade Track from late March through May.

ORGANIZATIONS AND GROUPS

1. Art Club meets from 3:00-5:00 once a month. Any 6th, 7th, and 8th grade student may join anytime
during the year. Meetings are announced ahead of time and students who wish to participate must
sign-up in the office the week before the meeting. A variety of art and craft activities are done
throughout the year. There is also an end-of-the-year field trip for students who attend 3 or more
meetings throughout the year.

2. BUILDERS CLUB - This group is comprised of students who want to take positive constructive action
to build a better world for themselves and others. The members experience the thrill of accomplishment
and the satisfaction of knowing their efforts make a difference for those they help. Its goal is to develop
leadership qualities through experiences in volunteer community service.

3. OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CLUB - This group takes 6 to 8 trips each school year. Past activities included
Skiing, Whitewater Rafting, Caving, Biking, Hiking, Snow Camp, and other adventure-themed outings.

4. POWERHOUSE – The mission of this group is to provide a safe, caring, fun environment in which middle
school students have the opportunity to develop healthy friendships while gaining self-confidence. They
meet twice a month after school, with the meetings consisting of games, snacks, trips, and conversation.
It is open to any middle school student.

5. STEM CLUB - STEM (Science-Technology-Engineering-Math) club typically meets after school until
4:00 P.M. Days of the week and frequency varies based on participants interest and
availability. Activities will vary depending on interest level and commitment. Contact Mr. Kirk for further
details.

6. STUDENT COUNCIL - This group is made up of representatives from each class section, plus a
president. Their function is to perform duties for the school, plan activities and act as a sounding board
between the students and faculty.

7. YEARBOOK - Students showing interest in writing and journalism, along with an advisor, will produce
a yearbook. This will be available in May.

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BYRON ACTIVITIES CODE

I. Practices:
Pre-season practice, Saturday practice, and individual practice during vacation will be scheduled in advance by each individual supervisor.
All students are expected to attend all practices and/or meetings unless arrangements are made in advance with their coach. Punishment
for unexcused absence from practice is the responsibility of the supervisor of each particular activity.
II. Alcohol, Tobacco, and other Illegal Drugs:
Any activity participant who has been drinking, smoking or in the possession of alcohol, tobacco or other illegal drugs, will be denied the
privilege of representing Byron Middle School as a member of an athletic team or activity for the remainder of that sport/activity season
or nine (9) consecutive calendar weeks of the year, depending upon which time period is longer. Violations that occur at the end of the
school year or during a summer will be in effect for a nine (9) week period from the date of the infraction.
As an option to the above stated policy, a student may complete an independent substance abuse evaluation, and the recommended
follow-up anti-drug abuse/alcohol education program through an agency approved by the Board of Education. A student who selects this
option may be required to attend practices with or without participation at the coach's discretion. He/she will be excluded from all
interscholastic competition and performances for a minimum of three weeks. Parent or guardian participation may be required to fulfill
the requirements of the program. Reinstatement to full activity participation will be granted upon successful completion of the course. A
second offense occurring within the same school year (July 1-June 30) will result in a suspension from participation for one calendar year
from the date of the second infraction. The student must have admitted to the violation, or have been reported to the administration by
their parent, or have been apprehended by a Law Enforcement Official, or seen by a member of the coaching staff, teaching staff, or
administration before action will be taken by the school.
III. Appearance:
All participants are expected to dress in a manner that will reflect favorably on the school at all times. Clothes should be neat and clean
at all times. Individual coaches may enforce additional standards of appearance and/or behavior.
IV. Equipment:
Any equipment issued to a participant is the responsibility of that participant. This equipment shall be returned when the activity is
completed. Students will be assessed damage or loss fees for equipment that is abused or lost.
V. Conduct:
It is the obligation of all students or representatives of Byron Middle School in all extra-curricular to practice and promote the highest
principles of sportsmanship and ethics during all activities.
Student-athletes who receive out-of-school suspension will be excluded from all practices and contests, during the period of suspension.
Saturday in-school suspension affects only the period of time on the Saturday during suspension. Individual coaches may choose to
enforce additional penalties for student misbehavior.
VI. Extra-Curricular Policies:
Participants must follow the Extra-Curricular Policy established by the Board of Education.
VII. Eligibility:
Participants must meet the eligibility requirements.

1. Weekly eligibility must be maintained. Students failing more than one class any given week will be ineligible to compete the
following week, Monday through Saturday.

2. An incomplete grade is the same as a failing grade.
3. The student may be removed from extra-curricular activities due to unsportsmanlike conduct, poor behavior and consistent

violations of other rules regarding student conduct. The coaches and other instructors may add other requirements in addition
to those listed as long as they are in keeping with other general policies of the school which have been established by the school
board
Student-athletes who receive out-of-school suspension will be excluded from all practices and contests, during the period of suspension.
Saturday in-school suspension affects only the period of time on the Saturday during suspension. Individual coaches may choose to
enforce additional penalties for student misbehavior.
VIII. Attendance:
Students/athletes are expected to attend a minimum of 4 class periods of the school day to be eligible to practice or participate in athletic
contests or performances.
IX. Concerns:
Concerns should follow a chain of command process with any concerns. (Coach, Supervisor, Activities Director, Principal, Superintendent,
Board of Education).
X. Other:
Coaches may have other rules and regulations for their particular sport, approved by the Activities Principal that will also govern
the students involved in a particular sport/activity.

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