Handbook

• Main Office: 952-975-7300   
• Direction Line: 952-975-7306
• Health Room: 952-975-7370
• Scheduling: 952-975-7324
• Student Management: 952-975-7335
• Attendance: 952-975-7301
• Guidance: 952-975-7330
• Message Nightline: 952-975-7304
• Student Activities: 952-975-7400
• Transportation: 952-975-7500
• Translation Available:
  • Warbixin muhiim ah. Wac Ahmed Noor in laguu turjubaano 952-975-7069.
  • Especialista en Comunicaciones Heriberto Vargas llame al 952-975-7068 para Traducciones Importantes. 

The Mission of Eden Prairie Schools is to inspire each student to learn continuously so they are empowered to reach personal fulfillment and contribute purposefully to our ever-changing world.

We believe that education is important, that teachers are professionals, and that the school is a valid institution of learning. Education provides for physical, emotional, social, and intellectual growth for each unique middle school student. Developmentally, middle school students are in varied stages of physical change and they experience emotional uncertainties including an increasing sense of isolation as well as a need to belong. Intellectually, they eagerly test new skills and knowledge while also seeking security and encouragement. Our school responds with a positive learning environment that provides for individual differences.

In addition, the middle school is a transition between elementary school and high school. CMS offers a nurturing learning environment that encourages growing independence and exploration while students develop habits, attitudes, skills, appreciations, and ideas essential for a lifetime of learning. We provide a caring, exciting, challenging, and comforting environment. We strive to provide a model for responsible adult behavior while allowing for the activity of youthful enthusiasm.

CMS is a vital part of the total community. We encourage a partnership among school, home, and the greater community by encouraging involvement, cooperation, responsibility, and 

communication. CMS empowers its staff to have a substantial impact on the system of learning, and we encourage cooperation, collaboration, innovation, and support among staff members.

The Critical Components of the CMS Program Include:

●      Instructional Excellence:We strive to provide experiences where the atmosphere, materials, pace, and flexibility focus each student on success in learning. We strive to vary content presentation, use the 4Cs of Critical Thinking, Communication, Collaboration and Creativity, and make modifications to meet the unique needs of each student. We recognize students for achievement, growth, leadership, and service.

●      Exploration:We provide a wide range of intellectual, physical, and cultural activities with opportunities to take risks, discover, and experiment. We encourage participatory learning, divergent as well as convergent thinking, and exploration of a variety of co-curricular activities, career options, and subject areas. The CMS staff encourages this belief through the use of innovation and exploration within a 21st Century context of learning.

●      Comprehensive Curriculum:We value the integration of learning in English, math, social studies, science, fine and related arts, and physical education. We recognize, celebrate, and encourage creativity in both basic skills and exploratory learning experiences. We value the process of learning as well as the end result. We encourage continued exploration into new, evolving curriculum.

●      Continual pursuit of personal goals and aspirations:We strive to develop self-directed, lifelong learners who enthusiastically accept the challenge of their future with confidence and competence. Students assume increasing responsibility for their own academic, social, and personal learning. Students learn to solve problems, make decisions, manage time, set goals, work in groups, respond to change, and cope with positive and negative experiences.

●      Contribution to Community (local to global):We encourage and model honesty, responsibility, compassion, cooperativeness, creativity, and competency. We expect students to respect themselves and others, tolerate ambiguity, recognize human equity, and understand global and multicultural concepts. We support positive student involvement in school, home, community, and world projects.

●      Guidance:We are a caring community. We seek to create a more intimate environment attuned to each student’s needs. The focus on creating smaller communities fosters stable, close, respectful relationships with adults and peers. Within the school, teachers, advisors, counselors, support staff, and administrators serve as resources for meeting students’ personal needs. Finally, we recognize that all adults in the school model appropriate behaviors and attitudes.  

Central Middle School offers two flexible 30 minute classes per week. These “Flex” periods give students the choice to select from a menu of Support, Extension, and Discovery options (described below). Students make a new and independent selection for each Flex period. In addition, teachers may invite or schedule students into their Flex offering as needed.

●      Support: This is for students who need support with current or past learning targets and/or skill development. Support could come through direct instruction, collaboration with others, or supported independent work time.

●      Extension: This is for students who would like to delve deeper into the learning targets beyond what was covered in class. 

•    Discovery: These are experiences that are offered based on student passions, interests and/or curiosities not directly linked to standards. Discovery options are purely elective.

Central Middle School serves as a bridge between elementary gifted services and the many advanced and/or enriched offerings at the high school level. As in the elementary schools, CMS offers enrichments and extensions in the regular classroom curriculum. CMS offers enriched classes in four areas--Math, English, Science and Social Studies--for students who are interested in an extra challenge. Prior to registration for each school year, a parent informational meeting about enriched programs is held at CMS.

Other rigorous academic options Include:

Co-Curricular Activities: CMS offers many co-curricular activities to engage gifted learners including academic contests and teams, student government, cultural experiences, music ensembles, arts programs, speech and drama activities, publications, and service groups.

• Mastery of Standards

Central Middle School is committed to providing students with the appropriate course placement. Most often, course placement is determined by previous coursework; however, when prior learning is unclear, students may be assessed on their mastery of standards to determine course placement.

• Additional Opportunities

Qualified students who are above-grade level in particular content areas may take appropriate courses at Eden Prairie High School. Students may have to forgo some desired courses due to differing daily schedules at each school.

• University of Minnesota Talented Youth Mathematics Program (UMTYMP) provides a highly accelerated math program in the evening for exceptional math students. Students in this program will have a study period instead of a math class at CMS. Registration is in the spring. Find more information at http://www.mathcep.umn.edu/umtymp.
• Some students may choose online course options (at their expense) for remediation or acceleration purposes. CMS will accept completion under certain guidelines. For more information, please contact the Gifted Services Coordinator at (952) 975-7342.
• Student Support Plan for Advanced and Enriched Classes

The general expectation for students taking Advanced and/or Enriched courses is that students should earn at least a C- on final term grades. If a student earns below a C-, the expectation is that the teacher and student are in communication about what needs to be done to improve. Teachers should contact parents before the end of the term so that there are no surprises when quarter grades are completed.

If there is no improvement after working with the student and communicating with parents, the GT coordinator should be contacted with relevant information. The GT coordinator will work with the student to create a Contract for Success which will be communicated to the teacher and parents. If no improvement is shown after 2-3 weeks a revised contract will be created with the consequence of a schedule change (exiting the class).

Grades should convey the learning, specifically the mastery of content, done in each class. 

A student’s class grade will be comprised of at least 70% (at a minimum) summative assessments. Summative assessments may include tests, quizzes, end of unit projects, labs, etc. Extra credit will only be given for standards-related learning. 

Redos and retakes are essential to offer to our students. Upon completion of a reasonable proof of practice as determined by each department, teachers will allow students to retake a summative assessment. The retake must be completed within two weeks of the original assessment; however, individual teachers may choose to extend the amount of time on a case-by-case basis. The retake assessment may be an alternate format for demonstrating mastery of content. Any retake is worth 100% value.

Students receive quarterly letter grades for their performance. Parents/guardians can see students’ current letter grades through the CMS online portal as well as at conferences. The letter grades are determined in each class as follows:

• A: 93-100%

• A-: 90-92%

• B+: 87-89%

• B: 83-89%

• B-: 80-82%

• C+: 77-79%

• C: 73-76%

• C-: 70-72%

• D+: 67-69%

• D: 63-66%

• D-: 60-62%

• F: 0-59% 

CMS recognizes academic achievement with an A and B Honor Roll. A student’s grade point average (GPA) is used to determine placement on the A and B honor rolls as follows:

• A: 4.0

• A-: 3.7

• B+: 3.4

• B: 3.0

• B-: 2.7

• C+: 2.4

• C: 2.0

• C-: 1.7

An average of 3.7 or better will be recognized on the A honor roll. An average of 3.0-3.69 will be recognized on the B honor roll.

The “Student of the Month” program recognizes approximately 35 students each month for their overall performance at CMS. These students will have their pictures placed in a display case in the 200 hall, and a letter explaining the honor will be sent to their parents/guardians. A student of the month breakfast is held three times per year to celebrate their achievement.

Central Middle School believes that it is essential for middle school students to develop good study and homework habits. The school also believes parents/guardians can play a vital role in this area. In all subjects, at some time, students will have homework. Homework might consist of a writing assignment, preparing for a test, reviewing, reading, and/or research. Students will have homework regularly in math, English, and world language.

If a student uses someone else’s words or ideas in his/her work, the source must be acknowledged by the use of complete, accurate, and specific references. Any form of academic dishonesty whether it involves copying someone else’s work or allowing someone else to copy your own work will result in loss of credit and/or disciplinary action. This includes the transmission of and/or sharing of digital work as well.

We strongly recommend all CMS students use a POWER binder to assist with organization throughout the year.  We require use of a binder so students have a systematic way to keep track of resources and learn important organizational skills.  We also strongly recommend that students use a planner (traditional or digital) and the organizational tools found in their Schoology account.  These tools have two purposes: to help students learn organizational skills and to improve communication between home and school.

Success Center is an after-school academic center open Monday – Thursday from 2:20-3:50 p.m. that supports students through homework help. Success Center offers a quiet, structured environment after school in which a teacher supervises students working independently. Students may make up a test, use reference materials for research, or complete daily assignments.

●      Students must arrive by 2:20 p.m. They must have a pass from a staff person if they arrive late.
●      Students may have a snack (no beverages please).
●      Activity bus passes will be issued at 3:50 for those students riding the 4:00 bus. For those students who need to leave early, a note with parental permission is required.
●      Only students who are following directions, working productively, and behaving respectfully will be allowed to stay in the Success Center.

Targeted Services helps students acquire and master basic skills such as math, reading, writing, organization, time management, and test taking. Students who wish to attend will be enrolled and expected to attend at least one day per week and can attend up to four days per week. Students will receive instruction in academic and task management skills.

Central Middle School students and staff members are divided into teams. We have four seventh grade teams and four eighth grade teams. We designate each team by color with each having about 150-180 students and seven to nine teachers. Randomly placed on teams by their elective choices, students remain on their team the entire year. Teaming exists for several reasons. It creates a feeling of being in a small group within a large school. Staying with the same teachers all year helps teachers know students better and vice versa. Team teachers plan together and discuss student progress. We encourage parents/guardians to call team teachers with questions and concerns. 

The district has the ability to call and email all district families. In order to help ensure that you receive these important messages, please go to www.edenpr.org and make sure that we have the correct email address and phone numbers for us to use. Log in using your username and password and click “edit profile.” Contact us with questions at (952) 975-7094 or helpline@edenpr.org. 

Families with students attending Eden Prairie Schools receive print and electronic publications from the district. To ensure you’re receiving electronic newsletters from the district and CMS, log onto the district website, www.edenpr.org. After logging in, click “edit profile” to update your email address in our system.

If parents need to contact students during the school day, they should call CMS at (952) 975-7300 rather than calling or texting their child’s cell phone. Students are not allowed to receive or make cell phone calls or send text messages during the school day. Parents can get a message to their student by calling the main office. If students are observed using their cell phones during the school day, the phone will be confiscated, and parents/guardians of the student will be responsible for picking up the phone.

Items that are dropped off in the office for a student should be marked with the student’s name. We will not interrupt class for deliveries. Students should pick up these items during passing time. Students are not allowed to receive food purchased from outside vendors during the school day.

Email is one of the most cost-effective, timely, efficient ways for your teacher, principal, and the district administration to communicate with families. To ensure that we have your current email address, log onto the district website, www.edenpr.org and click “edit profile.”

District families will be notified of any emergency school closures through the emergency phone system and district emails. If you don’t see or hear any announcement, assume that school will be in session.

Additional Resources:
Website: www.edenpr.org
Radio: WCCO radio (830 AM)
Phone: (952) 975-7000
TV Channels: 4, 5, 9, and 11

If school is dismissed early, students will be told to go home on their regular buses – please be sure your student has a backup plan in place. Students may not remain at school. If school is dismissed early, the building will be closed for after-school and evening activities (such as sports, PTO meetings, and community education classes). If your student goes to an after-school program at a location other than school, please check with them regarding their closing policy. Again, have a backup plan in place.

Students and parents have access to student information by logging onto the district website, www.edenpr.org. Within that website, the following student information is available: attendance, grades, final report cards, and unofficial transcripts. If there are problems logging into the website call 952-975-7094 or email helpline@edenpr.org. In addition, our CMS website, www.edenpr.org/cms allows you to stay in closer contact with our school. Information available on-line includes general information, teacher web pages, supply lists, calendars, lunch menus, newsletters, parent involvement opportunities, etc.

Eden Prairie Schools recognizes the importance of parents/guardians and teachers working together. Students and their parents/guardians will have opportunities to meet with teachers during the school year. Conferences are held in the fall and the spring. During the conferences, students/parents will be able to meet multiple teachers to discuss their child’s progress. At the conference students may also develop a plan for improvement.  Please note, we encourage families not to wait for conferences to discuss serious concerns; instead, please contact your student’s teacher or advisor sooner rather than later to begin finding solutions.  

Each team plans a Curriculum Night in September. At Curriculum Night teachers share information about various ways the school communicates with parents, teachers make presentations about the curriculum, and families have the opportunity to meet the teachers.

As a community of learners, CMS parents, teachers, and students work together to build a positive learning environment. Communicating with students and parents about student progress, school events, and classroom activities builds and maintains the learning environment. All Central Middle School staff respond to requests for information and assistance in a timely and professional manner. Here are some tips for communicating effectively with teachers:

●      Utilize email and voicemail whenever possible to contact teachers; you can expect a response within one working day.
●      Call the teacher in advance to schedule a face-to-face meeting. 
●      Strive to resolve a conflict directly with a teacher first; you are welcome to contact building administration if you are dissatisfied with the resolution.

Each classroom teacher and student utilizes Schoology, a Learning Management System (LMS) that helps organize course content including: assignments, course resources, tests, quizzes, etc. Teachers may include more specific information regarding their class activities, homework, links to the internet and other information in Schoology as well. Teachers and students will set expectations about how to use Schoology at the beginning of the year.  We encourage parents to enroll in Schoology too as it is another way to be informed about your student’s education.

Because of space and safety concerns, students are not allowed to carry backpacks during the school day. Students may use a backpack to transport books and belongings to and from school. Backpacks must remain in lockers between 7:45 a.m. and the end of the day. Handbags smaller than a school textbook may be carried at school. Exceptions to this policy may be granted to students with special circumstances. Check with the Student Management Office if circumstances warrant special permission to carry a backpack or larger handbag.

The counseling department provides individual, group, and crisis counseling. Students are referred via teachers, parents/guardians, friends and/or self. Counselors deal with a multitude of issues pertaining to students’ adolescent development. Some of these issues may include depression, eating disorders, conflict resolution, healthy relationships, stress management, and school success. If parents or students need information, support, or skill-building during the year, please consult the team counselor. 

Please also note “Outside Resources for Teens” under the Health section of this handbook.

Central Middle school encourages students to take pride in their attire as it relates to the school setting. Students should dress in a manner that, in addition to the following guidelines, takes into consideration the educational environment, safety, health and welfare of self and others. Students’ clothing must not become a distraction to the educational environment. Below is a list of examples of things not allowed in school. This list is not all-inclusive. Final decisions on student dress code will be made by building administrators.

1. Wearing shorts that are an inappropriate length, shirts with bare midriff or shirts with shoulder straps less than 2 inches (i.e. tank tops) are not acceptable.
2. Going barefoot, wearing slippers, or wearing pajamas is not acceptable.
3. Hats, gloves, sunglasses, and jackets are not allowed during the school day. Students must store these items in their lockers.
4. Clothing with obscene language or symbols, or symbols of drugs, tobacco, sex, alcohol, or gang references are expressly prohibited. Profane or defamatory jewelry or writing on clothing, notebooks or folders is not acceptable.
5. Items considered to be culturally, racially or gender insensitive are unacceptable.
6. If necessary, parents/guardians may be called to bring appropriate clothing to school.

Students may have cell phones at school as long as they are kept turned off and out of sight during the school day. Students aren’t allowed to use personal devices at school unless they are explicitly invited to do so by a staff member for educational purposes. If a cell phone becomes a distraction in any school environment, it will be confiscated and returned to the parent/guardian of the student. Failure to comply will result in further action. CMS is not responsible for lost or stolen cell phones. We do provide phones in each of our classrooms that students may use before and after school. If you need to contact your student during the school day, please call the main office, and we will contact him or her or relay a message. Please do not call your student’s cell phone during the day. The electronic item policy and expectations still apply if students are talking with family members.

Some bus drivers allow use of iPads and cell phones on the bus. If students have permission to use these items on the bus, they will need to store them out of sight during the day. If students store valuable items in their lockers, they assume any risk of theft that may result.

Students will be informed of the expectations for their school issued iPad. If a student violates these expectations, a consequence will be assigned.

Field trips provide a positive learning experience that takes place outside the walls of the regular classroom. A field trip accomplishes or reinforces an identifiable academic, social, emotional, or physical goal/outcome that is limited to middle school curriculum or philosophy. Planning considerations will include:

●      Consistency and timing between teams
●      Balance in curricular area and outcomes such as an academic experience, cultural awareness, community service, real life experience, and team building
●      Identified insights and experiences not otherwise available in the classroom

Field trips effectively use all resources available including:

●      Financial
●      Opportunity cost (field trip benefit vs. missed class time)
●      Allocation of time
●      Consideration of facility space available

All field trips will be determined by the teachers on a student’s team based on the field trip guidelines. As a result, field trips throughout the school year will be uniquely different from team to team in both content and dates.

Food and drinks other than water are not allowed in hallways. Teachers can use their discretion as to whether to allow food and/or gum in their classrooms.  

Students will be assigned a locker with a combination lock. Students and their advisors are the only people who should know a student’s combination. It is a student’s responsibility to keep his/her locker closed and locked when not using it. Under no conditions should a student change lockers or use someone else’s locker. Students will be assigned lockers according to their team so that they will be located in close proximity to their classes. Students shouldn’t try to go to their lockers between every class. Instead, take books and materials for several classes at once, eliminating frequent visits to lockers. Advisors will provide guidelines for the use of tape, standards of cleanliness and care, and posting of pictures or other materials that may constitute harassment.

The best way to prevent locker theft is to lock lockers. Students should not share a combination or locker with anyone (even a friend). Lockers are provided for student convenience but are not to be considered secure. Therefore, students should not leave items of value in their lockers unless they are willing to accept the risk of loss. School lockers are the property of the school district. School authorities may conduct inspections of lockers for any reason and at any time without notice or consent. If a student defaces or damages a locker, he or she will be responsible for cleaning it or paying for damages. More information can be found under the Search Policy heading in this handbook.

Students are only allowed to decorate for birthdays before school from 7:30-7:40 a.m. or after school from 2:15-2:30 p.m. Locker decorating must be contained to the individual locker and not be on surrounding areas. Decorations must be school appropriate and not include balloons.

A Physical Education locker will be assigned to students during the quarter they have Phy. Ed. The same rules that exist for a regular locker apply to the Phy. Ed. locker as well.

If students find a lost item, they should turn it into the main office. Students may claim lost articles in the Lost and Found across from the main office. Please remember that valuable items should not be brought to school.

Each morning, students may purchase a grab-and-go breakfast in the cafeteria. Students who choose to purchase a grab-and-go breakfast will eat their breakfast before 7:50 or during Advisory time at the beginning of the day.  

Students can either bring a lunch from home or purchase a lunch at school with milk included. School lunch choices include the daily menu, soup and sandwich, or soup and salad. A student bringing a lunch from home can purchase milk. Reduced price and free breakfasts and lunches are available for those that qualify. For more information about this program, please call (952) 975-8055. Lunch menus are available online.

Each student is assigned an account with a personal identification number (PIN). Lunches will be paid for by a student entering the PIN on a keypad at the end of the serving line and saying their first and last name to the cashier. Families must pay for meals in advance by sending a check to school payable to Eden Prairie Schools or using the online Fee Pay system for parents to add funds to student meal accounts. It is the same system used to pay activities fees, sports fees, and transportation fees. Parents log into the parent portal to access this system and their student’s meal account. If you have questions or need help with logging into the portal, please call the parent helpline at (952) 975-7094. Money remaining in a student’s account at the end of the year will be transferred to the next year’s account, even if they are moving on to a different Eden Prairie School.

Lunch is a scheduled period for each student. Tardies to lunch or skipping lunch will carry the same consequence as being tardy or truant from class. The same school rules regarding hats, coats, cell phones, or electronic devices apply in the lunchroom as in the classroom and all other parts of the building. iPads are not allowed in the lunchroom.

 Rules:

●      Keep hands, feet, and objects to self.
●      Follow directions from both kitchen and lunchroom staff.
●      Do not cut in line.
●      Stand in line only if buying a meal.
●      Please keep money in student accounts as they are not allowed to charge.
●      Be on time.
●      Students are not allowed to leave the lunchroom without permission.
●      Be responsible for keeping table and surrounding area clean.
●      Return to seat and stay seated after disposing of your garbage.

The Lunchroom Supervisors and/or the Student Management Office will determine consequences for inappropriate behavior in the cafeteria.

Parents/guardians who wish to eat lunch with their child should pre-arrange a day in advance by calling the front desk receptionist (952-975-7300).

The CMS school store is located adjacent to the cafeteria. The store is open Mondays and Wednesdays at lunch. Students may purchase quality merchandise, such as school supplies, at reasonable prices. 

Students are not allowed to sell anything at school for personal profit. Any other marketing ventures must be approved by the CMS administration.

Due to COVID-19 and social distancing requirements, transportation schedules may need tone altered. As such, school start and dismissal times may vary slightly. Please see school start and end times on the school website. 

At orientation in August, students will have a picture taken for a school ID and will receive the ID by the end of September. Students should carry their current school ID with them at all times. You will need your ID to borrow books from the library, ride the activity bus, and present to staff whenever asked. If students lose their school ID, they may purchase a new one in the Media Center for $3.

Students will be issued an iPad at the beginning of the school year to use for academic purposes. Students and parents will sign an iLearn Agreement outlining the school district policies for appropriate iPad use. While at school, students are not allowed to use games and/or social media or non-educational apps as the iPad is to be used as an educational tool. Students and families will be expected to be in compliance with all iLearn rules and guidelines while in possession of the school issued device. Students who violate the rules and guidelines of the iLearn Agreement will be subject to school consequences.

●      Engaging and relevant learning experiences and development of life skills
●      Learning experiences that encourage cooperation, collaboration, and innovation
●      Use current technology to create, research, communicate and produce academically sound products
●      Demonstrate respect, self-control, ethical behavior and empathy as classmates and members of our communities
●      Being responsible citizens in our schools and communities, as well as the digital world

Being a responsible citizen in our schools, communities and the digital world requires responsibilities adapted for a changing world. We embrace the following conditions of being a digital citizen:

• Respect yourself. I will select names that are appropriate. I will consider the information and images I post online.
• Protect yourself. I will protect my personal details, contact details or a schedule of my activities.
• Respect others. I will NOT use technology to bully or tease other people.
• Protect others. I will protect myself and others by reporting abuse, and not forwarding inappropriate or harmful materials or communications.
• Respect & protect intellectual property. I will suitably use and cite and all content use intellectual property (websites, books, media, software, etc.) according to the copyright or creative commons licensing.

Access to Eden Prairie Schools’ owned technology is a privilege and not a right. At any point access to devices, internet and the like can be revoked.

As listed below, but not limited to:

Personal Safety

Do not send any message that includes your personal information such as: home address, personal phone numbers and/or last name for yourself or any other person. Do not send information regarding your schedule (where you are/will be, timing, dates, etc.). Do not send any inappropriate or sexually suggestive picture of yourself or others.

Password Protection
Never share your password, steal or use another person’s password. If a password is lost or compromised the student or teacher should call the technology Help Desk. A technology support specialist will help resolve the password issue.

Privacy
Students and families need to know that files stored on school computers are not private. Network and Internet access is provided as a tool for educational purposes only. Eden Prairie Schools (EPS) has the right to monitor, inspect, copy, review, and store at any time, without prior notice, any and all usage of the computer network and Internet access including transmitted and received information. All information files are the property of EPS and no user shall have any expectations of privacy regarding such files. 

Online Etiquette
Follow the guidelines of accepted behaviors within your schools’ handbook. Use appropriate language and graphics. Swearing, vulgarities, suggestive, obscene, belligerent, harassing, threatening or abusive language of any kind is not acceptable. Do not use this device to make, distribute or redistribute jokes, stories, to bully anyone, or pass along obscene material or material which is based on slurs or stereotypes relating to race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, religion or sexual orientation.

Blogging and/or Podcasting
Use of blogs, podcasts or other Web 2.0 tools are considered an extension of the classroom. Whether at home, or in school, any speech that is considered inappropriate in the classroom is also inappropriate in all uses of blogs, podcasts or other Web 2.0 tools. 

Plagiarism/Copyright/Licensing
Plagiarism is the act of using someone else’s words or ideas as your own. Students are required to give proper credit to all Internet sources used in academic assignments, whether quoted or summarized. This includes all forms of media on the Internet, such as graphics, movies, music and text. Plagiarism of Internet resources will be treated in the same manner as any other incidences of plagiarism, as stated in this handbook. In addition, students must adhere to the copyright laws of the United States (P.L 94-553) and the Congressional Guidelines that delineate it regarding software, authorship and copying information. All students should also adhere to the Creative Commons licenses where the author/artist denotes what media may be shared, remixed or reused.

Proxies
The use of anonymous proxies to get around content filtering is strictly prohibited and is a direct violation of district policy.

Accessing/Posting Inappropriate Material
Accessing, submitting, posting, publishing, forwarding, downloading, scanning or displaying materials (including photos of students and staff) that are defamatory, abusive, obscene, vulgar, sexually explicit, sexually suggestive, threatening, discriminatory, harassing and/or illegal is a violation of district policy.

Photos and Video
Students are not to take pictures or videos of staff or students without staff permission. Any student use of cameras in Eden Prairie Schools should be part of a class or club activity. Unapproved camera use is a violation of district policy.

Posting Disruptive Videos/Photos
Students must not make or disseminate (while on or off school property) recordings, photographs, or videos of other students or individuals, including school employees, if the recording will substantially disrupt and interfere with the work and discipline of the school, or the ability of a student to attend school or participate fully in its activities. Any making or dissemination of a recording must not disrupt the civil and respectful atmosphere toward teachers, other employees, and students alike. Recordings that are considered disruptive include, but are not limited to, recordings that are demeaning, derogatory, or sexually suggestive toward a student or employee.         

This policy applies to District-issued and personal devices that are used to make the recording. 

Malicious Use/Vandalism
Any malicious use, disruption or harm to the school unit's technology, networks and Internet services, including but not limited to hacking activities and creation/uploading of computer viruses, is a violation of district policy.

No student shall obtain or try to obtain other students’ accounts, files, and/or data. Students are NOT to remove or attempt to remove or circumvent the management system or modify the operating system and software installed on each iPad. Using or possessing hacking software is a violation of this agreement. Students who attempt to hack or “jailbreak” any EPS iPad will be in violation of district policy.

Tech Support
If technical difficulties arise with the iPad, or non-conforming content is discovered, the iPad will be restored by Tech staff. If the Technology staff needs to restore the iPad, the District is not responsible for the loss of content put on the iPad by the student.

iPad General Precautions

●      The iPad is Eden Prairie Schools’ property.
●      The iPad must remain free of any writing, drawing, stickers, or labels that are not issued and placed onto the device by EPS staff.
●      Cords and cables must be inserted carefully into the iPad to prevent damage.
●      Never expose an iPad to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or prolonged periods of time in rooms that are not at a normal room temperature.
●      iPads must be kept in a secure location at all times; it is the student’s responsibility to know where their iPad is at all times. Do NOT leave unsupervised or lend to friends or family members outside of your home. During times when the iPad is not needed, place the iPad in a secure location within the classroom.

iPad Cases

Acknowledging the importance of a protective case for the iPad, Eden Prairie Schools invested in purchasing protective cases for all of the iPads. iPads need to be in the EPS issued protective case.

●      The iPad should ALWAYS be in its protective case, including the screen protector.
●      The iPad should be charged (EPS provides a charger) and brought to school ready to use each day.
●      Do NOT place your iPad in a book bag that contains food, liquids, heavy or sharp objects.

iPad Screen & Cleaning

●      The screens are sensitive to pressure and therefore can be damaged; they are scratch resistant, not scratch proof.
●      The screens are made of glass and can either break or shatter.
●      Do NOT use liquids to clean the iPad. This includes, but is not limited to: window cleaners, household cleaners, aerosol sprays, solvents, alcohol, ammonia, or abrasives.
●      PLEASE USE: A soft, dry cloth or anti-static cloth.

iPad Care

●      Only labels or stickers approved and placed onto the iPad by EPS staff are acceptable.
●      Never leave an iPad unattended. It is your responsibility to keep your iPad stored in a safe, secure, temperature appropriate space.
●      Do NOT dismantle or attempt to repair the internal workings of the iPad or the iPad case.
●      If your iPad is not working, take your iPad to the Media Center as soon as possible and have EPS technology support specialist examine it. If your iPad needs to be worked on for an extended period of time, you will be issued a temporary iPad until yours is working properly.

Earphones
Eden Prairie Schools does not provide earphones; however, they are requested as part of the school supply list.

●      Earphones shall not be used within or on school property unless a teacher specifically requests or allows students to do so.
●      If allowed to use earphones, the appropriate level is when only the person wearing the earphones can hear the sound.

Storing Documents
There will be limited storage on the device and academic files take priority over personal. Several backup options exist to cloud storage or personal computers. Students should back up their files.

Applications and Content
Students, with the support and permission of parents, may install apps or other content having an educational purpose on their iPad. Applications or content that does not have an educational purpose and is disruptive to the educational process or at home will be removed from the device. 

Student Discipline
If a student violates any part of the above policy, he/she will be subject to disciplinary action. The disciplinary action for a violation may include restrictions for downloading apps, checking the iPad in and out of school each day, having all iPad privileges revoked, or other actions deemed appropriate.

In instances where the student has put his/her own safety or the safety of others at risk (i.e. bullying), iPad privileges will be revoked immediately.

We understand that instances of damage, destruction, or loss of the assigned iPad may occur. These instances will be dealt with on a case-by case basis. Incidents of gross negligence or repeated incidents may result in financial restitution from the family, up to the cost of the entire device if warranted. If the device is damaged beyond repair or lost the cost of replacement is $400.00. Samples of approximate repair and replacement cost of individual parts are listed below. If there is damage that can be repaired the student will be charged for the actual cost of repair. 

●      Replacement iPad - $400
●      iPad Brick - $13
●      iPad Cable - $7
●      iPad Glass Damage - $150
●      iPad Case Replacement - $32 

Philosophy of Behavioral Expectations for Adults and Students

Adults will:

1. Create a balanced approach for all learning
2. Create a climate for learning that includes:

●      Opportunities for students to explore and construct their learning through choice, practice, trial, error, and reworking
●      Knowing the students culturally, and individually, by being fully cognizant of their strengths and interests
●      Co-creating classroom routines and procedures that maximize learning bell-to-bell
●      Creating a climate that respects difference and allows for multiple perspectives without hurting others
●      Fostering opportunities for students to determine responsibility in meeting academic, social, and emotional expectations in monitoring their self-control

Students will:

1. Participate fully in the learning experience, including curricular, co-curricular, and extracurricular activities, from the moment s/he is on the bus until s/he is returned home, at all district activities and events.
2. Participate actively in the learning experience by being fully engaged, fully prepared, raising engaging questions, and effectively and positively communicating with all students and staff.
3. Participate actively in the learning experience by sharing information about themselves—strengths, weakness, and culture to create common bonds in curricular, co-curricular, and extracurricular activities.
4. Participate actively in the learning experience by respecting differences while asserting perhaps a divergent viewpoint, doing so without harm to the other students, staff, and property.
5. Demonstrate empathy (knowing others) to build fruitful relationships that create a cohesive learning opportunity for all and through self-control behave in an ethical manner from the moment s/he is on the bus until s/he is returned home.

If a student demonstrates a lack of responsibility, respect, empathy or self-control and disrupts the learning of other students, adults may:

●      Re-direct, work with and ensure that student fully understands the expectations
●      Create an accountability system with the student and parent/guardian with clear consequences or processes for resolution for additional violations
●      Work in partnership with family, students, staff and other significant adults to determine additional strategies and/or consequences
●      Refer to peer mediation, conflict resolution or other proven processes
●      Determine if there are extenuating physical, emotional or mental challenges
●      Submit referral as deemed necessary
●      Remove from class, suspend, or expel

Central Middle School will foster a partnership with students, staff, and parents to establish clear expectations for respect of self, others, and school in order to create a safe, secure environment in which everyone can learn. We strive to work with students regarding their behavior in a respectful manner that strengthens students and helps them be responsible, respectful, and self-directed learners.

 

In order to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment, the following guidelines regarding student behavior will be followed. These are guidelines only and do not include all possible student offenses. See Eden Prairie School District Policy 506.7. The School District retains the right to suspend or expel a student or impose other disciplinary action at their discretion, based on the severity of behavior, the facts, circumstances, and nature of a student offense and the student’s disciplinary record.

1. Abuse, Verbal or Written
   The use of language or actions that are obscene, intimidating or that degrades other people or incites other people is prohibited.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Expectations review. (unless sexual or racial abuse/threats--see #18 below), restorative mediation, parent/guardian contact.
b. Second Offense: Expectations review and ISS, restorative mediation, parent/guardian meeting.
c. Third Offense: Up to 5-day suspension. Parent/guardian meeting.

2. Academic Integrity
   Plagiarism and cheating are not allowed in our educational environment. Honesty and integrity are essential to excellence in education.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Parent/guardian contacted by teacher, loss of privileges. Plan for success developed in partnership with teacher.
b. Second Offense: Parent/guardian contacted by teacher, documentation, loss of privileges, in school.
c. Third Offense: Administrative conference to determine next action.

3. Activity Bus
Students must demonstrate appropriate behaviors on the school activity bus.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Dean conference, parent/guardian contact
b. Second Offense: Dean conference, parent/guardian contact, possible bus suspension, detention.
c. Third Offense: Dean conference, parent/guardian meeting, bus suspension.
d. Additional offenses will result in more lengthy bus suspension.

4. Alcohol/Chemicals, Possession, Use or Under the Influence of
The possession, use, distribution, delivery, transfer, sale or purchase of any controlled substance at school is strictly prohibited.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Up to 3-day suspension, confiscation, police referral, chemical health referral.
b. Second Offense: Up to 5-day suspension, police referral.
c. Third Offense: Suspension pending review by school & district administration for recommendation for expulsion. Police referral.

5. Attendance/Unexcused
Students are expected to be in school and in each class unless otherwise excused by a staff member or parent/guardian. Refer to the Attendance Section below for more details as well as guidelines for potential consequences.

6. Bullying/Cyberbullying

***Bullying defined:

Intimidating, threatening, abusive, or harming conduct that is objectively offensive and:

a. There is an actual or perceived imbalance of power between the student engaging in prohibited conduct and the target of the behavior and the conduct is repeated or forms a pattern; or
b. materially and substantially interferes with a student's educational opportunities or performance or ability to participate in school functions or activities or receive school benefits, service, or privileges.

***Cyberbullying defined:
bullying using technology or other electronic communication, including, but not limited to, a transfer of a sign, signal, writing, image, sound, or data, including a post on a social network Internet website or forum, transmitted through a computer, cell phone, or other electronic device. This includes use of electronic technology and communications off the school premises to the extent such use substantially and materially disrupts the school environment or interferes in a student’s educational opportunities or performance or ability to participate in school functions or activities or receive school benefits, services or privileges.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Possible Suspension or ISS. Restorative Practice/Mediation.
b. Second Offense: Up to 3-day suspension. Restorative Practice/Mediation. Parent meeting
c. Third Offense: Up to 5-day suspension. Parent meeting. Possible referral for expulsion.

7. Cell Phones
Cell phone use during the school day is prohibited unless permission is otherwise granted by a staff member. The use of cell phones or other video recording devices in bathrooms and locker rooms is strictly prohibited.

 

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Conference with Dean, confiscation of phone.
b. Second Offense: Phone to be picked up by parent/guardian.
c. Third Offense: Phone to be picked up by parent/guardian, parent/guardian meeting.

8. Disruptive Behavior
Disruptive behavior at school locations or at school sponsored activities is prohibited. Disruptive behavior means acts that disrupt, interfere with or threaten to disrupt the educational process or school functions, including, but not limited to horseplay, disobedience, disrespectful behavior, inappropriate language, instigating a school disruption, discrimination or defiance of authority, or failure to report any of the aforementioned behaviors. Disruptive behavior includes insubordination. Insubordination is defined as: Deliberate refusal to follow an appropriate direction given by a staff member.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Up to 1-day dismissal from class or activity and mediation.
b. Second Offense: Up to 3-day dismissal from class or activity, possible ISS, conference with teacher, parent/guardian meeting.
c. Third Offense: Referral to MTSS team for additional support and intervention.

9. Dress and Grooming

Dress and grooming that is disruptive or potentially disruptive to the educational process is prohibited, including, but not limited to, the following:

a. Wearing clothing that includes words or pictures which are obscene, vulgar, abusive, discriminatory, racist, sexist or otherwise degrading or sexually suggestive or which promote or advertise alcohol, chemicals, tobacco or any other product that is illegal for use by minors.
b. Wearing clothing and other items or grooming in a manner that represents and/or promotes threat/hate groups or supremacist groups is prohibited.
c. Wearing clothing that does not cover shoulders, midriff, chest, or buttocks. Clothing that does not cover undergarments, and undergarments that are worn as outer garments.
d. Wearing short shorts and short skirts, see-through pants and shirts are prohibited.
e. Wearing a face mask, hood, sunglasses or wigs in school that would not allow the student to be identified is prohibited.
f. Wearing or carrying any headwear, except for legitimate religious or medical reasons during the day without permission from school administration is prohibited. Headwear is defined as any object which covers one’s head, all or in part, including but not limited to bandanas, headbands, hats, hoods, and do-rags.

 

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Education of policy, warning, and removal or confiscation of item, change of clothing (if applicable).
b. Second Offense: Item confiscated/removed, change of clothing (if applicable) and parent/guardian contacted.
c. Third Offense: All of above and parent/guardian meeting.

10. False Emergency Alarm
Intentionally giving a false alarm of a fire or tampering or interfering with any fire alarm is prohibited. False 911 reporting from any school phone is prohibited.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Up to a 5-day suspension pending review by school & district administration for recommendation for expulsion, and police referral.

11. Fighting/Assault
Engaging in any form of fighting (regardless of who initiated the fight), assault, or inciting a fight/assault is prohibited. Fighting/assault includes, but is not limited to, hitting, slapping, pulling hair, biting, shoving, pushing, kicking, scratching or any other acts in which a student intentionally inflicts or attempts to inflict bodily harm on another person.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Up to 3-day suspension. Referral to School Social Worker. Mediation. Possible police referral. When appropriate teacher notification pursuant MN statute 121A.64.
b. Second Offense: Up to 5-day suspension. Referral to School Social Worker. Mediation. Police referral. When appropriate teacher notification pursuant MN statute 121A.64.
c. Third Offense: Up to 10-day suspension and possible referral to district administration for expulsion.

12. Littering/Lunchroom
Out of respect to our maintenance staff, the school, and to each other, students are expected to clean up after themselves. Students are responsible for the mess at their tables and for leaving the table clean in the cafeteria. Students are expected to deposit all trash in school-provided receptacles. This includes trash generated anywhere on the school campus. Students are responsible for cleaning any trash generated by themselves or by the members of their group.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Dean conference, review of expectations.
b. Second Offense: Restitution, lunch detention, parent/guardian contact.
c. Third Offense: Restitution, lunch detention, parent/guardian meeting.

13. Nuisance Objects
Possession use or distribution of any object that causes distractions, such as wallet chains, squirt guns, games, dice, playing cards, laser pens, etc. is prohibited. iPods may be in possession and used outside of academic areas, provided the use is not disturbing to others. Skateboards, in-line skates and scooters must be kept in student’s locker at all times.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Confiscation.
b. Second Offense: Detention, confiscation.
c. Third Offense: Detention, confiscation, parent/guardian meeting.

14. Posting Disruptive Videos/Photos
Students must not make or disseminate (while on or off school property) recordings, photographs, or videos of other students or individuals, including school employees, if the recording will substantially disrupt and interfere with the work and discipline of the school, or the ability of a student to attend school or participate fully in its activities. Any making or dissemination of a recording must not disrupt the civil and respectful atmosphere toward teachers, other employees, and students alike. Recordings that are considered disruptive include, but are not limited to, recordings that are demeaning, derogatory, or sexually suggestive toward a student or employee. This policy applies to District-issued and personal devices that are used to make the recording.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences: (refer to i-Learn + personal devices)

a. First Offense: Disciplinary action assigned by the building administration, offending posting must be removed.
b. Subsequent Offense: Up to 3-day suspension, offending posting must be removed.
 

15. Roughhousing (Pushing, Shoving, Scuffling)
Physical contact such, as but not limited to, pushing, shoving, or scuffling that is not defined as an assault or fighting is prohibited. This also includes other physically intimidating contact (such as “slap boxing”) aimed at another student. In the event that pushing, shoving or scuffling constitutes a fight or assault, the consequences for those violations will be imposed.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Dean conference.
b. Second Offense: Dean conference, detention, parent/guardian contact.
c. Third Offense: Dean conference, detention, parent/guardian meeting.

16. Technology (School Issued) Misuse
See i-Learn Expectation Section of Handbook

Guidelines for Potential Consequences: Violations of these expectations could result in any of the following: removal of technology usage, disciplinary action (detention, legal action, police referral).

a. First Offense: Expectations review.
b. Second Offense: iPad Restriction up to two weeks.
c. Third Offense: iPad Restriction up to nine weeks.
d. Fourth Offense: Permanent iPad restriction.

17. Theft, Receiving or Possessing Stolen Property
The unauthorized taking, using, transferring, hiding, or possessing of the property of another person without the consent of the owner, or the receiving of such property, is prohibited.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Detention, up to 3-day suspension, possible police referral and restitution.
b. Second Offense: Up to 5-day suspension, police referral and restitution.
c. Third Offense: Suspension pending review by school & district administration for recommendation for expulsion, police referral and restitution.

18. Threats and Intimidation: Physical, Verbal or Written
Any language (oral or written) or gestures including the use of electronic devices or physical intimidation that are meant to threaten or cause fear of bodily harm or death is prohibited.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. Any Offense: Suspension pending review by school & district administration for recommendation for expulsion, and police referral.

19. Tobacco/Vaping Possession or Use
Central Middle School, in compliance with school district policy, is proud to encourage and support a tobacco-free environment. Smoking, chewing, possessing or using tobacco in any form including e-cigarettes at any time, at any school location including school vicinity, or at a school-sponsored activity is strictly prohibited.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:
 

a. First Offense: ISS, police referral, confiscation, parent/guardian contact.
b. Second Offense: Dismissal, ISS, police referral, confiscation, parent/guardian meeting.
c. Third Offense: Restricted study, parent meeting, social work involvement to set up plans for success, chemical health referral.

20. Transportation
Bus ridership is a privilege, not a right. Students are responsible for keeping their bus area clean. If students damage a bus, they will have to make restitution. If students do not follow the rules, they can lose their bus riding privileges. Any disruptive behavior, as defined under school policy, while riding a school bus is prohibited. This includes not remaining seated, throwing objects, disruptive behavior at a bus stop or to and from the bus stop, tampering with emergency or safety equipment, and lighting flammable devices, throwing objects or disruptive behavior at a bus stop or to and from the bus stop.

Secondary students who commit a fourth or fifth offense may be suspended from riding the bus for the remainder of the school year. Severe behavior will move the student immediately to a higher level of offense, based on the severity of the action and/or previous bus violations. In addition, school management guidelines will be enforced when appropriate.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Warning given. Expectation review.
b. Second Offense: Up to 3-day bus suspension.
c. Third Offense: Up to 5-day bus suspension and conference with student, parent/guardian, transportation representative.

21. Vandalism
Defacing, cutting or damaging property, technology or telecommunication equipment that belongs to the school district, other students, staff members or other individuals is prohibited.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: Detention, restitution/cleaning, possible police referral.
b. Second Offense: Restitution/cleaning, possible suspension, and police referral.
c. Third Offense: Suspension pending review by school & district administration for recommendation for expulsion, police referral and restitution.

22. Weapons
In accordance with federal, state, and district policies, no weapons are permitted on school grounds. Anyone who has reason to believe a weapon is on a school site, bus, or at a school-sponsored activity has a duty to report that information to the site administrator, police officer, or any adult supervisor. Possession is defined as, but not limited to, having a weapon on one’s person or in an area subject to one’s control in a school environment. Definition: A “weapon” means any object, device, instrument, or substance designed as a weapon or through its use is capable of threatening or producing bodily harm, or which may be used to inflict self-injury, including, but not limited to:

• all firearms, loaded or unloaded, functional or non-functional, look-alike or facsimile of a real weapon, or any other device or instrument having the appearance of a weapon
• all knives
• objects designed to be worn over fists or knuckles
• blackjacks, clubs, Nunchaku (“nunchucks”), throwing stars
• explosives, incendiary devices, bombs, fireworks, or other similar devices which can cause an explosion
• bows and arrows, slingshots, razors
• poison chemicals including mace, pepper gas, or similar sprays, or chemical components and/or mixture which can cause an explosion
• firearm muffler, silencer, or ammunition
• any object modified to serve as a weapon
• articles designed for other purposes (pencils, scissors, etc.) but used to inflict bodily harm and/or intimidate others

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

First Offense: Confiscation of the weapon (if it can be done safely). 10-day suspension pending recommendation for expulsion from school for a period of not to exceed one year (365 days). Referral to police.
***Students with disabilities who violate the weapons policy shall be disciplined in accordance with the requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
***A student who finds a weapon on the way to school or in a school location, or a student who discovers that he or she accidentally has a weapon in his or her possession and takes the weapon immediately to the principal’s office shall not be considered to possess a weapon. If it would be impractical or dangerous to take the weapon to the principal’s office, a student shall not be considered to possess a weapon if he or she immediately turns the weapon over to an administrator, teacher or head coach or immediately notifies an administrator, teacher or head coach of the weapon’s location.

23. Unique Situations
Discipline situations that arise which are not covered by these guidelines will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Behaviors that are willful and disruptive or potentially harmful are included. Unique or special situations may call for an adjustment in the discipline policies to meet the school and/or district’s needs.

In order to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment, the following guidelines regarding student behavior will be followed. These are guidelines only and do not include all possible student offenses. See Eden Prairie School District Policy 506.7. The School District retains the right to suspend or expel a student or impose other disciplinary action at their discretion, based on the severity of behavior, the facts, circumstances, and nature of a student offense and the student’s disciplinary record.

Guidelines for Potential Consequences:

a. First Offense: ISS, police referral, confiscation, parent/guardian contact.
b. Second Offense: Dismissal, ISS, police referral, confiscation, parent/guardian meeting.
c. Third Offense: Restricted study, parent meeting, social work involvement to set up plans for success, chemical health referral.

●      In-School Suspension –Students may be prohibited from attending a class or activity for a period of time not to exceed five days for each violation of school district rules, regulations or policies.
●      Mediation - Bringing two parties involved in a conflict together to settle the dispute.
●      Restitution - A student could choose to fix a problem or mistake, or to set things right. Restitution may be done instead of a consequence or along with a consequence.
●      Suspension -An action taken by school administrators under the district’s discipline policy, which prohibits a pupil from attending school for a period of no more than 10 school days. The suspension period may be extended by an additional five days with a parent conference. A re-entry conference must occur before the pupil returns to school. This conference will include the pupil and his/her parent/guardian and any school official deemed necessary.
●      Expulsion -An action taken by the school board to prohibit an enrolled student from further attendance for a period up to 12 months from the date the student is expelled. 
●      Exclusion -An action taken by a school board to prevent enrollment or re-enrollment of a pupil for a period which will not extend beyond the school year.

Violations of school-wide rules may result in office detention. Detention is from 2:25-3:55 p.m. every day but Friday. Rules:

●      Bring study and/or reading materials.
●      No food or beverages.
●      No talking or music.
●      Students must stay the entire time; no breaks allowed.
●      Students who have been scheduled for a detention but are unable to attend must contact the Student Management office in person or by phone, (952) 975-7335.  Activities and athletics are not acceptable excuses for missing an assigned detention. Students who do not attend an assigned detention and do not have a parent excuse will receive an additional detention.
●      Students not following detention rules will be assigned an additional detention and/or other consequences.

When a dean or the dean’s assistant meets with a student to discuss problem behavior, it is considered an office visit. Parents will be notified when a student is assigned a consequence.

Teachers assign students to the Planning Room for violation of classroom or lunchroom rules. In the Planning Room students reflect on the incident that occurred and develop a plan to enable future success. Students call a parent/guardian to explain what happened and may be assigned a detention for the referral. After these steps, students work on assignments sent by their referring teacher or study. Students refusing to follow directions will be sent to a dean. Students assigned in-school suspension may spend the day in the Planning Room working on assignments given by their teachers for the day. If students run out of assigned work, the supervisor will give them additional work to complete.

A variety of district level committees and advisory councils, such as the Curriculum Advisory Council, Finance Advisory Committee, Special Education Advisory Council, and Community Education Advisory Council are important ways parents can help shape district policies, procedures, and programs. More information is available at www.edenpr.org.

The Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) at Central Middle School is comprised of parents and staff working together to enhance your child’s school experience. The group sponsors family-oriented social activities during the year and also organizes parent volunteer programs. The PTO plans events and fundraisers and uses associated proceeds to supplement programs at CMS that directly benefit students.

Opportunities: Central Middle School offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for parents. A current list of volunteer needs is posted on the CMS website. There is a place for you to volunteer at Central Middle School whether you have an hour or a day to share with our students and staff. 

Procedures: Volunteer forms will be available at your school at the beginning of the school year. Please fill one out and return it at any time. Volunteers are asked to follow the school security sign-in procedures. Staff are instructed to ask if they can help any visitor without a volunteer badge. This procedure has been developed as a proactive safety measure. As you work with staff and students, information of a confidential nature may be shared with you. The problems, abilities, relationships, and confidences of students, their parents, and staff should never be discussed with anyone who does not have a professional right or need to know. Like teachers, volunteers are bound by a code of ethics to keep confidential matters within the school.

The Environmental Protection Agency requires school districts to annually notify parents, guardians, and staff about the presence of asbestos in district facilities as well as planned abatement activities. Eden Prairie Schools performs routine six-month periodic inspections of all asbestos-containing building material to ensure materials are in good condition. Records of these inspections are available for viewing in each building maintenance office and the Facilities and Safety Department at the Administrative Services Center. Anyone is welcome to review these plans with prior notice during normal working hours Monday through Friday. No planned asbestos abatement is scheduled for this school year. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the district’s Asbestos Designated Person, Jim Anderson, at 952-975-7126. More information on Asbestos can be found at: www.epa.gov/asbestos/pubs/asbestos_in_schools.html

The Parents’ Right-To-Know Act that was passed by the Minnesota Legislature requires schools to notify parents, guardians, and staff regarding pesticide application in schools. The district uses Orkin Pest Control to conduct planned pesticide applications during the school year. Applications will be done as needed but will always be on the fourth Thursday of each month while school is not in session. However, the schedule may change due to inclement weather. Parents, guardians, and staff may request to be notified of any changes in the application schedule by contacting any of the school offices. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Facilities and Safety Department at 952-975-7121. More information on Pest Management can be found at: https://www.mda.state.mn.us/integrated-pest-management.

Eden Prairie Schools has developed an Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Management Program as required by the Minnesota Department of Education. The program includes information for concerned parents, guardians, and staff regarding the IAQ in our schools as well as an overall building walkthrough inspection that is conducted in all school district buildings annually. The program also includes a written set of procedures that describe ways to correct the identified IAQ problems, prevent future problems, and respond to emergencies and concerns. The district’s Indoor Air Quality Coordinator is Jim Anderson, Facilities and Safety Director. He can be reached at 952-975-7126. More information on Indoor Air Quality can be found here.

 

The school district will seek criminal history background checks for all applicants who receive an offer of employment with the school district. The school district also will seek criminal history background checks for all individuals, except enrolled student volunteers, who are offered the opportunity to provide athletic coaching services or other extracurricular academic coaching services to the school district, regardless of whether compensation is paid. These positions include, but are not limited to, all athletic coaches, extracurricular academic coaches, assistants, and advisors. The school district may elect to seek criminal history background checks for other volunteers, independent contractors, and student employees.

As part of its policy, the district has specified a procedure for a parent, guardian, or adult student 18 years or older to review the content of instructional materials, address concerns, and propose alternative instruction for an individual student. The procedure spells out three action steps beginning with an informal meeting of the adult and responsible staff members. If the concern is not resolved, it will be taken to the building principal. If resolution cannot be reached, the parent/guardian/adult/student will be asked to complete a form and a meeting involving representatives of the district and site Learning and Teaching staff will be convened.

Materials that are part of the basic educational program are provided with state, federal, and local funds at no charge to a student. Students are expected to provide their own pencils, paper, erasers, and notebooks. Students may be required to pay certain other fees or deposits, including (not an all-inclusive list):

●      Cost for materials for a class project that exceeds minimum requirements and is kept by the student.
●      Security deposits for the return of materials, supplies, or equipment.
●      Field trips considered supplementary to the district’s educational program.
●      Admission fees or costs to attend or participate in optional extracurricular activities and programs.
●      Voluntarily purchased student health and accident insurance.
●      Use of musical instruments owned or rented by the school district.
●      A school district-sponsored driver or motorcycle education training course.
●      Transportation to and from school for students living within two miles of school.
●      Transportation of students to and from optional extracurricular activities or post-secondary instruction conducted at locations other than school.

Students will be charged for textbooks, workbooks, and library books that are lost or destroyed. The school district may waive a required fee or deposit if the student and parent/guardian are unable to pay. For more information, contact your school’s principal.

If a parent requests it, the school district will provide information regarding the professional qualifications of his/her child’s classroom teachers, including, at a minimum, the following:

1. Whether the teacher has met state qualifications and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction;
2. Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional licensing status through which state qualification or licensing criteria have been waived;
3. The baccalaureate degree major of the teacher and any other graduate certification or degree held by the teacher, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree;
4. Whether the student is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications.

In addition, the school district will provide parents with information as to the level of achievement of their child in each of the state academic assessments. The school district also will provide 

notice to parents if, for four or more consecutive weeks, their child has been assigned to or taught by a teacher who is not highly qualified.

Students will recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America weekly. Any person who does not wish to participate in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance for any personal reason may elect not to do so. Students must respect another person’s right to make that choice. Students will also receive instruction in the proper etiquette toward, correct display of, and respect for the flag.

TThe Family Education Rights and Privacy Act requires school districts to notify parents/guardians and students that certain information from student records may be released and made public without the written consent of the parents or students 18-years-of-age or older. This information is called “directory information.” Directory information includes name, residential mailing address, telephone number, date and place of birth, grade in school, major field of study, participation in officially organized activities and sports, weight and height of athletic team members, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, previous school attended, and photos. These publications could include district-initiated publications such as calendars, newsletters, annual reports, and brochures. They also include school-initiated publications such as student newspapers and yearbooks. In addition, media, including weekly community newspapers, metro daily papers, and television stations may ask to take photos of district students. Parent/guardians or students of majority age who do not want directory information released for internal and/or external use must notify the district in writing by October 1.

Eden Prairie Schools has adopted a policy about the rights of parents and students with respect to school records. This policy complies with federal and state laws guaranteeing the right to examine and challenge the contents of student records. The Minnesota Legislature has said that all school records are deemed private. This means that the district cannot release any information without permission except directory information. A summary of census information along with grades and attendance data is stored electronically when students leave the school system.

Occasionally, the school district utilizes surveys to obtain student opinions and information about students. If you have questions related to the rights of parents/guardians and eligible students about conducting surveys contact your principal.

Eden Prairie Schools believes each student, regardless of age, race, gender, ability level, religious beliefs, national origin, sexual orientation (actual or perceived), or physical attributes, deserves the right to be educated in an environment that does not interfere with their educational opportunities or ability to participate in school functions or activities or receive school benefits, services, or privileges. To that end, acts of bullying towards another student or groups of students will not be tolerated and will be dealt with in a swift and serious manner. 

According to the Minnesota Safe and Supportive Schools Act bullying means any intimidating, threatening, abusive, or harming conduct that is objectively offensive in nature. Furthermore, there is an actual or perceived imbalance of power between the student engaging in prohibited conduct and the target of the behavior and the conduct is repeated or forms a pattern. The act of cyber-bullying which refers to bullying others by using technology or other electronic devices, or retaliation for asserting, alleging, reporting, or providing information about bullying or knowingly making a false report about bullying in any form are prohibited as well. Bullying does not refer to a one-time argument or disagreement between students.

The school district recognizes that students and employees have the right to express themselves on school property. This protection includes distributing non-school-sponsored material, subject to school district regulations and procedures, at a reasonable time and place and in a reasonable manner. 

The school district does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, parental status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, sexual orientation, or age. The school district also makes reasonable accommodations for disabled students.

The school district does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, sexual orientation, age, family care leave status, or veteran status. The school district also makes reasonable accommodations for disabled employees.
 

It is the policy of the school district to maintain a learning and working environment that is free from harassment and violence on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, or disability. The school district prohibits any form of harassment or violence on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, or disability.

Hazing is prohibited. No student will plan, direct, encourage, aid, or engage in hazing. Students who violate this rule will be subject to disciplinary action pursuant to the school district’s “Student Discipline” policy.

Users are expected to use Internet access through the district system to further educational and personal goals consistent with the mission of the school district and school policies. Uses which might be acceptable on a user’s private personal account on another system may not be acceptable on this limited-purpose network. In accordance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the district filters Internet access. Students are directed to inform staff immediately if they receive any image or communication that is inappropriate.

The school district is committed to inclusive education and providing an equal educational opportunity for all students. The school district does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, parental status, status with regard to public assistance, disability, sexual orientation, or age in its programs and activities. If you have questions about this policy, please contact your principal.

●      Disability Nondiscrimination:The school district shall not engage in contractual or other arrangements that have the effect of subjecting its qualified applicants or employees with disabilities to discrimination on the basis of disability. The school district shall not exclude or otherwise deny equal jobs or job benefits to a qualified individual because of the known disability of an individual with whom the qualified individual is known to have a relationship or association.

●      Student Sex Nondiscrimination:The school district provides equal educational opportunity for all students and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of sex. No student will be excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or otherwise subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity operated by the school district on the basis of sex.

The school district will give notice to teachers and other appropriate school district staff before students with a history of violent behavior are placed in their classrooms. Prior to giving this notice, district officials will inform the student’s parent or guardian that the notice will be given. The student’s parents/guardians have the right to review and challenge their child’s records, including the data documenting the history of violent behavior.

School officials may, without a search warrant, search a student and/or their personal possessions based on a reasonable suspicion. Reasonable suspicion means that a school official has grounds to believe that the search will result in evidence of a violation of school district policy, rules, and/or law. Personal possessions include, but are not limited to purses, backpacks, book bags, packages, clothing, cell phones, and vehicles. Pursuant to Minnesota statutes, school lockers and student desks are the property of the school district. At no time does the school district relinquish its exclusive control of lockers and desks provided for the convenience of students. Inspection of the interior of lockers and student desks may be conducted by school authorities for any reason, at any time, without notice, without student consent, and without a search warrant.

School district students and staff have the right to learn and work in an environment that is tobacco-free. School policy is violated by any individual’s use of tobacco or tobacco-related devices in a public school, on school grounds, in any school-owned vehicles, or at any school events or activities. Students may not possess any type of tobacco or tobacco-related device in a public school, on school grounds, in any school-owned vehicles, or at any school events or activities. Any student who violates this policy is subject to school district discipline. Contact the school principal or another staff member if you have questions or wish to report violations.

The district has adopted a weapons policy. Anyone who has reason to believe a weapon is on a school site, bus, or at a school-sponsored activity has a duty to report that information to the site administrator, police officer, or any adult supervisor. Possession is defined as, but not limited to, having a weapon on one’s person or in an area subject to one’s control in a school environment. Weapons are defined as any object, device, instrument, or substance designed as a weapon or through its use capable of threatening or producing bodily harm, or which may be used to inflict self-injury, including, but not limited to: firearms, loaded or unloaded, functional or non-functional, look-alike or facsimile or having the appearance of a weapon; all knives; objects designed to be worn over fists or knuckles; blackjacks, clubs, nunchucks or throwing stars; explosive or incendiary devices; bows and arrows, slingshots, razors; poison chemicals including mace, pepper gas, or similar sprays; firearm muffler, silencer, or ammunition; any object modified to serve as a weapon; articles designed for other purposes such as pencils or scissors but used to inflict bodily harm or intimidate others.

Violation of the weapons policy may result in one or more of these consequences: out-of-school suspension, confiscation of the weapon; notification of the police, recommendation for expulsion or exclusion from school for up to one year. Students with disabilities who violate the policy will be disciplined in accordance with the requirement of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Eden Prairie Schools has adopted a Wellness Policy to encourage students and staff to eat nutritiously and incorporate physical activity into a healthy lifestyle. A Wellness Advisory Committee was convened to monitor implementation of Wellness policies and guidelines, and to make recommendations to the district. Guidelines for healthy snacks, treats, and lunches from home were created. School district practices that have changed as a result of the policy include: lunch was moved after recess to discourage hurried eating, no pop is sold where students are present during the school day, classroom birthday treats are discouraged, staff is encouraged to model healthy behaviors, food and beverage rewards are discouraged, healthy snacks from home are encouraged (a snack guideline is available at each site), classroom/holiday parties should be limited and not centered around food, and staff are encouraged to create opportunities for physical activity for students. 

This handbook does not cover all situations. The administration reserves the right to sanction students for violating school rules and expectations not specifically covered in this publication. Sanctions may include, but are not limited to a warning, planning room visit, detention, after-school detention, in-school suspension, out-of-school suspension, exclusion, expulsion, community/school service, parent involvement, and loss of privileges. Any and all of the material in this handbook is subject to amendment by the school administration or the Board of Education at any time. 

State law requires schools to have 11 emergency drills each school year, including fire drills, lockdown drills, and tornado drills. School staff train students on procedures required to observe each drill. During drills, staff will act immediately to assist students, visitors, and volunteers in evacuation to a safe location.

During emergency procedures or evacuation, students, visitors, and volunteers are required to:

●      Follow all emergency directions given by school officials.
●      Report to designated area for attendance and further instruction.
●      Report any suspicious activity/behavior, concern or information immediately to school officials.

Eden Prairie School Resource Officers are connected with each school. Some have offices on campus, others visit regularly to develop relationships with students and teach safety programs. Officers may assist school staff with student behavior incidents when laws have been violated. School Resource Officers and the Facilities Department work cooperatively to review district crisis management plans and site emergency procedures so that there is a coordinated response to emergencies by the school district and emergency responders.

All visitors, volunteers, and parents visiting any Eden Prairie school must enter through the main door and follow the procedures at the Welcome Desk. These procedures include providing a driver’s license for a security check and receiving a printed name tag. Please check out before exiting the building. It is the responsibility of all adults in the school to explain the check-in procedures and to direct any visitors to the front office to complete this procedure. In addition, it is not permissible for any adult or child to open other entry doors to allow a visitor to enter a school building. No student "shadowing" is permitted.