Student Handbook

CCMS Student Handbook

CCMS MISSION/PURPOSE

Our mission at CCMS is to engage students in a rigorous and relevant education, elevate their potential through innovative learning experiences, and empower them to become confident, compassionate, and contributing members of our global community.

VISION

Engage-Elevate-Empower

THE COLONEL WAY

Creating Confident Motivated Students

FERPA

In accordance with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act, written policies and procedures have been developed which describe the Christian County School District’s requirements regarding the confidentiality of personally identifiable information.  Stated in this notice is a summary of your rights under the Act.  These rights are passed on to the student at age eighteen.  For the purpose of this notice, a student 18 years or older will be referred to as “eligible” student.  Parents, guardians, and eligible students may review and inspect all education records relating to that student by making a request to the principal of the school where that student attends.   **If you would like to read FERPA in its entirety, please come to the school to obtain a copy.

Guidelines For Success

CCMS School Wide Expectations

CODE OF ACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR – CHRISTIAN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Each student has access to a copy of the Christian County Code of Acceptable Behavior & Discipline through the district website.  Parents and students should carefully read and familiarize themselves with this information.  The document was recently updated for the start of the school year.  The Code of Acceptable Behavior contains a complete listing of behavior infractions and violations. The Code also contains an updated matrix with strategies, interventions, and administrative responses to be used by school employees and administrators in response to inappropriate student behavior.

This Student-Parent Handbook further explains the expectations and the regulations of Christian County Middle School.  Students should abide by the standards of conduct in a manner that reflects a desire to learn.  At no time should student conduct interfere with the opportunity of others to learn.  

CCMS SCHOOL-WIDE BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS

The purpose of the CCMS Behavior Model is to provide a consistent, school-wide set of expectations and procedures for teaching positive behaviors. As often as possible, all students should be kept in their best learning environment. This model will allow teachers to consistently intervene and assign consequences when necessary for minor classroom infractions, as well as, refer students to the administration when major violations take place. The following are goals of the behavior model: 

1. Establish positive relationships between students and adults. 

2. Change inappropriate behavior by re-teaching expectations, modeling appropriate behaviors, 

and providing the appropriate interventions needed for each student.  

3. Establish a CONSISTENT and EQUITABLE framework for referrals and consequences that enhances the teacher’s ability to maintain the appropriate learning environment and is easy for parents and students to understand what constitutes inappropriate behavior and the interventions/consequences that follow. 

INFRACTIONS AND REFERRALS

Behavior infractions at CCMS will be categorized as either Minor or Major. Staff will determine the level of the infraction and complete the appropriate documentation. Parent contact will be attempted for all Major infractions and when a student receives a third Minor infraction. CCMS staff and administrators will follow the CCPS Code of Acceptable Behavior for interventions and disciplinary responses.

Minor Behavior Infractions

Minor infractions fall into the following categories:

• Electronic Devices

• Non-Compliance

• Disruption

• Other
  
  

Examples of Minor Infractions include, but are not limited to:

• Disruptive behavior

• Disrespectful behavior

• Failure to follow directions

• Eating or drinking in class

• Being unprepared for class

• Use of cell phones or earbuds (must be kept in lockers)

• Inappropriate use of technology
  
  

Classroom teachers are responsible for addressing Minor infractions and assigning appropriate consequences, which may include but are not limited to:

• Positive reinforcement

• Time out or break

• Change in seating, group, or schedule

• Parent contact or parent conference

• Referral for PBIS Tier II/III intervention

• Behavior point sheet or behavior log

• Restorative actions (righting the wrong)

• Loss of privileges

• Referral to counselor

• Lunch detention or working lunch

• Check-in/check-out procedures
  
  

On the third Minor referral, a Major referral will be issued for Repeated Classroom Offenses (i.e., "Three strikes and you're out").

Major Behavior Infractions

Major infractions must be documented on a Major Office Referral form and submitted to an administrator. Administrators will assign consequences in accordance with the CCPS Code of Acceptable Behavior.

ACADEMIC CHEATING/PLAGARISM

Academic cheating and plagiarism involve the unauthorized use of information, materials, devices, sources, or other practices to complete academic work. This includes, but is not limited to, copying from others, using unauthorized resources, or submitting work that is not one’s own.

If a student is found to have cheated or plagiarized, the following consequences will apply:

• A grade of zero will be given for the assignment.

• An office referral will be issued for academic dishonesty.

Further disciplinary action may be taken in accordance with the CCPS Code of Acceptable Behavior.

ANTI-BULLYING POLICY

Christian County Middle School is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive educational environment for all students, staff, volunteers, and visitors—free from harassment, intimidation, and bullying.

Definition of Bullying:
Bullying is a conscious, willful, and deliberate act intended to cause harm, in which the perpetrator derives satisfaction from the pain or distress of the targeted individual. Bullying may be verbal, physical, relational, or digital (cyberbullying) and may involve targeting someone based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender (including sexual orientation), or physical or mental ability. Bullying includes all forms of hazing and can occur once or be repeated over time. A single incident may be considered bullying if it meets the criteria.

Forms of Harassment, Intimidation, or Bullying May Include:

• Slurs, rumors, or demeaning comments

• Jokes or innuendos

• Threatening gestures or physical attacks

• Pranks or offensive drawings/cartoons

• Written, oral, or digital threats or insults
  
  

Intentional acts refer to the choice to engage in the behavior, not necessarily the result or impact of the behavior.

This policy is not intended to restrict the lawful expression of religious, philosophical, or political views—as long as the expression does not cause a substantial disruption to the educational environment. Behaviors that may not meet the threshold of harassment, intimidation, or bullying may still violate other school or district rules.

Consequences and Interventions:
Christian County Middle School will respond to violations with appropriate measures, which may include:

• Counseling or behavioral intervention

• Disciplinary action

• Restorative practices

• Referral to law enforcement (as necessary)

• Support and services for the victim(s)

• Actions to restore a positive school climate
  
  

False reports and acts of retaliation against any person who reports bullying or harassment are also considered violations of this policy and will result in appropriate consequences.

DRESS CODE/STUDENT APPEARANCE

Christian County Middle School follows the Christian County Public Schools (CCPS) Code of Acceptable Behavior regarding student dress and appearance. Our goal is to maintain a respectful, safe, and distraction-free learning environment. All students are expected to follow the dress code guidelines outlined below each school day.

Please note:

• If dress code updates occur during the school year, families will be notified in advance.

• If there is any question about the appropriateness of clothing or appearance, CCMS administrators will make the final decision.

• Administrators reserve the right to require a student to change clothing or correct any issue deemed inappropriate or disruptive to learning.

Dress Code Guidelines

General Appearance

• Clothing must fully cover undergarments (e.g., bra straps, underwear, boxers, garters).

• Clothing must not expose excessive skin, including the midriff, chest, or sides of the torso.

• The following items are not permitted:

• Crop tops or shirts tied up to expose skin

• Muscle shirts with large cutouts

• Low-cut or see-through tops

• Sagging or low-riding pants

• Spaghetti straps (straps must be at least three fingers wide)
  
  

Pants, Shorts, Skirts, and Dresses

• Holes in jeans/pants must be no higher than mid-thigh.

• Spandex, bike shorts, or other tight-fitting athletic shorts are acceptable as long as they are mid-thigh length or longer when standing.

• Pajamas may only be worn on designated pajama days.
  
  

Footwear

• Shoes must be worn at all times.

• House shoes and slippers are not permitted.
  
  

Headwear

The following items are not allowed inside the building:

• Hats, hoods, and bandannas

• Hair picks, combs, bonnets

• Animal ears, tails or costume headwear

• Sunglasses
  
  

Accessories

Clothing or accessories must not promote or display:

• Alcohol, drugs, or tobacco

• Violence or weapons

• Sexual content or innuendo

• Offensive or inappropriate language or images

• Wallet chains or key chains are not permitted.

• Jewelry, makeup, or piercings that create a safety concern or classroom distraction may be required to be removed.

Outerwear

• Heavy coats must be stored in lockers during the school day.

         Enforcement

• Students who violate the dress code may be asked to change or call home for a change of clothes.

• Repeated violations may result in disciplinary consequences in accordance with the CCMS Behavior Policy.

DRESS CODE VIOLATIONS

All dress code violations will be addressed and documented to maintain a respectful and consistent school environment. Staff will make every effort to identify violations as students arrive for first period. However, if a violation is noticed later in the day or occurs after arrival, it will still be addressed in the same manner.

All violations will be reported to the front office secretary for documentation.

        Violation Procedures

           1st Offense

• The dress code expectations will be reviewed with the student.

• The student will be required to correct the violation.

• Parents may be contacted to bring appropriate clothing.

• The school will not provide clothing.

• The student will remain in ISS (In-School Suspension) until the issue is resolved, then return to class.

• This is not a write-up but will be documented internally.

         2nd Offense

• The violation will be documented as a minor infraction.

• The student must correct the violation.

• Parents may be contacted to bring appropriate clothing.

• The student will remain in ISS until corrected.

• An appropriate consequence may be assigned for failure to follow directions.

• Once corrected, the student may return to class.

3rd Offense and Beyond

• The violation will be documented as a major infraction.

• Repeated failure to follow the dress code will be handled at the discretion of the administration.

• Progressive discipline will apply based on the school’s behavior policy.

CELL PHONES / ALL ELECTRONIC DEVICES

To support a focused and distraction-free learning environment, all student cell phones and electronic accessories (including chargers, earbuds, headphones, smartwatches, etc.) must be secured in lockers during school hours. This includes time spent in classrooms, hallways, restrooms, the cafeteria, and all other school areas.

Communication Expectations

• Parents/Guardians who need to contact their child during the school day should call the main office at 270-887-7070.

• Students who need to contact a parent/guardian may request permission to use the phone in the front office.

Violation Policy

Any phone or device that is seen, heard, or in use during the school day will result in a disciplinary consequence, following the CCPS Code of Conduct:

• 1st Offense – 2 DAYS OF ISS

• 2nd Offense – 1 DAY OF OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION

• 3rd Offense – 2 DAYS OF OUT OF SCHOOL SUSPENSION

• 4th Offense and Beyond- Referral to Christian County Learning Academy

Important Notice

CCMS is not responsible for any lost, stolen, or damaged phones, earbuds, headphones, or other electronic devices and accessories brought to school. All students will keep their cell phones and electronics in their lockers. Students CANNOT keep their cellphones in their teachers classroom.

VAPE POLICY

         Possession or use of vaping devices or related products is strictly prohibited on school property.

Nicotine Vapes or Nicotine Products

• 1st Offense – 2-day out-of-school suspension

• 2nd Offense – May result in referral for enrollment at Bluegrass Learning Academy

THC Vapes or THC Products

• 1st Offense – Immediate referral for enrollment at Bluegrass Learning Academy

CAFETERIA RULES, REGULATIONS, AND INFORMATION

School Breakfast and Lunch
Free meals are provided for all students. If a lunch form was not received during summer registration, each student will be given one to take home for completion by a parent or guardian. Additional lunch forms are available in the cafeteria if needed.

Adult meal prices:

• Breakfast: $2.75

• Lunch: $4.60

Cafeteria Expectations:

1. When going through the lunch line, students should collect all necessary items (tray, napkin, utensils, etc.). Students are permitted to go through the lunch line only once.
   
   

2. During the lunch period, students must remain seated unless permitted by a teacher or lunch monitor. Students are expected to sit at their assigned tables; however, specific seats are not assigned.
   
   

3. Students must scan their student ID during lunch. Each student will also be assigned a personal code number, which may be entered on a keypad at the cash register. These code numbers are not to be shared or used by other students.
   
   

4. Students may purchase additional items beyond the standard lunch. Payment must be made at the time of purchase; charging to an account is not allowed. Parents may also add funds to their child's account via myschoolbucks.com.
   
   

5. Breakfast will be served each morning and will be available at both the bus rider and car rider entrances. Students should select their breakfast items and take them to their advisory class to eat.

6. Food and drinks may not be taken outside of the cafeteria.

7. Large bags of chips and similar oversized snack items are not permitted in the cafeteria.

BUS BEHAVIOR

Please note that school bus transportation is a privilege, not a right. CCMS students are expected to follow all bus rules as outlined in the Christian County Public Schools Code of Acceptable Behavior (School Transportation and Expectations section).

Bus referrals will be submitted to school administration and addressed by district disciplinary procedures. Consequences may include, but are not limited to, suspension from bus privileges.

TARDIES

At CCMS, we expect all students to receive bell-to-bell instruction—every minute of class time matters. Students have 4 minutes between classes. If a student is not inside the classroom when the bell rings, they are considered tardy.

• Tardies will result in negative points/demerits in LiveSchool.

• Parents/guardians will be notified when a student accumulates three class tardies.

• LiveSchool will track all student tardies.

Students who arrive more than 4 minutes late to class will be considered skipping, which is a serious offense and will result in a major office referral.

Tardies are monitored in sets of three. Each set of three tardies will be reported to school administration and will result in the following consequences:

• 1st set (3 tardies) – 1 day of lunch detention

• 2nd set (6 total tardies) – 3 days of lunch detention

• 3rd set (9 total tardies) – Major Office Referral; consequences assigned according to the Code of Acceptable Behavior

ATTENDANCE AND RELATED POLICIES

Excused Absences
  Students will be excused for up to six (6) days per school year for the following reasons:

• Illness of the student

• Illness in the student’s home

• Death in the family

A note from a parent/guardian or medical provider must be submitted upon the student’s return to school. Parent/guardian notes will excuse absences for up to six (6) days total, which do not need to be consecutive. After the sixth (6th) parent note is used, all additional absences must be excused by a medical provider’s note; otherwise, those absences will be considered unexcused.

Per CCBOE policy, all excuse notes must be submitted within five (5) school days of the absence to be marked as excused. Excuse notes can be emailed to the attendance clerk at: holly.fletcher@christian.kyschools.us

Importance of Attendance:
Regular and punctual attendance is essential to ensure that students receive the full benefit of instruction in all assigned classes.

School Hours:

• School begins at 8:25 a.m.

• School ends at 3:25 p.m.

• Bus dismissal is at 3:25 p.m.

Students are considered tardy to school if they are not inside the building before 8:00 a.m., unless arriving on a late bus. Tardies are recorded in attendance, and tardy students will receive an admit slip for class.

Students who arrive on campus before 8:00 a.m. but are not in their classroom by that time will be considered tardy to class.

For first-period tardies without an excused note, the tardy slip will be submitted to the school secretary and counted with tardies from other classes. Three unexcused tardies equal one unexcused absence.

Campus Arrival and Dismissal:

• Students are not permitted to leave school grounds once they arrive on campus until dismissal.

• School doors open at 8:00 a.m. Students arriving before this time must remain in their parent/guardian vehicle or, if walking, on the sidewalk outside. Please note that there is no supervision before 8:00 a.m., and CCMS staff are not responsible for students before this time.

• Parents/guardians may not drop off or pick up students behind the school where buses load and unload. Please use the Glass Avenue entrance in front of the school for all student pick-ups and drop-offs.

• All students should be picked up or leave campus by 3:45 p.m., except those participating in extracurricular activities. These students must be picked up or leave campus within 10 minutes after their activity concludes.

ABSENCES

Students are expected to attend school every day. However, absences may sometimes occur. Please refer to the Christian County Code of Acceptable Behavior for detailed district policies regarding attendance, excused and unexcused absences, as well as all laws and procedures related to truancy.

CHECK-OUTS

Only parents or their designees listed on the student’s check-out card are authorized to check a student out of school. The individual must present a valid picture I.D. before entering the building and sign the check-out log at the front desk. Telephone check-outs are not permitted.

When a student is checked out early or arrives late, absences for all missed classes will be marked excused or unexcused based on the reasons outlined in the Code of Acceptable Behavior, and a corresponding note must be provided.

Any changes to the check-out card must be made in person by a parent or guardian at the school office. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to notify the school of any changes in custody or other family circumstances.

SCHOOL EXCUSES FOR ABSENCES

When a student has been absent from school for any reason, he/she MUST bring a note signed by a parent to the front office on the day he/she returns or within 5 school days. The note should also be dated, including the student's first and last name, and should state the reason for the absence. In case of a medical appointment, the student should request a written statement from the doctor/dentist and bring that statement to school. Any portion of the day missed requires a note from home or doctor and an admit slip from the attendance clerk. 

PERFECT ATTENDANCE:

To qualify for a Perfect Attendance Award at CCMS, a student must be present every school day from the first day of school through the last day, without missing any part of any day. This includes not being checked in late or checked out early for any reason.

TRUANCY

Please refer to the CCPS Code of Acceptable Behavior for the complete Truancy Policy and Procedures.

Important Notes:

• A student who has been absent from school without a valid excuse for three (3) days or who is tardy to school three (3) or more times is considered truant.

• A student with three (3) or more reported absences is classified as a habitual truant.

• Being absent for less than half a school day will be counted as a tardiness.

• Three (3) unexcused tardies are equivalent to one (1) unexcused absence.

• Absences will be calculated based on the exact percentage of the school day missed, rather than in half-day or full-day increments.

• An absence event will be recorded when a student misses more than 60 minutes of the school day.

REWARDS/RECOGNITIONS

Students who meet academic and school-wide behavior expectations will be recognized regularly at CCMS. Students and parents will be informed of the dates and criteria for quarterly rewards. To emphasize the importance of consistently meeting expectations, some rewards will be unannounced but will still be based on meeting established school-wide criteria.

Principal’s List / Honor Roll: To highlight academic achievement, CCMS will recognize a Principal’s List and an Honor Roll each nine weeks.

Principal’s List: Students must earn all A’s in every class.

Honor Roll: Students must earn all A’s and B’s in every class.

Awards Day: An awards program will be held at the end of the school year to recognize academic achievement, citizenship, club participation, and other accomplishments.

School Dances: CCMS dances are exclusive to CCMS students and are supervised by school staff. A fee is typically charged for attendance. Students with office referrals for disciplinary issues may be excluded from attending dances. This decision will be made by the administration and announced prior to each dance.  ANY student who receives a major office referral or accumulates three or more minor referrals during the fourth nine weeks WILL NOT be allowed to attend the 8th-grade formal in May.

All students must be picked up no later than 15 minutes after the dance ends. Failure to comply will result in suspension from all remaining dances that school year. Students must also be present for at least half of the school day on the day of the dance to be eligible to attend.

Colonel PRIDE Reward Program

The Colonel Pride Program includes Colonel Pride Points, High School Ready, 8th Grade Ready, and 7th Grade Ready designations. These are all managed through LiveSchool student accounts.

Pride Points:
Teachers award Pride Points to students who demonstrate The Colonel Way. Additional points can be earned by exemplifying the monthly character trait. Students can spend their Pride Points in the LiveSchool Reward Store.

High School/8th Grade/6th/7th Grade Ready(Profile of a Graduate):
Students can earn bonus Colonel Pride Points by meeting readiness benchmarks in Reading and Math based on scores from benchmark assessments given three times per year.

Colonel House/Team Competition:
Grade-level teams compete against each other by accumulating points. Point totals are displayed on the hallway bulletin board. Points earned align with how students earn Colonel Pride Points.

Point System

Daily/Weekly:
Each week, every staff member may award Pride Points to students demonstrating P.R.I.D.E. expectations and the character trait of the month. Students can redeem their points in the LiveSchool Reward Store for rewards such as cafeteria privileges, items from the Colonel Cart, classroom rewards, or entry into the End-of-Year prize drawing.

• Each Pride Point earned counts as one point toward the team competition

• Reward Store offerings vary daily and are at the teacher’s discretion.

• The Colonel Cart is available monthly.

• Cafeteria Pride Points can only be used on designated days (e.g., free seating Friday).

Academic Bonuses:
Students may earn bonus LiveSchool points for their team each nine weeks by making the Honor Roll or Principal’s List. Points are awarded at the end of each nine-week grading period. Additional points can be earned by scoring Proficient or Distinguished on common assessments and benchmark tests.

GRADE REPORTING

Christian County Middle School (CCMS) follows a continuous grading policy. Instead of averaging four separate nine-week grading periods for a final grade, CCMS—as well as all secondary schools in CCPS—averages all grades earned from the first day to the last day of school. “Snapshots” of the current grade are sent home on report cards at the end of each nine-week period, along with the final grade at the end of the year.

For each of the first three nine-week periods, current grades will be posted in Infinite Campus for both midterm and final nine-week grades. This system allows for the calculation of A and A/B Honor Roll as well as PRIDE recognition.

CCMS will adhere to CCPS policies regarding student promotion and retention.

Midterm Reports
Midterm reports will be issued at the midpoint of each nine-week grading period. Parents may check their child’s grades and discipline referrals at any time through the Infinite Campus Parent Portal. Contact the guidance office for login information.

Grading Scale
  The following grading scale, based on a 4.0 system, will be used for all classes:

• A: 100–90

• B: 89–80

• C: 79–70

• D: 69–60

• F: 59 and below

PARENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

If efforts to resolve an issue have been unsuccessful and a parent still has questions or needs a conference to address a concern, they may contact the guidance department or school administration to arrange a meeting. Conferences can be scheduled with a teacher, counselor, principal, or the team of teachers working with their child.

To request a conference, parents should contact the guidance office at (270) 887-9960 or email barbara.bakerl@christian.kyschools.us to set up an appointment. 

STUDENT-TEACHER CONFERENCES

Students who need to talk with a teacher about a problem should request a time that is convenient for both the student and the teacher during the school day. Teachers may also request to meet with students to resolve conflicts or provide individual support. Every effort is made to keep parents informed. Please communicate your requests promptly to ensure all information is shared promptly.

HOMEWORK

Homework is an important part of a student’s education. It should be taken seriously by teachers and students and supported by parents. When this happens, the results are usually positive, strengthening the learning process. Due to the importance of homework and its direct and indirect impact on grades, all students are expected to complete all assigned homework.

SCHOOL NURSE      

All students who need medication during school hours must follow these procedures:

1. Submit a medication authorization form signed by both the prescribing physician and the parent/guardian to the Nurse’s Office. (See below for more information.)
   
   

2. Prescription medication must be brought to school in the original prescription bottle, properly labeled by a registered pharmacist as required by law.
   
   

3. All medication must be stored and administered by the Nurse.
   
   

4. Long-term medication will be administered by the Nurse. A daily log will be kept and signed by the person administering the medication.

The Nurse is required to call the parent(s)/guardian(s) if a student visits the Nurse’s Office. However, receiving a phone call does not necessarily mean the student will be sent home or that their check-out will be excused. If you speak with your student and they ask you to pick them up, please check back with the Nurse to confirm whether the dismissal will be excused by the Nurse.

Important: No aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or similar medications will be given to any student by the school unless the above steps have been completed.

Immunization and Physical Examinations

The Nurse will review student files and contact parents/guardians if any immunizations or physical exams are needed.

Refusal of Medication by Staff or Students

There may be situations when the school cannot honor a parent/guardian’s request to administer medication during school hours. These circumstances should be outlined in the school’s medication administration policy or student handbook. Examples include:

• Medication was not sent in its original container.

• Medication is prescribed twice daily and can be given before and after school hours.

• Medication is prescribed three times daily and can be given before and after school hours.

• Student requests over-the-counter medication for more than three consecutive days without a healthcare provider’s authorization.

• No written authorization is on file.

Students may also refuse to take medication as prescribed. Best practices, considering the student’s developmental level, include ensuring the student understands the purpose of the medication and possible side effects. Refusing medication is not considered a medication error and should be documented on the Medication Administration Record as “refused medication.” When a student refuses medication, the school nurse must notify the parent or guardian as soon as possible.

FIRST AID/ILLNESS

If a student is injured, they must get a nurse referral from their teacher before going to the Nurse’s Office. First aid is given for minor injuries only. Parents will be contacted if medical attention seems necessary. Medication will not be given without written permission from a parent and physician.

COUNSELING PROGRAM

Christian County Middle School offers an effective school counselor program designed to address the unique needs of each student. Our counselors work closely with students, parents, and community personnel to help resolve any issues a student may face. Additionally, counselors provide a variety of services to support students throughout their time at the middle school, including:

• Assisting students with enrollment and withdrawal processes

• Scheduling parent-teacher conferences

• Administering and interpreting standardized test scores

• Ensuring compensatory services are provided for students who are educationally or economically disadvantaged

• Consulting with parents, teachers, and staff to better understand and meet students’ needs, including scheduling students

• Collecting assignments for students absent for three or more days

• Providing individual counseling to students

PROCEDURES FOR WITHDRAWING A STUDENT

• A parent or legal guardian must visit the guidance department to complete the required withdrawal paperwork before the student’s last day of attendance.

• Return all textbooks, assignment books, and any other issued materials. (Instructions for this will be provided when the withdrawal form is obtained from the guidance office.)

• Obtain signatures on the withdrawal form from all teachers, the librarian, cafeteria staff, and others as needed.

• Receive final clearance from the guidance department. All outstanding fees and obligations must be settled before clearance is granted.

SCHEDULE CHANGES 

Student schedules will be changed by the guidance office only after review and approval by the administration. Additionally, the administration reserves the right to modify a student’s schedule at any time if it is deemed necessary to improve the student’s learning environment, prevent behavioral conflicts, or for other reasons.

AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES POLICY 

• Only students directly involved in a school-sponsored activity and under the supervision of a coach or teacher may remain on school property after dismissal. Students participating in after-school activities must arrange transportation home immediately following the activity.

• Students who are absent for half a day, assigned to ISS, or suspended for the day lose the privilege to participate in any after-school extracurricular activities during that time.

• Students who do not follow these rules will be prohibited from participating in extracurricular activities.

• Students are not allowed to stay at school unsupervised while waiting for practice or games to begin.

• CCMS students may not attend middle or high school sporting events without a parent or guardian present.

ATHLETICS/EXTRA-CURRICULAR 

The following groups are considered school-sponsored athletic and extracurricular teams: dance team, basketball, football, and cheerleading. Students participating in these activities must meet grade, behavior, and attendance requirements as set by the school site-based council. Athletic department and team policies will be provided to each student-athlete and their guardians.

Additionally, students may participate in other sports offered through high school programs as their interest and ability allow, including baseball, golf, wrestling, softball, and bass fishing.

Students involved in high school-sponsored sports must meet all KHSAA participation requirements. All athletes are required to follow the CCMS extracurricular activities policy regarding academic eligibility.

Before participating in athletics, all students must have a physical examination. Sports physicals are valid for one fiscal year only. The physical form can be found at www.khsaa.org for your physician to complete. Both middle school and high school physical forms must be completed and returned to the appropriate school. Physical forms are also available at CCMS.

For questions, contact:
  Meagan Sallee, Athletic Director
  Email: meagan.sallee@christian.kyschools.us
  Phone: 270-887-7070

        CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES/CLUBS 

CCMS students have the opportunity to participate in band or choir during the school day. Students must continue to meet academic and school-wide behavior expectations to remain eligible for participation. Please note that academic intervention classes will take priority over electives when necessary.

Students can also join various school-sponsored clubs and organizations. A complete list of these activities and their sponsors is available in the Guidance Department and is provided to all students at the start of the school year. Some of the clubs and activities include, but are not limited to: Academic Team, Junior Beta Club, Kentucky Youth Assembly (KYA), Builders Club, Chess Club, STLP, Band, Choir, FCA and more.

INSURANCE 

School insurance is available to all students at the beginning of the school year. Students participating in athletics or cheerleading are required to purchase this insurance or provide a signed waiver from a parent indicating coverage under a parent’s policy. If insurance is needed later in the year, parents may contact the insurance company directly. Brochures are available at the school.

HALL PASSES 

All students must carry a hall pass issued by a faculty or staff member to leave class. Students are expected to remain in class during instructional time. Hall passes should be used sparingly and only at the teacher’s discretion. Students are encouraged to use the restroom during class changes.

LOCKERS 

Lockers will be issued to students. Students are expected to store cell phones, AirPods, chargers, food, and backpacks in their lockers.

LOST AND FOUND 

The following rules apply to student possessions to help minimize losses:

1. Leave valuables not needed for class at home. Do not leave money, tech devices, or other valuables in your desk or in any place you cannot closely monitor.

2. Jackets, books, and other items found in the classroom will be placed in the “Lost and Found” box. Report the loss of any important item to the front office as soon as possible.

3. Confiscated or lost items should be claimed within a reasonable time. CCMS staff and administrators are not responsible for unclaimed items.

MEDIA CENTER 

Our middle school features a well-equipped media center. Books, magazines, and other materials are carefully selected to encourage students to become lifelong readers and to appreciate the value of using media center resources. Students may check out books, but reference materials must remain in the media center.

SCHOOL FEES 

A fee will be charged to cover the cost of consumable materials in various exploratory classes. All fees are due during the first week of classes. General school fees are $20 per student, with an additional $35 technology fee that includes insurance for repairing damaged devices.

SCHOOL PICTURES 

School pictures will be taken twice during the year. Parents and students will be notified in advance of picture days to allow for appropriate dress. All students are required to have their pictures taken for the yearbook and ID badges.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES 

Students are expected to come to class prepared with all necessary materials. Students who need assistance purchasing school supplies may contact our KERALOT Youth Service Center for support. Repeated instances of coming to class without materials will be addressed through behavioral infractions.

TELEPHONES 

School telephones are business phones and are to be used accordingly. If a student needs to use the telephone, they must first obtain permission. Except in emergencies, students will not be called to the phone during class. In case of illness, the student must go to the nurse’s office, and the parent will be contacted from there.

TEXTBOOKS 

Textbooks are provided by the state free of charge for student use. Students are responsible for properly caring for their textbooks and returning them at the end of the school year. Lost or damaged textbooks must be paid for before new books can be issued. This requirement is mandated by state textbook law.

WATER BOTTLES/OUTSIDE FOOD 

Students may only bring water in clear plastic bottles with a secure screw-on lid to class. Metal water bottles (such as Stanley, Yeti, Hydro Flask, etc.) are not permitted. Students may refill their plastic water bottles at hallway fountains as needed.

Energy drinks and outside food are not allowed and must be discarded before entering the building. This policy  helps maintain a clean, safe, and distraction-free learning environment.

YEARBOOK 

Yearbooks may be ordered in the fall semester. All orders must be paid in advance. The yearbook includes photos of classmates, teachers, friends, and highlights from various school activities and events throughout the year.

A limited number of yearbooks are ordered each year, so early purchase is strongly recommended to ensure availability. Yearbooks will be distributed at the end of the school year to those who have purchased them.

Superlatives:
Candidates for yearbook superlatives will be screened by administrators for academic performance, attendance, and disciplinary history.

PARENT INVOLVEMENT POLICY 

TITLE I SCHOOLWIDE PROGRAM SCHOOL 

Christian County Middle School recognizes the critical role that families play in the academic success of students. We are committed to fostering meaningful, two-way communication and promoting strong school-family partnerships.

        Definition of Parent and Family Engagement

Parent and family engagement refers to the regular, two-way, and meaningful communication between parents and school staff regarding student academic learning and other school activities. This includes:

• Parents playing an integral role in supporting their child’s learning and academic success.

• Encouraging parents to be actively involved in school life.

• Including parents as full partners in decision-making and advisory roles related to their child’s education.
  
  

        Expectations for Parent Involvement

Christian County Middle School has adopted the following Parent and Family Engagement Policy and Plan, which will be distributed to all parents. Any comments indicating parental concerns about the district’s Title I Plan will be collected and submitted along with the plan to the Kentucky Department of Education.

        Annual Title I Meeting

CCMS will host an annual meeting in the fall to which all parents of students participating in the Title I program will be invited and encouraged to attend. This meeting will cover:

• The purpose and requirements of Title I

• Students' participation in the schoolwide Title I program

• Parents' rights to be involved in school planning and decision-making
  
  

Flexible Opportunities for Parent Engagement

To promote and support family involvement, CCMS will:

• Offer a flexible number of meetings and conferences at varying times

• Provide, when possible, transportation, childcare, or home visits to encourage participation

• Give all parents and students access to LiveSchool, where they can track student behavior and rewards

          Parent Participation in Planning and Evaluation

Parents will be involved in the planning, review, and improvement of Title I programs, including:

• The Parent and Family Engagement Policy

• The Home-School Compact

• The Schoolwide Improvement Plan

             Information will be shared with families in an organized, consistent, and timely manner.

          Information Provided to Parents

Parents will receive:

• Regular invitations to meetings and events

• The school’s performance data and their child’s individual assessment results, with explanations when necessary

• Details about the school’s curriculum, assessment systems, and proficiency levels

• Timely responses to parent questions, concerns, or suggestions

• Opportunities to help plan and improve parent and family engagement programs

          Shared Responsibility for High Student Performance

A jointly developed Parent-School Learning Compact outlines:

• The school’s responsibility to provide high-quality instruction in a supportive environment

• Ways in which parents will support their child’s learning at home

• Ongoing communication between parents and school staff, including:
  
  

• Parent-teacher conferences

• Progress reports

• Reasonable access to staff

          Building Capacity for Involvement

To strengthen family engagement, CCMS will:

• Help parents understand academic standards, Title I requirements, and how to monitor their child’s progress

• Provide materials and training (including literacy support if needed) to help improve student achievement

• Ensure all information is shared in clear, understandable formats and in home languages whenever possible
  
  

• Educate staff—with input from parents—on effective family communication and engagement strategies

• Involve parents in developing staff training programs when appropriate

• Offer parent resource opportunities (e.g., learning about child development or parenting support)

• Foster partnerships with community-based organizations, businesses, and schools at all levels

• Support parent leaders to mentor and engage other families

• Provide specific support for Migrant families

• Ensure access to:

• LiveSchool, to monitor student behavior and rewards

• ParentSquare, to receive school updates via text or email

This policy reflects CCMS’s ongoing commitment to supporting strong family-school partnerships that enhance student learning and overall school success.

         EXPECTATIONS FOR PARENT INVOLVEMENT 

The Board intends that parents of students participating in the Title I program are provided with frequent, accessible opportunities for ongoing involvement. This includes opportunities for parents to offer input and suggest modifications based on the evolving needs of both families and the school.

Each year, an annual evaluation of the Title I program will be conducted at the school level. All parent feedback and comments will be collected and submitted for review and used to inform revisions to existing parent and family engagement policies.

The Title I program is designed to support students in meeting both the goals established by federal law and the academic standards adopted by the Board. These goals and standards will be shared with parents in a clear and meaningful way that enables them to:

• Participate actively in decisions related to their child’s education

• Monitor and support their child’s academic progress and success
  
  

SUPPORT FOR PROGRAM 

Since the District’s Title I allocation is $500,000 or more, at least one percent of the total allocation will be reserved to promote parent and family engagement. Parents of students participating in Title I programs will be allowed to help determine how these funds are used to best support engagement efforts.

District Support for Parent Involvement

The District will provide coordination, technical assistance, and other support necessary to help schools plan and implement effective parent and family engagement activities. These efforts may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Providing resources and logistical support, such as:
  
  

• Transportation for parents to attend school meetings or events

• Home visits when appropriate

• Childcare during parent meetings

• Access to and encouragement to utilize Parent Resource Centers

• Support for parenting skills—especially those that help parents assist with their child’s academic growth

• Use of individuals, agencies, materials, and services to facilitate engagement

• Coordinating and integrating Title I parent engagement strategies with:
  
  

• Community programs

• Local businesses

• Social service agencies and organizations
  
  

• Encouraging parent participation in staff training sessions to:
  
  

• Share insights on the importance and impact of parent engagement

• Identify effective strategies for involving parents as equal partners in their child’s education

Annual Evaluation of Policy and Engagement Plan

The District will design and conduct an annual evaluation that gives parents a voice in reviewing the content and effectiveness of the Parent and Family Engagement Policy and implementation plan. This evaluation process will seek input from a broad representation of families and focus on the following key questions:

• Does this policy effectively increase parent participation?

• What barriers to participation still exist, and how can they be reduced or removed?

Findings from this evaluation will be used to:

• Design strategies for improving school-family partnerships

• Inform any necessary revisions to the Parent and Family Engagement Policy

Commitment to Equity and Inclusion

In planning activities and creating materials for families, special attention will be given to ensuring inclusion and access for:

• Economically disadvantaged families

• Individuals with disabilities

• Families with limited English proficiency

• Parents with low literacy levels

• Families from all racial, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds

SCHOOL POLICY 

Each school shall submit its Title I School Parent Involvement Policy to the Superintendent and the Board of Education for review and feedback. This policy must meet all federal and state legal requirements and be developed in collaboration with parents of participating students.

The finalized policy shall be distributed to all parents of students enrolled in Title I programs.

A copy of each school’s parent involvement policy, along with the completed compliance checklist, shall be kept on file at the District Central Office for documentation and reference.

REFERENCES:

• Section 1118 of the Improving America’s Schools Act (IASA) of 1994

• KRS 158.645

• KRS 158.6451