ABBOTT MIDDLE SCHOOL Parent-Student...

“Striving for Excellence”

ABBOTT MIDDLE SCHOOL

Parent-Student Handbook

2017 - 2018

Joe Hadley

Principal

Andrew Campbell

Assistant Principal

Kristen Holland & Carolyn World

Counselors

600 36th Avenue

San Mateo, California 94403-4199

http://abbott.smfcsd.net/

Telephone: 650-312-7600

Fax: 650-312-7605


Table of Contents

Abbott Vision Statement

District Vision Statement

Abbott School Colors

Abbott School Mascot

Bell Schedules

School Board Meetings

PTA Meetings

Required Materials

Homework

Textbooks

Physical Education Information

Special Education and Student Services

Academic Awards

Academic Eligibility

Promotion and Retention Expectations - All Grades

Attendance

Discipline Policy and Procedures

Prohibited Items and Behavior Expectations

District Disaster Preparedness Information for Parents

School Services

Student Activities

Positive Points Program

Student Guidelines

Transportation Safety

Miscellaneous

Campus Map

Other Useful links:

Abbott Middle School website

abbott.smfcsd.net/

Abbott Middle School Calendar

abbott.smfcsd.net/calendar-and-menu/school-calendar.html

San Mateo Foster City School District website

http://www.smfc.k12.ca.us/

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https://ams-smfc-ca.schoolloop.com/calendar

https://ams-smfc-ca.schoolloop.com/calendar

http://www.smfc.k12.ca.us/

https://ams-smfc-ca.schoolloop.com/

Abbott Vision Statement

At Abbott Middle School, we value mutual respect, empathy, good choices,

teamwork, and trust. We believe that a safe learning environment will promote

success for everyone. WE ARE ABBOTT!

District Vision Statement

The San Mateo-Foster City School District, educates and inspires students to live,

lead, and learn with integrity and joy.

Abbott School Colors

Green and White

Abbott School Mascot

Falcon

Bell Schedules

REGULAR SCHEDULE

WEDNESDAY MINIMUM DAY SCHEDULE

Warning bell 8:01 Warning bell 8:01

1st PERIOD 8:05 - 8:57 1ST PERIOD 8:05 - 8:43

2ND PERIOD 9:01 - 9:49 2ND PERIOD 8:47 - 9:22

3RD PERIOD 9:53 - 10:41 3RD PERIOD 9:26 - 10:01

4TH PERIOD 10:45 - 11:33 4TH PERIOD 10:05 - 10:40

LUNCH 11:33 - 12:09 5TH PERIOD 10:44 - 11:19



7TH PERIOD 1:57 - 2:45

School Board Meetings School Board meetings are held on Thursdays each month, at 7:00 pm, in

the Board Room, 1170 Chess Drive, Foster City. Go to the San Mateo

Foster City School District website for dates. The public is encouraged to

attend.

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PTA Meetings Abbott Middle School PTA meets in the Library Media Center at 7:00 pm. Check the Abbott

PTA website (abbott.digitalpto.com) for meeting dates. All parents are invited to attend

and participate.

Required Materials

All students are expected to arrive in class prepared to learn. Please check the Abbott

website for current grade-level material lists.

Homework

Homework is an important extension of Abbott’s instructional program. Students should

plan to spend roughly one hour to ninety minutes per night on homework, or about twenty

to thirty minutes per academic subject. Homework is usually assigned Monday through

Thursday. Except under unusual circumstances, homework assignments are not due on

Mondays unless advance notice is given. Homework MUST BE completed and turned in on

time. Late homework, if accepted, will not be given full credit. The only exception is

excused absences. Homework turned in late due to an excused absence is accepted at a

rate of one day late for each day of absence, with the exception of projects.

SchoolLoop is our online homework monitoring system. Students and parents can check on

missing assignments, find out about homework, and communicate with teachers. Students

must register first, then parents can log on to SchoolLoop from the Abbott Middle School homepage to register. Parents are strongly encouraged to have a SchoolLoop account.

Textbooks

Textbooks are distributed at the beginning of the school year. Each student is responsible

for the care of issued books and is expected to pay for lost or damaged books. A student

should be sure his/her name appears on the front inside cover of all assigned textbooks.

Please see the “Fees for Damaged Books” section for details of fees.

Physical Education Information

Due to the nature of physical education class, students are required to change into

appropriate activity attire. The Abbott physical education uniform is available for

voluntary purchase from the PE department. Athletic shoes are required for full

participation in all PE class activities. You may purchase your own athletic wear for P.E.

The dress code for P.E. is green top and plain gray or black bottoms. No logo, designs,

artwork, etc. are allowed on P.E. uniforms. For health and safety reasons, students who

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are not prepared for class will not be allowed to fully participate in class activities and may

lose participation points.

Students who are dressed for P.E. will participate in all activities unless a medical excuse

note is received from a parent or legal guardian. Notes must specify the dates to be

excused and specific activities that cannot be performed. A parent may only excuse a

student from activity up to three days. If a student is still unable to participate fully after

three days, a doctor’s note is required.

Special Education and Student Services

The San Mateo-Foster City School District offers Special Education programs for children

with special needs who meet the strict eligibility requirements specified in Federal and

State regulations. Special Education programs include:

● Special Day Classes serve pupils with more intensive learning needs for the majority

of the school day.

● Resource Specialist Program provides direct instruction to individuals and small

groups for one to two class periods of the school day. The RSP teacher also helps

classroom teachers to identify and assess pupils with learning needs, assists in the

preparation and implementation of instructional plans, monitors pupil progress, and

provides in-service training at the school.

● Speech and Language services are provided to students with moderate to severe

communication disorders.

● Counseling and Therapy services are provided to students who qualify via referral to our partners in County Mental Health.

Academic Awards

Academic Awards will be presented after each report card period to acknowledge and

recognize the efforts and successes of all students. Students receive certificates

highlighting their excellent scholarship based on grade point average.

8TH Grade Scholarships ● Al Colum Memorial Award -This monetary award is given to deserving eighth graders who

have consistently displayed exemplary citizenship, integrity, kindness and honesty toward all

fellow students and staff. It is not based on financial need or academic success. The Abbott

staff nominates and votes for the recipients of this award.

● Albert Landucci Awards -Three Landucci Awards are given in the areas of Outstanding Academic Achievement, Outstanding Service, and Outstanding Math/Science

Achievement.

● Craig Newgard Memorial Scholarship - A contribution to a college scholarship given to deserving African American students.

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● Latinos del Futuro - A contribution to strive toward higher education at a community or

four-year college given to deserving Latino students.

● Rotary Scholarship - A contribution given to encourage deserving students to continue their education beyond high school.

● San Mateo Youth Foundation Incentive Scholarship Program - A contribution given to deserving students who strive to continue their education beyond high school.

● Superintendent’s Perfect Attendance Award - The Superintendent’s Award for Perfect Attendance is given to those eighth grade graduates who have an exemplary record of

attendance (no excused or unexcused absences, or independent study) and have had no

tardies for all three years at the same middle school. Students absent due to a religious

holiday will not be disqualified.

● Superintendent’s 4.0 Scholar Award - The Superintendent’s 4.0 Scholar Award is given to those eighth graders who have earned promotion and who have earned a 4.0 GPA for all

three years. A- grades do not count towards this award.

● William F. Turnbull Award - The Turnbull Award given to the student who has the best combined outstanding service and academic achievement. This award is rotated among

all four middle schools on an annual basis.

● Ennon Education Scholarship - In honor of Cathy Ennon’s dedication to the youth of our community, the PTA Board of Directors will award two scholarships for education, in

perpetuity, to one 8th grade male and one 8th grade female to be chosen by the teaching

staff and administration.

Rewards/Positive Recognition

Abbott staff members use one or more of the following to support positive decision making

inside the classroom and on the campus in general:

● Positive Points Program recognition

● End-of-the-year field trips

● Awards Assembly recognition

● Free mile or cardio passes

● Homework Pass

Academic Eligibility

Students must maintain an acceptable level of academic achievement (minimum 2.0

GPA) and citizenship in order to participate in extracurricular activities as well as

student leadership roles.

Promotion and Retention Expectations - All Grades

Any student in grades six, seven, and eight who does not maintain an acceptable academic

level on their third quarter report card will be placed in academic jeopardy until the end

of the school year.

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All students still in academic jeopardy at the end of the school year may not participate in

any end-of-the-year activities and may have to attend summer school. Sixth and seventh

graders still in academic jeopardy at the end of the school year may be offered a summer

school placement in order to go to the next grade. Additionally, Eighth Graders in academic

jeopardy will not be eligible to participate in the Promotion Ceremony or any

promotion-related activities.

Any eighth grade student who owes for uncollected funds, lost textbooks, repair of a

musical instrument, return of library books, return of a sports uniform, or has an overdue

bill for lost or damaged textbooks or library books from previous years is responsible for

clearing all bills before participating in the Promotion Ceremony or related activities.

Attendance

Absence

If your child is going to be absent, please call to report his/her absence. Our 24-hour

voicemail number is 650-312-7600 extension 3. Give the child's name, grade, date(s) of

absence and reason for absence. If a phone call or note is not received in the attendance

office within three days, the absence will be classified as unexcused.

If students do not attend school during the day for at least four periods either in the

morning or afternoon, they will not be allowed to attend after school activities such as play

rehearsal, sports activities, dances, etc. Students who show up to school with only one or

two periods left in the school day will not be allowed to attend after school activities.

Research has shown that one of the most important indicators of success in school is regular

attendance. Additionally, the district loses money for each day a student is out of school,

even if it is an excused absence such as an illness. It is important for students to be in

school and on time every day possible. If a student has a dental, doctor, court, etc.

appointment during the day, he/she should attend school either before or after the

appointment. A full day of school should not be sacrificed for one appointment. Also,

please note that “Take Your Child To Work” day and shadowing at other schools are

UNEXCUSED absences.

Early Dismissal

When a student has to leave school before regular dismissal time for an appointment

(dental, doctor, trip, etc.) the student should bring a note to the office before school starts stating the reason and time of departure.

Late Arrival

School begins at 8:01 am with a warning bell. At 8:05 am classes start. Students should

always report to the office before going to class when arriving to school late. A note or call

from the parent explaining the reason the student is late should be furnished to the office.

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Parents can leave absence or late arrival messages on the 24-hour voicemail system at

650-312-7600 ext. 3.

Consequences for tardy students are as follows:

● First tardy – Warning

● Second tardy – Campus beautification

● Third tardy – Campus beautification

● Fourth tardy – Campus beautification and conference with parent/guardian

● Fifth tardy - 1-hour after school detention (Parent/guardian must pick up student)

Truancy

Truancy is excessive tardiness, cutting classes or school, or excessive unexcused absences

from school. Tardiness to classes will result in detention.

When a student has accumulated three or more full-day unexcused absences, or three

unexcused tardies of more than 30 minutes duration each, the student is classified as a

truant. At this time a letter must be sent to the family, notifying them that:

1. The pupil is truant;

2. The parent is obligated to compel attendance;

3. If parents fail to comply, they may be prosecuted under the law;

4. That alternative education programs may be available;

5. That they have a right to meet with the school.

A meeting between parents, school administrators or school counselor may be scheduled to

consider ways to encourage regular attendance and to promote success in school.

Students may be excused without prior approval for any of the following reasons; however,

such absences may not be claimed by the district for purposes of computing average daily

attendance:

1. Illness - verified by phone or parent note

2. Funeral services for a member of the immediate family limit of one day within

California or three days out of state (immediate family includes mother, father,

grandmother, grandfather, brother, sister, or any relative living in the immediate

household of the student.)

3. Professional appointments - doctors, dentists, professional counseling

4. Quarantine

5. Immunization

6. Appearance in court

7. Observance of a holiday or ceremony of his or her religion

For the complete policy please access the San Mateo-Foster City School District Web Site at

www.smfcsd.net. For a copy of the policy you may contact the district office at

650-312-7700.

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http://www.smfcsd.net/

Discipline Policy and Procedures

Our Vision

The staff of Abbott Middle School wants Abbott to be the very best place for students to

attend school. We are committed to providing a safe and orderly environment for all

students. Rules and consequences are necessary to create and maintain an atmosphere

that is conducive to learning. Our discipline policy and procedures are built upon the belief

that each student has the right to learn, and each teacher has the right to teach. In order

to maintain a safe, orderly environment, we will apply consequences when students choose

to break rules or fail to make decisions that are consistent with the stated Responsibilities

and Rights of the San Mateo-Foster City School District and the Abbott Middle School

Discipline Policy. We will implement parents’/students’ rights and procedural guidelines

that insure a timely and equitable process for resolving disputes/issues. A computer record

of any and all disciplinary action taken with students will be maintained throughout the

school year. Parents may request a copy from the school at any time.

As required by the Ed Code for the State of California, parents and students will be advised

of the school’s disciplinary vision, policies, and process procedures on an annual basis.

Some disciplinary procedures are informal and may include restorative conferences,

behavior contracts, parent meetings, campus beautification, etc. Parents will always be

informed of more serious disciplinary action and consequences for their students. In cases

involving violation of local, State or Federal Laws, the proper authorities will be notified.

Prohibited Items and Behavior Expectations In accordance with our values as a learning community, students are prohibited from

bringing the following items to campus which disrupt the learning environment. In order to

avoid major personal property loss, vandalism, class/campus disruption, the items below

are not recommended or prohibited on campus:

We recommend that these items

not be brought to school. If

they are in a student’s

possession, they must be put

away during class time.

Unless explicitly required by a teacher these items

are not permitted.

The following items are

strictly forbidden (prohibited) on campus at all times

● Cell phones and other

electronic devices

● Toys and games

● Money

● Cameras

● Large amounts of

food/candy

● Gum

● Items for sale

● Permanent markers (Ultra

Fine Point OK)

● Laser pointers

● Blankets

● Lighters

● Weapons (real or fake)

● Drugs (including prescription

and over the counter drugs)

● Alcohol

● Clothing that violates the

dress code

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Abbott Middle School has insisted Positive Behavior Intervention and Support (PBIS), a set of

behavior expectations that help students understand appropriate behavior in an educational

environment. Students are reminded of appropriate behavior at the beginning of each

school year and are expected to follow the behavior expectations. If students do not act

appropriate PBIS places importance on reteaching expected behaviors, logical

consequences, restorative actions and disciplinary action when appropriate.

Abbotts current behavior expectations for each area of campus are detailed below:

SCHOOL WIDE Be Safe Be Responsible Be Respectful

SCHOOL WIDE ● Keep hands and feet to yourself

● If you see something unsafe, immediately report it to an adult

● Clean up after yourself ● Take responsibility for

your actions ● Gum is prohibited

● Respect people’s personal space

● Remove hats and hoods indoors

● Phones turned off and put away

● Use appropriate language

Common Area Be Safe Be Responsible Be Respectful

Classroom ● Enter and exit rooms calmly

● Keep hands and feet to yourself

● Respect the materials

● Be in your seat when the bell rings

● Be prepared with materials

● Use time wisely, complete assignments, and write down your homework

● Keep the classroom clean and neat

● Bathroom breaks, follow the 10/10 rule

● Focus on the lesson ● Follow instructions ● Make positive and

constructive contributions

● Use materials appropriately

● Remove hats and hoods

● Respect each other’s personal space

Hallways ● Walk on the right side ● Keep hands and feet

to yourself ● Carry your sports

equipment ● Keep clear of the

doors’ red lines

● Keep voices calm (volume 1-2)

● Keep language clean ● Listen to all staff

members’ instructions ● Use your locker at

appropriate times ● When travelling as a

class, walk quietly (0-1)in a single-file line

● Pick up your trash ● Move with purpose ● Have a hall pass during

class time ● Allow for passing traffic ● Respect other

classrooms and learning environments

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Lunch Court

● Walk to food line, and wait patiently for your turn

● Keep hands and feet to yourself

● Throwing food is prohibited

● Sit while you eat

● Be prepared with your food orders and payment

● Put trash in the trash bins,and recycling in the recycling bins

● Respect fellow students, lunch box staff, and volunteers

● After you receive your food, walk to the lunch court

● Eat in the lunch court ● Be inclusive in the

lunch courts ● Clean up after yourself

Restrooms ● Wash your hands ● Report any

maintenance or cleanliness issues to your teacher

● Sign out when you leave class

● Follow the 10/10 rules ● Use the nearest

restroom ● Flush when finished ● Return directly to class

and sign in when you return

● Clean up after yourself ● Maintain privacy ● Maintain appropriate

restroom etiquette ● Maintain appropriate

restroom volume (0-2) ● Cell phone use

prohibited in restroom

Locker rooms ● Be aware of other’s personal space

● Keep your hands and feet to yourself at all times

● Dress quickly ● Clean up and leave

promptly ● Bring your PE clothes

daily ● Wear clean PE clothes

· ● Be respectful of other’s belongings

● Phones need to be away and off

· ● Keep voices low (between 0 and 2)

Arrival & Dismissal ● Exit and enter car at a safe, curbside location

● Walk bikes on campus ● Wear helmets while

riding bikes ● Use crosswalks

● Lock your bike at bike rack

● Store skateboards/ scooters in designated area

● Stay in East Field until campus opens at 7:45 AM

● Leave campus within 5 minutes of final bell

● Follow bus rules and driver’s instructions

● Enter and exit bus single file, allowing for personal space

● Remain seated at all times on the bus

● Use appropriate language and volume (1-2) on the bus

East Field & West Courtyard

● Use equipment properly and safely

● Walk your skateboards, scooter, or bicycles while on campus

● Ask an adult for help if you need to go somewhere you aren’t normally allowed to go

● Clean up after yourself ● Stay dry during rainy

weather

● Respect people’s personal space

● Use good sportsmanship

● Use appropriate language

● Allow for passing traffic

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Main office

● Wait patiently at the counter for your turn

● Use the student door for entering/exiting

● Enter quietly and calmly (noise level 0 or 2)

● Take care of your business and then return to class

● Respect other’s private conversations

● Treat office staff respectfully

Auditorium/stage – events

● Enter and exit silently (0) and orderly

● Keep aisles clear

● Actively listen to the presentation or performance

● Participate appropriately, as requested

● Respond appropriately to performances

● Respect the presenter and/or performers

● Use appropriate volume, as requested by presenter

Library ● Use proper entrance and exit

● Leave backpacks in designated area

● Return books on time ● Bring ID to check out

books ● Leave food and drink

outside ● Return/renew books in

designated area ● Push in chairs when

you get up/leave ● Pay fines when

appropriate

● Use a quiet, indoor voice (level 0 – 1)

● Treat the books with care

● Line up and wait your turn at the counter

● Let the librarian put the books away

● Share access to the computers

For more information about conduct eligible for suspension and/or expulsion the text of the

California Educational Code can be read here.

District Disaster Preparedness Information for Parents

The Basic Emergency Plan for the San Mateo-Foster City School District has been prepared

in cooperation with State, County, City, and District officials. The plan includes specific

courses of action to be taken in case of emergency. All employees of this District are

familiar with this plan in order that they will be prepared to carry out their responsibilities

in any emergency. The plan addresses the welfare and safety of children and employees,

and addresses the use of District facilities as a community resource for the care of people

under emergency conditions. The major objectives of emergency preparedness are to save

lives and protect property in the event of an emergency.

The purpose of each school's plan is to outline activities, actions, and duties which the

school staff and students may be called upon to execute in an emergency. The school plans

detail all procedures that are unique to the particular school. The procedures have been

developed based on the following:

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https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=EDC&division=4.&title=2.&part=27.&chapter=6.&article=1.

● It shall be the practice of the San Mateo-Foster City School District to retain students

until officially released in person to parents or authorized persons during a disaster situation.

● In the event of a disaster, the school campus will be secured so that all students can

be accounted for and released to parents in the prescribed manner. If evacuation of

buildings is necessary, all students and District personnel at each school will

assemble in one predetermined area to be within visual and vocal contact of the site

administrator. All San Mateo-Foster City School District personnel are expected to

remain and fulfill their disaster responsibilities until such time as they are relieved.

All schools in the San Mateo-Foster City School District meet the Field Act regarding

earthquake standards and regulations. Evacuation from the school site will be implemented

upon direction and orders from disaster agencies and District administration.

Fire and Earthquake drills are conducted each semester. Lock down drills are scheduled

twice a year.

The District Basic Emergency Plan and the school Preparedness Plan are available through

the office of the principal.

Make sure your child’s emergency contacts are always current.

District personnel and/or the site administrator will provide information via the school

messenger service, in addition to taking any other steps deemed necessary to keep parents

informed throughout the emergency situation.

In Event of a District Emergency

In the event of an emergency disaster, our Emergency Operations Center will be activated.

We will be linked to local fire, police and medical personnel. Because of the nature of

some disasters, it is important that parents are aware of the following guidelines:

1. For information, call the District office at 650-312-7700. We will make every effort

to have individuals available to answer your questions. In the event phones are not

operating, information will be broadcasted through local radio and TV stations.

2. Information updates will be broadcast at regularly determined intervals not more

than every three hours.

3. We will determine, with local emergency agencies, the safest course of action for

your child’s well-being. Sometimes, it is not safe or feasible to pick up your child

where you usually pick them up.

4. Please be aware that for the safety of your child, we will take precautions to make

sure that your child is released with proper identification and documentation.

5. Please make sure to keep your child’s emergency information up-to-date.

In case of emergency, civic disaster or natural event such as a power outage that might

affect the operations of our schools, tune to the following radio and TV stations for the

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most current information: KCBS, 740 AM (San Francisco); KGO, 810 AM (San Francisco);

KSOL 98.9 FM (Spanish language).

More information can be found on the Emergency Response section of the District Website

School Services

The Children’s Annex After School Program

Middle school students attend the Abbott Clubhouse. The Children’s Annex programs are

also available during intersession, and in the summer. There are monthly fees due in

advance on the first of the month for full or partial week programs. For further information

regarding the Children's Annex call 312-7706.

Contacting Your Child’s Teacher

Parents often ask, "What is the best way for me to communicate with my child's teacher?"

It is recommended that parents use SchoolLoop or telephone the school office for

connection to the teacher’s voicemail to make initial contact. Voicemail messages will be

returned as quickly as possible. Telephone calls are not put through to classrooms during

the school day. SchoolLoop provides email contact with teachers.

Counseling

The guidance and counseling program is an important facet of the middle school program as

students grow from a self-contained program in elementary schools to a more independent

departmental one in middle school. Counselors are available to assist students, parents and

teachers in resolving academic, personal, and social problems. Parents are welcome to call

the counselor, and students may see the counselor by filling out an appointment request

found in the office. Counselors can make referrals to outside agencies if needed.

Food Services and Lunch Procedures

All students are to remain at school during lunch. Students must remain in supervised areas

at all times. These areas include the East Field, West Courtyard, lunch court, library or

classrooms, and levels two and three.

Students may bring lunch from home or purchase lunch in the lunch serving area. In order

to help maintain a clean campus, all food or beverages must be consumed in the lunch

court or on rainy days, in the gym.

Only plain water is allowed outside the lunch court. Students are required to dispose of

trash and recyclables in the appropriate containers and to recycle plastics and glass items.

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http://smfcsd.net/en/parent-reference/emergency-preparedness.html

http://smfcsd.net/en/parent-reference/emergency-preparedness.html

The district food services program includes planning, preparation, and serving of nutritious

food to district students and staff. Go to the SMFCSD website at http://www.smfcsd.net

for information about the lunch program.

Students use bar-coded student ID cards to purchase lunches. Lunch can be prepaid by

check to the office or LunchBox. Make checks payable to: Child Nutrition Department (a

separate check for each child). MySchoolbucks.com is a convenient online service that

allows parents to make payments to their child’s meal account using Visa, MasterCard or a

Debit card.

If children bring a lunch, they may purchase milk or other beverages separately.

Free or reduced-price lunches are provided for children whose families are financially

unable to meet the daily cost of school lunches. There shall be no discrimination in the

furnishing of free or reduced-price meals because of race, religion, source of family

income, or any other reason.

Applications for free or reduced-price meals may be obtained from the school office.

Applications must include a current, complete statement of family income as required by

state and federal law and must be filled out every year.

Adult supervision is provided for the entire lunch period. Some parents may wish their

children to go home for lunch. If so, a written request should be sent to the school office.

When children leave school or return to school, they should go to the school office for

check-out when leaving and check-in when returning and then report to their next class.

Home Teaching

Home teaching is provided to any San Mateo-Foster City child who is confined to home or

hospital by lengthy illness. Call 650-312-7334 for more information.

Independent Study Option

The Board of Trustees of the District has taken action to allow independent study options

for students in grades one through eight. Independent study is intended to provide an

alternative to the regular program of study to meet unique educational needs of individual

students, and is a voluntary program. Although providing such options, the Board recognizes

that the ideal situation for students is continued attendance at school so they can take

advantage of systematic instruction and interaction with their peers, as well as discussions,

hands-on math and science experiences, and other activities that extend far beyond that

provided by the textbook. Research shows that the more time students spend under the

direction of a teacher, the better they learn.

Independent study may be granted under the following options:

Continuing independent study programs may extend to one period per day or equivalent

time at middle school level, in order to:

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● Engage in advanced study in an academic area, fine arts, or physical education under

the direction of an authorized coach or teacher;

● Participate in career exploration or pre-vocational activities.

Short-term independent study programs may extend for not less than 5 and not more than

10 consecutive school days once during the school year in grades 1 to 8 in order to:

● conduct in-depth research or field work in a specific area of interest;

● carry out special study in connection with educational travel;

● complete and submit for evaluation essential schoolwork during unavoidable absence

from the classroom.

Short-term independent study programs will be approved no more than three times for a

given student in grades 1 to 8. Students who are performing below grade-level standard are

not eligible for an independent study contract. Special education students are eligible for

an independent study contract if specified by their Individualized Education Plan (I.E.P.)

Independent study may be initiated by parents or by the school. Parents who request this

option should contact the school at least two weeks in advance, except in cases of

emergency. Independent study requests are subject to approval by the classroom teacher,

principal and Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, and may be denied based on

the student's academic needs.

Parent Conferences

Communication among parents, teachers, and school personnel is essential to a successful

educational program. The district and schools communicate student progress to parents

through several means. A parent conference is of importance in communicating

information about your child's progress during the school year, as it provides an opportunity

for exchange of information between you and your child's teacher on his/her academic and

emotional growth. In addition to our one formal conference, you may arrange a conference

at any time by contacting the appropriate teacher(s).

School Site Council – School Governance

All of the District’s schools receive state funds to help them reach their academic goals, as

indicated by their Single Plan For Student Achievement (SPSA). Each school has a Site

Council composed of parents, teachers, classified staff, students and the principal to

oversee the allocation of funds supplied by the State and Federal Government. It is the

mandate of the Site Council to approve funding and then ensure that the funds are used in

the best way possible to raise achievement for all students while closing the achievement

gap.

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Student Activities

After School Sports Program

The Abbott After School Sports Program is open to all students

who are in good academic standing. In the fall and winter,

grade level boys’ and girls’ basketball teams compete with

other schools. There is also girls’ volleyball competition. In

the spring, a co-educational track team practices and competes

in track meets with other middle schools. Students interested

in participating should listen for details in the daily Student

Bulletin or ask a PE teacher. The complement of after school sports depends on having

resources available to fund each sport. Participation in after school sports is a privilege. If

students do not attend school during the day for at least four periods either in the morning

or afternoon, they will not be allowed to attend after school sports activities.

Lunchtime Activities

The Library Media Center is open at lunch on specific days. Students

may drop in to study, check out books, or use the computers. Check

the daily Student Bulletins for other activity schedules and locations.

Students are also welcome to organize their own games; athletic

equipment can be checked out from the equipment room.

Student Activities Program

Abbott Middle School students are encouraged to show their school spirit and participate in

the many student activities held throughout the school year. These activities are held on

school grounds and are only for Abbott students. Student Activities include: Movie Night,

Spirit Week lunchtime activities, Spirit Week dress-up days, Pennies for Patients, Trick or

Treat for UNICEF, Canned Food Drive, Toy Drive, Winter Holiday Grams, Valentine’s Grams,

Maze Day, and so much more!

Associated Student Body (ASB)/Leadership

Working together in student government is a way for students to get involved in their school

community and take pride in being an Abbott Falcon! The Abbott Student Council is the

governing body of the school. The Student Council consists of elected class officials, as

well as the homeroom representatives who attend meetings and make decisions on behalf

of their homerooms. The Student Council oversees the budget for student activities and is

the governing branch of the Associated Student Body (ASB).

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The Leadership class is responsible for organizing all student activities here at Abbott. The

students have direct input and direction over the activities that occur throughout the school

year. Leadership students are responsible for many aspects of student life such as movie

nights, lunchtime activities, spirit weeks and many other student activities. The class is entirely student-driven, and all of the events we coordinate are run and organized by

student commissioners. The members of the Leadership class also learn a class curriculum

centered on: government, civil rights, advertising, public speaking, and personal growth

and leadership. Students must apply in order to be a member of the class. Applications

become available in March for the following school year.

6th and 7th grade students can run to be class officers for the following school year. Class

officers include the president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer. Class officers

attend each Student Council meeting and represent the interests of their grade level. Each

homeroom class selects one Homeroom Representative to attend the monthly Student

Council meetings. The Homeroom Representatives vote on important matters, bring up any

topics for discussion, and communicate the meeting’s agenda to their homeroom class.

Positive Points Program PPP is a social responsibility program that rewards you for your hard work. You earn points

based on your GPA, activities, and community service. If you earn enough points, you get to

participate in some fun rewards.

How it works

● Every grading period, you earn points based on your grade point average. The higher

the GPA, the more points you earn.

● You can earn points from doing community service. You are required to do at least 2

hours to attend the year end trip. 1 point per hour of service.

● You also earn points participating in sports, the play, clubs, and other on campus

activities. 1 point per activity.

● You lose points when you make choices that are not positive; referrals, overdue

library books, etc.

○ 1 point for each overdue library book per week it is late.

○ 3 points if you receive a referral from a teacher or staff member.

○ 5 points if you are suspended from school or the bus.

How you earn points

There are 7 grading periods that you earn points from. If you maintain a 2.0 or higher, you

will be able to attend most of the rewards throughout the year.

The higher the GPA, the more points you will earn.

● 4.0= 18 points

● 3.5-3.99= 17 points

● 3.0-3.49 = 16 points

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● 2.5-2.99= 15 points

● 2.0-2.49= 14 points

● 1.5-1.99= 10 points

● 1.0-1.49= 9 points

● Under 1.0= 0 points

Community Service

● In order to attend the year end field trips, you MUST do at least 2 hours of community service.

● See your advisor for a GREEN Pre-Approval Community Service/Activity Credit Form.

● Once you pick one up from your advisor you will bring it with you for an adult in

charge of the service/activity to fill out.

● After you have completed the hours and the form is filled in, return the form

back to your PPP advisor.

● You are required to do 2 hours of community service to attend the year end trips!

● Each semester, you are allowed to do UP TO 10 hours of pre-approved service.

● The most hours you can get credit for in one school year is 20!

All hours MUST be pre-approved. If the GREEN form is not filled out, you will NOT get

credit for the hours. No excuses!

Acceptable Community Service

● Volunteering at food banks, shelters, churches, animal shelters, Samaritan house,

etc.

● City wide and beach clean ups

● Any volunteer work in the community

● Helping a teacher in their classroom

● Working in the lunchbox (2.5 points per week)

*ALL HOURS MUST BE PRE-APPROVED BY YOUR PPP ADVISOR!!

Unacceptable Community Service

● Going to work with your parents

● Babysitting your siblings

● Missing school to complete the service

● Getting paid for the service

Activity Points

You will earn activity points for participating in school activities. Each activity you do will

be worth 1 positive point. It is up to the coach, club leader, teacher to determine when an

activity has been completed.

Activities include:

● School clubs

● School sports

● Campus Climate Committee

● School Site Council

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● Intramurals

● Afterschool events such as playing in band concerts, working leadership events, the

play, and taking pictures for yearbook.

Activity credits also require a green pre-approval form. See your advisor for a Green

Form!

Year-end trips

In order to attend the year end trips, you must do the following:

● Complete your required Pre-approved 2 hours of community service

● Earn AT LEAST 100 points

● Turn in your consent form from the beginning of the school year

Where are the year-end trips?

● 6th graders - Golfland, San Jose

● 7th graders - Raging Waters

● 8th graders - Great America, Santa Clara

What do the PPP advisors do?

● Each grade level has 2 PPP advisors.

● The alphabet is split by last names A-L and M-Z

● Your advisor is who you go to with questions, to pick up and turn in your community

service form, and to check your point totals.

● After each grading period, your PPP advisor will post your point totals by ID number

outside their door.

● If you ever have any questions, your advisor is there to help you, don’t hesitate to

ask!

Who are the PPP advisors?

6th Grade Last names A-L TBD Last names M-Z TBD

7th Grade Last names A-L TBD Last name M-Z TBD

8th Grade Last names A-L TBD Last names M-Z TBD

In addition to the grade level advisors, you may also see Mrs. Marcone in room 30 if you have any questions.

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In order to participate in any PPP activity, students and a parent/guardian must sign and date the final page of the packet. Students that do not have this form completed will not be allowed to participate in any PPP reward/activity, even if they have qualified.

Student Guidelines

Backpacks

In order to safeguard personal belongings and school materials, students are urged to

protect their backpacks by never leaving them unattended. Do not bring large amounts of

money or valuable items to school. ABBOTT IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR PREVENTING OR

INVESTIGATING LOSS OR THEFT OF ANY ITEMS BROUGHT TO SCHOOL.

Discrimination and Harassment

Abbott Middle School and the San Mateo-Foster City School District do not tolerate

harassment of any kind. Abbott’s No Bully Program provides a process to address issues of

bullying and harassment.

Although there are many forms of harassment in middle school, students need to be aware

of bullying behavior that intimidates, teases, threatens, or in any way victimizes other

students or persons on campus.

Actions, words, comments, inappropriate remarks, dirty looks, bumps, on-line or

cyberbullying are often ways in which students harass other students.

Our District Policy states that any student who intentionally engages in harassment, threats,

or intimidation directed against a student or groups of students is subject to receive serious

disciplinary action.

All harassment is prohibited, including harassment based on a person’s race, religion,

gender, sexual orientation, or ethnic group.

Any student who has a question/concern about harassment should speak to a teacher,

counselor, or an administrator.

Dress Requirements

Abbott Middle School recognizes that the type and style of clothing and/or hairstyle are

individual and personal choices. Several things influence our expectations for what is

acceptable and unacceptable. However, we do not want students attending school dressed

in a manner that is apt to be distracting or offensive to others, that is unsafe, or that

represents an unhealthy lifestyle. We expect our students to accept responsibility as

students and to dress in a manner that is befitting the positive image we want projected by

the students who attend our school.

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● All parts of the torso* must be covered at all times. This includes low cut necklines

and back lines. Spaghetti strapped tank tops (of less than 2” straps) are not allowed.

● Headgear must be removed once inside any school building. This includes scarves,

bandanas, caps, hoodies, etc.

● No exposure of undergarments.

● No sagging pants.

● No pajamas or slippers. Bare feet or stocking feet are never allowed.

● Blankets are to be left at home.

● Student possessions or clothing with inappropriate writing, slogans, pictures or

designs are unacceptable. Abbott prohibits pictures, emblems, or writing on

clothing, buttons, jewelry, or school materials, which are obscene, offensive,

sexually suggestive or that depict tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, drugs,

weapons or any other prohibited substance.

● Clothing or accessories which indicates gang involvement are never allowed.

● All shorts, skorts, skirts, dresses, etc. must be mid-thigh length or longer.

*Torso: the trunk of the human body excluding the head and limbs (arms and legs).

ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN

The disciplinary process that will be used to address all students who are non-compliant is

as follows:

● First Offense: Student must change, go home or parent brings a change of clothes.

● Second Offense: Student must change, go home or parent brings a change of clothes

and serve detention for one hour after school.

● Third Offense: One hour after school detention and Parent/Guardian conference.

Financial Liability

Students who destroy or vandalize school property can be held financially responsible for

repair or replacement of that property.

Gang Activity

Gang activity is prohibited on all school grounds by DISTRICT POLICY and CALIFORNIA EDUCATION CODE . Overt use of gang colors, writing, clothing, etc. is not allowed.

Lockers and Desks

Lockers and desks are under the joint control of the student and the district. School

officials have the right and ability to open and inspect any school locker or desk without

student permission or prior notice when there is a reasonable suspicion that the search will

uncover evidence of illegal possessions or activities.

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Transportation Safety

Bus Rules

The following bus transportation rules have been established by the

district for the safety of our students. Parents are requested to review

these rules with their children. Citations will be issued by the bus driver

for any violations listed below and a notice will be forwarded to you

from school:

1. Any improper bus stop procedures (not lining up, not boarding the first

available bus, rock throwing,playing in streets, any property damage at bus stop, etc.).

2. Using other than the student’s regularly designated bus stop.

3. Fighting at bus stop or on bus.

4. Scuffling or excessive horseplay (hitting, poking, shoving, etc.) in or while loading or

unloading the bus.

5. Using profane or obscene language or gestures.

6. Any movement from seats while bus is in motion.

7. Any seat saving or obstruction of aisles or any turning around in seats.

8. Unauthorized exits from emergency doors or windows.

9. Putting any part of body out of bus windows at any time

10. Throwing any object on, out of, or at bus.

11. Any damage or defacing of bus.

12. Unauthorized opening, closing, or tampering of any kind with bus controls, equipment,

doors, windows or exits.

13. Creating excessive noise.

14. Eating, drinking or littering of any sort on the bus.

15. Lighting of matches, cigarettes or smoking on bus.

16. Transporting live animals, reptiles or insects on a school bus.

17. Disrespect or failure to obey bus driver.

18. Carrying any weapon or hazardous materials that may endanger lives.

19. Riding bus after receiving suspension of bus riding privilege.

20. Other unauthorized action.

Authority of Driver (Section 6-5CAC 14105 and 13-CAC 1217 (h) states: “Pupils transported

in a school bus and/or SamTrans 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. Bad conduct or refusal to submit to the authority of

the driver shall be sufficient reason for a pupil to be denied transportation. The driver of a

school bus shall not eject any school pupil unless the pupil is given into the custody of a

parent or any person designated by the parent or school.”

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Penalties for infractions of established rules are listed below:

1st citation – Warning of possible bus riding suspension.

2nd citation – One week bus riding suspension (5 school days) 3rd citation – One month bus riding suspension (20 school days)

4th citation – Balance-of-year bus riding suspension

Serious infractions may result in immediate suspension from bus riding.

Miscellaneous

Messages

Only in the case of an emergency will the office forward messages from parents to

students. Examples of emergencies would be car accident, someone injured, or

hospitalized.

Channeling Parental Concerns or Grievances

1. Parental concerns or grievances regarding classroom or school activities or

procedures should initially be directed to the classroom teacher. Ordinarily, the

classroom teacher is in the best position to provide information or to work directly

with parents in order to resolve classroom problems and concerns.

2. If the parent elects to bring a grievance initially to the attention of the principal, the

principal will direct the parent to the teacher in order that the problem can be

resolved. If the principal determines that this procedure will not result in an

appropriate solution to the problem presented, s/he will make every effort

personally to resolve the problem.

3. If the parent elects to bring a grievance directly to the Superintendent, the

Superintendent will evaluate the problem and will ordinarily encourage the parent to

utilize the procedures described above. S/he will also make every reasonable effort

to resolve the problem. This will normally involve notification to any district

personnel named or involved in a grievance.

4. If a parent elects to bring a grievance to a Board member or to the Board of Trustees

as a whole, the parent will be encouraged to seek resolution of the problem through

procedures described above whenever possible. The Board may also direct the

Superintendent to resolve the problem.

Formal procedures for filing and resolving a complaint are set forth in Board Policy 2185 and

can be obtained from the school or district office upon request.

Cell Phone Policy

Use of a cell phone is not permitted on campus during school time. This means students are

not to use cell phones between the hours of 8:05 am and 2:45 pm every day with the

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exception of our weekly minimum day, Wednesday. On Wednesdays students are not to use

cell phones between the hours of 8:05 a.m. and 12:36 pm.

Forgetting to turn off the cell phone is NOT an excuse. Trying to justify a call to a parent is

NOT an excuse. Using a cell phone in the locker room, restroom, lunch area, or playground

areas is NEVER allowed. If a call needs to be made to a parent, students are to report to

the office and ask for assistance.

Use of a cell phone during a test, i.e. text messaging, will be considered cheating and

proper action will be taken in addition to the student receiving a failing grade on that test.

No use of cell phone photography is permitted during the school day. This is an illegal use

of a cell phone and is an invasion of privacy.

Abbott is not responsible for loss or theft of cell phones.

Health Services

If a student suffers an injury or becomes ill while at school, the student should immediately

notify a staff member. If a student is injured or becomes ill during passing time or after

the warning bell to end lunch, the student should check in with the next classroom teacher

for permission to report to the clinic.

Ice will be issued only to restrict the swelling of injuries sustained while at school.

California Education laws prohibit schools from issuing medication to students unless prior

written arrangements are made i.e. a Hold Harmless form signed by doctor/parent on file in

the main office.

Every student must have an emergency card on file so that the parent or other responsible

adult may be notified in case of accident or illness.

School nurses visit each school regularly. The nurse identifies health problems and confers

with teachers and parents within the school. Hearing, vision, color vision, and scoliosis

screening are done as mandated by the state. A nurse is available for consultation

regarding health problems and in the case of emergencies.

Intradistrict Transfers

Parents may also request that their child attend another neighborhood school in the school

district using the District's intradistrict transfer process. Transfers are considered on the

basis of space availability at the requested school. Space is reserved first for the children

assigned to the school. Enrollment priority for those desiring transfers is done on a lottery

basis, with waiting lists established. Transfers, done as part of the lottery process, are

generally approved through the highest grade at the registered school as long as the child

maintains a satisfactory record of academic performance, behavior and attendance.

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Intradistrict transfer request forms can be obtained from any school office in the school

district, or by calling Student Services at 650-312-7345.

Families who relocate during the school year may also need a transfer to complete the

school year if they want to continue in the current school. Please call Student Services at

650-312-7345, for more information.

Telephone Use

If emergency phone use is necessary, students should check with office

personnel.

Visitors Sign In

All parents and visitors are required to check in at the office upon arrival at school, sign in,

show photo ID and wear a badge identifying their status as a visitor. Students from other

schools, house guests, or visiting relatives are not allowed on campus to attend classes

during the school day, or attend social activities designated for Abbott students.

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Campus Map

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