All our teachers and staff are pleased to welcome you to Longfellow Middle School. Whether you are a 6th, 7th, or 8th grader, you are in for an exciting, challenging year! It will only take a short time before you become an active member of the Longfellow community both academically and socially. We hope you take advantage of the many opportunities available to you throughout the year. Your success is a shared responsibility between you, your parents, and the Longfellow staff. You will be expected to attend school daily, have pride in the assignments you complete, and accept responsibility for appropriate behavior. Every staff member is here to help you develop the qualities which lead to good citizenship and to support your academic studies. In the first few weeks of school, the information in this handbook will be reviewed in class so that all middle school students are aware of the expectations and information about our school.  This handbook will answer many questions you may have about rules and activities at Longfellow. All students and families are responsible for knowing the contents of this handbook and maintaining the student planner throughout the year, which is to support our middle school students’ organizational growth in an academic setting.  The staff of Longfellow wishes each student a successful 2009-10 school year!

 

SCHOOL MISSION & VISION STATEMENTS
The mission of Longfellow Spanish Immersion Magnet School is to provide a nurturing environment of academic excellence which provides for the development of a responsible cross-cultural world citizen with an enriched understanding of self and others.
The vision of Longfellow Spanish Immersion Magnet School is to improve student achievement in Spanish and in English by improving teaching in a powerful community of learners. 

 

ATTENDANCE & ABSENCES
 Regular and prompt attendance is the responsibility of both parent and student. Our goal is to provide your child with the best educational opportunities available. Regular attendance is essential to attain this goal. For this reason we strongly encourage parents to schedule medical/dental appointments and vacations when school is not in session. Each day of classroom instruction is important. Students are responsible for inquiring about missed assignments upon their return to school.   Students who have an excessive number of absences may be referred to SDUSD for a possible hearing before the School Attendance Review Board (SARB).

 

REPORTING AN ABSENCE
Student absences need to be reported to the school BEFORE 10:00 a.m. on a daily basis by a parent or guardian. The number to report absences is: (619) 276-4211 ext. 297  (This telephone number is available 24 hours to report absences.)
Please leave a brief message and give the following information:
• Student’s LAST NAME (Please SPELL the last name)
• First name
• Grade
• Date of absence
• Reason for absence or nature of illness

LEAVING SCHOOL EARLY
Students leaving school early for any reason must be issued a BLUE SLIP from the office.  Students should bring a note to the attendance office in the morning so they can pick up their blue slip before school.  They will then be able to leave their classroom at the time indicated on the blue slip and meet their parent in the office.  Parents MUST sign students out in the Attendance Office area.

 

TRUANCY
Any student who chooses to be out of class without permission, or leaves campus without permission, is considered TRUANT. Parents will be notified. Truancy will not be tolerated and will affect grades and citizenship in classes missed.  In addition, student may receive disciplinary consequences such as lunch clean-up or in-school suspension.

 

TARDINESS
School begins promptly at 8:50 a.m. All students arriving after 8:50 a.m. will need to sign in at the Attendance Office. Students may receive disciplinary consequences if they are tardy more than 2 times in a six-week grading period. EXCESSIVE tardies will affect citizenship grades and may be referred to SDUSD for a possible hearing before the SARB.

 

Students are expected to be in their seats with all necessary materials, (books, paper, pencil, etc.) and be ready for work when the tardy bell rings. Tardiness is tallied on a semester basis and it is the teacher’s responsibility to communicate their concerns with the parents until it reaches a chronic or habitual stage, when it is to be referred to the school or district attendance office.

                                            

CONTRACTS OF INDEPENDENT STUDY
Parents must give the school adequate advance notice when requesting that the school prepare an independent study contract—a minimum of 5 full school days in advance is required. Contracts are only given to students that will be absent for 5 or more days. The school qualifies for state funds when a student enters into a contract and completes the contract within the guidelines and timelines given. A contract does not guarantee passing grades. Grades will be determined by the supervising teacher for quantity and quality of work submitted by the due date.

 

 

BUS ARRIVAL & DISMISSAL INFORMATION
It is the responsibility of students to report to the back gate every day after school immediately following the dismissal bell.  Teachers will not detain any students after school without first obtaining parent permission.  Buses will not be detained for students who do not board their bus on time.  Students who miss their bus will have to call a parent for a ride.  The following is bus arrival & bus departure information for 2011-2012:

 

                                                     Bus Arrival            Start Time              Dismissal Time                  Bus Departure
Regular School Days              8:40 a.m.               8:50 a.m.                3:55 p.m.                              4:05 p.m.
Minimum School Days            8:40 a.m.               8:50 a.m.                1:05 p.m.                              1:10 p.m.

CAFETERIA
All middle school students are strongly encouraged to eat a healthy breakfast at home.  Although breakfast is available at 8:40 a.m., middle school students are expected to be in class on time by 8:50 a.m.  Students may bring a lunch to school or buy one from our cafeteria.  Lunch prices are approximately $2.25.  Students are expected to behave appropriately during lunch and are responsible for cleaning up after themselves.   Once in the lunch area, students may not leave this area until dismissed by a lunch supervisor.  Food may not be taken or eaten outside of the lunch area.   Once dismissed, students will walk to the lower playground near the middle school classrooms.  Students are not permitted to be on the K-5 playground structures.

 

CAMPUS VISITORS
Longfellow is known as a friendly, inclusive school with enthusiastic students. If you see a visitor on campus, greet them and offer your help. All parents and visitors must check in at the front office and obtain a visitor’s badge. Student visitors are not allowed on campus unless accompanied by an adult.

 

CLOSED CAMPUS
Longfellow is a closed campus. Students may not leave the campus between the time they arrive in the morning and the time they are dismissed in the afternoon. Students must be off campus 5 minutes after the last class unless their school bus is late or unless they are participating in a teacher supervised after school activity. No students are allowed on campus on weekends, evenings or holidays.

 

COMMUNICATIONS
Longfellow Spanish Immersion School is fast becoming a green school!  This means that we are working hard to save our natural resources, which also saves money that can be used to provide an even better and richer education for our children.

A cornerstone of our efforts is to reduce the amount of paper we use to communicate within our Community.  To this end, we are using a free product offered by Google called GoogleGroups.  GoogleGroups gives us the near real-time capability to communicate by group: As a classroom, by interest (such as Running Club), and as a whole Community.

 

In previous years, GoogleGroups offered the option for our school’s electronic communications team to pre-load e-mail addresses into the respective GoogleGroups.  In order to cut down on unsolicited advertisement (“spam”), however, GoogleGroups no longer permits that members be pre-loaded into the groups.  Now, everyone desiring access to a GoogleGroup must actively accept an invitation or request access in order to participate.

Longfellow’s “E-Team” has invited the majority of the Community into their respective classroom communications centers, as well as the school-wide eAnnouncements GoogleGroup.  Families experiencing difficulties with GoogleGroups should contact  Longfellow’s E-Team at lfs.groupadmin@gmail.com.

 

CONNECT-ED
Longfellow also uses a mass-notification system called Connect-ED for certain school wide announcements and reminders.  This is the official communication system that would be used in the event of a campus emergency or disaster.  Connect-ED is linked to our district database, called Zangle, so it is extremely important that the school office has your current phone numbers and email address on file.  All Connect-ED phone messages are accompanied with an email message as well.

 

COUNSELING OFFICE
The middle school years are a time of great change physically, intellectually and emotionally. Therefore, the Longfellow Spanish Immersion Magnet Middle School counseling program is here to help students make a successful transition from elementary to middle school and from middle school to high school. Students and parents are encouraged to seek out counselor services for help with personal, social, educational and vocational plans or problems. Every student is unique and valued at Longfellow Spanish Immersion Middle School. We believe in providing support so that each individual can reach his/her potential.

 

DROP OFF AND PICKUP PROCEDURES
Many students are dropped off and picked up by car at the school.  Students may be dropped off and picked up along July Street.  For safety reasons, parents should not double park or encourage students to cross in the middle of the street.  Students must be off campus by 4:10 p.m. or else signed in to the YMCA Childcare program.  The school is not responsible for students who are not picked up by 4:10 p.m.  These students may be picked up by school police.

 

EMERGENCY DRILLS
Disaster and fire drills are conducted periodically at school. Teachers will instruct students on the proper evacuation procedures. Alarm bells are as follows:
1. Continuous series of three short rings - Emergency Immediate Evacuation
2. Continuous series of long and short rings - Duck and Cover
3. Three long rings - Lock Down
4. Five short rings - Shelter in place
5. One long ring - Return to class/Return to normal status

IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY
All district schools have developed a comprehensive school safety plan that meets state requirements.  The safety plan includes procedures that help us keep a safe and orderly environment for all students.  Emergency procedures are discussed with students and teachers every year.  Longfellow regularly practices emergency drills in case of fire, natural disaster or other emergencies requiring a lockdown.  Our goals in any emergency are:

• To keep students and staff in a safe environment
• Stay calm
• Facilitate an orderly evacuation to the back area of the campus
• Account for every student and adult on campus

Fire – A continuous short bell will ring.  All buildings are evacuated.  Students walk with the teacher to the back area of the school.

Earthquake – A long bell of about 15 seconds will ring.  A few minutes later, the fire bell will ring.  If you are inside, move away from windows, drop to the floor and cover your head with your hands.  If you are outside, move away from all buildings and overhead wires, drop to ground and cover your head with your hands.  When the area has been determined safe, an all clear bell will sound, and students will be escorted to a safe area.

Lockdown – In the case of an intruder on our campus, a long continuous bell will ring.  Students need to go into the closest open room.  Teachers will lock the door, turn off the lights and shut the blinds.  Students will be directed to go to the designated safe area for that room and/or lay on the ground.  When the area is determined to be safe, police will evacuate the school, room by room.  Students and staff will meet in designated area.  In the event of a real lockdown, police will assume authority for the situation, and we will follow their instructions.

Parent Action in Case of Emergency – Remain calm.  In the specific cases of emergency, where students will be dismissed early, signs will be posted with instructions.  We will follow school, district and police instructions to unite parents with students. 

 

Additional emergency tips for parents:
1. Be sure your child has important contact information memorized – home, cell and work phone numbers for both parents.  This is great information to write in your child’s planner.
2. Remind your child of the name and phone number for an adult to use as an alternate emergency number.
3. Have an alternate plan for rides, or plan to walk to or from school.  Make sure your child knows his/her own address and route to the house in case he/she needs to walk home or direct someone driving to the house.
4. Post the “School Calendar” on the refrigerator so you know when holidays and minimum days are occurring.
5. Notify the school of any changes in home address and home or work phone numbers.
6. Be sure we have on file all numbers and names of adults who we can release your child to in the event of an emergency.
7. Notify the school on any restraining orders and any court or custody issues that may involve the school or your child.
8. Report any concerns or suspicions that you may have, to a teacher, counselor or administrator.  If you prefer to remain anonymous, please call the Campus Crime Stopper Hotline at 619-235-TIPS (619-235-8477).

GROUNDS SUPERVISION
Supervision is provided on the school campus from 8:30-4:00 on regular days and 8:30-1:00 on minimum days.  If students are left at the school before or after these times, the students will be unsupervised and the police may be called to handle the matter. The school is not responsible for students dropped off before 8:30 a.m. or for students not picked up by 4:10 p.m.  on regular days or 1:10 p.m. on minimum days.

 

HALL PASSES
Any student who wishes to enter or leave the room during the class period, or is performing a duty that takes him through the halls, must have a pass issued by a faculty or staff member.

 

HEALTH OFFICE
The nurse is here eight hours a week and a health technician is here five days per week.  If you become ill, need first aid or health-related assistance, inform your teacher and get a pass to the nurse’s office. Do not come to the nurse’s office during a passing period without a pass.  Minor injury or illness will be handled at school by the nurse or other qualified staff member. Any on-campus injury should be reported to the nurse’s office immediately. If a serious injury or illness occurs at school, your parents will be called. Names and telephone numbers or other people who may take responsibility for you if your parents are not available must be included on the emergency card filed in the office.

The nurse should be informed immediately of any special health matters concerning you. Students are requested not to bring medication to school. However, if it becomes necessary, all medications must be kept in the nurse’s office. They should first be labeled correctly with your name, the name of the medication, the dose to be taken, and the time(s) to be taken. The medication also must be accompanied by forms completed by the physician for long-term medication and by the parent for short-term medication. All medication bottles should bear a label with the student’s name, name of medication, dosage, and times to be given. No medication will be accepted in plastic bags. All students with inhalers must have up-to-date asthma medication forms on file—these can be obtained in the health office.

 

ILLNESS AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Students who bring a note from their parents requesting that they not participate in PE due to an illness or minor injury will still report to PE unless other arrangements are made. They will not, however, participate in PE.  The PE teacher will modify or exempt a student’s activities based upon a signed parent/doctor note. If an illness or injury goes beyond three days, a doctor’s note is needed. That note should be taken to the nurse’s office before school begins on that day.  Parents should consult with the PE teacher when the student is going to be excused from PE for more than one week to discuss grading options.

 

HEALTH AND NUTRITION
Good nutrition makes for healthy bodies and healthy minds.  We ask that your child have a good breakfast before coming to school so they are ready to learn.  Food and beverages that are sent to school should be nutritious and low in sugar content.  Students should not bring candy to school.  Energy drinks such as Red Bull, Monster and sodas are not allowed.  Parents should never bring sweet snacks, treats, cakes, pizzas, etc. to school for birthdays or without permission for a special event. The free/reduced breakfast/lunch program is available to those who qualify.  Applications are available in the front office and can be completed at any time during the school year.

 

Longfellow Health and Wellness Policy  

Background: Federal law requires all school districts to have a local wellness policy. The wellness policy must address nutrition education, physical activities, school meals, and all other foods and beverages available at school. This federal mandate is part of No Child Left Behind. The San Diego Unified School District adopted a policy in 2007 that requires each school to have a policy. It is especially important that we implement a comprehensive policy at Longfellow to protect the wellbeing of all students and to give parents control over the diets of their children. The policy is also necessitated by the need to protect the physical health of our students with food allergies.  

 

New Policy at Longfellow: We are responsible for educating the whole child and thus must consider not only the social, emotional, cognitive and academic aspects of education, but also the physical and nutritional ones as well. Longfellow has joined the national campaign to promote health and wellness at school. It is the collective responsibility of school administrators, teachers and parents to take care of the health of our children and to teach them about health and wellness from an early age. Making such a commitment will require us to set and adhere to new health and wellness guidelines for our school:

Rewards: Longfellow teachers, administrators, and parents will not use candy, sweets, popcorn, sugary food, junk food, or sugary drinks as rewards for academic performance or good behavior. Teachers will develop other, non-food means for rewarding good behavior and academic achievement.
Celebrations: Food served as part of authorized school celebrations should make a positive contribution to children's diets and health, with an emphasis on including fruits and vegetables as the primary snacks.  Some suggestions include whole-grain crackers and cheese, low-fat tortilla chips and salsa, veggie sticks and low-fat dip, sliced apples and cheese, fruit salad with yogurt dip, and whole grain breads. Snacks that are high in sugar and/or fat are highly discouraged. Allergies of children within the classroom should always be taken into consideration.

Birthdays: Each classroom teacher may choose to celebrate birthdays once a month at the end of the month. Teachers and parents are encouraged to find non-food ways to celebrate birthdays, such as a special game, music party, or outdoor activity. Parents who want to help with an end-of-the-month  birthday celebration should contact the teacher in advance.  Birthday food should never be brought to school  without explicit permission from the teacher on a designated day.
Snacks and Lunches:  The school highly encourages parents to pack healthy snacks and lunches for students to consume at school. The school discourages foods high in fat and/or sugar at all times. Candy and sodas are not allowed in school.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES
Each student needs to have a three-ringed binder for school. In addition, students will need notebooks, pencils, paper, a lunch, etc.  If you are unable to purchase these items, please contact the principal and we will help to obtain these items. Please bring these supplies with you each day.  The Middle Recommended School Supply List can be found on the school’s website at www.longfellowschool.org.

 

STUDENT GOVERNMENT
Each student at Longfellow is a member of the Associated Student Body (ASB). The Associated Student Body is made up of both elected and appointed members who are responsible for spending ASB funds and planning student activities. Appointed representatives are elected from each grade level. They are responsible for bringing the ideas and opinions of their grade level to the Student Body Council.

 

ASB elections are held each November.  ASB officers and representatives model leadership and promote teamwork within the Longfellow community.  Students running for an ASB office must have at least a “C” average and no grade lower than a “D” in course work, and satisfactory citizenship grades with no “U’s” and no “N’s” all year or may be removed from office.

 

HONOR ROLL
Honor Roll membership is available to all 6th, 7th and 8th grade students who qualify as honor students based on semester grades (3.5 GPA or better).

 

TEXTBOOKS
Students are responsible for the textbooks assigned to them.  All textbooks are checked out to each individual student through the Longfellow Library.  Students are responsible for looking through each of their textbooks for pre-existing damage.  During the month of September, students may bring damage issues to the attention of the Longfellow Librarian.  After this grace period, the student is responsible for any unrecorded damage.   Each book must be covered with a book cover for the entire year. Do not apply tape to any part of the book or use sticky contact covers.  

For books, computers, cameras, video equipment, digital audio recorders and calculators,   lost, stolen, or damaged, students are responsible for replacement or repair costs.   Textbooks generally cost between $60 and $90 each.   When lost books are paid for and later returned in acceptable condition, (within a one year time period) a refund will be mailed to the parent’s last known address.  Failure to pay replacement or repair costs may result in loss of end of the year privileges such as participation in promotion ceremonies and activities.  In addition, grades, promotion certificates, or transcripts may be withheld until the amounts owed are repaid.

 

ACADEMIC HONESTY POLICY
“Honesty” is often defined as truthfulness and trustworthiness.  One of the goals of Longfellow Middle School is to teach these values to students.  While students have strong limitations on our campus, they also have the freedom in which to practice the higher values of integrity, honesty, and trustworthiness.  As in the larger society, however, there will be times when certain students will not make proper choices and abuse this freedom.  When an instance of cheating occurs, it is the responsibility of the school to react, so that when a student is dishonest, he/she learns a valuable, lifelong lesson about the importance of being honest.  Acts of academic dishonesty are of major importance and include the following:

Cheating on Tests or Assignments:  A student is cheating when he/she is guilty of dishonesty on any exam, quiz, or assignment – or when he/she knowingly assists another in dishonesty on any exam, quiz, or assignment.
Forgery:  A student is guilty of forgery when he/she is guilty of imitating or counterfeiting another person’s signature, work, data, disk, and/or homework assignments, for falsifying or inventing data, citations, etc.
Plagiarism:  A student is guilty of plagiarism when he/she is caught copying another student’s work, data, disk, homework assignments, and/or textbook material (including any published print and electronic material) and is claiming the work as his/her own. This also includes internet translators for more than a word pr phrase.
Theft or Alteration of Materials:  A student would be guilty of theft or alteration of materials if he/she is caught stealing, exchanging, or altering test documents, classmaterials, and/or teacher’s records.  This includes a student involved in selling,distributing or accepting stolen testing materials – or a student who refuses to cooperate in an investigation of cheating.

 

Consequences will include one or more of the following:

Students will receive a zero on the assignment, quiz, or test. – Student will receive a  referral to a counselor.
A second violation may result in an “F” and/or “U” grade for the grading period. – The  teacher will notify parent
Referral to principal or vice-principal with possible suspension.

PROGRESS REPORT CARDS
Progress report cards are given at the end of each six-week period. The scholarship grade is based on achievement; the citizenship grade is based on general behavior, attitude and work habits. Throughout the year, individual teachers also may notify parents whenever a student is doing poor work or has unsatisfactory citizenship by sending home individual progress reports. Excessive absences will affect your grade. Parents may request a Friday progress report by calling the counseling office. Scholarship marks are defined as follows:

• A- Excellent
• B- Good
• C- Average
• D- Passing
• F- Failure, no credit

A and B marks are recorded when student achievement is definitely above average for the grade level (not necessarily a particular class). High quality of achievement is the criterion, rather than the quantity of work done or the effort expended.

C and D marks are recorded when student achievement is average or below average for the grade level (not necessarily for a particular class).

F marks are recorded when student achievement is far below average, and no credit should be granted for the course. If the course is required, the student must repeat the course.

 

The mark at the end of the semester is the average of the work done during the three grading periods in that semester. (This should imply, however, that a student who begins the semester very poorly and then performs at “A” or “B” level for the rest of the semester could compensate for the poor start.)   The beginning of each semester gives the student in any course an opportunity to start fresh. This approach is an attempt to allow for the growth in attitude and maturity toward the subject and school in general.   Each student enrolled in a teacher’s class for a minimum of two weeks must receive a grade.

HOMEWORK
The Longfellow middle school staff believes home study is an important part of each student’s education. All students are expected and required to spend time studying at home on a daily basis.  By keeping records of long and short-term assignments in your student planner, you will be better able to plan your study time. Planning study time eliminates the necessity of spending too much time in completing an assignment the day before it is due.  If you have questions about homework or need some extra help in a subject, let your teachers know. They can make arrangements to meet you before or after school for some additional help.

Students are expected to write down their homework assignments in the planner, complete the homework, and return it to the teacher on time.  Each student attending Longfellow Middle School should read for a minimum of 30 minutes each night.  The average time students are expected to spend on homework is listed below:
 Grade 6 – 1 hour per night
 Grade 7 – 1 1/2 hours per night
 Grade 8 – 2 hours per night

 

MAKE-UP POLICY FOR SCHOOL WORK
Students should be allowed a reasonable amount of time to make up work missed during an excused absence. The following guidelines have been developed to help establish a uniform procedure which teachers will follow when a student is absent from school:

• “I” Illness or “E” Excused:  Responsibility for making up work rests entirely with student.  Teachers are to provide assignments and give student assistance upon student request.
• “U” Unexcused or “A” Uncleared:  Responsibility for making up work rests entirely with the student. Teachers are to provide assignments when asked for, but need not assume responsibility for assisting with make-up work. Students may be required to make up time in order to meet the requirements for graduation.
• “Z” Truancy or “T” Tardy:  The privilege of making up work for credit may be secured only by the student making special arrangements with the teachers concerned. Teachers are under no obligation to grant requests for such arrangements. Students may be required to make up time in order to meet the attendance requirements for graduation.
• “S” or “N” Suspension or In-School Suspension:  Responsibility for making up work rests entirely with the student. Teachers are to provide assignments when asked.

SCHOOL DISCIPLINE CODE
Students who do not follow school rules and procedures are subject to disciplinary action by a school official.  This action may take the form of lunch detention, a parent conference, an intervention plan, lunch clean-up, campus beautification, in-school suspension which includes  community service, suspension from regular school attendance or expulsion.  Basic Classroom Rules are:

1. BE HERE ON TIME.
2. Be seated when the bell rings.
3. Be prepared – books, notebooks, paper, pen, sharpened pencil, etc.
4. Listen and follow directions.
5. Be courteous.  Raise hand before speaking.
6. Respect the rights, opinions, and property of others.
7. Work without talking or disturbing anyone.
8. Use class time appropriately.  Avoid note writing, hair combing, applying makeup, etc.
9. No gum allowed on campus.  Repeated gum chewing will be considered as defiance.
10. Place waste paper in trash cans and recycled items in correct bins.
11. Remain in your seat until dismissed by your teacher.
12. Walk to your next class-no running on campus.
13. Cell phones must be turned off and out of sight, or they will be confiscated.
14. iPods and other electronic devices must be turned off and out of sight.

 

1. WEAPONS – Weapons such as paintball guns, nunchakus clubs, chains, firearms, knives, ninja stars, and pellet guns are forbidden by law.  Knives of any size, even scouting knives, Swiss army knives, razor blades, and pocketknives are never to be brought to campus for any reason.  San Diego Unified School District has adopted a Zero Tolerance Policy concerning students who possess weapons or are engaged in repeated fights and/or acts of violence.  Any student who has an object considered to be a weapon will be referred to the vice-principal for immediate suspension and investigation by School Police Services Department and/or the San Diego Policy Department for expulsion.  (Penal Code <P.C.> 626.10) (Education Code <E.C.> 48910)

2. EXPLOSIVE/FLAMMATORY OBJECTS – Possession or use of any explosive such as firecrackers, poppers, bomb bags, stink bombs, or similar items may result in an immediate suspension from school.  This section applies to the possession/usage of matches and lighters as well.  Be advised that the Municipal Code of San Diego, Section 53.10(b)(2) states that “It is a misdemeanor to possess or explode firecrackers on campus.”  A referral may be made to School Police for violations of this provision.

3. ASSAULT – Any student who is involved in an unprovoked attack or an assault on any student or adult (verbal or physical threat or action) will be suspended from school and will be referred to School Police Services Department which may conduct an investigation for possible expulsion.  (P.C. 240.242, E.C. 44014)

4. CAMERAS/CELL PHONE CAMERAS/VIDEO CAMERAS – These devices are not allowed on campus at any time.  If a student is caught with a camera or cell phone, it will be confiscated and only returned to parent or guardian.

5. CELL PHONES, PAGERS & OTHER ELECTRONIC SIGNALING DEVICES – Longfellow administration and staff strongly encourage students NOT to bring any valuables to school including cell phones due to theft risk.  The school is not responsible for lost or stolen items.  These devices must be kept out of sight and turned off during the school day.  They may be used only before and after school off campus.  Cell phones may be confiscated if used on campus and will only be returned to a parent or guardian.  Administration will not investigate lost/stolen valuables such as iPods, cell phones, toys, etc.

6. COMPUTER/INTERNET USE – Students must have SDUSD Student Network Responsibility Contract on file before using any computer at school.  This contract outlines responsibilities, acceptable use, privileges, network etiquette, security and vandalism policies under the Network Use Guidelines.  Students must follow the Network use Guidelines.  Violations may result in cancellation of computer privileges.

7. DEFIANCE – Any student who defies school rules or refuses to follow  directions or refuses to give their name may be suspended. Ongoing defiance and disruption will not be tolerated.

8. DISRUPTION – Any student who deliberately disrupts classroom instruction or school activities will be immediately referred for disciplinary action, including suspension.   (E.C. 10609, District Procedure 2619)  Ongoing disruption will not be tolerated.

9. DRUGS/ALCOHOL – Possession or use of narcotics, dangerous drugs, or alcohol is a violation of the law.  Students involved with or possessing narcotics or alcohol will be suspended and referred to School Police Services and/or the San Diego Police Department.  (E.C. 48904)

10. EXTORTION OR THREATS – Any students involved in obtaining money or other possessions of value through the use of intimidation or violence will be suspended.  An investigation by School Police Services may be required.  (Extortion:  P.C. 518, Threats:  P.C. 519)

11. FIGHTING – Fighting, including play-fighting, is strictly forbidden.  Students who fight will be referred to the counselor or vice principal for disciplinary action and suspension.  After three fights inflicting injury within one year, the student will be required to attend a Zero Tolerance Program.  For details, see the district’s Zero Tolerance Policy.

12. FOOD AND DRINK IN CLASSROOMS – Food and drink are not allowed during normal classroom hours.  There may be some exceptions under teacher supervision.

13. GAMBLING – Gambling in any form is prohibited by state law.  Gambling is defined as wagering or betting money on the outcome of any activity.  Students who are involved in this activity may be suspended.  Students should not have dice or cards or anything that can be considered a gambling device in their possession at school.  These will be taken from students.  (Administration Code 301, E.C. 10601-10609)

14. GUM – Gum is not allowed on campus even after school (not in pockets, backpacks, purses, etc.)  This means no gum at lunch.  Violators may be referred for disciplinary action including campus beautification.

15. INSTIGATING – Students who instigate problems, unsafe situations or misbehavior will be considered a participant and will receive appropriate consequences for their actions.

16. LASER POINTERS – No student shall possess a laser pointer on campus.  (P.C. 417.27)  Pointing a laser pointer in a threatening manner may be a misdemeanor.  (P.C. 417.25)

17. LEAVING CAMPUS WITHOUT PERMISSION – Students may not leave campus without permission.  Leaving campus without a Blue Slip is considered a truancy.  (District Procedure 2380)

18. MISBEHAVIOR GOING TO AND FROM SCHOOL – Students are subject to disciplinary action for any form of misbehavior in the process of going to and from school.  (District Procedure 2619)

19. PERMANENT MARKERS/AEROSOL CANS – Permanent markers and aerosol cans are not permitted on campus.

20. (a) PROFANITY/PORNOGRAPHY – The use of offensive words or profanity is unacceptable.  Obscene actions, possession of pornographic materials, or habitual profanity can lead to suspension.  (b) SLAM BOOKS – Slam books are not allowed on the school campus.  These will be confiscated and may be returned only to the parent.

21. STUDENT FUNDRAISING – The only fundraising allowed on campus is that for school sponsored activities.  No other candy or food can be sold on campus. 

Students may not sell candy from school fundraisers on campus.  Students are responsible for their own fundraising items.

22. STUDENT TRANSPORTATION – Bikes should be walked in front of the school at all times.  SKATEBOARDS, ROLLERBLADES AND SCOOTERS (RAZORS) ARE NOT ALLOWED.  (San Diego Municipal Code 84.12)

23. THEFT – Any student involved in the theft or attempted theft of school or personal property will be suspended.  This includes receiving stolen property.  School Police Services contact may be required.  Longfellow administration and staff strongly encourage students NOT to bring any valuables to school due to theft risk.  Students are encouraged not to bring large amounts of money to school or to leave backpacks/purses unattended.  Thefts must be reported immediately to the administration.

24. TOUCHING AND HARASSMENT – Public display of affection (kissing, romantically embracing, etc.) is never allowed on school grounds.  Inappropriate touching of another’s body is forbidden and will be dealt with as a serious matter requiring an investigation for disciplinary intervention.  The rule is “Keep your hands off others at all times.”  Harassment can be such actions as unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual favors; or verbal, visual, physical conduct of a sexual nature.  Bullying will not be tolerated.  See district policy of Student Nondiscrimination and Sexual Harassment for more details.

25. TOBACCO – Students involved in the use of tobacco on any part of the school grounds will be suspended.  Possession of tobacco on campus is also grounds for suspension.  Students are not to have any form of tobacco (smokeless tobacco, chew packets, and betel) in their possession at school or during school activities.  This policy also extends to the possession and/or use of matches and lighters.  (Education Code 48900-20)  Refer to district policy.

26. TOYS – Toys (such as yo-yos, darts, stuffed animals, handheld electronic games [i.e. PSP, Gameboy], baseball cards, game cards, finger boards, water guns, squirt bottles, squirt guns, pacifiers, marbles, etc.) are not to be brought to school.  They will be confiscated and only returned to a parent/guardian.  Administration will not investigate lost/stolen valuables such as iPods, cell phones, toys of any kind, etc.

27. TRESPASSING – Students are not to be on campus after school hours or on weekends unless they are participating in a school-related activity with staff participation.

28. VANDALISM – Anyone who maliciously damages or defaces school property or that of another person is required by law to pay for damages.  This includes defacing school property with permanent marker or felt pen.  Immediate suspension and possible police contact may be required.  (P.C. 594)  Permanent pens are not allowed on campus.

 

END OF YEAR ACTIVITIES
The end of each school year brings special opportunities for extracurricular activities.   Participation in these end-of-year activities is a privilege that must be earned.  Students with less than satisfactory academic achievement or citizenship may be excluded from these activities.

 

SAN DIEGO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT 8TH GRADE PROMOTION POLICY
Eighth grade students, at the end of the school year, who have 2 or more F’s in any of the CORE subjects (English Language Arts, Mathematics, History or Science) are required to attend summer school in order to be promoted to ninth grade.

 

It is our hope that all students will be polite and practice good conduct. Good behavior is appreciated and rewarded. These are the Longfellow expectations:
• Bring supplies to school each day, including your planner, binder, paper, pencil.
• Bring signed materials from home.
• Be on time, be prepared, come to class ready to learn.
• Be courteous and respectful of others.
• Students must have a pass to be out of class.
• Follow school and classroom rules.
• Wear appropriate clothing.
• Respect school property and the property of others.
• Use appropriate language.
• Settle conflicts appropriately or ask for the help of an adult.
• Be responsible

ENSURING A SAFE & ORDERLY LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
1. Students are expected to walk on the school grounds and sidewalks.
2. Bicycles, skates, skateboards are not allowed in school.
3. Baseballs, footballs and other hard balls are not to be played on school campus unless in PE class under the supervision of a PE teacher.

 

FIGHTING/HORSEPLAY
Aggressive behavior toward other students, staff members, or campus visitors (hitting, kicking, pushing, etc.) is subject to suspension. Disciplinary actions will be taken against students who participate in "play fighting" or "horseplay." Fighting off-campus to and from school is considered a part of your school day. Therefore, any misconduct during this time is subject to disciplinary action.

 

ANTI-BULLYING POLICY
Bullying or harassment is not tolerated at Longfellow.

Bullying is defined as when someone keeps hurting, frightening, threatening, or excluding someone on purpose. It is the responsibility of each student to prevent bullying.  Bullying is not to be tolerated in school or on the bus.  Bullying behaviors include the following:
• Hurting someone physically by hitting, kicking, tripping or pushing
• Stealing or damaging another person’s things
• Ganging up on someone
• Teasing someone in a hurtful way
• Using put-downs, such as insulting someone’s race or making fun of someone being a boy or a girl
• Touching or showing private parts (This is also sexual harassment)
• Spreading rumors or untruths about someone

CYBERBULLYING/CYBERTHREATS – Safe learning environments are necessary for students to learn and achieve high academic standards.  Cyberbullying or cyberthreats include, but are not limited to the following misuses of technology under a person’s true or false identity:  harassing, teasing, intimidating, defaming, threatening, terrorizing, or otherwise intending to harm, insult, or humiliate another staff or student member by way of any technological tool, such as sending or posting inappropriate or derogatory e-mail messages, instant messages, text messages, sound, digital pictures of images, social websites, blogs, chat rooms, or website postings.  (E.C. 32261)  Parents are expected to monitor their child’s use of the internet and cyber sites at all times.

ASSEMBLY CONDUCT
Various assemblies will be scheduled throughout the school year. Students are expected to follow established guidelines. All students are expected to walk to the assembly with their teachers and sit quietly in the designated areas. All seats must be filled. Students are expected to behave in a mature manner during the assembly, and to extend the proper courtesies to those people conducting the presentation. Whistling, shouting or inappropriate noises are not acceptable.  At the conclusion, students should remain seated until specifically dismissed. Inappropriate behavior will result in the loss of assembly privileges and possible disciplinary action.

 

LONGFELLOW DRESS CODE
Longfellow students and staff expect high standards of conduct and appearance. How you dress not only reflects you, but your school and community as well. The way you dress often determines actions in and out of school. Clothing should be appropriate and comfortable for normal school activities. Students’ clothing and appearance should not be of such extreme that it draws undue attention to the student or detracts from the teaching and learning in the classroom.  If a student’s dress is not appropriate for school, the student will be sent to the administration office to call parents to bring a change of clothes or, if parents cannot be reached, they will use “loaner” clothes.  If the inappropriate dress continues, parents will be informed and there will be appropriate disciplinary consequences for defiance.
In order to promote the pursuit of excellence and develop responsible citizens with good behavior, the following codes for dress are required for all students and are not negotiable.  If the items of clothing or accessories are deemed inappropriate by school personnel, the student will be required to change and may be issued disciplinary consequences.
 

Pants, shorts and skirts
• Worn at the waist, no sagging
• Leggings must be worn with a blouse or shirt that reaches the mid-thigh
• Skirts and shorts no shorter than mid-thigh when seated
• No leggings, tights  or stockings under short shorts

Midriffs and immodest clothing
• Tank top straps must be greater than 2 inches wide
• No low cut armholes
• No tummy exposed when arms are raised
• Low cut tops are inappropriate, no exposed cleavage
• No see-through or provocative clothing

Shirts
• Cannot depict any profanity, violence, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, sexual act or is offensive to any gender, ethnicity, or faith

Shoes
• No slippers, flip-flops, sandals or open-toed shoes of any kind
• Heels cannot exceed 2 inches

Hats, caps, and hoods
• Not to be worn in class or indoors (except for medical or religious reasons)

Miscellaneous
• Any clothing, accessories, or colors that are associated with gangs are prohibited; this includes wallet chains, bandannas, hairnets, gloves, excessive jewelry, etc.
• Clothing and/or hats must not contain any depictions of profanity, violence, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, anything sexual, nor offensive to any gender, ethnicity or faith
• Sunglasses are not to be worn indoors unless prescribed by a doctor
• Pajamas are not allowed
• Trench coats are prohibited
• No gloves
• Writing on the body is not allowed
• A jacket, sweater, sweatshirt, etc., may not be worn to cover up inappropriate clothing.
• No acrylic nails
• Hoop earrings must be no larger than a quarter
• No makeup
• No perfume, cologne, or scented lotions

CELL PHONES
These devices MUST be kept in backpacks and turned OFF during school hours, if a student brings one to school. Visible or ringing cell phones will be confiscated and must be picked up by a parent or guardian. Second offences will result in disciplinary action. Repeated violations will result in further disciplinary actions.  The school is not responsible for lost cell phones, and the school administration strongly encourages students NOT to bring any valuables to school, including cell phones, due to theft risk.  Cell phone/video cameras are NOT allowed at school at any time.  Unauthorized use of such devices disrupts the instructional program and distracts from the learning environment.  Therefore, cell phones used in school will be confiscated by school officials including teachers.  Repeated use will result in disciplinary actions.

 

NETWORK USE POLICY
Computer/Internet Use – Students must have SDUSD Student Network Responsibility Contract on file before using any computer at school.  This contract outlines responsibilities, acceptable use, privileges, network etiquette, security and vandalism policies under the Network Use Guidelines.  Students must follow the Network Use Guidelines.  Violations may result in cancellation of computer privileges.

 

The use of the internet is a privilege, not a right.  Inappropriate use that does not support the teaching-learning process and the responsible use of unique resources online will result in cancellation of those privileges in school and disciplinary actions.

 

PROHIBITED ITEMS
Certain items are not to be brought onto school property because they can be considered dangerous, a nuisance, or not in keeping with an educational setting. Examples of such items include: knives, drugs, gun bullets, play guns, felt markers, spray paint, cap and water pistols, caps or fireworks, sling-shots, water balloons, portable radios, tape, CD players, IPODS or other electronic items.  If such items are brought to school, they will be confiscated and the student who brought them will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.   Parents will be required to pick up confiscated items from the office.    Administration will not investigate lost/stolen valuables such as ipods or cell phones, etc.

 

Students may not bring the following items to school:
• Playing cards, trading cards or magic cards
• Dice
• Electronic equipment (Cell phones, radios, tape players, CD players, IPODS, cameras, etc.) 
• Yo-Yo’s
• Permanent Markers and aerosol cans
• Toys of any kind
• Sharp, pointed scissors
• Laser pointers

REPORTING PROBLEMS TO ADULTS
If a student has a specific problem or concern, immediately bring your concern to one of your teachers, an administrator, a counselor, the office personnel, a lunch supervisor, or a custodian.  Students may also report bullying in the “Stop Bullying Box” in the Student Responsibility Center in Room 1

 

SAN DIEGO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT STUDENT NONDISCRIMINATION 
San Diego Unified School District is committed to equal opportunity for all individuals in education. District programs and activities shall be free from discrimination based on sex, race, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other unlawful consideration. The district shall promote programs that will ensure that discriminatory practices are eliminated in all district activities. Any student who engages in discrimination of another student or anyone from the district may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion. Any employee who permits or engages in discrimination may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

 

SAN DIEGO UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT SEXUAL HARASSMENT POLICY
San Diego Unified School District is committed to making the schools free from sexual harassment, and prohibits harassment made by someone from or in the educational setting.

 

Sexual harassment can be such actions as unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual favors; verbal, visual, or physical conduct of a sexual nature made by someone from or in the educational setting.

 

The district prohibits conduct that has the purpose or effect of having a negative impact on the student’s academic performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment.

 

The district further prohibits sexual harassment in which a student’s grades, benefits, services, honors, program, or activities are dependent on submission to such conduct.

 

Students should report any sexual harassment to their school principal, counselor, or teacher. Students who violate the policy shall be disciplined appropriately. This includes suspension or possible expulsion. Employees who violate the policy shall be disciplined according to personnel procedures.

 

The district believes that it can resolve harassment issues at the school site. If not, students may contact the Title IX Coordinator, Vira Villarreal, 4100 Normal St., Room 2244, San Diego, CA 92103; (619) 725-7329.

 

To File a Complaint: Parents or students who want to file a complaint must obtain a copy of the Uniform Complaint Form from the school or the district’s legal Office. Remedies available outside of the district are listed in this procedure. The district will immediately undertake an effective, thorough, and objective investigation of the harassment allegations and provide a written report within 60 days of when the complaint is filed. If the district determines that its policies prohibiting sexual harassment have been violated, disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion, will be taken.

 

The person filing the complaint may also pursue action in civil court. Complaints will be kept confidential. The district prohibits retaliation against any participant in the complaint process. Each complaint shall be investigated promptly and in a way that respects the privacy of all parties concerned.

 

ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY
The Board of Education has approved the following Zero Tolerance Policy which will result in students being expelled who possess weapons, engage in repeated fights or acts of violence, or are found in repeated possession of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco.

• A weapon is defined as a firearm, pistol replica, starter pistol, stun gun, BB gun or pellet gun, a knife of any size or type, a dirk, dagger, razor, slingshot, any explosives or fireworks. Any object used in a dangerous manner will also be considered a weapon. Use or possession of a weapon will result in your recommendation for expulsion.
• Repeated incidents of fighting, violent acts, or causing serious injury to another person will result in a recommendation for expulsion under the Zero Tolerance Policy.
• Our district has a NO alcohol, tobacco or other drug use policy. If you are found to be selling or furnishing controlled/prohibited substances you will be recommended for expulsion on your first offense. For possession or use, expulsion will be recommended on your third offense, except for tobacco offenses; if you are found in possession of tobacco you will be recommended for expulsion on your fourth offense.
• In addition to discipline, if you are found to have violated the law you may be arrested and taken to a juvenile detention facility.
• Expulsion from San Diego City School will result in the loss of your privileges to attend school or extracurricular activities. You may be placed in an alternative school or program.

The Zero Tolerance Policy is designed to make your school a safe environment and to provide an appropriate learning environment for you and other students. There can be no acceptable reason for violating these rules.  To view the complete policy, see Administrative Procedure 6295 at www.sandi.net.

 

It is the priority of the school and the district to ensure the safe and orderly transportation of all students.  Riding the bus is a privilege that should not be abused.  All bus students will be held accountable for their behavior to and from school.

 

The California Administrative Code, Title V, Section 14103 states:  “Pupils transported in a school bus or in a school pupil activity bus shall be under the authority of, and responsible directly to the driver of the bus, and the driver shall be held responsible for the orderly conduct of the pupils while they are on the bus or being escorted across a street, highway or road.  Continued disorderly conduct or persistent refusal to submit to the authority of the driver shall be sufficient reason for a pupil to be denied transportation.”   For more information, see District Procedure #5411 and #5415.

 

Bus drivers will write Bus Referrals for students who create unsafe conditions on the bus.  Some examples of student conduct that creates unsafe conditions include, but is not limited to, the following:

 

Moving from seat to seat
Standing/walking while the bus is in motion
Hitting/kicking other students (horseplay)
Bullying other students/driver
Throwing objects
Obscene/vulgar language directed at the driver
Using profanity 
Not respecting the rights of others
Drinking or eating food
Using a cell phone
Jumping/exiting from the bus at the wrong stop
Fighting with another student/s
Obscene/sexual behavior
Hitting/spitting on the driver
Vandalism

 

Students who create or are a part of an unsafe and/or disorderly condition on the bus will be subject to a Bus Referral.  Bus Referrals are subject to disciplinary action, which may entail suspension of bus riding privileges.   Parents will always be notified when their child receives a Bus Referral.

 

Consequences for Bus Referrals (Per District Procedure 5411):
First Referral: Generally only a warning, counseling of student; parent is informed.
Second Referral: 3 day suspension from riding the bus; parent is informed.
Third Referral: 5 day Suspension from riding the bus or on further field trips; parent is informed
Fourth Referral: 10 day Suspension from riding the bus or on any other field trips; parent is informed.
Fifth Referral: Suspension from the bus for the remainder of the semester; parent is informed.

 

 

The signatures below signify that both students and the parents have reviewed the handbook and understand the rules, policies, and guidelines of  Longfellow Spanish Immersion Middle School.

 

 
Student_________________________________________________
                                        (Print)

Student _________________________________________________
                                    (Signature)

Parent __________________________________________________                  
                                        (Print)

Parent __________________________________________________
                                    (Signature)

Date  ________________________________________        

     
Primary contact Number _______________________________